Book video trailer for In Plain Sight - April 2010 releasse

You like? It's the sequel to Danger at the Door.

Here is the new cover for my April 1st release, which is the sequel to Danger at the Door. This book is about the hero's sister, Jovana, from the first book. See how the covers go together? If you loved Danger at the Door you are REALLY going to like In Plain Sight. I certainly like it more. Why? Because this book is my edgiest romance yet!

Here is the cover of the first book... Danger at the Door

Now I'm giving away Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren!

To enter your name in the contest for a chance to win this book simply post a comment about something related to two brothers being in love with the same girl. Have you known someone in this situation? What happened? I will go first by referencing my book, It's Not About Me. It's about two brothers who are in love with the same girl. Cool, yes? I love stories with precarious situations that are lose-lose and not win-win. Makes for a compelling story. So....?

I'll pick a winner's name next Sunday via the randomizer program. Peace!


About the book:

Sophie Frangos is torn between the love of two men and the promise that binds them all together. Markos Stavros loves Sophie from afar while battling his thirst for vengeance and his hunger for honor. Dino, his quiet and intelligent brother, simply wants to forget the horror that drove them from their Greek island home to start a new life in America. One of these sons of thunder offers a future she longs for, the other the past she lost. From the sultry Chicago jazz clubs of the roaring twenties to the World War II battlefields of Europe to a final showdown in a Greek island village, they'll discover betrayal, sacrifice and finally redemption. Most of all, when Sophie is forced to make her choice, shell learn that God honors the promises made by the Sons of Thunder.

My review of A Beautiful Day devotional by Gwen Ford Faulkenberry

Description:

It's easy to praise the Lord when things are going well, but what about the days when the sun isn't shining and your heart is broken? A Beautiful Day by Gwen Ford Faulkenberry shows how it is possible to see beauty and God's goodness every day through 40 inspiring devotions and anecdotes. With an embossed hardcover and satin ribbon marker A Beautiful Day makes a lovely gift to give or receive.

My review:

I really enjoyed this devotional. It wasn't full of cheesy stories and examples but had rather deep thoughts on life and the things God tries to show us in our everyday situations. The stories connect well with meditating on God's goodness and beauty in our lives. This include stories about things that don't always make sense to us but are still a part of our lives. This book would make a great gift, too. It's attractive and easy to follow, plus it's decorative and small; just the right size for a coffee table or to set near your Bible.

My review of Seasons in the Mist by Deborah Kinnard!

About the book:

Stranded in 1353 Cornwall, American graduate student Bethany Lindstrom knows she must find a way back to her own time or face a life of falsehoods and peril. But with the stern overlord Sir Michael Veryan, she is swept into the intrigues of King Edward's court, which will test their mettle and their faith in God to the limits-and forever bind their lives together.

My review:

This Medieval tale of love is rich with historical detail and lyrical prose. The characters, setting, language, culture, and the pure simplicity of it all creates an escape for the reader that is so fantastic it is hard to pull one's mind back to the present. And the romance was awesome. Too bad it's not real life. Michael was so heroic and yummy I couldn't get enough of him.

Full of passion and emotion, Seasons in the Mist takes historical fiction lovers on an emotional ride they won't soon forget. Is time travel a new trend in Christian fiction? This novel may very well start one because it grabs the reader and pulls them through a portal that is so realistic and convincing readers will be hooked and want more from this author. I, for one, thoroughly enjoyed the ride. I hope there is a sequel in the making.

Seasons in the Mist is published by Sheaf House and releases in April 2010. Make sure to pre-order this book today! It's available everywhere. Here is a link on Barnes and Noble's site. Pre-order Seasons in the Mist!

The Big 5-Oh! by Sandra D. Bricker is up on CFBA!

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

The Big 5-Oh!Abingdon Press (February 2010)

by

Sandra D. Bricker



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For more than a decade, Author Sandra D. Bricker lived in Los Angeles. While writing in every spare moment, she worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television's hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she walked away from that segment of her life and moved across the country to take on a new role: Caregiver.

One of Sandie's passions revolves around the rights of animals. She's been involved in fundraising for Lost Angels Animal Rescue for several years now; in fact, a portion of the proceeds of Love Finds You in Holiday, Florida will go to help the non-profit group with their expenses. And Lost Angels paid her back in a big way: They brought a free-spirited Collie named Sophie into her life after the loss of her 15-year companion Caleb.



It was her 8th novel that opened the door to finding her way as a writer.

In Sandie's words: "I guess most people would see my career as a publicist as a sort of dream job. But giving it up turned out to be the best thing that could have happened to me!" she declares. "Not only was I given the gift of getting to know my mother as an adult woman before she passed away, but I was also afforded the blessing of being able to focus completely on my dream of a writing career. I'm a Christian woman, first and foremost, so it was a bit of a dream-come-true when Summerside Press chose me as one of two authors to launch their new Love Finds You line."


ABOUT THE BOOK

Olivia Wallace has a birthday curse . . . or so she thinks. It was a broken heart on her 16th, a car accident on her 21st, pneumonia on her 30th, and a fall down a flight of stairs on her 35th. There were Ohio blizzards on her 38th, 39th, and 40th; and six days before her 45th, she lost the love of her life to a heart attack. Numbing grief stole that birthday and a couple more to follow and, on the morning of her 48th birthday, she received the call she’d dreaded ever since losing her mom so many years ago…she was diagnosed with stage-3 ovarian cancer. The doctors didn’t hold out a lot of hope, but Liv survived and maintained her faith. Months of surgeries and chemotherapy and radiation treatments followed.

But now, as her 50th birthday creeps up the icy Ohio path toward her, her hair has grown back, her energy level is up, and she is officially cancer free. It makes her nervous. After everything she’s gone through, Liv hates the idea of driving on icy roads and returning to work as an O.R. nurse in a local Cincinnati hospital.

Her best friend Hallie knows just the thing to break Liv out of the winter doldrums, while providing a safe haven of warmth, sunshine, and a time to regroup: a holiday in the Florida sunshine!


If you'd like to read the first chapter of The Big 5-Oh!, go HERE


Watch the trailer:



My Thoughts:

I am really enjoying this story! I totally love it. I hope to finish it by this weekend. If I didn't have to go to work I'd read it through to the end. But I have to pay the mortgage and feed my family.

Abigail by Jill Eileen Smith blog tour stop with bonus review!

About the book:

Abigail's hopes and dreams for the future are wrapped up in her handsome, dark-eyed betrothed, Nabal. But when the long-awaited wedding day arrives, her drunken groom behaves shamefully. Nevertheless, Abigail tries to honor and respect her husband despite his abuse of her. Meanwhile, Abigail's family has joined David's wandering tribe as he and his people keep traveling to avoid the dangerous Saul. When Nabal suddenly dies, Abigail is free to move on with her life, and thanks to her brother, her new life includes a new husband--David. The dangers of tribal life on the run are serious, but there are other dangers in young Abigail's mind. How can David lead his people effectively when he goes against God? And how can Abigail share David's love with the other wives he insists on marrying?

My review:

This novel should be on the NY Times best-seller list. I'm not kidding! In fact, I don't think I've ever said this before about any book I've reviewed. For people who love Biblical fiction, this story should knock their socks off. I'll tell you why...

I was totally entrenched in the lives of the characters and the setting the entire time I read this book. I would've read it straight through if life hadn't gotten in the way. I loved the realism, the emotion, the romance, the way the characters communicated. And the whole multiple wives and the jealousies between them was masterfully done. The writing in this book was also top-notch. It was gripping and smooth with no jarring moments or clunky writing phrases. Can you tell I loved this book?

Abigail's story touched my heart, inspired me, and made me want to love people more. I also loved the multiple love scenes between Abigail and David. Hot, but tasteful, which is the way it should be. Very realistic and just edgy enough to make me want to say, "Go, Jill!" The way the author illustrated Abigail's marriage to Nabal was great, but it was even more exciting when her life touched David's. And when she had her first child I was impressed with how she showed David's handling of the situation and her misunderstanding it.

Here is the best part! Unlike a lot of secular Biblical fiction authors, Jill Eileen Smith shows David's imperfections and those of his wives with great taste and in a way that honored God. He was easy to love in spite of his flaws because she handled his character development so well, while at the same time keeping it true to the Scriptures. One of my favorite aspects of this story was how the author sprinkled various Scriptures into the scenes when they were appropriate. Wonderful, wonderful book and highly recommended.

Abigail was provided by Revell for me to review and was released in February 2010.

Out with the In Crowd by Stephanie Morrill blog tour stop here! (With review)

About the book:

Skylar Hoyt may have vowed to change her partying ways, but it's not so easy to change her friends. Even though the old Skylar is gone, she's still not sure who this new Skylar really is. Add to that two parents battling for her loyalty, a younger sister struggling with a crisis pregnancy, and a new boyfriend wishing for more of her time, and Skylar feels like she can't win. After all, how do you choose favorites among the people you love most?

My review:

Out with the In Crowd was excellent. I liked it even better than the first book, and I definitely recommend reading them in order to get the full effect. I may not have liked Skylar had I started with the second book. However, I understood her well by the time I read this second novel in the series so it worked for me. The plotting, inner dialog, and characterization were incredibly realistic and totally reminded me of my highschool days with the on and off relationships and the worries teens had. And the petty things girls and guys did like participating in activities just to be around certain people you liked - drove me nuts! (But did that myself a time or two).

There was so much good stuff that could be gleaned from this story. I loved the portrayal of the sister's pregnancy and the undecidedness that often occurs with girls who are so young. Skylar did a great job trying to be there for her family while suffering from a bit of self-absorption herself. But hey, she was a teenager and a senior trying to figure out her own path to take after graduation. I really appreciated how this story showed that running away from your problems (or denying them) solves nothing, and in fact, often makes things worse. I am so glad I'm done with high school and have been for many years. I just wish they'd had realistic books like this when I was a teen because this story includes Christian themes and attitudes and the need for a personal relationship with Christ that simply didn't exist when I was young. I am really looking forward to the third book in this series. This is making my best fiction of 2010 list! I must have a thing for books published by Revell/Baker. LOL!

Thank you Revell for sending me this book to review for the tour!

Out With the In Crowd was published by Revell and released in January 2010!

Now I'm giving away Songbird Under a German Moon by Tricia Goyer

To enter your name in the contest for a chance to win this book simply post a comment that answers this question...Do you have a favorite WWII fiction novel? Author? Who is it and why do you love their book(s)?

I'll go first. My favorite author(s) of WWII fiction are Brock and Bodie Thoene (with Tricia Goyer and Jack Cavanaugh tying for second place). Part of this reason is they are the first Christian fiction authors I'd ever read. The book I was introduced to by a friend was titled Vienna Prelude. As I read each story in the series I became entrenched in that era and in WWII Europe. I lived in their world. Because of these authors I became hooked on Christian fiction and the rest is history. What about you?

I will select a winner next Sunday. Enjoy!



About the Book:

The year is 1945. The war is over and 21-year-old Betty Lake has been invited to Europe to sing in a USO tour for American soldiers who now occupy Hitlers Germany. The first night's performance is a hit. Betty becomes enthralled with the applause, the former Nazi-held mansion they're housed in and the attention of Frank Witt, the US Army Signal Corp Photographer. Yet the next night this songbird is ready to fly the coop when Betty's dear friend, Kat, turns up missing. Betty soon realizes Frank's photographs could be the key to finding Kat. Betty and Frank team up against post-war Nazi influences and the two lovebirds' hearts may find the answers...in each other. But will they have a chance for their romance to sing? The truth will be revealed under a German moon.

My thoughts:

I love Tricia Goyer's WWII fiction titles. I am sure I'll love this one, too. I have it down to review soon and as the moment I finish it I'll post my review.

My review of Scars and Stilettos by Harmony Dust!

More like 4.5 stars! Excellent book and ministry tool. Highly recommended.

About the book:

Fear of being abandoned keeps nineteen-year-old Harmony Dust trapped in an abusive and cruel relationship. She thinks she has hit bottom-tens of thousands of dollars in debt, struggling to get by, and so controlled by her boyfriend that she doesn't protest when he begins openly sleeping around. Things can't get worse . . . until someone tells her how much money she can make as an exotic dancer. For the next three years, Harmony lives a double life as Monique, a dancer in a fully-nude strip club.


Scars and Stilettos by Harmony Dust


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this story/memoir and read it straight through. I found it compelling and well written. In fact, I had to keep reminding myself that it wasn't a novel because it read like one. The author gives the reader a real feel for the lifestyle and how a young woman can get pulled into it without making the reader feel icky. Not an easy task with this type of subject matter. I appreciate how she showed that God had used the damage from her past to heal her in the present, and to prepare her for the future so she could minister to others.

I personally have been in similar situations as have many of the people I've worked with in child welfare. In these situations they agreed to something they didn't want to do out of fear of losing something they thought they had but was never really theirs to begin with. That particular theme in the story is what makes it so sad and yet, so real. The early childhood abuse taught her not to fight or to assert herself because she would always lose. That is how so many teens that I have worked with felt about themselves. They would make poor choices because they felt they had no choice. Yet when they realized they'd had a choice it was too late. Sad, but very real life. Bottom line...the authenticity of the story amazed me. And to be brave enough to tell it in all of it's shameful subject matter is incredible. That can only be done with God's help.

In Scars and Stilettos I didn't feel like the author was trying to glorify her past, but intended to walk the reader through her story in regards to the thought and emotion she went through as she deal with so many things. It was even powerful of a story in that regard. The beauty of how God reached her right where she was inspired me the most. How true that you don't win people to Christ by shaming them, but by filling them with the love of Christ, and then the behavior changes. You can't make anyone change by condeming them, but with love, you can move mountains. Isn't that so true? This book is not a downer; I really encouraged me. I loved that Harmony pointed out that she waited to heal before getting involved in a new relationship. That was a very healthy message. I have nothing but good things to say about this book.

View all my reviews >>

SORMAG's Blog: FEATURED AUTHOR: Michelle Sutton

SORMAG's Blog: FEATURED AUTHOR: Michelle Sutton

Read the interview (slightly different than others) and enter to win a copy of my book First Impressions. It's easy!

The Stacy Hawkins Adams blog tour stop is here!

Dreams That Won’t Let Go Blog Tour & Giveaway
Brought to you by TyWebbin Creations Virtual Blog Tours

About the Book:

Indigo Burns is excited. Her wedding preparations to the man of her dreams are underway, her photography career is a success, and her family seems to be doing better than ever—all except her brother Reuben, who nobody has seen in years. But that’s about to change.

When Reuben decides to move back home to Jubilant, Texas, he hopes to find healing with his sisters. But Indigo isn’t so sure their relationship can be mended. And when younger sister Yasmin makes a life-altering choice, it seems like only a miracle can put the Burns family back together.

Will these siblings – and the rest of their family - ever be able to love unconditionally and release each other to live their dreams?

Book Review:

This third book in Stacy's series can't be the end. I don't want it to be. I want to read more about the families in Jubilant, and the stories the characters have to tell. Dreams that Won't Let Go continues the story of Reuben and his young family's arrival back into the lives of his siblings and the grandparents who raised them. There is more than a little bit of resentment on his sisters' parts when he gets all the attention, though he never asked for it. Yasmin wants to start modeling again and causes her own drama within the family that shakes them up, yet brings them together at the same time. And Indigo is trying to plan a wedding but nobody seems to be paying attention.

My favorite character in this book was Reuben's wife, who happens to be visually impaired. She really touched my heart because I know people like her. They present as competent and in control and yet there is a vulnerable side to all women, even competent ones. I thought it was sweet that he saw her need for him. That was a moving scene when she woke and he wasn't there. Reuben was a good guy and a great husband to her. I loved how she touched all of his family and helped bridge the gap between them with her assured and loving ways. I also liked how the pastor was brought into the family circle to help them all heal. That shows a great example of how the church can be effective when people need help and the pastor is truly there for them. Overall, I enjoyed this book, but I have to say my favorite in the series was the second book, Worth a Thousand Words. But any book Stacy writes is a good story. She has a unique writing style and voice that always holds my attention.

About the Author

Stacy Hawkins Adams is a nationally-published, award-winning author and speaker. Her contemporary women’s fiction novels are filled with social themes and spiritual quests that take readers on journeys into their own souls.

She holds a degree in journalism and served as a newspaper reporter for more than a decade before turning her full attention to penning books, speaking professionally and writing freelance articles.

Stacy lives in a suburb of Richmond, Virginia with her husband and two young children. Visit Stacy online at stacyhawkinsadams.com.

Dreams That Won’t Let Go GIVEAWAY!

WIN a set of signed books from the Jubilant Soul Series AND a free one-hour session with Helena Nyman, an executive coach.

Answer the following question in the comment section to be eligible for the giveaway.

What dreams are simmering in your heart and waiting to be birthed?

Visit the full blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/DreamsThatWontLetGo

Swinging on a Star by Janice Thompson blog tour stop here! (Plus review!)

A light but satisfying series debut that will appeal to fans of Kristin Billerbeck. — Library Journal

Janice Thompson returns with another hilarious tale in the Weddings by Bella series with Swinging on a Star. In this latest release from Thompson, Bella Rossi's life is nearing perfection. She's got the perfect guy, she's running a successful business, and she's about to plan her most ambitious wedding yet, a Renaissance-themed fairy tale come true, complete with period costumes and foods, horse-drawn carriages, and even a castle. There's just one hitch. The best man just happens to be Brock Benson, Hollywood's hottest and most eligible bachelor. Oh, and did we mention he's staying at the Rossi house to avoid the paparazzi?

Swinging on a Star
by Janice Thompson
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3343-8
January 2010, $14.99

About the book:

With all the pressure surrounding this wedding, Bella's not sure she's going to make it through. Add her starstruck sister, her feuding aunt and uncle, and a trio of large, sequined church ladies with even bigger personalities, and you've got a recipe for disaster—and a lot of laughs. This hilarious romantic comedy is sure to delight both fans and new readers alike.

My review:

I didn't think it was possible for Janice to top her last book, Fools Rush In, which made my top fiction list for 2009. Well, I liked this story even better, so it's definitely making my top fiction list for 2010. Swinging on a Star was incredible. There were enough romantic moments to make even the stodgiest woman swoon. And the kisses were to-die-for romantic. Did I mention that D.J. is probably the hottest hero ever? Mainly because he lives his faith from the inside out and he's so genuine! Granted, I know he's just a pretend person, but I feel like the characters in this book are people I actually know.

There are so many funny one liners in this story that I found myself laughing quite a bit. And as far as surprises go, this story was loaded with them. The author also does an amazing job of torturing her characters and showing crazy Italian drama like nobody's business. I grew up with people just like the Rossi's so I loved them all. I really want this series to be like one of Karen Kingsbury's series, then it will go on and on for six books or more. I can't get enough of Bella and her amazing weddings. The details are so rich and fun. I feel like I am participating the whole time. It's cool that the only character whose point of view you are in is Bella's for both books, but the author makes is so smooth you can't tell you are in first person and you feel like you know the other people as if you were in their heads even though you aren't. The only other author who does this very well is Kristin Billerbeck. Great job, Janice!

This amazing novel had many spiritual and emotionally insightful moments about human behavior and people in general that, IMHO, puts this series light years above the rest of Christian fiction in terms of takeaway value. The author delves into many truths, is frank about the Christian faith, and she warms your heart at the same time. It didn't feel preachy, but totally natural given the way this family interacts with each other. And Brock, now there was a hottie to be reckoned with. I enjoyed getting to know him, too. My eyes misted on several occasions as I got to know him and other characters better. I ended the story with a satisfied sigh. That, to me, makes for a perfect story. Janice has a unique voice that is snarky in a fun-loving way and isn't mean at all. She really knows how to deliver on all accounts and I'm loving this series because of it. Highly recommended.

Thank you Revell for providing this fun book for me to review! Blog tour brought to you by...

Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life. They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet.

For more information, visit http://www.revellbooks.com/.

Blog tour stop for Anything But Normal by Melody Carlson!

About the book:

Sophie is starting a new school year. Shopping for it with her best friend should be fun, but nothing seems to fit, which is a major issue to a high school girl. But her biggest problem is the secret she's keeping. And she's about to find out that she won't be able to keep things under wraps for much longer. This page-turning novel explores the tangled web of choices, secrets, and love that all teen girls navigate.

From the Back Cover:

She thought she'd left the summer behind . . . This year should be the best of Sophie Ramsay's life. She's friends with all the right people, she's a shoo-in for editor of the school newspaper, and she's managed to turn the head of one of the hottest guys in school. But something's not quite right. Sophie has a secret--one she won't be able to keep under wraps for much longer.

My Review:

This story tackles a tough subject. Anything But Normal is an excellent illustration of how one mistake can shred someone's future plans, or at least alter them in a major way. I really enjoyed this story. As a social worker I've come across similar situations and this story reflects scenarios that some of the teens I have worked with have experienced. Young people have a lapse in judgment one time and their world is jacked up for years to come. It's true with many young women that once they've fallen they don't see the point of trying to stay pure anymore. They feel ruined for life and nothing fixes that. Confessing brings forgiveness but the consequences remain. And often it wasn't something the girl wanted to begin with. It was the guy's idea.

I thought the author did a great job with the guilt she experienced, with her wanting to hide the evidence, her fear of people finding out, etc. And best of all, the author did a great job showing the issues surrounding people who are not showing Christ's love and forgiveness. That was well done. People don't realize how self-righteous they sound when they spout off about things they really don't understand. This story is about compassion and the need for more of it. It's also about not shooting the wounded when they are down. I really understood Sophie and her many issues. I adored Wes. He was such a great guy. And Dylan was pretty much what I expected. Unfortunately his response is all too common in scenarios that I've seen. I loved how the Pastor got involved in the end and how Sophie went to the church for help. That was a great example of how things should work when people are hurting and need support. While the story didn't make me cry like I expected, it definitely touched my heart and I'm sure it will do the same for many young women who need to hear the message.

Anything But Normal was published by Revell and released in January 2010.

Thanks go to Revell for providing this book for me to review.

Love Finds You in Bridal Veil, Oregon by Miralee Ferrel is up on CFBA! (Plus review!)

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Love Finds You in Bridal Veil, Oregon

Summerside Press (January 1, 2010)by

Miralee Ferrell


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

In October 2007 Kregel Publications published The Other Daughter with excellent reviews. The Romantic Times Review magazine gave it Four out of Four and a half stars, with a very strong review. Two different major motion picture studios are currently considering the book as a possible family movie, and my second book in the series (Past Shadows) is on my publishers desk being reviewed for a possible contract offer now.

In February of 2009, Love Finds You in Last Chance, California was published by Summerside Press


And Finding Jeena will release in April 2010 from Kregel Publications.

Miralee Ferrell lives in Washington with Allen, her husband of more than 37 years, ans has two grown children. She serves on staff at her local church ans is actively involved in ministry to women.


ABOUT THE BOOK
Against a backdrop of thievery and murder in Bridal Veil Falls, Oregon, a historic logging community, a schoolteacher is torn between the memories of a distant love and the man who could be her future.

Sixteen-year-old Margaret Garvey had given her heart to Nathaniel Cooper the night he disappeared from town. Four years later, just as she's giving love a second chance with Andrew, a handsome logger, Nathaniel suddenly returns. He steams back into Bridal Veil on a riverboat to work at the nearby sawmill to town with a devastating secret.

While grappling with the betrayal of those she trusted most, Margaret risks her reputation and position by harboring two troubled runaways who might be involved in the murder of a local man.

When disaster strikes the town and threatens the welfare of its citizens, Margaret will be faced with the most important choice of her life.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Love Finds You in Bridal Veil, Oregon, go HERE

My review:

This was a good story and fairly well-paced. The writing was mature and there was some mystery to the plot. I enjoyed the characters and the tension, though the story was far from edgy. It did have a good message about real love versus the attraction of youth. I felt like the story was a bit too long, though, but it was still a great read. I loved that Margaret had to choose the right man. Nice conflict there because I honestly didn't know which way she was going to go myself. The part of the book about the mill pond and the fire made me think of Marlo Schalesky's story Veil of Fire. However, the year and the state were different, so it's obviously not the same historical event. The fire scenes were briskly paced and I felt the sense of peril the towns people must have experienced. I read this book fairly quickly, though I was sick in bed most of the time. It was a nice historical and I can see why it's popular. I enjoyed it.

Win some homemade soap by reading my latest interview...

Here is a link!

Make sure to post a comment there and answer the question. Don't post here unless it's to tell me you read the interview.

Now I'm giving away Raising Rain by Debbie Fuller Thomas!

To enter for a chance to win a copy of this book simply post a comment about the power of forgiveness. Have you seen it dramatically change someone else's life? What about your own? Say anything you want as long as it pertains to the topic of forgiveness. I'll pick a random winner from commenters next Sunday! Have a great Valentine's Day everyone!

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.

Buy it! Raising Rain.

My thoughts:

I haven't finished this story but what I did read I really enjoyed and I do plan to post a review on it when I get a little more unburied!

My review of Meander Scar by Lisa J. Lickel

About the book:

Love can heal even the deepest scars …

After seven years with no clue as to the whereabouts of Ann Ballard’s missing husband, nearly everyone presumes him dead. Now forty-something, Ann is ready for her stagnant life to flow again. Then one day, a dark-haired younger man from her past shows up on her doorstep offering a river of hope in place of tears.

Former neighbor Mark Roth has secretly loved Ann for years. A respected attorney, he’s returned home to help Ann face down disapproving family members and the legal maneuvering of her likely deceased husband’s family—while quietly winning her heart.

When the hidden truth of Ann’s situation turns their lives on end and another tragedy strikes, the two must come to terms with family, faith and the depths to which true love can run.

My review:

I loved this story because it was SO not formulaic even though it was very romantic. I saw it more as a love story because it was tragic and beautiful and breathtaking all at once. In fact, Meander Scar was so unique--as were the issues the couple dealt with--that it made the story that much more compelling to me. I found the conflict very emotionally moving in several places as the heroine dealt with seemingly impossible situations. The hero was incredibly heroic and I loved him from the beginning. And the heat between them...wow! I had difficulty putting this book down because the tension kept building and there was also a cool "mystery" type subplot regarding the missing husband that kept the pace moving along. In short, this novel not only tugs at your heart, but it sizzles on the page. I highly recommend this story for romance lovers who get tired of the same-old, same-old romantic themes.

Meander Scar was published by Black Lyon and released in February 2010.

My review of Thin Places: A Memoir by Mary DeMuth

Synopsis:

In her moving spiritual memoir, Mary DeMuth reflects on the “thin places” of her life—places where she was acutely aware of God’s presence. Through her own story, DeMuth invites you to discover new ways to experience a God who is ready to break through any ordinary day or extraordinary pain and offer you a glimpse of eternity.

My review:

Thin Places is raw and real. I have worked with sexually abused children for two decades and have come across one particular phenomenon that I've always been fascinated with. Mary called it "The Mark". I used to say...it's like they have an invisible mark on their forehead that only abusers see and it tells them the child has been hurt before thus giving the perverts the notion they can do it again. This chapter was very well stated. Also, the inability to trust and the self-absorption and perfectionist tendencies that dominate where if things don't go as planned victims often fall apart emotionally. I've seen this over an over along with adults who were child victims worrying that they won't love their kids enough or will somehow screw them up, too. Dealing with the issues through counseling and faith (as well as writing it down) can help tremendously. I also enjoyed the experiences the author shared about the various religious experiences she had from scams to the real thing. I have seen similar situations in my life and others' and I enjoyed the way the author brought the information out in the memoir using such a child-like view. Thin Places was an incredibly brave book and I'm glad that the author took the time to share her story and laid it out there for God to use. I'm certain He will.

Thin Places was published by Zondervan and released in February 2010.

Walking on Broken Glass by Christa Allen is up on CFBA!

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Walking on Broken Glass

Abingdon Press (February 2010)

by

Christa Allan

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Christa Allan, a true Southern woman who knows any cook worth her gumbo always starts with a roux and who never wears white after Labor Day, weaves stories of unscripted grace with threads of hope, humor, and heart.

The mother of five and grandmother of three, Christa teaches high school English. She and her husband, Ken live in Abita Springs, Louisiana where they play golf, dodge hurricanes, and anticipate retirement.




ABOUT THE BOOK

Leah Thornton's life, like her Southern Living home, has great curb appeal. But already sloshed from one-too-many drinks at a faculty party, Leah cruises the supermarket aisles in search of something tasty to enhance her Starbucks—Kahlua and a paralyzing encounter with a can of frozen apple juice shatters the facade, forcing her to admit that all is not as it appears.

When her best friend Molly gets in Leah's face about her refusal to deal with her life, Leah is forced to make a decision. Can this brand-conscious socialite walk away from the country club into 28 days of rehab? Leah is sitting in the office of the local rehab center facing an admissions counselor who fails to understand the most basic things, like the fact that apple juice is not a suitable cocktail mixer.

Rehab is no picnic, and being forced to experience and deal with the reality of her life isn’t Leah’s idea of fun. Can she leave what she has now to gain back what she needs? Joy, sadness, pain and a new srength converge, testing her marriage, her friendships and her faith.

But through the battle she finds a reservoir of courage she never knew she had, and the loving arms of a God she never quite believed existed.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Walking on Broken Glass, go HERE

My thoughts:

Now this is MY kind of book. It's real, it's edgy, and it's compelling. I should also mention the writing is beautiful and flows well. I am really loving it. I just wish I didn't have to work or I would've finished it by now! I hope to have a review posted very soon!

Dreams that Won't Let Go by Stacy Hawkins Adams blog tour stop and book review!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Donna Hausler, Publicity Assistant dhausler@BakerPublishingGroup.com

ESSENCE BESTSELLING AUTHOR RELEASES NEW BOOK:

Sometimes you have to come home to discover who you are…

Essence bestselling author Stacy Hawkins Adams releases the final book in her popular Jubilant Soul series: Dreams That Won’t Let Go.

Readers have followed along with the Burns family of Jubilant, Texas as they’ve experienced heartaches, celebrated new faced life-changing choices and learned how far faith can carry them through it all.

Now in Dreams That Won’t Let Go, everything seems to be going along perfectly for Indigo Burns: Her wedding preparations to the man of her dreams are under way and her career as a photographer is a success. Even her family seems to be doing better than ever—all except her brother Reuben who no one has seen in years. But that's about to change, because Reuben has decided to move back home to Jubilant, bringing with him all his unspoken secrets and upsetting all of Indigo’s best-laid plans.

As the family struggles to deal with the pain of the past and find healing, Dreams That Won’t Let Go illustrates that despite what has happened in our lives, there is always a second chance where love conquers all.

Stacy Hawkins Adams is a writer for the Richmond Times-Dispatch and the author of several novels, including the Essence bestseller The Someday List and Worth a Thousand Words. All of Stacy's novels have been bestsellers in Black Expressions Book Club.

For more information, visit www.RevellBooks.com.

*Dreams That Won't Let Go by Stacy Hawkins Adams was provided by Revell for me to review for this tour. Here is my review...

My review:

This third book in Stacy's series can't be the end. I don't want it to be. I want to read more about the families in Jubilant, and the stories the characters have to tell. Dreams that Won't Let Go continues the story of Reuben and his young family's arrival back into the lives of his siblings and the grandparents who raised them. There is more than a little bit of resentment on his sisters' parts when he gets all the attention, though he never asked for it. Yasmin wants to start modeling again and causes her own drama within the family that shakes them up, yet brings them together at the same time. And Indigo is trying to plan a wedding but nobody seems to be paying attention.

My favorite character in this book was Reuben's wife, who happens to be visually impaired. She really touched my heart because I know people like her. They present as competent and in control and yet there is a vulnerable side to all women, even competent ones. I thought it was sweet that he saw her need for him. That was a moving scene when she woke and he wasn't there. Reuben was a good guy and a great husband to her. I loved how she touched all of his family and helped bridge the gap between them with her assured and loving ways. I also liked how the pastor was brought into the family circle to help them all heal. That shows a great example of how the church can be effective when people need help and the pastor is truly there for them. Overall, I enjoyed this book, but I have to say my favorite in the series was the second book, Worth a Thousand Words. But any book Stacy writes is a good story. She has a unique writing style and voice that always holds my attention.

The Yummiest Kiss Contest on the Edgy Inspirational Author blog...Win a free book!

Borrowing on several other blogs' concepts (thank you to Abi and others) I have decided to do a contest of my own blog here with different rules and a description that varies according to my blog's theme.

What is the prize you ask? You can win one copy of any of the books I have available right now. They are It's Not About Me, It's Not About Him, or my edgier e-books Danger at the Door and First Impressions...(e-books are open worldwide, but trade paperbacks to US and Canada only. Sorry y'all, but I ain't rich despite what people think of authors and their pay.

Here is how I will pick the winner. The person who writes the best kiss wins their choice of one of my books. Post no more than a page or two, please. Who will be the judge? Me. And you know I love edgy. Anything goes as long as there are no disgusting words or salacious implications. In other words, edgy is good but nasty is not. :)

That said, I will share a yummy kissing scene from each of my books. So in total you will get four yummy kisses to read. These are real, published scenes. I will post the page they are on as well as the book title so you will get four yummy examples of what I am looking for. (Ironically, two of my kissing scenes involve ice cream. Hmmm... is there a theme here?) Then you tell me which scene is your favorite. Then post your own. That's it.

So again... read my kissing scenes and tell me which one you like best and why, then write your own (can be published already or written on the spot.) One entry per writer please. Easy peasy, right? If you post about this contest and refer friends (and say so in your comment) I'll give you an extra entry. I'll choose a winner on Valentine's Day.

So what are you waiting for? Come on, read my heady kissing scenes and then impress me with your stuff!

**** so here is my stunning example from my first book, It's Not About Me, from pages 162-163.

An unmistakable look of longing came into his eyes. It made her skin tingle. She had the distinct impression he wanted to kiss her.

She moved closer and lifted another chunk of frozen banana from his shirt. Holding it in front of his lips, she whispered, “Want a taste?”

As though hypnotized, he opened his mouth, and she popped the morsel in. When he closed his lips and slowly licked them, she followed her impulse and stood on tiptoe, cupping his face with her hands.

She wanted to be his first kiss. God help her, but she couldn’t stand it anymore. She needed to know if the chemistry she felt between them was real.

He gazed back at her, looking startled at first. Then his eyes darkened, but he didn’t move.

Overwhelmed by his scent, his closeness, the need to know what it would be like to kiss him, she leaned into his broad chest. Time froze. She brushed her lips against his mouth, terrified he’d pull away, somehow sensing he wouldn’t.

He didn’t kiss her back at first. Hesitating, she pulled back slightly to gaze deep into his eyes. In their depths she found the same hunger that burned in her heart.

She closed her eyes, her lips seeking his, savored the taste of him as she found his upper lip. Sliding her mouth across his, she tugged on his lower lip, silently teasing his senses, aching for his love.

She sensed that something profound had awakened inside him. With a moan, she kissed him deeply until he responded with like passion. His sudden fervor surprised her, yet pleased her beyond anything she’d imagined.

As she reveled in his kisses, the strength of his arms around her gave her a rush like no other. Passion exuded from him as his mouth met hers kiss for kiss. The unspoken longing that released in their embrace was so intense she thought for certain they’d burst into flame.

****How as that for Yummy, eh? Here is one from It's Not About Him, from pages 104-106.

Stepping back to get a better look at him, Susie met his gaze. Her eyes grew heavy as the masculine scent of him intoxicated her like a drug. She wanted to kiss him and tell him how much she missed him, but her body felt stiff, frozen in place. She could only move her eyes, which were now straying to his lips.

Without saying a word, he wove his fingers into the hair at the nape of her neck. “I’ve really, really missed you,” he whispered.

His gaze lingered on her eyes, her mouth. Straying back and forth. But he held back, as if assessing her reaction before he made a move.

Against her wishes her throat tightened, and again her eyes filled with tears. She struggled to say something meaningful, but all she could do was swallow repeatedly.

When she found her voice, she murmured, “I have a confession to make.”

Her heart flipped at the intense look in his eyes. A lazy smile spread across his handsome face, and his hazel eyes flashed with amusement before darkening.

“Tell me. I’m listening.”

She cringed, averting her gaze. “I lied to you. I’m . . . sorry.” Peering at him through her bangs, she anticipated anger, but found none.

His brow crinkled, and a nervous grin replaced his confident one. “You lied to me? What are you talking about?”

“About your kiss. When I told you that. I didn’t mean what I said.”

Touching her chin, he tilted her face up to meet his gaze. “You didn’t mean what?”

Her pulsed pounded so hard she heard its flow echoing in her ears. “I didn’t mean it when I said . . . ”

His eyes softened further. His voice a throaty whisper, he said, “You lied?”

“Yeah.” She cast her gaze down.

“If you lied, that means you enjoyed it, right?”

She nibbled on her lower lip. “Yeah, I did.”

The tone of his voice deepened. “A lot or a little?”

A bubble of joy bounced around in her stomach and threatened to pop. Jeff hadn’t pushed her away or laughed at her.

With a low chuckle, she responded, “A lot.”

Jeff eased closer. “Mmm. Me too.”

He brushed his warm lips against hers once, then twice.

Curving her arms around his neck, Susie pulled him closer and melted against him, the intensity of his kiss turning her knees
to mush.

“Susie . . . I need you. I want to be with you so much.”

God help her, but she wanted him too. Last year she would’ve laughed if anyone had even suggested that someday she’d have feelings for Jeff. And now seeing him was all she thought about. How quickly things changed.

Once again, he dipped his head and tasted her lips slowly, with an agonizing tenderness that made her forget the extra weight she carried. For a moment she allowed her heart to feel the intense joy welling up inside. To know he wanted her was a heady feeling.


****Now for a scene from Danger at the Door, page 75.

Her nerves tensed when she realized he would be leaving any minute. She didn’t want to see him go. Glancing up, she captured his gaze and licked her lips.

His eyes traveled to her mouth. That stupid habit was going to get her in big trouble one of these days. But she couldn’t help it. The tension in her body caused that automatic response.

"You want bakni before I go?" The soft sound of his voice made her knees weak.

What does a girl say to an offer like that? No? She’d be a fool to turn him down. So instead, she nodded, her eyes never leaving his.

Everything transpired in slow motion as he stepped closer. She could hear the sound of his erratic breathing and held her breath. His lips hovered and met hers in a tentative manner at first. Then he draped his arms around her as he angled his head to caress her lips more fully. He secured the back of her head with one hand as he suckled her, engaging one lip at a time, and exploring her mouth with abandon. The desperate, husky moans emitting from low in his throat made her body hum. His tongue slid against hers in an intimate dance and her body pulsed as she pressed against him. She wanted more, needed more. It didn’t matter that they hadn’t known each other very long. She yearned for intimacy.

To experience things with him she had no business desiring. Not yet.

When he pulled away, an intense, bereft void filled that place, making her throat tighten. She couldn’t say what she really felt. What she wanted to do was beg to go with him. Worse, to make love to him so he wouldn’t forget her.

But that would be too needy, and she realized he wouldn’t want her to come with him. His business was personal, and she had no part in it. The thought saddened her.

"Ah, Laney, your lips are sweet like med. Your eyes remind me of blue lake near hometown. So deep and wonderful." He touched her cheek. "But we must wait.”

She swallowed hard and bit her lip. He was right, of course, but it didn’t make the desire pulsing in her go away. Her body throbbed, and oh, it was a heady feeling.

"I call you soon. I must go now." His large fingers stroked the side of her head, tracing her cheek, her jaw, until his hand touched her chin and slowly slipped away.

She sensed his eyes on her and she nodded, refusing to look at him for fear she’d get tearful again. A sob crept up her throat, and she squelched the pain.

The door clicked shut. She leaned against the frame and sucked in a breath as she tried to keep her tears at bay. "God, help me. The way I feel… This can’t be right."

Trust me. And wait.

****And last, from First Impressions, pages 47-48.

She glanced away, nibbled on the corner of her mouth, and nodded.

"Good. I want you to know you can always trust me, okay?" As he turned her face toward him again, he peered deep into her eyes. He suddenly felt emotionally naked. Exposed. He was sharing his heart with her, and yet he sensed that she wasn't ready to share her heart yet. Not with anyone. That made him indescribably sad.

She laughed nervously and announced, "I don't feel like eating anymore, but my empty stomach still hurts."

His appetite had waned, too. "How about ice cream? It's always good for the soul."

"Now there's a man after my own heart."

Jimmy smiled as warmly as he could and tried to think positively. Things were improving and he didn't want to lose the momentum. He pulled a half-gallon of chocolate chip ice cream out of the freezer and set out two dishes. He sensed her watching him as he filled the bowls and returned the carton to the freezer.

"What do you want to talk about?"

"Let me think." She took a bite of her ice cream and offered him a spoonful.

He grinned and opened his mouth.

She slid the ice cream inside with her spoon. The look on her face was incredibly sensual.

"Yummy, huh?"

He nodded.

She smiled shyly and handed him her spoon. "Feed me now?"

Suppressing a delighted moan, he slid a bite of ice cream into her mouth and waited for her response. The game they were playing was getting him hot enough to squirm. It didn't help that they were alone in his kitchen. It would be so easy to take things further if they didn't slow things down…

Licking her lips as she watched him, she then closed her eyes and swallowed.

That action was all he needed to push him over the edge. He needed to taste her again or he'd go mad just thinking about doing it. Setting his bowl on the counter, he gently grabbed her arms and lowered his mouth to hers. She responded more fervently than he'd anticipated as their cool, sweet tongues engaged. The sensual kiss made his head swim with pleasure.

He moaned. Everything in him tensed and heated as they explored each other like two hungry singles deprived of affection for far too long. He sensed her arm moving and wondered what she intended to do with her hand. He was eager to find out and made a move of his own.

A crash made him jump back.

"Oops. I missed the counter." She giggled.

He sucked in a deep breath. What was he doing kissing her like that? Things were getting way too hot for a weak man like him to be engaged in. In fact, he'd been so into the heat of the moment that everything melted away but the sensation of her mouth on his and his desire to overwhelm her with himself. All thoughts of God and his plans to remain pure had vanished. He had wanted her so much it scared him.

He shook off the thoughts and shifted his attention to the spill. God needed to help him get his self-control back.

"Not a problem. I'll get you another bowl." Glad for the diversion, he quickly cleaned up the mess and dished her up another dessert.

"Now, where were we…?" He popped a spoonful of ice cream into his mouth and tried to suppress a delighted smile as he thought about that awesome kiss. He needed to keep his thoughts pure. Being around her made that tough.

"Sure you want to go there again, mister?"

"I'm fighting it." He swallowed hard. Truth was he wasn't fighting much at all.

She laughed and winked at him. "Maybe we better go outside."

My review of Anything But Normal by Melody Carlson

About the book:

Sophie is starting a new school year. Shopping for it with her best friend should be fun, but nothing seems to fit, which is a major issue to a high school girl. But her biggest problem is the secret she's keeping. And she's about to find out that she won't be able to keep things under wraps for much longer. This page-turning novel explores the tangled web of choices, secrets, and love that all teen girls navigate.

From the Back Cover:

She thought she'd left the summer behind . . . This year should be the best of Sophie Ramsay's life. She's friends with all the right people, she's a shoo-in for editor of the school newspaper, and she's managed to turn the head of one of the hottest guys in school. But something's not quite right. Sophie has a secret--one she won't be able to keep under wraps for much longer.

My Review:

This story tackles a tough subject. Anything But Normal is an excellent illustration of how one mistake can shred someone's future plans, or at least alter them in a major way. I really enjoyed this story. As a social worker I've come across similar situations and this story reflects scenarios that some of the teens I have worked with have experienced. Young people have a lapse in judgment one time and their world is jacked up for years to come. It's true with many young women that once they've fallen they don't see the point of trying to stay pure anymore. They feel ruined for life and nothing fixes that. Confessing brings forgiveness but the consequences remain. And often it wasn't something the girl wanted to begin with. It was the guy's idea.

I thought the author did a great job with the guilt she experienced, with her wanting to hide the evidence, her fear of people finding out, etc. And best of all, the author did a great job showing the issues surrounding people who are not showing Christ's love and forgiveness. That was well done. People don't realize how self-righteous they sound when they spout off about things they really don't understand. This story is about compassion and the need for more of it. It's also about not shooting the wounded when they are down. I really understood Sophie and her many issues. I adored Wes. He was such a great guy. And Dylan was pretty much what I expected. Unfortunately his response is all too common in scenarios that I've seen. I loved how the Pastor got involved in the end and how Sophie went to the church for help. That was a great example of how things should work when people are hurting and need support. While the story didn't make me cry like I expected, it definitely touched my heart and I'm sure it will do the same for many young women who need to hear the message.

Anything But Normal was published by Revell and released in January 2010.