Dragonlight by Donita K. Paul is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
DragonLight
(WaterBrook Press - June 17, 2008)
by
Donita K. Paul


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Donita K. Paul retired early from teaching school, but soon got bored! The result: a determination to start a new career. Now she is an award-winning novelist writing Christian Romance and Fantasy. She says, “I feel blessed to be doing what I like best.”

She mentors all ages, teaching teenagers and weekly adult writing workshops.

“God must have imprinted 'teacher' on me clear down to the bone. I taught in public school, then home schooled my children, and worked in private schools. Now my writing week isn’t very productive unless I include some time with kids.”

Her two grown children make her proud, and her two grandsons make her laugh.

Donita is an award-winning author of the Dragon Keeper Chronicle series including DragonFire and DragonKnight.

When not writing, she is often engaged in mentoring writers of all ages. Donita lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado where she is learning to paint–walls and furniture! Visit her website at www.dragonkeeper.us.



ABOUT THE BOOK
The fantastic land of Amara is recovering from years of war inflicted on its citizens by outside forces–as well as from the spiritual apathy corroding the Amarans’ hearts. With Kale and her father serving as dragon keepers for Paladin, the dragon populace has exploded. It’s a peaceful, exciting time of rebuilding. And yet, an insidious, unseen evil lurks just beneath the surface of the idyllic countryside.

Truth has never been more important, nor so difficult to discern.

As Kale and her father are busy hatching, bonding, and releasing the younger generation of dragons as helpers throughout the kingdom, the light wizard has little time to develop her skills. Her husband, Sir Bardon–despite physical limitations resulting from his bout with the stakes disease–has become a leader, serving on the governing board under Paladin. When Kale and Bardon set aside their daily responsibilities to join meech dragons Regidor and Gilda on a quest to find a hidden meech colony, they encounter sinister forces. Their world is under attack by a secret enemy… can they overcome the ominous peril they can’t even see?

Prepare to experience breathtaking adventure and mind-blowing fantasy as never before in this dazzling, beautifully-crafted conclusion to Donita K. Paul’s popular DragonKeeper Chronicles fantasy series.

If you would like to read the first chapter of DragonLight, go HERE

"DragonLight is a delight, but I wouldn't expect anything less from the marvelous Donita K. Paul. I heartily recommend her books to all ages who love inspirational fantasy and wonderful creatures. Ms Paul not only supplies imagination and talent, she provides heart and soul. Another winner!"
~KATHRYN MACKEL, author of Boost

"Donita K. Paul is amazing! DragonLight has the allegorical depth to satisfy the most discerning adult seeking spiritual depth, yet it is fun enough to fascinate a child. This book will enthrall, uplift, and if allowed, change lives--as we are gently drawn to realize that each of us is flawed and must have patience with other flawed believers."
~HANNAH ALEXANDER, author of Double Blind

My thoughts:

When this book arrived in the mail my teenage son immediately snagged it (he's read every book in the series) and he forbids me to read it until I read the others. My boy takes his fiction seriously and insists I am missing out in life if I don't read them all. I told him I will try to at some point but for now...still wouldn't reliquish the book. At least he's a huge fan. I have never known anyone to read Donita's series and not love it. I did read one of her books. The one with the Quiss. Yikes, those creatures freaked me out!

The Falcon and the Sparrow by M. L. Tyndall is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Falcon And The Sparrow
(Barbour Publishing, Inc - August 1, 2008)
by
M. L. Tyndall


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
M. L. (MARYLU) TYNDALL grew up on the beaches of South Florida loving the sea and the warm tropics. But despite the beauty around her, she always felt an ache in her soul--a longing for something more.

After college, she married and moved to California where she had two children and settled into a job at a local computer company. Although she had done everything the world expected, she was still miserable. She hated her job and her marriage was falling apart.

Still searching for purpose, adventure and true love, she spent her late twenties and early thirties doing all the things the world told her would make her happy, and after years, her children suffered, her second marriage suffered, and she was still miserable.

One day, she picked up her old Bible, dusted it off, and began to read. Somewhere in the middle, God opened her hardened heart to see that He was real, that He still loved her, and that He had a purpose for her life, if she's only give her heart to Him completely.

Her current releases in the Legacy of The Kings Pirates series include:The Restitution, The Reliance, and The Redemption



ABOUT THE BOOK
When Mademoiselle Dominique Dawson sets foot on the soil of her beloved homeland, England, she feels neither the happiness nor the excitement she expected upon her
return to the place of her birth. Alone for the first time in her life, without family, without friends, without protection, she now faces a far more frightening prospect, for she has come to the country she loves as an enemy-a spy for Napoleon.

Forced to betray England or never see her only brother alive again, Dominique has accepted a position as governess to the son of Admiral Chase Randal, a harsh man, still bitter over the loss of his wife. Will Dominique find the strength she needs through God to follow through with the plan to rescue her brother? Will Chase find comfort for his bitter heart in God's arms and be able to love again?

And what new deceptions will they both find in France when they arrive to carry out their plan?

If you would like to read an excerpt, go HERE

My thoughts:

I was hoping to finish this book before the tour but I have managed to read through chapter 6 despite my busy life. One of the things that I enjoy about Tyndall's stories is the tension between the her characters. I love how she nudges the reader into their world and gets them to feel the same discomfort. I love romantic tension in stories. This one already "delivers' and I've only read six chapters. I will post a review on this book for sure.

Win an autographed copy of It's Not About Me by Michelle Sutton!

My YA novel, It's Not About Me, won't be in stores until Sept. 1, 2008. So, if you want an advance copy of the actual book, post a comment and tell me why you want to win it. The people with the most interesting answers will have their names entered into the hat (You MUST leave a way for me to contact you if you win.) If your post is boring like, "This book sounds great! Enter me!" it won't make the cut. So think about your post before you enter. Flatter me, but don't suck up. Seriously, what have you heard about it and what interests you about the storyline? That's what I'm looking for. This contest will run for an entire week.

For those of you who need a bit of extra help deciding what you want to say... scroll down to the bottom of this page and play the video trailer about the book. It might inspire you to be more creative.



Book Description

Two brothers...one choice.

When a young woman's life is shattered by a brutal attack, she is torn between two brothers, both of whom claim to love her. She is attracted to both, but which one does she love? How can she choose when her decision may cause a permanent rift between them? And more important, will she give her heart to the One who will sustain her even when human love fails?

Here is another description:

Annie has it all. She's attractive, graduated with honors, was accepted at the college of her choice, has supportive parents, good friends, and a steady boyfriend who loves her. One night when an unexpected visitor appears, Annie's safe world is destroyed. As she tries to recover the pieces of her broken life, a war ensues between two brothers who both claim to have her best interests at heart. But who will Annie choose? Or will she decide to turn her life in a different direction?

This is pretty crazy, and hilarious, and about ME

I have an author interview posted on Nora St. Laurent's blog. She even includes wacky pictures. The bio taken from my site is a tad outdated so I'm off to fix it now. Meanwhile, tickle my fancy and read my interview. It's different from all of my other interviews. And when you finish please post a comment to let Nora know that you stopped by to read it. :) Muchas gracias, amigos and amigas!

Click here to read my interview!


:P

My review of Ten Thousand Charms by Allison Pittman

Synopsis of the book:

A woman with no future.

A man with no hope.

A God who knows the key to their deepest need lies in each other…

Wyoming Territories, 1860. Gloria is in trouble. A mining camp is a merciless place when you’re young, pregnant…and a prostitute. No matter. Life will not defeat her.

John William McGregan is in despair. His beloved wife died in childbirth. And while John is a resourceful man, raising an infant daughter on his own seems impossible.

Thrown together by a seemingly cruel fate, Gloria and John William make a pact: She will nurse his daughter; he will raise her son. Neither asks for marriage. They are joined by necessity, nothing more.

But after a move to the new Oregon territory, facing John William’s faith day after day, and receiving an older woman’s motherly mentoring, Gloria longs for something more. For the love she’s been denied all her life. If only that life hadn’t made her unfit, not only for John William…but for God.

Then tragedy strikes—making even the resolute John William question his faith. Terrified, Gloria turns to the One she has never been able to trust. But can even God save what now means more to Gloria than life itself: her newfound family?

My review:

Ten Thousands Charms was such an emotionally gripping story that I had trouble putting it down. But even when I had to work and do other things, I was still thinking about the story. I know so many women like Gloria who have been so hurt that they are emotionally dead inside and when someone offers them hope, they are terrified. I could totally see that struggle in Gloria and it was a beautiful thing to watch how God slowly wooed her to Himself through the love of believers. And while no one in this story was even close to perfect, they were totally believeable and likeable characters. John William was heroic in so many ways even with the flaws he carried with him. And Gloria was such a good mother to the babies. It was impossible not to grow to love her as she cared for the children and learned how to take care of herself and her "family," which was the one thing she never believed she would experience in her lifetime. My eyes filled with tears every time Gloria took a tiny step in faith. There were so many things she learned, and the reader learns along with her as she learns to trust. The author also does a fantastic job writing the male point of view and the intense emotions John and Gloria both felt, both positive and negative. I highly recommend this story because it nurtures both the heart and the spirit, and because I loved, loved, loved it!

Ten Thousand Charms was published by Multnomah and released in 2006.

My review of Letters From the Enemy by Susan May Warren

About the book:

The world is at war. And there is a similar tension in the heart of Lilly Clark. With the war in Europe raging, Lilly lives for letters from her beloved Reggie. But then a stranger enters her life and changes everything. Heinrick Zook has become the focus of controversy in Lillys small South Dakota town. His ancestry stirs up hateful prejudices as American boys are losing their lives fighting the Germans. But even with this between them, Lilly feels compelled to befriend this gentle German. Can their love overcome the prejudice and conflict that has set the world at war? Or will letters from the enemy forever condemn Lilly in the eyes of those she loves?

My review:
Letters From the Enemy is a wonderful love story with deep truths hidden in the story itself. At first I wasn't so hot about her feeling something for the local guy when her fiance was in Europe fighting the Great War, but as I got to know the fiance better I started cheering for her relationship with the same guy I originally didn't want her to be with. My emotions were pulled into this story and the "dark moment" looked so bleak it just about killed me. Their bond was intense and very romantic and the gift he gave her was...priceless! If not for the fact that I paused for over a year before finishing this book, I'd have given it five stars. Terrific story!

Letters From the Enemy was published by Heartsong and released in January 2004.

Now I'm giving away a copy of Too Little, Too Late by Victoria Christopher Murray

To enter to win simply post a comment and make sure to leave me a way to contact you if you win. I'll pick a winner Sunday. Best wishes!



About the Book:

Jasmine Larson Bush returns to her devious ways in this tale of two marriages -- each threatened by lies and betrayal.

She took marriage vows to be honest and true, but Jasmine's still hiding secrets to keep her husband, Minister Hosea Bush, by her side. When Hosea's ex-fiancée, Natasia, suddenly appears in New York, Jasmine knows it's not a coincidence. A former manstealer herself, Jasmine is very aware of Natasia's motives -- even if Hosea is not.

Complicating Jasmine's life is the secret she's kept from her baby's daddy. Luckily for her, Brian Lewis has problems of his own. His wife, Alexis, is convinced he's cheating on her -- but Brian's real betrayal is much worse. Revealing the truth to his wife could lead him back to the biggest mistake of his life...Jasmine.

Two marriages are in desperate jeopardy. Will Jasmine be able to scheme to save her own? Or will she have to choose between protecting her past and compromising her future? Even if Jasmine and Brian find the courage to stop the lies, it may be too little, too late....

My review:

There is an abundance of conflict and action in Too Little, Too Late. And as is typical of Ms. Murray's writing style, nothing is predictable and every chapter is eventful and tense. There are never any sagging middles or boring chapters in one of her novels. I love how the author twists things around and weaves powerful lessons into all of her stories. Lessons about love and faithfulness, trust and forgiveness.

Too Little, Too Late has an ending that will leave you breathless, yet there is also a bittersweet feeling you get by the time you reach the last page. Yes, life is messy, and temptation is everywhere. The issue of addiction is handled extremely well and is accurately portrayed.

In the midst of their struggles these believeable character discover that God is always in their midst no matter how awfully they behave. They realize that His love is unconditional and if they reach out to Him, He will meet them where they are. That is so true-to-life. What a great read. A bit on the sizzly side with some major eyebrow-raising scenes, but I like that kind of romance, and in this regard Ms. Murray never dissapoints.

Too Little, Too Late was published by Simon & Schuster (Touchstone imprint) and was released in June 2008.

Painted Dresses by Patricia Hickman is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Painted Dresses
(WaterBrook Press - July 15, 2008)
by
Patricia Hickman


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Patricia Hickman is an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction, whose work has been praised by critics and readers alike.

Patricia Hickman began writing many years ago after an invitation to join a writer's critique group. It was headed up by best-selling author Dr. Gilbert Morris, a pioneer in Christian fiction who has written many best selling titles. The group eventually came to be called the "Nubbing Chits". All four members of the original "Chits" have gone on to become award-winning and best selling novelists (good fruit, Gil!).

Patty signed her first multi-book contract with Bethany House Publishers. After she wrote several novels "for the market", she assessed her writer's life and decided she would follow the leanings of her heart. She says, "It had to be God leading me into the next work which wound up being my first break-out book, Katrina's Wings. I had never read a southern mainstream novel, yet I knew that one lived in my head, begging to be brought out and developed." She wanted to create deeper stories that broke away from convention and formula. From her own journey in life, she created a world based upon her hometown in the 70's, including Earthly Vows and Whisper Town from the Millwood Hollow Series.

Patty and her husband, Randy, have planted two churches in North Carolina. Her husband pastors Family Christian Center, located in Huntersville. The Hickmans have three children, two on earth and one in heaven. Their daughter, Jessi, was involved in a fatal automobile accident in 2001. Through her writing and speaking, Patty seeks to offer help, hope and encouragement to those who walk the daily road of loss and grief.


ABOUT THE BOOK

In this story of sisterhood and unexpected paths, Gaylen Syler-Boatwright flees her unraveling marriage to take refuge in a mountain cottage owned by her deceased aunt. Burdened with looking after her adult sister, Delia, she is shocked to find a trail of family secrets hidden within her aunt’s odd collection of framed, painted dresses. With Delia, who attracts trouble as a daily occupation, Gaylen embarks on a road trip that throws the unlikely pair together on a journey to painful understanding and delightful revelations.

Steeped in Hickman’s trademark humor, her spare writing voice, and the bittersweet pathos of the South, Painted Dresses powerfully captures a woman’s desperate longing to uncover a hidden, broken life and discover the liberty of living authentically, even when the things exposed are shrouded in shame.

If you would like to read the first chapter, go HERE

My thoughts:

I intended to read this before the tour (or at least start it) but then MY BOOKS CAME in the mail and I have been distracted by the wonder of it all. I should be back on track soon and get to it on my TBR pile, though.

ROFLOL! My friend sent me this. What a GAS!!!

Now I'm giving away a copy of Table for One by Georgiana Daniels

To enter for a chance to win this fun, chick-lit style novel, simply post a comment and I'll put your name in the hat. I'll draw a winner on Wednesday.



About the book:

Successful stockbroker Lucy Brocklehurst hasn’t had a date in four years. In a town where the ratio of single women to men is 7:1, she’s determined to wait on God for the perfect mate—-as long as it’s the hot new youth pastor at her church.

Lucy will do anything to get his attention, including volunteering for the youth group. Through a series of misadventures on the teen outings, Lucy finds herself falling in love with a kindhearted chaperone named Edgar Flowers. But when their relationship grows serious, Lucy discovers the lengths his recently-widowed mother will go to in order to keep them apart. What starts out as harmless interference turns into an all out tug of war, with Edgar as the prize!

Will Lucy crumble under the scrutiny of her would-be mother-in-law? Or can Lucy and Edgar’s budding romance survive the schemes of his meddling mom?

My thoughts:

I just started this book yesterday but I've read through Chapter 6 and I think it's very funny and entertaining. The author does a great job with the setting. When the character is at work you feel like you're with her there. When she's at church, the same thing. And the way the author jokes and comes up with the one liners is hilarious. That pastor is a real cutie, too. But the best part about this book so far is the characterization. It's a fun read, no doubt. Expect a review in the next week or so. If I didn't have to work full time it wouldn't take me as long to finish! :)

Try Darkness by James Scott Bell is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Try Darkness
(Center Street - July 30, 2008)
by
James Scott Bell


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

JAMES SCOTT BELL is a former trial lawyer who now writes full time. He has also been the fiction columnist for Writers Digest magazine and adjunct professor of writing at Pepperdine University.

The national bestselling author of several novels of suspense, he grew up and still lives in Los Angeles. His first Buchanan thriller, TRY DYING, was released to high critical praise, while his book on writing, Plot and Structure is one of the most popular writing books available today.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Ty Buchanan is living on the peaceful grounds of St. Monica’s, far away from the glamorous life he led as a rising trial lawyer for a big L.A. firm. Recovering from the death of his fiancée and a false accusation of murder, Buchanan has found his previous ambitions unrewarding. Now he prefers offering legal services to the poor and the underrepresented from his “office” at local coffee bar The Freudian Sip. With his new friends, the philosophizing Father Bob and basketball-playing Sister Mary Veritas, Buchanan has found a new family of sorts.
One of his first clients is a mysterious woman who arrives with her six-year-old daughter. They are being illegally evicted from a downtown transient hotel, an interest that Ty soon discovers is represented by his old law firm and his former best friend, Al Bradshaw. Buchanan won’t back down. He’s going to fight for the woman’s rights.
But then she ends up dead, and the case moves from the courtroom to the streets. Determined to find the killer and protect the little girl, who has no last name and no other family, Buchanan finds he must depend on skills he never needed in the employ of a civil law firm.
The trail leads Buchanan through the sordid underbelly of the city and to the mansions and yachts of the rich and famous. No one is anxious to talk.
But somebody wants Buchanan to shut up. For good.
Now he must use every legal and physical edge he knows to keep himself and the girl alive.
Once again evoking the neo-noir setting of contemporary Los Angeles, Bell delivers another thriller where darkness falls and the suspense never rests.

If you would like to read chapters 1 & 2, go HERE

“Bell has created in Buchanan an appealing and series-worthy protagonist, and the tale equally balances action and drama, motion and emotion. Readers who pride themselves on figuring out the answers before an author reveals them are in for a surprise, too: Bell is very good at keeping secrets. Fans of thrillers with lawyers as their central characters—Lescroart and Margolin, especially—will welcome this new addition to their must-read lists.”
—Booklist

“Engaging whodunit series kickoff . . . Readers will enjoy Bell's talent for description and character development.”
—Publishers Weekly

“James Scott Bell has written himself into a niche that traditionally has been reserved for the likes of Raymond Chandler.”
—Los Angeles Times

“A master of suspense.”
—Library Journal

“One of the best writers out there, bar none.”
—In the Library Review

My thoughts:

I read about 1/2 of Try Dying and never had a chance to go back and finish it. I want to read the rest of that story before starting this one.

My review of Learning to Fly by Roxanne Henke

About the book:

Nervous new mom Susan feels like she may never get a handle on "the mothering thing"---so she's grateful when a chance meeting reconnects her with JoJo, an acquaintance with a daughter the same age. Over the years, the family friendships deepen, but as graduation nears, will they be ready to let their girls fly?

My review:

This engrossing novel is better than a parenting book! And if you you see a frustrated, self-conscious mom in the store with a kid having a conniption fit, do her a favor and tell her about this book. Seriously. You may just save her some heartache.

Learning to Fly is about parenting and the heart of a mother. But it's even more than that. It's about marriage and friendship and peer pressure. It's about the consequences of not speaking up and of letting your child get what they want all the time. It's about the dysfunction of reliving your childhood through your child and the damage it can do. It's about so many things. And the most exciting part of this book is it's every mother. There is a bit of Susan and Jo Jo in all moms, so everyone can relate.

I love reading about dysfunction when the authors have deep insight into the situation and wisdom that shows up in their characterization. Roxanne Henke nails so many things in the process of telling you this story that will grip your heart in many, many ways. In fact, this is the perfect gift for a parent with little ones. Readers can't help but see just how much it hurts your child to give in to them. It's not a pretty sight and only gets worse as they get older. The takeaway value of this book is that it's worth it to be consistent and to listen to your child and not make excuses for their bad behavior. Plus, the characters are so well done it's hard not to love them and understand them by book's end. I highly recommend this book!

Learning to Fly was published by Harvest House and released in February 2008.

My review of New Birth or Rebirth? Jesus Talks with Krishna by Ravi Zacharias.

About the book:

Ultimate truth. The destiny of souls. The individual heart. Can Krishna and Jesus agree on anything?

This is what Subramaniam, a real-life Hindu of the twentieth century, wonders as he enters a fictitious conversation between two religious figures who have changed the lives of millions. As Jesus and Krishna respond to each other’s view of life and the afterlife, they speak words straight from the texts of Christianity and Hinduism and straight into the soul.

Subramaniam asks Jesus and Krishna hard questions about faith. Meanwhile, a fictional character, Richard, eavesdrops, asking himself the most important question of all:

Does it really matter what I believe?


My review:

Comprehensive and easy to read and understand,New Birth or Rebirth covers many of the similarities and differences between Hinduism and Christianity through fictional dialogue. I'd recommend this book to anyone who wants to better understand Hinduism, or those who have friends who are searching for truth, or believe that all religions point to the same God.

New Birth or Rebirth? Jesus talks with Krishna was published by Multnomah and released in June 2008.

Here are the ACFW BOOK OF THE YEAR finalists!

ACFW's 2008 Book of the Year Finalists

Debut Author
Bayou Justice (Robin Miller writing as Robin Caroll)
In Between (Jenny B Jones)
Sushi for One? (Camy Tang)
My Soul Cries Out (Sherri Lewis)
Petticoat Ranch (Mary Connealy)

Contemporary Novella (*six finalists due to a tie)
A Cloud Mountain Christmas (Robin Lee Hatcher)
Finally Home (Deb Raney in Missouri Memories anthology)
Mississippi Mud (DiAnn Mills in Sugar And Grits Anthology)
Moonlight & Mistletoe (Carrie Turansky in Big Apple Christmas anthology)
Remaking of Moe McKenna (Gloria Clover in the Race to the Altar anthology)
Sweet Dreams Drive (Robin Lee Hatcher)

Historical Novella
Beyond the Memories (DiAnn Mills in Mississippi Memories anthology)
Finishing Touches (Kelly Hake in Missouri Memories anthology)
Love Notes (Mary Davis in Love Letters anthology)
The Spinster & The Cowboy (Lena Nelson Dooley in Spinster Brides of Cactus Corner anthology)
The Spinster & The Tycoon (Vickie McDonough in Spinster Brides of Cactus Corner anthology)

Lits (*six finalists due to a tie)
Around the World in 80 Dates (Christa Banister)
One Little Secret (Bottke, Allison)
Renovating Becky Miller (Sharon Hinck)
Splitting Harriet (Tamara Leigh)
Sushi for One? (Camy Tang)
The Book of Jane (Dayton/Vanderbilt)

Long contemporary
Autumn Blue (Karen Harter)
Like Always (Robert Elmer)
Taming Rafe (Susan May Warren)
When the Nile Runs Red (DiAnn Mills)
Within This Circle (Deb Raney)

Long Historical (*seven finalists due to TWO ties)
Courting Trouble (Deeanne Gist)
Fancy Pants (Cathy Hake)
Lady of Milkweed Manor (Julie Klassen)
Remember Me (Maureen Lang)
Then Came Hope (Louise Gouge)
Veil of Fire (Marlo Schalesky)
Where Willows Grow (Kim Vogel Sawyer)

Mystery
Days And Hours (Susan Meissner)
Death of a Garage Sale Newbie (Sharon Dunn)
Gone With The Groom (Janice Thompson)
Sticks And Stones (Susan Meissner)
Your Chariot Awaits (Lorena McCourtney)

Short Contemporary
Heart of the Family (Margaret Daley)
The Heart of Grace (Linda Goodnight)
The Perfect Blend (Allie Pleiter)
Wedded Bliss (Kathleen Y’Barbo)
When Love Comes Home (Arlene James)

Short Contemporary Suspense (*six finalists due to a tie)
Caught Redhanded (Gayle Roper)
Her Christmas Protector (Terri Reed)
Nowhere to Hide (Debby Giusti)
Pursuit of Justice (Pamela Tracy)
See No Evil (Gayle Roper)
Vanished (Margaret Daley)

Short Historical (*six due to a tie)
A Time to Keep (Kelly Hake)
A Wealth Beyond Riches (Vickie McDonough)
Canteen Dreams (Cara Putman)
Corduroy Road to Love (Lynn Coleman)
Golden Days (Mary Connealy)
To Trust An Outlaw (Rhonda Gibson

Speculative
Demon: A Memoir (Tosca Lee)
DragonFire (Donita Paul)
The Restorer (Sharon Hinck)
The Restorer’s Son (Sharon Hinck)
Isle of Swords (Wayne Thomas Batson)

Suspense
Abomination (Colleen Coble)
Black Ice (Linda Hall)
Coral Moon (Brandilyn Collins)
Crimson Eve (Brandilyn Collins)
Ransomed Dreams (Amy Wallace)

Women’s Fiction
A Promise To Remember (Katie Cushman)
Bygones (Kim Sawyer)
Remember to Forget (Deb Raney)
The Oak Leaves (Maureen Lang)
Watercolored Pearls (Stacy Adams)

Young Adult
In Between (Jenny B. Jones)
On The Loose (Jenny B. Jones)
Sara Jane: Liberty’s Torch (Eleanor Clark
Sarah’s Long Ride (Susan P Davis)
Saving Sailor (Renee Riva)

**** The winners will be announced at the ACFW Banquet September 2008 in Minneapolis.

I'm giving away a copy of Exorsistah by Claudia Mair Burney

To enter to win a copy of this book, simply post a comment below and tell me why you think you'll like the book. Don't forget to leave me a way to contact you if you win. I will draw a winner on Sunday.



About the book:

She just wants a home, a hootie, and some kickin' boots.Does she realy have to fight the devil to get them?

After the creep who's married to her friend Kiki tries to assault her, Emme Vaughn finds herself in an all-night Walgreens at 3 a.m. with a quarter in her pocket and a rumble in her stomach. She sure does wish she'd gotten to eat her french fries before she had to kick and run. But God has his plan, and apparently tonight He means for her to whip some serious demon butt.
Ever since her mom went crazy, Emme's been wary of the gift they share for seeing demons, but she's not about to let one get to her. So when an ugly beast lurks into Walgreens behind a dude who's clearly up to no good, Emme tells it exactly where it can go. Problem is, the beautiful guy beside her at the magazine rack just helped her conquer the nasty duo, and now he wants her to join a group of demon-fighters led by his father, an aging exorcist bombarded by requests to deliver people from evil. Shoot, and all she really hoped for was some breakfast....

My thoughts on this book:strong>div>

I'm on chapter 6 and laughed more times than I can count. A copy of the first chapter is posted on Amazon.com if you want to read it. As is typical of Burney's books, she deals with pain in a humorous fashion, yet really gets you thinking about what the character is dealing with (emotionally) at the same time. I just love the way Burney is so REAL in her novels and how she shoots out fast lines with her wit. So far this is a great read. Just don't bring it to church with you because people won't understand the insane laughter that will spew from your lips. When they ask what made you chortle and you tell them the story is about a girl kicking some demon butt, they will surely think your sanity has gone south. Enjoy!

*** NOTE: This book is not printed by a Christian publishing house. While there is some crass humor on occasion, there is also some Biblical teaching and spiritual content that is spot on.

Promises, Promises by Amber Miller is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing

Promises, Promises
(Heartsong Presents - July, 2008)
by
Amber Miller

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Hi, I'm Amber, but my friends call me Tiff, short for Tiffany, my first name. Writing had always been a hobby, a way for me to express my innermost thoughts and feelings in a way I sometimes find difficult with the spoken word -- although my friends will tell you 'shy' is not in my vocabulary. Thanks to the gentle nudging of a fellow author -- Tracie Peterson -- in 2002, I took the next step in my writing career and joined the American Christian Fiction Writers. I owe all so many there a hearty hug of appreciation for their constant encouragement and unselfish assistance. I feel a lot more confident thanks to their support and love. For those of you who are also fiction writers looking for a wonderful support group, check them out!

I got involved with web design in 1997, when I was asked to take over running the official web site for the television series Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. That eventually led to a series of negotiations where I was offered the job of running world-renowned actress Jane Seymour's official fan site. That has branched into doing web sites for a variety of clients, including: authors J.M. Hochstetler, Trish Perry, Kathy Pride, Louise M. Gouge, Susan Page Davis, and Jill Elizabeth Nelson, actor William Shockley (the voice of AT&T and Sony) and many others. With the help of a handful of other web site "technos," Eagle Designs was born! Feel free to visit and see our other clients.

Books are a definite passion. Why else would I be writing and publishing them? I firmly believe that a good book can take you away from all of your problems, into a world you've never seen. My favorite food is Italian; I sing all the time, and I once worked with my church choir to do a professional recording for a music CD of our performances.

I am in my 30's, married the love of my life in July 2007, and live in beautiful Colorado, but I love to travel and visit new places. Ultimately, my dream is to own horses and live in a one-level rancher nestled in the mountains. For now, I will remain where I am and do what I love—design web sites and write.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Raelene Strattford knows God has promised never to leave or forsake her. But after the catastrophic deaths of her parents, she doesn t believe it. What kind of God would take a girl's family and leave her alone in a wild land where women have no voice? Gustaf Hanssen has admired Raelene from afar for a while, but his poor attempt at courting her in the past has made him unwelcome in her life. When Gustaf promises Raelene's dying father that he will take care of her, he finds himself bound to her happiness, her success, and her well-being in ways he never imagined. To keep his word must Gustaf really oversee all of Raelene's affairs, find her a husband, and maintain her farm, while she does nothing but scorn him? Can God reach through Raelene's pain and self-centeredness and give her the love that awaits, if only she will accept His will?

If you would like to read the first chapter, go HERE

At this time,
Promises, Promises can only be purchased through the
Heartsong Book Club.


My review:

Promises, Promises was a quick read and very enjoyable. I started it last night and finished it this morning. I couldn't stop reading. While the heroine was a tad more stubborn than I prefer, the hero made up for it by being so loveable and heroic by his loyalty and integrity. The heroine's naivite regarding the world was clear in many ways, and that fit the character because she was only seventeen at the beginning of the story. She did have occasional moments of vulnerability, and that's when I liked her the most. I loved how what used to annoy her about Gustaf (his native tongue) became an endearing quality after she lost her mother. And her needing to find the husband was fun, too. Poor Gustaf. True to his character, he set his own desires aside and tried to do the right thing, but he was miserable because his heart wanting something he believed he couldn't have. Sweet story. I'd say overall this was a nice read, and it was romantic enough to suit my tastes. I recommend it.

Review of The Last Time We Were Children by Penny J. Johnson, a book of poems

I couldn't find a description of the book on any of the review sites so I'm just posting my review.

My review:

I prefer novels to poetry, but this book of poems had some poignant prose that made me stop and think about the meaning. Like the Psalms, there is a story within the lines. This book was divided into four parts, like "themes." I particularly enjoyed parts 2-4. My favorite poems were Offering, Matins, and Adjusting the Darkness. If you enjoy poetry that includes family, faith, and memories, you'll enjoy this collection of poems by Penny J. Johnson.

This book of poetry was published by Tate Publishing and released in 2007.

My famous friend from the commercial is now in the news!

Angie, mother of the two hot guys on my book cover, didn't win the Mrs. Montana pagent but she still looks fabulous in this video. Check out this clip about the pagent on the news. She's the pretty lady in the purple dress who approaches the micrphone in the clip. Wowsa, eh? I just love her to pieces and am so proud of her for competing. She's a winnerin my book regardless.

Angie on the news

***

My very first book giveaway for It's Not About Me is hosted on Trish Perry's website.

Trish Perry did an author interview of me about my book on her website. She even asked who I'd have playing the roles if my novel was made into a movie. How fun! Don't you want to see who I picked? Go ahead and check out the interview, then post a comment ASAP for a chance to win my book!

Here is the link www.trishperry.com

And here is a picture of me and Trish at last year's ACFW banquet. Yeah, she's pretty gorgeous, eh? Love that woman!

Sisterchicks Go Brit by Robin Jones Gunn is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing

Sisterchick Go Brit
Multnomah Publishers (May 20, 2008)
by
Robin Jones Gunn


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robin grew up in Orange County, California and has lived in all kinds of interesting places, including Reno and Hawaii.

Robin’s first novel was published in 1988, and she has continued to write between two to five books a year. Her 63 published books include 47 novels, all of which are still in print. Sales of her popular Christy Miller Series, Glenbrooke Series and Sisterchicks Series, including Sisterchicks in Gondolas and the new Katie Weldon Series including Peculiar Treasures all of which are approaching four million copies sold, with translations in nine languages.

Robin’s passion for storytelling and travel are evident in all her books, especially the Sisterchicks novels, and she has received thousands of letters from readers around the world who have come to know Christ through her writing. She sees this as her dream come true. Her novels are traveling to foreign lands and her characters are doing what she always longed to do; telling people about God’s love.

She and her husband currently live near Portland, Oregon and have been married for 30 years. They spent their first 22 years of marriage working together in youth ministry, and enjoying life with their son and daughter who are now both grown.

As a frequent speaker at local and international events, one of Robin’s favorite topics is how God is the Relentless Lover and we are His first love. She delights in telling stories of how God uses fiction to change lives.

Robin is the recipient of the Christy Award, the Mt. Hermon Pacesetter Award, the Sherwood E. Wirt Award and is a Gold Medallion Finalist. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Media Associates International and the Board of Directors for Jerry Jenkins’ Christian Writers’ Guild.



ABOUT THE BOOK
SISTERCHICK® n: a friend who shares the deepest wonders of your heart, loves you like a sister, and provides a reality check when you’re being a brat.

Two midlife mamas hop over to jolly ole England and encounter so much more than the usual tourist stops. Liz does have a bit of a childhood crush on Big Ben, and she has hoped to “meet” him ever since her fifteenth birthday. Kellie dreams of starting an interior design business and figures Liz needs to be a part of that equation–a calculation that hasn’t added up for Liz yet.

Nothing on the excursion goes the way these two friends had envisioned. They start with a village pancake race and end up being held for questioning on The Underground. Kellie and Liz take a wild tour through the land of C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien and then find themselves swept up, up, and away in a hot air balloon over the Cotswalds. London beckons with the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, shopping at Portabella Road in Knotting Hill, and of course, reservations at the Ritz for a posh high tea.

A few detours along the way and the possibility of being lost in a London fog of wonderment aren’t enough to stop these two Sisterchicks! Each step of their regal journey is lined with evidence of God’s gracious compassion, and both come to realize that God knows their every wish. He is the One who planted every dream in their hearts.

And, oh, what a surprise awaits them when they return home!


To read the first chapter, go HERE

“Robin has done it again! You and your Sisterchicks will love taking this new adventure together!”
- Karen Kingsbury, New York Times best-selling author of Between Sundays and Ever After

“My only complaint about Robin’s latest is that now I want to hop a plane to England! But combine a cup of Earl Grey tea and this charming story and you’re halfway there. Another delightful tale about women helping women to live their lives to the fullest.”
- Melody Carlson, author of These Boots Weren’t Made for Walking and A Mile in My Flip-Flops

“Sisterchicks in Gondolas is a true delight. The characters shine, and evocative language will make any reader want to visit Venice. Biblical truths are portrayed simply, yet will touch hearts and lives with their realistic application.”
- Romantic Times magazine

My thoughts:

I've read through chapter 4. Nothing terribly compelling, but a nice read so far.

I'm giving away a copy of Jessie by Lori Wick

To enter to win a copy of this book simply post a comment. Tell me what you like about Lori Wick's books. I'll pick a winner on Wednesday.



About the book:

Jessie Wheeler, whose husband, Seth, abandoned her before their second child was born, is a single mom and the sole proprietor of Token Creek's general store. Jessie lives day to day with her hands full and her heart broken.

When Seth suddenly returns to town claiming he's a man changed by faith, Jessie is reluctant to trust him or God with her family's future. But Seth sets out to prove his commitment and his love. This is a timeless story of the transforming power of God's love and forgiveness.

Cute nephew pics. Watch the mood progression...and the bubble thoughts...

Hmmm...I feel kinda stupid sitting here.

So I can get out of this chair if I kiss the bear. Okay!

Okay, I'm waiting... You promised.

On second thought, take your time. I'm tossing the bear. This chick digs my chair!

Win How to Become a Bible Character by Timothy Fish

To enter the contest merely post a comment about why this book intrigues you. I'll choose a winner on Sunday. Don't forget to leave me a way to contact you if you win!



About the book:

Associate pastor and youth minister Wayne Hiller is ready to make an impression on a new church, but he soon finds that there is a young man in the youth group who is ready to make a mark of his own. Neal Watts is above average when it comes to teenagers. He is the most popular kid in school, he is committed to the Lord and he is full of compassion for other, but he has a desire for the impossible. He has a desire to become a Bible character. At first, Wayne thinks this desire is misguided, but mostly harmless. When Wayne sees the lengths to which Neal will go to accomplish his goal, he questions just how harmless it really is. This is a book about the desire to accomplish the impossible and about what to do when it seems that God is ignoring our prayers. It goes to the very heart of Christianity and covers the topic of friends reaching friends for the Lord. Come explore a place where you can learn How to Become a Bible Character.

Wiser than Serpents by Susan May Warren - tour stop here! With bonus review!

About the book:

Her sister had vanished, trapped in a human slavery ring. To find her, FSB agent Yanna Andrevka arranged her own kidnapping into Taiwan's sex-trafficking trade. And found herself with no way out.

Until Yanna discovered an ally deep undercover: Delta Force captain David Curtiss. He was after the kingpin of the Twin Serpents, the organized crime syndicate that had Yanna—and hundreds of others— in their clutches.

With opposite agendas, David and Yanna had to rely on each other to outwit their cold-blooded enemy.

My review:

Susan May Warren really knows how to write suspenseful tales about unrequited love. Wiser than Serpents contained such passion and spiritual depth that it took my breath away. I loved her Josey series because it's so funny, but I really loved Wiser than Serpents because of the depth of emotion between the main characters in the book. It amazed me how much serious brutality (as in blood and guts) was allowed in this Steeple Hill book. But it was necessary to make the storyline believable. I was impressed, to say the least.

Susan's tale of romance and intrigue not only had me turning the pages, but holding my breath each time Yanna and David were together. The sparks between them were electric. I'm serious. And the deep emotional connection they had was beautiful and sacrificial, especially on David's end. He was willing to lay his life on the line so many times because of his love for Yanna. It was exhilarating. And his internal conflict was so intense because he wanted her so badly, but had to deny himself to the point it rocked him to the core. What a heroic hero! Fabulous story and incredibly romantic. I'd give this story a ten out of ten if I had a rating system. Seriously. The ending left me glowing.

Wiser than Serpents was published by Steeple Hill and released in June 2008.

Here is the blog tour schedule. Make sure to check out these stops.

7/7

Mary at Home Steeped Hope

http://homesteepedhope.com/
Let it suffice that I was riveted to the recliner from page one. Susan’s characters grabbed my interest and my heart, and the plot escalated my heart rate so much that I kept glancing over at the half open front door, thinking maybe I should go over and lock it up tight!

Sunny at Life in the Estrogen Ocean

http://estrogen-ocean.blogspot.com/
I highly recommend Wiser Than Serpents! It's an amazing piece of work just as a stand-alone fiction, but knowing the subject is a harsh reality brings it into a whole new light. This is no casual story about a rescue. It's an on-the-edge-of-your-seat kind of thrill ride.

Stacey at Jamee Forever

http://jameeforever.blogspot.com/
So in my mind, it was providential that I get the opportunity to read and post information about this book.

Amy at The 160 Acre Woods

http://the160acrewoods.wordpress.com/
So about this book– I’m sure for those who have read Susan’s work before know how great it is! This book is a thriller! I loveeeeeeeeeeee thrillers. I love the excitement and the frustration in this book. I love that I can feel for the characters and that it brings some real issues to light/life. I also love the fact that God is ever presence in this book and that the characters have to rely on Him. It pulls him into the here and now. Susan’s writing is easy to read. I think I read this book in about a day and half b/c I couldn’t put it down! I’ll be searching for more of her books as she’s captured me with her amazing details and imagery in her novel.

Melody at Kids, Cakes, Dishes, Laundry…In That Order

http://www.kidscakesdisheslaundry.blogspot.com/

Brittanie at A Book Lover Forever

http://abookloverforever.blogspot.com/
I loved this book . It is the third in a series that I have highly anticipated each and every book. I highly recommend the whole series. It is possible to read the third without feeling too lost but I recommend reading them in order so the details about the other characters that come out make perfect sense. From the beginning I was pulled in and I did not want to quit reading until the end. I loved finding out more about the lives of other past major characters and coming to love and find out more about the main characters in this book. The characters and plot are interesting and unique. Don't miss out on this great suspense with a touch of romance book and series!

7/8

Georgiana at Viva Inspirational Chick Lit

http://georgianad.blogspot.com/
Man, this book has it all: internation intrigue, human trafficking, and of course, romance. What's amazing to me is how well it's woven together with a spiritual thread to make an entertaining story fit for the big screen.

Tasra at Real Women Scrap

http://www.realwomenscrap.typepad.com/
You won't believe it, but I finished an entire book in one day this past weekend. It's billed as a thriller and I'm normally not a thrill seeker, but this book had me riveted.
It's another great book by Susan May Warren. I always know I'll get a good read from her, but wasn't sure what to expect since this new book, Wiser Than Serpents, is a departure from her last series. I was not disappointed. In fact, I think this may be my favorite Susan May Warren book of them all!

Margaret at Cappuccino Life

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/cappuccinosmom/557653/
Susan May Warren takes a difficult and ugly subject and turns it into a fast paced, facts-based thriller. She also manages to take the reader through the realities of human trafficking without finding it necessary to delve into the gory details. We get the idea without having a vivid mental picture drawn for us. Of course, this being Christian chick-lit, there is also some romantic entanglement, difficult decisions guided by Scripture, and the Gospel message woven in.

Melanie at Melanie Writes

http://www.melaniewrites.blogspot.com/
I highly recommend this deliciously satisfying book, the third in the Mission: Russia series. Can’t wait for the next one!

AnnMarie at More Than Just A Mom

http://afriedrick.blogspot.com/
Every once in awhile, I receive a book that grabs my attention, refusing to let go. Sometimes the book will have a remarkable (read: make you THINK about the world around you) message as well. Wiser than Serpents is one of them. Written by Susan May Warren, Wiser is an action packed thriller-romance that will keep you turning pages long after you should have gone to sleep (take my word for it!).

7/9

Leticia at My Daily Trek

http://leticiasworld.blogspot.com/

Jill at Christian Work At Home Moms

http://blog.cwahm.com/

Laura at Lighthouse Academy

http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/

Michelle at Edgy Inspirational Author

http://www.edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com/

Ronie at Supernatural Craving

http://www.supernaturalcraving.blogspot.com/

7/10

Deborah at Books, Movies, Chinese Food

http://books-movies-chinesefood.blogspot.com/

Christy at Christy's Book Blog

http://christysbookblog.blogspot.com/

Kate at A Simple Walk

http://asimplewalk.blogspot.com/

Dineen at Kittens Come From Eggs

http://dineenmiller.blogspot.com/

Joy at Five J's

http://fivejs.wordpress.com/

Beth at The Writing Road

http://thewritingroad.blogspot.com/

7/11

Rel at Relz Reviewz

http://www.relzreviewz.blogspot.com/

Angela at All that Naz

http://allthatnaz.blogspot.com/

Jill Elizabeth at Artistic Blogger

http://www.jillelizabethnelson.com/

Deena at A Peek at My Bookshelf

http://deenasbooks.blogspot.com/

Cara at Cara's Musings

http://carasmusings.blogspot.com/

7/12

Amy at My Friend Amy

http://www.myfriendamysblog.com/

Lynetta at Open Book

http://www.lynetta.blogspot.com/

Betsy at Writer At Large

http://www.betsy-ann.blogspot.com/

Susan at His Reading List

http://hisreadinglist.blogspot.com/

Chris at Come to the Table

http://www.cometothetable.blogspot.com/

Jamie at Surviving the Chaos

http://www.survivingthechaos.blogspot.com/

So there you have a smorgasboard of stops. Hope you enjoy the tour!

Wind River by Tom Morrisey is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing

Wind River
(Bethany House July 1, 2008)
by
Tom Morrisey


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tom Morrisey is a mountaineer, aviator, shipwreck diver, and explorer, who holds a Full Cave certification from the National Speleological Society - Cave Diving Section.

He has launched, edited or contributed to numerous national publications and is an award-winning adventure-travel writer. A popular speaker, he is also active in both evangelism and the arts. Morrisey earned an MFA in creative writing from Bowling Green State University, and his fiction has been featured in numerous anthologies and magazines.

His first novel, Yucatan Deep (Zondervan, 2002) was a finalist for the Christy award, and he is the author of four other novels: In High Places (Bethany House Publishers, 2007), Dark Fathom (Zondervan, 2005), Deep Blue, (Zondervan 2004), and Turn Four (Zondervan 2004). In addition Tom has also written two nonfiction books: 20 American Peaks & Crags (Contemporary Books, 1978) and Wild by Nature (Baker Books, 2001). He and his family live in Orlando, Florida.

ABOUT THE BOOK


You Can't Outrun the Sins of Your Past
Desperate to forget what happened to him in Iraq, Tyler Perkins flees to the emptiness of Wyoming. He's here to escape and also to fulfill a long-ago promise by accompanying his 86-year-old friend Soren Andeman on a fly-fishing trip--once more for old time's sake. But their trek to an idyllic trout lake soon becomes something more deeply harrowing--a journey that uncovers long-held lies, deadly crimes, and the buried secrets of the past. Ty barely has time to contemplate the question of what constitutes justice when nature unleashes her own revenge. Trapped in a race back to safety, he must face his own guilt-ridden past or risk being consumed.

Powerfully imagined by the acclaimed author of In High Places, Wind River is an engaging wilderness adventure that explores the power of confession, the beauty of forgiveness, and the freedom of truth unveiled.

If you would like to read the first chapter, go HERE

My thoughts:

This book sounds great, but I was unable to do a review fast enough for this tour. I will review it later, though.

The Edge of Recall is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Edge Of Recall
(Bethany House July 1, 2008)
by
Kristen Heitzmann


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Of her three main interests, art, music and writing, she chose to study English at the University of Colorado and thrived on Creative Writing and Literature classes. She married her husband Jim, and turned her energy to building a family. They have four children whom they have home schooled for all or most of their education. Kristen is a music minister with the ecumenical covenant community People of Praise.

Once she realized the stories in her head were truly a calling from the Lord, she made writing not just a passion, but a ministry. She has written seven historical fiction novels as part of the The Rocky Mountain Legacy series, the Diamond of the Rockies series, and the Christy Award winner Secrets. Most recently, she has written several contemporary fiction novels, including Echoes, Freefall and Unforgotten.

Kristen and her husband, Jim, and their family live in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she serves as worship leader in their church.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Tessa Young, an up-and-coming landscape architect who specializes in the design and creation of labyrinths, has immersed herself in the mythological, spiritual, and healing aspects of the elaborate structures. She also is searching for God and hoping to make sense of the nightmares that have plagued her since childhood.

When Smith Chandler, an estranged colleague--with whom she'd half fallen in love a dozen times before catching herself every time--calls to propose a project he claims is the opportunity of a lifetime, she reluctantly agrees to check it out. Smith is reconstructing a pre-Revolutionary War abbey for wealthy clients. Among its remarkable features is an overgrown labyrinth.

Unable to resist, Tessa accepts his offer to work with him. Soon she is immersed in the project of a lifetime. But one evening, after weeks of work in the labyrinth, Tessa and Smith are attacked. While protecting Tessa, Smith is stabbed, and the nightmare begins...again.


If You would like to read the first chapter, go HERE


My thoughts:

I'm having a bit of trouble getting into this book. It's not the type of Kristen Heitzmann novel that I'm used to reading. But I may like it, so I'm not giving up just yet.

Win a copy of Beach Dreams by Trish Perry and read my bonus review!

All you have to do to enter to win this great book is read my review and then post a comment telling me why you want it. I will pick a winner Wednesday! Best wishes.



About the book:
Tiffany LeBoeuf recently lost her mother to cancer. Still grieving, Tiffany seeks rest for her body and soul at a cozy beach house in San Diego. A scheduling mix-up causes a double booking, and Tiffany ends up sharing the house with a woman named Eve. When Eve's boyfriend, Jeremy, arrives to surprise Eve, he's surprised to see Tiffany as well. He settles in at the beach house next door, and what happens after that surprises them all.

A fun, contemporary romance about how God uses even our mistakes to bring about His divine purposes. Beach Dreams is the perfect get-away read.

My review:

After having read Too Good to be True and The Guy I'm Not Dating, both written by Trish Perry, I was eagerly anticipating the return of her characters. I was thrilled to discover that Jeremy was back, and this time this hot Brit's the hero! I hadn't read the first two books in the beach house series by Sally John, but frankly that didn't matter because the characters in the story were from Trish's previous series. And let me tell you what I love about her writing. She really knows how to write about relationships.

I loved the setting and the activities that took place. The language used by the English was quite fun, if you fancy that sort of thing, LOL! Anyway, Tiffany, the mean girl from the first two books who was humbled and softened at the end of book two, returns in this story as the heroine. She still fights the urge to tell people off and resists the temptation to return to her old ways on occasion, but that made her more real to me.

There were two different times when I got choked up toward the end of this story. I can't tell you what those things were that emotionally moved me because it would spoil the story, but I'll just say that sometimes what you think people believed about you and what you think they meant is not always true. That's the beauty of learning to communicate from the heart. While this book is a great beach read and loads of fun, it's by no means shallow, and on occasion it contains excellent insight into spiritual matters. And those almost-kisses were pure torture! I'm just sad the story had to end.

Beach Dreams was published by Harvest House and released in July 2008.

Two sites for readers and authors that I recently joined!

Please stop by and check out my author profile. I think you'll like the site. There aren't many Christian authors listed so if you join it'd expand the inspirational presence there. What do ya say?

AllThesebooks.com

And here is an even cooler site!

nothingbinding.com

My girlfriend Angie is famous!

I always knew she was pretty (check out her pic) and talented (check out the video - she's the coupon gal with the long, dark hair and the hot pink blouse) so I have to share with you my bud Angie. I'm just her webmaster and co-writing a non-fiction book with her. She's way cooler than I am (and a few years older than me, not that you can tell!) Her handsome sons were models for my book cover (told you we were buds.) Anyhoo, Angie is competing for Mrs. Montana in July and I'm really hoping she'll win. Here ya go...

First Security Bank - coupon lady

My review of On the Loose by Jenny B. Jones.

About the book:

Life is looking up for teenage Katie Parker. After being placed in a new home, she's finally adjusting to her foster family. But tragedy shakes her fragile world as a tornado rips through the town of In Between and her foster mother is diagnosed with cancer. Faced with the possibility of losing a loved one, Katie begins to doubt if God really does care.

Making matters worse, Katie is accused of stealing at school. But in the middle of her chaotic-and often humorous-life, Katie reconnects to God's amazing grace and love.

This is the second release from the Katie Parker series, books for teen girls that explore a less-than-perfect life and the heroine who perseveres through wit, sass, and faith.


My review:

I thought In Between was the best YA novel I'd ever read (other than my own - LOL), but I was wrong. On the Loose, A Katie Parker Production, Act 2, was even better than In Between! Katie really grows a lot over the course of these first two books in this series, and toward the end of On the Loose, I was wiping tears from my eyes. I love Katie as if she was my own daughter (I have a 16-year-old son) and even though she's a fictional character when her heart broke, so did mine.

When I wasn't laughing my head off reading On the Loose, I was wiping tears from my eyes. I drove my husband up the wall by asking him if I could read him just one more page. This story is read-out-loud funny. Seriously. I couldn't help sharing the humor because it was so zany and tongue-in-cheek, yet insightful and deliciously entertaining. I can't say enough great things about this book or this series. Jenny B. Jones is a favorite author, and this book makes me even more sure of my decision to rank her my #1 favorite YA author of all time. I'm reading every book she writes.

On the Loose was published by NavPress (Th1nk books imprint) and released in September 2007.

Win He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not (a Memoir) by Trish Ryan

To win a copy of this book merely post a comment telling me why you want to read it. I will pick a winner Sunday. Have fun and bet wishes to you.



About the book:

Trish Ryan was the quintessential successful thirtysomething woman -- she had a career as an attorney, a nice car, and a succession of men clamoring for her affection. But despite all her accomplishments, the things by which she defined her life continually left her disappointed, especially when it came to dating. Like the heroines of chick-lit novels and Sex and the City, she couldn't escape her bad luck with men: men who cheated, who left her, who made her a lesser version of herself. After years of trying everything out there to make love work -- new age philosophy, feminist empowerment, myriads of self-help programs -- she finally, hesitantly, decided to give God a try. This is Ryan's story of how her search for the right guy turned into the search for the right God, and (spoiler alert!) how she ended up with the happily-ever-after ending.

My thoughts:

I started reading this story yesterday and I'm on page 103, chapter 11. I just can't stop reading this memoir. It reads like a fiction novel. If you've ever felt depressed about relationships that were going nowhere, you will identify with the author. If you had a lousy marriage that was downright emotionally abusive, you will understand the author's perspective. It's almost depressing, but I sense hope is just around the corner. And I thought I had it bad before I was saved! Reading this book helped put some things into perspective for me. I'll finish this one for sure and post a review soon.

July new releases for ACFW authors!

We've got 11 new Christian novels this month - a great selection for those lazy days of summer!

1. Beach Dreams, The Beach House Series Book 3 by Trish Perry from Harvest House. Tiffany gets away from it all at a California beach house; but a viper-like roommate, a handsome (unavailable) visitor, and uncovered secrets make her life no day at the beach.

2. Calico Canyon, Lassoed in Texas Book #2 by Mary Connealy from Barbour Trade Fiction. A prissy school marm is forced into marriage to the father of her most unruly students.

3. Fudge-Laced Felonies First book in the Summer Meadows series by Cynthia Hickey from Barbour Heartsong/Mysteries. Summer Meadows sets out to find the owner of a stash of diamonds and gain Ethan Banning's love.

4. Maine Brides by Susan Page Davis from Barbour. Can faith bridge the road to love and bring three men who have been cast off by society to new lives alongside women who love them?

5. Masked by Moonlight by Allie Pleiter from Steeple Hill Historicals. Nothing could tempt Matthew Waterhouse to reveal his secret identity, until the English gentleman met Georgia Waterhouse, whose pseudonymous newspaper accounts had made his daring "Black Bandit" exploits famous.

6. Mission: Motherhood, Homecoming Heroes continuity series Book One by Marta Perry from Love Inspired. When Caitlyn Villard becomes the guardian of her twin five-year-old nieces, she's forced to return to Prairie Springs, Texas and the military community she'd run from, finding the man and the life of her dreams where she least expects.

7. Seaside Cinderella by Anna Schmidt from Love Inspired Historical (Steeple Hill). Lucie McNeil's quiet life on Nantucket is a blessing for the tragedy-haunted Irish immigrant, but everything changes when her employers' handsome son steps ashore bringing her haunting past with him.

8. Table for One by Georgiana Daniels from The Wild Rose Press. In a town where the ratio of single Christian women to men is 7:1, blundering stockbroker Lucy Brocklehurst searches for love through a series of misadventures.

9. The Molech Prophecy by Thomas Phillips from Whitaker House. When Tommy finally surrendered his life to Christ, leaving the world of crime behind him, he never expected the pastor of his church to force him back into his old ways.

10. The Prince Charming List Book Three of the "Prichett" Series by Kathryn Springer from Steeple Hill Cafe. Heather Lowell comes to Prichett to manage the Cut and Curl for the summer and discovers that life in a small town holds some BIG surprises!

11. The Power of Love/The Courage to Dream Love Inspired Classic(Two novels in one) by Margaret Daley from Love Inspired Steeple Hill. The Power of Love: Can Police Chief Gabriel Stone help Rebecca Michaels with her troubled son and special needs baby enough to guide her back to the Lord and find hope for the future? The Courage to Dream: Returning to her Southern roots is a bitter journey for Rachel Peters, but old flame Michael Hunter is determined to reunite her with the faith and love she left behind.