Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

Yesterday in St. Louis it was 50 degrees. Today the wind chill is -1 and there is enough snow that school has been cancelled. St. Louisians know that the common joke is, "if you hate the weather, just wait a day and it will change." How true that is!

So many things in this world change around us on a daily basis. Just think of the foods we eat. For years eggs were 'the perfect food', now they are to be avoided because of cholesterol. Red meat was pretty much the same until the Atkins diet, then meat was ok and carbs were evil. And diet soda -- it was the savior for those who were overweight until we discovered that not only are artificial sweeteners unhealthy, they can make us want to eat more! If you don't like what you are told to eat, wait a day and it will change!

Everywhere we look we see mixed messages. "Don't obsess about body image", but look at the photoshopped covers of magazines for pictures of the 'perfect' body. Work hard to succeed in school, but then those who succeed aren't recognized as valedictorians anymore because that might "hurt someone's self-esteem". Buy the biggest home possible, and redecorate it regularly to demonstrate your success versus save  for retirement because there may not be a pension or social security to help.

One thing we can be assured of in this world, there will be change. Our world today is changing faster than at any time in the past. How do we decide what is truth and what isn't? After all, if we look to the internet or the library for answers, we can find 'research and wisdom' that verify both sides of almost any issue.

For me, the truth is found in John 16, verse 33. Jesus is speaking:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

 

Jesus has been confiding with his followers about the future -- that he will return to Heaven and they will be scattered. Trouble is coming, but he tells us in advance so we can be confident in Him and to accept His peace if we truly believe He wins in the end. And if you read the Bible through to the end, you will see that this is true!

 

So look at all the changes the world is bringing to us, evaluate them carefully, and have peace that God is in control!

Time for Work?

Have you ever had to punch a clock? No, not in the morning when the alarm goes off, but at work. There have been several jobs I've worked where I had to clock in and out. I was much more likely to be on time to these jobs since someone would know right away if I was even one minute late. And often people would line up by the clock several minutes before the shift change so they could be sure to clock out at the first moment possible.

Unfortunately, I saw a lot of abuse of the system, too. People would clock in early so they could look good to the boss, then they'd take their daily newspaper and go to the cafeteria for breakfast. Others would leave early but conveniently forget to clock out so no one could prove they weren't at their desk. Some people believed that as long as they were clocked in they deserved to get paid for their time . . . regardless of if they worked or not.

In one tragic incident at a very large company, an employee was involved in a serious motorcycle crash on his way home from work. They found eight of his co-workers badges in his coat. He and his friends had a great gig -- work one day, off nine. They would pass all the badges around and clock in/out for each other!

It's a good thing God doesn't ask us to clock in (well, in reality he doesn't have to, being all-knowing of course). Some days I don't really start 'his' work until several hours into my day. Other days I probably 'clock out' within minutes of clocking in. I might have good intentions, but something in life interrupts my focus and I forget all about the boss of the universe.

God doesn't really want us to have specific times of day when we work for him and other times when we don't. He's a jealous boss who wants all of our time -- weekends, too. That doesn't mean we ignore the world and spend 24 hours a day in Bible study and prayer. He wants us to be connected to him through relationship all day and to see that the things we do are all about him: providing for our families, talking with co-workers, encouraging others, loving/respecting our spouses, and teaching others about him. He does like our one-on-one meetings with him on a regular basis, too.

How is your day going? Have you clocked in yet? Have you clocked out already? One good thing about this boss -- he'll be happy that we clock back in whenever we realize we aren't tuned in to his work and he forgets those times when we clock out if we just as his forgiveness! And the pay for this job is out of this world.

Ephesians 6:4-7

Context:
Paul has been giving the Ephesians instructions for life -- talking about husbands, wives, and children.

Text:
5Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. 6Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. 7Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, 8because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free. (NIV)

Taken from www.biblegateway.com

Everyday Confetti

Everyday Confetti - Your Year-round Guide to Celebrating Holidays and Special Occasions
by
Karen Ehman and Glynnis Whitwer


MY THOUGHTS:
 I was a bit concerned that this book would just be another one of those 'Godly Hostess' books that would make me feel like I couldn't compete with those in the world who are gifted in such ways (you know the type -- Martha Stewart clones who actually DO the things they pin on Pinterest).

Boy, was I wrong! This is a FABULOUS book that works especially well for people like me. I want to be organized and celebrate things, but somehow time and energy runs out before it happens. Right from the first page, they talk about making the things you already do special -- family dinners. We all have to eat, right? And eating together as a family IS something we do almost every day. So how do we change things up just slightly so they are more special, more of a celebration? With simple hints about intentional conversation starters, recognition opportunities, and talks about how God impacts our lives, Glynnis and Karen made me realize that I CAN increase my 'celebration quotient'.

The book is designed to help you realize what your unique family needs and habits are and to utilize those moments to celebrate -- not extravagantly (unless that is your gift), but in meaningful and simple ways. Before it even gets to annual holidays, the authors discuss Everyday Joys, Celebrating Birthdays, Spiritual Milestones, Ways to Stay Connected, and Reaching Out to Others.

Tucked in with the creative ideas are a TON of fabulous sounding recipes -- something I didn't expect. These are simple things to make for nourishing meals or fun snacks that are designed to use the things a typical family has in the pantry -- no need to add a special shopping trip to an already busy schedule.

I highly recommend this book for anyone who is 'celebration challenged'. It would be a fabulous book for a shower gift along with a few things related to celebrations - candy sprinkles, notecards, a special holiday plate, and maybe a pan for creating some of the awesome recipes.

You can buy a copy of the book here.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

When a busy woman looks at her calendar and sees a birthday, holiday, or special occasion, she has the best intentions for bringing joy to her family and creating lasting memories. Then reality hits. Amidst demanding responsibilities and an overloaded schedule, when is she ever going to have time to plan the perfect celebration or find the creativity to make it special?

In this go-to guide, Karen Ehman and Glynnis Whitwer give women the ideas and the motivation they need to make such occasions less daunting. They provide creative ideas and menu plans for
· Holidays
· Birthdays
· Special Events
· Everyday Occasions
Readers will even find suggestions for reaching out to others throughout the year through celebrations that are simple, doable, and stress-free.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
 Karen Ehman and Glynnis Whitwer are fabulous members of the Proverbs 31 team. You can learn more about them here: http://www.karenehman.com/about-karen/ 
and here: http://glynniswhitwer.com/meet-glynnis/

Thank you to Revell Publications for providing a copy of this book for my review.

No One To Trust

No One To Trust

by

Lynette Eason

 

MY THOUGHTS:

This is a thrilling book from beginning to end! I read it on a plane and was seriously wishing the plane would circle the airport a few times so I could finish before we landed.

From the minute Summer Abernathy wakes to find a man with a gun at her head until the final word of the book, I was on the edge of my seat. The book includes twists, turns, sabotage, secret agendas, and enough running for a marathon. This is definitely a must read for 2014.

As you read, you will be confronted with some serious questions about trust and forgiveness. Why is it easier to forgive some people than others? And to forgive some acts more than others? Whom do you still need to forgive, and how do you do that?

Loved this book, and I'm grateful to Revell Books for providing a copy for my review. I've not had a chance to read any of Lynette's books in the past, and I've become a major fan!

 

 

ABOUT THE BOOK:

She doesn't know who she's running from--and the man she loves may be someone else entirely

Summer Abernathy wakes up one morning to find her husband missing, three men in her home intent on finding him, and the life she's been living based on a lie. Which Kyle Abernathy did she marry? The computer programmer she met in line at the bank? Or the one who was apparently using that image as a cover?

The search for her husband--and answers--takes Summer ever deeper into a world of organized crime where people are used one moment and discarded the next. And with her deepest relationship of trust already shattered, Summer doesn't know who to believe.

Always thrilling, bestselling author Lynette Eason outdoes herself in this taut, breakneck story of lies, loyalties, and love that will have you up all night to discover the truth hidden in the shadows.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

 
Lynette Eason grew up in Greenville, SC. Even as a young girl, she knew she wanted her life to reflect the love of Jesus Christ.

After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a Business Degree she used for a very short time (sorry Mom and Dad), she moved to Spartanburg, SC to attend Converse College where she obtained her Masters degree in Education. During this time, she met the man she would marry—the boy next door! She is married to Jack Eason, who speaks, leads worship, and consults ministries around the country. They have two children.

Lynette’s books have appeared on the ECPA and CBA bestseller lists and have won several awards.

Tempest's Course

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Tempest's Course Abingdon Press (December 17, 2013) by Lynette Sowell

MY THOUGHTS:
 I am really enjoying the Quilts of Love series by Abingdon Press, and this latest release is wonderful. Lynette Sowell's book, Tempest's Course, has a different twist on quilting -- instead of creating a quilt, the heroine of our story, Kelly Frost, is restoring one that  has been well used and somewhat abused, not unlike Kelly herself.

There are a lot of mysterious behind-the-scenes characters who add a level of complexity to the story that is sure to surprise the reader. I really enjoyed the historical perspectives of the whaling industry and those left behind. But most of all, this is a story about moving on from the past and creating a future where you let God take control.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in quilting, those interested in the 1800's and the Northeastern part of the country, and those who enjoy a sweet love story.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lynette Sowell is an award-winning novelist. Her most recent novel, Tempest’s Course, is part of the Quilts of Love line from Abingdon Press. When Lynette’s not writing, she divides her time between editing medical reports and chasing down news stories for the Copperas Cove Leader-Press. Lynette was born and raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland but makes her home in Coppress Cove, Texas, with her husband and a herd of cats who have them well-trained.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Kelly Frost, a textiles conservator, is invited to the Massachusetts coastal city of New Bedford to restore a 150-year-old Mariner's Compass quilt. But there is one stipulation: she must live and work in Gray House, a former whaling captain's home, where the quilt is stored. There she meets Army veteran Tom Pereira, the caretaker of Gray House, whose heart seems as hard as the rocky Massachusetts coastline. Over the long-lit months as Kelly works to restore the quilt, she and Tom grow closer. And as she reads stories in a daily journal penned by Mary Gray, she learns the secrets of the quilt and Mary's own sad tale of regret. Then Tom learns secrets of his own family's past, and both Tom and Kelly learn they are tied to Gray House in ways they never imagined.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Tempest's Course, go HERE.

Merry Humbug Christmas

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Merry Humbug Christmas B&H Books (October 15, 2013) by Sandra D. Bricker

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For more than a decade, Sandra D. Bricker lived in Los Angeles. While honing her chosen craft of screenwriting in every spare moment, she worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television's hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she walked away from that segment of her life and moved across the country to take on a new role: Caregiver.

The author says that it was her 8th novel that opened the door to finding her way as a writer. "I'm a Christian woman, first and foremost," she says. "So it was a bit of a dream-come-true when Summerside Press chose me as one of two authors to launch the Love Finds You line."

Sandie's real-life role as cancer survivor has parlayed into her steadfast commitment to raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research. Spearheading a series of devotionals for Summerside Press (such as the popular His Grace is Sufficient...Decaf is Not), the author has stipulated that a portion of each contributor's proceeds will go to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.


"Being allowed to combine my faith and my humor with raising funds for my pet projects ... and still pursue my writing dream," says Bricker, "well, that's the best of all worlds, as far as I'm concerned!"

And one of the author's pet projects is animal rescue, evidenced by the special bond she has created with one particular formerly-abandoned puppy -- a red-haired collie with "killer brown eyes and the heart of the class clown."

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Merry Humbug Christmas features two holiday romance novellas from hilarious and heartwarming author Sandra D. Bricker. -- the perfect gift to yourself or someone else at this most wonderfully stressful time of year.

In "Once Upon a Jingle Bell," A Bah! Humbug cruise to the Mexican Riviera is Joss Snow’s answer to this year’s quest to avoid the holidays completely; at least until she’s rebooked on a different kind of cruise altogether. Candy canes, holly wreaths, reindeer and ornaments seem to be stalking her on the 12 Days of Christmas holiday cruise extravaganza. An escape back to land is her only goal . . . until she meets a kindred spirit in rugged Irishman Patrick Brenneman, and then the game is on! Avoid Christmas festivities at all costs . . . except maybe for that one stop under the mistletoe.

In "It Came Upon a Midnight Deer," Reese’s guilt over abandoning best friend Joss on their holiday tradition of avoiding all things Christmas is trumped by the joy of her recent engagement. Meeting Damian’s family for the first time on idyllic Sugarloaf Mountain is about as far from that Bah! Humbug cruise as she can get, and Reese can hardly wait to get there. But from the moment they hit that deer in the road just two miles from the cabin, everything seems to go wrong. There are no drummers drumming or pipers piping this particular year! And once she sets her future in-laws’ family cabin ablaze, she’s pretty sure there won’t be even ONE golden ring in her future.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Merry Humbug Christmas, go HERE.

Aloha Rose

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Aloha Rose Abingdon Press (November 19, 2013) by Lisa Carter

MY THOUGHTS:
 I love to quilt and I love books about quilts! This is NOT a book about quilting, but a beautiful baby quilt plays a key role in the story.

Laney Carrigan knows nothing about her birth family except that she was left on a doorstep wrapped in a Hawaiian quilt by a friend of her adoptive mother. She has spent her life feeling abandoned and unwanted at the core, despite the love of her adoptive family. Now, at the  prompting of her birth father, she flies hours away to Hawaii to meet the family of her heritage.

In the process she meets Kai, an adult who was a foster child in her Hawaiian family. He suffers PTSD from his time in Afghanistan and from a terrible childhood trauma. 

The story evolves as these two, who feel like 'stray cats' in the world, learn about their pasts, seek to heal their wounds, and try to fit into an 'ohana' family.

This is part of the Quilts of Love series published by Abingdon Press. The series has been well written and includes fascinating 'back stories' of quilts. Aloha Rose includes fabulous scenic descriptions of the 'big island' of Hawaii and it almost feels like a vacation with a loving Hawaiian family. It is a great, fun read.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from the author:

I am a wife and mother. My husband and I have two daughters and make our home in the beautiful state of North Carolina.

I am a teacher. With a Master’s degree in history, I have taught at the university, high school and middle school levels. After years of church involvement as a soloist, choir member and worship leader, I also teach music.

I am a writer. Delighted by the rhythm and musicality of words, I have been writing since childhood. In 2001, I won the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Story Writing Contest that re-ignited a lifelong love of writing.

I am on a journey of faith. My ultimate desire through my life and my writing is to proclaim the truth of God’s Word, His redeeming love as seen in the life of Jesus Christ and to help others know for themselves this great, awesome God of all comfort and wisdom. He is enough for every need.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Laney Carrigan sets out to find her birth family, her only clue is the Hawaiian quilt—a red rose snowflake appliquéd on a white background—in which she was found wrapped as an infant. Centering her search on the Big Island and battling fears of rejection, Laney begins a painstaking journey toward her true heritage. Kai Barnes, however, is determined to protect the people he’s come to regard as family. He thinks Laney is nothing more than a gold digger and blocks every move she makes toward her Hawaiian family. As their conflict escalates, it puts at risk the one thing that Kai and Laney both want most—a family.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Aloha Rose, go HERE.

Thanks to Abingdon Press for providing a copy of the book for this review!

Singularity

Singularity
by
Steven James


MY THOUGHTS:
This book is the second in the Jevin Banks series. Jevin is an illusionist who does amazing stunts, and he is training others to do them, too. When one of his best students is murdered during a publicly aired event, Jevin is thrown into a search for the killer with terrifying results.

There is a lot of action and many fascinating characters (some are really pretty creepy) in this story, and it kept me on the edge of my seat. Steven James does a wonderful job of researching leading edge topics and takes current day research to a terrifying level of potential reality. I'm not overly fond of books written in first person, but I enjoy James' storytelling so much that it's worth it to work through this.

I hope there are more books in this series -- I'd especially like to see more of Fiona and her home-schooled family!


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Critically acclaimed author Steven James has written three dozen books, including the Patrick Bowers and Jevin Banks thriller series. He has also penned books spanning the genres of prayer collections, dramas, monologues, a nine-book series on creative storytelling, YA fantasy, and inspirational nonfiction. He has a master’s degree in storytelling and has taught writing and creative communication around the world. When he's not writing or speaking, you'll find him trail running, rock climbing, or drinking a dark roast coffee near his home in eastern Tennessee.




ABOUT THE BOOK:

Jevin Banks is searching for a killer--and answers to terrifying questions he never even thought to ask.

·        
When his friend is murdered, illusionist Jevin Banks is determined to find out what really happened. Drawn deep into a web of conspiracy and top-secret research on human consciousness, Jevin won't stop digging until the truth is revealed. Soon he uncovers a dark secret that could change the very fabric--and future--of human life on the planet.

Based on frightening scientific realities and bristling with mystery, suspense, and intrigue, Singularity is the riveting sequel to Placebo.


"Steven James knows how to tell a story that gets under your skin and challenges the way you think as only the most talented writers can. If you're looking for a mind-bending tale, strap in and take the ride with Singularity. I can't recommend it highly enough."--Ted Dekker, New York Times bestselling author


Praise for Placebo, the first book in the Jevin Banks Experience

"James's new series explodes onto the fiction stage. . . . The writing, pacing, and plot lines are impeccable."--Publishers Weekly

"An edgy, multilayered thriller that may have you fearful every time someone says, 'Oh, I've been thinking about you.'"--RT Book Reviews, 4½ stars

"A full-frontal assault that combines unique characters, a compelling theme, and an incredible story."--Life Is Story

"The kind of action, suspense, and surprises that Steven James fans have come to expect."--CBA Retailers+Resources

"The science is amazing, well-researched, and rather unsettling."--The Christian Manifesto

"A tantalizing blend of plausible current events and speculative sci-fi."--Crosswalk.com

For more information, please visit http://www.bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/singularity/319450

 

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

 

Success!

'nuf said -- thanks for the motivation power of going public with a goal!

Need To Be Held Accountable

I'm feeling less than motivated today and I think I'd be happy to sit in my chair and watch the rain...ALL day! This is one of my rare days with no appointments, so I have hours to use and I don't want to waste them. SO, I'm relying on you to help keep me moving. It seemed to work on the desk in my office, so let's see how it works on my sewing room (aka Quilt Studio and corner of my bedroom).

A few weeks ago I decided to organize this room and try a different strategy for managing my fabric. As I moved stuff off the top of my fabric shelf, I noticed the ceiling was black. Over the past month or so, Lois's toilet and shower have leaked, and apparently they leaked through to my studio below. After Doug removed the drywall, we realized we needed to call in help.

Now there is good news and bad news. All the decluttering/organizing shows tell you to remove everything from a room before you start. Ok, well I have to remove everything so the contractor can come on Monday to rip the ceiling out and see what needs to be done! My sewing machine and a few tools have been moved, along with the shelf of fabric, but this remains:






Where do I even start? And where do I put all this stuff? And how will I remain somewhat organized in the meantime so I can make the seven things I want to finish by Christmas?  This is where you come in. I've decided that today is the day, and I can reward myself with a quilting video as soon as I'm done.

Ready, set, GO!

Maybe I'll eat lunch first :o)  !

How Did This Happen?

So, I worked really hard to get my desk cleaned during the month of September. Then I had two separate speaking/teaching engagements, a visit by Hurricanes Sophie (my granddaughter) and Bandit (my granddog), several migraines, and lots of people putting mail on my desk 'so I could find it'. Well, this is the result:

And to be honest, it got MUCH worse than this!

So today I had to find the results of a recent car inspection, since our license must be renewed this month (figured it was about time...it's the 29th!). So I started going through the piles. There was the wonderful pile where piles are supposed to be -- in the pretty basket by my computer. Most items there are at least a month old. Then there was the pile on the other side of my computer, the pile at the far end of my desk, the pile in the middle of my desk...well, you get the picture.

Bottom line is that I found a bunch of expired coupons, a couple of late bills, a BUNCH of fabulous quilting magazines I have yet to read (and I'm really proud of myself for not stopping to read them), medicines that need to be renewed, and plenty of other things that need attention. But no car inspection.

Luckily the wonderful people at JC Care Care are happy to print a copy and it's on the way to the Dept of Revenue office. And now my desk is clean again! Well, at least the top and the drawers I've already cleaned.

I wonder if I'll ever make it out of my office in this cleaning/organizing fantasy of mine?

Back to neat at least! (if not quite as perfect as I want).

Unspoken

Unspoken
by
Dee Henderson


MY THOUGHTS:
We have waited so long for some new Dee Henderson books, and unfortunately this one was not worth the wait.

Dee's O'Malley series was the first set of Christian novels I ever read, and I hung on every word. The way her characters struggled with real life issues in the midst of fabulous suspense helped me learn how to turn to God in all situations.

However, her newest books seem to lack any tie to reality. I didn't review Full Disclosure because I was so disappointed with it -- I even had other Dee Henderson fans read it to see if I'd missed the mark. But with Unspoken, I see the continuation of a sad trend. The story seems to drag, and the characters live such unrealistic lives that they aren't even worthy of dreaming about. This could have been a great story if the surrounding situation (insane wealth) were even somewhat realistic. Maybe this is based on truth, but it's not a truth that anyone I know can even comprehend.

I got quickly bored with the coin talk, having no comprehension of what was valuable.

I definitely appreciated the struggle Charlotte has with God's willingness to forgive her captors. It's a struggle I hadn't considered for someone in her position, and it makes great sense. I love it when an author opens up a new way of comprehending the love God has for each of us, regardless of who we are or what we do.

So disappointed, but I'll continue to check out Dee's books because she's had such a major impact on my life.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Charlotte Graham is at the center of the most famous kidnapping in Chicago history.

The task force of FBI and local cops found her two abductors, killed them, rescued her, but it took four very long years. The fact she was found less than three miles from her home, had been there the entire time, haunts them. She's changed her identity, found a profession she loves, and rebuilt her life.

She's never said a word--to the cops, to her doctors, to family--about those four years.
A family legacy has brought her back to Chicago where a reporter is writing a book about the kidnapping. The cops who worked the case are cooperating with him. Her options are limited: Hope the reporter doesn't find the full truth, or break her silence about what happened. And her silence is what has protected her family for years.

Bryce Bishop doesn't know her past, he only knows she has coins to sell from her grandfather's estate--and that the FBI director for the Chicago office made the introduction. The more he gets to know Charlotte, the more interested he becomes, an interest encouraged by those closest to her. But nothing else is working in his favor--she's decided she is single for life, she struggles with her faith, and she's willing to forego a huge inheritance to keep her privacy. She's not giving him much of an opening to work with.

Charlotte wants to trust him. She needs to tell him what happened. Because a crime cops thought was solved, has only opened another chapter...

"Dee Henderson is a master of Christian fiction... You will be hooked by her storytelling and will be anxiously awaiting her next novel." -- Fresh Fiction

"Minute details...plot twists galore, and a supporting cast whose capacity to fight evil and win is just this side of over-the-top make this stand-alone novel a rip-roaring good read. Old fans and new readers alike will be delighted." --Publishers Weekly

Stranded

Stranded
by
Dani Pettrey


MY THOUGHTS:
I have really enjoyed Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series, and this latest volume ranks right up there with the best! This book had me on the edge of my seat from the prologue, and I couldn't put it down.

I love the McKenna family and have really enjoyed these stories. You don't have to read the first books to understand what is going on, but it would definitely help. There are so many characters involved who show up in each book that it might be a good idea to keep a log -- it's easy to forget some of the personality quirks of each!

Pettrey's descriptions of the landscape and activities that occur make you feel the cold! She has a wonderful way of setting you into the story and making you feel like you see the landscape instead of are being told about it. I can't wait for the next book.



ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Her Friend Goes Missing,
Every Minute Counts
Darcy St. James returns to Alaska to join a journalist friend undercover on the trail of a big story. But when Darcy arrives, she finds her friend has disappeared. Troubled by the cruise ship's vague explanation, Darcy uses her cover as a travel reporter to investigate further.

The last person Gage McKenna expects to see during his summer aboard a cruise ship leading adventure excursions is Darcy. And in typical Darcy fashion, she's digging up more trouble.

He'd love to just forget her--but something won't let him. And he can't help but worry about her as they are heading into more remote regions of Alaska and eventually into foreign waters. Something sinister is going on, and the deeper they push, the more Gage fears they've only discovered the tip of the iceberg.

"The third book in Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series ratchets up the action and suspense. It's difficult to stop yourself from peeking ahead to the end, but the ride is worth the anxiety." --RT Book Reviews
"Dani Pettrey has delivered another incredibly compelling adventure in Alaska. STRANDED is full of suspense, beautiful rugged wilderness and white-water rapids, and a heartfelt romance. I loved catching up with the McKenna family." - Dee Henderson, New York Times bestselling author

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
In real life, 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 one’s faith and plenty of romance. She’s a huge fan of dark chocolate, is always in search of the best iced mocha and her dream is to one day own a little cottage on a remote stretch of beach. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters.
Just in case you’re curious…The real Dani does love traveling. She’s been to some amazing places (Greece, Hawaii, the Keys) and there are many more she hopes to visit in the future.
And while she’s not quite up to sky-diving, cave diving or heli-skiing (too high, too enclosed, too cold!) she and her family love hiking, canoeing, wave jumping and a ton of other outdoor adventures a little further down on the risk scale.

Learn more about Dani and her books at http://www.danipettrey.com/

Dark Justice

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Dark Justice B&H Books (October 1, 2013) by Brandilyn Collins

MY THOUGHTS:Brandilyn Collins is known for her 'seatbelt suspense' -- that is, you better buckle your seatbelt before you open one of her books! And this book definitely lives up to expectations.

Hannah Shire decides to go home the 'long' way, and her life is never the same. She stops to help the victim of a car accident, who tells her a cryptic secret. Next thing she knows people are trying to kill her and she's being sought as a 'person of interest' in three murders!

Brandilyn's book are such winners because she starts with a situation that could happen to any one of us, then she masterfully winds a web of intrigue and suspense that is so plausible the reader can see herself in the midst of unprecedented trouble.

If you are a Brandilyn Collins fan, you will once again be thrilled with her latest book. If you've never read one of her books, pick this one up and you'll be hooked!


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Brandilyn Collins is a best-selling novelist known for her trademark Seatbelt Suspense®. These harrowing crime thrillers have earned her the tagline "Don't forget to b r e a t h e . . ."® Brandilyn's first book, A Question of Innocence, was a true crime published by Avon in 1995. Its promotion landed her on local and national TV and radio, including the Phil Donahue and Leeza talk shows. Brandilyn's awards for her novels include the ACFW Carol Award (three times), Inspirational Readers' Choice, and Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice.

Brandilyn is also known for her distinctive book on fiction-writing techniques, Getting Into Character: Seven Secrets a Novelist Can Learn From Actors (John Wiley & Sons). The Writer magazine named Getting into Character one of the best books on writing published in 2002.

When she's not writing, Brandilyn can be found teaching the craft of fiction at writers' conferences.

ABOUT THE BOOK

If I’d had any idea what those words would mean to me, to my mother and daughter, I’d have fled California without looking back.

While driving a rural road, Hannah Shire and her aging mother, who suffers from dementia, stop to help a man at the scene of a car accident. The man whispers mysterious words in Hannah’s ear. Soon people want to kill Hannah and her mother for what they “know.” Even law enforcement may be involved.

The two women must flee for their lives. But how does Hannah hide her confused mother? Carol just wants to listen to her pop music, wear her favorite purple hat, and go home. And if they turn to Hannah’s twentyseven- year-old daughter, Emily, for help, will she fall into danger as well?

Pressed on all sides, Hannah must keep all three generations of women in her family alive. Only then does she learn the threat is not just to her loved ones, but the entire country . . .

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Dark Justice, HERE.

Thanks to B&H Books for providing a book for this review.

A Talent For Trouble

A Talent for Trouble
by
Jen Turano


MY THOUGHTS:
Wow...just wow! Jen Turano has quickly become one of my top five favorite authors! This is her third book, and I love it just as much as I enjoyed the first two! I have dubbed her the "Hysterical Historical" writer. I know that her books will include realistic details about the time period, and hilarious antics from strong characters. Plus there is a dash of downright amazing romantic relationship building -- especially where the characters don't think they are 'made' for one another.

There are wonderful characters who were in the first two books that show up again, and it is like seeing old friends! The books could definitely stand alone, but they are so fabulous you will want to read all three -- A Change of Fortune, A Most Peculiar Circumstance, and this latest one.

One of my favorite 'characters' is Thor...but you'll just have to read the book to figure out who he is!

If you like intrigue, meddling mothers, well meaning but interfering friends, cross dressers, naughty children, and the occasional run in with the police, this book is for you!

ABOUT THE BOOK
For years, Miss Felicia Murdock’s every thought and action have been in pursuit of becoming a minister’s wife. When the minister she’d set her sights on has other ideas, she decides something in her life needs to change–and soon–before she wastes any more time pretending to be someone she’s not. If that means spreading her wings and embracing a more lively way of life, who’s to say nay?
Grayson Sumner, Lord Sefton, has had more than enough of spreading his wings and only hopes to settle into the life of a respectable New York gentleman. Prompted by some friends to lift the spirits of the disappointed-in-love Miss Murdock, he is surprised to encounter an adventurous young lady with an unfortunate knack for stumbling into troublesome situations.
Just as Grayson decides he’s had quite enough of her antics, his past comes back to haunt him and his presence in Felicia’s life endangers her. As they work together to extricate themselves from this latest complication, will Grayson and Felicia decide they want to spend the rest of their lives keeping one another out of trouble?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jen grew up in the small town of St. Clairsville, Ohio, where she spent an idyllic childhood riding her purple spider bike, ice-skating on a little pond and reading Nancy Drew and Trixie Beldon books in her tree house. High School was, surprisingly enough, fabulous as Jen spent time with her girlfriends. She headed off to college with no idea of what she wanted to be when she grew up, but settled on pursuing a career in fashion because she thought it sounded glamorous. Her parents thought she’d lost her mind, but they resigned themselves to her choice and after earning a BA degree in Clothing and Textiles, Jen set off to take the fashion world by storm, only to discover retail was certainly not the glamorous career she’d imagined it would be. She moved to Buffalo, New York to take a job in the buying office of a large department store, learning all there was to know about cookware, which again, was hardly glamorous, especially to a girl who did not have a knack for cooking. She met her future husband, Al, a few months after taking this job and eight months later, they were married. After moving into management at another department store and working that for a few years, the company went out of business and Jen decided she’d had enough. One year later her son was born and Jen hung up her heels for good and concentrated on being a mom.
She began dabbling in writing when her son, then in elementary school, said he liked her made up stories as much as those in his books. It was then that she  fired up the computer and never looked back.
Jen loves to write humorous stories with quirky characters and a dash of intrigue and finds historical romances especially appealing, seeing as how she’s been reading them since she was a teenager. Her mother gave her a copy of Kathleen Woodiwiss, The Flame and the Flower, and Jen was hooked on the genre. When not reading romance, she loves to read mysteries, young adult and her favorite series of all time, Harry Potter.
Besides writing, Jen enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Welcome to Last Chance

Welcome to Last Chance
by
Cathleen Armstrong


MY THOUGHTS:
Welcome to Last Chance is Cathleen Armstrong's first novel, and she has made a fabulous start to her writing career. This is an excellent contemporary romance.

Each character has wonderful depth and life. It is easy to imagine oneself living in or visiting this small town and dealing with the struggles the characters face. If this were a real town, I'd definitely find a way to visit!

Armstrong has written a masterful book that demonstrates how God's grace, as shown through his people, can overcome all the struggles we face.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
The red warning light on her car dashboard may have driven Lainie Davis to seek help in the tiny town of Last hance, New Mexico, but as she meets the people who make this one-horse town their home, it's her heart that is flashing bright red warning lights. These people are entirely too nice, too accommodatig, and too interested in her personal life -- especially since she's on the run and hoping to slip away unnoticed.

Yet in spite of herself, Lainie is increasingly drawn into the small-town dramas and to a handsome local guy with a secret of his own. Could Lainie actually make a life in this little town? Or will the past catch up to her even here in the middle of nowhere?




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Cathleen Armstrong lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, but her roots remain deep in New Mexico, where she grew up and where much of her family still lives. Her debut novel, Welcome to Last Chance, has already won the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Award for Women's Fiction.














Thank you to Revell Publishing for providing a copy of this book for review. The gift in no way influenced my opinion of this book.

A Christmas Gift for Rose

A Christmas Gift for Rose
by
Tricia Goyer

MY THOUGHTS:
Tricia Goyer has wrapped up another wonderful historic Amish fiction book in A Christmas Gift for Rose. This is a short novel based on a true story of a young Amish woman who discovers she was adopted from and Englisch family. This information, on top of the reality of her betrothed joining the Army as a WWII medic, puts a new level of stress on Rose in what is supposed to be a peaceful world.

Should she marry a man who went against all that she believes in to join the Army (even though he didn't fight)? What will the Bishop and others think of her when they realize she isn't really Amish? And who is she really -- Amish, Englisch, or something in between?

Goyer does a fabulous job of portraying the agony such issues can bring to a person who thinks she knows who she is and what she wants from life. This book would make a great stocking gift for your favorite reader, and I highly recommend reading it yourself to help you get into the true spirit of Christmas!

You can buy a copy of the book here.

This book inspired me to start a pinterest board! Check it out here.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Rose turned her back on the man she loves after he assisted the Englisch during World War II -- only to discover she's an Englischer herself. Inspired by a true story, A Christmas Gift for Rose is a heartwarming story of sacrifice, deep love, and discovering one's true identity.













ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
ricia Goyer has written more than thirty-five books, including both novels that delight and entertain readers and non- fiction titles that offer encouragement and hope. She has also published more than 500 articles in national publications such as Guideposts, Thriving Family, Proverbs 31, and HomeLife Magazine.
Goyer’s fiction and non-fiction books have won awards from the American Christian Fiction Writers and Mt. Hermon Writers’ Conference. She is also a two-time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee.
Tricia has authored several books on family and parenting, as well as co-written with Max Lucado and Robin Jones Gunn. She collaborated with Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges for Lead Your Family Like Jesus, published by Focus on the Family/Tyndale.
Tricia’s contemporary and historical novels feature strong women overcoming great challenges. She recreates historic wartime eras with precise detail through perseverant and comprehensive research. Tricia speaks to groups interested in these eras, with the intention of preserving and honoring the memory of the men and women who served.
She is a beloved author of Amish fiction, as well, writing the Big Sky and Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Series. Tricia is currently working on The One Year Book of Amish Peace: Hearing God’s Voice in the Simple Things and a true Amish story co-written with Ora Jay and Irene Eash (contracted to release in 2013 and 2014 respectively).
Tricia is also the visionary force behind the new website, Not Quite Amish. Inspired by the writing process of her Amish releases, she wanted to create a community where Amish and simple living experts can become contributors. Launched in the fall of 2012, the Not Quite Amish lifestyle blog features daily posts about recipes, repurposing, simple style, beautifying your home, sewing Amish proverbs, and more. In addition to having more than fifteen regular contributors, readers are also encouraged to submit ideas, questions, and posts for topics they’d like to see written about.
In addition to Not Quite Amish, Tricia also posts regularly at her personal blog and is a contributor to other family and homeschooling blogs, such as The Home Educating Family, The Better Mom, Allume and MomLife Today. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com.
Throughout the past ten years, Tricia has been interviewed by numerous national TV and radio programs and magazines.

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity and Zondervan Books for providing a copy of this book for review.  This gift in no way influenced my opinion of the book.

Fired Up

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Fired Up (Bethany House March 1, by Mary Connealy

MY THOUGHTS:
 This is a fun romp in the west with all the romantic tension Mary Connealy is famous for. This book is the second in a series, but there is plenty of background to give you all the information you need to understand the plot. This one is full of humor, loyalty, intrigue, action, and sparks of all kinds to keep you guessing until the end.



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

Rollicking Wild West Adventure and Romance from Bestselling Author Mary Connealy

Dare Riker is a doctor who saves lives, but someone seems determined to end his. It may have something to do with the traitors he dealt with during the Civil War, or it might be related to the recent incident with Flint Greer and the ranch. Whoever the culprit is, he or she seems really fired up, and Dare can't let his guard down for a moment, which is a challenge, since right now he's trying to win the heart of the recently widowed Glynna.

Glynna Greer came west as a mail-order bride and ended up in a bad situation. Now her husband, Flint, is dead, and she's determined to care for her son and daughter on her own. She wants to believe Dare Riker is as decent as he seems, but she's terrified to lock herself into another marriage. She plans to support her small family by opening a diner--never mind that cooking is not her greatest talent. The men in Broken Wheel, Texas, are so desperate for home cooking that they seem willing to overlook dried-out beef and blackened biscuits.

Glynna can't help but notice that danger follows Dare wherever he goes. There's the avalanche. And then the fire. But things really get out of hand when someone plunges a knife from Glynna's diner into Dare's back. Are Flint's cronies still plotting revenge? Is Glynna's son engaged in a misguided attempt to protect his mother? Is a shadowy outsider still enraged over past injustices? And can Dare survive long enough to convince Glynna to take another chance on love?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Fired Up, go HERE.

TRAPPED

Trapped
by
Irene Hannon

MY THOUGHTS:
I have enjoyed every Irene Hannon book I've read, and this one is no exception. This is book two in the Guardians of Justice series, however you definitely don't need to read book one to know what is going on. Irene does a great job of bringing you up to date on the lives of characters from the other book (thank you!!!!), and she keeps the story line of the new book 'clean' so it doesn't rely on the prior story.

This book is particularly intriguing because it deals with the serious issue of teen runaways and shows just how easy it is for someone to be caught up in the dangers of this world. Each character is well developed and I got caught up in their lives.

I love that she sets this series in the St. Louis area, too! If you like suspense, intrigue, and a touch of romance, then I highly recommend this book!


ABOUT THE BOOK:

When librarian Laura Griffith's sixteen-year-old sister disappears on a frigid February day, leaving only a brief note behind, Laura resolves to do whatever it takes to track down the runaway teen. That includes recruiting ATF agent turned PI James "Dev" Devlin to help. But the deeper he digs, the more he begins to suspect that something sinister is at work in the girl's disappearance. And the closer he gets to uncovering the truth, the clearer it becomes that the situation isn't just dangerous--it's deadly.

Chilling and at times terrifying, Trapped is the latest thrilling read from Irene Hannon, the queen of romantic suspense. Hannon outdoes herself with this fast-paced tale of fear, deception, and just the right dose of romance.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Irene Hannon is a bestselling, award-winning author who took the publishing world by storm at the tender age of 10 with a sparkling piece of fiction that received national attention.

Okay…maybe that’s a slight exaggeration. But she was one of the honorees in a complete-the-story contest conducted by a national children’s magazine. And she likes to think of that as her “official” fiction-writing debut!

Since then, she has written more than 40 romance and romantic suspense novels. Her books have been honored with two RITA awards—the “Oscar” of romantic fiction—and she is a six-time finalist for that prestigious honor. Her books have also won a Daphne du Maurier award, a Carol award, a HOLT Medallion, a National Readers’ Choice Award, a Retailers Choice Award and two Reviewers’ Choice awards from RT Book Reviews magazine. One of her novels was also named by Booklist as one of the top 10 inspirational fiction books of 2011.

Irene, who holds a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in journalism, juggled two careers for many years until she gave up her executive corporate communications position with a Fortune 500 company to write full-time. She is happy to say she has no regrets!

In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, gardening and singing.  A trained vocalist, she has sung the leading role in numerous musicals, including “South Pacific,” “Brigadoon,” “Oklahoma” “The King and I” and “Anything Goes.” She is also a soloist at her church.

When not otherwise occupied, Irene and her husband enjoy traveling, Saturday mornings at their favorite coffee shop and spending time with family. They make their home in Missouri.

Thank you to Baker Publishing Group for providing a copy of this book for review.

Threads of Change

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Threads of Change River North; New Edition edition (July 1, 2013) by Jodi Barrows
MY THOUGHTS:
I've taken a quilting class from Jodi in the past and I was excited to see that she is branching out to write about the deep relationships that quilters form.

This book has an interesting story line with some predictable twists. I was disappointed with the flow of the writing -- it was difficult for me to get beyond the words and lose myself in the story.

If you are interested in historical romances set during the Civil War, you may find this an interesting read.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Over the past twenty years, Jodi has remarkably touched thousands of quilters throughout the world with her unique method called Square in a Square®. Her point of view provides the quilter with the freedom to create most any quilt design with speed and accuracy.

Jodi has spoken to quilting audiences throughout the United States, Canada, Australia, Italy and S. Africa. She has appeared as a guest on several quilting shows, including TNN’s Aleene’s Creative Living, TNN’s Your Home Studio, Perfecting Patchwork on Family Net TV and a pbs series with Kaye Wood.

Jodi was raised in southwest Kansas, has two grown sons, and is married to Steve, her high school sweetheart.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Conflict develops in the South,

Four granddaughters travel into uncertainty,

And Grandfather sells their precious home.

In the first book of A Quilting Story series, the four cousins-with social graces, charm, and a love for quilting-will face the anguish of life on the frontier in 1856 with every turn along the wagon trail. Raging storms and adversities hit the small band of travelers. Relieved to finally arrive at the abandoned military post at Fort Worth, Texas, they begin the hard work of establishing a new home. When trials follow them, they must decide to become true warriors of their hearts, minds, and souls or fall to the sufferings of prairie life.

Join the four women on a passage of friendship, love, and self-discovery as lives are mended around the quilting frame.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Threads of Change, go HERE.