Against the Tide

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingAgainst the TideBethany House Publishers (October 1, 2012)byElizabeth Camden
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from Elizabeth:

I am a college librarian in central Florida by day, but by night I can be found pounding out inspirational historical novels the moment the sun goes down. I love writing books about fiercely intelligent people who are confronted with profound challenges. As a rather introverted person, I have found that writing is the best way for me to share my faith and a sense of resilience with others.

I married relatively late in life, which turned out to be an odd kind of blessing. I had gotten very good at leading a solo life, and although I was not particularly content being alone, I had become reconciled to it. Most importantly, it taught me never to take my husband for granted. I give daily thanks for the blessing of being able to share a life with my favorite person on the planet.

As for who I am? I love old Hitchcock films, the hour before sunset, a long, sweaty run through the Florida countryside, and a glass of good wine. After spending my entire adult life on a college campus (either as a student or a librarian) I have finally been able to pursue my ultimate goal of writing professionally.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Love and Lives are Threatened in Camden's Latest Offering

As a child, Lydia Pallas became all too familiar with uncertainty when it came to the future. Now, she's finally carved out a perfect life for herself--a life of stability and order with no changes, surprises, or chaos of any kind. She adores her apartment overlooking the bustling Boston Harbor, and her skill with languages has landed her a secure position as a translator for the U.S. Navy.

However, it is her talent for translation that brings her into contact with Alexander Banebridge, or "Bane," a man who equally attracts and aggravates her. When Bane hires Lydia to translate a seemingly innocuous collection of European documents, she hesitantly agrees, only to discover she is in over her head.

Just as Bane's charm begins to win her over, Lydia learns he is driven by a secret campaign against some of the most dangerous criminals on the East Coast, compelled by his faith and his past. Bane forbids any involvement on Lydia's part, but when the criminals gain the upper hand, it is Lydia on whom he must depend.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Against the Tide, go HERE.


MY THOUGHTS

Against All Odds is a book that will delight readers of several genres. It combines historical details with danger and suspense and is infused with a generous amount of romantic tension and witty repartee. Even as I read the heart-wrenching prologue, I was immediately drawn to Lydia. Bane was a bit of an enigma at first until I learned the reason for that. Camden's depiction of the evil in this novel is well-done and demonstrates how something seemingly innocuous can actually be deadly. Faith, courage, and love combine in this captivating story.

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Wednesday Hodgepodge

I'm joining Joyce From this Side of the Pond for the Wednesday Hodgepodge, as I do each week. We're inching ever so close to the centennial version; this is week #98!

1. Noah Webster was born this week back in 1758....besides the online version, do you own a dictionary? Do you ever use the hardback copy or is your hunt for a definition strictly online these days?

I'm sure those who have read my blog any length of time would not be surprised to know that I do have a dictionary! But I mostly use an online version these days, primarily because when i need it, I'm generally at the computer.

2. Should public schools ban Halloween celebrations? What about other holiday celebrations currently under fire?

We never had Halloween celebrations at school when I was growing up. I'm not opposed to the "fun" aspect of Halloween, but I don't really think it belongs at school. And certainly not in today's environment, with so much disparity in the type of costumes that kids wear. When I was little we had a ghost costume that my mom had made from a sheet and I think our witch costume was homemade, too. They were so innocuous; there was nothing like the sinister and grisly costumes you see now.

Regarding other holidays, I think there should be Christmas parties. (Fine, call it a Winter party; but don't toss out everything related to Christmas. It's way too extreme not to allow Christmas trees.) And a Valentine party. And pizza on the last day of school. Those are essentially the traditional "parties" for school, and I think that's plenty. The purpose of school is to learn, not party!

3. What's your favorite 'dog' movie?

Oh, I've always loved Benji! Especially because much of it was filmed in the little town in north Texas where some of my relatives lived.

There was also an old movie I remember watching on TV when I was a kid that I really liked called, Lad: A Dog.

4. When were you last somewhere you'd describe as 'too quiet'?

Probably at home when my girl was off spending the night with a friend!

5. Are you a neat cook or a messy cook? In other words do you clean as you go or make a big mess and then deal with it later?

Neat cook. My mom always made a huge mess and it took her forever to clean up the kitchen.

6. Did you hear about Felix Baumgartner, the skydiver who broke the sound barrier via parachute? Was your first thought COOL! or was your first thought CRAZY! Are you adventurous?

Mostly crazy. Not only because of the high risk that he wouldn't survive but becuase I HATE the downward sensation of falling. I'm fine with heights - take me up to the top of a skyscraper or in an airplane, but don't ask me to jump off a diving board! Of course, I'm glad folks have done some crazy things so that we have technological advances like cars and airplanes, etc. But I am not adventurous, so I'll let others live on the edge!

7. What's not a word but should be?

Ginormous. Fantabulous. And absotively posilutely.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I've always said you could put my name "in the hat" nine times and another person's name once, and they would win the drawing. That came to a screeching halt last night at my girl's orchestra concert/dinner when I won a generous gift certificate to a really nice restaurant in our area. Date night coming soon!

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Saving Gideon

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingSaving GideonB&H Books (October 1, 2012)byAmy Lillard
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from Amy:I’m a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.

I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I’ve retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I’m from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son–a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!

I love homemade tacos, shoes, and romance novels–not necessarily in that order. I’m a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I’m shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.

I believe that God is love. I guess that’s why I adore romances.

I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I’m a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that’s me June Cleaver with a laptop.

I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I’ll get to it or I won’t, either way I’m good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I’m alone on this last one, and again, I’m good with it.)

Favorite movies–(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940′s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven’t seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn’s and Audrey’s.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Gideon Fisher wants one thing out of life -- to be left alone. This is not the Amish way, but he’s devastated after the death of his wife and son to the point of losing his faith. He buys a farm on the outskirts of the district and pulls away from his community. But when a freak spring snowstorm brings a beautiful Englisher to his farm, what choice does Gideon have but to let her in?

Dallas socialite Avery Ann Hamilton is intrigued by the Amish farmer who pulls her out of the snow and into his austere lifestyle. Poor little rich girl, Avery has just gone through (yet another) bad breakup. Every man she meets only wants her for her father’s money. All she has ever wanted is to be loved for herself. Avery soon discovers the Oklahoma Amish country is the perfect place to hide out and heal her broken heart.

But she finds a peace in those back roads that she’s never felt before. Now her life has purpose and meaning as she connects with God and those around her. And there’s something more as she begins to care for this man who needs both love and forgiveness.

Gideon never wanted to live again much less fall in love, but Avery finds her way into his heart, showing him the beauty of life and God’s greatness. Yet as the feelings between Avery and Gideon grow, can they overcome their dissimilar lifestyles, or will their sheer differences pull them apart?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Saving Gideon, go HERE

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When Hope Blossoms

When Hope Blossoms
Kim Vogel Sawyer
(Bethany House)
ISBN: 978-0764207877
July 2012/350 pages/$14.99

Amy Knackstedt hopes a new start in Weaverly, Kansas, will help heal the pain of losing her husband and provide a better future for her three children. But her new neighbor, Tim Roper, is not pleased to have an Old Order Mennonite family living next to his apple orchard. Tim left the Mennonite faith years ago and doesn't want any reminders of his former life.

Yet when circumstances throw Amy and Tim together, they form a friendship that surprises them both. Will past hurts always be a barrier between them, or will this tentative relationship blossom into something more?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of nineteen novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women's fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and six grandchildren. She invites you to visit her Web site at www.kimvogelsawyer.com for more information.


MY THOUGHTS

Mea culpa for being so late on this review. Kim Sawyer is releasing a new book and I'm just now posting this one. (I thought I had already posted it.) When Hope Blossoms is a sweet book. I loved how Tim was determined to keep Amy and her family at arm's length, yet the children managed to work their way into his life and his heart. Full of honest emotions and experiences, this novel tugged at my heart. I particularly loved the portrayal of Bekah, Amy's thirteen-year-old daughter. Like most early teens, she vacillates between opposite emotions: experiencing typical teen frustrations and immaturity on one day and then on the next, displaying a surprising level of understanding and maturity. Sawyer has once again written a tale of faith, hope, and new beginnings that will warm your heart.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. 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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Life with Lily

Life with Lily
(The Adventures of Lily Lapp)
Mary Ann Kinsinger and
Suzanne Woods Fisher
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800721329
October 2012/288 pages/Ages 8 and up/$12.99
Lily is six years old, just starting first grade in a one-room schoolhouse in upstate New York. Her parents are busy building a farm, and soon animals join the family—Jenny the cow and Chubby the miniature horse. A baby brother arrives, too, which Lily has mixed feelings about. (She wanted a sister!) Aside from a mischievous friend like Mandy Mast, Lily is happy at school and even happier at home. Trouble is brewing at the schoolhouse and change is on the horizon for Lily and her family.

Read an excerpt.

Purchase a copy here.

Watch the trailer:

Be sure to visit the “Adventures of Lily Lapp” interactive website. The site is fun for all ages and loaded with games, downloadable coloring pages, Mama’s recipes, a way to ask Lily questions, book giveaways …and more! Check it out by clicking on the site logo.

MY THOUGHTS

While this book is pegged as a children's book, it's really for children of all ages! I loved this sweet peek into Lily's daily life. Reminiscent of the style of the Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, Lily and her family charmed me. While some might be tempted to idealize aspects of Amish culture, it is clear from this book that some aspects of growing up are universal--such as trials of friendships and dealing with "mean girls!" Lily has captured my heart and I look forward to watching her grow in subsequent books in the Adventures with Lily Lapp series.


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Mary Ann Kinsinger (l) and Suzanne Woods Fisher (r)

Mary Ann Kinsinger was raised Old Order Amish in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. She met and married her husband, whom she knew from school days and started a family. After they chose to leave the Amish church, Mary Ann began a blog, A Joyful Chaos, as a way to capture her warm memories of her childhood for her own children. From the start, this blog found a ready audience and even captured the attention of key media players, such as the influential blog AmishAmerica and the New York Times. She lives in Pennsylvania.


Suzanne Woods Fisher lives with her family in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has a husband, four children, one son-in-law, a brand new grand-baby, and a couple of dogs. She graduated from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California.
Suzanne has contracts with Revell for six more books about the Amish, both fiction and non-fiction. She is also the host of “Amish Wisdom·” on toginet.com, a weekly radio program featuring guests who are connected to Simple Living.

Find out more about Suzanne at http://suzannewoodsfisher.com/.


Celebrate with Suzanne and Mary Ann by entering their contest and RSVPing to the “Life with Lily” Facebook Author Chat Party on 10/16!

Two fortunate winners will receive:

• Either the new Kindle Fire or new Nook HD
• Signed copy of Life with Lily for you and a young reader in your life.  

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 15th. Winner will be announced at the Life with Lily Author Chat Facebook Party on 10/16. Connect with authors Suzanne Woods Fisher and Mary Ann Kinsinger for an evening of book chat, Q&A about Mary Ann’s Amish childhood, trivia, and fun! There will also be gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!

So grab your copy of Life with Lily and join Suzanne and Mary Ann on the evening of the October 16th for a chance to connect with the authors and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the books – don’t let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 16th!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell and Litfuse Publicity as part of their Blogger Review program. 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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Twice Promised

Twice Promised
The Blue Willow Brides #2
Maggie Brendan
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800734633
October 2012/336 pages/$14.99
Two beautiful brides. One unsuspecting groom. Three weeks to figure it all out.

Greta Olsen arrives in Central City, Colorado, as a mail-order bride, expecting to marry Jess Gifford, the man she's come to know through his tender letters. But when she meets Cora Johnson, she discovers she's not the only bride waiting at the train station for Jess.

Already shocked to find they must compete for Jess's affection, the young women can hardly believe it when not Jess but his brother Zach picks them up from the station--and reveals that Jess knows nothing about any mail-order bride, let alone two. Will either bride make the match she hopes for?

Filled with surprises, misunderstandings, and tender romance, Twice Promised is the story of how two unlikely women become twice blessed.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Maggie Brendan is the author of the Heart of the West series and Deeply Devoted, which was a 2012 ICRA Award finalist. A member of the Authors Guild, Romance Writers of America, and Georgia Romance Writers, Maggie lives in Georgia. Visit her at www.MaggieBrendan.com.





MY THOUGHTS

I missed the first book in this series, Deeply Devoted but I'm glad I read this one! Stories of mail-order brides fascinate me; while this is fiction, I know that the practice really existed in the nineteenth century. Brendan has crafted a tale that while somewhat predictable is nevertheless enjoyable to watch unfold. Greta and Cora immediately garnered my sympathies. Jess and Zach just made me shake my head at times! Like any other town, Central City contains a variety of characters; some are easy to like while others require a bit more patience! Twice Promised celebrates love and friendship--and emphasizes the importance of clear communication in any relationship! Grab a copy today.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell as part of their Blogger Review program. 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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All Things New

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingAll Things NewBethany House Publishers (October 1, 2012)byLynn Austin
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published twelve novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, Until We Reach Home, Though Waters Roar, While We're Far Apart, and Wonderland Creek have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In the aftermath of the Civil War, Josephine Weatherly and her mother, Eugenia, struggle to pick up the pieces of their lives when they return to their Virginia plantation. But the bitter realities of life after the war cannot be denied: their home and land are but shells of their previous grandeur; death has claimed her father and brother; and her remaining brother, Daniel, has returned home bitter and broken. The privileged childhood Josephine enjoyed now seems like a long-ago dream. And the God who failed to answer any of her prayers during the war is lost to her as well.

Josephine soon realizes that life is now a matter of daily survival--and recognizes that Lizzie, as one of the few remaining servants, is the one she must rely on to teach her all she needs to know. Josephine's mother, too, vows to rebuild White Oak...but a bitter hatred fuels her.

With skill and emotion, Lynn Austin brings to life the difficult years of the Reconstruction era by interweaving the stories of three women--daughter, mother, and freed slave--in a riveting tale.


If you would like to read the first chapter of All Things New, go HERE.


MY THOUGHTS 

The Civil War era has long been one of my favorite historical settings for novels but there is certainly nothing romantic or appealing about this time in our nation's history. The aftermath was horrific as well, as the country tried to put back pieces that no longer fit together. Lynn Austin, winner of eight Christy Awards, beautifully captures the tension, distrust and uncertainty that plagued the South following its defeat. I was spellbound by the way Austin portrays the very different perspectives of three women on the same plantation: Eugenia, the matriarch, who desperately wants life to return to the genteel days she had known before so she can rule her little kingdom once again; Josephine, her strong-willed daughter, who grows in ways she never dreamed she could as her eyes are opened to the realities around her; and Lizzie, their house slave turned servant, who isn't sure what freedom really means and is scared to believe things might be different, especially when lingering hostilities in the area so readily erupt. I loved the faith struggles that each woman grapples with, and the steady faith of Lizzie's husband, Otis, absolutely shines. This is a masterfully written novel, full of depth. I suspect it will garner Austin yet another award for her crowded shelves!

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American Tapestries Dual Launch!

Welcome to the campaign launch for Summerside Press’ brand new series, American Tapestries. Debuting this new series are authors Melanie Dobson (Where the Trail Ends) and Janice Thompson (Queen of the Waves) and they are celebrating the series launch by hosting a Kindle Fire Giveaway and throwing an American Tapestries Facebook Party on October 18th.

Each novel in this line sets a heart-stirring love story against the backdrop of an epic moment in American history. Whether they fought in her battles, built her cities or forged paths to new territories, a diverse tapestry of men and women shaped this great nation into the Land of Opportunity. Even then, as is true now, the search for romance was a major part of the American Dream.

Where the Trail Ends
Melanie Dobson
(Summerside)
ISBN: 978-1609366858
October 2012/336 pages/$12.99
For two thousand miles along the trail to Oregon Country, Samantha Waldron and her family must overcome tremendous challenges to reach the Willamette Valley before winter. Together they weather autumn storms, hunger and thirst, and the dangers of a wild and unfamiliar country. But when their canoe capsizes on the Columbia River, they must rely on handsome British exporter Alexander Clarke to rescue them from the icy water.

Alex escorts Samantha and her young brother, Micah, to Fort Vancouver. There Samantha is overwhelmed with men vying for her affections, but the only one who intrigues her--Alex--is the one she cannot have. When his betrothed arrives unexpectedly from England to escort him home, Samantha becomes determined to create a home for herself and Micah in the fertile valley far away from the fort. But how will an unmarried woman support herself and her brother in the wilderness alone? Then Micah disappears into the wilderness one rainy night, and Samantha must rely on the man she loves--the man she’s trying desperately to forget--to rescue her brother before it’s too late.

Order a copy here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Melanie Dobson has written ten contemporary and historical novels including five releases in Summerside’s Love Finds You series. In 2011, two of her releases won Carol Awards: Love Finds You in Homestead, Iowa (for historical romance) and The Silent Order (for romantic suspense).

Prior to her writing career, Melanie was the corporate publicity manager at Focus on the Family and a publicist for The Family Channel. She later launched her own public relations company and worked in the fields of publicity and journalism for more than fifteen years.

Melanie and her family enjoy their home in the Pacific Northwest. The entire Dobson family loves to travel and hike in both the mountains and along the cliffs above the Pacific.

When Melanie isn’t writing or playing with her family, she enjoys exploring ghost towns and dusty back roads, line dancing, and reading inspirational fiction.

Find out more about Melanie at http://www.melaniedobson.com.

MY THOUGHTS

After reading this novel (and other similar ones in this genre), all I can say is that it's a wonder the USA was ever settled west of the Mississippi River and especially, west of the Rocky Mountains! Melanie Dobson has written a novel so rich in historical detail that at times I could feel the aches and pains of every step and of the losses Samantha endured, both physically, emotionally, and materially. She was a tough young woman! Dobson's depictions of the various members of the wagon train touched my heart--with the exception of Captain Loewe; I really wanted him to get lost somewhere! Life on the Oregon Trail was filled with peril, monotony and heartache. Don't miss this story of those who persevered until they reached the spot Where the Trail Ends!

Queen of the Waves
Janice Thompson
(Summerside)
ISBN: 978-1609366865
October 2012/336 pages/$12.99
When pampered Jacqueline Abington secretly elopes with the family gardener, she asks another woman to take her place on the much anticipated maiden voyage of the Titanic. Tessa Bowen hails from a poor corner of London but has been granted the opportunity of a lifetime—a ticket to sail to America aboard a famed vessel. But there’s a catch: she must assume Jacqueline’s identity. For the first time in her life, Tessa stays in luxurious quarters, dresses in elegant gowns, and dines with prestigious people. Then a wealthy American man takes an interest in her, and Tessa struggles to keep up the ruse as she begins falling for him. When tragedy strikes, the game is up, and two women’s lives are forever changed.

Order a copy here.

ABOUT JANICE THOMPSON

Award-winning author Janice Thompson, who also writes under the name Janice Hanna, has published nearly eighty books for the Christian market, crossing genre lines to write cozy mysteries, historicals, romances, nonfiction books, devotionals, children’s books and more.

She formerly served as vice president of the Christian Authors Network and was named the 2008 Mentor of the Year by the American Christian Fiction Writers.

Thompson lives in Spring, Texas, near her four grown daughters and young grandchildren. She leads a rich life with her family, a host of writing friends and two mischievous dachshunds.

Readers can keep up with Janice Thompson by visiting her website, becoming a fan on Facebook or following her Twitter.

Find out more about Janice at http://janicethompson.com.

MY THOUGHTS

Adept at writing both contemporary and historical novels, Janice Thompson's gift of storytelling shines in this novel. I've read several of the Titanic novels released this year commemorating disaster's centennial, and Queen of the Waves is one of the best. While I don't exactly condone what Jacqueline and Tessa did in switching identities, my heart cheered for Tessa as she escapes her abusive father for a new life in America. (Whether she makes it or not is for you to find out!) And I loved Thompson's portrayal of Jacqueline's journey, taken without traveling a single mile, as she learns some difficult lessons. The message of faith is beautifully woven into this story; I particularly loved watching Tessa work through her misconceptions of her Heavenly Father based on the dysfunctional actions of her earthly father. This is a wonderful novel and I absolutely recommend it to you!

Celebrate with Melanie and Janice by entering to win a Kindle Fire!

 

One fortunate winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Where the Trail Ends by Melanie Dobson
• Queen of the Waves by Janice Thompson

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 17th. Winner will be announced at the American Tapestries Author Chat Facebook Party on 10/18. Connect with authors Janice Thompson and Melanie Dobson for an evening of book chat, trivia and fun! There will also be gift certificates, books, and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group)!

So grab your copy of Queen of the Waves and Where the Trail Ends and join Janice Thompson and Melanie Dobson on the evening of the October 18th for a chance to connect with the authors and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the books – don’t let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 18th!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received these books free from Summerside via Litfuse Publicity as part of their Blogger Review program. 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 Hodgepodge #97

I love Wednesday! It's "hump day," and we'll slide over the other side to the weekend. Plus it's always fun to join in the Wednesday Hodgepodge and see what questions Joyce has for us!

1. In what ways do you indulge yourself?

Reading at Starbucks while my girl is at Bible Study on Wednesday nights. Occasionally grabbing lunch somewhere that I like, just for fun.

2. Have you ever taken a cooking class? Any interest? What type of class would you most like to try?

I took a pie class years ago that was really fun. And I took a cake decorating class about 25 years ago. It was fun to take it, but cake decorating is definitely not for me! I could get interested in a lot of different sorts of cooking classes; most of them are a bit pricey and at inconvenient times for me.

3. What does it mean to be a good citizen?

To respect and abide by the laws; to be proactive in looking out for the good of others; to put the greater good above your individual desires.

I like this quote by Andrew Jackson: Every good citizen makes his country's honor his own, and cherishes it not only as precious but as sacred. He is willing to risk his life in its defense and is conscious that he gains protection while he gives it.

4. 'Tis the season of the political advert...do these ads influence your vote?

Not even a little bit.

5. What's something you see today that makes you wish you were a kid again?

I'm not sure anything would make me wish to be a kid again! LOL

6. What's your least favorite cliche?

I have two, actually: Money is the root of all evil. and The Lord helps those who help themselves.

Misquoted or wrongly attributed Scripture really bugs me!

7. What percentage of your Christmas shopping has been completed? How does that make you feel?

Zero and that's just fine. We actually are pretty low-key on Christmas. And I enjoy doing it during the season. It would be a bit anti-climactic if I did it ahead of time!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I'm gonna have to be careful about quoting Andrew Jackson. He also said: It is a damn poor mind indeed which can't think of at least two ways to spell any word.

Makes me cringe! LOL



What are your answers to these questions? Head on over to Joyce's blog and join the fun!

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Full Disclosure

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingFull DisclosureBethany House Publishers (October 2, 2012)byDee Henderson

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dee Henderson is the bestselling, award-winning author of 15 previous novels, including the acclaimed O'MALLEY series and UNCOMMON HEROES series. She is a lifelong resident of Illinois.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ann Silver is a cop's cop. As the Midwest Homicide Investigator, she is called in to help local law enforcement on the worst of cases, looking for answers to murder. Hers is one of the region's most trusted investigative positions.

Paul Falcon is the FBI's top murder cop in the Midwest. If the victim carried a federal badge or had a security clearance, odds are good Paul and his team see the case file or work the murder.

Their lives intersect when Ann arrives to pass a case off her desk and onto his. A car wreck and a suspicious death offer a lead on a hired shooter he is tracking. Paul isn't expecting to meet someone, the kind that goes on the personal side of the ledger, but Ann Silver has his attention.

The better he gets to know her, the more Paul realizes her job barely scratches the surface of who she is. She knows spies and soldiers and U.S. Marshals, and has written books about them. She is friends with the former Vice President. People with good reason to be cautious about who they let into their lives deeply trust her. Paul wonders just what secrets Ann is keeping, until she shows him the John Doe Killer case file, and he starts to realize just who this lady he is falling in love with really is…

Watch the book trailer:




If you would like to read the first chapter of Full Disclosure, go HERE.


MY THOUGHTS

After an absence of several years, Dee Henderson returns with the release of Full Disclosure. This is actually the first of her books I have read, and I was curious to see what all the buzz was about. To be honest, it took me awhile to really get into the story. The opening pages just didn't grab me like other novels have. As the case unfolded and the layers developed, my interest grew; the relational aspect between Ann & Paul added depth as well. My thoughts on this one are simply a matter of personal preference: it's a good read but didn't wow me. But I'm sure Dee Henderson has fans who will be astounded and declare that I didn't read the same book they did, so this is one you'll just have to check out for yourself!

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When a Heart Stops (It Might be the Reader's!)

When a Heart Stops
(Deadly Reunions #2)
Lynette Eason
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800720087
October 2012/336 pages/$14.99
A killer's deadly game needs new players . . . but someone's about to change the rules

As a medical examiner, Serena Hopkins is used to dealing with death. But that doesn't make it any easier when she's called to the eerie scene of a murder--especially when Serena realizes that she knows the victim. Nearly as unnerving is the presence of FBI agent Dominic Allen, her childhood crush.

As evidence mounts and points to a serial killer with disturbingly familiar methods, Serena and Dominic must work to find a pattern and stop the killings before the murderer strikes again. And when Serena's own life seems at stake, she must decide if the secret she has been keeping has put her next on the killer's hit list. Can she trust Dominic with the truth before it's too late?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lynette Eason is the author of several romantic suspense novels, including Too Close to Home, Don't Look Back, A Killer Among Us, and When the Smoke Clears. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. A homeschooling mother of two, she has a master's degree in education from Converse College. She lives in South Carolina.



MY THOUGHTS

The heading on Lynette Eason's Infinite Suspense website says "Welcome. . .to the edge of your seat!" That pretty much nails it! She became a must-read suspense author for me two years ago with her Women of Justice series and only solidified that status with this Deadly Reunion series. (My review of When the Smoke Clears, is here.) When a Heart Stops is another must-read, but I must warn you: don't plan to read it in small snatches because you will not be able to put it down! The main character, Serena, has appeared as the medical examiner in each of Eason's previous books and I enjoyed having her "star" in her own story, although I wasn't certain she would survive it! The characters are masterfully portrayed, presenting the conundrum of liking them while simultaneously wondering if one is the murderer hiding in plain sight. Eason paces the suspense perfectly, periodically providing a peek into the unknown villain's mind, stamping each chapter with the day and precise time, and periodically placing a scene alone in a chapter that takes less than a page. At times, I found myself hesitant to turn the next page but at the same time, I couldn't read this book fast enough! Read this one with the lights on, preferably when you aren't home alone, but don't miss it!

I was so happy to meet Lynette Eason at the ACFW conference in September. She and another author happened to sit next to me at breakfast one morning and when I saw her nametag, I almost fell out of my chair! She is a delight.





Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell as part of their Blogger Review program. 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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A Love Surrendered

A Love Surrendered
Winds of Change #3
Julie Lessman
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800734176
October 2012/416 pages/$14.99
Orphaned in Iowa, Annie Kennedy moves to Boston to stay with her spinster aunt. She longs for romance to fill the void left by her parents' death. But when she falls hard for Steven O'Connor, the man who broke an engagement to her sister, Annie is worried. Will he break her heart too when he discovers who she really is?

With heart-pounding romance, intense family drama, and emotional twists and turns, A Love Surrendered is everything Julie Lessman's many fans have been waiting for.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of "Passion with a Purpose" underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. Winner of the 2009 ACFW Debut Author of the Year and Holt Medallion Awards of Merit for Best First Book and Long Inspirational, Julie is also the recipient of 14 Romance Writers of America awards and was voted by readers as "Borders Best of 2009 So Far: Your Favorite Fiction." Chosen as the #1 Romance Fiction Author of the Year in the Family Fiction magazine 2011 Readers' Choice Awards, Julie was also awarded #1 Series of the Year in that same poll and #3 Author of the Year, #5 Novel of the Year, and #4 Historical Fiction Author of the year. She resides in Missouri with her family and is the author of The Daughters of Boston series and the Winds of Change series whose first book, A Hope Undaunted, ranked #5 on Booklist's Top 10 Inspirational Fiction for 2010. You can contact Julie through her website at www.julielessman.com.

MY THOUGHTS

Julie Lessman wraps up her Winds of Change series with another stirring story. Annie captured my heart. I ached for the hurts she experienced and understood her desire to spread her wings and experience life and love, but my mama-heart cringed at her choices! I held my breath as she seemed determined to live life on the edge. The hero, Steven, is a member of the O'Connor clan, which the books in this series (as well as the previous The Daughters of Boston series) have featured. Steven is the last O'Connor sibling who is still single, and he is determined to stay that way. Set in the days of Prohibition, this novel portrays the age-old tug of war between good and bad, between following the crowd and following God, between condemnation and redemption. The message of faith is beautifully woven throughout the novel in the journeys of both Annie and Steve. Plenty of surprises await as the story progresses, and I couldn't put this one down. This book is my favorite of both series, and I hate to say good-bye to the loving (albeit contentious at times!) O'Connor clan. Curl up with A Love Surrendered on a cool evening; it will warm your heart!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell as part of their Blogger Review program. 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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