Saturday, November 30, 2013

Isfits from @JustinBlaney | A completely new genre of fiction


Hello! I'm partnering with Justin Blaney to help him spread the word about his fun new book series, Isfits.

He's launching the series with a Kickstarter campaign---he wants to turn these fun/unique stories into full-color, hardback, glossy-paged books.

Who's Justin? Justin Blaney is a virtuoso. He does a little of everything, but one of the coolest things he does (besides writing amazing stories) is run an organization called Innovate for Jesus (resources for pastors, ministry leaders, non profits, authors, etc.). The site features people like Francis Chan, Rick Warren, Pete Wilson, Matt Chandler, Mary DeMuth, and more.

Besides the super cool graphics, what is special about Isfits? Justin is releasing his Isfits series in the general kids book market rather than as Christian releases. His hope is to spread the gospel message to children who aren't normally exposed to Christian content.

What Is Isfits?
  • Postmodern fairytales & cautionary confessions
  • A cast of characters sampled from icons of adolescence, re-imagined.
  • A completely new genre of fiction. Since that's hard to describe, let's call it a graphic novel like you've never seen before.
  • Nearly 200 original designs, optimized for inspirational display in your home, office, prison cell, igloo, or hut.
Click here for more information. If you'd like to sign up to review the first book in the series, Cinderella Goes to the Potty (It's a five-minute read! You'll love it!), email info {at} litfusegroup {dot} com (and be entered to win $100 Amazon.com gift card!).  And if you'd like to learn more and support Justin's Kickstarter, GO HERE.

 
 
Book Info
An Isfits book.

Isfits . . . postmodern fairy tales and cautionary confessions.
Cinderella scratched a new line on the wall every night when the clock struck twelve. For 999 nights, she'd sworn to herself that she wouldn't stay long enough to see 1000. Cinderella heard the old man and the old woman clunking up the stairs. The clock began to chime. Cinderella was out of time. She had a decision to make---the kind of decision that could change her life or take it from her.

What Is Isfits?

A cast of characters sampled from icons of adolescence, re-imagined.
A graphic novel, like you've never seen before.
This eBook is 1/6th the full length graphic novel. Read it in about 5 minutes. Enjoy for years.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qx7Hp

Join the Isfits' launch team: http://ow.ly/qx7I7

Support the Kickstart (Do good and get COOL stuff!): http://ow.ly/qx7Ju

About the author: Justin Blaney is the author of the Amazon bestseller Evan Burl and the Falling which reached the #1 position in fantasy, teen and thriller categories. His latest project is "Isfits," a series of graphically illustrated postmodern fairytales and cautionary confessions for young adults. The stories follow the adventures of a cast of characters based on icons of adolescence placed in a darkly-humored world of blissful brokenness where they possess the power to affect cultural and personal change in the real world. Blaney is the founder of Innovate for Jesus (www.I4J.org) and Inkliss, a film production company. He lives outside Seattle with his wife and three daughters.

Learn more about Justin at: www.JustinBlaney.com
 
My Review -
 
I was so curious when I received the invite for this blog tour and was not really sure what to expect with this, but I was not disappointed!  Justin has started an incredible new series and type of story that will be sure to be a hit with many for many years!  I loved Cinderella growing up and this is such a cute little twist with this character and story!  Each and every page and scene is so unique with the pictures, the layouts, and styles; each page is a treat and one that you will want to completely study before moving on to the next.  This is suited for older children as it is not for young children at all as some pages are eerie and may be frightening. This is a fascinating new genre that I'm sure we will see much more of! 
 
*Thanks to LItfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour!*

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Stones for Bread KitchenAid Mixer Giveaway from Christa Parrish! Pin It & Win It!


Enter Today | 11/18 - 12/7!
christa parrish stones for bread
Christa Parrish is celebrating her fourth novel, Stones for Breadwith a KitchenAid Mixer giveaway.
#StonesforBread KitchenAid Mixer Contest #ChristaParrish http://bit.ly/1aBTNz9

Easy steps to enter:

1. Follow Christa Parrish and TNZ Fiction on Pinterest.

2. Then Pin the Stones for Bread book cover (below), the contest graphic (above), or both, and link to this post (using this URL: #StonesforBread KitchenAid Mixer Contest #ChristaParrish http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/stones-for-bread-by-christa-parrish).

3. Then fill out THIS SHORT FORM to let us know. (There are also some additional ways to earn extra entries, as well as an option for non-Pinterest users. It's true—people like that do exist!)

Questions? Email info @ litfusegroup dot com.

Winner will be announced on 12/9 on Christa's Facebook Page.




Book Info
About the book: A solitary artisan. A legacy of bread-baking. And one secret that could collapse her entire identity.

Liesl McNamara's life can be described in one word: bread. From her earliest memory, her mother and grandmother passed down the mystery of baking and the importance of this deceptively simple food. And now, as the owner of Wild Rise bake house, Liesl spends every day up to her elbows in dough, nourishing and perfecting her craft.

But the simple life she has cultivated is becoming quite complicated. Her head baker brings his troubled grandson into the bakeshop as an apprentice. Her waitress submits her recipes to a popular cable cooking show. And the man who delivers her flour --- a single father with strange culinary 
habits --- seems determined to win Liesl's affection.

When Wild Rise is featured on television, her quiet existence appears a thing of the past. And then a phone call from a woman claiming to be her half-sister forces Liesl to confront long-hidden secrets in her family's past. With her precious heritage crumbling around her, the baker must make a choice: allow herself to be buried in detachment and remorse, or take a leap of faith into a new life.

Purchase your copy: http://ow.ly/qPvoG
 Meet the author: Christa Parrish is the award-winning author of three novels, including the 2009 ECPA Fiction Book of the Year Watch Over Me. When she's not writing, she's a homeschool mother of three wonderful children. Married to author and pastor Chris Coppernoll, Christa serves with him as co-leader of their church's youth ministry as well as serving as a facilitator for a divorce recovery ministry. She is now also slightly obsessed with the art of baking bread.

Learn more about Christa at: http://christaparrish.com




My Review:

"Stones for Bread" is an interesting read that drew me into the world of baking bread, family secrets and the sense of community.  Liesl has people in her life that cause family secrets to unravel and they force Liesl to take a hard look are herself.  There are so many people hurting in the world and a lot of the hurting is unseen to others and the sense of community that comes alive in this book is inspiring.  This is a read that should be read slowly and savored as it is thought-provoking and one that will give you a new perspective on your life and situation. 

*Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour and for the complimentary copy of this book.*

To read other reviews included on this blog tour, go here.

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Book Review: "Christmas at Harmony Hill"

Ann H. Gabhart's Christmas novel, "Christmas at Harmony Hill: A Shaker Story," is a read that takes you back in time to the mid 1800's with a story of hope and forgiveness.

Heather Worth is in the midst of the Civil War alongside her Yankee husband; however she is pregnant and near to the time for the baby's birth, so her husband sends her home.  However, Heather is turned away from her home.  Heather is directed to go to the Shaker community to be with her aunt and this appears to be just what Heather needs at this time, as well as some others.

I really enjoyed this book!  It is a quick read and one that will have you hooked on the story right from the very beginning!  I love reading stories from this time period and this one being a story focusing on the Shaker community as well is an added bonus as there are so many historical details and facts about this community.  This is a book that will enjoyed each Christmas!


 “Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Book Review: "A Simple Christmas Wish"

I have been looking forward to this year's Christmas novella release from Melody Carlson!  "A Simple Christmas Wish" is another wonderful Christmas novella from Melody and a perfect story to get you into the Christmas spirit!
Rachel's only family is her brother, sister-in-law and niece and when a tragedy occurs, Rachel and her niece are left alone together.  However, Rachel's world is turned upside down once again when she is given the news that in her brother's will, Holly is to be sent to live with an aunt whom neither have met or heard of.  Rachel finds out that her sister-in-law Miri grew up Amish and has been estranged from her family.  However, now Miri's sister is granted custody of Holly; Holly that only family whom Rachel has left.  As Rachel and Holly travel to the Amish settlement, Holly has her mind set to convince the Amish relatives that Holly belongs with her.  After arriving and spending time with Holly's other relatives both girls are in for surprises this Christmas.

I really enjoyed "A Simple Christmas Wish!"  This is a quick read and I was drawn into the story right away.  The story begins with Holly and Rachel getting a Christmas tree and decorating it while Holly's parents are on vacation and this is one of the things that leads Rachel to thinking about her life and Holly's life and priorities in life.  Never imaging that she would receive the phone call that comes later that night, Rachel's life is forever changed.  This is such a sweet Christmas story and one that will leave you smiling and reminded of how precious life is and the everyday moments that we may at times take for granted.

“Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Friday, November 22, 2013

Favorite Austen Moments KINDLE HDX Giveaway, Pinterest Contest and Facebook Party! And Book Review - "Dear Mr. Knightley"


Enter Today | 11/14 - 12/3!
Dear Mr. Knightley Katherine Reay
Debut author Katherine Reay is celebrating the release of her delightful novel, Dear Mr. Knightley, with a Kindle Fire HDX giveaway, a fun Favorite Austen Moments Pinterest contest, and an Austen-themed Facebook Party.
dearmrknightley-400

  One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire HDX
  • Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
  • Handmade Austen-themed items (scarf, mug, bracelet, and necklace) 
Two ways to win! Enter today by clicking one of the icons below or participating in the Pinterest contest (see banner below)—or BOTH! 

But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 3rd. Winner will be announced at the "Dear Mr. Knightley" Austen-themed Facebook Author Chat Party on the 3rd. Join Katherine (and Austen fans) for an evening of book chat, prizes, and an exclusive look at Katherine's next book.

So grab your copy of  Dear Mr. Knightley and join Katherine on the evening of December 3rd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST. Hope to see you on the 3rd!


 
Book Info
About the book: Samantha Moore has always hidden behind the words of others-namely her favorite characters in literature. Now, she will learn to write her own story-by giving that story to a complete stranger.
Growing up orphaned and alone, Sam found her best friends in the works of Austen, Dickens, and the Brontë sisters. The problem is that she now relates to others more comfortably as Elizabeth Bennet and Jane Eyre than as herself.

Sometimes we lose ourselves in the things we care about most.
But life for this twenty-three-year-old is about to get stranger than fiction, when an anonymous benefactor (calling himself "Mr. Knightley") offers to put Sam through the prestigious Medill School of Journalism. There is only one catch: Sam must write frequent letters to the mysterious donor, detailing her progress.

As Sam's program and peers force her to confront her past, she finds safety in her increasingly personal letters to Mr. Knightley. And when Sam meets eligible, best-selling novelist Alex Powell, those letters unfold a story of love and literature that feels as if it's pulled from her favorite books. But when secrets come to light, Sam is --- once again --- made painfully aware of how easily trust can be broken.

Reay's debut novel follows one young woman's journey as she sheds her protective persona and embraces the person she was meant to become.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qDEkp

Meet the author: Katherine Reay has enjoyed a life-long affair with the works of Jane Austen and her contemporaries. After earning degrees in history and marketing from Northwestern University, she worked as a marketer for Proctor & Gamble and Sears before returning to school to earn her MTS. Her works have been published in "Focus on the Family" and the "Upper Room." Katherine currently lives with her husband and three children in Seattle. "Dear Mr. Knightley" is her first novel.

Learn more about Katherine at: http://katherinereay.com/
My /Review:
I loved Katherine Reay's debut novel, "Dear Mr. Knightley," and it is one that fans of classical works will not want to miss out on! Samantha "Sam" has had a difficult life, and has always escaped in the works of her favorite authors.  Sam is given the chance to attend Journalism school, but she must write letters to her benefactor.  As Sam begins this new chapter in her life, she moves out of her comfort zone of living in the lives of her favorite characters and revisits her own past.
I really enjoyed "Dear Mr. Knightley!"  It was a unique and fresh approach as this book is filled with letters, letters written by Sam that allow the reader insight into her thoughts and life. This is such a well-written book and such a powerful story of a woman's growth and journey.  This is a must read for fans of Jane Austen!
 
To read other reviews of this book included on this blog tour, go here!
 
*Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for the complimentary copy of this book and for including me on this blog tour!*

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Quilts of Love KINDLE FIRE HDX Giveaway & “Christmas Bee” Facebook Party 12/10!


Enter Today | 11/15 - 11/30!
Quilts of love vannetta chapman lisa carter
In honor of their new Quilts of Love releases, The Christmas Quilt and Aloha Rose, authors Vannetta Chapman and Lisa Carter are gearing up to ring in the Christmas season with a Kindle Fire HDX giveaway and a "Christmas Bee" Facebook Party on December 10th with fellow Quilts of Love author Lynette Sowell!
qol-400

One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire HDX
  • The Christmas Quilt by Vannetta Chapman
  • Aloha Rose by Lisa Carter
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 30th. Winner will be announced at the "Christmas Bee" Facebook Party on December 10th. Connect with the authors from the Quilts of Love series, Vannetta Chapman, Lisa Carter, and Lynette Sowell, for an evening of book chat, quilt trivia, Christmas traditions and gifts, PLUS get an exclusive look at January's Quilts of Love book!

So grab your copies of The Christmas Quilt and Aloha Rose and join Vannetta, Lisa, and Lynette on the evening of December 10th for a chance to connect 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 by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on December 10th!

 
Book Info
About the book: When Laney Carrigan's adoptive parents encourage her as an adult to seek out her birth family, her only clue is the Lokelani quilt in which she was found wrapped as an infant. Centering her search on the Big Island, she battles fears of rejection from a family that abandoned her once before while her faith struggles to embrace God's love.
Along the path to her true heritage, she meets Hawaiian cowboy/helicopter pilot, Kai Barnes. Kai is determined to protect the people he's come to regard as family against a woman he suspects of being nothing more than a gold-digger, but he finds himself drawn to Laney in spite of his reservations. He's spent his entire life seeking forgiveness from past mistakes and longs for a second chance at happiness. 

Laney's painstaking journey to find restoration and a place to belong among the breathtaking allure of the Big Island will lead her closer to her past and maybe even something more.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qKmVW

Meet the author: Lisa Carter has been published in MomSense and Christian Parenting Today. Lisa is currently teaching music at a preschool and enjoying the enthusiasm and joy for life for which preschoolers are famous. She and David have two beautiful daughters.

Find out more at: http://www.quiltsoflovebooks.com
 
 
 
 
My Review:
Lisa Carter's novel, "Aloha Rose," is part of the Quilts of Love series and this book is one of my favorites that I have read so far in the series! Laney thought that she had found her forever family; however she upholds her promise to her adoptive mother that she will seek her biological family.  With the help of her adoptive father posting a picture of the quilt that Laney was wrapped in when she was found, Laney sets off for Hawaii to meet her family.  Laney is greeted by Kai, whom was taken in as a foster child by Laney's aunt and he is set to protect his family and is no sure of Laney and her motives.  Kai and Laney both have issues to deal with from their past that they must confront and work through for themselves, but as they spend time together they realize that they are alike in many ways and that their hearts are realizing this too as they are being drawn together.  This book has such a beautiful setting that is described with vivid detail, and filled with characters whom are hurting and searching for answers and closure and most importantly love and a family. "Aloha Rose" is a well-written, sweet story that is easy to get into and one that will be loved!
 
To read other reviews of this book, go here!
 
 
Book Info
About the book: Annie's life is deliciously full as the Christmas season approaches. She helps her husband, Samuel, attend to the community's minor medical needs. She occasionally assists Belinda, the local midwife, and most days, she finds herself delivering the buggy to her brother Adam. Annie's sister-in-law Leah is due to deliver their first child before Christmas morning, and Annie is determined to finish a crib quilt before the boppli arrives. With six weeks to go, she should have no problem . . . but God may have a different plan. Leah is rushed to the English hospital when the infant arrives early, and Annie discovers the Christmas quilt may hold a far greater significance than she ever imagined.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qKnYD

Meet the author: Vannetta Chapman has published over one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, receiving over two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather's birthplace in Albion, Pennsylvania. Chapman lives in the Texas hill country with her husband.

Find out more at: http://www.quiltsoflovebooks.com
 
 
My Review:
 Vanetta Chapman's "The Christmas Quilt" is also part of the Quilts of Love series and this is an emotional read that will draw you completely into the story and the characters' lives.  Annie and Leah are friends and sisters-in-law.  Annie is attempting to make a quilt for Leah as she is soon to deliver; however things do not go as they thought and Leah is hospitalized.  Annie with her nursing background goes to the hospital and there she and Leah spend hours together working on the quilt and also sharing their hearts.  Although life is not going according to Leah or Annie's plan, it is going according to God's plan and this Christmas season with be a time of healing and love with the help of the Christmas quilt. I really enjoyed this book!  Many issues are addressed and the characters are so real that it is so easy to become engrossed in their lives and empathize with them.  I love the significance of the quilt and the stories behind the squares and the healing that this piece of work and love provides.  This is an excellent addition to the series!

To read other reviews on this book, go here!


*Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on these blog tours and for the complimentary copies of these books!*
 
 

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Book Review - "A Confident Heart Devotional"

Renee Swope's "A Confident Heart Devotional: 60 Days to Stop Doubting Yourself" is a must-read for every woman as it has a message that each one needs to be reminded of and can be life-changing. 
This devotional book is filled with 60 chapters, 60 devotionals that are short, sweet, and so very encouraging.  Renee's style of writing is so easy to read and get into; it is as if you and her are sitting together chatting and sipping mugs of coffee.  Each chapter/devotional is only a couple of pages long so it is easy to make time each day to read a chapter.  A verse is shared at the beginning of a chapter, then Renee's reflections and  Biblical lessons are shared related to the topic of the chapter.  The chapter ends with a prayer and a "When I say - God says" statement. 
I enjoyed this devotional book so much and will reread it several times I am sure as it is so easy to doubt myself and need a little boost and reminder and Renee's book will do just that!

“Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Book Review - "a million little ways"

Emily P. Freeman's latest book, "A Million Little Ways: uncover the art you were made to live," is a book that is encouraging and one that you will want to hold onto to read in times of needing a reminder to live life as the person you were created to be.
This book is divided into three sections that are further divided by chapters.  The first section focuses on whom the artist is in our lives, the artist being God. The second section focuses on discovering what type of art each of us was meant to make. Lastly, the third section is about sharing the art that we make. 
It is so easy to become stuck in a rut in our lives and just go through the motions and not really put our heart into everyday life.  It is also so very easy to think and believe that we do not have anything to offer or we are so afraid of failure or how we are perceived by others that we are not truly living our life and living as who we were made to be.  Emily's book is the book to read when thinking these thoughts and needing a reminder of just who has created each of us and is just waiting for us to share our art with the world. 
This is a book that is so easy to read and so easy to get lost in, and one that you will want to get lost in.  I highly recommend this book to each and everyone - take time to read and savor it!

“Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Book Review - "Country Faith"

Book Description from the publisher:

Pour yourself a fresh, cold glass of sweet tea and ease into your favorite chair with a copy of the Once-A-Day Country Faith. You’ll enjoy a front row seat to an intimate look at your favorite country stars as they discuss the personal significance of their favorite Bible passage. With contributions from 56 of today’s top country artists, the Once-A-Day Country Faith includes the Bible passage that tops each of their charts as well as the reasons why this part of scripture is so valuable to them. After reading Country Faith, you’ll be inspired to identify the Bible passage that’s most meaningful to you. You’ll also listen to your favorite country artists in a whole new way.

My Review:

"Country Faith" is a collection of 56 Bible verses that have been selected by 56 country artists.  Each artist shares their personal thoughts in regards to the verse that each one has chosen.  There is a beautiful photograph of each artist included alongside the passage and reflection shared by each one.  The book concludes with the book of Mark being shared along with an encouraging note to think about what verse or passage means the most to you and why and to share that with others as this is the purpose of the book - sharing the Good News.  At first I was expecting a little more from this book, a little bit more about the country star and his or her faith, but after rereading the book's description I found that the book fits the description.  This book is a beautiful, hardback edition that will make a beautiful gift for any country music fan and would make a great addition to every home as it is a book that can be picked up and paged through offering a bit of encouragement and inspiration!

*Thanks to Booksneeze for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Monday, November 11, 2013

Book Review - "The Governess of Highland Hall"

Carrie Turansky has created a masterpiece with her novel, "The Governess of Highland Hall!"  The style of writing and vivid details bring this novel to life - I could picture the setting and became so immersed in the characters' lives while reading this book!
Julia takes on the task of caring for Sir William's children as their governess.  Very quickly she discovers that that is not the only way that she is needed here, as Sir William rarely spends time with his children and they are missing having a father and Sir William's sister needs assistance as well.  As Julia adjusts to her new role she finds herself settling into the position, but also losing her heart not only to the children, but also to Sir William himself; however Julia is merely the help.  Will these two allow their hearts to lead them even if it means crossing social class lines?
This is such a beautiful and well-written story!  I did not want to stop reading once I started!  I am looking forward to future books from Carrie. This is a must-read for historical romance fans, you do not want to miss out on this gem of a book!

*Thanks to WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Book Review - "Beloved" & iPad Mini Giveaway!


Enter Today - 10/28 - 11/15!
beloved robin lee hatcher
Robin Lee Hatcher is celebrating the release of her latest novel, Belovedwith an iPad Mini giveaway! 
beloved-rafflecopter
 
  One winner will receive:
  • An iPad Mini
  • Beloved by Robin Lee Hatcher
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 15th. Winner will be announced November 16th at Robin's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Robin's blog on the 16th to see if you won. (Or, better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner announcement delivered to your inbox!)!

 
Book Info
About the book: Diana is ready to begin a new chapter in her life-until the husband she believed dead reappears at her engagement party.

Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving no word from him in years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.

But when Tyson returns, claiming to be a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom.

He agrees with one condition---she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qb0G2

Meet the author: Robin is the author of 65+ novels and novellas. Her home is in Idaho, where she spends her time writing stories of faith, courage, and love; pondering the things of God; and loving her family and friends.

Learn more at: http://www.robinleehatcher.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
My Review:
 
"Beloved" is the third book in Robin Lee Hatcher's Where The Heart Lives series and it is one that historical romance fans will not want to miss out on!  The book begins right off with an event that is sure to grip you and hold your attention all the way to the end!  This is a fun book to read with a great storyline and characters whom you cannot help but love!  Diana is ready to move on with her life, her life that has been anything from smooth and now she is shocked with her husband being alive and once again her life is off course.  As Tyson sets out to prove to Diana that he has changed, you will enjoy reading and seeing these two find out who they are married to and how their feelings will grow and change.  I highly recommend this entire series and really anything by this author!
 
To read other reviews included on this blog tour, go here!
 
*Thanks to LItfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour and for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Saturday, November 9, 2013

Book Review - "The Smart Woman's Guide to Planning for Retirement"

Mary Hunt's latest book is a must-read for women of any age!  "The Smart Woman's Guide to Planning for Retirement: how to save for your future today" is not light reading, but something so important to begin reading today! Mary is such a great author and the perfect person to write on this subject.  Her style of writing is so easy to read, especially when it is the serious stuff, like the subject of money and saving money.  Mary shares her own experiences, stories and opinions mixed in with facts and research giving the reader a lot to think about and the motivation to make some lifestyle and financial changes.  The chapters are relatively short and not overwhelming to read.  There are so many great tips in here and easy approaches to begin saving today for retirement.  I highly recommend this book, one to begin today!

“Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Book Review - "Singularity"

Steven James' latest suspense novel, "Singularity," will keep you turning the pages and on the edge of your seat.  Jevin Banks returns in this sequel to "Placebo" and he is on the hunt for a killer; however he is digging deeper than he or anyone would have imagined would have been needed.  This is not a book that is all nice and everything falls into place.  There is so much evil in the world and the evil comes through in this book as is needed to really have the story come together.  There are so many pieces and layers to this story as well as some many characters and their perspectives that the story is told through.  If you are a fan of Steven James' book, this one is a must-read! 

“Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Shannon Ethridge’s TO KNOW YOU giveaway and Facebook Party! & Book Review: "To Know You"


Enter Today | 11/1 - 11/19
Shannon Ethridge's TO KNOW YOU
Shannon Ethridge is celebrating the release of  To Know You (co-written by Kathryn Mackel), by giving away a $100 gift certificate to Lisa Leonard Designs and a personal coaching session, as well as throwing a Facebook Author Chat Party!
toknowyou-rafflecopter

One winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 19th. Winner will be announced at the "To Know You" Facebook Author Chat Party on the 19th. Connect with Shannon and friends for an encouraging evening of fun chat, book club discussion, giveaways, and a chance to win a PERSONAL COACHING SESSION WITH SHANNON!

So grab your copy of To Know You and join Shannon on the evening of November 19th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)
Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word — tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER or Pinterest and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on 11/19!
 
 
Book Info
About the book: Julia Whittaker's rocky past yielded two daughters, both given up for adoption as infants. Now she must find them to try to save her son.

Julia and Matt Whittaker's son has beaten the odds for thirteen years only to have the odds---and his liver---crash precipitously. The only hope for his survival is a "living liver" transplant, but the transplant list is long and Dillon's time is short. His two older half-sisters, born eighteen months apart to two different fathers, offer his only hope for survival.

But can Julia ask a young woman---someone she surrendered to strangers long ago and has never spoken with---to make such a sacrifice to save a brother she's never known? Can she muster the courage to journey back into a shame-filled season of her life, face her choices and their consequences, and find any hope of healing?
And what if she discovers in her own daughters' lives that a history of foolish choices threatens to repeat itself? Julia knows she's probably embarking on a fool's errand---searching for the daughters she abandoned only now that she needs something from them. But love compels Julia to take this journey. Can grace and forgiveness compel her daughters to join her?

In To Know You, Shannon Ethridge and Kathryn Mackel explore how the past creates the present . . . and how even the most shattered lives can be redeemed.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qbiOA
About the authors: Shannon Ethridge is a best-selling author, speaker, and certified life coach with a master's degree in counseling/human relations from Liberty University. She has spoken to college students and adults since 1989 and is the author of 21 books, including the million-copy best-selling Every Woman's Battle series. She is a frequent guest on TV and radio programs and mentors aspiring writers and speakers through her BLAST Program (Building Leaders, Authors, Speakers & Teachers.)

Learn more about Shannon: http://www.shannonethridge.com

Kathryn Mackel is a best-selling author and acclaimed screenwriter for Disney and Fox. She was on the screenwriting team for Left Behind: The Movie, and Frank Peretti's Hangman's Curse. She is the acclaimed author of "The Surrogate", "The Departed", and "The Hidden" and resides in Boston, Massachusetts, with her husband.
Learn more about Kathryn: http://www.kathrynmackel.com
 
 
My Review:
"To Know You" is one of those novels that is completely engrossing and has you thinking about long after you finish reading. Julia and Matt are faced with the horrifying thought that their son might not live long as his only hope is to receive a living liver transplant.  This need forces Julia to face her past and her daughters whom she gave up to other parents years ago.  I was immediately drawn into the story and the characters' lives.  "To Know You" is such an excellent book, it is an emotional read that will have you drawn into the characters' lives and going through this journey right alongside with them.  Julia's story is one that will have each of us thinking about how our choices have consequences and yet also a beautiful reminder of the power of love and forgiveness. 
 
If you would like to read other reviews on this book, go here! 
 
*Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour and for the complimentary copy of this book!*

Catie’s Secret Kindle Fire Kid Pack Giveaway from Laura Nonemaker & Book Review - "Catie's Secret"


Enter Today | 11/8 - 11/23
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Catie’s Secret is the second book in Laura Allen Nonemaker’s children’s series, God’s Secret Garden Adventures. Laura is celebrating Catie's Secret with a Kindle Fire Kid Pack giveaway!
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  One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • Butterfly Pavilion Hatching Kit
  • Butterfly Pattern Carryall Bag
  • Butterfly Suncatcher Kit
  • Benny's Angel T-Shirt (small)
  • Catie's Secret and Benny's Angel with free E-Live audio downloads by Laura Nonemaker
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 23rd. Winner will be announced November 25th at Laura's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Laura's blog on the 25th to see if you won.

     Book Info                                     
About the book: Catie Caterpillar looks different from any bug Herbie and Bella have ever seen. When Herbie makes fun of Catie, Mayor Benny shows him why he should not judge anyone by how they look. In the end, Catie reveals a secret and the bunnies learn the joy of forgiveness.

Catie's Secret is the second book in Laura Allen Nonemaker's children's series, God's Secret Garden Adventures. Like the previous book, Benny's Angel, Catie's Secret invites young readers to join an exciting adventure while it teaches a valuable lesson.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qmZ3s

About the author: Laura began writing as a child in Bermuda when a favorite teacher had one of her essays published in a local newspaper. She is a contributing writer for Kentucky Monthly Magazine and her first children's book, Benny's Angel, was published in 2011. She is on the planning team for Artful Missions, which produces juried art shows and donates most of the proceeds to ministries that help women and children escape human trafficking. When Laura is not dreaming up her next God's Garden adventure, she enjoys spending time with her large family.

Connect with Laura at: http://godsgarden.tateauthor.com
 
My Review:
 
"Catie's Secret," written by Laura Allen Nonemaker, is a part of her God's Secret Garden Adventure series and it is an adorable book that teaches children (young and old!) a valuable lesson.  Herbie and Bella meet Catie and she is different from anyone they have met and Herbie teases her.  Feeling bad about this, they return to the garden each day to try and find Catie to apologize.  Suddenly, one day they find Catie and she looks different as her secret has been revealed.  Mayor Benny helps these creatures discover the importance of teaching others kindly and that everyone is special, no matter how different they may be to us.  This is such an important lesson for kids to learn and everyone of all ages to remember.  I really enjoyed sharing this story with my children and it is one that will be read many times.  The book is a good length as it is long enough to share the story and lesson, yet short enough so that children do not lose interest or become antsy while reading and/or listening to the book.  Laura is a new author to me and I am excited to check out the other books in this series to share with my children as well!
 
 
To read other reviews written by individuals participating in this blog tour go here!
 
*Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour and for the complimentary copy of this book!*
 
 

Friday, November 8, 2013

Celebrate Christmas early with Colleen Coble, Tricia Goyer, and Beth Wiseman!


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

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

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

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

About the Book: Holy Night: One sinister phone call has derailed their wedding. Will they let it tear them apart forever?

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

Now they can hardly wait for the day to arrive. Thrilled to be a bridesmaid, Eva keeps trying on her ruffled dress. The tent is reserved, the caterers paid. Everything is going as planned---until Leia's phone rings and her world skids out of control. A muffled voice informs Leia that Eva's been kidnapped and will be killed unless Leia calls off the wedding without explanation---and no police! If she disobeys instructions and tells Bane, she'll risk her beloved sister's life. But how can she ever handle this without his help? And how can he ever trust her if she lies to him now?
 
My Review:
Colleen Coble has been one of my favorite authors for a long time now and I was thrilled to get the chance to read some more books by her!  "Holy Night" is a well-written mystery filled with secrecy, love, and lessons to be learned.  I was expecting a sweet Christmas story, and was surprised when I started to read the book and Eva is kidnapped and Leia is faced with tough choices, but I was immediately hooked on the story and had to keep on reading page after page!  Leia and Bane love each other, but each have their own issues to work through and are tested at a stressful time and with a very stressful event as to whether they are meant to be joined together as man and wife.  I highly recommend this Christmas story, be prepared for a beautiful setting, easy to love characters, and mystery!
Silent Night: As Christmas day nears, Bree and her faithful search-and-rescue dog Samson follow the trail of a troubling mystery into the snowy forests of Rock Harbor.

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

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

Will the search on this snowy, silent night lead Bree and Samson to more than clues about the missing girl? And will Bree's prayer for a baby ever be answered?
 
My Review:
 
Colleen Coble takes the reader back to her Rock Harbor series in her novella "Silent Night" and the reader is able to spend time again with Bree, Kade and Lauri.  This is a quick read that will keep you completely engrossed in the storyline and in the characters' lives.  Bree is dealing with heartache while trying to prepare for Christmas and she is surprised when her sister shows up early and seems to hiding something.  As these characters follow this trail, they discover some surprises this Christmas season.  This is a quick read that fans of Colleen Coble will not want to miss out on!


Purchase a copy of Holy Night: http://ow.ly/qbrG0

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

Find out more about Colleen at http://www.colleencoble.com.

About the Book: Inspired by a true story, A Christmas Gift for Rose is a heartwarming novella of sacrifice and deep love.

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

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

My Review:

I really enjoyed Tricia Goyer's Christmas novella, "A Christmas Gift for Rose."  Rose was planning to be married by now, but her fiancée joined the military, which is not the Amish way. However, Rose becomes even more conflicted and unsure of what to feel and her place in her family and the Amish community when Rose is told that her family is not her birth family, she was really born to English parents. As Rose tries to sort through her feelings, Jonathan is doing everything he can to help Rose, the woman he still loves, to find her place in the world and discover who she is. This book is filled with struggles, relationships between family members, and the magic of Christmas. Rose is given a wonderful gift at Christmas and she learns that families are not always just the members whom share blood. This is a book that can be related to and the characters empathized with no matter the reader's background.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qbs31

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

Find out more about Tricia at http://triciagoyer.com.

About the Book: A Daughters of Promise book.

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

Anna Byler should be enjoying her Rumspringa as allowed by her faith. But because of the strict rules enforced by her grandfather---the bishop---the available suitors in town are afraid to court her. Even Anna's grandmother is keeping a big secret from Anna's grandfather in an effort to keep the peace. Under her grandfather's oppressive watch, Anna begins to feel her faith slipping and wonders if God has forsaken her.
Jacob Hostetler and his family have relocated to Lancaster County following a family tragedy in Ohio. As his family struggles to rebuild their lives, Jacob is forced to act as head of the household when his father is unable to cope with recent events. It's been a long time since Jacob has felt any joy. Until he meets Anna Byler. But will Anna's grandfather succeed at keeping them apart? And can Jacob put the past behind him and open his heart?
My Review:
Beth Wiseman's latest Daughters of Promise book, "Plain Peace," is a story that readers will enjoy this Christmas season!  Anna is caught between trying to please her grandparents whom have always been there, and trying to be happy and choose the one whom her heart loves.  Anna's grandfather, the bishop, has strict rules and this causes a wedge between them and some of the other people in the community.  Jacob decides Anna is worth pursuing even though it will be a challenge and Anna discovers that she does not want to live without Jacob.  However, this is not going to be easy as Jacob is struggling with issues from his past and Anna's grandfather does not want these two together.  This story will have you empathizing with the characters and have you thinking about how much you will fight for the one you love.   

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qbsj7
About the Author: Beth is a Carol Award Winner, Inspirational Readers Choice Winner, INSPY Winner, and the best-selling author of the Daughters of the Promise series and the Land of Canaan series. All of her books have held spots on the ECPA (Evangelical Christian Publishers Association) bestseller list and the CBA (Christian Book Association) bestseller list. She grew up in Houston, Texas and now resides in a small town west of Houston with a population of around 300. She lives with her husband, two dogs, two cats, two pot bellied pigs, two chickens and a pygmy goat. Her two grown sons also live in Texas. Beth has been writing in some capacity for most of her life. She's a former award-winning journalist with eleven honors, including 'First Place News Writing' for The Texas Press Association. However, writing love stories with a spiritual message is where her heart is. When Beth isn't writing (which is seldom these days) she enjoys traveling, cooking, fishing, reading, or just settling in for a good movie. Her best times are spent with family and friends!

Find out more about Beth at http://bethwiseman.com.
 
Do not miss out on this party or any of these books!   All four of these books are excellent ways to relax and look forward to this Christmas season!
 
*Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour!*