This was fun...I don't read Austen but I did see this movie!

Take the Quiz here!

Let the games begin! Win my e-book here!

Win a copy of my ebook that releases Friday. Plus, read my first official review of this book! There are only a few sites doing this, and here is one of them.

http://lynnrush.wordpress.com/2009/12/30/michellesutton/

My review of In the Arms of Immortals by Ginger Garrett

The Black Death sweeps through a Sicilian village in Book Two of Ginger Garrett’s unforgettable Chronicles of the Scribe series

It starts when a strange ship docks in the village harbor. That night an old man falls ill…then the baker’s wife…then a street urchin. By morning half the townspeople are dead and more are dying—horribly. And no one in town has a clue how to stop it. Not the local priest. Not the rich baron or his powerful knight. And not the three women at the heart of this book: the baron’s proud daughter, Panthea, the outcast healer Gio, and Mariskka, an unwilling visitor from another time. This fast-moving, richly imagined tale is a sure winner for lovers of historical fiction.

My review:

While I found some aspects of this story interesting, it was also quite confusing. The writing was good, but I often felt a bit disoriented while jumping from each person's point of view. While I got that it was medieval Sicily, sometimes it felt like the characters were not connected to reality. I'm not sure how to explain it. They had a lot of internal thoughts that were deep, but it was hard to get to know each character. They all seemed confused. They said things that seemed to contradict who I thought they were based on previous scenes. Like I said, a bit confusing.

But there was a lot of edgy content like innuendos regarding perversion and such, though nothing actually happened. Also, the descriptions of the plague were quite nasty, so if you have a weak stomach you might find that a bit much. There was a lot of tragedy and death as well. At the same time there was a good spiritual message, but it did seem like some loose ends weren't wrapped up, which might leave some people frustrated. I did like one part of the ending (regarding a few survivors) and thought that was a beautiful way to resolve their prior heartache.

I don't really like the scribe concept, though, and I didn't like it in the previous book either (In the Shadow of Lions). I think it would've been better if the author had stuck with the actual historical setting for the story and stayed there.

I enjoyed Dark Hour and In the Shadow of Lions. This story...not so much. But it was never boring. I guarantee that, which is the reason I finished it. I kept wanting to figure out what the point was. People who like stories set in reading medieval settings or time travel novels might enjoy this despite it being a bit disjointed. I plan to read the next book in this series when it comes out. Hopefully it will make more sense to me than this story did.

In the Arms of Immortals was published by David C. Cook and released in Sept. 2009.

Phoenix Rattler writing contest finalists here!

Congratulations to all the entrants in the first annual Phoenix Rattler, Does Your Story Have Bite? contest. Below are the finalists (Listed in Alphabetical order) who have advanced to the final round. Winners will be announced in February 2010.

Contemporary Fiction:

1. Romance on a Distant River, by Lee Carver
2. Season of Surrender, by Mary Proctor
3. Surviving Carmilita, by Susan Miura

Historical Fiction:

1. Beyond a River, by Michelle Shocklee
2. Nightshade, by Debra Marvin
3. Samurai’s Heart, by Walt Mussell

Suspense/Thriller/Mystery:

1. Another Sun, by Katie Vorreiter
2. Dead Weight, by Lynda Schab
3. No turning Back, by Katie Vorreiter

Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Allegory:

1. Counting Tessa, by Tina Pinson
2. Metamorphisis, by Chawna Schroeder
3. The Lightstone of Perlan, by Dona Watson

Young Adult:

1. Caleuche Redemption, by Colleen Shine Phillips
2. Tale of a Man, by Deborah Anderson
3. The Wishing Sea, by Durga Walker

Women’s Fiction:

1. The Blue Lake Journals, by Cathleen Armstrong
2. Three Wishes, by Lynda Schab
3. Through the Valley, by Sarah Forgrave

Now I'm giving away Where Grace Abides by B. J. Hoff!

To enter your name for a chance to win a copy of this book simply post a comment telling me if you love Amish fiction and why you love it. Do you have a favorite Amish Fiction author? If so, who? If you have never read Amish fiction tell me why you want to start now. Best wishes! I'll pick a winner next Sunday.



About the book:

In Where Grace Abides, the compelling second book in the series, Hoff offers her readers an even closer look at the Amish community of Riverhaven and the people who live and love and work there. Secrets, treachery, and persecution are only a few of the challenges that test Rachel’s faith and her love for the forbidden “outsider,” while Gant’s own hopes and dreams are dealt a life–changing blow, rendering the vow he made to Rachel seemingly impossible to honor.

Many of the other characters first introduced in Rachel’s Secret now find their gentle, unassuming lives of faith jeopardized by a malicious outside influence. At the same time, those striving to help runaway slaves escape to freedom through the Underground Railroad face deception and the danger of discovery.

All the elements readers have come to expect from author BJ Hoff (romance, drama, great characters) join together in Where Grace Abides to fill the pages with a tender, endearing love story and a bold, inspiring journey of faith.

My thoughts:

I was going to read this but then realized I hadn't read the first book yet (which I have) so I decided to wait on a review. I hate to read books out of order. I know that BJ Hoff is an amazing author as I've read at least four of her books, maybe more. This is sure to be excellent, too.

It's Not About Me was one of the top 4 teen books listed on this teen blog!

The Children and Teen Book Connection top books for 2009

New pics of my nephew's son, siblings and wife.

My beautiful niece, Tatiana, and baby Mattix, her nephew.

Aaron holding his baby, Tati, and Peter, his siblings.

Aaron and his adorable wife, Liz, the proud new momma of Maddix.

The star of the show, baby Maddix. Ain't he sweet?

Did you get a Kindle for Christmas?

Then I hope you'll watch to get my August release to read....




Danger at the Door e-book, buy it here for only 5.99

Then after January 1, 2010 you can buy my next book! I'll post a link to Amazon as soon as I have one after it goes on sale. It will also be only $5.99.

My review of Secrets and Lies by Rhonda McKnight - adding this to my best of 2009 list!

About the book:

Faith Morgan is struggling with her faith. Years of poor communication and neglect leave her doubting that God will ever fix her marriage. When a coworker accuses her husband, Jonah, of the unthinkable, Faith begins to wonder if she really knows him at all, and if it's truly in God's will for them to stay married.

Pediatric cardiologist Jonah Morgan is obsessed with one thing: his work. A childhood incident cemented his desire to heal children at any cost, even his family, but now he finds himself at a crossroads in his life. Will he continue to allow the past to haunt him, or find healing and peace in a God he shut out long ago?

In her debut novel, Secrets and Lies, Rhonda McKnight delivers unforgettable characters and page-turning drama about a couple whose troubled marriage is pushed to its limits amidst secrets, lies, and an enemy set on revenge.

My review:

Secrets and Lies was compulsively readable. I kept wanting to see what would happen next. I loved how the author showed how bitterness can keep you from truly giving your heart to others and enjoying close relationships with them. I also loved how she showed that deep-set hurts going back to childhood can influence adults' lives in the present day until the past is dealt with and forgiveness occurs. That was very well done. And while not very edgy, I found the story very genuine and real. It's obvious the author understands relationships and human frailty.

I really loved the true-to-life conflicts and those husband and wife scenes when they were enjoying good times together. Those scenes made me smile. I couldn't relate to Faith all that much because I'm not one to harbor anger against someone and bitch at them when they are already feeling low, but I have been in her shoes where I've been confused and not sure what to do about situations. I also know a lot of people like her who handle things the way she did.

I think I identified most with Jonah because I saw how he chose to ignore so many things that would bring him pain if he dealt with them. A lot of men are just like Jonah. They avoid issues rather than dealing with them head on. And like the Biblical Jonah, this poor guy had to be sucked into a nasty fish's belly full of life's troubles to realize just how bad he'd let things get. The relief he felt when he was finally spit up on the beach and given another chance to heal and make things right was truly moving. Same with the whole underlying story regarding Amadi.

Secrets and Lies made me cry real tears, which is why this story is making my best of 2009 list. I could not set the book aside and I had to finish it. Plus, the story moved my heart. Those are the two main qualities that make it an excellent novel to me. I highly recommend it.

Secrets and Lies was published by Urban Christian and released in December 2010.

My review of Christmas Homecoming by Debby Mayne, Elizabeth Goddard, Elizabeth Ludwig and Paige Winship Dooly

Christmas Homecoming: A Holiday Wedding Reunites Old Loves

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I haven't read a four author novella collection in about two years. This one was good. It tied together nicely and I read all four novellas. I think I enjoyed the first story the best (Silver Bells by Debby Mayne) because it made me tear up. I am not a fan of Christmas stories in general, but this book was a winner and it can be read in January or any time of years that it's snowing outside, not just at Christmas. I think that's why I enjoyed it so much. I didn't find it sappy but actually well-plotted and interesting. All four stories were very romantic and very different. The conflict was also very different in each story. While not edgy, if you like romance then this collection of stories will definitely tug at your heart strings. :)

View all my reviews >>

I'm doing a Double giveaway for Christmas week!

To win a copy of both Bamboo and Lace by Lori Wick AND Under the Cajun Moon by Mindy Starns Clark, please post a comment telling me about the authors and if you've read any of their books. If you have read some of their books, do you have a favorite book by that author? If you haven't read a book by either author tell me why you'd like to win these (besides that they would be a nice Christmas gift for yourself.) Have a great time and Merry Christmas everyone! I'll pick a winner next Sunday.

I'll go first. I love both of these authors. My favorite books by Wick are Pretense and The Princess. My favorite book by Clark is Shadows of Lancaster County.




About the book:

Can their love survive two very different cultures'

Lily Walsh has never imagined anything like America. From supermarkets and swimsuits to the way women look men directly in the eye, she’s baffled by this strange new land. Raised in a remote Asian village by her disciplinarian father, 24–year–old Lily is thrilled to visit her brother Jeff in Hawaii—until Jeff is called away on urgent business.

Left in the care of Jeff’s best friend, Gabe Kapaia, and his family, Lily discovers the paradise of Oahu’s north side at the Kapaia Resort. But she walks a fine line between two worlds. Can she embrace her new experiences without breaking her promise not to shame her missionary father? When Lily finds herself falling for Gabe, her heart is torn. Will her upbringing force her to make the difficult choice between true love and family honor?




About the book:

Chloe Ledet's larger-than-life father, the famous New Orleans restaurateur Chef Julien, seems invincible---until he's shot under suspicious circumstances. Returning home, Chloe quickly discovers that their whole family is in terrible danger. Can she trust the handsome, mysterious Cajun who's helping her---or has she gone from the frying pan to the fire?

My review of Fools Rush In by Janice Thompson - it's making my best of 2009 list!

Fools Rush In: A Novel by Janice Thompson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fools Rush In was hilarious! I grew up in a neighborhood in NY with all Italian neighbors and Thompson has the cultural peculiarities nailed in this novel. It kind of reminds me of the romantic comedy "Return to Me" with Minnie Driver. I think that was one of the reasons I enjoyed the story so much. And that parrot Guido... that characterization was just crazy funny. The spiritual thread in this book also rang true and sounded very natural to me. I found that saint spouting during a crises (done by Aunt Rosa) particularly funny. This is the type of book I might actually read twice. And I can totally see this as a movie. I would definitely go see it and tell all of my friends to check it out because it's the perfect comedy. I loved that the author didn't slam anyone's culture in her attempt at humor, either. She poked fun without insulting and that was absolutely precious to me. Not many authors do this well.

When it comes to romance, I think I smiled and sighed while reading this story more than I have all year, which is why it's making my best fiction of 2009 list (and just in time as the year is almost over!) The hero in this story, DJ, was dreamy in a realistic way. I found his personality and genuine kindness irresistible. I totally adored him. And the heroine, Bella, God bless her, was a real sweetheart. She was a very likable heroine and I enjoyed getting to know her and her family. When DJ and Bella kissed, sparks flew. But they were innocent sparks even though they were incredibly romantic. They had some serious chemistry, but everything they did was so loving and sweet. This story shows that a good romance does not have to have a lie, a secret, a terrible misunderstanding, etc, to have amazing tension. There was not one dull page in this entire book. It was continually building and developing. The pacing was excellent. I cannot say enough good things about this book. I totally loved it!!! Now I must read the second book. I must!

Fools Rush In was published by Revell and released in Sept 2009.

View all my reviews >>

I'm a great aunt for the first time ever!

These are pics of my new great nephew Maddix. Isn't he cute?!?

What is Fiction Finder? It's a new way to find Christian fiction!

FictionFinder.com: Finding Christian fiction the easy way. Here is the press release!

ACFW launches new free online resource to search for titles

PALM BAY, Fla. — With over 500,000 books published each year, it is harder than ever to find a new book that’s just right. A simple Amazon search in the Christian literature and fiction category yields more than 17,000 results. Consumers wading through the exhaustive, seemingly endless list of choices now have a more manageable resource to help them purchase their next book. American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), the nation’s leading Christian fiction writers’ organization, is launching FictionFinder.com, a new free resource for retailers, readers, media and other Christian fiction fans to search for authors and books. The search engine allows users to sort by author, title, genre, topic, publication date, and target audience.

Cynthia Ruchti, president of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), believes this trusted, easy-to-use resource is a significant development in the search for Christian fiction authors and new titles.

"The idea rose from a roundtable discussion between the ACFW leadership team and Christian booksellers looking for a better way to connect their customers with great Christian fiction," says Ruchti.

"ACFW responded by rolling up our sleeves and creating a comprehensive database to serve readers, booksellers, publishers, authors, book club coordinators, librarians and others on the hunt for information and inspiration."

The site also allows readers to learn about the nature of the content of each book. Each title is rated for action, conflict, humor, mystery, romance, spirituality and suspense, in addition to more sensitive issues like language, sensuality and violence. Users can also post reviews to the site and learn more about soon-to-be-released titles. The database is the first of its kind and is not limited to books written by ACFW members. The organization is also working with publishers to ensure Christian novels by other authors are incorporated as well. ACFW’s presence as the voice of Christian fiction and its industry prowess has long been recognized, and its authors are a mainstay on bestseller lists. FictionFinder.com is the organization’s latest effort to make finding the best in Christian fiction as easy as possible for fans around the world.

Quick facts about fictionfinder.com:

* Book information pages include facts about the publisher, main themes, setting and the author’s other titles.

* A special “similar books” section offers other titles the user may be interested in reading.

* Users can create an account with their preferences, making it easier to find new favorites.

With nearly 2,000 members and 19 chapters in 14 states nationwide, ACFW seeks to promote Christian Fiction through developing the skills of its authors, educating them in the market, and serving as an advocate in the industry. Founded in 2000 under the banner of American Christian Romance writers, in 2004 the organization was renamed American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) to reflect its dedication to Christian fiction writers of all genres. ACFW is headquartered in Palm Bay, Florida. Their advisory and operating boards work to give writers the tools they need to develop their craft, grow ACFW’s extensive publishing knowledge and secure relationships with industry professionals. To learn more about ACFW and their authors, please visit www.acfw.com.

My new flash banner ad for First Impressions...

Sheriff's Surrender by Susan Page Davis is up on CFBA. (With bonus review!)

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Sheriff’s Surrender
Barbour Books (December 1, 2009)
by
Susan Page Davis


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


I've always loved reading, history, and horses. These things come together in several of my historical books. My young adult novel, Sarah's Long Ride, also spotlights horses and the rugged sport of endurance riding, as does the contemporary romance Trail to Justice. I took a vocational course in horseshoeing after earning a bachelor's degree in history. I don't shoe horses anymore, but the experience has come in handy in writing my books.

Another longtime hobby of mine is genealogy, which has led me down many fascinating paths. I'm proud to be a DAR member! Some of Jim's and my quirkier ancestors have inspired fictional characters

For many years I worked for the Central Maine Morning Sentinel as a freelancer, covering local government, school board meetings, business news, fires, auto accidents, and other local events, including a murder trial. I've also written many profiles and features for the newspaper and its special sections. This experience was a great help in developing fictional characters and writing realistic scenes. I also published nonfiction articles in several magazines and had several short stories appear in Woman's World, Grit, and Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine.

My husband, Jim, and I moved to his birth state, Oregon, for a while after we were married, but decided to move back to Maine and be near my family. We're so glad we did. It allowed our six children to grow up feeling close to their cousins and grandparents, and some of Jim's family have even moved to Maine!



ABOUT THE BOOK


Gert Dooley can shoot the tail feathers off a jay at a hundred yards, but she wants Ethan Chapman to see she's more than a crack shot with a firearm. When the sheriff of Fergus, Idaho, is murdered and Ethan is named his replacement, Gert decides she has to do whatever she can to help him protect the citizenry. So she starts the Ladies Shooting Club. But when one of their numbers is murdered, these ladies are called on for more than target shooting and praying. Can Gert and the ladies of Fergus find the murderer before he strikes again?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Sheriff’s Surrender , go HERE

My review:

The Sheriff's Surrender is a good story with quirky characters and a complex plot. Unlike some other books by Barbour authors (like M.L. Tyndall's for example), this story is very minimal on the romance. However, people who enjoy mysteries with a whodunnit theme and amateur sleuths trying to solve the crimes will enjoy this story. It wasn't boring, but there were a lot of characters to keep up with which made it harder to get to know the main players in the story. Typically romances have two main points of view but this book had several perspectives including some minor characters. But it was a cute story and I'd recommend it to people who like mystery based historical fiction and don't mind minimal romance.

There were some good themes in this story, too. Women are capable of more than just cooking and taking care of their men for one thing. Also, befriending the outcasts in society is truly Christ-like behavior. I loved how the new pastor's wife was portrayed in a positive light and how she was an example to the ladies of the town. I also loved how the women in the shooter's club reached out to the stinky old lady and to the saloon gals. The way the club grew and became a key ministry to the town was cool, too. I just wished there had been a bit more expression in regards to the hero and heroine's romantic relationship, though I did enjoy the progression of their thinking and the development of their friendship. I found it believable. All in all this was a good novel, but it was very tame. Even the potentially shocking material was low-key.

The Sheriff's Surrender was published by Barbour and released in Dec 2009.

Check out E-Books Survey Results

I thought this was quite interesting. Check it out!

I want you to take a look at: E-Books Survey Results 

Since I have ebooks in print, I was particularly happy with the results.

 

Now I'm giving away Ransome's Honor by Kaye Dacus (with bonus review!)

To have your name entered for a chance to win this novel simply post a comment telling me which Jane Austen Novel is your favorite. I will pick a winner next Sunday. As for me, I've only watched one movie, Sense and Sensibility starring Kate Winslet and I really enjoyed it. But I have no others to compare it to.

About the book:

July 1814. The war with France has ended, and Captain William Ransome, known for never letting women aboard his ship, has returned to Portsmouth, England. Julia Witherington, considered an old-maid at 29, discovers that she must marry immediately to receive a large dowry. Julia knows that the only man she doesn't want to marry is William Ransome. And the only man her father will approve of is- William Ransome.

When the couple strikes a financial deal to feign marriage for one year, the adventure begins. These stubborn people face humorous and hard situations that reveal what else they have in common-a growing affection for one another. This intriguing tale of faith and loyalty is a wonderful new offering for readers of all genres.

My review:

I really enjoyed reading Ransome's Honor. The title fit the story perfectly. It was like a blend of Marylu Tyndall's pirate stories as well as Linore Rose Burkard's novels. I've never read Jane Austen (oh the shame...) but I hear it has a similar feel to it. Ransome's Honor was filled with culture and details about the mid 1800s that gave it an authentic feel. Plus the use of language from that day in age made it seem like I was part of the era as I read along. I found William to be quite the gentleman and an exciting hero as well.

The story had just enough romantic tension to make me smile when things got tense between them. Julie was a likeable heroine and I found her feelings and responses to be authentic. I loved that she didn't wuss out and that she cared about other people more than herself, especially toward the end. It was interesting, too, how this book contained the other man's POV on occasion as well as a few other characters. It wasn't distracting like it often is when you get just a snapshot from one character's POV. In Ransome's Honor it added to the story rather than distracting from it.

All in all, I found this story delightful and I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys Regency era novels.

Ransome's Honor was published by Harvest House and released in July 2009.

The Familiar Stranger by Christina Berry is up on CFBA with bonus review!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Familiar Stranger
Moody Publishers (September 1, 2009)
by
Christina Berry

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Single mother and foster parent, Christina Berry carves time to write from her busy schedule because she must tell the stories that haunt her every waking moment. (Such is the overly dramatic description of an author's life!) She holds a BA in Literature, yet loves a good Calculus problem, as well. All that confusion must have influenced her decision to be team captain of a winning team on Family Feud.

Her debut novel, The Familiar Stranger, released from Moody in September and deals with lies, secrets, and themes of forgiveness in a troubled marriage. A moving speaker and dynamic teacher, Christina strives to Live Transparently--Forgive Extravagantly!

Her work has also appeared in The Secret Place, The Oregonian, and Daily Devotions for Writers.



ABOUT THE BOOK

Craig Littleton's decision to end his marriage would shock his wife, Denise . . . if she knew what he was up to. When an accident lands Craig in the ICU, with fuzzy memories of his own life and plans, Denise rushes to his side, ready to care for him.

They embark on a quest to help Craig remember who he is and, in the process, they discover dark secrets. An affair? An emptied bank account? A hidden identity? An illegitimate child?

But what will she do when she realizes he's not the man she thought he was? Is this trauma a blessing in disguise, a chance for a fresh start? Or will his secrets destroy the life they built together?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Familiar Stranger, go HERE

My review:

The Familiar Stranger was a real page turner. It was written so well that it wasn't until I was three quarters of the way through the story that I realized the point of view for each person (titled his and hers respectively in the novel) was written in the first person past tense. This was very well done and flawlessly executed, IMHO. The Familiar Stranger is also the perfect title for this incredible tale. It was an intriguing and a profoundly mysterious story that kept me guessing until nearly the end.

At first I was thinking something was occurring like what happened in Rekindled by Tamera Alexander. Then I thought it could be like "The Man in the Iron Mask" starring Leonardo Dicaprio. Then I thought of the movie "Summersby" starring Jodie Foster. Long story short, this delightfully romantic and emotional tale was one of the most amazing debuts I've read in a long time. It was well thought out, excellently plotted, and the characterization was so believable that it left me breathless. Yeah, I even got choked up several times, especially toward the end.

I found the resolution in The Familiar Stranger more satisfying and believeable than if the story had been taken a different direction. The unique spiritual perspective was also truly inspirational, which is why this book is making my best fiction for 2009 list. I highly recommend it.

Next question for the Desert Breeze Scavenger Hunt HERE!

Here is the next question....drum roll please!

In what city does the Future Imperfect series take place?

Go here to find the answer...

http://theegypsy.blogspot.com

The Christmas Lamp by Lori Copeland is up on CFBA with bonus review!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Christmas Lamp
Zondervan (October 1, 2009)
by
Lori Copeland


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lori Copeland has been writing for twenty-five years and has over three million copies of her books in print. She began her writing career in 1982, writing for the secular book market. In 1995, after many years of writing, Lori sensed that God was calling her to use her gift of writing to honor Him. It was at that time that she began writing for the Christian book market.

To date, she has more than 95 books published, including Now and Always, Simple Gifts, Unwrapping Christmas, and Monday Morning Faith, which was a finalist for the 2007 Christy Awards. Lori was inducted into the Springfield Writers Hall of Fame in 2000.

Lori lives in the beautiful Ozarks with her husband Lance. They have three sons, two daughter-in-laws, and five wonderful grandchildren. Lori and Lance are very involved in their church, and active in supporting mission work in Mali, West Africa.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Christmas trees, twinkling lights, skating in the park, and holiday displays are the hallmark elements for celebrating Jesus birth for the sentimental residents of Nativity, Missouri. Will fiscal responsibility replace Christmas their traditions when times are tough? Though their priorities and methods clash, Roni Elliot and Jake Brisco want the same thing, for the town to prosper. As the two get to know each other better, each begins to gain a new perspective on what the real wealth of Nativity and the season might be.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Christmas Lamp, go HERE

My review:

This was a cozy Christmas story with the required warm fuzzies and a touch of romance. The title didn't seem to fit the story, though. There was nothing especially profound about this book. The conflict was there but more tender and in the holiday spirit that most. Plus the tension between them was modified by their attraction to each other, which I found endearing. I liked that it wasn't overly done. So if you want a cozy read that begs for hot chocolate and a fireplace to curl up in front of, you'll want to read this book or buy it for someone this Christmas.

Video with answer for Scavenger Hunt contestants...

My review of The Christmas Glass by Marci Alborghetti

The Christmas Glass: A Novel by Marci Alborghetti

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

There were some good things about this story and some that took away from it. For one, the author had a strong voice when she was showing you the relationships between characters. I enjoyed the conflict and found that to be realistic. The same goes for how she showed the decades of grudges and the matriach's desire to see her family connections restored. On the negative side there were a few too many characters whose point of view you had to be in and a lot of that was written in a telling format because there was not enough time to really show the characters developing. When the author did show the relationships and the conflict the book was compelling. When she told their invidual backgrounds it lost some of it's appeal. Also, the ending wasn't quite what I'd hoped. But overall I felt like it was a decent Christmas read. I didn't get any warm fuzzies, though. This story was uniquely done and you have to read it to see what I mean.

View all my reviews >>

Whirlwind by Robert Liparulo is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Whirlwind
Thomas Nelson (December 29, 2009)
by
Robert Liparulo


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robert Liparulo is a former journalist, with over a thousand articles and multiple writing awards to his name. His first novel, Comes a Horseman, released to critical acclaim. Each of his subsequent thrillers—Germ, Deadfall, and Deadlock—secured his place as one of today’s most popular and daring thriller writers.

He is known for investing deep research and chillingly accurate predictions of near-future scenarios into his stories. In fact, his thorough, journalistic approach to research has resulted in his becoming an expert on the various topics he explores in his fiction, and he has appeared on such media outlets as CNN and ABC Radio.

Liparulo’s visual style of writing has caught the eye of Hollywood producers. Currently, three of his novels for adults are in various stages of development for the big screen: the film rights to Comes A Horseman. were purchased by the producer of Tom Clancy’s movies; and Liparulo is penning the screenplays for GERM and Deadfall for two top producers. He is also working with the director Andrew Davis (The Fugitive, Holes) on a political thriller. Novelist Michael Palmer calls Deadfall “a brilliantly crafted thriller.” March 31st marked the publication of Deadfall’s follow-up, Deadlock, which novelist Gayle Lynds calls, “best of high-octane suspense.”

Liparulo’s bestselling young adult series, Dreamhouse Kings, debuted last year with House of Dark Shadows and Watcher in the Woods. Book three, Gatekeepers, released in January, and number four, Timescape, in July. The series has garnered praise from readers, both young and old, as well as attracting famous fans who themselves know the genre inside and out. Of the series, Goosebumps creator R.L. Stine says, “I loved wandering around in these books. With a house of so many great, haunting stories, why would you ever want to go outside?”

With the next two Dreamhouse books “in the can,” he is currently working on his next thriller, which for the first time injects supernatural elements into his brand of gun-blazing storytelling. The story is so compelling, two Hollywood studios are already in talks to acquire it—despite its publication date being more than a year away. After that comes a trilogy of novels, based on his acclaimed short story, which appeared in James Patterson’s Thriller anthology. New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry calls Liparulo’s writing “Inventive, suspenseful, and highly entertaining . . . Robert Liparulo is a storyteller, pure and simple.” He lives with his family in Colorado.

Visit Robert Liparulo's Facebook Fan page: http://www.facebook.com/LiparuloFans


ABOUT THE BOOK

Which door do you go through to save the world?

David, Xander, and Toria King never know where the mysterious portals in their house will take them: past, present, or future. They have battled gladiators and the German army, dodged soldiers on both sides of the Civil War, and jumped from the sinking Titanic. They've also seen the stark future that awaits if they can't do something to change it--a destroyed city filled with mutant creatures.

And they've still got to find a way to bring Mom back and keep Taksidian from getting them out of the house. The dangers are hitting them like a whirlwind . . . but the answers are becoming apparent as well.

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

My thoughts:

Haven't gotten the book yet. I loved the first book in this series. It scared the bejeebers out of me.

Now I'm giving away Powers by John B. Olson!

To enter your name in the contest to win a copy of this book simply post a comment telling me what you think of the picture on the cover. Does it make you want to read the book? Freak you out? For me, it makes me think of the Grim Reaper. :) Anyway, best wishes. I will randomly select a winner next Sunday!



About the book:

A Gypsy girl isolated in a Louisiana swamp believes the only escape from strange powers chasing her is through a mysterious character she knows from her late grandfather’s bedtime stories.

Win these books and coffee holders from Tosca Lee!

In honor of my friend Tosca and her amazing books, I'm doing an early Christmas giveaway. Post a comment telling me why you want to win these items and you will be entered to win the two autographed books and matching cups! Is that a great gift for yourself or what?



Tosca says, "What have you got to lose?" (Not really but I think the picture is so stinking cute I just had to share it!)

Me with Tosca and a few other cool pics from yesterday at CWOW!

Here is Tosca just being herself...

I invited my friend Jessie to the meeting...

and I invited my friend David from ECFL!

and I stayed at my buddy Lauryn's house!

Me with my friend (and amazing author) Tosca Lee!

Don't ask me why the pics are different sizes. I can't figure it out.

Circle of Friends award...

A huge THANK YOU to Andrea from Pray Without Ceasing for giving me this wonderful award.

I am suppose to tell 5 things I love to do:


1) Hugging my husband and my two sons.

2) Reading a great book (especially romances).

3) Going to my church (Calvary Chapel).

4) Sitting by the fire with family.

5) Talking about the Bible with family and friends.


I'm passing this on to:

Debra Ullrick

K. Dawn Byrd

Lynn Rush

Seed Thoughts by Lauren Abbott

Raising Rain by Debbie Fuller Thomas is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Raising Rain
Moody Publishers (September 1, 2009)
by
Debbie Fuller Thomas


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Debbie writes contemporary fiction from an historic Gold Rush town in Northern California. By day, she manages after school and day camp programs, and she burns the midnight oil to write what she loves. Her first book Tuesday Night at the Blue Moon, is a Christy finalist. Raising Rain, her second book became available September 2009.

Debbie has contributed to story collections such as Chicken Soup for the Bride's Soul, and Lord, I Was Happy Shallow, along with articles in Coping With Cancer magazine.

She has two teenagers and her husband is the executive pastor on Sonrise Church with 1,000 members. Debbie is a manager at Auburn Area Parks and Recreation.



ABOUT THE BOOK


Raised to be a 'new woman' by her mother and three college roommates in
the 70's amid anti-war protests, feminist rallies, and finals, Rain
Rasmussen discovers that putting her career first has left her overdrawn
at the egg-bank, and her baby fever has now driven off her significant
other.

When her terminally ill mother demands a Celebration of Life before she
dies; they all confront ghosts from the past on a 'stormy' weekend in
Monterey. Bebe, the roommate closest to Rain's heart, revisits choices
that have impacted Rain the most, raising doubts about God's—and her
own—willingness to forgive and to be forgiven.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Raising Rain, go HERE.

My thoughts:

I'll post them Sunday after I have a chance to read some of this books. I'm starting it tonight.

The Christmas Glass by Marci Alborghetti is up on CFBA!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Christmas Glass
GuidepostsBooks (October 1, 2009)
by
Marci Alborghetti


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


Marci Alborghetti has been writing only slightly longer than she's been reading. In seventh grade she received her first writing prize for a zany Halloween story. The prize? A five dollar gift certificate to a local bookstore. She was hooked. The Christmas Glass is her fourteenth book, and she is currently at work on a sequel as well as a non-fiction book about service. Some of her other books include: Prayer Power: How to Pray When You Think You Can’t, A Season in the South and Twelve Strong Women of God.

She and her husband, Charlie Duffy, live in New London, Connecticut and the San Francisco Bay area. While in New London she facilitates the Saint James Literary Club.



ABOUT THE BOOK

In the tradition of The Christmas Shoes and A Christmas on Jane Street, the heartwarming story of The Christmas Glass shows how, today as always, the Christmas miracle works its wonders in the human heart.

In the early days of World War II in Italy, Anna, a young widow who runs a small orphanage, carefully wraps her most cherished possessions -- a dozen hand-blown, German-made, Christmas ornaments, handed down by her mother -- and sends them to a cousin she hasn't seen in years.

Anna is distressed to part with her only tangible reminder of her mother, but she worries that the ornaments will be lost or destroyed in the war, especially now that her orphanage has begun to secretly shelter Jewish children. Anna's young cousin Filomena is married with two-year-old twins when she receives the box of precious Christmas glass.

After the war, Filomena emigrates to America, where the precious ornaments are passed down through the generations. After more than forty years, twelve people come to possess a piece of Christmas glass, some intimately connected by family bonds, some connected only through the history of the ornaments.

As Christmas Day approaches, readers join each character in a journey of laughter and tears, fractures and healings, as Filomena, now an eighty-four-year-old great-grandmother, brings them all to what will be either a wondrous reunion or a disaster that may shatter them all like the precious glass they cherish.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Christmas Glass, go HERE


My thoughts:

Good story even though there is a lot more "telling" than showing in many of the chapters.

Blog tour stop for Wind of the Spirit by J. M. Hochstetler

Blog tour for Wind of the Spirit by J. M. Hochstetler... brought to you by Pump Up Your Book Promotion Virtual Book Tours.

Buy Wind of the Spirit on Amazon.com

About the author:

J. M. Hochstetler writes stories that always involve some element of the past and of finding home. Born in central Indiana, the daughter of Mennonite farmers, she graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Germanic languages. She was an editor with Abingdon Press for twelve years and has published four novels. Daughter of Liberty (2004), Native Son (2005), and Wind of the Spirit (March 2009), the first three books of the critically acclaimed American Patriot Series, are set during the American Revolution. One Holy Night, a retelling of the Christmas story set in modern times, is the 2009 Christian Small Publishers Fiction Book of the Year and a finalist for the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Long Contemporary Book of the Year.

Hochstetler is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Christian Authors Network, Middle Tennessee Christian Writers, Nashville Christian Writers Association, and Historical Novels Society. She and her husband live near Nashville, Tennessee.

You can find Joan online at http://www.jmhochstetler.com/ or at this book’s blog http://americanpatriotseries.blogspot.com/

About the book:

Elizabeth Howard’s assignment to gain crucial intelligence for General Washington leads her into the very maw of war at the Battle of Brooklyn Heights, where disaster threatens to end the American rebellion. Yet her heart is fixed on Jonathan Carleton, whose whereabouts remain unknown more than a year after he disappeared into the wilderness.

Carleton, now the Shawnee war chief White Eagle, is caught in a bitter war of his own. As unseen forces gather to destroy him, he leads the fight against white settlers encroaching on Shawnee lands—while battling the longing for Elizabeth that will not give him peace. Can her love bridge the miles that separate them—and the savage bonds that threaten to tear him forever from her arms?

My review:

People who love historical fiction with intense romantic themes and who find tribal culture fascinating will love this book. Wind of the Spirit carries you away--literally--to another time and place. The perfect combination of descriptive setting and emotive wording pulled me into the story, and the gripping scenes kept me turning the pages. The cool thing was that the tension in the story kept building while educating me about history at the same time. The romance is so well done and so beautifully written that I wouldn't change a thing. The author shows love as a holy experience. . . when it occurs the way God intended. Not many books have captivated me like this one. Wind of the Spirit is filled with delicious conflict, plus it's honest, and edgy. Wonderful story!