Hillsong United's Zion - Giveaway!

UPDATE Thursday, 3/21/13 12:50 pm WINNER:

Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:
3
Timestamp: 2013-03-21 17:47:42 UTC
Congrats to Sara! Email me your address, Sara, and the publicist will send you the CD!

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Zion
Hillsong United
ASIN: B00AO7HOEY

After a two-year wait for the next original UNITED project, Hillsong has announced the February 26th release of Zion, which will be the 12th full-length album and third studio recording from the band. This new studio album follows the highly impactful 2011 release Aftermath, which topped the charts internationally and was their highest selling album to date. To label the new album as a fresh sound is to understate the originality that is Zion. It is noticeably different from past projects, yet it retains the indisputable feel of the band that has brought some of the world’s most popular praise and worship songs to the Church.

Available on:
Amazon
iTunes

MY THOUGHTS

If you are a Hillsong United fan, you will enjoy this album. Plenty of praise and worship flow from this CD. While the music and vocal styles are not my favorite, many of the lyrics are just beautiful. I predict that churches will be using some of these songs in the future.


GIVEAWAY

The publicist has graciously offered a copy of this CD to one of you. To enter, leave a comment on this post by 8:00 pm CDT Wednesday (3/20/13) and I will randomly draw a winner. US mailing addresses only, please. You must include an email address if you do not sign into Blogger to comment. Winner will have 48 hours after notification to reply or another winner will be chosen.


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

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Reckless - A Giveaway!

UPDATE THURSDAY 12:45 pm WINNER!

Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:
5
Timestamp: 2013-03-21 17:42:01 UTC
Congrats to Kim! Email me your address and the publicist will send you the CD!

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Jeremy Camp
Reckless
Digital UPC - 5099930140257
CD UPC - 5099930140226
Reckless is the latest full-length record from Jeremy Camp, which will be released on February 12, 2013. Reckless features the single and title track “Reckless,” which is already making waves at radio to set up the record for release. Jeremy Camp has been incredibly successful at retaining fans, and this release will be no different. New and old fans alike will find Reckless to be as heart-felt and passionate as ever.

Available from
Amazon
iTunes
and other retailers

http://www.jeremycamp.com/
https://www.facebook.com/jeremycamp
http://www.becrecordings.com/artists/70/Jeremy_Camp/


MY THOUGHTS

Jeremy Camp has released another stellar album. I had already been enjoying the title song of this CD on KLOVE, so I was eager to listen to the rest of the songs. It's exactly what Jeremy Camp is known for: quality music and heartfelt lyrics that point to Christ. One of my favorite songs that made me stop and replay it several times is "We Must Remember." Another great one is "Reign in Me." Actually, I didn't dislike any song on this album! If you are already familiar with Jeremy Camp, you will definitely want to grab this latest CD. If you haven't previously been blessed by of his music, this album is a great place to start!

Here's "We Must Remember" to whet your listening appetite!



GIVEAWAY

The publicist is graciously offering a copy of this CD to one of you! To enter, leave a comment on this post by 8:00 pm CDT Wednesday, 3/20/13, and I will randomly draw a winner. US mailing addresses only, please. You must include an email address if you don't sign in to Blogger to comment. Winner will have 48 hours to respond after notification or a new winner will be chosen.




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

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Six Sisters Stuff Family Recipes

Six Sisters' Stuff:
Family Recipes, Fun Crafts, and So Much More!
Six Sisters' Stuff
(Shadow Mountain)
ISBN: 978-1609073244
March 2013/208 pages/$21.99
With busy schedules, after-school activities, late workdays and long commutes, is sitting down to a family dinner still possible?

The authors of Six Sisters’ Stuff say YES!

In their debut cookbook, the sisters (yes, six biological sisters— Camille, Kristen, Elyse, Stephanie, Lauren, and Kendra) show families just how simple putting dinner on the table can be. From Baked Chicken Fajitas to Slow Cooker Pot Roast Sliders to Mini Oreo Cheesecakes, Six Sisters’ Stuff has nearly 100 easy-to-follow recipes that use ingredients commonly found in your pantry. Each recipe includes easy-to-follow instructions and photographs that eliminate any guess work.

Six Sisters’ Stuff evolved from the sisters’ blog SixSistersStuff.com, that began in February 2011 out of their love to cook, craft, and create. After years of living close to one another, they suddenly found themselves living in different parts of the country and used the blog to stay in touch and share ideas. In just two short years,SixSistersStuff.com has quickly become one of the most popular food and craft blogs, receiving on average 5 million page views per month, with over 140,000 Facebook fans (follow them here) and more than 220,000 Pinterest followers.

Six Sisters’ Stuff also includes a collection of simple and inexpensive craft ideas – how to make hand puppets, felt bows, decorative wreaths, and more – plus lists of fun family activities for road trips, entertaining rainy-day ideas, healthy snack suggestions, and even some recommendations for cheap date nights. This family-focused cookbook is really more of an idea book to help families create fun, lasting memories together.


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

The Six Sisters—Camille, Kristen, Elyse, Stephanie, Lauren, and Kendra—grew up in Utah, but a few of them have lived all over the country since moving out of the house. Between them there are five nieces and two nephews, and all of the sisters love playing “aunt.” The sisters started the blog in February 2011 to keep in touch while they were apart, but it has since gained popularity, garnering more than 6 million viewers per month and more than 220,000 followers on Pinterest. You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

MY THOUGHTS

This is a cheery book that evokes thoughts of spring and fresh food and families laughing around the table together! So many delicious recipes fill the pages of this book; lots are on my list to try in the weeks ahead. My family loved the Baked Chicken Bacon Ranch Taquitos. One of my favorite features of the cookbook is the full-color photos of the dishes. As a visual person, I am much more likely to try a new recipe if I see an appealing picture of it. The crafts offered throughout the book look like they would be fun for those who unlike me, are not "allergic" to glue guns, felt or other crafty supplies. But I find plenty to keep me occupied in the food sections of this book, anyway! I definitely recommend this cookbook, and it's a great one to use to take the Six Sisters 4x4 Family Dinner Challenge!

According to Pew Research, only about half of families make dinner a daily ritual and another third eat together a few times a week. Roughly one in 5 families (20%) eat together only occasionally or never. In conjunction with the book’s release, on March 4, 2013, SixSistersStuff.com will launch a 4x4 Dinner Challenge. Families are encouraged to eat together as a family at least four times a week for four weeks. Families can register online at www.SixSistersStuff.com and receive meal tips, ideas for family activities, and helpful recipes to assist in making this challenge a reality. “We grew up knowing the importance of feeding our families a home-cooked meal and sitting down to eat it together,” said Camille, the oldest sister. “Even the busiest of people can make the food and project ideas we share, which will give you even more time to spend with your family and loved ones.”

It’s never been easier to cook, craft and create for your family!




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

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Wednesday Hodgepodge

It's Wednesday and that means it's time to join Joyce for the weekly Hodgepodge! We'll see how I do with the questions this week. A couple of weeks ago when I answered them after working a 12-hour hospital shift on a Tuesday, I misread questions and couldn't even come up with interesting answers. Yesterday was my final shift for my refresher course and I came home pretty exhausted and with about 3/4 of a headache. We'll see how I do. . . .

1. Do you play games of luck/chance for money? Have you ever played bingo for money? Visited a casino? Placed a bet on a horse? Bought a lottery ticket?

No to all of the above. I am pretty strongly anti-betting.

2. Will you be preparing and/or dining on the traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage meal this St. Patrick's Day? Mashed-baked-hash browned-french fried...your favorite way to have potatoes?

Ewww, no. I don't like corned beef OR cabbage! I'll stick to Irish songs; you can have the Irish food! Baked potatoes are my favorite, loaded with everything, although I've really quit eating potatoes much over the last few months.

3. What's the last thing you felt 'green with envy' over?

I honestly don't remember. Probably a house that is kind of a Southern Living type of house that I absolutely love.

4. What's at the end of your rainbow?

Heaven.

5. March 12th marks the anniversary of the death of Anne Frank (June 12, 1929-March, 1945). Anne's diary detailing her time spent hiding from the Nazi's during the war ranks as one of the best selling books of all time. Besides your blog, do you keep any sort of diary or journal? Was this a habit you developed as a child or is journaling something new for you?

No, I have never been a journaler.

6. What's an item in your home or closet that contains every color of the rainbow?

I don't go much for bright multi-colored things. I have a necklace that comes close.

7. Write a limerick with you as the subject. You can do it!! Just remember this is a family friendly blog...don't make me get out my wooden spoon.

Linda was told to be witty
But this rhyme might not be very pretty
She worked hard all day
And had nothing to say
That would fit in a lim'rick or ditty!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Although I love it being light later in the evenings, the transition to Daylight Saving Time wipes me out. Especially when getting to the hospital at 7:00 am yesterday felt like 6:00 am! Fortunately, this week is spring break and I don't have to get up early for the rest of the week!

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Swept Away

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingSwept AwayBethany House Publishers (March 1, 2013)byMary Connealy
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Christy Award Finalist, a Carol Award Finalist and an IRCC Award finalist.

The Lassoed in Texas Series: Petticoat Ranch, Calico Canyon and Gingham Mountain. Petticoat Ranch was a Carol Award Finalist. Calico Canyon was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy

The Montana Marriages Series: Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist.

Cowboy Christmas—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist.


The Sophie's Daughters series: Doctor in Petticoats, Wrangler in Petticoats, Sharpshooter in Petticoats.

She is also the author of; Black Hills Blessing a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances, Nosy in Nebraska, a 3-in-1 collection of cozy romantic mysteries and she's one of the three authors contributing to Alaska Brides with her Carol Award Winning historical romance Golden Days.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When a cowboy focused on revenge encounters a woman determined to distract him, there's going to be trouble in Texas!

Swept away when her wagon train attempts a difficult river crossing, Ruthy MacNeil isn't terribly upset at being separated from the family who raised her. All they've ever done is work her to the bone. Alive but disoriented, she's rescued by Luke Stone...so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in her immediate future.

Luke is on a mission to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the men currently on the property won't let it go without a fight. Luke plans to meet up with friends who will help him take back the land, and since he can't just leave Ruthy in the middle of nowhere, she's going to have to go with him.

But the more time Luke spends around the hardworking young woman, the more he finds himself thinking of things besides revenge. Will Ruthy convince him to give up his destructive path and be swept away by love?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Swept Away, go HERE.

MY THOUGHTS

Another fun book from Mary Connealy; my review coming soon!

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Love in a Broken Vessel

Love in a Broken Vessel
Mesu Andrews
(Revell)
ISBN: 978=0800721695
March 2013/448 pages/$14.99
An epic journey of intimacy, rejection, betrayal . . . and hope

God gives Hosea a difficult command-marry a prostitute in order to show God’s people the nature and depth of His love for Israel. When Hosea goes to Israel to proclaim the Lord’s message, the woman God directs him to marry turns out to be his childhood friend Gomer. He finds her broken and abused, unwilling to trust Hosea or his God. But when marrying Hosea becomes her only means of escape, Gomer does what she’s good at-she survives. Can Hosea’s love for God and God’s love for Israel restore Gomer’s broken spirit?

With her powerful combination of in-depth research and masterful storytelling, Mesu Andrews brings to life one of the most complex and fascinating stories of love and forgiveness in the face of utter betrayal.

Read an excerpt here/



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Photo Credit: © Nic White Photography

Mesu Andrews is the author of Love Amid the Ashes and Love's Sacred Song. She is an active speaker who has devoted herself to passionate and intense study of Scripture. Harnessing her deep understanding and love for God's Word, Andrews brings the biblical world vividly alive for her readers. She lives in Washington.

MY THOUGHTS

Anyone who reads my reviews regularly knows that I am very picky about Biblical fiction. Mesu Andrews is one who does it right. She combines painstaking period research with thorough Bible study so that the fictional pieces woven into the gaps are credible. I particularly appreciated her explaining some of the historical facts, as well as the hypotheses, at the beginning of the novel; oftentimes an author includes these at the end of a story, but I find it much more helpful up front so that I know, as I read, what are suppositions and what are facts. Love in a Broken Vessel is a beautiful story but for me, its strongest asset is the portrayal of Hosea's-and therefore, God's-heartbreak when his beloved returns to her adulterous ways. But oh! the love that redeems and forgives if the beloved will return to Him! As an aside, for those who love Francine Rivers' Redeeming Love and think no other book can compare, do not hesitate to read this one. As Andrews herself says in the introduction, the books are like apples and oranges; both are wonderful but very different. I highly recommend Love in a Broken Vessel; you'll view God's love in a whole new way.


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

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I'm Not 23 Anymore!

I've been working some 12-hour shifts in a local hospital as part of a refresher course to update my RN license since I've been a SAHM to raise my kids.

Turns out, the hospital is an excellent place to do these shifts, for more than one reason!

I'm definitely not in my twenties anymore!

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Strands of Deception

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingStrands of DeceptionB&H Books (March 1, 2013)
byRobin Caroll
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Born and raised in Louisiana, Robin Caroll is a southerner through and through. Her passion has always been to tell stories to entertain others. Robin’s mother, bless her heart, is a genealogist who instilled in Robin the deep love of family and pride of heritage—two aspects Robin weaves into each of her books.

When she isn’t writing, Robin spends time with her husband of twenty-plus years, her 3 beautiful daughters, 2 precious grandsons, and their character-filled pets at home—in the South, where else?

ABOUT THE BOOK 

When Gina Ford, the daughter of a prominent Tennessee politician, goes missing from the University of Memphis a week after another girl was murdered on the same campus, police call in the FBI. Nick Hagar, married to his job as Special Agent in Charge, is assigned to the case, and when Gina’s body is found, her father demands justice.

Maddie Baxter is the forensic expert running DNA tests from the crime scene. When they come back without a match, Nick asks her to do a familial DNA run that yields a shocking result: the prime suspect is Adam Alexander, the very same guy who broke Maddie’s heart when she was in college.

But do scientific advancements tell the whole story? Strand of Deception offers romance, suspense, and a lively debate about the impact of DNA testing, for better or worse, on the United States justice system.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Strands of Deception, go HERE.

MY THOUGHTS

"Riveting" doesn't begin to describe Robin Caroll's novels! I have been eagerly anticipating her final Justice Seekers novel since reading the first two (click the titles for my review of Injustice for All and To Write a Wrong), and she delivered in spades! Not only is this novel a captivating romantic suspense with plenty of twists and turns, it delves into the relatively new concept of familial DNA testing as a means of solving the crime. The grim reality of the forensic focus is lightened by Maddie Baxter's obsession with Elvis Presley, and quotes and songs are scattered throughout the book, providing a fun and quirky distraction from the high-stakes case. Once again, Caroll has penned a story that kept me up far into the night, unable to set it aside until I reached the final pages. I HIGHLY recommend this book, as well as the previous two books in this series.


I am grateful to B&H Books for providing a copy of this book as part of the CFBA book tour. I was not required to write a positive review and the views I have expressed are my own.

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March-ing to the Beat of the Hodgepodge

If it's Wednesday, it must be Hodgepodge! Read my answers and then march right over to Joyce's blog to meet some other folks and participate!

1. My real life friends came through with another question this week so thank you real life friends. When you've eaten in a restaurant do you complete their comment card? Do you take online surveys highlighted at the bottom of store receipts?

Rarely for both. I always intend to do the online surveys that will get me a discount or a free meal, like the Chick-fil-A ones, but I never remember to do them.

2. The (US) ban on women in combat was lifted at the end of January. It will probably be next year before specifics are worked out, but its been reported over 200,000 front line positions will eventually open up to women. Your thoughts?

I'm not happy about it. While there are certainly women who have entered the military who would like to be in combat, I don't think a lot of them really do, and those who think they do might change their mind really quickly once the experience a taste of it! And I'm concerned for the potential next step...the requirement for women should the draft be reinstated.

3. In looking back at all the blog posts you've written, what's your favorite post title?

Good grief, I'm nearing 2000 posts and Joyce wants me to look back at all of them? A quick perusal landed me on this from March 2009: All Hail the Power. . .of Texas Weather

4. What's worse-overly permissive parents or overly protective parents? Did your own parents lean more to the permissive or the protective category? If you're a parent where do you fall?

Overly permissive is worse. Kids can get in a lot of trouble with overly permissive parents.

Mine were a bit overly protective. I tend to be a bit protective, but not as extreme as my man. He is the proverbial "mother hen." LOL

5. Candlelight-moonlight-firelight-bright lights in the big city...which one's your favorite?

It depends on what I'm doing. Dinner by candlelight is wonderful. but if I'm going to read, I want bright lights! I

6. Dr. Seuss's birthday was celebrated on Saturday. What's a favorite book you remember (Seuss or otherwise) from your own childhood? Did books play an important role in your growing up years? Explain.

Oh, I could go on forever about books from my childhood! Yes, they played an important role in my life as I was growing up! I was such an avid bookworm, as I'm sure those of you who read my blog regularly know. Probably my favorites were the Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder. I read those books over and over until I practically had them memorized.

As for the rest of my bookish memories, I talked about them back when I was hosting my weekly Flashback Friday series.

7. To quote Dr. Seuss...

"From there to here, and here to there, funny things are everywhere."
from One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish
Share something funny you've recently read, seen or heard.

PMS jokes are not funny. Period.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I guess this could have gone under #7, as well. Monday was National Grammar Day. I missed it but enjoyed catching up on some of the fun yesterday. Here are some funny photos of things that needed to be proofed before going public! Embarrassing Grammar Mistakes Sscroll down just a tad to the pictures).

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The Icecutter's Daughter

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingIcecutter’s DaughterBethany House Publishers (March 1, 2013)byTracie Peterson
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

As the lone female in a houseful of men, Merrill Krause dedicates her life to caring for her family and their business, as her dying mother asked. Besides, it suits her; she's never felt like she fits what most people expect in a girl--she'd rather work with her father's horses and assist with the ice harvest. And though she's been mostly content up to this point, a part of her wonders if there will ever be anyone who will notice her amid the bevy of brothers determined to protect her from any possible suitors.

When Rurik Jorgenson arrives in their small Minnesota town to join his uncle's carpentry business, he soon crosses paths with Merrill. But unlike other men, who are often frightened away by her older brothers, Rurik isn't intimidated by them or by Merrill's strength and lack of femininity. The attraction between them begins to build...until Rurik's former fiance shows up with wild claims that bring serious consequences to Rurik.

Can Rurik and Merrill learn to trust God--and each other--when scandal threatens their newfound love?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Icecutter’s Daughter, go HERE.


MY THOUGHTS

I should know not to start a book by Tracie Peterson when I only have a short amount of time to read because it will be impossible to put down, and The Icecutter's Daughter was no exception. Deciding "just one more chapter" is pointless because her chapters are never good stopping places; she always dangles something that makes me keep right on reading! This novel is full of wonderful characters (and a few not-so-wonderful!) that I immediately fell in love with-except for the ones that I wanted to send packing, that is! Merrill and Rurik are especially endearing and I loved how they each honored their relationships with their families and friends. Merrill can hold her own with her brothers but she is less confident when it comes to feminine graces, and Peterson portrays all the nuances of Merrill's as well as the other characters to perfection. Don't miss this delightful book.

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Shattered

Shattered
(Alaskan Courage Book #2)
Dani Pettrey
(Bethany House Publishers)
ISBN: 978-0764209833
February 2013/368 pages/$14.99
When her prodigal brother Reef's return to Yancey, Alaska, is shattered by his arrest for murder, Piper McKenna is determined to protect him.

Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he's also sworn to find the truth. And he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most. With his sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, some unexpected leads complicate the investigation, and pursuing the truth puts Landon's career in jeopardy.

When Piper launches her own investigation, Landon realizes he must protect her from herself--and whatever complications await as the two follow clues deep into Canada's rugged backcountry. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom, and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves--the thrill of adventure, nail biting suspense, the deepening of her characters' faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters. Visit her website at www.danipettrey.com and connect with her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DaniPettrey.

MY THOUGHTS

I missed the first book in this series, but I'm glad I read this one! Dani Pettrey captivated me from the opening paragraph of this novel until the final sentence, and I found myself picking up the book at every opportunity to discover what happens next in Piper's quest to clear her brother of the murder charges that landed him in jail. Pettrey expertly builds both the romantic tension and the element of suspense until I found myself almost forgetting to breathe. A bevy of characters with an array of personalities adds to the dynamics of the story, and plenty of twists and turns kept me from guessing the conclusion. I'll be watching for the remaining books in this series!


Dani Pettrey is celebrating the release of Shattered with a Nook HD giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party {3/14}. 

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Nook HD
• Submerged and Shattered by Dani Pettrey {Be caught up in this riveting series.}

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 13th. Winner will be announced at the "Shattered" Author Chat Party on 3/14. Connect with Dani for an evening of book chat, trivia, and a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!

So grab your copy of Shattered and join Dani on the evening of the March 14th 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 14th!

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

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Unholy Hunger

Unholy Hunger
(Lure of the Serpent #1)
Heather James
(Kregel Publications)
ISBN: 978-0825442919
December 2012/22 pages/$13.99
Evelyn Barrett wants to die. As long as her daughter’s murderer dies with her, she is ready to go. Why did this man--this stranger--destroy her family? Why has he not been brought to justice? Why is she forced to live a life of anger and grief? Amid a million questions she cannot answer, Evelyn knows one thing for sure: this murderer must be punished for his crime.
Before it all, she was a successful attorney who won all the hard cases. Now that the case is personal, Evelyn will stop at nothing to seek her own version of justice. When another girl goes missing, Evelyn plows forward, ignoring the warnings from police detectives, the pleas of her grief-stricken husband, and the strange, almost supernatural tingles that tug at her. But as she follows the stench of evil, Evelyn learns that the hardest thing she will have to face may not be the death of her child after all. Perhaps the harder lesson is this: the ultimate truth--of crime and verdict, of life and death--cannot be swayed by a mother’s revenge.

In this first book of a new, page-turning series, a woman will be brought to her limits before she finally recognizes the movement of the Holy Spirit and reconnects with the source of true peace.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heather James is the author of the Lure of the Serpent Series, suspense novels that pack quick wit into the high heels of attorney turned vigilante, Evelyn Barrett.

In addition, Heather is a practicing lawyer in California and a columnist with The Bakersfield Californian. Her columns focus on the humorous aspects of marriage and parenthood. Heather is married and works at home, raising two young sons. Learn more at her website, http://heatherjames.net.

MY THOUGHTS

This was a captivating, albeit occasionally difficult, read--difficult only because of the subject matter, which is every parent's nightmare. At times I wanted to read while peeking through my fingers held protectively over my eyes, as if watching a train wreck in progress. The story is raw, gritty, and sadly, all too real for too many people. Heather James has done a superb job of capturing the reality and the emotions of this heartbreaking tale without being sensationalist or overbearing. Most importantly, she deftly entwines the message of redemption and powerfully demonstrates why we as finite humans must lay vengeance at the feet of the Lord.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a free copy of this book free from Kregel Publications. 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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Moonlight Masquerade

Moonlight Masquerade
Ruth Axtell
(Revell)
ISBN: 9780800720896
March 2013/352 pages/$14.99

Sometimes it is hard to tell if you are the cat or the mouse.

Lady Céline Wexham seems the model British subject. French by birth but enjoying life in 1813 as a widowed English countess, she is in the unique position of being able to help those in need-or to spy for the notorious Napoleon Bonaparte.

When Rees Phillips of the British Foreign Office is sent to pose as the countess’s butler and discover where her true loyalties lie, he is confident he will uncover the truth. But the longer he is in her fashionable townhouse in London’s West End, the more his staunch loyalty to the Crown begins to waver as he falls under Lady Wexham’s spell.

Will he find the proof he needs? And if she is a spy after all, what then will he do?

With sharp wit, fast-paced dialogue, and infectious intrigue, Ruth Axtell deftly creates a world where black and white burst into a confusion of colors-and no one is who they seem.

Read an excerpt here!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ruth Axtell is the author of thirteen novels, including Wild Rose, one of Booklist's Top Ten in Christian Fiction. Currently a resident of Downeast Maine, Axtell has lived in the Canary Islands, Miami, and the Netherlands. Learn more at her website, ruthaxtell.com.

MY THOUGHTS

I've read and enjoyed several of Ruth Axtell's previous books and was delighted to learn she was releasing a Regency novel. Moonlight Masquerade did not disappoint as it immersed me in the world of the English aristocracy with its oh-so-proper divisions between the wealthy, titled members of society and their lower-class servants. Axtell has created a marvelous cast of characters and woven a tale of espionage and counter-spying that kept me on my toes as I read, wondering who could be trusted. Moments of political intrigue and suspense intermingle with romantic tension, resulting in an enthralling story that alternately caused me to hold my breath and sigh with satisfaction. Don't miss Moonlight Masquerade!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an e-book copy of this book free from Revell Books 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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March New Releases

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

Catching Her Heart by Carolyne Aarsen -- When they fell in love that summer, Jess Schroder never knew the secret Naomi Deacon carried away with her. Eight years later, she's back in Hartley Creek - a nurse's aide devoted to healing others. As she gets to know the good, caring man Jess has become, Naomi realizes they both deserve a second chance. Is Jess ready to let Naomi past his defenses? (Romance from Love Inspired).

Moonlight Masquerade, A Regency by Ruth Axtell -- Lady Celine Wexham seems the model British subject. French by birth but enjoying life in 1813 as a widowed English countess, she is in the unique position of being able to help those in need-or to spy for the notorious Napoleon Bonaparte. When Rees Phillips of the British Foreign Office is sent to pose as the countess's butler and discover where her true loyalties lie, he is confident he will uncover the truth. But the longer he is with her, the more his staunch loyalty to the Crown begins to waver. (Historical Romance from Revell).

Rekindled Romance by Lorraine Beatty -- Back home again to regain her health, Shelby Russell finds herself babysitting for Matt Durrant's adorable kids, but the trouble is, Matt's the man she jilted for her career years ago. (Romance from Love Inspired).

The Hidden Son by Dianna T. Benson -- When U.S. DEA Special Agent Lelisa Desmond refuses to follow an order to bury evidence in a high profile case, her superior inexplicably hires a hit man to kill her. Lelisa barely survives the first attempt on her life, but someone close to her is mistakenly murdered in her place. Lelisa sets off on a daring mission to bring down the man who ordered her execution. A man with powerful friends who will stop at nothing to protect his son. Can she take him down, before he sends someone else to silence her forever? (Suspense/Police Procedural from Ellechor Publishing House).

Strand of Deception by Robin Caroll -- Strand of Deception offers romance, suspense, and a lively debate about the impact of DNA testing, for better or worse, on the United States justice system. (Romantic Suspense from B&H Publishing).

Swept Away by Mary Connealy -- Ruthy MacNeil is rescued from a flood by Luke Stone...who is on his way to fight the man who killed his father...so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in Ruthy's immediate future. (Historical Romance from Bethany House).

Scorned Justice by Margaret Daley -- Texas Ranger Brody Calhoun realizes the attack on his high school sweetheart's brother is more than it seems. Judge Rebecca Morgan is in the midst of a trial involving the Russian Mafia and suddenly her life is in danger. (Romantic Suspense from Abingdon Press).

When Truth Whispers by Dora Hiers -- After a humiliating breakup, best-selling romance author Teal Benning flees to Promise Lake to complete her current novel, minus paparazzi and flashing cameras. Suffering from writer's block and a broken heart, Teal accepts the offer of help from neighbor, Hunter Miciver. Hunter longs to be more than the friend who picks up the shattered pieces of Teal's heart, but when Teal finds out his secret, will she see him for the man he is? (Contemporary Romance Novella from White Prose Publishing (Pelican).

Journey's Embrace by Dora Hiers -- After an injury forces Deputy U.S. Marshal Sage Michaelson off duty, he heads to his hometown with two things on his mind: recuperating and reevaluating, but Sage can't refuse his best friend's plea to keep a protective eye on his little sister after someone ransacks her house.
Flight Medic Delaney Hunt has loved Sage forever. But, he's all about control while she takes risks. She doesn't need Sage looking over her shoulder. But when things go wrong and she finds herself hanging by her fingertips, who does she call to rescue her? (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing (Pelican).

Angel Falls by Connie Mann -- A fiercely protective Brazilian orphanage director and a burned-out Army Ranger are forced together in a deadly race to save one helpless baby. (Romantic Suspense from Abingdon Press).

Love Will Find a Way by Pamela S. Meyers -- When April Love opens her new eatery and catering business in an old Victorian in the village of Canoga Lake, Wisconsin, trouble is afoot. During renovations, she discovers evidence that the home had once been the hideout of a famous gangster. When several break-ins and an attempted arson fire threaten the grand opening, April and handsome fiancé Marc Thorne wonder if the gangsters still around? (Cozy Mystery from OakTara Publishers).

The Survivor by DiAnn Mills -- Kariss helps a woman involved with a 23 year old cold case and steps into a viper's pit of danger. (Romantic Suspense from Zondervan).

When Memories Fade (Victory Gospel Series 2) by Tyora Moody -- Angel Roberts has embraced her new faith, but past memories remain fresh. After her beloved grandmother suffers a stroke, Angel sets out to investigate a mystery that has lingered since she was five years old. What happened to her mother? She teams up with investigative reporter, Wes Cade, a man obsessed with his Alzheimer stricken grandfather's remaining memories. As Angel lets her guard down with Wes, his determination to get the story could push her to the edge. Is his interest in her or the story? (Romantic Suspense from Love for the Right Reasons by Donna L. Rich -- Beverly Lahmeyer falls in love with her new boss, but devastating news brings their relationship to a halt. (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents).

Mountain Homecoming by Sandra Robbins -- In the second book in the Smoky Mountain Dreams series, the Martin family realizes their way of life is changing as the lumber companies begin to invade their remote valley deep in the Smoky Mountains. (Romance from Harvest House).

The Tempted Soul by Adina Senft -- A childless Amish woman is tempted by medical technology to betray her beliefs. (Contemporary Women's Fiction from Faith Words (Hachette).

Antique Dreams by Amber Stockton -- Fulfilling a deathbed promise, Aaron Stone encourages Lillian Bradenton to bring life back to a boarded-up bookstore, but before he can make good on his promise, he is called away to settle a family emergency, leaving Lillian to wonder if she's lost him forever. (Historical Romance from Heartsong Presents).

Forsaken Dreams by Mary Lu Tyndall -- Forsaken Dreams launches readers on a romantic adventure as Colonel Blake Wallace leaves the war-torn South behind to build a utopian society in Brazil. But will unexpected dangers on the ship and the secret of one captivating lady keep him from beginning anew? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing).

Ring of Secrets by Roseanna M. White -- Love has no place in a world of spies. (Historical Romance from Harvest House).

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