Rollin' Down the Hodgepodge

1. Have you learned more from success or failure? Explain.

I try to learn a lot from other people's failures.

2. What did you call your grandparents when you were growing up? If you have children, what do they call your parents? If you have grandchildren, what do they call you?

I called my grandparents Grandmother and Granddaddy. When we talked about them at home, to distinguish between them we would say the last name, such as "When are we going to see Grandmother Smith?" My kids called both sets Grandmommy and Granddaddy, eventually shortening to Grandmom and Granddaddy.

3. You're invited to a luau. In keeping with that theme, what dish will you bring to share?

Probably a fruit salad.

4. Besides Jesus, what one person's life story do you think everyone should know about?

Oh, these kind of questions always make me draw a blank. There are lots of folks who have had a big impact on those around them. Of course, there are the obvious political choices: Washington, Lincoln, MLK, etc. One who popped in my mind is Corrie Ten Boom. Another is Billy Graham. And Fanny Crosby, the hymn writer.

5. "Don't sweat the small stuff." Agree or Disagree? Why?

Mostly agree except that it results in the pendulum swinging the other way and people tend to blow off the small stuff. Attention to detail matters.

6. June is National Rivers Month. When were you last on a river? What's the prettiest river you've ever seen? What's a river you'd like to see?

I'm not on rivers too often. Maybe in 2009 when we were on vacation in Tennessee. I haven't seen too many "pretty" rivers; most of them tend to be pretty murky. I've always wanted to see the Mississippi.

7. Speaking of rivers-paddling, fishing, swimming, or bird watching safely from the shore? Which activity would you choose? Yes-you have to choose.

Why isn't a riverboat dinner cruise listed?! That's my pick! Otherwise, I'm more with enjoying the view from the shore.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Summertime and the living is easy at our house! We had a fun weekend with graduation and various parties/open houses to attend, and now my girl is loving the fact that for the first time since sixth grade, she has a summer completely free of any school work! No AP English summer reading projects/reports, no dual-credit college courses. She is footloose and fancy-free!

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That Certain Summer

That Certain Summer
Irene Hannon
(Revell)
ISBN: 978-0800722494
June 2013/304 pages/$14,99
Two very different sisters . . . an unexpected homecoming . . . one unforgettable summer

Karen and Val are family-yet they're anything but close. Karen has carried the burden of responsibility for her aging mother ever since her sister left town years ago to pursue a career in theater. But Val had other reasons for moving away-as well as a secret to keep-and coming home has never been an option . . . until their mother suffers a stroke.

Reunited in their hometown, Karen and Val must grapple with past mistakes as they care for their ailing mother. When two handsome men enter the picture, the summer takes on a surprising new dimension. As their lives intersect, can each of them learn how to forgive, let go, and move on? And strengthened by the healing power of faith, might they also find the courage to love?

With her trademark compelling characters and heartwarming hope, award-winning author Irene Hannon pens an inspiring true-to-life tale of complex relationships, the search for forgiveness, and the life-changing process of finding love.

Read an excerpt here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of over forty books, including more than two dozen contemporary romance novels and the Heroes of Quantico and Guardians of Justice series. Her books have garnered many honors, including two RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, a Carol Award, and two Reviewers' Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine. In addition, Booklist included one of her novels in its "Top 10 Inspirational Fiction" list for 2011. She lives in Missouri.

For more information, please visit www.irenehannon.com.

MY THOUGHTS

I am a fan of Irene Hannon's suspense books but I had somehow missed that she writes contemporary romance novels as well until I had the opportunity to review That Certain Summer. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for more of her books in this genre! Hannon expertly portrays the tension and drama between two sisters and their aging, impossible-to-please mother and demonstrates how unresolved issues in each of their pasts contribute to the dysfunction. This is a tender story of letting go, forgiveness, and hope that will resonate with those who long for new beginnings. Just in time for your summer reading list, make room in 2013 for That Certain Summer!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishing 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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Catch a Falling Star

Catch a Falling Star
Beth Vogt
(Howard Books)
ISB: 978-1451660272
May 2013/336 pages/$14.99

What does a girl do when life doesn’t go according to her plan?

At 36, Kendall Haynes has seen some of her dreams come true. She’s a family physician helping kids with severe allergies and asthma achieve more fulfilling lives—a childhood struggle she knows all too well. But the feeling of being “the kid never picked” looms large when romance continues to evade her and yet another one of her closest friends gets engaged. Are Kendall’s dreams of having it all—a career, a husband, children—nothing more than childish wishing upon a star? Should she hold out for her elusive Plan A? Dust off Plan B? Or is it time to settle? God says he knows the plans he has for her—why can’t Kendall figure them out and be content with her life?

Griffin Walker prefers flying solo—both as an Air Force pilot and in his personal life. But a wrong choice and health problems pulled him out of the cockpit. His attempts to get out of “flying a desk” are complicated by his parents’ death—making Griffin the reluctant guardian of his sixteen-year-old brother, Ian. How did his life get so off course? Can God get his life back on track … or has there been a divine plan all along?

Catch a Falling Star reminds readers that romance isn’t just for twenty-somethings and that sometimes letting go of your “wish I may, wish I might” dreams is the only way to embrace everything God has waiting for you.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Beth K. Vogt is a non-fiction author and editor who said she’d never write fiction. She’s the wife of an Air Force family physician (now in solo practice), though she said she’d never marry a doctor—or anyone in the military. She’s a mom of four, though she said she’d never have kids. She’s discovered that God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.” Her contemporary romance novel, Wish You Were Here, debuted in May 2012 (Howard Books), and Catch a Falling Star releases May 2013. An established magazine writer and former editor of Connections, the leadership magazine for MOPS International, Beth is also the Skills Coach for My Book Therapy, the writing community founded by best-selling author Susan May Warren. Find out more about Beth K. at http://bethvogt.com.

MY THOUGHTS

Catch a Falling Star is a fun, quick read containing a cast of likeable characters that are easy to connect with as well as a relevant message about waiting on God while not putting your entire life on hold in the process. Vogt does a great job of portraying the many emotions that Kendall, Griffin, and Ian (along with other characters) experience while keeping the book light and free of melodramatic angst. The spiritual theme is steady and unapologetic without being heavy-handed. Put this one on your summer list and tuck into your beach bag. You never know when you might Catch a Falling Star!

Celebrate the release of Catch a Falling Star (Howard Books) with Beth K. Vogt by entering to win a Romantic Weekend Getaway and RSVPing for her June 4th Author Chat Party.

One "lucky" winner will receive:

• A $200 Visa Cash Card (Perfect for a weekend stay at a hotel or B&B!)
• Catch a Falling Star and Wish You Were Here by Beth Vogt (Swoon-worthy!)
  

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 3rd. Winner will be announced at the "Catch a Falling Star" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 4th. Connect with Beth for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Beth will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Catch a Falling Star and join Beth on the evening of June 4th 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 4th!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Howard Books 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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June New Releases

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

Romance Releases:

A Bride for All Seasons by Robin Lee Hatcher, Margaret Brownley, Debra Clopton, and Mary Connealy -- 1800s mail-order bride catalogs facilitated many happy marriages. Here are the stories of four couples who owe their wedded bliss to creative editing by The Hitching Post publisher. (Historical Romance Novella from Thomas Nelson).

Pieces of the Heart: Quilts of Love Series by Bonnie S. Calhoun -- Cordelia Grace watched Bernard Howard, the love of her young life, go off to fight for our country in WWII. And she has spent the last three years creating the Pine Cone quilt that will grace their marriage bed when he comes home. Her image of their "happy-ever-after" grows proportionally as the quilt expands. But is the man that returns from the war, the same man that she remembered? Are the dark shades of color that she had to use for the outside edges of the beloved quilt prophetic of her life to come? (Historical Romance from Abingdon Press).

Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer -- Abducted from a train by a gang of aging outlaws, Crockett Archer must choose between either escaping to follow his own dreams or staying to help the daughter of his captor fulfill hers. (Historical Romance from Bethany House).

Blowing on Dandelions by Miralee Ferrell -- In 1880, three years after Katherine Galloway's husband's death, she struggles to run an Oregon boardinghouse and raise two girls alone. Things don't get easier when her critical, domineering mother moves in. And with a daughter entering the teenage years, the pressure on Katherine becomes close to overwhelming. Then she crosses paths with Micah Jacobs, a widower who could reignite her heart. (Historical Romance from David C. Cook).

Trouble in Store by Carol Cox -- Fired from her most recent governess position, Melanie Ross must embrace her last resort: the Arizona mercantile she inherited from her cousin. But Caleb Nelson is positive he inherited the mercantile, and he's not about to let an obstinate woman with newfangled ideas ruin all he's worked for.
But someone else doesn't want the mercantile to succeed, and threatening words have escalated into destruction and danger. (Historical Romance from Bethany House)

Grace's Pictures by Cindy Thomson -- Grace McCaffery hopes that the bustling streets of New York hold all the promise that the lush hills of Ireland did not. As her efforts to earn enough money to bring her mother to America fail, she wonders if her new Brownie camera could be the answer. But a casual stroll through a beautiful New York City park turns into a hostile run-in with local gangsters, who are convinced her camera holds the first and only photos of their elusive leader. Spread thin between her quest to rescue her mother, do well in a new nanny job, and avoid the gang intent on intimidating her, Grace must put her faith in unlikely sources to learn the true meaning of courage and forgiveness. (Historical Romance from Tyndale House)

Restoring His Heart by Lorraine Beatty -- A Love to Build On. After he crashed his sportscar into a gazebo, Adam Holbrook is sentenced to 30 days rebuilding it - definitely not Adam's usual glamorous lifestyle. But when Laura Durrant, the contractor scheduled to help him, shows up, everything changes. Suddenly, Adam woudn't mind an extended sentence. And no one's more surprised in this change in attitude than Adam. As they work amid the dust and sweat, Laura teaches him about more than carpentry. she teaches him everything he's missed out on - a family, a relationship with God... and maybe even love. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired)

Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter -- In the years since her twin brother's tragic drowning, Madison has struggled with her ability to trust God-or anyone else, for that matter. It was her brother's dream to win the annual River Sail Regatta in their small harbor town of Chapel Springs, Indiana. And Madison's determined to honor his legacy by making his dream her own. But learning to sail means learning to swim. And her instructor is Beckett O'Reilly. As much as she'd like to deny it, the chemistry between them is electrifying. As her feelings for him grow, a fledging faith begins to take root in her soul, as well. But Beckett harbors a secret that will test the limits of their love and the depth of Madison's faith. (Contemporary Romance from Thomas Nelson)

Yesterday's Stardust by Becky Melby -- Journalist Dani Gallagher finds a tattered diary written in the Roaring Twenties-and clues to a lost treasure. Chef Nicky Fiorini helps unravel the clues, and attraction ignites, but Dani is hiding her own secret. Just as she and Nicky are on the verge of solving the mystery, internal fighting breaks out in the gang. Dani is caught the middle, and Nicky is furious. Then the diary leads to a hidden room and a shocking discovery, but have they missed the real treasure? (Contemporary Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Romantic Suspense Releases:

Guarding the Witness by Margaret Daley -- Arianna Jackson was used to guarding people, but because she saw something she shouldn't, she ends up being protected by a U.S. Marshal. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired)

Stolen Identity by Lisa Harris -- Danielle Corbit doesn't understand why someone would want to steal her identity. But after discovering a dead body on the Oregon coastline she's attacked by a dangerous hacker who will stop at nothing to frame her. Only her former fiance, Jason Ryan, is willing to help. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired).

Plain Pursuit by Alison Stone When her brother is killed in a small Amish town, Anna Quinn discovers she's an unwelcome outsider. But the FBI agent investigating the case is right at home--because Eli Miller was born and raised in Apple Creek's Plain community. Eli left his Amish faith behind long ago, but his heart is rooted in a local cold case he can't forget--a mystery with strange connections to Anna's loss. Desperate to uncover the truth, Anna and Eli are faced with stony silences and secrets...secrets that someone wants to keep buried in the past. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired).

Suspense/Mystery Releases:

The Good Girl by Christy Barritt -- The only time Tara Lancaster missed church was at seventeen because she had pneumonia and her mom made her stay home. But when her life shatters around her and her reputation is left in ruins, Tara decides escape is the only option. She flees halfway across the country to dog-sit, but the quiet anonymity she needs isn't waiting in her sister's house. Instead she finds a knife with a threatening message, a fame-hungry friend, a too-hunky neighbor, and evidence of...a ghost? Following all the rules has gotten her nowhere. And nothing she learned in Sunday School can tell her where to go from there. (Thriller/Suspense from Whitefire Publishing).

Dog Tags by Heidi Glick -- A former Marine determines to protect the woman he loves at all costs, and yet his own secrets might turn her against him forever. (Thriller/Suspense from Harbourlight Books).

Fear Has a Name by Creston Mapes -- Journalist Jack Crittendon fights to protect his family from a stalker's terrifying schemes, investigates a pastor's mysterious disappearance, and struggles to keep his faith amidst unthinkable fear. (Contemporary Thriller/Suspense from David C. Cook).

Deadly Devotion by Sandra Orchard -- Research scientist Kate Adams and her colleague Daisy are on the brink of a breakthrough for treating depression with herbal medicine when Daisy suddenly dies. Kate knows that if it hadn't been for Daisy's mentorship, she wouldn't have the job she loves or the faith she clings to. So when police rule Daisy's death a suicide, Kate is determined to unearth the truth.
Former FBI agent Tom Parker finds it hard to adjust to life back in his hometown of Port Aster. Tom's just trying to keep a low profile, so when Kate Adams demands he reopen the investigation of her friend's death, he knows his job is at stake. In fact, despite his attraction to her, Tom thinks Kate looks a bit suspicious herself. (Mystery from Revell [Baker]).

Historical Releases (not romance):

A Heart Deceived by Michelle Griep -- In this Regency historical romance, an opium addict bent on his next fix finds God through John Newton, and to avoid prison for a murder he didn't commit, runs to the sister of his best friend for help-only her brother is the one he is accused of killing. (General Historical from David C. Cook).

The Well: A Novel by Stephanie Landsem -- Mara is a desperate Samaritan girl searching for a miracle to save her dying mother, a journey that brings her unexpected joy and a heartbreaking decision. (General Historical from Howard [Simon and Schuster]).

General Contemporary Releases:

In Plain View (Valley of Choice) by Olivia Newport -- Annie Friesen has walked away from a successful career to live among the Amish-which turns out to be harder than she thought. (General Contemporary from Barbour Publishing).

Pretty is as Pretty Does: Class Reunion by Debby Mayne -- Priscilla Slater goes to her ten-year high school reunion with equal parts dread and eager anticipation. Even though she's a successful owner of a chain of hair salons, she still feels like the ugly duckling. But when she arrives at the reunion, Priscilla soon realizes that her old classmates aren't exactly as she remembers them. With humor and a just a touch of sassiness, Priscilla finds herself facing her own truth-and she may be surprised at what she discovers. (General Contemporary from Abingdon Press).

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Today is the Day!

My girl is so excited and we're going to have a great day!

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We Are Not Alone!

Chris Tomlin has so many great songs! I love this one, and it came to mind last night as I was praying for a friend's soldier son who was going to be in harm's way. While we are never guaranteed physical safety 100% of the time, we do have the promise that He is with us!

I know Who goes before me
I know Who stands behind
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side

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Wednesday Hodgepodge Freshness is Guaranteed!

It's Wednesday and time to join Joyce for the weekly Hodgepodge.

1. What question do you often ask yourself?

Which book in my stack scheduled to be reviewed first?

2. Do you grow roses? What's your favorite color of rose? Ever been given a dozen roses? Where was the prettiest rose or rose garden you remember seeing?

I don't grow roses. My favorite ones are yellow roses, and those were what we used in our wedding. My man has brought me a dozen roses several times. My favorites were my wedding bouquet, a mixture of yellow and white roses.

3. Do you read the freshness dates on grocery store products? Will you use eggs past their 'use by' date? Take medication that's expired? Buy a dented can?

I absolutely read the dates. I don't always use eggs by their dates, but I don't let them linger long. I am quick to toss most other things when they are past the date. I do use a little more discretion when it's a "sell by" vs. a "use by" date.

4. Should athletes be role models?

It's fine for them to be role models for athletics - for demonstrating how practice and perseverance pays off. I don't see why they should necessarily be role models for life or politics or anything else. (Same with celebrities, especially with politics. Why is it that just because someone makes a living as an actor or an actress or a talk show host, people think that person has more credibility in taking political stands?)

5. Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal became the first explorers to reach the top of Mt. Everest on this date (May 29) back in 1953. What's something you hope to achieve in your lifetime?

Answering all of Joyce's questions. And learning all the ins and outs of my new phone.

6. What would you do if you had twenty acres of land and the money to develop it any way you choose?

I have no idea, but if you want to give the land and the money to me, I'll be glad to research this question!

7. If I invite you to a party with a 7 PM start time, what time will I actually see you there?

A few minutes before 7:00. Unless my man is invited, then we'll probably be there about 7:05. But if it's up to me, I'll always be 5 minutes early. Remember, on time is the same as being late!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Friday's the big day! Cue up Pomp and Circumstance. As my girl has been saying about everything else this week, "Today is the last Wednesday Hodgepodge that I will have a school-age child."

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The Promise Box

The Promise Box
(Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors)
Tricia Goyer
(Zondervan)
ISBN: 978-0310335122
May 2013/336 pages/$14.99
With her heart – and her loyalty – on the line, can she let true love in her life?

Every year, young Amish men descend on the cozy little town of West Kootenai, Montana, arriving in the spring to live there for six months and receive ‘resident’ status for the hunting season in the fall. They arrive as bachelors, but go home with brides! Lydia Wyse, a book editor from Seattle who grew up Amish, returns to the small community of West Kootenai, Montana to give comfort to her father after her mother’s death.

She is drawn back to the familiar Amish ways after finding her mother’s most precious possession, a Promise Box of prayers and scripture. What her publisher sees, though, is an opportunity for a sensational ‘tell-all’ book about the Amish. Lydia soon finds herself falling in love with Amish bachelor Gideon Hooley. She wants nothing more than to forget her past and look forward to a future as an Amish bride. Will the pain of her childhood—and her potential betrayal of her community—keep her from committing her whole heart?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of six, grandmother of one, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.
In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Tricia, along with a group of friends, recently launched NotQuiteAmishLiving.com, sharing ideas about simplifying life. She also hosts the weekly radio podcast, Living Inspired. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com and on Facebook.

MY THOUGHTS

I love visiting the fictional town of West Kootenai, Montana through the books of Tricia Goyer. She has crafted an unusual Amish settlement where the Amish and English are less at odds than in many Amish novels, as they respect the differences and encourage the similarities in their beliefs. This can be read as a stand-alone, although several characters from The Memory Jar appear throughout the story, making it that much more enjoyable. I particularly connected with Lydia in this book since she was a book editor. The idea of a Promise Box that Lydia's mother left for her is such a sweet idea and would be a great thing for anyone to do, Amish or not. Don't miss this sweet story about holding on to God's promises.

Tricia Goyer is celebrating the release of her lastest novel, The Promise Box (Zondervan), by hosting an Amish Baking Box giveaway and connecting with readers during her June 12th Book Chat Party!

One "promising" winner will receive:

• Apron, hot mitts, and kitchen towels
  
• Amish baking items (rolling pin, pie plate, etc...)
• Sherry Gore's Simply Delicious Amish Cooking
• The Memory Jar and The Promise Box by Tricia Goyer 
  

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 11th. Winner will be announced at the "The Promise Box" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 12th. Connect with Tricia for an evening of Amish fun - book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Tricia will also share an exclusive look at the next book book in the Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of The Promise Box and join Tricia on the evening of June 12th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 12th!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Zondervan 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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A Heartbeat Away

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingA Heartbeat AwayAbingdon Press (May 1, 2013)
byS. Dionne Moore
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

S. Dionne Moore started writing in 2006. Her first book, Murder on the Ol’ Bunions, was contracted for publication by Barbour Publishing in 2008. In 2009 she moved on to writing historical romances as an outlet for her passion for history. In 2010 her second cozy mystery, Polly Dent Loses Grip, was a 2010 Carol Award finalist and she was also named a Barbour Publishing 2010 Favorite New Author. In 2011 her first historical romance, Promise of Tomorrow, was nominated a 2011 Carol Award finalist.

Born and raised in Manassas, Virginia, Moore moved to Greencastle, PA in 1993, then to Mercersburg in 2009. Moore enjoys life in the historically rich Cumberland Valley where traffic jams are a thing of the past and there are only two stoplights in the whole town.

For more information, visit her Website at www.sdionnemoore.com.
Follow her on Twitter: @sdionnemoore
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/sdionnemoore
Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/sdionnemoore

ABOUT THE BOOK

When a band of runaway slaves brings Union-loyal Beth Bumgartner a wounded Confederate soldier named Joe, it is the catalyst that pushes her to defy her pacifist parents and become a nurse during the Battle of Antietam.

Her mother's mysterious goodbye gift is filled with quilt blocks that bring comfort to Beth during the hard days and lonely nights, but as she sews each block, she realizes there is a hidden message of faith within the pattern that encourages and sustains her. Reunited with Joe, Beth learns his secret and puts the quilt's message to its greatest test—but can betrayal be forgiven?

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


Watch the video:


AHeartbeatAway - Medium from S. Dionne Moore on Vimeo.

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The Offering - Angela Hunt's Latest Must-Read!

The Offering
Angela Hunt
(Howard Books)
ISBN: 978-1439182055
May 2013/320 pages/$14.99
One innocent mistake . . . a lifetime of consequences.

After growing up an only child, Amanda Lisandra wants a big family. But since she and her soldier husband can’t afford to have more children right away, Mandy decides to earn money as a gestational carrier for a childless couple. She loves being pregnant, and while carrying the child, she dreams of having her own son and maybe another daughter. . . .

Just when the nearly perfect pregnancy is about to conclude, unexpected tragedy enters Mandy’s world and leaves her reeling. Devastated by grief, she surrenders the child she was carrying and struggles to regain her emotional equilibrium.

Two years later she studies a photograph of the baby she bore and wonders if the unthinkable has happened—could she have inadvertently given away her own biological child? Over the next few months Mandy struggles to decide between the desires of her grief-stricken heart and what’s best for the little boy she has never known.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

With over four million copies of her books sold worldwide, Angela Hunt is the bestselling author of more than one hundred books, including The Nativity Story. Hunt is one of the most sought-after collaborators in the publishing industry. Her nonfiction book Don’t Bet Against Me, written with Deanna Favre, spent several weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Angela’s novel The Note (with sales of over 141,000) was filmed as the Hallmark Channel’s Christmas movie for 2007 and proved to be the highest rated television movie in the channel’s history. Angela’s novels have won or been nominated for several prestigious industry awards, including the RITA, the Christy Award, the ECPA Christian Book Award, and the Holt Medallion. She often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences, and she served as the keynote speaker at the 2008 American Christian Fiction Writers’ national conference. She and her husband make their home in Florida with mastiffs. In 2001, one of her dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest dog in America.

Find out more about Angela at http://www.angelahuntbooks.com and on Facebook and Twitter.

MY THOUGHTS

I am thrilled when I get the latest book from Angela Hunt, but I always wait just a bit after getting it before I read it, simply to enjoy the anticipation a little longer--especially since I know that as soon as I finish it, I'll be waiting again! The Offering was definitely worth the wait! This is Hunt at her very best: a character novel that pulses with emotion and keeps me as glued to the pages as if it were a nail-biting, haunting suspense. Each of the characters in this novel--from Amanda and Gideon to Gideon's large familia to the parents whose child Amanda carries--play a unique and important role in this rich story. Full of passion, this novel plumbs the many complexities of emotions that often accompany the quest to become a parent. While not preachy or overbearing, The Offering, is thought-provoking, eye-opening, and gave me much to ponder, even long after I reached its touching conclusion. This is definitely a must-read!


Angela Hunt is celebrating the release of The Offering with a Nook HD Giveaway and an Author Chat Party on Facebook {6/5}.

One winner will receive:

• A Nook HD
  
• The Offering by Angela Hunt 
  

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 4th. Winner will be announced at the "The Offering" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 5th. Connect with Angela for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Angela will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of The Offering and join Angela on the evening of June 5th 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 5th!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Howard Books 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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