A Thankful Hodgepodge

1. Are you settling for something?

Not that I know of. I'd like to settle for a long winter's nap!

2. It wasn't that long ago almost every store in the US locked doors and turned out lights on Thanksgiving Day. This year many will be open all day Thursday, giving shoppers a jump start on 'Black Friday'. In your opinion is this a good thing or a not so good thing? Will you be shopping on Thanksgiving Day?

Definitely a BAD thing. I will NOT be shopping on Thanksgiving Day. I will actually be working but even if I were not, I wouldn't set foot in the store.

I do find it interesting though, that people are all bent out of shape about this yet think nothing of going to the movie on Christmas Day.

3. Speaking of shopping... I saw a recent article on the twelve best shopping cities in the world. In order they are-

New York, Tokyo, London, Kuala Lumpur, Paris, Hong Kong, Buenos Aires, Vienna, Dubai, Madrid, Milan, and Seoul.

Ever shopped in any of the cities listed? In which city would you most like to pull out the plastic or cold hard cash?

Never have. For shopping, I'd most like to go to New York, although I'd really like to visit London. The rest hold no particular appeal.

4. When did you last dine by candlelight?

My anniversary.

5. What do you have too much of?

Most things. Books, clothes, shoes, food, "stuff;" most Americans could probably get buy with half of what we have.

6. The Hunger Games...are you a fan? Did you read the book(s)? Will you/have you seen the movie? Will you/have you seen Catching Fire? No spoilers please!

No, no, no, and no.

7. Share your plans for Thanksgiving Day. The who, the where, the what...especially the what! As in what's for dinner? If you're one of my International visitors, whose homeland doesn't celebrate American Thanksgiving (the whole world doesn't ya know!), then still tell us your plans for Thursday.

Working and eating a sandwich. My family will be at my MIL's enjoying turkey, ham, and all the trimmings. I figured there was no point in their being here if I'm going to be gone thirteen hours a day! I'll be there beginning Friday.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Aloha Rose

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingAloha RoseAbingdon Press (November 19, 2013)byLisa Carter
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from the author:

I am a wife and mother. My husband and I have two daughters and make our home in the beautiful state of North Carolina.

I am a teacher. With a Master’s degree in history, I have taught at the university, high school and middle school levels. After years of church involvement as a soloist, choir member and worship leader, I also teach music.

I am a writer. Delighted by the rhythm and musicality of words, I have been writing since childhood. In 2001, I won the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Story Writing Contest that re-ignited a lifelong love of writing.

I am on a journey of faith. My ultimate desire through my life and my writing is to proclaim the truth of God’s Word, His redeeming love as seen in the life of Jesus Christ and to help others know for themselves this great, awesome God of all comfort and wisdom. He is enough for every need.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Laney Carrigan sets out to find her birth family, her only clue is the Hawaiian quilt—a red rose snowflake appliquéd on a white background—in which she was found wrapped as an infant. Centering her search on the Big Island and battling fears of rejection, Laney begins a painstaking journey toward her true heritage. Kai Barnes, however, is determined to protect the people he’s come to regard as family. He thinks Laney is nothing more than a gold digger and blocks every move she makes toward her Hawaiian family. As their conflict escalates, it puts at risk the one thing that Kai and Laney both want most—a family.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Aloha Rose, go HERE.

MY THOUGHTS

Once again, Abingdon Press has released another wonderful addition to their Quilts of Love series. From the very beginning of this story, I was captivated by the characters and Laney's quest to find out more about her birth family. Lisa Carter has penned a novel full of emotion that will tug at your heart. I particularly appreciated the thread that portrayed how the family cared for the grandmother as dementia from Alzheimer's took its toll on her mind and on their stamina. An explanation of an unexpected meaning of the word aloha added to the beauty and poignancy of this novel. Curl up on a wintry evening and escape to beautiful Hawaii with Aloha Rose!

A Marriage in Middlebury

A Marriage in Middlebury
Anita Higman
(Abingdon Press)
ISBN: 978-1426733871
November 2013/304 pages/$14.99
One decision changed both their lives . . . but will love win in the end?

Charlotte Rose Hill enjoys a comfortable life serving up country delicacies, uniquely blended teas, and matchmaking advice for her quirky, devoted customers. The only thing lacking is someone to share it with. At eighteen she denied Sam Wilder’s marriage proposal after his family convinced her to walk away from their relationship. They both moved on . . . or so she thought.

When Sam walks back into her life more than a decade later, Charlotte is surprised that her heart still quickens. But is it because of his presence? Or because of the presence of Sam’s new fiancée? A second chance at love doesn’t happen often, but their past may keep them apart. Is it too late for Sam and Charlotte?


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 and on Facebook and Twitter.


MY THOUGHTS

Anita Higman has written another delightful book. I loved visiting Middlebury and wish it were an actual town that I could visit, especially Charlotte's tea room. What a charming place to spend a morning with a friend! (I was particularly thrilled to discover that the tearoom just outside of Houston that gave Higman the idea for the setting is one that I have actually visited, and it is indeed lovely.) Middlebury is full of characters with a variety of personalities and a few eccentrics, just like most places! Charlotte's sweet personality and desire to show God's love and kindness to everyone she encounters is a beautiful reminder of how we should all live. While I loved the sweet romance in this book, there is so much more to this story than that. A Marriage in Middlebury is a must-read!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity. 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.”


Anita Higman is celebrating the release of her latest book, A Marriage in Middlebury, with a double Kindle Fire giveaway (one for you & one to give away!) and a "Tea for Two" Facebook Author Chat Party on December 12th.

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire for you AND a friend
• A Marriage in Middlebury by Anita Higman (one to keep and one to give away!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 12th. Winner will be announced at the "Tea for Two" Facebook Author Chat Party on December 12th. Invite your friends and connect with Anita for an evening of book chat, prizes, and an exclusive look at Anita's next book!

So grab your copy of A Marriage in Middlebury and join Anita on the evening of December 12th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page.
Spread the word — tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on 12/12!

Elusive Hope

Elusive Hope
MaryLu Tyndall
(Barbour Books)
ISBN: 978-1616265977
November 2013/320 pages/$12.99
Embark on an exotic adventure in Book 2 of the Escape to Paradise series from bestselling author MaryLu Tyndall. In the fledgling colony of New Hope, their friends struggle to create a Southern utopia in Brazil soon after the Civil War. But Hayden is seeking revenge—relentlessly. And Magnolia is seeking a way out—desperately. They both seek to use the other for their own purposes—deceptively. Falling in love was never part of their plans. . . .




ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MaryLu Tyndall, a Christy Award Finalist, and best-selling author of the Legacy of the King’s Pirates series is known for her adventurous historical romances filled with deep spiritual themes. She holds a degree in Math and worked as a software engineer for fifteen years before testing the waters as a writer. MaryLu currently writes full time and makes her home on the California coast with her husband, six kids, and four cats. Her passion is to write page-turning, romantic adventures that not only entertain but open people's eyes to their God-given potential. MaryLu is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America.


MY THOUGHTS

I do love a book by MaryLu Tyndall, and she has penned another breathtaking novel with Elusive Hope. While the untamed land of Brazil would not have been my choice of a setting, Tyndall's writing nevertheless swept me into the story and kept me turning pages in this historical romance that includes danger, suspense, personal struggles, and a bit of the supernatural. While I loved the highly satisfying romance, my favorite part of this book was Magnolia's journey to learning what beauty really means. What a powerful message Tyndall has woven into this captivating novel! Don't miss this book and this series!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. 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.”

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. What lesson has failure taught you?

That it's much more enjoyable to succeed. :-)

2. What decision are you glad you made?

The decision to follow Christ.

3. I've been a little bit surprised to see fully lit and decorated Christmas trees popping up for the past several weeks in friend's Instagram feeds. So tell the truth-is your tree up and decorated, and if so when did that happen? If not, when will you be decking the halls?

Noooo. Not until after Thanksgiving. Maybe not until the kids are home from college, around the 10th of December. Just depends on my work schedule and motivation.

4. Solitaire-Poker-Rummy-Hearts-Go Fish-Old Maid...which game of cards would you most like to join?

Out of those, I'd say it's a toss-up between Solitaire and Hearts, depending on my mood. I also like Spades. And Spider Solitaire.

5. This question comes to you courtesy of a Facebook friend, who once upon a time had a blog...When you're feeling stressed do you snack a lot or are you more the 'can't eat' type?

It depends on the type of stress but usually, I can't eat.

6. Have you ever reviewed a product or service on line? Was your review favorable or less than favorable?

I review books all the time. Most of my reviews are favorable because I'm careful about what I accept to review, but I'm honest in my reviews and have had given some less positive ones as well.

7. What was the best conversation you had yesterday?

Yesterday (Tuesday) was my first day off after working a couple of long days. That means I was pretty exhausted and didn't do much, nor did I really talk to anyone other than my man. And that wasn't even very deep.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I love this post and am so happy and blessed to be in a "boring" marriage.

A Simple Christmas Wish

A Simple Christmas Wish
Melody Carlson
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800719654
September 2013/176 pages/Hardcover/$15.99
One girl in need of a home. One woman in search of a home for her heart. One Christmas where it all seems possible.

It felt strange to be out here in the middle of the night, still wearing the Amish dress--a dress that had belonged to Miri. Rachel's footsteps crunched in the snow, and halfway between the barn and the house, she paused to look up at the night sky, wondering if more snow was in store, but all she saw was velvety black and stars. Millions of twinkling stars. She had never seen stars like that before, so bright and so close, almost as if she could touch them with her hand.

Rachel Milligan never imagined that she and her seven-year-old niece would spend the week before Christmas on a quaint Amish farm in Ohio. But with so many unexpected occurrences of late, perhaps she shouldn't have been surprised.

With her young niece Holly in tow, Rachel anxiously makes her way from Chicago to Ohio's Amish country. As love begins to blossom, family secrets emerge, and old wounds are healed, Rachel realizes that she will do whatever it takes to ensure that Holly has the loving family she needs.

Join bestselling author Melody Carlson on an emotional journey into the heart of what family truly means at Christmastime.

Download an excerpthere.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with sales of more than five million. She is the author of several Christmas books, including the bestselling The Christmas Bus, The Christmas Dog, Christmas at Harrington's, and The Christmas Pony. She received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series and Finding Alice. She and her husband live in central Oregon. For more information about Melody visit her website at www.melodycarlson.com.

MY THOUGHTS

I know the holidays have arrived when I get a Christmas novella by Melody Carlson. As always, Revell has created a beautiful cover to go with this tender story. Carlson packs a lot into this novella-a lot of grief, fear, anger, and remorse, as well as love, hope, forgiveness, and faith. Don't miss this heartwarming story of the season.




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishing. 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.”

Talking Turkey with the Hodgepodge

1. Describe a typical Sunday from your childhood.

Sunday school and church in the morning. Home for lunch, which was almost always my mom's fried chicken so we usually didn't eat until after 1:30 by the time she got everything fixed. Then I usually had to take a nap or at least lie down and be still & quiet for 30 minutes to an hour, which I H-A-T-E-D. Training Union, as they called it way back then, started at 6:15 and the service started at 7:20. We never missed those either. We usually got home around 8:45 or 9:00 and had a light supper - peanut butter and crackers or cheese and crackers or occasionally hot dogs and then I was sent to bed as quickly as possible.

2. How comfortable are you with uncertainty? Explain.

I certainly prefer certainty. But on some things, uncertainty is fine. It just depends what it is.

3. What have you accomplished recently that might be described as crafty, as in 'arts and crafts' crafty? If crafty doesn't work for you, how about handy? Or both?

Craftiness as it relates to arts and crafts is a foreign concept to me. I can be handy, though. I just can't think of anything I've done recently that fits that definition. Maybe it was troubleshooting an IV machine at the skilled nursing facility where I work.

4. Have you ever worked in a 'food place'? What did you take away from the experience?

Nope. Totally avoided those types of jobs.

5. Cold turkey, talk turkey, what a turkey...in recent days, which turkey phrase or idiom best applies to you and why? Click on the word turkey if you need to read more about the meaning behind each phrase.

Talk turkey. . .I'm pretty straightforward and cut to the chase.

6. If you could have any one guest join your Thanksgiving dinner table, who would it be?

Me. I'm working Thanksgiving Day so I'll be missing out on turkey and dressing, one of my favorite meals of the year!

7. What is one thing you must accomplish today?

Working 12 hours!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

We skipped fall and went straight to winter! We had a freeze warning last night and another one tonight. Brrr!

Promise to Return - A Fabulous Debut Novel

I am absolutely thrilled to tell you about a debut novel by a delightful new author. I was blessed to meet Elizabeth Byler Younts at ACFW in 2012 and she has become a dear friend. I was deeply honored that she asked me to endorse her novel, Promise to Return--my first official endorsement! I promised I would be completely honest but she needn't have worried! This is not your typical Amish novel; she has set the bar extremely high and written a novel that will give you much to ponder. Elizabeth is a gifted author and I can't wait to see what God has in store for her writing journey.

Promise to Return
(Promise of Sunrise)
Elizabeth Byler Younts
(Howard Books)
ISBN: 978-1476735016
October 2013/320 pages/$14.99
When World War II breaks out, Miriam Coblentz’s peaceful Amish world is turned upside down...

It’s 1943, and Miriam Coblentz and Henry Mast are nearing their wed­ding day when the unthinkable happens—Henry is drafted. However, since he is a part of the pacifist Amish tradition, Henry is sent to a conscientious objector Civilian Public Service camp. When he leaves for the work camp, his gaping absence turns Miriam’s life upside down. Little does she know it’s only the beginning... When Henry returns home, he brings news that shakes Miriam and their Amish community to the core. Henry believes God has called him to enlist in the army and fight for his country, leaving her to make an impor­tant decision: whether to choose loyalty to the peaceful life she’s always known or her love for Henry. Two worlds collide in this unforgettable debut novel, providing a fasci­nating and rare look into Amish culture during World War II. While Henry is battling enemies across the ocean, Miriam struggles between her devotion to Henry and her love of the Amish way of life. One question is at the bottom of it all: will she follow the rules of her religion or the leading of her heart?


Elizabeth Byler Younts is this week's ACFW Featured Author Interview. Read that interview here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I’m Elizabeth, a blessed child of The King. I’m a middle-born daughter, military officer’s wife, homeschooling mama, writer, closet DIYer, and, dare I say it, Downton Abbey addict. May I also mention that I love both my history and my coffee rich.

I am formerly Amish and my heritage is very dear to me and thankful to be so accepted among my still Amish family. I can still speak PA Dutch, too! You can learn more about my Amish family in my first book Seasons: A Real Story of an Amish Girl.

My three book series with Howard Books (a division of Simon & Schuster) is a dream come true. The series is titled The Promise of Sunrise. In this series you will live through World War 2 from an Amish perspective and experience their unique struggles as conscientious objectors during wartime. What happened if one of their members enlisted? What was it like to serve at the Civilian Public Service Camps for years with almost no compensation? How did Amish women and families cope when a son or father was drafted? I look forward to taking you back into the richness of these years of Amish history through fiction.

I’m happily represented by the Natasha Kern Agency. I’m more than happy about this actually; I’m over the moon about it!


MY ENDORSEMENT

“With an authenticity birthed by her own familial Amish roots, Elizabeth Byler Younts brings a fresh and gifted voice to Amish fiction in her debut novel. Stirring prose and richly developed characters resonate deeply, touching the heart. An evocative portrayal of the conflicts of heart, home, and culture that arise when an Amish young man enlists in the Army during World War II, this is a must-read. I’m already eagerly anticipating Elizabeth’s next novel!”




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an advanced copy of this book from Howard Books. 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.”

Paige Rewritten

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingPaige RewrittenNavPress (October 8, 2013)byErynn Mangum
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A few things about her:

So, if we were having this conversation in person, we would probably be hanging out at Starbucks or one of the cute coffeehouses in town. I’m nuts about all things coffee, I’m crazy about all things pink and girly, and I love, love, love the Food Network! I’m married to my best friend and the most amazing guy ever, Jon. He is amiable toward coffee, does not like anything pink or girly and tolerates the Food Network. So we make a good match! In July 2010, we became parents to one of the funniest, cutest, sweetest little guys in the whole world (and nope, we aren’t biased at all!), our Nater-Tot, who is legally known as Nathan. Most days, I’m cleaning up messes, making goofy faces, trying to fit some writing in, and just LOVING the life that God has given me!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Paige Alder is in a really good place. She’s dating nice guy Tyler. Her boss has offered her a raise. Her walk with God is strong. Life is great—and that’s when things start to change.

First, the youth pastor at church keeps asking Paige to work with him full-time. Then her sister shows up newly engaged and wanting to reconnect, even though they haven’t spoken in years. And now former boyfriend Luke has come back into her life. How is Paige supposed to know what the right decisions are?

This warm and humorous second book in the Paige Alder series will help young girls work through important issues, such as forgiving others and obeying God.


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

MY THOUGHTS

I love Erynn Mangum's books! I'd ask "Where was she when I was in MY twenties and dating?" except she was probably not even born yet! Paige Rewritten is a delightful story that is full of humor and heartwarming moments while at the same time dealing with serious and relatable issues common to so many people, married or single. This is shaping up to be my favorite series yet of Mangum's. Paige's authenticity as she contends with the challenges that arise in her life is refreshing and down-to-earth. While this novel is geared towards the young adult audience, the life lessons within are applicable to folks of all ages. Highly recommended!

12 Days of Christmas Blog Tour - Beth Wiseman

Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction are hosting the 12 Days of Christmas! They've teamed up with three of their authors, Colleen Coble, Tricia Goyer, and Beth Wiseman, for a Merry Facebook Party on November 12th {5pm Pacific / 8pm Eastern}. Colleen, Tricia, and Beth will host an evening of book chat, Christmas traditions, and of course plenty of presents!

But wait! There's more! Each day between now and November 12th a different book (10 copies of each book) will be given away on the Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction Facebook Page. Ring in the holiday season and warm your heart with some great reads from Thomas Nelson and Zondervan!

 
Click here to ENTER each day's giveaway here.
RSVP for the Christmas Party here!

Good luck and hope to see you on the evening of the 12th!

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Today I am featuring Beth Wiseman's Plain Peace. Earlier this week, I featured each of the other three books by Colleen Coble and Tricia Goyer.

Click here to read my review of Holy Night by Colleen Coble.

Click here to read my review of Silent Night by Colleen Coble.

Click here to read my review of A Christmas Gift for Rose by Tricia Goyer.

Plain Peace
(A Daughters of the Promise Novel)
Beth Wiseman
(Thomas Nelson)
ISBN: 978-1401685942
November 2013/320 pages/$15.99

Anna’s grandfather seems determined to ruin her Rumspringa . . . and any hopes she has of finding a husband.

Anna Byler should be enjoying her Rumspringa as allowed by her faith. But because of the strict rules enforced by her grandfather—the bishop—the available suitors in town are afraid to court her. Even Anna’s grandmother is keeping a big secret from Anna’s grandfather in an effort to keep the peace. Under her grandfather’s oppressive watch, Anna begins to feel her faith slipping and wonders if God has forsaken her.

Jacob Hostetler and his family have relocated to Lancaster County following a family tragedy in Ohio. As his family struggles to rebuild their lives, Jacob is forced to act as head of the household when his father is unable to cope with recent events. It’s been a long time since Jacob has felt any joy. Until he meets Anna Byler. But will Anna’s grandfather succeed at keeping them apart? And can Jacob put the past behind him and open his heart?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Beth is a Carol Award Winner, Inspirational Readers Choice Winner, INSPY Winner, and the best-selling author of the Daughters of the Promise series and the Land of Canaan series. All of her books have held spots on the ECPA (Evangelical Christian Publishers Association) bestseller list and the CBA (Christian Book Association) bestseller list. She grew up in Houston, Texas and now resides in a small town west of Houston with a population of around 300. She lives with her husband, two dogs, two cats, two pot bellied pigs, two chickens and a pygmy goat. Her two grown sons also live in Texas. Beth has been writing in some capacity for most of her life. She’s a former award-winning journalist with eleven honors, including ‘First Place News Writing’ for The Texas Press Association. However, writing love stories with a spiritual message is where her heart is. When Beth isn’t writing (which is seldom these days) she enjoys traveling, cooking, fishing, reading, or just settling in for a good movie. Her best times are spent with family and friends! Find out more about Beth at bethwiseman.com and on Facebook and Twitter.

MY THOUGHTS

I've been enjoying Beth Wiseman's books from the time I "randomly" picked up her debut novel at a bookstore and and discovered we graduated from the same high school and lived on adjacent streets! Plain Peace concludes her Daughters of the Promise series, and I enjoyed returning to Paradise, Pennsylvania to read the story of Anna and Jacob. Wiseman's Amish novels always have a unique spin to them and this one is no different. Anna's grandmother is not at all what one would expect for the wife of the ramrod-strict bishop's wife. Endearing characters touched my heart in this tale that transcends genres and demonstrates the commonality of life's challenges. I especially liked Wiseman's portrayal of Lucy and her desire to start anew after her previous sins. . .as well as the honest struggles wrestled with by many in the community as they worked to offer her forgiveness and acceptance. A story of love and grace, forgiveness and healing, Plain Peace is, simply, plain good!




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a digital copy of this book from Thomas Nelson & 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.”

A Tired Hodgepodge

1. My sister is celebrating a birthday today. Happy Birthday little sis! What's one way you're like your siblings? If you don't have siblings how are you like your lifelong best friend or cousin?

We are all tall. We all are/were fairly driven and excelled in whatever jobs we've had.

2. What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of yourself at age eighteen?

Introvert.

3. Sculptor-actor-painter-dancer...if you could excel in one of these arts, which would you choose and why?

I guess painter. I would like to be more artistic and be able to draw/paint something that is recognizable.

4. What's a scent that takes you back in time, and where does it take you?

Freshly mowed grass takes me back to the summers of my childhood.

5. November is for Peanut Butter Lovers (National Peanut Butter Lovers Month). Are you a lover or a hater? What's your favorite dish/recipe that calls for peanut butter?

I neither love nor hate peanut butter. I like it fine but get burned out on it fairly quickly. Peanut butter cookies are good but they are no match for chocolate chip cookies.

6. What do people thank you personally for most often?

Doing little things for them.

7. What event this year are you most thankful for?

My job.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I am posting super late this week. Working these twelve-hour shifts and getting home exhausted at 11:00 pm is reminding me that I am not 23 anymore! LOL

12 Days of Christmas Blog Tour with Colleen Coble, Tricia Goyer, and Beth Wiseman

Welcome to the 12 Days of Christmas with your hosts Colleen Coble, Tricia Goyer, and Beth Wiseman! Learn more about each of their books as well as a host of other titles to ring in the Christmas spirit and warm your heart.
HarperCollins Christian is giving away 10 copies of 12 different books each day between November 1-12th. Then on the 12th join Colleen, Tricia and Beth for a merry Facebook party {5pm Pacific / 8pm Eastern} and ring in the holiday season.

ENTER each day's giveaway here.

RSVP for the party here!

Good luck! Hope to see you on the evening of the 12th!

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Here's another peek at Tricia Goyer's Christmas novella, which I featured last month.

A Christmas Gift for Rose
Tricia Goyer
(Zondervan)
ISBN: 978-0310336785
September 2013/192 pages/Hardcover/$15.99
Inspired by a true story, A Christmas Gift for Rose is a heartwarming novella of sacrifice and deep love.

Born in the midst of the hardships of The Great Depression, Rose grew up in Berlin, Ohio, in the arms of a loving Amish family. But she is overwhelmed by self-doubt when she learns the truth of her birth. She was born Englisch and abandoned when her family moved West in search of work. Was she meant to be Amish or would she have been better off growing up with her own kind—Englischers? And was her intended’s gift of discovering her birth family given out of love or fear?

Don’t miss award-winning author Tricia Goyer’s first Christmas novella.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

USA Today best-selling author Tricia Goyer is the author of over 35 books, including the three-book Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and Lead Your Family Like Jesus, (co-written with Ken Blanchard). She has written over 500 articles for national publications and blogs for high traffic sites like TheBetterMom.com and MomLifeToday.com. She is the host of Living Inspired, a weekly radio show. Tricia and family live in Little Rock, Arkansas. They have six children. You can find out more about Tricia at www.TriciaGoyer.com.


MY THOUGHTS

Goyer's Amish stories always have a unique twist to them and this one is no exception. In spite of this being a novella, Goyer succeeds in crafting a story with several layers. Rose's black-and-white worldview is turned upside down when she discovers that she was born into an Englisch family, and her crises of identity and faith are well-portrayed, as are the angst and confusion she she experiences regarding the return of the man she always planned to marry and the role he played in World War II, which ran counter to everything she believes in. This is a heartwarming story to add to your Christmas collection.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Zondervan and Litfuse Publicity Group 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.”

12 Days of Christmas Blog Tour with Colleen Coble, Tricia Goyer, and Beth Wiseman

Welcome to the 12 Days of Christmas with your hosts Colleen Coble, Tricia Goyer, and Beth Wiseman! Learn more about each of their books as well as a host of other titles to ring in the Christmas spirit and warm your heart.

HarperCollins Christian is giving away 10 copies of 12 different books each day between November 1-12th. Then on the 12th join Colleen, Tricia and Beth for a merry Facebook party {5pm Pacific / 8pm Eastern} and ring in the holiday season.

ENTER each day's giveaway here.

RSVP for the party here!

Good luck! Hope to see you on the evening of the 12th!

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Today I'm featuring two Christmas novellas by Colleen Coble as part of the 12 Days of Christmas Blog Tour.

Holy Night:
An Aloha Reef Christmas Novella
(Aloha Reef Series)
Colleen Coble
ASIN: B00FXXWWOG
November 2013/141 pages/$1.99 (Kindle)
One sinister phone call has derailed their wedding.

Will they let it tear them apart forever?

A Christmas wedding on the beach—what could be more perfect? Poinsettias and fragrant pikake blossoms, soft sand and mistletoe, the gentle sound of the surf and the wedding march played on a ukulele. This wedding has been a long time coming, with Bane’s trust issues and Leia’s worries about her childlike sister, Eva.

Now they can hardly wait for the day to arrive. Thrilled to be a bridesmaid, Eva keeps trying on her ruffled dress. The tent is reserved, the caterers paid. Everything is going as planned—until Leia’s phone rings and her world skids out of control. A muffled voice informs Leia that Eva’s been kidnapped and will be killed unless Leia calls off the wedding without explanation—and no police! If she disobeys instructions and tells Bane, she’ll risk her beloved sister’s life. But how can she ever handle this without his help? And how can he ever trust her if she lies to him now?

Irresistible romance meets thrilling suspense in this holiday update to USA Today best-selling author COLLEEN COBLE’s best-selling Aloha Reef series.

MY THOUGHTS

I love Christmas novellas and books by Colleen Coble so combining the two is a win-win! I have not read any of the Aloha Reef series, but thoroughly enjoyed this novella. In her trademark style, Coble expertly weaves romance and suspense into a story that also highlights how past hurts can impact current relationships. A great read for a copy evening!

Silent Night:
A Rock Harbor Christmas Novella
(Rock Harbor Series)
Colleen Coble
ASIN: B00A29R22I
November 2012/141 pages/$2.99 (Kindle)
As Christmas day nears, Bree and her faithful search-and-rescue dog Samson follow the trail of a troubling mystery into the snowy forests of Rock Harbor.

Bree Matthews is preparing for Christmas guests, but her heart is reeling from the recent and tender loss of her unborn child. Her sister-in-law, Lauri, suddenly turns up on the doorstep of the lighthouse home Bree shares with her husband, Kade, in Rock Harbor. Secretive and withdrawn, Lauri seems curiously intent on discovering what happened to a parachuter who disappeared in the North Woods along Lake Superior’s icy shore.

As Bree and Samson, her search-and-rescue dog, plunge into the search, Bree wonders if Lauri may know more than she’s admitted about the parachuter. And then the clues lead them to the trail of a young woman whose family fears the worst about her disappearance.

Will the search on this snowy, silent night lead Bree and Samson to more than clues about the missing girl? And will Bree’s prayer for a baby ever be answered?

MY THOUGHTS

As I began reading this book, it seemed really familiar, then I realized I had purchased it last year when it came out! No worries, though; it was just as enjoyable the second time around! Colleen Coble's Rock Harbor series is well-loved by her readers, and it was a delight to revisit Bree and her family and see her on the trail with her SAR dog Samson. This is a perfect read for a cold night by the fireplace. I can't imagine traipsing through the snow like Bree and Samson do during their searches and was happy to be warm while I read. Start your holiday season off with this heart-warming novella.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Best-selling author Colleen Coble’s novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, ACFW Book of the Year, RWA’s RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers’ Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has nearly 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers and is a member of Romance Writers of America. She lives with her husband, Dave, in Indiana.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a digital copy of these books from Thomas Nelson & 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.”

November New Releases!

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

Contemporary Romance:

A Marriage in Middlebury by Anita Higman -- A Marriage in Middlebury is a love story, but it's also a story about the complex, quirky, and sometimes prickly interworkings of the folks who frequent the local tearoom in Middlebury, Texas. (Contemporary Romance from Abingdon Press)

The Christmas Promise by Kimberly Rose Johnson -- Dr. Pete Harding doesn't date single moms, no matter how lovely Keira Noble's smile, or how adorable her four-year-old son. He's been down that road before and knows it can lead to a broken heart. But that doesn't mean he can't help the pretty widow find a puppy to put under the Christmas tree for her son.... Pete claims he only wants to help her find the perfect gift for Cody. Yet Keira can't deny the tender feelings in his eyes whenever he looks at her. Could this handsome Scrooge have a change of heart, and create a new family for Christmas? (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents)

Silver Bells by Deobrah Raney -- As Elvis croons from the radio and Christmas descends upon a small Kansas town, two people find the miracle of love. (Contemporary Romance from Summerside Press [Guideposts])

Rodeo Queen by Shannon Taylor Vannatter -- When her safe life is shattered by danger, can he protect her long enough to reclaim her heart? (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents)

Plain Peace by Beth Wiseman -- Anna's grandfather seems determined to ruin her Rumspringa . . . and any hopes she has of finding a husband. (Contemporary Romance from Thomas Nelson)

Contemporary:

Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay -- Samantha Moore must stop hiding behind literary characters, such as Elizabeth Bennet and Jane Eyre, in order to find her true self and true love. (Contemporary from Thomas Nelson)

Romance:

Aloha Rose by Lisa Carter -- Can Laney overcome her fears of rejection and Kai move past the tragedies of the past to find in each other more than they ever dreamed? (Romance from Abingdon Press)

Historical:

By the Waters of Kadesh by Carole Towriss -- Moses sends spies to explore the mysterious land of Canaan, but when ten of the twelve return with a bad report, all Israel, including a former Egyptian soldier and a young widow, must deal with the unexpected and terrifying fallout. (Historical from DeWard Publishing)

Middle Grade:

Hear No Evil by Mary L. Hamilton-- Summer camp is no fun for Brady McCaul. The girl with the cute dimples thinks he's immature and childish. The camp bully targets him with cruel taunts and teasing, and flips Brady's canoe to keep him from winning the race. But worst of all, his mom won't let him come home. She doesn't want him living with her anymore. Brady wonders if even God cares about him. Can Brady figure out what he did to earn Mom's rejection and change her mind by week's end? Or will he have to live with his workaholic dad, the guy who left when Brady was seven? (Middle-Grade from HopeSprings Books)

Suspense/Thriller:

The Truth Revealed by Deborah Lynne -- The Truth Revealed is a suspenseful page turner about two missing kids and Samantha Cain is trying to help find them before their time runs out. (Suspense/Thriller from OakTara)

Young Adult:

Outcasts (The Safe Lands) by Jill Williamson -- The remnant from Glenrock is now living as rebels within the Safe Lands, looking for a way to find purpose in their lives. When a young rebel is murdered and his death points to a rebel leader, it's hard to know who to trust. Levi tries to organize a plan to free the children and fights for respect as elder over those who'd rather go their own way. Omar tries to change his image of a traitor by donning a costume and going out into the night as a vigilante hero. And Mason stumbles onto a shocking secret about the Safe Lands meds, but his investigation just might get them all liberated. (Young Adult from Zondervan)