Deadly Diseases and a Fun Giveaway!

Ronie Kendig's latest release, Conspiracy of Silence released earlier this month to rave reviews--including mine! The perfect way to use that gift card you received for Christmas, this inTOXicating novel will keep you turning pages late into the night.

Tox and his team race to find a cure for a deadly, centuries-old disease that has been released. As a nurse, I couldn't resist focusing my feature on the subject of bioterrorism. According to the National Institute of Health, a bioterrorism attack is the deliberate release of viruses, bacteria, or other germs to cause illness or death. These are generally spread through the air, by contamination of water or food, by animals, or by person-to-person contact.

The U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) has an extensive website that provides research, education, scientific publications, and resources regarding biological warfare. I was fascinated by the brief history, which dates as far back as the sixth century BC, when water sources were poisoned with rye ergot by the Assyrians and with the herb hellibore by the Greek general Solon. ("History of Biological Warfare and the Current Threat," USAMRIID's Medical Management of Biological Casualties Handbook--8th Edition, September 2014, p. 3)

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is another resource. A list of specific Bioterrorism Agents/Diseases is available, as well as General Fact Sheets on Specific Agents:

• Anthrax
• Botulism
• Brucellosis
• Plague
• Smallpox
• Tularemia
• Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers

The CDC's Bioterrorism Readiness Plan: A Template for Healthcare Facilities details steps to be taken in the event of a a suspected bioterrorism event. While many of their guidelines are general and apply to any situation, they also delineate Agent-Specific Recommendations for the following:

• Anthrax
• Botulism
• Plague
• Smallpox

Biological warfare is a serious subject and one that arises often in the news in today's war-torn world. However, those who place their trust in God and his sovereignty need not fear what man can do on earth.

Don't miss Conspiracy of Silence, and check out this awesome giveaway from Ronie Kendig!

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A Baxter Family Christmas

A Baxter Family Christmas
Karen Kingsbury
(Simon & Schuster/Howard Books)
ISBN: 978-1451687569
272 pages/October 2016/$19.99 Hardcover
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury comes A Baxter Family Christmas, a life-changing story of love and hope featuring the Baxter family.

Whether you’re meeting the Baxter family for the first time, or finding them all over again...A Baxter Family Christmas will leave fingerprints on your heart forever.

Two years have passed since the terrible car accident that took the life of John Baxter’s daughter, Erin, her husband and three of their four daughters. Prompted by grief, and missing his daughter, John has invited a stranger for Christmas Eve dinner—Kendra Bryant, the transplant recipient who now has Erin’s heart.

In light of their father’s idea, Ashley and her brother Luke don’t think it’s right. They want to protect their ten-year-old niece, Amy—the only surviving member of the accident. But John is determined and believes meeting this woman is something his deceased daughter would want.

At the same time, Maddie West, the eighteen-year-old daughter of Brooke Baxter West, is praying for meaning this Christmas. Could she find it in a newfound friendship with a boy she never expected to see again? Maddie believes in miracles, especially at Christmastime, but this is a stretch even she can’t imagine.

Meanwhile, Kendra Bryant has been struggling these past few years to find purpose in the tragedy that gave her a second chance. She believes the invitation to see the Baxters and witness their unwavering faith in God can instill peace and happiness back into her life.

Heartwarming and touching, filled with love and redemption, A Baxter Family Christmas brings together two families in the aftermath of loss and in the midst of an unfolding love story, all with the help of one very special child.





ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Karen Kingsbury, #1 New York Times bestselling novelist, is America’s favorite inspirational storyteller, with more than twenty-five million copies of her award-winning books in print. Her last dozen titles have topped bestseller lists and many of her novels are under development with Hallmark Films and as major motion pictures. She lives in Tennessee with her husband, Don, and their five sons, three of whom are adopted from Haiti. Their actress daughter, Kelsey, lives nearby and is married to Christian recording artist Kyle Kupecky. The couple recently welcomed their first child, Hudson.

MY THOUGHTS

I have only read one of Karen Kingsbury's books in the past but since I love Christmas novellas, I decided to give this one a try when it landed in my mailbox. Kingsbury has written a heart-wrenching tale that will delight fans of her Baxter Family series who eager to catch up with these much-loved characters. The grief that the family has experienced will resonate with many who dread facing the holidays due to an empty chair at the table. This novella is a quick and easy read but personally, I was a bit disappointed as I found parts of it unrealistic and simplistic in regards to grief. Many of her long-time fans rave about it, however, so check it out and decide for yourself!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an advanced digital copy of this book free from Simon and Schuster/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.”

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The Angel of Forest Hill

The Angel of Forest Hill
An Amish Christmas Romance
Cindy Woodsmall
(WaterBrook)
ISBN: 978-1601427052
October 2016/208 pages/$14.99

A time of anticipation. A season of miracles.

Because of Joel’s impossible situation, twenty-one-year-old Rose must sacrifice everything. As days pass into years in the midst of the beautiful hills, the laughter of children, and God’s providence—is it too much for Rose to hope for love in return?

An amazing journey toward love and belonging, filled with the wonder of the season of Christ’s birth.

When Old Order Amish Rose Kurtz is asked to leave her family, travel deep into West Vir­ginia, and help Joel Dienner with his children in the wake of tragedy, the quiet young woman recognizes a home where she might find kindness instead of criticism and hope replacing harsh words. She agrees to stay in Forest Hill and become Joel’s wife for the sake of his family needs, but their marriage is to be a partnership, one built from need, not love and affection.

As the years pass, Rose continues to beckon Joel to join life again, to take joy in his growing children, and to awaken his heart to the possibility of new love. Joel hopes that Rose can move beyond deep-rooted hurts to see the beautiful Christmas ahead, their season. But will the arrival of a beautiful widow and a series of misunderstandings reverse how far Rose and Joel have come?


Read the first chapter.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times and CBA best-selling author of numerous works of fiction and one of nonfiction. Her connection with the Amish community has been featured widely in national media. She lives in the Foothills of the North Georgia Mountains with her family. Learn more at her website and connect with her on Facebook and Twitter.


MY THOUGHTS

I love Christmas novellas and this is a perfect one to read next to the tree with your favorite hot drink! Cindy Woodsmall creates a heartwarming story that touches the heart. As a well-known, best-selling author of Amish fiction, she expertly crafts characters and settings that draw the reader into the story. I ached for Rose and Joel and the hurts they experienced, although those are what brought them together in their sudden marriage of convenience. Woodsmall weaves a tender tale of love and new beginnings wrapped in the beauty of Christmas. Don't miss The Angel of Forest Hill!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an advanced digital copy of this book free from WaterBrook/Multnomah. 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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Hazardous Holiday

Hazardous Holiday
(Men of Valor, Book 5)
Liz Johnson
Love Inspired Suspense
ISBN: 978-0373447862
December 2016/224 pages/$5.99
PROTECTING HIS FAMILY

Just in time for the holidays, navy SEAL Zach McCloud returns home from deployment—and discovers someone wants his family dead. When he married his cousin’s struggling widow, he vowed to help her and her seriously ill son, and now he’ll risk everything to protect them. Even if their arrangement is only temporary. Kristi’s certain an unhappy client from the law firm where she works is determined to hunt her down. But when a sniper bullet wildly misses its target, they begin to question whether it’s really her someone wants dead. Working together, can they figure out why they’ve been attacked…and keep little Cody from the nefarious forces dead set on making this Christmas their last?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

By day Liz Johnson is a marketing manager for a Christian publisher. By night she makes up her own love stories. She is the author of seven novels, a New York Times bestselling novella, and a handful of short Christmas stories. She’s also a two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist.

Liz is a graduate of Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, where she earned a degree in public relations.

Now a resident of Nashville, she enjoys exploring local music, theater, and history of Middle Tennesee. She also takes every chance she can to visit Arizona to dote on her nieces and nephews. She writes stories filled with heart, humor, and happily ever afters. Visit her website.


MY THOUGHTS

I love Liz Johnson's books! This one is a heart-stopping read in more ways than one! My mistake was tucking this in my purse and reading it while waiting for an appointment; it was perhaps the first time I was unhappy to hear my name called because I had to stop reading mid-scene! Zach, Kristi, and Cody immediately wrapped themselves around my heart. Of course, as a nurse, I loved the medical angle of the story. Johnson packs a lot into this small volume: pulse-pounding danger, raw grief, fierce protectiveness, and tender love, weaving it all together in a gasp-inducing story that kept me turning pages as fast as I could. Perfect as a stocking stuffer or a gift for your own enjoyment, Hazardous Holiday is a must-read!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an advanced digital copy of this book free from Love Inspired Suspense and Liz Johnson. 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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The Tox Files: A Chat with Ronie Kendig

Today is release day for Ronie Kendig's brand-new novel, Conspiracy of Silence! Believe me when I say that you do not want to miss this action-packed, fast-paced romantic suspense! Kendig is a brilliant author who somehow manages to outdo herself with each stunning release. Today I am pleased to share a brief chat with this gifted storyteller which has been provided by Bethany House publishers.

1. What makes your new series, The Tox Files, different from your previous novels?
In so many respects, The Tox Files is exactly what I’ve been writing all along—it’s fast-paced, action/adventure, and has a paramilitary team, a touch of romance, and a mission. But this new series brings to my Rapid-Fire Fiction an element that has made me very excited to write: ancient history. Interwoven into each mission is an artifact being used to wreak havoc. I’ve had so much fun writing this series, and I really believe readers will love these adventures!

2. Your novels feature multiple points of view and threads that weave into a compelling story. How do you pull it all together?
I confess it’s pretty challenging to pull all the threads together seamlessly (ha, see what I did there?), but the way I’ve attempted to leave no thread hanging unintentionally is by entering The Pit. Most of our basement is unfinished, so I had my husband hang grease boards all along one wall, screwing them into the studs. My brainstorming wall is where I plot the stories (something this seat-of-the-pants writer never thought she’d do) and lay out the various threads and how they should grow. It’s amazing to see it like that!

3. The Tox Files pits your main characters against some of history’s most ancient artifacts. What sort of research is involved in preparing for each story?
The Tox Files has stretched me as a writer more than any other series I’ve written, because the research is demanding and intense. However, God has really blessed me with some amazing contacts—archaeologists, doctors, theology professors, EOD techs. I want to get it write—er, right! I’ve had to study ancient history, and it’s amazing to learn about all the cultures and interweaving of beliefs and ramifications, wars, and controversies.

4. In The Warrior’s Seal, the e-novella prequel, you introduced a military working dog, and you own a retired MWD—is that a coincidence?
Oh, you caught that, did you? No, no coincidence at all. Two and a half years ago, our family adopted a retired military working dog named VVolt N629. As a patrol/explosives detection dog in the Air Force, VVolt was deployed to Kuwait and he has also done POTUS and FLOTUS detail. He’s an intense, focused, but quirky dog. And I could not resist the opportunity to give VVolt some fame in The Tox Files.

Click on the titles to read my reviews of Conspiracy of Silence and the FREE prequel novella, The Warrior's Seal.

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Conspiracy of -Silence - An InTOXicating Read!

Conspiracy of Silence
The Tox Files, Book 1
Ronie Kendig
(Bethany House Publishers)
ISBN: 978-0764217654
December 2016/416 pages/$14.99
This Is the Way the World Ends.

Four years after a tragic mission decimated his team, Cole "Tox" Russell has been disavowed by the United States. And that's fine--he just wants to be left alone. But when a dormant, centuries-old disease is unleashed, Tox is lured back into action.

Tox and his former Special Forces team regroup to work with FBI deception expert, Kasey Cortes, and fiery archaeologist, Tzivia Khalon, to search the globe for answers--and a cure. As the mission leads from one continent to another, it becomes clear they're not just fighting a plague but battling an ancient secret society whose true goals remain hidden.

With time running out and the threat for a global pandemic rising, Tox and his team realize their sole chance might be to reach back through centuries of silence to find the only answer that can save them all.


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ronie Kendig is an award-winning, bestselling author who grew up an Army brat. She's penned over a dozen novels, including The Quiet Professionals series and the A Breed Apart series. She and her hunky hero hubby have a fun, crazy life with their children and a retired military working dog in Northern Virginia. Learn more about Ronie at her website and connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.


MY THOUGHTS

Each time I open the newest release by Ronie Kendig, part of me wonders how she can possibly come up with something to top her previous novel. I still don't know how she manages it, but Conspiracy of Silence stands apart as her most intense and action-backed offering to date! Kendig charts new territory as she taps into ancient history, expanding the Special Forces team's mission into a battle that transcends modern weaponry. This is not a book to be read casually, a chapter at a time. In fact, I recommend taking a deep breath before you start because you might not take another before the final page is turned! Dodging bullets and racing for helos are just a few of the dangers the team faces. Hearts are also on the line, and Kendig excels at creating romantic tension with her rapid-fire dialogue and expertly crafted scenes. Lovers of Kendig's A Breed Apart series will delight in the team's use of a military working dog on their mission. A perfect gift, this novel comes in just the right size for any book lover on your list. A Conspiracy of Silence is so, so good; in fact, I'd say it's a bit inTOXcating!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an advanced digital copy of this book free from Baker/Bethany House Publishers and Ronie Kendig. 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.”


BONUS!! Don't miss the FREE prequel novella, The Warrior's Seal, which I reviewed here!

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Fill Your Stocking with December Releases from ACFW Authors!

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

Contemporary Romance:

Bella Natale! by Marianne Evans -- An aspiring American artist and the widowed, Italian owner of a premier art gallery meet and fall in love in Florence when he champions her work, but there are her American family's expectations and his five-year-old son to consider. (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

With this Kiss by Marianne Evans -- A kiss stolen in a midnight snow. A jealous colleague at Jonathan's firm is bent on revenge...revenge that puts Isabella's store into legal peril. Will love be enough to see them through? (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

Mistletoe Daddy by Deb Kastner -- Bubbly Vivian Grainger bids on gruff Nick McKenna at Serendipity Texas's annual Bachelors and Baskets for one reason--to help her build her hair salon; but once Nick finds out she's pregnant, he does his best to build a path to Vivian's heart. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

A Hero for Heather by Marion Ueckermann -- When a "homeless" man she's been helping rescues social worker Heather Blume from a vicious attack, she's so grateful she violates one of the most important rules in her profession--she takes him home to tend his wounds. But the mysterious Paxton Rathbone is no homeless man…he's a gentleman. When feelings grow, and Paxton's past beckons, both he and Heather discover there's a fine line between gratitude and love. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

A Husband for Holly by Marion Ueckermann -- Holly Blume loves decorating people's homes, but that doesn't mean she's ready to play house. Believing a house is not a home without a woman's touch, Reverend Christopher Stewart is in the market for a wife. What woman would consider him marriage material, though, with an aging widowed father to look after, especially one who suffers from Alzheimer's? Despite their differences, Holly resolves to finish her job of redesigning the Stewart home, while Christopher determines to re-form Holly's heart. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Rocky Mountain Cowboy by Tina Radcliffe -- Twelve years after she married another man, Rebecca Anshaw Simpson is back at Joe Gallagher's ranch as his physical therapist. But healing his body is nothing compared to guarding his heart from the woman he never forgot. Becca won't let regret and a surly rancher get in the way of her job and the chance to start over with her little girl. But Becca never expected she'd fall all over again for her first love. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Cozy Mystery:

Christmas Cookie Mystery by Naomi Miller -- With Christmas right around the corner, Katie Chupp and The Sweet Shop get involved in a mystery when a certain dear family finds an unexpected package at their door. (Cozy Mystery from S&G Publishing)

Historical:

Forgiven by Carol Ashby — Are some wounds too deep to forgive? With a ruthless father who murdered for the family inheritance, Marcus Drusus plans to do the same. In AD 122, Marcus follows his brother Lucius to Judaea and plots to frame a zealot for his older brother’s death. But the plan goes awry, and Lucius is rescued by a Messianic Jewish woman. Her oldest brother is a zealot and a Roman soldier killed her twin, but Rachel still persuades her father Joseph to put his love for Jesus above his anger with Rome and hide Lucius until he heals. Rachel cares for the enemy, and more than broken bones heal as duty turns to love. Lucius embraces Joseph’s faith in Jesus, but sharing a faith doesn’t heal all wounds. Even before revealed secrets slice open old scars, Joseph wants no Roman son-in-law. With Rachel’s zealot brother suspecting he’s a Roman officer and his own brother planning to kill him when he returns, can Lucius survive long enough to change Joseph’s mind?(Historical/Bibilical Fiction from Cerrillo Press)

Michel: The Fourth Wise Man by Katheryn Maddox Haddad -- This descendant of Daniel, also a wise man, sacrifices everything - his wife, his father, his home - to do what he is convinced God needs him to do, then finds out he was wrong. (Historical from Northern Lights Publishing House)

Five Nights with Pharaoh by Kristen Reed -- Shortly after entering Egypt with her husband, Sarai is taken into Pharaoh’s harem as his newest, most favored concubine. The breathtaking, ageless beauty is forced to cling to her faith in God as she prays for the strength to accept her new position and endures a series of mysterious plagues that can only be indicative of a wrathful deity’s divine judgment. Discover a remarkable reimagining of Sarai’s plight in Egypt, where she humbly set aside her own honor to protect the man through whom all the nations of the earth would be blessed. (Historical - Independently Published)

Historical Romance:

Seven Brides for Seven Texans Romance Collection by Amanda Barratt, Susan Page Davis, Keli Gwyn, Vickie McDonough, Gabrielle Meyer, Lorna Leslie Seilstad, Erica Vetsch -- Meet the seven Hart brothers of the 7-Heart ranch in central Texas. Each man is content in his independent life, without the responsibilities of a wife and children--until their father decides 1874 will be the year his grown sons finally marry, or they will be cut from his will. How will each man who values his freedom respond to the ultimatum? Can love develop on a timeline, or will it be sacrificed for the sake of an inheritance? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

A Pony Express Romance by Misty M. Beller -- Pony Express rider Josiah English and the station master's sister, Mara Reid, fall in love, but when the Express shuts down and Mara's family home is in peril, the danger looming over Mara's life may not be half as destructive as that threatening her heart. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Military Suspense:

Conspiracy of Silence by Ronie Kendig -- A former Green Beret is confronted by past mistakes as he and his team battle a centuries-old plague and the terrorists bent on rewriting history. (Military Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])

Romantic Suspense:

Hazardous Holiday by Liz Johnson -- Just in time for the holidays, navy SEAL Zach McCloud returns home from deployment--and discovers someone wants his family dead. When he married his cousin's struggling widow, he vowed to help her and her seriously ill son, and now he'll risk everything to protect them. Even if their arrangement is only temporary. Kristi's certain an unhappy client from the law firm where she works is determined to hunt her down. But when a sniper bullet wildly misses its target, they begin to question whether it's really her someone wants dead. Working together, can they figure out why they've been attacked…and keep little Cody from the nefarious forces dead set on making this Christmas their last? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Christmas Conspiracy by Susan Sleeman -- When Commander Jake Marsh loses control of a hostage situation and Tessa Long is injured, guilt eats at him. He blurs the line between the professional and personal, and visits Tessa at the hospital. But when a man tries to kill her in her hospital room, Jake disregards all of the rules and regulations that have allowed him to control his world and vows to keep her safe no matter what. Trouble is, the situation brings back memories from his childhood of the loss of his entire family, and for the first time in twenty years, he fears he's no longer in charge of his life, and knows when he's out of control bad things happen. Very bad things. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

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Fatal Frost

Fatal Frost
Defenders of Justice, Book 1
Nancy Mehl
(Bethany House)
ISBN: 978-0764217777
November 2016/304 pages/$14.99
Following in her absentee father's footsteps in a law enforcement career, U.S. Marshal Mercy Brennan has just recovered from being shot in the line of duty. And, unbeknownst to her, her father's recent reappearance in her life has put her in the sights of St. Louis's most powerful gang. Her boss assigns Deputy U.S. Marshal Mark St. Laurent--Mercy's ex-boyfriend--to get her out of town until her safety can be guaranteed.

Unaware of the extent her boss and Mark have been keeping her in the dark, it isn't until a freak ice storm strands them at a remote location and out of contact with the district office that the full severity of their situation becomes clear. As the storm worsens, the forces of nature combine with a deadly enemy to put them in great danger. Can they survive long enough for help to arrive--if help is even coming at all?


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nancy Mehl is the author of twenty-one books, including the Road to Kingdom and Finding Sanctuary series. Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson. Visit www.nancymehl.com to learn more.

MY THOUGHTS

Nancy Mehl is at the top of her game with this riveting suspense. Fatal Frost captured my attention with the opening paragraphs and didn't let go until the final page was turned. Mehl creates compelling characters with depth. Mercy's tough exterior on the job belies a tender heart that never recovered from the abandonment of her father. Plenty of twists, turns, and surprises keep the reader guessing as Mercy and her partner, Tally, play a deadly cat-and-mouse game with a notorious gang. Mehl creates another formidable foe in the weather, making the suspense that much more....chilling! (Sorry! Couldn't resist that one!) Read this one by the fireplace or under a blanket with a mug of your favorite hot brew, but don't miss Fatal Frost!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a digital copy of this book free from Baker/Bethany House Publishers. 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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The Pattern Artist

The Pattern Artist
Nancy Moser
(Shiloh Run Press)
ISBN: 978-1634097925
December 2016/320 pages/$14.99
Born into a life of hard work, English housemaid Annie Wood arrives in New York City in 1911 with her wealthy mistress. Wide-eyed with the possibilities America has to offer, Annie wonders if there’s more for her than a life of service. Annie chooses to risk everything, taps into courage she never knew she had, and goes off on her own, finding employment in the sewing department at Macy’s. While at Macy’s Annie catches the eye of a salesman at the Butterick Pattern Company. Through determination, hard work, and God’s leading, Annie discovers a hidden gift: she is a talented fashion designer—a pattern artist of the highest degree. As she runs from ghosts of the past and focuses on the future, Annie enters a creative world that takes her to the fashion houses of Paris and into a life of adventure, purpose, and love.


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nancy Moser is an award-winning author of over twenty-five novels that share a common message: we each have a unique purpose—the trick is to find out what it is. Her genres include contemporary and historical novels including Love of the Summerfields, Mozart’s Sister, The Invitation, and the Christy Award-winning Time Lottery. She is a fan of anything antique—humans included. www.nancymoser.com.


MY THOUGHTS

As a fan of Nancy Moser's previous books, and having spent many hours during my growing-up years perusing various pattern books, including Butterick, with my mom who sewed all of my clothes, I couldn't resist signing up to review this book. Moser merges fiction and fact into a fascinating tale that portrays the transition from servant girl to independent working girl experienced by Annie Wood. As with her previous books, Moser creates fabulous characters and seamlessly intertwines them with actual historical personalities. I admired Annie's spunk and courage as well as her loyalty toward her friends. A thread of danger, a bit of heartache, and a hint of love add to the emotion of the story, and I felt each of them right along with Annie. Moser includes a faith message befitting the story that is neither forced nor intrusive. Don't miss The Pattern Artist - a perfect fit for your reading list!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a digital copy of this book free from Barbour Publishing/Shiloh Run Press & NetGalley 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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Long Way Gone

Long Way Gone
Charles Martin
(Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson)
ISBN: 978-0718084714
October 2016/320 pages/$25.00/$12.99 Hardcover/ebook
“No matter where you go, no matter whether you succeed or fail, stand or fall, no gone is too far gone. You can always come home.”


Cooper O’Connor was a long way from home—both geographically and from the damage he caused. Now that he’s back, is healing possible?

At the age of eighteen, musician and songwriter Cooper O’Connor took everything his father held dear and drove 1,200 miles from home to Nashville, his life riding on a six-string guitar and the bold wager that he had talent. But his wager soon proved foolish.

Five years after losing everything, he falls in love with Daley Cross, an angelic voice in need of a song. But just as he realizes his love for Daley, Cooper faces a tragedy that threatens his life as well as his career. With nowhere else to go, he returns home to the remote Colorado mountains, searching for answers about his father and his faith.

When Daley shows up on his street corner twenty years later, he wonders if it’s too late to tell her the truth about his past—and if he is ready to face it himself.

A radical retelling of the prodigal son story, Long Way Gone takes us from tent revivals to the Ryman Auditorium to the tender relationship between a broken man and the father who never stopped calling him home.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Charles Martin is the New York Times bestselling author of 12 novels. He and his wife, Christy, live in Jacksonville, Florida. Learn more about him at his website: charlesmartinbooks.com,
Facebook: Author.Charles.Martin, or
Twitter: @storiedcareer.

MY THOUGHTS

Charles Martin is a master storyteller, as his multiple bestseller status proves, and I know I will be captivated when I begin one of his novels. Long Way Gone, however, exceeded all of my expectations. As someone old enough to remember going to tent revivals as a child, as well as a lover of music, I connected with the setting of this story. Yet it is the unforgettable characters that have stayed with me long after I turned the final page. While the story is told in first person from Cooper's perspective, the steadfast love of his father makes this story shine. I'd suggest keeping a tissue or two handy as you read. And don't miss the afterword. An exceptional novel with an important message, Long Way Gone is a must-read and would make a great gift.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a digital copy of this book free from Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson 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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Giver of Wonders

Giver of Wonders
Roseanna M. White
(WhiteFire Publishing)
ISBN: 978-1939023834
November 2016/266 pages/$14.99
A miracle once saved her life ~ will another give her a future?

Cyprus was little more than a child when a fall left her paralyzed...and when the boy known as the wonder-worker healed her. Ever since, she has wondered why the Lord spared her, what he has in store for her. But her pagan father thinks she was spared solely so she could be introduced to the wealthy wonder-worker, Nikolaos.

Nikolaos has never questioned that his call in life is to dedicate himself to the church and to God. Never, that is, until he and his cousin Petros meet the compelling Cyprus Visibullis. For years he struggles with the feelings she inspires...and with the sure knowledge that Petros loves her too.

Petros knows he will never be good enough for Cyprus's father to consider him as a match for his favorite daughter not as long as Nikolaos is there. But when tragedy strikes the Visibullis family, he will do anything to save his beloved. Unfortunately, his beloved is determined to do anything to save her sisters ~ even at the cost of herself.

As the festival of lights bathes their Greek city in beauty, Cyprus, Petros, and Nikolaos celebrate the miracle of their Savior's birth together one last time. And in remembrance of their Lord's greatest gift, one of them will make the ultimate sacrifice for the others...and a centuries-long tradition will be born.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she's homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of nine novels, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to her new British series. Roseanna lives with her family in West Virginia. Learn more at her website.


MY THOUGHTS

Oh. My. This is a beautiful Christmas tale that sheds light on the man behind a much-loved tradition. Roseanna M. White's gift for bringing characters to life shines as she pens the story of Cyprus, Nikolaos and Petros. So many emotions filtered through me as I read this novel. Set in Greece in the years following the early church as persecution of Christians is rising, this novel ably portrays the heartbreaking and difficult circumstances that Cyprus and her friends face. My heart ached for Cyprus as she toiled in the shadow of her sisters while at the same time I marveled at the love she maintained for them, as well as for her father. White delivers a story that is simultaneously powerful and tender, an inspirational tale that will forever change how I view aspects of our Christmas celebrations. Reading Giver of Wonders should become a new holiday tradition in itself. Don't miss it!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a digital copy of this book free from WhiteFire 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.”

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Trust My Heart

Trust My Heart
Carol J. Post
(Waterfall Press)
ISBN: 978-1503937697
October 2016/272 pages/$12.95

Grant McAllister arrives in Murphy, North Carolina, with one aim: to sell his inherited property and leave as quickly as possible.

The big-city lawyer has no interest in his late, estranged grandparents or the dilapidated mansion he just acquired. After his high-profile divorce, he should be avoiding perky reporters, too. But Jami Carlisle is honest, funny, and undeniably appealing.

After breaking up with her safe-but-smothering boyfriend, Jami is determined to ace her first big assignment. A story about the McAllister estate is too intriguing to ignore—much like its handsome, commitment-phobic heir.
Thanks to her digging, the pieces of Grant’s fraught family history are gradually fitting into place, but also upending all his old beliefs.

The two draw closer as they share their dreams, until misread signals and misunderstandings begin to test their trust. But in the unspoiled beauty of the Smoky Mountains, there’s healing and forgiveness to be found. And for Grant, this unplanned detour may be just what’s needed to finally guide him home…


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

From medical secretary to court reporter to property manager to owner of a special-events decorating company, Carol J. Post’s résumé reads as if she hasn’t yet decided what she wants to be when she grows up. But one thing that has remained constant through the years is her love of writing. She started as a child composing poetry for family and friends, then graduated to articles for religious and children’s publications. Now she pens fun, fast-paced inspirational romance and romantic suspense stories. Her books have been nominated for an RT Reviewers’ Choice Best Book award and selected as an RT Top Pick. When Carol isn’t writing, she enjoys sailing, hiking, camping—almost anything outdoors. She also plays the piano and sings with her music-minister husband. Their two grown daughters and their grandkids live too far away for her liking, so she now pours all her nurturing into taking care of a fat and sassy black cat and a highly spoiled dachshund. Find out more about Carol J. at her website.



MY THOUGHTS

What an enjoyable book! I was not familiar with this author but was captivated by the story premise and was not disappointed. Carol Post creates realistic and likable characters in Jami and Grant, and I loved their interactions and repartee. Grant's inheritance from his grandparents after years of estrangement adds a bit of intrigue to this contemporary romance, and Jami's determination to interview Grant for her first newspaper article increases the charm factor. Love, trust, and forgiveness combine in this heartwarming contemporary romance.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Waterfall Press & 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.”


Will an unplanned detour finally guide Grant home and find love with an honest, funny, and undeniably appealing reporter named Jami? Find out in a heartwarming romance by Carol J. Post, Trust My Heart. Grant McAllister arrives in Murphy, North Carolina, with one aim: to sell his inherited property and leave as quickly as possible. After breaking up with her safe-but-smothering boyfriend, Jami is determined to ace her first big assignment. A story about the McAllister estate is too intriguing to ignore—but as the two draw closer as they share their dreams, misread signals and misunderstandings begin to test their trust.

Join Carol in celebrating the release of Trust My Heart by entering to win her $75 Cozy Cash Giveaway.

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Trust My Heart
• A $75 Visa cash card
• A basket full of goodies made in North Carolina to keep you cozy in the cooler fall weather

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below, but hurry! The giveaway ends on November 23. The winner will be announced November 28 on Carol's blog.

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