The Discovery by Dan Walsh

In his latest book The Discovery, Dan Walsh has tackled a new challenge -- writing a story that combines contemporary and World War II. I love how this book plays on literary themes but is so much more. What would it be like to have your life suddenly changed by a lavish inheritance? What would it be like to have the opportunity to make your dreams come true? What would you give to make that happen? 


Michael wrestles with these issues as he reads his grandfather's final book -- an unpublished one left for him to find. Does it contain the answer to the questions no one can answer? Or is it just another novel from an award-winning thriller writer? 


This book continues Dan's engaging style and is smooth read that tugs at heart strings in a manner reminiscent of Nicholas Sparks. While I would have loved more time seeing Michael's story develop, Dan did a nice job balancing the two story-lines and time periods. I have found recently that I really enjoy stories that have two time threads that intersect and diverge. If you haven't tried Dan's books yet, this is a great place to start. 


More about the book: Gerard Warner was not only a literary giant whose suspense novels sold in the millions, he was also a man devoted to his family, especially his wife of nearly 60 years. When he dies he leaves his Charleston estate to his grandson, Michael, an aspiring writer himself. Michael settles in to write his own first novel and discovers an unpublished manuscript his grandfather had written, something he'd kept hidden from everyone but clearly intended Michael to find. Michael begins to read an exciting tale about Nazi spies and sabotage, but something about this story is different from all of Gerard Warner's other books. It's actually a love story. As Michael delves deeper into the story he discovers something that has the power to change not only his future but his past as well.


The book was provided by the publisher, but the opinions are entirely mine. 

Three Posts on Homeschooling Worth Reading

Just the other night I discovered a new to me blog thanks to my friend Jennifer Mull. She's a homeschooling mom of eight that I go to church with and I love bouncing by her facebook page because I never know what kind of links she'll have up there. Often they get me thinking. Don't you love friends like that?

So Wednesday she posted a link to an article on Simple Homeschooling. The article was titled I want to Homeschool, but I don't want the Responsibility. Ouch! I think we can all admit we know homeschoolers who do a fantastic job. We know others that we don't quite understand how they do it, but it seems to work. And then there are others that probably don't want the responsibility. This article made me step back and reexamine how I'm doing. Always a good thing...especially when my kids' futures are at stake.

The Irish Healer Review

The Irish Healer is the debut book by author Nancy Herriman...and what a debut! I took a chance on this book honestly because it was an advanced reader copy so I could read it while I train for the mini-marathon on the treadmill. I am so glad I did!

This book is set in Regency England -- but with a twist. Rachel Dunne has to flee Ireland after she is accused of murdering a patient under her care. Then she is hired in London to help a doctor who is giving up practice because he is tired of not being able to help the patients who come to him for help. Then cholera comes to London and both are thrust into situations they don't want.

This story is gripping. I'm not a huge reader of Regency novels except for Julie Klassen. This author does such a great job creating compelling characters with pasts that put their dreams for the future at risk that I can't wait to read the next book from Nancy Herriman. If you're looking for a book that will sweep you back to the days of Jane Austen, then I heartily recommend this story.

You can download the first chapter here.  The ARC was provided by the publisher, but the opinions are mine.

Rejoicing in New Life

This weekend we celebrated the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. I love how God time this reminder of new birth in a season that is awash with newness.

Because of our early spring in March, I can't drive around town without seeing an abundance of reminders that life is new. From daffodils to tulips to the rich, green grass, the reminders are everywhere if I'll just open my eyes to look.

I don't know about you, but there are times I need that reminder. Sometimes I get bogged down looking at the areas in my life that never seem to change. The struggles I can't seem to overcome. But the reminder that one reason Jesus came and died was to give us victory over those areas. That there is the promise of new life in all areas of my life. Even the ones I despair of changing. Thank you, Lord, for that promise and the constant reminders!

The 13th Tribe by Robert Liparulo

This week, the  Christian Fiction Blog Alliance  is introducing  The 13th Tribe  Thomas Nelson (April 3, 2012)  by  Robert Liparulo  
This book is fascinating. Built on an intriguing idea. What if God decided to punish a handful of the Israelites who participated in the Golden Calf fiasco by giving them immortality? And what if they spent the rest of eternity trying to earn their way back to God? This book has the excellent writing I expect from a Robert Liparulo book...but even more it has a concept that engaged me from the first page and drew me from page to page. Great idea and great execution!

I hope to have Robert here soon so you can learn more about him and his vision for this book.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Best-selling novelist Robert Liparulo is a former journalist, with over a thousand articles and multiple writing awards to his name. His first three critically acclaimed thrillers—Comes a Horseman, Germ, and Deadfall—were optioned by Hollywood producers, as well as his Dreamhouse Kings series for young adults. Bestselling author Ted Dekker calls The 13th Tribe, released in April 2012, “a phenomenal story.” Liparulo is currently working with director Andrew Davis (The Fugitive, The Guardian) on the novel and screenplay of a political thriller. New York Times best-selling author Steve Berry calls Liparulo’s writing “Inventive, suspenseful, and highly entertaining . . . Robert Liparulo is a storyteller, pure and simple.” Liparulo lives in Colorado with his family.


Visit Robert Liparulo's Facebook Fan page: http://www.facebook.com/LiparuloFans, or at Twitter @robertliparulo.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Their story didn't start this year . . . or even this millennium.

It began when Moses was on Mt. Sinai. Tired of waiting on the One True God, the twelve tribes of Israel began worshipping a golden calf through pagan revelry. Many received immediate death for their idolatry, but 40 were handed a far worse punishment-endless life on earth with no chance to see the face of God.

This group of immortals became the 13th Tribe, and they've been trying to earn their way into heaven ever since-by killing sinners. Though their logic is twisted, their brilliance is undeniable. Their wrath is unstoppable. And the technology they possess is beyond anything mere humans have ever seen.

Jagger Baird knows nothing about the Tribe when he's hired as head of security for an archaeological dig on Mt. Sinai. The former Army Ranger is still reeling from an accident that claimed the life of his best friend, his arm, and his faith in God.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The 13th Tribe, go HERE.

Want a copy of A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island?

Good morning! With the release of A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island a couple days ago, I’m going to be on lots of blogs in the next couple weeks. Right now there are three chances to win Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island:

Melissa Tagg is hosting me at her blog.
Trish Perry is hosting me at her blog.
Melissa Finnegan hosted me over at her blog, too.

And I’m really excited that one of the great Mackinac Island blogs talked about me yesterday. Bree posts great photos of the island and yesterday's post had such beautiful photos I can't wait to return!

So come play at these blogs!


I'd love to know where you love to escape. I'm always looking for a new setting for a book. Leave a comment here and if we reach 15 comments, I'll add another book to the mix. Facebook or twitter this post and let me know in the comments and I'll add you again. Follow the blog and let me know and I'll add another entry. Let's have fun.

Cooking the Books CFBA Tour

This week, the  Christian Fiction Blog Alliance  is introducing  Cooking The Books  Abingdon Press (April 2012)  by  Bonnie S. Calhoun  
Because of when I received this book, I haven't had a chance to finish it yet. What I can tell you is that the author does a great job of creating a main character who is sassy, witty, and has hints of brokeness. I can't wait to get deeper into the story and see what makes Sloane tick and how she'll hang on to her bookstore. Sloane strikes me as the kind of character who is worth rooting for -- and with her sense of humor and bumbling style a fun one to read about.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

As the Owner/Director of the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance Bonnie has helped use the 220+ blogs of the Alliance to promote many titles on the Christian bestseller list. She also owns and publishes the Christian Fiction Online magazine which is devoted to readers and writers of Christian fiction. She is the Northeast Zone Director for American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). At ACFW she was named the ‘Mentor of the Year,’ for 2011, and she is the current President of (CAN) Christian Authors Network. Bonnie is also the Appointment Coordinator for both the Colorado Christian Writers Conference and the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference.


In her spare time she is an avid social media junkie, and teaches Facebook, Twitter, Blogging and HTML as recreational occupations. She also has a novel coming out in the Abingdon Quilts of Love series. Her novel Pieces of the Heart will publish August of 2013.

Bonnie and her husband Bob live in a log cabin on 15 acres in upstate area of Binghamton, New York with a dog and cat who consider the humans as wait-staff.


ABOUT THE BOOK

After her mother dies from a heart attack, Sloane Templeton goes from Cyber Crimes Unit to bookstore owner before she can blink. She also "inherits" a half-batty store manager; a strange bunch of little old people from the neighborhood who meet at the store once a week, but never read books, called the Granny Oakleys Book Club; and Aunt Verline, who fancies herself an Iron Chef when in reality you need a cast iron stomach to partake of her culinary disasters. And with a group like this you should never ask, “What else can go wrong?”


A lot! Sloane begins to receive cyber threats. While Sloane uses her computer forensic skills to uncover the source of the threats, it is discovered someone is out to kill her. Can her life get more crazy?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Cooking The Books, go HERE.

Watch the book video:



If you'd like to read interviews with Bonnie, try these:
Everbody Needs A Little Romance
A Christian Writers World
Novel Rocket
ACFW - Fiction Finder

Interview with Cheryl McKay and giveaway!!!!

Today I'm delighted to introduce you to an author. While I've never met Cheryl McKay, I feel like I got to know her well through her delightful novel Never the Bride, co-authored with Rene Gutteridge. This is a novel that I believe every single woman should read. I invited Cheryl here because I thought you'd be blessed by her story...and it would give you a chance to learn about her new book. Be sure to read to the end to learn how you might receive a copy of the book, Finally the Bride. 


Cheryl, it’s a delight to have you join me. I LOVED your novel Never the Bride. How has this new book grown out of that story?


Thank you. I’m so glad you loved Neverthe Bride. 

In Finally the Bride: Finding Hope While Waiting, I wanted to share, in non-fiction form, my personal angst as a single person. It gave me lots of great comedy material for the story of Never the Bride (co-written with Rene Gutteridge). But I also wanted to be more forthcoming with a similar message the novel has about how God cares about our love lives. While we were working on that novelization, I felt strongly I was to write a non-fiction companion book, especially penning it while I was still single. I needed to write it from a place of pain, not “after the fact” when I had moved on, gotten married, and my wait was no longer present (a wait that admittedly was driving me a bit crazy at times). So, I wrote it concurrently, except the final few chapters. I had to wait to finish the book, to see how God was going to pay off my true-life story. Little did I know how much it would match what God does in Never the Bride!

The Chase Review

This is probably one of my favorite books of DiAnn's. I loved the writer who's following a dream being paired with a FBI agent who is a loner and willing to do whatever it takes to keep Houston safe. Kariss Walker is compelled to dig ever deeper when children are involved. Because of an event in her past, she can't let go and is determined to write a book based on an unidentified girl who starved to death and was abandoned. Tigo Harris is neck deep in a gun smuggling undercover operation and doesn't have time to babysit a writer, but his boss doesn't care. This is the first of hopefully many cases the Kariss and Tigo will tackle. If you adore romantic suspense with an emphasis on the romance, you will find plenty in this book to keep you involved. And for those of us who love the suspense/puzzle side, there's a lot to pull us in.

I received this book to review from the publisher. The opinions are mine alone.

Sixty Acres and a Bride Review

In Sixty Acres and a Bride, the author weaves a tale that breathes new life into the Biblical story of Ruth and Naomi. Set in Texas, Rosa Garner follows her mother-in-law to the old family ranch. Time and taxes threaten to steal it from them. Rosa tries so hard to follow all the rules that confront her that are so different from those she's used to in her native Mexico. Yet every turn and effort seems to disappoint when all she wants to do is please. The story will satisfy readers who love a historical rich in detail and layered with a strong spiritual thread.   


Here's more about the story: 


With nothing to their names, young widow Rosa Garner and her mother-in-law return to Texas and the family ranch. Only now the county is demanding back taxes and the women have only three months to pay. 

Though facing eviction, Rosa can't keep herself from falling in love with the countryside and the wonderful extended family who want only her best. Learning the American customs is not easy, however, and this beautiful young widow can't help but catch wandering eyes. Where some offer help with dangerous strings attached, only one man seems honorable. But when Weston Garner, still grieving his own lost love, is unprepared to give his heart, to what lengths will Rosa go to save her future?

Let's have some fun!

I saw this on Melissa Tagg's blog and had to steal it.  If you want to play along, the rules of being tagged are simple: answer the questions provided and then tag 11 others. 

1. Book or movie and why?

I adore books, but I also LOVE classic movies (Melissa and I agree on this). My definition of classic primarily means the black and white ones. See my sidebar for examples of my favorites.

2. Real book or e-book?

Real book. I still haven't fallen in love with ebooks. I know that will likely change, but there's still something magical about holding a physical book.

3. Funniest thing you’ve done in the past 5 years?

Five years? Can I just claim that I'm not very funny?

4. How would your best friend describe you?

Wonder woman. Seriously! They claim they're looking for my bracelets. I could not make that up. Remember? I'm not funny!

88 Great Daddy-Daughter Dates

My birthday is almost here and one of the best gifts I've given myself is a husband who loves our children deeply and well. Still, there's always a tension in trying to find ways to build meaningful memories with them. Just last week we took advantage of unseasonably warm weather to have a picnic at a state park ... in the middle of the week ... because we need that time to build the memories we'll talk about in twenty years.

As a college student, some of my best memories are of those times my dad came to town and took me to dinner or a movie. I loved being his date. That worked because he'd spent my lifetime building that relationship that still makes me daddy's girl. 

Sometimes it's not easy coming up with ideas. This book is filled with simple dates that don't take much preparation and many don't require much money either. The focus is on spending time together -- father and daughter. Some involve new experiences like ice skating. Others focus on outdoors activities or on cooking and crafting together. The heart of each is spending time with your young girls, so that when they are teens and young adults they'll still value you. 

This book would make a great Father's Day gift!

CFBA Tour: Missing

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Missing Avon Inspire; Original edition (March 20, 2012) by Shelley Shepard Gray

I really enjoyed this book. It's the first in a series so some threads are left for another book, but I enjoyed following Lydia and Walker's stories. And I can't wait to return to Crittendon County for the next installment. The pacing is good, the characterization intriguing, and the book one that will go on my keeper shelf. This is the first book of Shelley's that I've read, but it won't be the last.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Since 2000, Shelley Sabga has sold over thirty novels to numerous publishers, including HarperCollins, Harlequin, Abingdon Press, and Avon Inspire. She has been interviewed by NPR, and her books have been highlighted in numerous publications, including USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.

Under the name Shelley Shepard Gray, Shelley writes Amish romances for HarperCollins’ inspirational line, Avon Inspire. Her recent novel, The Protector, the final book in her “Families of Honor” series, hit the New York Times List, and her previous novel in the same series, The Survivor, appeared on the USA Today bestseller list. Shelley has won the prestigious Holt Medallion for her books, Forgiven and Grace, and her novels have been chosen as Alternate Selections for the Doubleday/Literary Guild Book Club. Her first novel with Avon Inspire, Hidden, was an Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.

3 Things to do on Mackinac Island

My family and I adore Mackinac Island. We've made two trips there and hope to head back up there in July for a booksigning.

With A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island releasing April 1st, my thoughts keep wandering back to Mackinac and why we like it. Maybe you've heard of the island. Maybe you're planning a trip there yourselves. Either way, here are a few things we love to do on the island.

1) The first is to slow down and relax. There's something peaceful about a place that has no cars. Instead, you hear the steady clop-clop of horses hooves and the ring of bike bells.

2) We love to rent bikes and take at least one ride around the island. It's about eight miles so takes around an hour. Most of the bike shops rent burley carts or bikes with an add on for younger kids. It makes for a very relaxing afternoon. And you can stop and take photos or dip your toes in the lake as often as you like.

3) We enjoy stopping in all the little shops. From fudge to unique restaurants to your typical shops selling t-shirts, it's fun to stop in places you don't find in your local downtown.

So if you're ready to step back in time to a place that has held on to a slower pace of life, then consider slipping away to Mackinac Island. I think you'll enjoy it!

Monday Meditation: Are we willing to follow?

View of one of Mackinac Island's churches

Yesterday our church dedicated its new building. But really we dedicated ourselves to the on-going service of the Lord.

We had the opportunity to examine where we are, where we want to go, and the idea that this is only one more step toward a new beginning.

God is like that. Always moving to a new place. And asking us if we are willing to move with Him.

Are you ever tempted to tell Him no? Thank you very much, but you're quite comfortable where you are and what you're doing? That if where God moved you was good enough last year, five years ago, twenty years ago, then you are quite certain that this must be where He has you for the next twenty years?

Isn't that like us? To become comfortable and not want to step into what ever might be next? The road is foggy. We can't see five steps down the road let alone five years. So we decide to be safe.

I don't know about you, but I don't want safe. I want God. Where He goes, I want to follow. How about you?

Two Suspense Titles I read this week and Loved!

In case you aren't reading one of my books for spring break...umm...here are a couple of really good suspense novels I've read in the last week.

Randy Singer is one of those authors that I wish could write multiple books a year. His plots are intricate, his suspense compelling, and his characterization superb. With The Last Plea Bargain he is back and at the top of the legal thriller genre. The Last Plea Bargain is a page-turning legal thriller that spins in so many directions I couldn't walk away from the story. I loved that he brought back Jamie Brock, a character from another book. Jamie is facing the death of her father and the execution of the man who murdered her mother. The problem is that his appellate attorney is willing to do anything to get his execution stayed. The man is fully convinced that his client is innocent. Then the attorney who defended her mother's killer is accused of murdering his wife, and Jamie's put on the case. From there Singer weaves an intricate web that spins between the appellate and trial cases. The trial scenes are gripping, yet the non-legal scenes are filled with tension and underlying emotions. And each time I thought I knew with certainty where the plot was headed, he threw in a twist that kept me reading.

Singer is an absolute master -- he's crafted another compelling win with The Last Plea Bargain. I hope to see more books with Jamie...My only complaint is that he can't write faster!

When we stopped at Thomas Nelson last week on our drive back from Jekyll Island, Allen asked if I'd read any of Lis Wiehl's Triple Threat novels. I'd read one and started another, so he handed me the latest that releases next week. I read it in a day. Literally. The fourth book in the series, I found it a compelling read. Because I knew the conflict that would propel the book, I thought I'd read a few chapters and walk away. Instead, because I'd just finished another book in the series, I was easily drawn into the lives of the Triple Threat members: a crime reporter, FBI agent, and federal prosecutor. This time they're not just seeking justice but fighting for their lives. As with the other books, there are multiple points of view, but this one delved deeper into each character, allowing me to better connect with them. This book left me longing for a bit more. Yet the ending satisfied as the Triple Threat Club survived...with a twist.

3 Ways to Breath Life into Your Child's Dreams

This weekend my oldest daughter and I spent about twenty hours helping out at a gymnastics meet. Yes, you're reading that right. Twenty hours.

The competing girls were all levels 3 & 4s. For many of them it was their first state competition. And their dreams were coming true.

Kids are like that. The kids on the left are my two oldest several years ago looking through binoculars on Mackinac Island. Kids have the biggest dreams. And as a parent I want to know how to focus in on the one that will lead to success and fulfillment. So what's a parent to do?

A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island Arrives!!!!

Friday my author copies of A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island arrived! I love this story. The heroine is an attorney who's forced to return home to  help her family. In the process she's confronted with the past and a mystery. Then an old family friend is murdered. Add her first love who lives next door...and her life is complicated.

Last night I was pinning some information on Mackinac Island to my board on Pinterest. It felt almost nostalgic to return to the blogs, maps, and hotels we've stayed at. I can't wait to return later this summer for a booksigning.


My kids are excited because they love everything about the island. They love the salt water taffy and fudge. They enjoy Fort Mackinac. And we love biking around the island. It's such a peaceful place with the clop of horses' hooves and sound of bikes zipping along the road.

It's been a few months since we've been there!

Where is a place that you and your family like to visit?

Finding God in the Details

Last weekend the Putmans punched what my husband calls our crazy card. We left Thursday afternoon at 1 p.m., drove to Jekyll Island, Georgia -- a 14 hour drive for those keeping track, and arrived at 1 p.m. on Friday. Then we left Sunday night and arrived home at 1 a.m. Tuesday morning.

CRAZY!

But what you do when life is as scheduled -- dare I say over-scheduled -- as ours.

What does this to do with finding God in the details?

As we drove home late Monday night, we passed the Henryville, Indiana exit. An exit that was blocked with barricades and a state patrol car.  Trees were uprooted along the Interstate -- even with the few I could see in the dark, my heart broke again for those wiped out by the storm.

Then it hit me. We could have been in the middle of the storm. If we'd left at 1 p.m. on Friday like we'd discussed, then we would have hit southern Indiana as the storm gathered its fury. And then I wondered: how many stories like that will we hear? Moments, decisions, actions that changed outcomes. Now, in our situation, I don't think that decision was earth-shattering, but it did make our trip much smoother. We sat out tornado warnings in a comfortable house on Jekyll Island rather than dodging through the system on Friday.

Again I'm reminded that God is active in our lives. I wonder how very many times He's moving and influencing and we just don't recognize His presence. My prayer is that my eyes would be open more and more to see those intersections.

Even as I pray about how to help the communities affected by the storm. While I may not understand why things happen the way they do, I'm increasingly aware of the way God is in the details. How have you seen God move in or intersect your life lately?

Wednesday Meditation: The Value of Life

Last week, I saw this on Facebook. The thing that struck me was the way I hesitated to repost it even as I thought the image had power. Then I saw the video for the new Casting Crowns song, Just Another Birthday. Yes, the song speaks to so much more than just the value of life. Still I urge you to take a moment to watch the video. Then read the portion of Psalm 139 and thank God for crafting you and having a plan for you before you were even recognized by your earthly mom and dad.

And then ask God how you can help those who find themselves facing the challenges of the girl in the photo to the right. It's not enough to say we value life. We have to do something about it.

Psalm 139:13-16

For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed body;
all the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.

Chasing the Sun CFBA Tour

This week, the  Christian Fiction Blog Alliance  is introducing  Chasing The Sun  Bethany House Publishers (March 1, 2012)  by  Tracie Peterson  


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 85 novels.

She received her first book contract in November, 1992 and saw A Place To Belong published in February 1993 with Barbour Publishings' Heartsong Presents. She wrote exclusively with Heartsong for the next two years, receiving their readership's vote for Favorite Author of the Year for three years in a row.

In December, 1995 she signed a contract with Bethany House Publishers to co-write a series with author Judith Pella. Tracie now writes exclusively for Bethany House Publishers.

She teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research.

Tracie was awarded the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for 2007 Inspirational Fiction and her books have won numerous awards for favorite books in a variety of contests.

Making her home in Montana, this Kansas native enjoys spending time with family--especially her three grandchildren--Rainy, Fox and Max.  She's active in her church as the Director of Women's Ministries, coordinates a yearly writer's retreat for published authors, and travels, as time permits, to research her books.    


ABOUT THE BOOK

When her father disappears in war-torn Mississippi, Hannah Dandridge finds herself responsible not only for her younger siblings but for the ranch her father recently acquired on the Texas plains. Though a marriage of convenience could ease her predicament, she determines to trust God for direction.

Wounded soldier William Barnett returns to his home only to discover that his family's ranch has been seized. Though angry and bitter at this turn of events, he's surprised to discover that it is a beautiful young woman with amazing fortitude who is struggling to keep the place running.

Hannah, desperate for help, and William, desperate to regain his family's land, form an uneasy truce. But nearby Comanche tribes, the arrival of Confederate soldiers, and a persistent suitor all threaten the growing attraction that builds between them. Will they be able to set aside their own dreams and embrace the promise of a future together?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Chasing The Sun, go HERE.

This book is next on my pile to read. I haven't read many books set during the Civil War lately. Yet this one by Tracie Peterson caught my attention. Looks like an engaging read.

Blue Moon Promise Review

If you read this blog much at all, you know that Colleen Coble has been instrumental in launching my writing career. For some reason she saw something in me and has breathed life into it. 


If you love her Gilded Age historicals and you enjoy her Lonestar series, then Blue Moon Promise is for you. While I enjoy Colleen's contemporary romantic mysteries, I've decided I adore her historicals. There is a certain style that comes through as she writes stories set in times from the past that I love. This book completely fit that convergence.


Lucy Marsh has to protect her younger siblings, but after her father is killed, it becomes ever more challenging. Then a man shows up at her door claiming to be a long ago friend of her father's. He suggests she marry his son, so that she and her siblings will have  a place to live. That requires a move from Indiana to the unknown in Texas, but when they are attacked that night, she feels she has no choice. 

Heart's Safe Passage Review

In a continuation of her Midwives series, Laurie Alice Eakes is back with Heart's Safe Passage. The War of 1812 is still being waged between the United States and England, and this time the action takes place on a boat bound to England. A wife is desperate to reach England to plead for her husband's release. And the only way to get there is to take a midwife with her on a British ship during the turbulent times. As you read the book, you will be transported to that time...and gripped by the characters and their journeys.

More about the book: 

It's 1813 and all Phoebe Lee wants out of life is to practice midwifery in Loudon County, Virginia. When Belinda, her pregnant sister-in-law, presses Phoebe to accompany her onto a British privateer in order to cross the Atlantic and save her husband from an English prison, Phoebe tries to refuse, then finds herself kidnapped.

Captain Rafe Docherty is a man in search of revenge. His ship is no place for women, but he needs Belinda in order to obtain information about the man who destroyed his family and his life. Between Belinda's whining and Phoebe's hostility, Rafe can't help but wonder if he made the right choice.

When it becomes apparent there is an enemy among them on the ship, the stakes are raised. Will they reach the shores of England in time? Can love and forgiveness overcome vengeance?

Laurie Alice Eakes is the author of Lady in the Mist, A Necessary Deception, and several other novels. She won a National Readers Choice Award for Best Regency in 2007 for Family Guardian. Laurie Alice writes full-time from her home in Texas, where she lives with her husband and sundry dogs and cats.

3 Ways to Incorporate Setting into Your Story

If your a writer I'm sure you've had a moment like this...you have characters. You might even have a plot. But you're not sure where to place the story.

My mentor Colleen Coble has told me often that the setting should be so integral to the story that it is practically a character. To the point readers can't imagine the story taking place anywhere else.

Unlike some writers I often start with the setting, especially with my historicals. There will be some even in a specific location that triggers the what if that jump-starts my creativity. Here are a few ways I've learned to incorporate setting so that it grows organically into the plot:

1) If at all possible visit the location. The photo above is from Mackinac Island, the setting of my book that releases in April. A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island grew out of a visit my family made to this island at the tip of Michigan. There's something so quaint and captivating about this small island that doesn't allow cars or other vehicles that aren't propelled by something other than feet -- horse or human. Looking at photos is great, but it's not the same as actually being there and soaking in the atmosphere. Seeing the differences between the island in daylight and once the sun goes down.

2) Talk to those in the locale who will play a role in your book. When we visited Mackinac Island, I already had a general idea of the type of book I wanted to set there. While my family spent time at Fort Mackinac, I stopped at the police station and talked to the police chief. I had an idea of what would happen if a murder occurred, but he confirmed and redirected my ideas. When I was almost done writing the book, I realized that one of the characters was going to be shot. That led to a line of questions I hadn't anticipated when I was on the island, so I placed calls to the medical clinic on the island to see how a gunshot would be treated and handled. While I was 90% right, that isn't close enough.

3) Take lots of pictures and hang on to the guidebooks from the area. While writing Sandhill Dreams, I drove to Fort Robinson outside Crawford, Nebraska, to spend the day with the museum curator. It was wonderful to get his perspective and research on Fort Robinson's role during World War II, especially the dog training, but I almost forgot the most important stop...the museum bookstore. In there I found a couple of resources on the flora and fauna of Nebraska from Nebraskaland Magazine. Those resources (only $1 each) became go to books as I wrote all three of my Nebraska books and tried to incorporate variations in the locations of each. While in London at the Imperial War Museum, I found a book in the bookstore that sent my scurrying back to an exhibit that highlighted the children of World War II in London and England. That led to research that became the historical hook for A Promise Kept. Grab your camera and take lots of photos...you never know when you'll need them, but also be sure to grab the maps, phone books and fliers that will help you remember the critical details that inspired your creativity. While at the Biltmore in Ashville, North Carolina, I took photos of books in the shops, so that I could dig deeper when I got home to see if they'd actually have the information I needed.

What tips do you have for incorporating setting in your writing?

Words Spoken True Review and Giveaways

The cover is what grabbed my attention on this book. But it didn't take many pages before I was pulled into the story of a strong-willed independent woman who was trying to find her place in a world that severely constrained the opportunities available to women. Imagine 1855 Louisville. It's a time just a handful of years before the Civil War. A time when politics is heating up and cities like Louisville had several newspapers competing for the right to communicate their spin on current happenings.

A new editor is in town and the news leader is feeling the pressure -- at least his daughter is. To the point she is willing to take crazy risks to track down the person who is killing poor women on the wrong side of town. Problem is her father has agreed to an engagement for her to a man she likes but doesn't love. Then she collides with the new editor and the sparks fly even as her intended pushes her to rush forward. 

This book has touches of suspense, undertones of political scandal, and a romance that will bring you back to the book again and again. 

Today is the last day to enter the author's contest. Just click on the picture above to go to the contest. And if you leave a comment, I have a copy of the book I'd love to give away to a fellow lover of historical fiction. Just make sure you leave a way for me to reach you if you are the winner. 

Here's more about the book. Be sure to read the excerpt from chapter one here.

One woman stands ready to defend her newspaper...even if it means losing out on love.

Adriane Darcy was practically raised in her father's newspaper offices. She can't imagine life without the clatter of the press and the push to be first to write the news that matters. Their Tribune is the leading paper in Louisville in 1855. Then Blake Garrett, a brash young editor from the North with a controversial new style of reporting, takes over a failing competing paper and the battle for readers gets fierce.

When Adriane and Blake meet at a benefit tea, their surprising mutual attraction is hard to ignore. Still, Blake is the enemy, and Adriane is engaged to the son of a powerful businessman who holds the keys to theTribune's future. Blake will stop at almost nothing to get the story – and the girl. Can he do both before it's too late? Set against the volatile backdrop of political and civil unrest in 1850s Louisville, this exciting story of love and loyalty will hold readers in its grip until the very last page.

The publisher provided a copy of the book, but the opinions are mine alone. 

A Sweethaven Summer

This week, the  Christian Fiction Blog Alliance  is introducing  A Sweethaven Summer  Guidepost Books (February 7, 2012)  by  Courtney Walsh  

A Sweethaven Summer tells the story of a young woman trying to find her roots after her mother dies. I found myself pulled in to the story that melds past and present and weaves a story that's hard to put down. Even though I usually prefer books with historical or suspense settings, I will definitely read more books by Courtney Walsh. Her writing has a lyrical feel that transported me into the characters and their journeys.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Suzanne's daughter, Campbell, journeys there in search of answers to her questions about her mother's history.Suzanne's three friends-Lila, Jane, and Meghan-were torn apart by long-buried secrets and heartbreak. Though they haven't spoken in years, each has pieces of a scrapbook they made together in Sweethaven. Suzanne's letters have lured them all back to the idyllic lakeside town, where they meet Campbell and begin to remember what was so special about their long Sweethaven summers. As the scrapbook reveals secrets one by one, old wounds are mended, lives are changed, and friendships are restored-just as Suzanne intended.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Sweethaven Summer, go HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Courtney Walsh is a published author, scrapbooker, theater director, and playwright. Her debut novel, A Sweethaven Summer, will be followed by two additional novels in the series. She’s also written two papercrafting books, Scrapbooking Your Faith and The Busy Scrapper. Courtney has been a contributing editor for Memory Makers Magazine and Children’s Ministry Magazine and is a frequent contributor to Group Publishing curriculum. She works as the PR Manager for Webster’s Pages from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her husband and three kids, who range in age from 4 to 10. Courtney drinks entirely too much coffee.  


ABOUT THE BOOK

Suzanne's daughter, Campbell, journeys there in search of answers to her questions about her mother's history.Suzanne's three friends-Lila, Jane, and Meghan-were torn apart by long-buried secrets and heartbreak. Though they haven't spoken in years, each has pieces of a scrapbook they made together in Sweethaven. Suzanne's letters have lured them all back to the idyllic lakeside town, where they meet Campbell and begin to remember what was so special about their long Sweethaven summers. As the scrapbook reveals secrets one by one, old wounds are mended, lives are changed, and friendships are restored-just as Suzanne intended.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Sweethaven Summer, go HERE.

Monday Meditations: Finding God in the Pauses

In January, I received disappointing news from a publisher. It was one of those good rejections...the kind that said we'd love to work with you, but this book isn't quite right yet. Lots of great feedback -- which is so valuable. But still it was a no. A no that hurt after I'd let my heart hope that this was the right time.

Then a couple weeks ago, it looked like summer plans that we've had in the works since last fall were falling through....one of those God has to intervene or this is dead. I could see dreams spiraling toward death as I sat at my computer...stunned and if I'm honest...crying. Something I don't do. Really.

I stared at my computer screen and kept asking God what He was up to. Then I had to go to church to lead a women's Bible study -- the timing was so ironic. After that I took a walk through the neighborhood, with more questions.

Looking for a small group resource for married women?

Have you ever talked to someone who needed help learning how to build a good marriage? Someone who really struggled and you weren't sure how to help? Have you wandered bookstore aisles looking for a book that might help you become the wife you want to be, but aren't sure how to get there? Then this resource might be for you. The book focuses on helping women through small mentoring groups. The Mentor's Guide provides step by step ideas and guidance for a mentor, taking the mystery and concern out of leading a group. The Mentor's Guide provides tips on how to start a program, potential problems that could arise, how to choose mentors, and how to lead the actual groups. The Beautiful Wife book provides the curriculum. Each chapter ends with reflection questions to help women personalize what they've read. That then leads to First Steps which takes the study deeper in the Bible, prayer, and the prayer journal while also suggesting concrete examples.

If you feel called to work with married women and a burden to help them thrive in marriage, then this set of books could be a wonderful place to start.

Here's more from the publisher: 

There was a time when Sandy Ralya's marriage was in trouble. While she eventually sought guidance from godly mentors and Christian counselors, she didn't forget the fear and isolation she experienced and knew other women were feeling the same. So in 2003 Sandy started Beautiful Womanhood, a marriage mentoring ministry, to help other women know they are not alone in their struggles. Being a wife has always been a difficult role to understand. It's not a one-size-fits all formula and with that in mind, Sandy has written The Beautiful Wife o that all women can benefit from her "messy" story and her insights into the value of marriage mentorship. 

"...An incredible handbook that every woman needs. I believe this book will be life-changing for many, many women and their marriages."  -Best-selling author Shaunti Feldhahn 

"Sandy Ralya candidly shares her experiences, others' personal stories, and God's wisdom to mentor women for great marriages." -Florence Littauer, speaker and best-selling author of Personality Plus 

"Simply and honestly, Sandy speaks to the real issues that wives deal with and gives practical guidance on how to become 'beautiful' in Christ." -Dan Seaborn, author and founder of Winning at Home

{About Beautiful Womanhood}

{More about Sandy}

Sandy Ralya is the founder and director of Beautiful Womanhood, a marriage mentoring ministry based near Grand Rapids, Mich. Her marriage testimony was the focus of a popular three-day interview on FamilyLife Today, TV's Walking by Faith, and Time Out for Women. Sandy is a sought-after speaker, presenting Beautiful Womanhood seminars to hundreds of women each year at MOPS groups, women's retreats, and church leadership conferences across the country and in Canada. Sandy and her husband Tom have been married since 1980, and have a growing number of grandchildren.  www.beautifulwomanhood.com

{More about The Beautiful Wife book, Prayer Journal and Mentor's Guide}

The Beautiful Wife uses these inspiring stories along with biblical principles to guide and encourage any wife looking for God's best in her marriage. The Beautiful Wife answers serious questions women have about their roles as wives. Discussing everything from romance and money to beauty, communication, and sex, Sandy challenges women to open up and share their journeys so that together they can see God's plan for their marriages. "It is my passion to help women discover God's heart for their marriage, just as the other women helped me," writes Sandy. "When women share with each other the details of their journeys with God as wives, it's a beautiful thing indeed." The Beautiful Wife has two companion resources - Prayer Journal andMentor's Guide.

Celebrate with Sandy by entering her Kindle Touch Giveaway and coming to her "Beautiful Womanhood" Facebook Party {3/8}!

One beautiful winner will receive:

• A Brand new Kindle Touch with Wi-Fi


• The Beautiful Wife By Sandy Ralya


• The Beautiful Wife Prayer Journal and Mentor's Guide

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/7/12. Winner will be announced at Sandy's "Beautiful Womanhood" Facebook Party on 3/8. Sandy will be hosting an evening of chat, laughter and encouragement - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, prayer journals and a live chat with Sandy for your Bible study or small group!

So grab your copy of The Beautiful Wife and join Sandy and friends on the evening of March 8th for an evening of fun.

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on March 8th!

A NEW LINE OF MYSTERIES FOR YOUR E-READER

Susan Sleeman here. Do you have an e-reader or maybe an iPad? Then I'd like to tell you about a line of cozy mysteries that has recently released with most books retailing for only .99 for a limited time.

Spyglass Lane Mysteries are published by a group of cozy mystery authors who have joined together to bring you a new cozy mystery every week. Currently, there are over 25 wonderful mysteries in this line.

Stop by the website to view all of the available books and while you're there, be sure to sign up for our email newsletter where we announce each new book that releases and our authors share behind the scenes stories about the books.

I'd also like to share a little bit about my Garden Gate Mystery Series that is releasing as part of this line. The first book, Nipped in the Bud has already released and book two, Read Between the Tines will release in February 23rd. Here's a little bit about both books.