Thursday, June 25, 2015

Gone Without A Trace


Gone Without a Trace
(Logan Point, Book 3)
Patricia Bradley
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800722821
July 2015/336 pages/$14.99


The past is repeating itself--and time is running out

It's been more than two years since homicide detective Livy Reynolds's cousin disappeared from Logan Point. Unlike most people in her hometown, Livy has never believed that Robyn left voluntarily. When Dallas private investigator Alex Jennings contacts her concerning a senator's missing granddaughter who was last seen in Logan Point, Livy notices eerie similarities between the two disappearances. With self-doubt plaguing her and an almost instant dislike of the self-assured PI, she's finding this investigation an uphill battle. But with the prospect of finding her cousin on the horizon, she'll have to find a way to work with Alex--before it's too late.

Award-winning author Patricia Bradley keeps you on the edge of your seat with a case--and a relationship--that is anything but certain.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Patricia Bradley is the winner of a 2012 Daphne du Maurier Award and a 2012 Touched by Love Award and was also a finalist for the 2012 Genesis Award. The author of Shadows of the Past and A Promise to Protect, she is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. Bradley makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at www.ptbradley.com.

MY THOUGHTS

Although I missed the first book in this series, I enjoyed the second, A Promise to Protect (click the title for my review), and this one was equally as compelling. Patricia Bradley is quickly becoming a new must-read suspense author for me. Intriguing characters, fascinating plots, and heart-pounding suspense kept me glued to the pages as I tried to determine if the perpetrator was hiding in plain sight. Take this one to the beach so the sun will chase away the chills that skitter across your arms as you read! Highly recommended.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Revell, a division of Baker Books as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”



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Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Hodgepodge


A Tuesday off from work means I might have a chance to answer Joyce's Wednesday Hodgepodge questions! Come join the fun!


1. June 23rd is National Pink Day. What's your favorite something pink?

I'm not real big on pink unless it's fuchsia. My phone case is fuchsia and purple, and I like it a lot.

2. What did you enjoy most about gym class when you were in school? How about the least?

Enjoyed the most? Can't think of a single thing. I despised gym. I am so unathletic. As for the least, that might be the Presidential Physical Fitness Challenge every year in junior high. I was tall so the charts said I should have been able to do most things exceptionally well. Notsomuch. The idea of a soft ball throw, broad jump, sit-ups, and 40-yard-dash still make me shudder.

3. What memory is brought to mind by the smell of roses?

Wedding and anniversaries.

4. Do you prefer to read or write?

Well, that's a no-brainer. READ!

5. Sam Keen is quoted as saying, 'Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability.' Would you agree? Is laziness ever respectable? How will you be lazy this summer?

I don't know if I'd call it lazy or just relaxed and laid back. LOL I'm pretty laid back on my days off, just from pure exhaustion. I generally alternate naps and reading.

6. The Florida Keys, Disney World, or a resort somewhere on the Gulf Coast...which Florida destination would you choose (and why) if the trip were today?

I'd be fine with any of those, although Disney World would be my last choice. See #5 above.

7. What question do you hate to answer?

"What is your favorite ______?" be it book, song, Bible verse, color. I always have a hard time deciding. It depends on what I'm in the mood for, or what the situation is. And sometimes it's like comparing apples to oranges.

8. Insert your own random thought here.





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Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Two Roads Home - plus a Giveaway!


Two Roads Home
A Chicory Inn Novel - Book 2
Deborah Raney
(Abingdon Press)
ISBN: 978-1426770418
June 2015/304 pages/$14.99

What if it’s too late for dreams to come true?

Minor-but-nagging setbacks continue to sour Grant and Audrey Whitman’s initiation into the world of innkeeping, but larger challenges brew when an innocent flirtation leads to big trouble for the Whitmans’ son-in-law, Jesse. Jesse Pennington’s friendly, outgoing personality has always served him well, especially in a career that has earned him and his wife Corinne a very comfortable lifestyle. But Corinne and Jesse are both restless—and for similar reasons, if only they could share those with each other. Instead, too many business trips and trumped-up charges of harassment from a disgruntled coworker threaten their marriage and possibly put their three precious daughters at risk.

With their life in disarray, God is tugging at their hearts to pursue other dreams. Can Corinne and Jesse pick up the pieces of what was once a wonderful life before it all crumbles beneath them?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Deborah Raney’s books have won numerous awards, including the RITA, National Readers Choice Award, HOLT Medallion, and the Carol Award, and have twice been Christy Award finalists. She and her husband, Ken, recently traded small-town life in Kansas—the setting of many of Deborah’s novels—for life in the (relatively) big city of Wichita, where they enjoy gardening, antiquing, movies, and traveling to visit four children and a growing brood of grandchildren who all live much too far away. Visit Deborah on the web at DeborahRaney.com.


MY THOUGHTS

Deborah Raney's novels brim with heart and this novel is one of her best yet. I enjoyed meeting the extended Whitman family in the first book, Home to Chicory Lane, (click the title for my review). Two Roads Home focuses on another of Grant and Audrey Whitman's daughters, Corinne, and her husband, Jesse, as they deal with some challenging and very realistic issues that impact their marriage. Raney expertly portrays the seemingly little things that, when left unaddressed by open and honest communication, can chip away at a marriage. Simultaneously heart-warming and instructive, this novel will touch your soul and inspire you. I wish I could spend a night or two at the Chicory Inn, although I would reluctantly avoid Tuesday night, when the whole clan gathers for their weekly family meal! Don't miss this delightful novel with a dash of suspense thrown in. I can't wait to see which Whitman offspring will be featured in the next book!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an advanced copy of this book free from Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”



Enter to win a copy of Two Roads Home—five winners will be chosen! The winners will be announced July 6 on the Litfuse blog! To enter, click the graphic below!

Two Roads Home Deborah Raney



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Monday, June 22, 2015

Summer's List


Summer's List
Anita Higman
(River North)
ISBN: 978-0802412324
June 2015/288 pages/$14.99

A dying wish alters the course of a young woman’s life.

Life hadn’t been easy for Summer Snow. In acts of selflessness-caring for her ailing parents and running her grandmother’s bookstore-she had forfeited her youth and dreams for the needs of others. And the only tries she had at love… didn’t turn out. She had the bookstore, she had her beloved granny, but she was missing something-or someone.

Opportunity strikes when Granny sends Summer on an unexpected adventure with one Martin Langtree, a kind but gangly young man from Summer’s past. A childhood friendship is rekindled, a romance is sparked, and mysteries are solved in one magical Texas summer. Will Summer strike out on love again, or will things finally go her way?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Best-selling and award-winning author, Anita Higman, has over thirty books published (several coauthored) for adults and children. She’s been a Barnes & Noble “Author of the Month” for Houston and has a BA degree, combining speech communication, psychology, and art. Anita loves good movies, exotic teas, and brunch with her friends. Find out more about Anita at http://anitahigman.com.


MY THOUGHTS

I enjoy Anita Higman's books but I have to reluctantly say this one isn't my favorite. There is much to like about it. Summer is an endearing character, and I admire her dedication and love for her family as she cared for her parents and now continues to manage her grandmother's bookstore. The task her grandmother gives her of completing a list of adventures is intriguing, and renewing an acquaintance with her childhood friend has lots of potential for fun and romance. Although he is rather nerdy and lacking in social skills, Martin shows kindness and sincerity to Summer. However, I really had a hard time getting past the dysfunction in Martin's family. His brothers were beyond obnoxious, not to mention immature and downright mean, and it was difficult to keep reading at times. And (slight spoiler alert) it was difficult to believe any significant transformation could suddenly occur after a lifetime of ingrained bad behaviors. However, many other reviewers are giving this book high marks, so check out their reviews before dismissing it. It might be the perfect book for your Summer's List!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Moody/River North Fiction and Litfuse Publicity for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”



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Monday, June 15, 2015

A Heart's Betrayal


A Heart's Betrayal
A Journey of the Heart (Book 4)
Colleen Coble
(Thomas Nelson)
ISBN: 978-0529103437
June 2015/112 pages/$6.99

Emmie finds shelter in the arms of a soldier, but her secret could drive them apart.

When Emmie Croftner answered the door to her late husband’s home, she discovered an awful truth: her deceased husband was a bigamist. And what’s more, the home she thought she inherited never belonged to her at all. Suddenly displaced, powerless, and ashamed, Emmie can’t stay in Wabash, Indiana. She makes a hopeful start for Fort Laramie, Wyoming, to find her friend Sarah Montgomery and a new beginning. But when she arrives, she discovers she’s pregnant—and without a husband. The new start she’d hoped for slips from her fingers. But then she meets Isaac Liddle, a handsome soldier with a kind heart. When he begins to court her, Emmie wonders whether she could ever really be his—and whether she dares to tell him she is carrying another man’s baby.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
USA Today bestselling author Colleen Coble has written several romantic suspense novels including Tidewater Inn, Rosemary Cottage, and the Mercy Falls, Lonestar, and Rock Harbor series. Find out more about Colleen at her website.


MY THOUGHTS

Colleen Coble continues her novella series with another endearing story. Although this is book four, it introduces a new character, Emmie, and brings her to Fort Laramie, Wyoming to join Sarah and the others from the earlier books. Emmie is the sister of Ben, who was so awful in the first three books, and it is refreshing to see that someone in that family was kind! I can't imagine dealing with the news she received, and it was even worse in the times in which she lived. As always, Coble's character development endears Emmie to the hearts of readers, and her combination of danger and romance makes this a book that's hard to put down. Easy to read in one sitting, A Heart's Betrayal is the perfect place to jump into this novella series, even if you haven't read the first three books, although don't blame me if you backtrack and read the first three as well!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”


Click the titles for my reviews of the previous novellas in this serial:

A Heart's Disguise (Book 1)
A Heart's Obsession (Book 2)
A Heart's Danger (Book 3)

* * * * *

Emmie finds shelter in the arms of a soldier in Fort Laramie, Wyoming, but will her big secret drive them apart? Find out in book four, A Heart's Betrayal, of Colleen Coble's A Journey of the Heart series. Suddenly displaced, powerless, and ashamed, Emmie can’t stay in Wabash, Indiana. She makes a hopeful start for Fort Laramie to find her friend Sarah Montgomery and a new beginning. But when she arrives, she discovers she’s pregnant—and without a husband. The new start she’d hoped for slips from her fingers.

Melt into summer with a new giveaway from Colleen: four books (books one–four in Colleen's A Journey of the Heart series) and a box of chocolates to pair with your new books!

heartsbetrayal-400 

One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A copy of A Heart's Betrayal
  • A box of Colleen's favorite chocolate truffles from DeBrand Fine Chocolates
  • A copy of A Heart's Disguise
  • A copy of A Heart's Obsession
  • A copy of A Heart's Danger
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 30th. Winner will be announced July 1st on Colleen's website.

heartsbetrayal-enterbanner




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Thursday, June 11, 2015

A Worthy Pursuit


A Worthy Pursuit
Karen Witemeyer
(Bethany House)
ISBN: 978-0764212802
May 2015/352 pages/$14.99

A teacher on the run. A bounty hunter in pursuit. Can two enemies learn to trust each other before they both lose what they hold most dear?

Stone Hammond is the best tracker in Texas. He never comes home empty-handed. So when a wealthy railroad investor hires him to find his abducted granddaughter, Stone eagerly accepts.

Charlotte Atherton, former headmistress of Sullivan's Academy for Exceptional Youths, will do anything to keep her charges safe, especially the orphaned girl entrusted to her care. Charlotte promised Lily's mother she'd keep the girl away from her unscrupulous grandfather, and nothing will stop Charlotte from fulfilling that pledge. Not even the handsome bounty hunter with surprisingly honest eyes who comes looking for them.

When Miss Atherton produces documentation that shows her to be Lily's legal guardian, Stone must reevaluate everything he's been led to believe. Is she villain or victim?

Then a new danger forces Charlotte to trust the man sent to destroy her. Stone vows to protect what he once sought to tear apart. Besides, he's ready to start a new pursuit: winning Charlotte's heart.

Read an excerpt.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Winner of the HOLT Medallion and the Carol Award, and a finalist for the RITA and Christy Award, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer writes historical romance because she believes in giving the world more happily-ever-afters. Karen makes her home in Abilene, Texas, with her husband and three children. Learn more about Karen and her books at www.karenwitemeyer.com.

MY THOUGHTS

I love Karen Witemeyer's historical romances, and A Worthy Pursuit is one of her best yet. Once again she has crafted an engaging tale that made me smile and sigh and forget everything around me as I read. Charlotte is a likeable and complex character, demonstrating fierce love and protection for the three young children she has in her care, yet not so easily swayed in matters of the heart where men are concerned. Stone is a noble hero, strong and dependable with a tender heart hidden beneath his tough bounty hunter persona. And the three children with their special gifts steal the hearts of any who meet them! Perfectly paced and with danger threatening, this book will keep you reading "just one more chapter" until you've reached the end. Pack this one in your summer tote; it's A Worthy Pursuit for your reading list!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”


A Q&A with KAREN WITEMEYER

1. What inspired this story?
For me, there is usually a single spark that gets a book idea started. For A Worthy Pursuit, that spark was the idea of incorporating gifted children—child prodigies, each having a gift in a different field. And the one who doesn’t consider himself gifted ends up being the one who saves the day, proving he is, in fact, remarkable.

I also wanted to play with the idea of opposites attracting. So I chose a refined, educated headmistress who doesn’t trust men and paired her with a man of action and intrigue who practically walks off the pages of a dime novel. Charlotte has to learn to trust the man who was sent to destroy her in order to protect the children in her care, and Stone must dig deep to unearth the patience it will take to win the heart of the plucky woman he comes to admire.

2. What were your favorite parts to write?
In this story, Lily (the little girl Charlotte is trying to protect) is an avid reader of dime novels, and in several places, she shares the dime-novel stories with the other characters in the book. I had so much fun writing those over-the-top western scenes. It was a blast! In fact, I loved it so much that when I wrote the follow-up novella (The Husband Maneuver) that will release as part of a collection in early 2016, I started every chapter with a short scene from a Dead-Eye Dan dime novel. So in the end, you actually get two stories in one, the dime novel and the novella. Super fun!

3. Which character in your book turned out to be your favorite?
All right. I admit it. The heroes in my books are always my favorites. I suppose it’s because I’m a romance reader first and foremost, so when I write, I create heroes that I, myself, would fall in love with if I was the reader. My philosophy is to write heroines that I wish I could be and write heroes that make me fall in love with them.

So, in A Worthy Pursuit, Stone is my favorite. He was orphaned at a young age and forced to toughen up in order to survive. He found a career that suited his skills and became the best in the business. However, he’s not a shoot-first-ask-questions-later type of bounty hunter. In fact, he leaves the outlaw-chasing business and hires himself out as a retriever in order to use his brain more than his gun. He’s intelligent enough to piece together clues to find things/people nobody else can find. And he’s a man of honor. That’s why when he finds Charlotte and the kids he’s open to hearing her side of the story instead of focusing solely on the paycheck at the end of the job.

He also woos Charlotte with a patience and gentleness that goes completely against his action-oriented nature. There is a scene where he takes her on a walk to watch the sun set, and the triumph he experiences when she finally relaxes enough against him to lay her head on his shoulder always makes me melt. His relentless yet patient pursuit wins not only Charlotte’s heart but mine as well.




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Tuesday, June 9, 2015

A Q&A with Jody Hedlund


Hearts Made Whole
Beacons of Hope
Jody Hedlund
(Bethany House)
ISBN: 978-0764212383
June 2015/384 pages/$14.99

Yesterday, I told you about Jody Hedlund's latest release, Hearts Made Whole. Today I'm happy to share with you an Q&A session that Jody provided to give you a peek into the book and her life.


How did you come up with the idea for Hearts Made Whole?
Historical textbooks are full of stories about men like George Washington, Thomas Edison, Andrew Carnegie, and so many more. And while such men are truly remarkable, all too often their stories overshadow equally courageous and remarkable women. One of my goals as an author is to help bring forgotten women of the past to life.

In the Beacons of Hope series, I'm focusing on historical women light keepers who have often been kept in the dark by the more prominent stories of their male counterparts.

As I researched for writing a lighthouse series, I came across a fantastic book called, Ladies of the Lights: Michigan Women in the U.S. Lighthouse Service. The book is a tribute to the approximately 50 or so women who served either as primary or assistant keepers in Michigan Lighthouses.

I based the heroine in Hearts Made Whole on one of those women light keepers. It's my hope to bring her and the other women keepers out of the historical shadows and into the spotlight.

What is the story about and who are the main characters?

This story is set at a lighthouse in southern Michigan on Lake St. Clair where the heroine, Caroline Taylor, is the acting light keeper. However, in the time directly following the Civil War, women weren't allowed to be light keepers if a man was available instead. Men were almost always given precedence.

Along comes the wounded war hero, Ryan Chambers, who having a little bit of lighthouse experience is looking for a place where he can be isolated and nurse his physical and emotional wounds.

Of course, when the two meet, they're both competing for the same job. Caroline needs to stay in the position in order to provide for her four younger siblings. And Ryan needs the job so that he can save to repay his war debts.

As is always true for my books, when the hero and heroine meet both danger and romance abound!

Each of your lighthouse books is set at a real lighthouse that once existed in Michigan or still does exist. Tell us a little about the lighthouse in this second book.
In my first lighthouse book (Love Unexpected), the lighthouse was set at Presque Isle which is on Lake Huron on the north eastern side of the state. For the second book, I picked a lighthouse in a completely new location with the intention of giving readers a different flavor of climate, geography, and the population.

Windmill Point Lighthouse once existed on Lake St. Clair near Detroit, a much more urban and highly trafficked area than the remote wilderness of Presque Isle. Windmill Point Lighthouse was a strategic beacon that helped ships cross from Lake Huron over into Lake Erie as those ships transported raw goods from the Northwest states to eastern cities and seaports.

The lighthouse is named after the old ruins of a windmill where early frontiersmen brought their grain for grinding. Also, legends attribute the area to being an old battle field of a savage encounter between the early French settlers and Indians. As many as 1000 Fox Indians were slaughtered on the banks of Lake St. Clair. Later settlers to the area uncovered bones, arrowheads, tomahawks, and other gruesome mementos of the battle.

Today, all traces of the original windmill, lighthouse, and burial grounds are long gone. If you visit Grosse Pointe in the Detroit area, all that remains is a small conical structure with a white flashing light.

Is there anything about this second lighthouse book that ties it to the first one? Or are they both stand alone novels that can be read in any order?
All of the books in the Beacon of Hope series can stand alone. Readers don't need to read one book to understand the next. However, I do recommend starting with the novella, Out of the Storm (free in ebook format) which lays the foundation for a common theme that stretches through each book in the series.

The hero of Hearts Made Whole, Ryan Chambers, is the brother of the heroine from the first book (Love Unexpected). Readers will enjoy meeting the younger, more carefree Ryan in Love Unexpected. But they'll fall in love with him in Hearts Made Whole even if they haven't yet met him in book 1.

Many of the heroines in your books are inspired by real women. Is that true of the heroine in Hearts Made Whole? If so, what women provided inspiration?
The woman light keeper in Hearts Made Whole is inspired by Caroline Antaya. Caroline lived at the Mamajuda Lighthouse on the Detroit River a short distance away from Windmill Point Lighthouse.

Caroline's husband served with honor in the Union army during the Civil War, losing several fingers on his hand at Gettysburg. Eventually after returning from the war, her husband was named as keeper of the Mamajuda Lighthouse, but he passed away of tuberculosis.

Part of what really impressed me about Caroline Antaya's situation was that she had been doing a fantastic job as a light keeper. But the district lighthouse inspector trumped up charges against her saying that she was in ill-health and incompetent. He took away her position simply because she was a woman and gave it to a man instead. Fortunately, her community rose to her defense and enlisted the help of a Michigan Senator to help her get her position back and she went on to serve as a light keeper for another three years.

In those days, when women were regularly discriminated against because of gender, Caroline's story is inspirational and an encouragement to persevere in the face of injustice. I admired Caroline's will to stand up for herself and to pave the way for women coming after her to use their God-given talents and abilities in roles and jobs that had previously been closed to women.

Which scene in Hearts Made Whole was the most fun to write? Which was the hardest?
My favorite scene to write was the shaving scene, where Ryan is attempting to shave himself one-handed (due to his war injury), and he ends up doing a terrible job! Caroline offers to help him which leads to a very romantic scene of her lathering him up and having to spend plenty of time in close proximity.

The hardest part of the book to write was the scene where Caroline's sister Tessa makes a BIG mistake (I can't mention it otherwise I will spoil the story). But it was a heart-wrenching scene (and difficult to write tastefully and required lots of editing to get it just right).

What do you hope readers take away from Hearts Made Whole?
Readers familiar with my books will know that I'm not afraid to tackle really tough issues. That's especially true in Hearts Made Whole. Since the hero is coming home as a Civil War veteran, he's facing some post-traumatic stress as well as debilitating war wounds that leave him addicted to his pain medicine.

At the same time the heroine is struggling to act as both father and mother to her four siblings while holding down a job as light keeper. She has the overwhelming job of trying to take care of everyone and everything while always remaining strong.

Both characters come to a point where they recognize they can't face all of their overwhelming troubles on their own and cry out to God their desperate need for Him. I hope that readers will take away a desire to turn to God in their most desperate needs too and know that He is there waiting to comfort and help them.

Why lighthouses? What fascinates you about these shining beacons?
I'm fascinated with lighthouses for a number of reasons. First, my state of Michigan is home to the greatest concentration of lights in the United States. In fact, Michigan is noted as the state where the most lighthouses were erected. And now today, more than 120 remain compared to 500 total for the rest of the nation.

Not only are lighthouse beautiful and picturesque, but they bring back a sense of nostalgia, poignancy, and romance that few other historical markers do. They're rich in historical details and stories. They're wrought with danger and death. And they're just plain fun to explore. Climbing the winding staircase, reaching the top, and peering out the tower windows (or in some cases going out onto the gallery) is breathtaking.

What kind of rules and regulations did lighthouses have?
The rules and regulations for keepers were often very strict. Keepers were expected to maintain spotlessly clean homes and towers, had to be ready for surprise inspections at any time, and had to maintain rigorous log books with accurate records that documented everything from ship wrecks to oil usage to weather conditions.

One rule that I found especially funny was that women were prohibited from painting the lighthouse tower. Obviously their skirts put them at a disadvantage over men, especially for painting jobs that required them to sit high above the ground. Nevertheless, it was one more area where women were not allowed the same privileges as men.

How do you manage to balance your life as a full-time author and mom to five busy children?
It’s definitely not easy to manage my busy household of five children and squeeze in time for writing. But fortunately my husband is very helpful and pitches in to help wherever possible. We really work together as a team to support each other in our pursuits and work.

For example, when he's home he often takes over the household responsibilities, runs kids to activities, and pitches in with homeschooling so that I can have concentrated blocks of time to write.
We've also simplified our home life and outside commitments as much as possible. We expect our children to shoulder responsibilities around the home. And last, but certainly not least, I rely upon my mom for lots of help too. She helps homeschool, cook meals, and even runs my kids to activities.

Do you ever get writer's block? How do you work your way past it?
No, fortunately, I rarely get writer’s block. I give myself a daily word count of how much I need to write, and I stick to it as best as I can. Whatever amount I miss one day, I try to make up on another day of that week. Having the daily/weekly goals helps keep me going even when I’m not in the mood. However, if I ever get into a slump, I put in my earbuds and listen to music. The steady rhythm helps me block out distractions, inspires me, and often evokes strong emotions deep inside me.

Do you do a lot of research for your novels? Do you do it before, in the middle, or after you write your novel?
Since I write historicals, research is an integral part of my writing process. I usually spend anywhere between 4-6 weeks on initial research, reading biographies, getting a feel for the time period, and digging into the meat that will comprise the plot of my book.

Once I start writing the first draft, I have to stop from time to time to do a little more research, particularly if I switch settings within the story. But usually, if I don’t know something, I’ll highlight it and then do more research during my editing phase.

How do you name each character?
The process of coming up with names is quite complicated, and I generally take a lot of elements into consideration. I keep a running list of all the heroes and heroines of my books and try not to duplicate anything too closely to a name I've already used.

I also take into consideration names used doing the time period and the ethnicity of my characters. For example, in my first lighthouse book, Love Unexpected, I chose Irish names that were commonly used during the 1800's because both of the main characters had an Irish heritage.

Sometimes I consider symbolism for names. Other times, particularly in my inspired-by stories, I try to pick a name that is similar to the character from history that I'm portraying.

What essential ingredients do you strive for in your novels to ensure an authentic love story emerges?
I always try to incorporate the elements that I like to see in the romances I read. That includes deep emotions that are birthed out of a character's past. I also like to have a relationship that evolves organically throughout the book. I try not to have my characters being antagonistic to one another the whole book and then finally falling in love in the last chapter at the last minute. I want the couple to move from friendship to falling in love gradually and to have a growing attraction (with the sparks flying!) throughout the book.

At the same time, however, I don't like to have the love relationship resolve too early in the book. Readers don't want the "happily-ever-after" moment to come until the end. So while the relationship is developing, it's important to find ways to keep the couple from being fully together until the end.

What Scripture verse has inspired you in your writing?
Among many, here’s one I aspire to live by: Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. (Ecc. 9:10) I believe in working responsibly and hard with the gifts we’ve been given.

What do you do to get away from it all?
READ!! I absolutely love reading! When I find a really good book, I have a hard time tearing myself away from it to get to sleep.

What is your family up to these days?
My husband and I are celebrating 24 years of marriage this summer! Yay! My oldest son is graduating from high school and will be attending a private Christian college in the fall, Cedarville University in Ohio. My twins will be turning 16 during the summer and getting their driver's licenses. Since they are involved in SO many activities, I'm looking forward to them driving themselves places! My youngest two children have completed 4th and 6th grade and are in an Adventures In Odyssey phase. I think they've listened to just about every episode that's ever been made!

Jody's Bio:

Jody Hedlund is a best-selling and award-winning author who loves history and happily-ever-afters. She makes her home in Midland, MI with her husband and five children. When she's not writing another of her page-turning stories, you can usually find her sipping coffee, eating chocolate, and reading.

Contact Jody:

I hang out on Facebook here: Author Jody Hedlund
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Or you're welcome to email me at: jodyhedlund@jodyhedlund.com





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Monday, June 8, 2015

The Reckoning


The Reckoning
Legacy of the King's Pirates, Book 5
MaryLu Tyndall
(Ransom Press)
ASIN: B00XDA6P4Y
July 2015/330 pages/$4.99

When Morgan Shaw crept into the hold of an old pirate ship replica at San Diego’s Annual Tall Ship Festival, her only intention was to avoid the guy who had just dumped her and who was now boarding the ship with two women on his arm. What she didn’t expect was to wake up aboard a real pirate ship three-hundred years in the past. But of course, it wasn’t real. Her wealthy father had obviously staged it all in an effort to get her mind off her upcoming chemo. Or had he?

Pirate Rowan Dutton seeks enough treasure to repay a debt to his sister and reinstate the Dutton name among British Jamaican Society. He is but one major haul away from accomplishing his goal when a strange woman appears on his ship and causes him to lose his prey. Despite his anger, he is enthralled with the little minx, her strange clothing, odd speech, and her insistence that they are all actors playing a charade paid for by her father.

Yet when the brazen little lady divulges Rowan’s secret to a longtime nemesis, events are triggered that could cost them both their lives and change the course of history forever.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A Christy Award finalist and best-selling author, MaryLu Tyndall dreamt of tall ships and swashbuckling heroes during her childhood years on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. She holds a degree in Math and worked as a software engineer for fifteen years. Trapped in a land-locked cubicle, she was often seen pounding furiously upon the keyboard during her lunch hour, creating what would become her Legacy of the King’s Pirates series, all the while believing God’s promise to her that. “If you write it, I will get it published”. And He did! Fourteen books later, her loving husband and six children still haven’t gotten used to her historic costumes and nautical speech. MaryLu describes herself as an introvert, patriot, mother of six, the neighborhood cat-lady, tall ship enthusiast, friend of pirates and mermaids, obsessive compulsive control freak, history lover, hopeless romantic, and a sword wielding princess-warrior of the King of Kings. Her books are filled with adventure and romance and themes that are guaranteed to touch your heart! She continues to pen her romantic tales on the California coast while managing a home, husband, six adult kids, and several stray cats who have decided that her keyboard is the best place to sleep! She believes that without popcorn and chocolate, life would not be worth living, and her sole motivation in life is to bring others closer to God. Learn more at her website, Cross and Cutlass.


MY THOUGHTS

MaryLu Tyndall has added a fresh new twist to her latest pirate novel with the addition of time travel, whisking Morgan from current-day San Diego to a pirate ship in 1694. While the opening scene and set-up is a bit cliche, Tyndall hits her stride once Morgan awakens and discovers that things have changed a bit. Her disorientation is well-portrayed, as is her initial lack of fear which stems from her certainty that this is all a set-up arranged by her father. Rowan's reactions to her strange idioms add humor to some tense moments. One of my favorite aspects of Tyndall's pirate stories is the reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. The Reckoning also shines a light on those who give lip-service to believing in God but whose actions and lack of peace contradict their words, although this is far from a preachy novel. With its faith message woven naturally into the story, this tale contains plenty of action, danger on the high seas, and romance. I devoured this book in a long evening, not setting it aside until the final surprising twist had been revealed. A captivating read, The Reckoning is available for pre-order today, releasing July 1!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this digital book free from MaryLu Tyndall. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”



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Hearts Made Whole


Hearts Made Whole
Beacons of Hope
Jody Hedlund
(Bethany House)
ISBN: 978-0764212383
June 2015/384 pages/$14.99

Can she forgive the hurting man who costs her the role she loves?

After her father’s death, Caroline Taylor has grown confident running the Windmill Point Lighthouse. But in 1865 Michigan, women aren’t supposed to have such roles, so it’s only a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector appoints a new keeper–even though Caroline has nowhere else to go and no other job available to her.

Ryan Chambers is a Civil War veteran still haunted by the horrors of battle. He’s secured the position of lighthouse keeper mostly for the isolation–the chance to hide from his past is appealing. He’s not expecting the current keeper to be a feisty and beautiful woman who’s angry with him for taking her job and for his inability to properly run the light. When his failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he’s in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he’s unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Caroline feels drawn to this wounded soul, but with both of them relying on that single position, can they look past their loss to a future filled with hope…and possibly love?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of nine novels, including “Captured By Love,” “Rebellious Heart,” and “A Noble Groom,” winner of the 2014 Carol Award and INSPYs Award. She received a bachelor’s from Taylor University and a master’s from University of Wisconsin, both in social work. Currently she makes her home in Midland, Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. Find out more about Jody at http://jodyhedlund.com/.



MY THOUGHTS

I am thoroughly enjoying Jody Hedlund's Beacons of Hope series focusing on lighthouses of the Michigan's Great Lakes. (Click the titles to read my reviews of the the free prequel novella, Out of the Storm, and book 1, Love Unexpected.) Jody Hedlund weaves a compelling story from historical records that pays tribute to the enormous responsibility undertaken by those who faithfully served as lightkeepers of these vital landmarks. I loved Caroline's fortitude and determination to continue her role in the face of strong and equally determined opposition. Her devotion to the lighthouse coupled with her fierce loyalty to her family make her a force to be reckoned with! Tension builds as intrigue, danger, and romance weave together in a tale impossible to put down. A beautiful thread of compassion and grace runs through this story, as well. This not only makes a great summer read but if you are anywhere near the Great Lakes, you will want to visit the area where these magnificent beacons pushed back the darkness. Don't miss this book and this series!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”


Don't miss Jody Hedlund's new book, Hearts Made Whole, a story of loss, forgiveness, hope, and true love set in 1865 Michigan. When Ryan's failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he’s in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he’s unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Can Caroline forgive the hurting man who costs her the role she loves?

Celebrate the release of Hearts Made Whole by entering to win an Afternoon at the Beach prize pack and RSVPing to Jody's June 23rd author chat party!

hearts made whole - 400 

One grand prize winner will receive:
One second-place winner will receive:
One third-place winner will receive:
hearts made whole - prize colalge 

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 23rd.Winner will be announced June 23rd at Jody's Facebook partyRSVP here!

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Friday, June 5, 2015

ACFW June New Releases

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.


Contemporary Romance:

Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Beth K. Vogt -- A couple who eloped during spring break during their senior year of high school -- and then divorced -- have to decide whether they should take a second chance at love. (Contemporary Romance from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

A Pinch of Promise by Elizabeth Maddrey -- To escape a painful negative image created by her father, physical therapist Rebecca Fischer has constructed an identity completely separate from her past. Helping Ben Taylor, her long lost love, to rehabilitate his knee threatens to shatter her intricate illusions. As Ben digs to uncover the truth of who she is, Rebecca must decide if she will trust any man with her wounded heart. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Rodeo Reunion by Shannon Taylor Vannatter -- Slade Walker, the bronc riding rodeo chaplain breaks all of widowed Raquel's rules-find a father for her son with a safe occupation, who's home every night. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Cozy Mystery:

Murder Freshly Baked by Vannetta Chapman -- Amber Bowman, manager of The Amish Artisan Village in Middlebury, Indiana, and her young Amish friend Hanna Troyer must find a killer in order to clear an employee's name. The only clues they have are cryptic poems and pies from the "Poison Poet"-an individual who has been sending notes containing bad poetry to warn of poisoned baked goods. (Cozy Mystery from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

General Fiction:

Two Roads Home: A Chicory Inn Novel, Book 2 by Deborah Raney -- Can Corinne and Jesse pick up the pieces of what was once a wonderful life before an innocent flirtation and trumped-up charges of harassment crumble it all beneath them? (General Fiction from Abingdon Press)

Historical Romance:

Beyond the Ashes by Karen Barnett - In 1906 San Francisco, a city rising from the ashes, a young widow joins her brother in his cancer research, but Ruby Marshall doesn't anticipate finding new love. Dr. Gerald Larkspur dreams of filling his empty home with family, but when his friend's widowed sister arrives to help research, the close quarters seem close indeed. Ruby and Gerald's fledgling romance is challenged when Gerald develops symptoms of the very disease they're striving to cure. When time is short, is love still worth the risk? (Historical Romance from Abingdon Press)

Love's Rescue: A Novel (Keys of Promise) by Christine Johnson -- When her mother dies, Elizabeth Benjamin heads home to Key West, determined to transform herself into the perfect Southern belle her parents always wished her to be. But nothing goes according to plan. As family secrets come to light, Elizabeth is faced with a difficult choice: to do her duty and abandon her dreams, or to leave her life of privilege behind to chase the man her father sees as little better than a pirate. (Historical Romance from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])

Family of Her Dreams by Keli Gwyn -- A headstrong housekeeper who longs for a family of her own must convince a withdrawn widower she's the right person to care for his children-and help him learn to live again. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

A Flying Affair by Carla Stewart -- Daredevil Mittie Humphreys navigates her heart as well as the skies in this beguiling adventure of grit and determination during the rollicking Roaring Twenties. (Historical Romance from Faith Words [Hachette])

Undercover Bride by Margaret Brownley -- Pinkerton operative Maggie Michaels travels to Arizona Territory as an undercover mail-order bride to track down the notorious Whistle-Stop Bandit. If she doesn't prove the suspect guilty before the wedding-she could end up as his wife! (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Now and Forever by Mary Connealy -- An accident in the wilderness results in a Matthew Tucker, a solitary mountain man, finding himself hitched to a Shannon Wilde, a woman with a passel of relatives, a homestead, and a flock of sheep to care for. Someone clearly wants to drive Shannon off, but whoever it is apparently didn't count on Tucker. Trying to scare Matthew Tucker just makes him mad--and trying to hurt the woman he's falling in love with sets off something even he never expected. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing])

To Win Her Favor (A Belle Meade Plantation Novel) by Tamera Alexander -- A gifted rider in a world where ladies never race, Maggie Linden is determined that her horse will become a champion. But the one man who could help her has vowed to stay away from thoroughbred racing forever. (Historical Romance from Zondervan)

Romantic Suspense:

Permanent Vacancy by Katy Lee -- When Gretchen Bauer begins to renovate an old Victorian house with the help of a home improvement TV show, "accidents" start to happen. Could it be a harmful ploy to boost ratings? With many neighbors disgruntled about the inn bringing strangers to their shores, Gretchen has a list of likely suspects. Should she trust the TV show host, handsome Irishman Colm McCrae? She must if she wants to keep her new business venture from turning into a five-star death trap. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Speculative Fiction:

Stealthy Steps by Vikki Kestell -- My name is Gemma Keyes. Other than my name, I am utterly forgettable-so those who never paid much attention to me in the first place aren't likely to notice that I've disappeared. Vanished. Oh, it's much more complicated than that. (Speculative Fiction, Independently Published)

Supernatural Thriller:

The Tuning Station by Chris A Crawford -- Atheist Ted Duncan finds himself face-to-face with a copy of himself from a parallel universe; his counterpart, however, is Christian. The pair are given controls to the Tuning Station, a machine that allows them to observe their pasts, and assigned a deceptively simple task: discover the exact moment their lives diverged. Ted believed that it was inevitable he'd leave faith and family behind. But his twin stands as a denial. What single event could have changed everything he knows to be true? (Supernatural Thriller, Independently Published)







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