Saint's Roost by Terry Burns is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Saint's Roost
Sundowners (September 20, 2009)
by
Terry Burns


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Terry has over 30 books in print, including work in a dozen short story collections and four non-fiction books plus numerous articles and short stories.

His last book Beyond the Smoke is a 2009 winner of the Will Rogers Medallion for best youth fiction and a nominee for the Spur Award from the Western Writers of America. He has a three book Mysterious Ways series out from David C Cook, and Trails of the Dime Novel from Echelon Press.

A graduate of West Texas State he did post graduate work at Southern Methodist University. Terry plans to continue writing inspirational fiction as well as working as an agent for Hartline Literary Agency. Terry is a native Texan Living in Amarillo, Texas with his lovely wife Saundra.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Terry Burns has written a novel rich in Texan drawl and old western authenticity.

Saint’s Roost opens with a determined couple leaving a wagon train to set off on their own, only to be set upon by savages. Patrick, an eager evangelizing preacher, steps out to share the Good Book with the savages and meets an untimely demise, leaving his wife, Janie, alone on a trail to nowhere with no one to help her survive.

She makes her way across the frontier determined to follow her husband’s calling, but she doesn’t know where to begin, or even how to take care of herself. When her travels bring her into the lives of two cowhands, an ex-prostitute, a young boy and his drunken grandfather, and towns filled with cowboys waiting to be saved, she discovers there’s more than one way to spread God’s word.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Saint's Roost, go HERE

Here is another interview of me...different.

Click here to read the interview.

Blog tour stop here! My review of The Unfinished Gift by Dan Walsh.

About the book:

Patrick Collins is seven years old, and on his Christmas list are only three items. He wants the army to find his father. He wants to leave his grandfather's house. And, for reasons even he doesn't understand, he wants the soldier that's tucked away in his grandfather's attic. Set at Christmastime in 1943, The Unfinished Gift tells in an engaging, simple style the story of a family, and reminds us of the surprising things that affect powerful change in our hearts--like a young boy's prayers, a shoebox full of love letters, and even an old wooden soldier, long forgotten. This nostalgic story of forgiveness will engage readers everywhere.

My review:

Dan Walsh's debut novel was impressively written for a first book. The story reminded me of one I'd read several years ago by Tracie Peterson that took place during WWI. It was titled Silent Star. That story also made me tear up toward the end. I really enjoyed this book and the author's characterization of Patrick and his grandfather even though I'm not a big fan of Christmas stories. The WWII setting, including the role of the social worker and the police in the story, felt genuine to me. While reading my mind was firmly set in the 1940s and stayed there for the entire book. That was very well done. I also liked how the author showed the reality of the times. There were things done in those days that would never be allowed in the modern era. My how times have changed. And the transformation in the hearts of bitter and confused characters rang true to me. All in all, this was a great book to read in front of the fire over the holidays and would make a great Christmas gift for people who enjoy nostalgic stories set during the Christmas season. *note* It looks like their is a sequel coming out for this book and I am definitely going to read it. I was hoping their would be one and was delighted to see a sequel listed.

The Unfinished Gift was published by Revell and released in Sept. 2009. A complimentary copy was given to me to review.

Now I'm giving away Outlaw's Bride by Lori Copeland!

In order to be entered into the drawing for this book simply post a comment about about diversion programs. Do you think they help people? Is a work program and exposure to Christian love enough to turn people with criminal tendencies around? What do you think? If you can't think of anything to say then just read the review I posted below and comment on that. Thanks and best wishes to you all! I will draw a winner's name next Sunday!


About the book:

Falsely convicted of bank robbery, drifter Johnny McAllister is sent to a rehabilitation program in the home of a California judge. When he goes to Judge McMann’s home, his aim is to be a model prisoner, hoping to be released early and return to his life's mission: to kill the man who wiped out his family 15 years before. He’s planned for everything…except his encounter with Ragan, the beautiful and kind housekeeper, and with the generous folks of Barren Flats. But can Johnny let go of his anger and embrace a new life? One that would include Ragan as his bride? This tender story reveals how even the hard law of the land doesn’t stand a chance when God’s mercy and true love come to reside in a heart. Formerly titled The Bride of Johnny McAllister, rewritten for the inspirational market.

My review:

“This is the first book by Lori Copeland that I've read. I really enjoyed it. The romance was delightful and even a bit yummy in some places, though there was one spot where I was like, "Huh? She did not just do that!" But overall I'd recommend it because honestly it held my attention better than most historical westerns do, and it did ring true for the most part. The characters were engaging and very well developed. The spiritual lessons learned made this a worthwhile read, too. I grew very fond of the hero and heroine by book's end. Outlaw's Bride made me chuckle and smile. But most importantly I felt that satisfied "ahhh..." at the end, which for me is essential for a romance to be considered truly romantic.

Outlaw's Bride was published by Harvest House and was released in July 2009.

Do you love internet scavenger hunts with prizes galore?

Questions will be posted daily beginning on Nov. 29,2009 and ending on Dec 18, 2009 - GO to the following site to begin Desert Breeze Scavenger Hunt begins HERE!

Some of the prizes will include:

Free reads from authors like Stephanie Burkhart, J. Morgan,
Barri Bryan, Shawna Williams, and Michelle Sutton
Free books
Fresh baked cookies to 3 lucky winners
Goodie Bags and autographed Postcards
Holiday themed handmade jewelry
$10 GC to Amazon
Cover Art Mugs with coffee and bookmarks
2010 Calendars and hand crocheted snowflakes
Author Pens
Bookmarks, Pens and Magnets
Tins of mixed nuts
Crucifying Angel tee shirts
Cover Art Canvas Bag ­ Woman of Honor
2 book credits to DBP storefront
Irish themed gifts
Book themed gift basket

The grand prize will be a $50 gift certificate to Amazon.

My review of Guardian of the Flame by T. L. Higley

About the book:

Guardian of the Flame is book three in the Seven Wonders series of novels transporting readers back to the Ancient World. Characters struggle to find meaning in a pagan society and are confronted by the one true God and His message of redemption. The year is 48 BC. Sophia, a woman hurt by past loss, guards the famous lighthouse of Alexandria, Egypt, in order to hide herself away from a world she deems cruel and unloving. But there is no escape. Political turmoil swells as Roman general Julius Caesar and his legion storm the city, and Cleopatra, Greek queen of Egypt , fights to retain her country against both Caesar and bloodthirsty rivals within her own household. Sophia is caught in the middle between a loyalty to Cleopatra and her maddening interest in Bellus, the Roman soldier whom Caesar has instructed to overtake the lighthouse.

My review:

I haven't read a story written by this author before and I really enjoyed it. Last week I read Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran, so it was cool to hang out in the ancient world a bit longer. In Guardian of the Flame, Cleopatra is involved with Julius Caesar and is trying to save her country while holding on to power at the same time. Sophia, the main character in this book, is forced to trust a Roman Centurion and the tension between them is delightfully charged with both animosity and attraction. Usually books that I've read where the man and woman hold anger toward each other seems forced at best. However, this set up seemed more realistic to me as did the subtle shift in affection between them. I loved the romantic element in this story. It was delicious. The emotional impact was intense as well, like the situation where someone unexpected from her past is revealed. Telling you who that surprise person is would be a spoiler, so I'm keeping that a secret. The setting was rich with history and I culture. The situations the characters found themselves in seemed impossible to escape. I love stories that keep me holding my breath and longing for the characters to find love and peace. This one was definitely that, plus it had just enough tension to keep me reading while making my heart pound with anticipation. That's always a great combination.

Guardian of the Flame was published by B&H and was released in October 2009.

Slide show of me with some of my author friends.

Author promo video full length

My review of Seeing Things by Patti Hill

About the book:

Birdie Wainwright, 72, isn't concerned about seeing things that others can't. For a woman who still climbs mountains with her dog (Miss Bee Haven) and likes to tango, the impractical visions brought on by macular degeneration are just another gift from God, adding more adventure to life. But when a tumble down the stairs breaks her ankle and leads back to her son's home in Denver where she must convalesce, Birdie's imagination really takes flight. Following a conversation with her grandson about The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, she begins to see and speak with the unkempt literary character himself on a regular basis. As the line between reality and whimsy turns brittle, faith is tested among friends and loved ones, and hope is reborn.

Seeing Things is a story about family, reconciliation, and hearing from God in unexpected ways.


My review:

Seeing Things is an entertaining story. The author's voice is strong and I loved how it sounded very "senior citizen." I adored the main character, Birdie, and enjoyed getting to know her through her inner dialog. This entire story was incredibly creative and unique. I learned a few things about people with AMD as well. What I enjoyed most about this novel were the relationship dynamics and how realistic the author made the tension in Fletcher's family. Also, the whole issue about trying to help Birdie be safe was interesting because it's so common and most families will struggle with this issue regarding aging parents. The only thing that threw me off a bit was how things transitioned at the end. It seemed like more of a leap than a gentle progression toward resolution. It was too sudden. But I enjoyed the romantic tension between the old folks, so that more than made up for it. That theme was very well done. Overall, this was a good story and I'm glad I took the time to read it.

Seeing Things was published by B&H and released in Sept. 2009.

My review of I Can't See God...Because I'm in the Way by Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz.

About the book:

When Christians look for a reason why they’re stuck in their faith, they often miss the obvious obstacle—their own belief behaviors. Steering clear of cliché solutions, authors Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz lead readers to uncover how, when, and where they get in their own way of experiencing a transforming, heart–igniting faith. This honest soul search invites readers to

*consider God’s big plan and how they can join what He is doing in the world
*commit to follow God’s wisdom rather than disregard it
*relinquish their control so they can embrace God’s leading and His purpose for them

This is a thoughtful, inspiring call to spiritual self–examination so that readers can replace belief boredom with a hunger for God’s truth and a desire to renew their minds and spirits.

My review:

I Can't See God...Because I'm in the Way isn't for people who want to hide from the truth, or for people who wish to exist in the spiritual status quo. This book is for people who want to search inside their hearts and do something about their languishing spiritual condition. I loved this book, but it took me a long time to read because I mulled things over before I went on to the next chapter...and this takes awhile to do. The bottom line is that this book is powerful, deeply insightful, and it's written in a way that is easy to understand. The authors use personal examples to illustrate their points. For me, this book was like a rich food. It's not a book to be zipped through, but it's meant to be savored, pondered, and applied to one's life.

I Can't See God...Because I'm in the Way was published by Harvest House and released in July 2009.

My revised author promo video with new cover...

Now I'm giving away Guardian of the Flame by T. L. Higley

To enter your name in the contest to win this book, simply post a comment about your favorite subject to read about from the Ancient world. Best wishes! I'll draw a winner next Sunday!

About the book:

The year is 48 BC. Sophia, a woman hurt by past loss, guards the famous lighthouse of Alexandria, Egypt, in order to hide herself away from a world she deems cruel and unloving. But there is no escape. Political turmoil swells as Roman general Julius Caesar and his legion storm the city, and Cleopatra, Greek queen of Egypt , fights to retain her country against both Caesar and bloodthirsty rivals within her own household. Sophia is caught in the middle between a loyalty to Cleopatra and her maddening interest in Bellus, the Roman soldier whom Caesar has instructed to overtake the lighthouse.

My thoughts:

I just finished reading Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran this past week. I'm in the mood for more Roman Historical fiction so I'm reading Guardian of the Flame this week and will post a review when I'm done...

The Loss of Carrier by Russ White is up on CFBA this week!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Loss Of Carrier
BookSurge Publishing (October 27, 2009)
by
Russ White


ABOUT THE BOOK

Bright yellow cables against a blue shirt? Carl never would have approved of that color combination. Why was his face so white? His eyes should be closed, not open. Why hadn’t one of the security guards seen this and reported it to the police? The lights were off, the cameras were useless in the dark.

Of course, the cables wrapped around Carl’s neck explained why the server wasn’t working. Loss of carrier.

Jess Wirth lives a dreary life. He spends most of his time crammed inside a cubicle, toiling as a network engineer and stewing over the details of his ugly divorce. But when he finds his co-worker dead in the basement of their office, Jess’s life takes a surprising—and unpleasant—turn.

The police quickly declare the death a suicide, but Jess isn’t so sure. Not long after he begins digging into the victim’s work, another co-worker turns up dead, convincing him once and for all that something sinister is brewing behind the cubicle walls.

His investigation leads him to a mysterious woman name Leah, who pushes him to entrust her with the information he’s collected about his dead colleagues. Wary of Leah’s motives yet inexorably drawn to her, Jess keeps her at arm’s length...until an attempt is made on both their lives. Realizing they are close on the trail of a dangerous criminal, the pair race to expose a data theft ring before they become the killer’s next victims.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Loss Of Carrier, go HERE

Revised video trailer for First Impressions with cover...

Here it is. My revised trailer with my book cover. Hope you get a chance to check it out when it releases in January 2010 via Desert Breeze Publishers...

Here is the cover for my January release from Desert Breeze!

I love this cover! Description of the book is below...



AVAILABLE JANUARY 2010

Sammie Carpenter understands how a uniform influences behavior. Wearing her Army fatigues puts her in the mindset of a soldier and donning her Class-A Uniform always helps her shift into Captain Mode. So what harm could come from her dressing like a saloon girl and strutting through the streets of Tombstone? She didn't know how to flirt to save her life, and she wasn't getting any younger.

When she met the lonesome stud cowboy, Jimmy, she knew he was the one. So why was their communication always so awkward? Couldn't he see that she was interested in him? No matter how hard she tried to win him over, she couldn't seem to get him to see past his first impression of her. But Sammie didn't give up easily. Somehow she would make him see that they were meant to be together, but how can she do that when all of her plans keep falling apart?

Here is another interview of me on the internet.

http://suspensebyannetest.blogspot.com/2009/11/author-michelle-sutton.html

***

My review of Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran

Synopsis of the book:

The marriage of Marc Antony and Cleopatra is one of the greatest love stories of all time, a tale of unbridled passion with earth-shaking political consequences. Feared and hunted by the powers in Rome, the lovers choose to die by their own hands as the triumphant armies of Antony’s revengeful rival, Octavian, sweep into Egypt. Their three orphaned children are taken in chains to Rome; only two– the ten-year-old twins Selene and Alexander–survive the journey. Delivered to the household of Octavian’s sister, the siblings cling to each other and to the hope that they will return one day to their rightful place on the throne of Egypt. As they come of age, they are buffeted by the personal ambitions of Octavian’s family and court, by the ever-present threat of slave rebellion, and by the longings and desires deep within their own hearts.

The fateful tale of Selene and Alexander is brought brilliantly to life in Cleopatra’s Daughter. Recounted in Selene’s youthful and engaging voice, it introduces a compelling cast of historical characters: Octavia, the emperor Octavian’s kind and compassionate sister, abandoned by Marc Antony for Cleopatra; Livia, Octavian's bitter and jealous wife; Marcellus, Octavian’s handsome, flirtatious nephew and heir apparent; Tiberius, Livia’s sardonic son and Marcellus’s great rival for power; and Juba, Octavian’s watchful aide, whose honored position at court has far-reaching effects on the lives of the young Egyptian royals.

Selene’s narrative is animated by the concerns of a young girl in any time and place–the possibility of finding love, the pull offriendship and family, and the pursuit of her unique interests and talents. While coping with the loss of both her family and her ancestral kingdom, Selene must find a path around the dangers of a foreign land. Her accounts of life in Rome are filled with historical details that vividly capture both the glories and horrors of the times. She dines with the empire’s most illustrious poets and politicians, witnesses the creation of the Pantheon, and navigates the colorful, crowded marketplaces of the city where Roman-style justice is meted out with merciless authority.

Based on meticulous research, Cleopatra’s Daughter is a fascinating portrait of imperial Rome and of the people and events of this glorious and most tumultuous period in human history. Emerging from the shadows of the past, Selene, a young woman of irresistible charm and preternatural intelligence, will capture your heart.


My review:

Cleopatra's Daughter pulled me into another world during the time period right before Christ was born and held me there until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The story reminds me a lot of Francine Rivers' "The Mark of the Lion" series, however, the focus and characters in Cleopatra's Daughter and the theme of the novel was totally different. The culture of the times was very different and yet also similar to the perversion in our society today. This was very realistically portrayed without being disgusting. I loved how the setting was so rich with detail that you truly do escape back in time while flipping the pages.

I didn't want to stop reading and was up until midnight for the past four nights reading this wonderful portrayal of characters rarely mentioned in historical fiction (at least that I've heard of). If I had realized at first that the story was mostly told from a pre-adolescent's POV, I may not have been interested in the book, however, it captivated me to the end. There were no slow spots, no places where content dragged, and many fantastic twists and turns greeted me along the way. I also felt like I learned a little more about the time before Christ entered the scene and more about the ruler, Tiberius Caesar, who reigned during the time of Christ. And it was also edgy enough to hold me until the end. Bravo!

Cleopatra's Daughter was published by Crown and released in September 2009.

Cornhusker Academy: "It's Not About Him" Book Review and Giveaway!

If you want to win this book there are still a few days left until a winner is selected...

Cornhusker Academy: "It's Not About Him" Book Review and Giveaway!

Promotional video for myself as an author. What do you think?

And the So In Love song being sung is supposed to represent my romantic fiction titles, not being so in love with me. Ha ha!

Eternity Falls by Kirk Outerbridge is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Eternity Falls
Marcher Lord Press (October 1, 2009)
by
Kirk Outerbridge


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kirk Outerbridge developed a passion for storytelling at an early age. Through years of reading Fantasy and Science Fiction novels, comics, table top gaming and watching endless hours Japanese anime, he developed a keen sense for what made stories enjoyable and more importantly—what didn’t.

While pursuing an engineering degree in college, Kirk endeavored to tell his own stories, choosing writing as the easiest and cheapest medium to master—or so he thought. Several years and several hundred thousand words later, he produced a Sci-fi trilogy that shall never (God willing) see the light of day, but that did teach him much needed lessons about the craft of writing fiction.

After college Kirk returned to his homeland of Bermuda where he reunited with his childhood friend and future wife, Ria. But before marrying his lovely wife, Kirk entered an even greater marriage and devoted his life to Christ in 2002.

With a new found direction in life, writing fell by the wayside but the urge to tell futuristic stories never left. After much prayer and contemplation, Kirk purposed his writing for God’s Will, seeking to draw to Christ those who shared his passions for all things futuristic and Sci-fi.

Kirk currently lives with his wife Ria and 18 month old son Miles in beautiful Bermuda. He is a faithful member of the Church of Christ and is a professional engineer employed by the government.



ABOUT THE BOOK

In the future, death is only a problem if you can’t afford the price. Such is the promise of Gentec Corporation’s “Miracle Treatment”, a genetic anti-aging elixir that grants eternal life—or does it?

When a Gentec client suddenly dies of natural causes, the powers that be will stop at nothing to ensure their version of eternity remains unchallenged; even if it means concocting a religious sabotage conspiracy to cover a lie.

With the media about to blow the story wide open, the credibility of Gentec and the lives of millions of clients rest on one man’s ability to uncover the truth.
Enter detective Rick Macey, religious counterterrorist expert and Gentec executive Sheila Dunn’s last hope for salvation.

Now with the clock ticking and the corporate brass seeking their own solution at any cost, Macey must track down a religious zealot out to destroy the Miracle Treatment for good.

But when Macey finds himself not only falling for his client, but confronted with the possibility that the culprit could hold a connection to his shaded past, the truth suddenly becomes a dangerous thing.

Only through a test of faith can he stop the crisis before it’s all too late and eternity falls.

If you would like to read an excerpt from Chapter 1 of Eternity Falls, go HERE

What the Bayou Saw by Patti Lacy is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
What The Bayou Saw
Kregel Publications (March 24, 2009)
by
Patti Lacy


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Though Patti's only been writing since 2005, she thinks her latest profession of capturing stories on paper (or computer files) will stick awhile.

The Still, Small Voice encouraged Patti to write after a brave Irish friend shared memories of betrayal and her decision to forgive. In 2008, An Irishwoman’s Tale was published by Kregel Publications. Patti’s second novel, What the Bayou Saw, draws on the memories of two young girls who refused to let segregation, a chain link fence, and a brutal rape come between them.

The secrets women keep and why they keep them continue to enliven Patti's gray matter. A third book, My Name is Sheba, has been completed. Patti's WIP, Recapturing Lily, documents a tug-of-war between a Harvard-educated doctor and an American pastor and his wife for a precious child and explores adoption issues, China's "One Child" policy, and both Christian and secular views of sacrifice.

Patti also facilitates writing seminars in schools, libraries, and at conferences and has been called to present her testimony, "All the Broken Pieces," at women's retreats. She also leads a Beth Moore Bible study at her beloved Grace Church.

Patti and her husband Alan, an Illinois State faculty member, live in Normal with their handsome son Thomas, who attends Heartland Community College. On sunny evenings, you can catch the three strolling the streets of Normal with their dog Laura, whom they've dubbed a "Worchestershire Terrier" for her "little dab of this breed, a little dab of that breed.



ABOUT THE BOOK


Segregation and a chain link fence separated twelve-year-old Sally Flowers from her best friend, Ella Ward. Yet a brutal assault bound them together. Forever. Thirty-eight years later, Sally, a middle-aged Midwestern instructor, dredges up childhood secrets long buried beneath the waters of a Louisiana bayou in order to help her student, who has also been raped. Fragments of spirituals, gospel songs, and images of a Katrina-ravaged New Orleans are woven into the story.


The past can't stay buried forever Rising author Patti Lacy's second novel exposes the life of Sally, set amid the shadows of prejudice in Louisiana.

Since leaving her home in the South, Sally Stevens has held the secrets of her past at bay, smothering them in a sunny disposition and sugar-coated lies. No one, not even her husband, has heard the truth about her childhood.

But when one of her students is violently raped, Sally's memories quickly bubble to the surface unbidden, like a dead body in a bayou. As Sally's story comes to light, the lies she's told begin to catch up with her. And as her web of deceit unravels, she resolves to face the truth at last, whatever the consequences.

If you would like to read the first chapter of What The Bayou Saw, go HERE

Watch the Book Trailer:

New video trailer for sequel to Danger at the Door...

Here is the video trailer (rough draft) I made for In Plain Sight. It's the sequel to Danger

Now I'm giving away Double Cross by James David Jordan

To enter your name in the drawing to win a copy of this book simply post a comment about someone you know who is looking for love, but doesn't even know what real love is, so they set themselves up to be hurt. If that's too hard to answer, then just post a comment about why you enjoy suspense novels.

I'll go first. The person who was looking for love was me as a teen, but I didn't know what real love was until I gave my life to Jesus when I was eighteen. But by that point I'd had my share of bad experiences. Anyway, hubby loved this book. It sounds like my kind of story so I'm sure I'll read it one of these days...

About the book:

Raised by a father who was a former Special Forces officer, Taylor is beautiful and brilliant and knows how to take care of herself. But she is haunted by her past and the sacrifice her father made to save her from a brutal rape when she was seventeen. After a controversial stint in the Secret Service, she has become the most prominent private security specialist in America. When she discovers the body of a former client's top assistant, all the evidence points to embezzlement and suicide. But Taylor has no way of knowing that her mother, who ran out when Taylor was nine, is about to reappear and lead her down a twisting path of danger and deceit. It's a road that won't end until they reach the spot where Taylor's father died-where Taylor learns some sacrifices can never be earned.

My husband reviewed this book (below):

When Double Cross begins, Taylor is living in the house with Simon Mason’s daughter, Kacey, and they are good friends. First, she discovers a body of a former client. Then Taylor’s mother shows back up in her life after being missing for about twenty years. Taylor wants to be loved, but she doesn’t know what real love is, so she is looking in all the wrong places and hooking up with people who use her just like she uses them.

The story has so much danger and intrigue combined with dizzying twists and turns that the reader is on edge waiting for disaster to happen. The author does such a fantastic job pulling you into the characters’ lives that you are blown away by some of the things that take place. He does an excellent job making you care about them, which is what makes the story so inspiring. This reviewer didn’t want the story to end but was satisfied with how things turned out. It’s impossible to not long for more installments in the series.

Demo book video for my October 2010 release.

Here is a video of First Love, which is the second book in my Tombstone series. What do you think? All it needs is a cover and a bit of tweaking and I'm done!

My almost finished video trailer for First Impressions...

All that is lacking is the book cover, which I haven't seen yet. This e-book releases January 1, 2010 through Desert Breeze Publishing. It's only $5.99 and it's a unique story with a lot of romance and tension for people who enjoy reading sizzling inspirationals by moi.

Check out this book....

Check out this cool mystery/crime e-book by Anne Patrick. It's only $3.99. Smoking deal, eh?

Here is a bit about the story...

Detective Morgan Reynolds thought her nightmare was over when serial killer Charles ‘The Slasher’ Tate was sent to prison for her husbands murder. But she was wrong. The Slasher has escaped and he’s making it even more personal this time. Tate has kidnapped her son and is giving her 72 hours to find the answers he wants or Jared dies.

You can buy the e-book HERE!

Someone posted my interview on this site.

Here is a link to the post. Check it out and by all means vote/comment. You don't have to log in to rate the interview. Thanks!

Michelle Sutton author interview

Getting into Libraries by Penny C. Sansevieri (reprinted article with permission)

Featured Article - Getting into Libraries
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Despite all the book buzz online, it's still nice to get your book onto a library shelf. For most of us, this seems like an exclusive right devoted to an exclusive group of best-selling authors. While some piece of this is true, the reality is that if you have a good book, you can get into the library system. Here's how.

First, why would you care about hitting the library market? Because in a slow book sales season, as we've seen in the past few months, libraries are a great way to get to your reader.

What they buy: Each library gets a budget and they can spend it any way they want. Unlike Barnes and Noble, where their book purchases are often dictated by publishers or a sales order from their corporate office, libraries operate independently of each other. Libraries will generally buy hardback and trade books and tend to shy away from mass market paperbacks, but if you're in the latter category, don't let this deter you. There's still a lot of wiggle room when it comes to library orders and a few creative ways to get into their system.

Getting to know your local library: if you want to get into your local library it's important to get to know them, so dust off your library card, stop by and introduce yourself. Get to know who you're selling to.

Library websites: if your local library has a website, see if there's a place to make book recommendations. If you have local fans, encourage them to do the same on their library websites.

Library events: if you've been trying to get into your local bookstore to do an event but haven't gotten much traction, why not consider doing a library event (or two)? It's a great way to get "into" your local library, become acquainted with them, meet your local readers, and well, you know - get more exposure for your book. Many libraries also have reading groups that you might be able to participate in.

Reviews: most libraries look to review sources for their selections as well. Consider submitting your book to the following publications for review: Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, Kirkus Reviews, and Forecast. These publications are largely ready by libraries and often librarians will buy based on a good review in one of these publications. You don't need to get reviews in all of them (though wouldn't that be great?) - getting a review in one of them should be more than sufficient to catch the eye of a ready-to-buy librarian.

Popularity: librarians like to stock what's popular, even locally. So if you're doing a lot of local events, talks, or speaking gigs, make sure and let your local libraries know. Also, if you're going to do TV or radio be sure and alert your library, thus giving them sufficient time to order the book.

Libraries might not seem as "glamorous" as the store window of Barnes and Noble, but libraries have considerably more staying power. Once your book is in their system it's in there for as long as your book is in print and the library sees there are readers for it. Also, consider the reorders as your local library will (hopefully) bring in more than one copy. Libraries are a not-to-be-overlooked part of your marketing campaign, and if you missed the review window, don't fret. You might still be able to gain some interest via events and local popularity!

Reprint permission ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~
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A Prisoner of Versailles by Golden Keyes Parsons is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Prisoner of Versailles
Thomas Nelson (September 1, 2009)
by
Golden Keyes Parsons


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

In her deep plowing of the heart, moving from tears one moment to laughter the next, Golden will touch your heart with her dynamic Bible teaching, combined with her vivid personal examples, moving from tears one moment, to laughter the next, all the while communicating the message that God is faithful--keep trusting Him. She has a passion to communicate the Word of God in such a manner that will lead to godly living.

Golden, and her husband, Blaine, have just retired as pastors at Faith Mountain Fellowship Church in Red River, NM. They have three grown daughters and eight grandchildren. Her testimony and myriad of life experiences lend a touch of authenticity to her teaching. She loves to speak for women's conferences, seminars, luncheons, retreats and Mother/Daughter events.

If deep Bible teaching that brings the Scriptures alive is what you want, Golden is the speaker you need.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Madeleine's faith puts her at odds with an intimidating rival: King Louis XIV.

Having fled their homeland of France because of the persecution by Louis XIV, the Clavell family seeks refuge in Switzerland. However, the king is not about to let the recently widowed Madeleine, his childhood sweetheart, escape that easily. He sends musketeers to kidnap her and her oldest son, Philippe, holding them captive in his opulent palace. King Louis is suspicious that Philippe could be his son, and he's enraged by the growing affection of one of his courtiers for Madeleine.

Will Madeleine escape the king with her life or lose everything that she's fought so hard to keep?

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Prisoner of Versailles , go HERE

My thoughts:

I read the first book in the series and enjoyed it. This one I started awhile back but have not read very far into the story yet.

I revamped my Danger at the Door video so it's better now.

What do you think about this one?

Danger at the Door by Michelle Sutton - A Night Owl Romance Review

Danger at the Door by Michelle Sutton - A Night Owl Romance Review

This is a first. I got 4.25 stars. But the reviewer loved it. That's what counts. I always get nervous when a professional review site critiques my work. But this review was encouraging. :)

My review of A Lady Like Sarah by Margaret Brownley

About the book:

Sarah Prescott has never known a respectable life; just a hardscrabble childhood and brothers who taught her to shoot straight.

Justin Wells left Boston in disgrace, heading out alone on the dusty trail to Texas. But when the once-respected clergyman encounters a feisty redhead in handcuffs with a dying US Marshall at her side, their journey takes a dramatic turn.

His high society expectations and Sarah's outlaw habits clash from the start. With a price on her head and a sweet orphan in tow, Justin and Sarah make the difficult journey toward Rocky Creek. There justice will be meted out hopefully with a portion of grace.

My review:

This story was awesome! It remind me of Leather and Lace by Diann Mills in that the heroine was an outlaw. However, the similarities ended there. The plot was entirely different. I loved how the hero in the story was a preacher. What a fantastic way to set up a way to show the reader true Christianity.

The inspirational storytelling by Ms. Brownley was superbly written. I was blown away by how powerfully the subtle spiritual messages were brought out in the novel. The entire story rang true to me as nothing seemed forced or inserted to prove a point or to make the book "Christian". It naturally showed through the plot and characters how real Christian faith is supposed to work. I also loved how the little stories in the Bible came out and how the heroine's faith grew through the many trials she faced.

There were many, many touching moments in the story. And when it comes to suspense, I don't think I've felt this scared for a fictional character since reading The Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers back in the 90s. My heart went out to the hero and heroine because of their plight and their desire to be together, which seemed impossible barring a miracle.

Wonderfully written, amazingly romantic, and spiritually sound, this book is making my top fiction list for 2009. It's fresh and exciting and I read the story in two days. This novel releases at the end of December. Make sure to get a copy and start the next year with a great book! I can't recommend it highly enough.

A Lady Like Sarah is published by Thomas Nelson and releases in Dec. 2009.

Exciting news! Come meet Amanda Cabot & Tosca Lee!

~December 5th, 2009~
Everything that you don’t want to miss!

From 10 - 12, Historical author Amanda Cabot will be signing books at the Barnes and Noble at Tempe Marketplace (2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe AZ)

That’s Not All!

After Amanda’s Booksigning, she’ll head to the Christian Writer’s of the West meeting (Marie Callendar’s 865 S. Dobson in Mesa) and talk about Great Beginnings or How to Hook an Editor – Have you heard that an editor can make a decision based on the first three pages? It’s true. By the end of the workshop, you’ll understand the common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Can You Believe It? There’s More!

Author Tosca Lee will also be joining us.

Tosca will share with the group her talk on Powerful Characterization. You may not love them, but readers must be able to identify with them. How do you do that—especially for the unlikable ones? The author of Demon: A Memoir, Havah: The Story of Eve, and the upcoming Iscariot shares her secret.


CWOW’s Saturday Schedule
10:00 - 12:00 Signing at B&N
12:00 - 1:30 lunch, business meeting, and Christmas party
1:30 - 2:45 Speaker Amanda Cabot
3:00- 4:45 Speaker Tosca Lee

Fit to be Tied by Robin Lee Hatcher is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Fit to Be Tied
Zondervan (November 1, 2009)
by
Robin Lee Hatcher


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robin Lee Hatcher discovered her vocation as a novelist after many years of reading everything she could put her hands on, including the backs of cereal boxes and ketchup bottles. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction (Whispers from Yesterday), the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance (Patterns of Love and The Shepherd's Voice), two RT Career Achievement Awards (Americana Romance and Inspirational Fiction), and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over 50 novels, including Catching Katie, named one of the Best Books of 2004 by the Library Journal.

Robin enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, reading books that make her cry, and watching romantic movies. She is passionate about the theater, and several nights every summer, she can be found at the outdoor amphitheater of the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, enjoying Shakespeare under the stars. She makes her home outside of Boise, sharing it with Poppet the high-maintenance Papillon



ABOUT THE BOOK

Cleo Arlington dresses like a cowboy, is fearless and fun-loving, and can ride, rope, and wrangle a horse as well as any man. In 1916, however, those talents aren’t what most young women aspire to. But Cleo isn’t most women. Twenty-nine years old and single, Cleo loves life on her father’s Idaho ranch. Still, she hopes someday to marry and have children.

Enter Sherwood Statham, an English aristocrat whose father has sentenced him to a year of work in America to “straighten him out.” Sherwood, who expected a desk job at a posh spa, isn’t happy to be stuck on an Idaho ranch. And he has no idea how to handle Cleo, who’s been challenged with transforming this uptight playboy into a down-home cowboy, because he has never encountered a woman succeeding in a “man’s world.”

Just about everything either of them says or does leaves the other, well, fit to be tied. Cleo Arlington knows everything about horses but nothing about men. And though Cleo believes God’s plan for her includes a husband, it couldn’t possibly be Sherwood Statham. Could it?

Their bumpy trot into romance is frustrating, exhilarating, and ultimately heartwarming.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Fit to Be Tied , go HERE.

Watch the book video Trailer:



My review:

Fit to be Tied was an enjoyable historical romance. The writing was stellar and the story itself shone like a well-polished gem. You can tell the author is experienced in the development of romantic relationships on the page. The characters were very well done and the way they viewed things was believeable to me. I loved how mismatched they were at first and the natural fears that went along with having to give up part of yourself for someone else.

The romantic tension was delightful, and the incredibly heroic response and growth of the hero who started out like a privileged jerk was something to see. The softening of a tough and very independent woman like Cleo was beautiful as well.

I really adored this love story and how the author resolved things with an ending that rang true. For romance lovers who enjoy a story with a western theme and a bit of arisocratic flavor from the early 1900s, this book is sure to please. It's not your run-of-the-mill prairie romance...that's for sure. It's unique in many ways, including the absense of the prairie theme. I loved that.

My review of I'm So Sure by Jenny B. Jones

About the book:

First, her family is chosen for a reality TV show, then she's forced to get a part-time job at a feminine hygiene plant. Bella tries topress STOP before she totally loses her cool.

Bella Kirkwood is finally situated in her new hometown, but she's not ready for the whirlwind of randomness that takes place next. When her stepdad enters a new wrestling reality show, Bella is pulled along for the ride as her life goes on display for all the world to see. When the cameras roll, Bella must solve a prom-queen mystery, deal with her returning ex-boyfriend, and keep her cool as she works alongside the hot but irritating newspaper editor Luke Sullivan.

Who needs TV when you're living the charmed life?

My review:

Lighthearted and fun, yet also clinging to a serious side, I'm So Sure is the perfect sequel to an awesome first book in the Charmed Life series. I read this book within days of it arriving in my mailbox. There were so many laugh-out-loud moments I lost count. In fact, I read several scenes to my husband and he laughed, too. Jones has a truly wack-o sense of humor, but it's also inspiring. I don't think I could ever come up with so many great one-liners. Jones has such a funny, snarky voice.

Another thing I love about this series... Jenny B. Jones knows how to take her characters to the very edge of disaster, then elbows them until they topple off that precarious ledge. Bella has so much trouble stirring in her life that it's downright funny because the girl never gets a break. Just when you think her life can't get any more humiliating, it gets worse for her. Donald Maas would be proud. In fact, he could study Jones's books and probably learn something from them. Seriously.

Despite all of the humorous situations, Bella also knows true heartache. Her character grows both spiritually and emotionally in this sequel. A number of times I truly felt her rejection. However, Bella tends to deal with everything tongue in cheek. So when Bella is ruffled enough to nearly cry, it brings about the waterworks in this reader. Well done! Now I can't wait for the third book in the series to release in May!

I'm So Sure was published by Thomas Nelson and released in November 2009.

Now I am giving away Seeing Things by Patti Hill!

To enter your name into the drawing for this book simply post a comment about a time when you heard from God in an unexpected way. If you can't think of anything then tell me a funny grandma story. Or you can do both. Have fun! I'll pick a winner next Sunday.


About the book:

Birdie Wainwright, 72, isn't concerned about seeing things that others can't. For a woman who still climbs mountains with her dog (Miss Bee Haven) and likes to tango, the impractical visions brought on by macular degeneration are just another gift from God, adding more adventure to life. But when a tumble down the stairs breaks her ankle and leads back to her son's home in Denver where she must convalesce, Birdie's imagination really takes flight. Following a conversation with her grandson about The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, she begins to see and speak with the unkempt literary character himself on a regular basis. As the line between reality and whimsy turns brittle, faith is tested among friends and loved ones, and hope is reborn.

Seeing Things is a story about family, reconciliation, and hearing from God in unexpected ways.

My thoughts:

I read the prologue and the first three chapters of this book. I like it. It's snappy and the main character has the total internal dialog of a granny perfected. It's a cute story so I should finish this one. :)

Countdown to 2010....

So far I've read 73 books since January 1st. I will finish another book tomorrow, which will bring the total to 74 books. If I continue to read the 8 books per month that is my goal, then I should have read another 14 by December 31st. The bummer is that means I'll have read only 88 books this past year. Last year I read 97. I began reading at least 30-40 books this year that I have not finished. That really ate away at my reading time. So did being Editor-in-Chief of CFOM. Now that I'm only reading and writing my own books, this should mean I'll have a better reading year lined up for 2010. We'll see. Just wanted you all to know how hard I do try to get those books reviewed for my readers. Thanks for stopping by my blog to read my opinion about fiction. Without my readers this blog would be a waste of time. Peace!

One Fine Season by Michael Sheehan is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
One Fine Season
AuthorHouse (November 25, 2008)
by
Michael Sheehan


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Michael Sheehan is CEO and founder of BioResource, a company that distributes natural remedies including the popular INFLAMYAR ointment for sports injuries. He wrote One Fine Season to honor the memories of two childhood friends who died young, before they could realize their dreams.

One Fine Season is true to life. It draws on Sheehan’s religious education at a Catholic seminary and his experience as a high school baseball and collegiate soccer player. A graduate of Santa Clara University, Sheehan also earned a master’s degree in science journalism from Boston University. He lives in Northern California.


ABOUT THE BOOK

ONE FINE SEASON tells the story of a promising young athlete who must rise from the ashes of devastating personal loss to fulfill a pact made years earlier with his best friend.

Best friends Pete O’Brien and Danny Grace are gifted college athletes, both hoping for careers as professional baseball players. When tragedy strikes, Danny struggles to cope with his overwhelming grief and fulfill a pact the young men made years earlier: to play in the World Series.

Events unexpectedly thrust Danny into the spotlight with the new expansion team in Sacramento. Three guides – an aging catcher, spiritual centerfielder and wise manager – plus a beautiful woman lead him on a healing journey, revealing that even death cannot break the bonds of true friendship.

If you would like to read an excerpt from the first chapter of One Fine Season, go HERE

My thoughts:

Didn't have a chance to crack this book open. Sorry!

Blog tour stop for Lost Mission by Athol Dickson

Seattle, WA - Critically acclaimed author, Athol Dickson's writing has been favorably compared to the work of Octavia Butler (Publisher's Weekly), Daphne du Maurier (Cindy Crosby, Christianity Today fiction critic) and Flannery O'Connor (The New York Times).Although a work of fiction, Athol's LOST MISSION, touches on some of the hot-button issues being discussed in the media today! LOST MISSION explores the personal costs of our immigration policies, asking difficult questions about our ethical and moral obligations as Americans and as Christians. 2) It forces readers to consider the logical end result of the spiritual decisions being made by most Americans today, which are slowly driving American into a post-Christian era. 3) LOST MISSION digs deep into current debate within the American church between the emergent movement and the traditional evangelical community, exposing strengths and weaknesses in both ways of "doing" Christianity.

About LOST MISSION:

What haunting legacy awaits deep beneath the barrios and wealthy enclaves of Southern California?An idyllic Spanish mission collapses in the eighteenth century atop the supernatural evidence of a shocking crime. Twelve generations later the ground is opened up, the forgotten ruins are disturbed, and rich and poor alike confront the onslaught of resurging hell on earth. Caught up in the catastrophe are...· A humble shopkeeper compelled to leave her tiny village deep in Mexico to preach in America· A minister wracked with guilt for loving the wrong woman· An unimaginably wealthy man, blinded to the consequences of his grand plans· A devoted father and husband driven to a horrible discovery that changes everythingWill the evil that destroyed the Misión de Santa Dolores rise to overwhelm them? Or will they beat back the terrible desires that led to the mission's good Franciscan founder's standing in the midst of flames ignited by his enemies and friends alike more than two centuries ago?From the high Sierra Madre mountains to the harsh Sonoran desert, from the privileged world of millionaire moguls to the impoverished immigrants who serve them, Athol Dickson once again weaves a gripping story of suspense that spans centuries and cultures to explore the abiding possibility of miracles.

About Athol Dickson:
Athol Dickson is an award-winning author of several novels. His Christy Award-winning novel River Rising was name one of the "Top Ten Christian Novel of 2006" by Booklist magazine. He lives in California with his wife. Dickson's They Shall See God was a Christy Award finalist. River Rising was selected as one of the Booklist Top Ten Christian Novels of 2006 and was a Christianity Today's Best Novel of 2006 finalist. Both River Rising and The Cure won Christy Awards for best suspense novel.His latest novel, Winter Haven was a finalist for the 2009 Christy Award in the suspense category, making four novels in a row to receivethat honor.And now Athol is back with a gripping tale with an epic sense of the passage of time and the way events and choices impact people across generations.Visit his website for more information.

What people are saying...

Athol Dickson is a breath of fresh air in a market that is often saturated by manufactured plots, spurious characters, and inauthentic spiritual conversions. Lost Mission is redemptive storytelling at its highest level and once again Dickson proves that he is a true master of the craft.

-Jake Chism, Fiction AddictThe story is filled with compassion and truly reaches to the heart of human kind and it's frailities and reminds us that we are not alone and that God will direct us if we choose to follow his ways and not our own selfish desires. And when we sin we can ask for and recieve His forgivness. This is such a beautiful story that you simply MUST read.-Kim C., Book Reviews Today

Product Details:List Price: $14.99Paperback: 368 pages

Publisher: Howard Books, Simon & Schuster (September 15, 2009)

ISBN-10: 1416583475 ISBN-13: 978-1416583479

My review of Lost Mission:

I wish there was a way to give this story 4.5 stars but since I have to choose I'd say it's closer to four than five. The reason for this has more to do with a few minor things, like how the story dragged in the beginning. But that's because it was written in a "telling" style of storytelling at the outset. To give you an idea of what I mean, think about the movie Ella Enchanted and how it starts out...Once upon a time there was a little girl named Ella...etc. Anyway, it starts out with the Mexican Spanish settlements and the Catholic padres in Califormia in the 1700s and each chapter morphs into the present day almost seemlessly and sometimes even in the same paragraph.

However, the transition is not always subtle, like when it says...but two hundred years from that day such and thus happened, then it breaks back into the story. It's the oddest style, but it's different and I have to say that was hooked on this story once I started to see what the author was trying to do. Some people might not give the story a chance, but I'd say if you find the beginning a bit dry, give it a chance. It all goes together nicely when you see the pattern. I also didn't agree with some of the theology, but in spite of that I found some of the spiritual lessons and insights to be profound and compelling.

I love it when a story makes me think, especially when there is tragedy upon tragedy that could've been prevented. You can see the ship sinking, but there are many unforseen waves that rise up and hit you, the reader, along the way. Mr. Dickson knows how to torture his characters so that you feel their pain. This makes the story a page turner for me. I didn't know what to expect and I love that when I'm reading a book. I also love stories that show us just how deceitful and wicked our own hearts can be and why we need a savior every day and not just when we find faith convenient or something to be used for our benefit. Well done, Athol. I enjoyed this story because it made me think about my life. Highly recommended.

My review of So Not Happening by Jenny B. Jones

About the book:

New York's social darling just woke up in a nightmare: Oklahoma. Problem is, it's right where God wants her.

Bella Kirkwood had it all: A-list friends at her prestigious private school, Broadway in her backyard, and Daddy's MasterCard in her wallet. Then her father, a plastic surgeon to the stars, decided to trade her mother in for a newer model.

When Bella's mom falls in love with a man she met on the Internet--a factory worker with two bratty sons--Bella has to pack up and move in with her new family in Truman, Oklahoma. On a farm no less!

Forced to trade her uber-trendy NYC lifestyle for down-home charm, Bella feels like a pair of Rock & Republic jeans in a sea of Wranglers.

At least some of the people in her new high school are pretty cool. Especially the hunky football player who invites her to lunch. And maybe even the annoying--but kinda hot--editor of the school newspaper.

But before long, Bella smells something rotten in the town of Truman, and it's not just the cow pasture. With her savvy reporter's instincts, she is determined to find the story behind all the secrets.

How can a girl go on when her charmed life is gone and God appears to be giving her the total smackdown?

My review:

Jenny B. Jones is the queen of all things funny. So Not Happening has it all. Romance, intrigue, humor, mystery, yummy kisses, hilarious and memorable moments, etc. The author's unusual way of phrasing things is always original and the character's internal dialog is often downright hysterical (like one character's thoughts about the mixture of pills they are forced to take.) I've learned to read Jenny's books in the privacy of my own home to avoid potential embarrassment in public.

Yet, the author has her serious moments, too. While dealt with in a light-hearted manner, the issues her characters encounter are not easy. On a stress scale from one to ten Bella ranks about a twenty in this story. When things get bad the author turn it up another notch and increases the pressure. She had me squirming with the suspense element, too. The plot was very strong and the tension kept building.

The subtle attraction between Bella and several other characters made me smile, too. I loved the way the author drew her characters together in a romantic sense. That undercover stuff was especially delicious in one particular scene. It's hard not to impart a spoiler here because I want to tell you what I loved so much about that scene, but I'll refrain. There were so many great things that happened in this book. I just don't want to share them and ruin your fun. I am desperately wanting to read the next installment.

Bottom line...I'm hooked on this series and I've only just started it. Not only is this book making my best fiction of 2009 list, it's also presently my favorite Jenny B. Jones story. I didn't think anything could top her other YA series with the psycho grandma, but she did it with this book.

I highly recommend anything this author writes because there is always a solid message underlying the story that inspires me. The author knows human behavior and her characterization is flawless. She's the best author in the CBA when it comes to developing likeable, unique, quirky characters who are memorable, and yet very real at the same time.

So Not Happening was published by Thomas Nelson and released in May 2009.

A Slow Burn by Mary DeMuth is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Slow Burn
Zondervan (October 1, 2009)
by
Mary DeMuth


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary E. DeMuth is an expert in Pioneer Parenting. She enables Christian parents to navigate our changing culture when their families left no good faith examples to follow.

Her parenting books include Authentic Parenting in a Postmodern Culture (Harvest House, 2007), Building the Christian Family You Never Had (WaterBrook, 2006), and Ordinary Mom, Extraordinary God (Harvest House, 2005).

Mary also inspires people to face their trials through her real-to-life novels, Watching The Tree Limbs
(nominated for a Christy Award) and Wishing On Dandelions (NavPress, 2006).

Mary has spoken at Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, the ACFW Conference, the Colorado Christian Writers Conference, and at various churches and church planting ministries. She's also taught in Germany, Austria, Monaco, Italy, France, and the United States. Mary and her husband, Patrick, reside in Texas with their three children. They recently returned from breaking new spiritual ground in Southern France, and planting a church.



ABOUT THE BOOK


She touched Daisy’s shoulder. So cold. So hard. So unlike Daisy.

Yet so much like herself it made Emory shudder.

Burying her grief, Emory Chance is determined to find her daughter Daisy’s murderer—a man she saw in a flicker of a vision. But when the investigation hits every dead end, her despair escalates. As questions surrounding Daisy’s death continue to mount, Emory’s safety is shattered by the pursuit of a stranger, and she can’t shake the sickening fear that her own choices contributed to Daisy’s disappearance. Will she ever experience the peace her heart longs for?

The second book in the Defiance, Texas Trilogy, this suspenseful novel is about courageous love, the burden of regret, and bonds that never break. It is about the beauty and the pain of telling the truth. Most of all, it is about the power of forgiveness and what remains when shame no longer holds us captive.


Watch the video:



If you would like to read the first chapter of A Slow Burn, go HERE

My thoughts:

Since this is the second book in a series I plan to finish Daisy Chain--the first book in the series--before I read this one.

Here is another link to an interview...

http://interviewsbycindy.blogspot.com/2009/11/interview-with-michelle-sutton.html

Now I'm giving away Sweet Waters by Julie Carobini!

To enter to win a copy of this book simply post a comment about whether or not you've ever moved back to your childhood home after moving away. If you want to tell us why you did that, go ahead and share. I'll go first. I did move back home after college graduation for a short time (about 9 months) and I did it because I couldn't afford both a car and rent. When I got a few roommates lined up I moved out. Then I ended up marrying my current husband. Anyone else? I'll pick a winner next Sunday.



About the book:

After her fiance dumps her, her sister relocates to Manhattan, and her mother remarries, Tara decides to move from Missouri to her childhood home of Otter Bay, California. But as she settles in and finds a new flame in firefighter Josh Adams, she discovers shocking family secrets that could turn her fairy-tale life into a soap opera.

My thoughts:

I read the first chapter and the writing is very easy to read. The tone of the story is honest and just dramatic enough to pique my curiosity. I hope to finish this book later and post a review when I'm done. Maybe even this week.

New releases by ACFW authors for November 2009!

1. A SILENT PURSUIT, by Lynette Eason from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Gina Santino has something someone desperately wants. Now, she's on the hunt to find it. Her deceased fiance's best friend, US Ranger, Ian Masterson is her only hope of staying alive while they race to be the first to discover the treasure her fiance left behind.


2. Chasing Shadows, by Terri Reed from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. An heiress turns to her former love, a cop, for help when she fears for her grandmother's life.


3. Close to Home, by Carolyn Aarsen from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. A reunion of old lovers brings up the shadows of past tragedy.


4. Fit To Be Tied, The Sisters of Bethlehem Springs, Book #2, by Robin Lee Hatcher from Zondervan. Who says a woman can't do a man's job?


5. I'm So Sure, A Charmed Life, Book 2, by Jenny B. Jones from Thomas Nelson. Its prom time and someone is trying to sabotage the queen contest. Can Bella solve the mystery in time AND keep it together as her life goes public on a wrestling reality show?


6. The Bartered Bride, by Erica Vetsch from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Tempests rage, in the board room, the ball room, and on treacherous Lake Superior as two hearts set sail on a collision course.


7. Together for the Holidays, Fostered by Love series-book 5, by Margaret Daley from Love Inspired. Can the true meaning of Christmas bring two loners together?