The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart Love Inspired (June 3, 2014) by Allie Pleiter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and nonfiction. An avid knitter, harp player and non-reformed chocoholic, she spends her days writing books, doing laundry, running carpools and finding new ways to avoid housework. Allie grew up in Connecticut, holds a BS in speech from Northwestern University and currently lives in suburban Chicago, Illinois. The "dare from a friend" to begin writing eight years ago has blossomed into a career that includes numerous public speaking engagements, two books on parenting; Becoming a Chief Home Officer and Facing Every Mom's Fears and now novels for Steeple Hill Books. She is the mother of two children and, most recently, a Havanese dog named Bella.


ABOUT THE BOOK

When Katrine Brinkerhoff's cabin is attacked, only sheriff Clint Thornton's heroism saves her. She owes Clint her life—and her help catching the men responsible. All she has to do is trust in Clint's plan to protect her family. But she can't let herself care too deeply, not when her past carries secrets that would drive him away.

Infiltrating the murderous gang is a dirty job, yet Clint is determined to see it through. The brigands will face justice—and they will never harm Katrine again. Clint would give his life to keep the beautiful settler safe…but will he be willing to risk his heart?

Bridegroom Brothers: True love awaits three siblings in the Oklahoma Land Rush

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart, go HERE.

One More Last Chance

One More Last Chance
by
Cathleen Armstrong

MY THOUGHTS:
This is the second book in Armstrong's A Place to Call Home series, and it is every bit as good as the first! If you haven't read Welcome to Last Chance, you wouldn't know this is a second in the series. I was thrilled to see Lainie and some of my other friends from the first book make appearances, but the were reintroduced appropriately.

Armstrong must have an innate sense about people, because she is able to instill honest angst and happiness into multiple characters in a way that feels totally natural. I really enjoy how each character has depth and believability, not stereotypical behavior. I'm definitely looking forward to the third book.

I recommend this book as a great read for a front porch swing and some lemonade or a day on the beach!

ABOUT THE BOOK (from the back cover):
Some things never change. . . and some things change you forever.
Sarah Cooley has come home to Last Chance, New Mexico, for one reason -- because it doesn't change. After a relationship gone bad with a man who wanted to change everything about her, Sarah is more than ready for the town whose motto may as well be, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

Chris Reed, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to spark some change in the little town. As the new owner of the Dip 'n' Dine, he's shaking things up to draw folks from all over the Southwest into his restaurant.

As it turns out, the winds of change are blowing into Last Chance --just not in the ways that Sarah or Chris might expect.

With the same evocative writing and charming characters that won fans for her debut novel, Cathleen Armstrong invites you back to Last Chance for a heartwarming, romantic story of two people navigating the twists and turns of life in a small town.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Cathleen Armstrong is the award-winning author of Welcome to Last Chance. Though she lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, her roots remain deep in New Mexico where she grew up and where much of her family still lives. Learn more at http://www.cathleenarmstrong.com

Gathering Shadows

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Gathering Shadows Bethany House Publishers (May 6, 2014) by Nancy Mehl

MY THOUGHTS:
I found this book incredibly interesting. The story line is fascinating, especially with the recent discovery of those who were kidnapped years ago still being held captive. Definitely a good mystery to be solved.

I had a bit of difficulty with the romance thread of the story, though. It felt like the author needed to force a romantic link into the very short time frame of the story. I never felt a real 'spark' between the characters.

That said, I like the concept of the series -- people living in a town where they can be basically free from their past. I'm looking forward to the next book.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Mehl lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband Norman and their dog, Watson. She’s authored thirteen books and is currently at work on her newest series for Bethany House Publishing.

All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “It’s a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”

She and her husband attend Believer’s Tabernacle in Wichita.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Wynter Evans is a promising young reporter for a television station in St. Louis, but even a bright future doesn't take away her pain over the disappearance of her brother nine years ago. So when she stumbles across a photograph of a boy with an eerie resemblance to him, she can't pass up the chance to track him down. With research for work as her cover, she sets out with one of the station's photogs for the place where the picture was taken: the town of Sanctuary. Almost as soon as she arrives, she meets the town's handsome young mayor, Rueben King, and together they begin to uncover long held secrets that could tear the small town apart and change everything Wynter thought she knew about her life. As the truth of her family's past hides in the shadows, it's clear someone will stop at nothing to keep the answers she's searching for hidden forever--even if the cost is Wynter's very life. If you'd like to read the first chapter of Gathering Shadows, go HERE.

Fatal Exchange

Fatal Exchange
by
Lisa Harris

MY THOUGHTS:
Oh, my, hold on to your seat! This is one action-packed story with no time for distraction. The whole book takes place in just a couple of days, and it is amazing all that can go wrong in that time. I really don't want to tell much of the story because there are so many twists, turns, and surprises that I'm afraid I'd ruin parts.

Just know that this is an amazing book, complex and deceiving, that will keep you turning pages long into the night. It is the second in a series, and while I have not read the first of the series I had no trouble understanding what was going on. I am anxious to go back and read the first book, Dangerous Passage. And, based on the last couple of paragraphs of this book, I can't wait for the third one to be released!

I've added Lisa Harris to my list of favorite authors. Hope you like her books, too.

ABOUT THE BOOK (from the back cover):
Desperate times create desperate people. And desperate people are dangerous....
Though Emily hunt comes from a family of cops, the relatively quite life of a high school teacher suits her just fine She's saving up to buy a house, slowly moving forward after her brother's death, and settlinginto a life she loves. So the last person she wants to spend time with is Mason Taylor.
An undercover cop, Mason is enemy number one as far as her family is concerned. His involvement int he death of Emily's brother is still up in the air, and now he expects her to help him with a case. Mason has been working with one of her students, Rafael Cerda, whose brother has been kidnap-ed by a drug cartel And with time running out to meet their demands, Rafael is getting desperate.
Emily will have to draw on all of her strength to handle what happens next....

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Harris is a Christy Award finalist and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 from Romantic Times. The author of more than 20 books, including Dangerous Passage, Harris has spent over ten years living with her family as missionaries in Africa. Learn more at www.lisaharriswrites.com

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

One Perfect Spring

One Perfect Spring
by
Irene Hannon

MY THOUGHTS:

I have loved all the suspense/mysteries I've read by Irene Hannon. Perfect Spring is a different type of adventure, and I enjoyed it just as much!

Some characters are easy to love right from the beginning, and others are a bit bristly. But that is a major component of the book. It caused me to stop and think about those folks who are a bit 'unloveable' and to realize there is always something behind the facade. In fact, there is a back story in everyone's life. It is not up to us to conjecture or judge, but to love each person as he or she is, and to know that God is in control. I really appreciated that Hannon has each character evolve in a natural way.

I have always loved stories that allow me to change the perceptions I've formed about a character -- the musical 'Wicked' is a case in point. While this is definitely not a fantasy story, it offers the same opportunity to see behind the scenes and realize people are not all they seem.

ABOUT THE BOOK (from the back cover):
Independent single mom Claire Summers is doing her best to make lemonade out of the lemons life has handed her. Workaholic Keith Watson is interested only in the bottom line -- until a letter from Claire's eleven-year-old daughter reaches his desk and changes everything.
As the executive assistant to a philanthropic businessman, Keith is used to fielding requests for donations. But the girl isn't asking for money. She wants help finding the long-lost son of a neighbor. As Keith reluctantly digs into this assignment in his usual results-oriented style, he has no idea how involved he and Claire will become -- nor how unusual the results will actually be. Who could have guessed that a child's kindhearted request would bring love and hope to so many lives ...including his own?
Through compelling characters and suprising plot twists, fan favorite Irene Hannon offers this tenderhearted story that demonstrates how life is like lilacs -- the biggest blooms come only after the harshest winters.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of over forty-five books, including That Certain Summer. Her romance and suspense fiction has won many awards, including two coveted RITAs, a Carol, two HOLT Medallions, a National Readers' Choice, a Daphne du Maurier, a Retailers Choice, and two Reviewers' Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine. In addition, she is a Christy Award finalist, and Booklist included one of her novels in its "Top 10 Inspirational Fiction" list for 2011. She lives in Missouri. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.

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

Where is God?

Today I read Psalm 13:
13 How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? 2How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?
3 Consider and answer me, O LORD my God; light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death, 4 lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,” lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.
5 But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. 6I will sing to the LORD, because he has dealt bountifully with me.

Crossway Bibles (2011-02-09). The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (with Cross-References) (Kindle Locations 94080-94109). Good News Publishers. Kindle Edition. 

Scary thought -- what if God ignores me as often and as long as I have ignored Him? Praise God He is merciful and loving regardless of how shallow or selfish I am. God, help me seek you with as much diligence and love as you seek me.

Sometimes I acknowledge God in the beauty I see around me -- a field full of dandelions and wild purple 'weeds' can be amazingly beautiful, sunlight sparkling an ice-covered tree, the bright eyes of a newborn, the wrinkled smile of one of his saints. And often I wonder what he was thinking when I look at the tragedies of this world -- deadly tornadoes that wipe away homes and families in an instant, devastating disease and hunger,  and the evil things around us every day.

He wants me to turn to him during those times, but he also wants me to realize that he is here, every day and in every situation. In my waking and my sleeping, my eating and my breathing, my ability to see, hear, feel, and pray. I want to be aware and thankful all the time -- Paul tells us to pray constantly to be in touch with God in every action. I want that type of relationship. God, help me want that type of relationship more!

Manual to Manhood

Manual to Manhood
by
Jonathan Catherman

MY THOUGHTS:
I gave this book to my twin 14 year-old boys and asked them to read through several sections. I don't know exactly which sections they read, but both of them spent a decent amount of time with the book (that means an hour for one of them and a couple of hours for the other). Now, telling their mom what they thought of the book seemed like a dance for them. They didn't want to act like they had learned anything (because of course, 14 year-olds know everything), so both of them said it was kind of common sense. Well, maybe the chapter on wearing deodorant and brushing your teeth were, but I think that there were a lot of chapters on topics they hadn't even considered, like grilling a steak, changing a tire, and finding a stud in the wall!

I also had my 24 year-old daughter read through it, and I read several chapters. We both thought that it had great topics and that it was a good manual to have around so that you could learn things at just the right time. We did think that several chapters were very shallow -- especially in the section on impressing girls. It includes topics such as talking to a girl for the first time, planning dates, and meeting the girls' parents. I thought it was lacking in the areas of how to treat a girl with respect (for example, it never even mentions opening doors for her), ideas of what to do on a first date (such as determining what she is interested in), or double dating etiquette. As a mom, I was also a bit disappointed in the the social skills and manners section. It talks about how to make a bed, but doesn't deal with manners items such as eating appropriately, phone and text etiquette, or tips on maintaining a conversation. I would have appreciated a section on how to find out more details about things -- who to talk to or what books to read.

This is a good intro manual for preteen and young teen boys, but I would recommend a detailed follow up for those beyond 13 or 14 with much more information about character-building, leadership traits, common courtesy, and relationship skills.


ABOUT THE BOOK (From the back cover):
How to gain respect, avoid embarrassment, and impress everyone!
As a man in the making, you'll need to know how to do stuff. You also need a strong moral character to back up your new abilities. But who do you ask? If you want to have it all together The Manual to Manhood is your go-to resource. With great illustrations and step-by-step instructions for almost everything a guy needs to know, this book shows you how to:
- wear cologne correctly                 - change a tire
- tie a tie                                          - talk to a girl
- grill a steak                                   - fold a shirt
- manage a credit card                    - clear a sink drain
- plan a date                                    - behave during a traffic stop
- interview for a job                        - throw a football
- ask for a reference                        - find a stud in the wall
- clean a bathroom                          - and tons more

The world needs confident and capable young men. With The Manual to Manhood, you'll be well on your way to becoming one of the best.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jonathan Catherman is a leading education consultant and trainer specializing in the character and leadership development of youth. He speaks worldwide about the principles and strengths that empower greatness in children, teens, and young adults. As both a parent and a professional, Jonathan is committed to assisting young men in the making to experience success and significance as they mature into manhood and lifelong leadership. Jonathan, his bride, and their boys live in North Carolina. Learn more at www.jonathancatherman.com.



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

A Promise in Pieces

MY THOUGHTS:
A Promise in Pieces is one of the Quilts of Love stories. This is a lovely story of a WWII nurse who spends her life trying to find meaning, and the quilt that helps others heal.

The story is written in memoir format, and it's a sweet story. There is no mystery, intrigue, or suspense involved, and it is an easy read with a satifying ending. A perfect book to take one away from the stresses of life!

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Promise in Pieces Abingdon Press (April 15, 2014) by Emily T. Wierenga
MY THOUGHTS:
A Promise in Pieces is one of the Quilts of Love stories. This is a lovely story of a WWII nurse who spends her life trying to find meaning, and the quilt that helps others heal.

The story is written in memoir format, and it's a sweet story. There is no mystery, intrigue, or suspense involved, and it is an easy read with a satifying ending. A perfect book to take one away from the stresses of life!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the Author:

I’m Emily, and I’m honored and humbled to meet you, friend. We’re all stumbling along on this journey and you can approach me about anything okay? I’m an open book, with dog-eared pages and a worn cover.

I’m mama to two boys, ages two and four, and married to a farm-boy-turned-math-teacher. We live in a small Dutch hamlet with three churches, one Co-Op and no stop lights. There are a lot of fields out here, there’s a lot of space and sky for breathing and running and writing.

We foster two boys in addition to our own two, and before I had kids, I took care of my Mum who had brain cancer. She fought back and has recovered, all glory to God, and my pastor-father still holds her hand while they go for daily walks.

I battled anorexia nervosa as a child, and then again as a newly married woman, and I write a lot about body image now and have a passion for women to learn to love themselves.

My husband and I have battled infertility and are currently trying to adopt our third child through the local Alberta government.

I hurt for the church, and believe in it, and pray for it, as I’ve grown up inside its walls and have heard its groanings.

I have a heart for Africa, particularly Uganda, and went there in January on a bloggers’ trip with World Help.

My favorite things to do are read literary novels, play guitar, snowboard, paint with oil and acrylics and hug my babies.

I am the author of two books on eating disorders, a novel releasing this spring, and a memoir coming out this summer.

I hope you’ll connect with me on FB: https://www.facebook.com/emilytwierenga, or if you prefer, Twitter: @emily_wierenga. I’d love to have a virtual glass of wine, or cup of coffee, with you.

Peace to you friends,

e.

ABOUT THE BOOK

After the end of World War II, Clara Kirkpatrick returns from the Women’s Army Corp to deliver a dying soldier’s last wishes: convey his love to his young widow, Mattie, with apologies for the missed life they had planned to share.

Struggling with her own post-war trauma, Clara thinks she’s not prepared to handle the grief of this broken family. Yet upon meeting Mattie, and receiving a baby quilt that will never cuddle the soldier’s baby, Clara vows to honor the sacrifices that family made.

Now a labor and delivery nurse in her rural hometown, Clara wraps each new babe in the gifted quilt and later stitches the child’s name into the cloth. As each new child is welcomed by the quilt, Clara begins to wonder whatever happened to Mattie—and if her own life would ever experience the love of a newborn. Little does she know that she will have the opportunity to re-gift the special quilt—years later and carrying even greater significance than when it was first bestowed.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Promise in Pieces, go HERE.

Lip Reading

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Lip Reading David C. Cook (March 1, 2014) by Harry Kraus

MY THOUGHTS:
Harry Kraus is the master of medical mysteries/adventure! This new book, Lip Reading, is a combination of medical expertise, intrigue, and suspense. He has set this one inside the pharmaceutical industry and has covered both the excitement of life saving research and the downside of drug trials and unexpected results.

I received this book in the mail in the afternoon, picked it up after supper, and absolutely didn't put it down until I finished it 3 1/2 hours later! I wonder if that is frustrating to an author for readers to devour a book so quickly after it took months to write and edit? But I know it's all that effort that makes the book so intriguing.

I will always rush to get one of Harry's new books!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from Harry:

I started writing my first novel during my last year of surgery training at UK. I was a chief resident, and started writing Stainless Steal Hearts in a call room at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Lexington. It was a crazy time to write! I had a very demanding schedule, often spending days and nights in the hospital. I had two sons at that time, and I recognized the wisdom in my wife's urging: "Now doesn't seem the right time for this dream."

My experience as a writer is far from typical. Having received my formal training in biology and chemistry and medicine, my only preparation for a writing career was a love for reading. The longest thing I'd written before my first novel was a term paper in undergraduate school. My first novel was accepted by Crossway Books and published in 1994, and it wasn't until after I had FOUR published novels that I even opened a book of instruction about the craft of writing fiction. This is not what I recommend to others! Yes, I was successful, but I was bending the "rules" without knowing it. I had a natural talent for plotting, but I realize my initial success may have stunted my growth as a writer. I'd have made faster progress if I'd have gone to the fiction teachers sooner.

I have three sons: Joel, Evan, and Samuel. Look closely in all of my books and you'll see them there. My lovely wife, Kris, provides the basic composition for all those beautiful, athletic, dedicated women in my novels.

ABOUT THE BOOK

She Could Save Millions, or Save Herself

She just needs a little longer. She’s really close. Dr. Rebecca Jackson, a medical researcher, stands on the verge of a breakthrough that will transform medicine. But she soon discovers the reason behind the miraculous progress in her research, and it leaves her with a nearly impossible choice . . . and little time to decide. More than her research is at stake. And more threatens it than this latest revelation. Something she’s tried hard to cover up. There is a high cost to some things in medicine and it’s not always the patient who pays. Can Rebecca find the faith and wisdom she needs to make the right call? The clock is ticking and the pressure is on.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Lip Reading, go HERE.

What Follows After

What Follows After
by
Dan Walsh




MY THOUGHTS:
Dan Walsh is a magnificent storyteller. This latest book, What Follows After, is a poignant story of one family's life in Florida during the week of the Bay of Pigs crisis in 1962. Although that incident serves as the backdrop to the story, it isn't the main point of the plot. And I don't want to give that away!

Many of us looking back see the early 1960's as an idyllic time in history. Most families were married with 2.5 kids, living in suburbia. The economy was relatively stable, we weren't at war, and we like to think everyone lived like Leave It To Beaver. It simply is not true.

This story emanates from the pain of lies and the search for whatever 'normal' life should be. It is gut wrenching at times, and both tragic and heartwarming at others.

I had to know what happened at the end of this story, and the book kept me entranced all the way through the Author's Note! I'd highly recommend it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of several books, including The Unfinished Gift, The Discover, and The Reunion, as well as The Dance and The Promise with Gary Smalley. He has won three Carol awards and three of his novels were finalists for RT Book Reviews Inspirational Book of the Year (20101 - 2013), Dan lives with his wife in the Daytona Beach area, where he's busy researching and writing his next novel. Visit www.danwalshbooks.com for more.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
IN 1962, life was simple, the world make sense, and all families were happy. And when they weren't, everyone knew you were supposed to pretend. 

For the past year, Scott and Gina Harrison have been living a lie. While they show up at family get-togethers in the same car, they've actually been separated for over a year. To keep up the charade, they've even instructed their sons, Colt and Timmy, to lie --to their grandparents, their teachers, and their friends.

Colt, for one, has had enough, so he hatches a plan. He and his little brother will run away from their Florida home, head for their aunt's house in Georgia, and refuse to come home until their parents get back together. But when things go terribly, terribly wrong, Scot and Gina must come to grips with years of neglect and mistrust in order to recover their beloved sons, their love for one another, and their marriage.

IN this emotional story, bestselling author Dan Walsh takes you on a journey to rediscover the things that matter most in life --love, truth, an family. With profound insight into the heart of a hurting child, he reminds us stat a time will come to look back on hard times and smile, because we'll know that what follows after . . . is not what we expected at all.

Learning to be Frugal

I've been thinking a lot lately about frugal living. Over the past few months I've read several interesting blogs about being self sufficient, eating healthy and inexpensive food, and making significant changes in life style in order to help others more.

As a result of this thinking and my continuing struggle to reduce clutter, I took on a challenge to reduce 30 things each day for Lent -- either giving away or throwing away 'stuff' we really didn't use or need. That has actually been going well, and hasn't been difficult at all. I probably ought to keep reducing until it becomes painful!

During this time I read this blog http://notquiteamishliving.com/2014/03/simple-lessons-from-mennonite-upbringing-shirley-hershey-showalter/ that talked about a popular book among the Mennonite community called Living More With Less by Doris Janzan Longacre. She has a very interesting explanation of frugality -- not necessarily living in a frugal manner because you have to, but because it's the right thing to do.

Not only can we cut our costs and donate the money to good causes, but she seems to indicate that it is almost sinful of us to live extravagantly, even if we can afford it, because there are so many around us who are unable to do so. She goes on to talk about the unseen costs of our extravagance -- the impact around the world because we use so many of the worlds resources and we, as a society, often support horrible labor policies in other countries. We take so many things for granted, and we ought to focus on what we need to live.

So, with all of these thoughts in my mind, I drove past a commuter parking lot in St. Charles. I drive past it probably 3 - 4 times per month, and frequently there is a man who lives there out of his car. He's been there for at least 3 years on and off. I've actually tried to deliver food and drinks to him once or twice, but those times he wasn't there.

I started thinking about how he lived and initially felt a bit sorry for him. But then I turned my thinking around a bit. What if someone CHOSE to live out of their car (not saying that he does). How much would one spend to live? What would I take with me if I all of a sudden had to start living out of my car? Does he use all the stuff he has with him, or does he, too, have more clutter than he needs? How much would one have to work to eat?

Now I know I would not like that lifestyle -- hot in the summer, cold in the winter, no regular place to shower or comfortable bed to sleep in. But how many people in the world live that way every day?

What could I learn from him, and others, about frugal living and what we REALLY need to live?

Maybelle In Stitches

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Maybelle In Stitches Abingdon Press (March 18, 2014) by Joyce Magnin

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from the Author:

I am the author of seven novels. Five adult novels and two middle grade readers. I never wanted to do anything else but write and every day I wake up astonished that I get to do what I always dreamed about. My days are filled with words and images along with the usual family stuff. I have three children, Rebekah who is married to Joshua. They have three of the most adorable boys on the planet, Lemuel, Cedar and Soren. My daughter Emily Kate is a lovely young woman anthropologist and my son Adam is fourteen and a student--he's a genius who loves frogs and lizards and fish and plants. He amazes me.

I have never eaten a scallop. I love cream soda. Drink way too much coffee. I do not like elevators but I do enjoy needle arts and of course books. I prefer jazz over country (no offense), milk chocolate over dark, but not roller coasters although my life has often resembled a roller coaster ride.

One of my life's desires is to meet Amy Grant so I can tell her she saved my life.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Maybelle can’t sew. But when she finds an unfinished quilt in the attic of her mother’s house, she gets the crazy idea to complete it. At first, it’s just a way to fill the lonely nights while her husband, staff sergeant Holden Kanzinzki, is away fighting in World War II.

Yet when Maybelle discovers that the quilt is made from scraps of material that can be traced back through her family heritage, the project is suddenly much more important. Then word comes that Holden is missing in action, and with little else to do, Maybelle clings to the quilt as much as to the hope that her husband is still alive. As neighborhood friends gather around Maybelle to help her through the unknown days and nights ahead, it is the quilt that becomes a symbol of her unflagging belief that Holden will return—to her, to their home, and to their quilt-covered bed.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Maybelle In Stitches, go HERE.

The Tide and the Tempest

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Tide and Tempest Bethany House Publishers (March 4, 2014) by Elizabeth Ludwig

MY THOUGHTS:

This is the third and final book in the Edge of Freedom series. I enjoyed the first book, No Safe Harbor, but somehow missed the publication of the second, and that had an impact on my ability to follow and enjoy this one. It is really necessary to read all three books in the series.

I found the political elements of the book quite confusing, most likely because I missed book two and it's been a while since I read the first. But despite that I found the story line compelling and the characters interesting. I would have liked the story to continue just a bit longer, although I don't see how another book in the series is forthcoming.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Elizabeth Ludwig is an award-winning author whose work has been featured on Novel Rocket, the Christian Authors Network, and The Christian Pulse. Her first novel, Where the Truth Lies (co-authored with Janelle Mowery), earned her the 2008 IWA Writer of the Year Award. This book was followed in 2009 by "I'll be Home for Christmas", part of the Christmas anthology collection, Christmas Homecoming.

In 2011, her second mystery, Died in the Wool (co-authored with Janelle Mowery) was nominated for a Carol Award. In 2012, the popular EDGE OF FREEDOM series released from Bethany House Publishers. Books one and two, No Safe Harbor and Dark Road Home, respectively, earned 4 Stars from the RT Book Reviews. Book three, Tide and Tempest, received top honors with 4 1/2 Stars.

Elizabeth is an accomplished speaker and teacher, often attending conferences and seminars where she lectures on editing for fiction writers, crafting effective novel proposals, and conducting successful editor/agent interviews. Along with her husband and children, she makes her home in the great state of Texas.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Two years ago, her fiance perished during their voyage to America.

Now she discovers it may have been murder...

Dreaming of a better life, Tillie McGrath leaves Ireland behind and, with her beloved fiance by her side, sets sail for America. But when illness robs her of the man she holds dear, she's left alone with only a handful of tattered memories. While forging on proves difficult, Tillie soon finds some new friends at her New York boardinghouse, and begins pursuing a new dream--to open a home for orphaned children.

Despite two years passing, Captain Keondric Morgan has never forgotten the lass who left his ship so heartbroken. When a crewman's deathbed confession reveals her fiance's demise was the result of murder, the captain knows he must try to contact her. But his attention draws the notice of others as well--dangerous men who believe Tillie has in her possession something that could expose their crimes. And to their way of thinking, the best way to prevent such an outcome is to seize the evidence and then hand Tillie the same fate as her naïve fiance.

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

Poison Town

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Poison Town David C. Cook (February 1, 2014) by Creston Mapes

MY THOUGHTS:
This is the second book in the Crittendon Files Series, and it is a fabulous follow up to Fear Has a Name. Again, Mapes had me sitting on the edge of my seat as I cheered for the 'good guys' to beat the corrupt corporation that was poisoning the town of Trenton City, Ohio.

It would be helpful to read Fear Has a Name before you read Poison Town, but there is probably enough back story that you can figure this one out without it.

Jack Crittendon gets thrown into  a tough story, which his boss for some reason doesn't want him to research. In the midst of this struggle, he is dealing with a personal issue where forgiveness is needed but almost impossible to grant.

I will always pick up a new Creston Mapes book! Highly recommended.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Creston has fond memories of his boyhood in Bath, Ohio, where he became enchanted with his future wife, way back in the fourth grade. His father, Bernie, owned and operated The Weathervane Furniture Shop in town. The whole family lived right upstairs in the century-old house known as "The Shop."

Creston studied journalism at Bowling Green State University, then began his writing career. During the past 30 years, he has worked as a reporter, corporate copywriter, creative director, freelance writer, and author.


ABOUT THE BOOK

There's More Than One Kind of Poison in This Town

People are sick and dying. Rumors are swirling. Some claim chemicals leaking from a manufacturing plant are causing the cancer that's crippling people on the poor side of Trenton City, Ohio. Yet nothing at the plant appears amiss.

The problem remains a mystery until reporter Jack Crittendon's long-time mechanic falls ill and he investigates. Soon Jack becomes engulfed in a smokescreen of lies, setups, greed, and scandal.

The deeper he digs, the more toxic the corruption he uncovers. As he faces off with the big-time players behind the scenes and tries to beat the clock before more people die, he realizes the chillingly unthinkable--he knows too much.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Poison Town, go HERE.

How Sweet The Sound

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing How Sweet the Sound David C. Cook (March 1, 2014) by Amy K. Sorrells

MY THOUGHTS:
This is Amy Sorrells first book, and she is obviously a force to be reckoned with in the book world!

This book is a gift to anyone who has suffered sexual assault and struggles to heal. It is fiction, and it details the terrors of a family whose multi-generational secrets are tearing it apart. Sorrells writes in such a way that it wrenches your heart one moment and lets you cheer for progress and victory another. It is not an easy book to read, however her prose and ability to intimately understand the heart of a teenager caught in the midst of disaster are compelling. I cared so much about the primary characters, Anni and Comfort, that I became almost desperate to know how the story ended.

this book may be difficult for someone who has been through such abuse to read, however I'm convinced God will heal broken hearts through this story.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

An Indianapolis native and graduate of DePauw University, Amy lives with her husband, three boys and a gaggle of golden retrievers in central Indiana. After writing and editing for her college newspaper, she combined a nursing degree with journalism and creative writing, which led to publishing and editing a wide array of medical and nursing writing and multimedia projects over the past 21 years, a position as director of communications of her church’s children’s ministry, as well as a weekly column for a local newspaper which ran from 2009-2012. She has been a two-time semi-finalist for the ACFW Genesis awards, and was the winner of the 2011 Women of Faith writing contest.

When she’s not reading or writing, Amy loves spending time with her three sons; spicy lunches and art gallery walks with her husband; digging in her garden sans gloves; walking her dogs; up-cycling old furniture and junk; photography; and friends.



ABOUT THE BOOK

From a distance, the Harlans appear to be the perfect Southern family. Wealth and local fame mask the drama and dysfunction swirling through their family line. But as the summer heats up, a flood tide of long hidden secrets surface.

Devastation from a rape followed by the murder of two family members brings three generations of the Harlans together on their pecan plantation in Bay Spring, Alabama. Chief among them is Anniston, who by the time she turned thirteen thought she’d seen it all. But as her heart awakens to the possibility of love, she begins to deal with her loneliness and grief.

This tender coming-of-age tale, inspired by the story of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13, shows how true healing and hope comes only from God. Though our earthly family can wound and disappoint, our heavenly Father brings freedom to those long held captive through His mercy and grace.

If you would like to read the first chapter of How Sweet the Sound, go HERE.

Balanced

Balanced: Finding Center as a Work-at-home Mom
by
Tricia Goyer


MY THOUGHTS:
Without a doubt, every single mom works from home should read this book. Tricia Goyer has been recognized by women all over the country as someone who appears to be THE superwoman among women. She has six children (three under age 6) and homeschools them. In her 'spare' time, she has run a home for unwed mothers, started at least two Teen MOPS groups, moved across the country, done missions work internationally, hosted a radio show, and has given numerous presentations all across the country. Oh, and by the way, she has also written over 35 books! Whew!

In this book, Tricia gets real about the difficulties of working from home, the impact it has on her life and her family, and the realities of combining tight deadlines with potty training. She doesn't sugar coat it, but instead gives terrific examples of the things she has done to make it work for her and her family.

The book addresses family priorities and goals, themes for family life, getting kids involved in work, setting up an effective workplace, doing what you can with the time you have, and finding ways to relax and center your life with God.

This book comes with a great 'disclaimer':
"Disclaimer. This book may not be for you if: You are looking for a simple how-to manual with only schedules, outlines, and agendas. You don't think your spiritual life impacts your work and home life. You think the whole balance issue depends on you and not on your dependence on God.

In this book, there is as much inner work I'm going to talk about as there are ideas, helps, and tips for balancing. Because as someone who's been working at home nearly all of my twenty-four years as a parent, I've discovered three main things:
1.What I do isn't as important as who I am.
2.What God can do in my life and what He's capable of doing can be two very different things--I don't want to limit Him.
3.My outward goals are only reachable if I submit my inward soul to God.

If this sounds like a book you need, good. If not, I understand! We moms only have so much time. You need to spend your time, energy, and hard-earned money on a book that will meet your expectations.

Know that I'm praying God will speak to your heart through my story. I hope you'll discover good advice to help you follow the dreams God has placed in your heart and be the wife and mom you've always wanted to be." - Quoted from Tricia Goyer - Balanced: Finding Center as a Work-at-Home Mom

Tricia 'gets' the desire to be a supermom, and the reality of feeling like a failure. This book is a blessed combination of "you are doing a lot of things right", and inspiration (instead of guilt) to tackle some things that you could do better. I finished the book and felt like I had a cheerleader on my side helping me be a better mom, worker, wife, and child of God. 

Join in  Tricia's Balanced author chat party on March 10 (https://www.facebook.com/events/1452943561603285/). Tricia will be chatting about her tips for attaining balance and juggling the many hats moms wear. There will also be some giveaways, and Tricia will announce the start of an eleven-day Balanced challenge that begins on March 11. You're invited to take part in the challenge, and everyone who participates will receive a downloadable package of freebies from Tricia and her friends!

ABOUT THE BOOK:
How can a work-at-home mom raise kids, juggle a career and take care of family responsibilities with only 24-hour days? Working at home while raising kids and juggling a career and family responsibilities is no easy feat. Author and homeschooling mom Tricia Goyer shares her tips for finding balance among all your many hats as a mom. Balancing is a process and a journey, one that Tricia herself has yet to perfect. But between writing more than forty books, raising and homeschooling six kids, being a wife, and being active in her community, she has amassed valuable tips she shares in "Balanced."

The book includes tips on:
—how to create focus themes for your family
—how to prioritize your schedule
—how to utilize your job so it also benefits your kids
—how to keep yourself out of the comparison game
—how to make working at home work for you
—and much more!

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. You can find out more about Tricia at www.TriciaGoyer.com.
Find out more about Tricia at http://triciagoyer.com.

Dating, Dining, and Desperation

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Dating, Dining, and Desperation B&H Books (March 1, 2014) by Melody Carlson

MY THOUGHTS:
As I've said before, I love the way Melody Carlson writes and I've enjoyed each of her books to date. Dating, Dining, and Desperation is no exception!

What a fun concept for a series -- a single woman stands to inherit a gorgeous old Victorian home and a lot of money IF she weds within a year. Apparently her maiden aunt wasn't satisfied with the single life and thought her niece shouldn't be, either!

At first I thought this would be a great premise for ONE book, not a series. But I really enjoy the way Carlson is dividing the one year time limit into four quarters. The trials and tribulations of deciding if she even wants to marry, combined with the 'help' of friends who think she must, is fodder for a lot of laughs and interesting situations.

I recommend reading these books in order -- Lock, Stock, and Over a Barrel first, then this one. And in an end note, Carlson informs us that the next in the series, Hearth, Home, and Holidays, will be an ebook -- which means it will be available much sooner! Yeah!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Over the years, Melody Carlson has worn many hats, from pre-school teacher to youth counselor to political activist to senior editor. But most of all, she loves to write! Currently she freelances from her home. In the past eight years, she has published over ninety books for children, teens, and adults--with sales totaling more than two million and many titles appearing on the ECPA Bestsellers List. Several of her books have been finalists for, and winners of, various writing awards.

She has two grown sons and lives in Central Oregon with her husband and chocolate lab retriever. They enjoy skiing, hiking, gardening, camping and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Daphne Ballinger has learned to accept her deceased, eccentric aunt’s strange request that she marry in order to inherit her estate, along with taking over her aunt’s hometown paper’s advice column. But knowing and accepting that God’s will be done becomes harder when a new neighbor, a divorced socialite, learns of Daphne’s predicament and takes on the task of finding her the perfect man, even if it includes speed dating. When God does open Daphne’s heart, it is instead to take in a young girl left parentless and in the care of her dying grandmother. It may be a temporary arrangement until the girl’s uncle returns from the Marines, but God uses Daphne to speak His heavenly love and protection into the life of the child -- whom Daphne soon discovers has a very handsome and single uncle.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Dating, Dining, and Desperation, go HERE.

The Ether: Vero Rising

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Ether: Vero Rising Zonderkidz (February 4, 2014) by Laurice E. Molinari

MY THOUGHTS:
I gave this book to my 14 year old son to read. He really enjoys books like the Hunger Games, Percy Jackson, Divergent, and The Maze.

He enjoyed the part of the book he read -- about 1/4th of it -- but got distracted and didn't get back to the rest. I asked if he would recommend the book to others, and he was adamant that he would. I asked if he planned to finish reading it, and apparently he is not, but in perfect character as a 14 year old boy he was unable to explain why.

I will pass the book along to another one of my young readers who pretty much attacks every book he gets his hands on and I'll update when he's finished.

The story sounds interesting (read the synopsis, below), and the author has an amazing background in story telling. I imagine this book will be well received by many tween readers!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Laurice Elehwany Molinari, a veteran film and TV writer in Hollywood for over two decades, has penned over thirty scripts for various studios and networks. Her very first feature script, written while a fellow at the American Film Institute, became Columbia Picture’s critically acclaimed children’s classic, My Girl. She went on to pen The Brady Bunch Movie and The Amazing Panda Adventure. Laurice lives with her husband and two children in Los Angeles, the City of Angels, where her lifelong love for our heavenly guardians inspired her to write a book about them in the ETHER series.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Fiercest of Warriors? Vero Leland always suspected he was different from others his own age, ever since his childhood attempts to fly. But he never could have predicted the truth---or how much his life was about to change. Soon after his twelfth birthday, Vero learns he is a guardian angel and is abruptly transported to the Ether, the spiritual realm that surrounds the earth. Yet before he can be counted among these fierce warriors, Vero must learn to master his growing powers, competing with other angels-in- training and battling demonic creatures known as maltures as well as mythical creatures such as the leviathan. Until his instruction is complete, Vero needs to alternate between the Ether and his regular life. If he survives training and accepts his destiny---a destiny he did not choose---he must leave everything behind, including his family and the life he loves. Meanwhile, an evil is growing---the maltures are rising, and Vero appears to be their target.

Enjoy the book trailer:

If you'd like to read the first chapter of The Ether: Vero Rising, go HERE.

A Sky Without Stars

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Sky Without Stars Abingdon Press (February 18, 2014) by Linda S. Clare MY THOUGHTS:
 A Sky Without Stars is a story of fresh starts -- which often aren't as easy as hoped. It is set in the 1950's (which was easy to forget) in Phoenix, Arizona. The story revolves around Frankie Running Bear, a widowed mom of Indian heritage, trying to make it in a world that was pretty hostile.

I really enjoyed this book, the next in the Quilts of Love series. It is well written and the story has a lot of twists and turns between several interesting characters. I particularly enjoyed the historical aspects of the story. That is one of my favorite aspects of this series -- I learn a lot of information about various periods in history woven through an enjoyable story!

I would have liked more information at the end of the book -- it seemed like it ended a bit suddenly. This would be a good one for a sequel!





ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Linda S. Clare is an award-winning author and coauthor of several books and has also published many essays, stories, and poems in publications, including The Christian Reader, The Denver Post, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Her most recent book is A Sky without Stars, the newest release in Abingdon’s Quilts of Love line. Born in Arizona, Linda and her husband now make their home in Eugene, Oregon, where Linda has taught college-level creative writing classes, and writes, edits, and mentors other writers. She also is a frequent writing conference presenter, a church retreat leader, and mom to four grown children and five wayward cats.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Frankie Chasing Bear is caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she also thinks he will need to learn the white man’s ways to succeed. After the untimely death of her husband, Frankie joins the U.S. Government’s Relocation Program and moves to Arizona. There she begins sewing a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn, and prayed into it. A bed without a quilt is like a sky without stars, but neither the quilt—nor her new life—comes easily to Frankie. Nick Vandergriff, for instance, is the last man Frankie wants to trust. He’s half-Lakota but Christian, and Frankie can see no good coming from that faith after her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian school. Can Nick convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren’t all bad? And will Frankie learn that love is the most important ingredient—for her son’s quilt and life itself?


If you would like to read the first chapter of A Sky Without Stars, go HERE.

You're Going to Be Okay

You're Going to Be Okay
by
Holley Gerth


MY THOUGHTS:
This is the second Holley Gerth book I've read, and I'm a believer! I'll read every book she writes -- it is like a conversation with your best friend. Holley tells stories of thing that have happened to her, her friends, and her clients (she is a life coach) that resonate with all of us as women. She bares insecurities, fear, guilt, and shame in ways that demonstrate God's love for each of us in spite of what we've done. In fact, she proves God's love for us BECAUSE of who we are and what we've been through.

She reminds us that each of us is irreplaceable -- there will only be one me, one you, in the entire history of the world and we have this one shot at doing what God intends us to do. No one else has the exact same combination of experiences, education, heritage, or desires. Therefore no one else can do what you're uniquely qualified to do.

Holley's books are a breath of fresh air in a stale world.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
If your life isn't perfect...
If you've ever been disappointed...
If you feel stressed or tired...
This is for you.

You really are going to be okay. And it truly is possible to live with joy, resilience, and strength no matter what life brings. Yes, there will be hurt and hard times. But God wants to help you find ways to survive, grow stronger, and even thrive -- no matter what happens.

With her trademark positive encouragement and probing questions for self-reflection, bestselling author Holley Gerth encourages you to spend less of your life stressing or regretting and more of your life truly living.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Holley Gerth is a bestselling writer, certified life coach, and speaker. She loves connecting with the hearts of women through her popular blog and books like You're Already Amazing, you're made for a God-sized Dream, and Opening the Door to Your God-Sized Dream. She's also cofounder of (in)courage and a partner with DaySpring. Holley lives with her husband, Mark, in the South. Hang out with her at www.holleygerth.com

Seams Unlikely

Seams Unlikely
by Nancy Zieman with Marjorie L. Russell


MY THOUGHTS:
Nancy Zieman was been a staple in both my mother's and my mother-in-law's homes. In addition to watching the PBS show regularly, both women bought videos of the show, books by Nancy, and notions through her company. Both were great seamstresses whose skills are due, in part, to the lessons they learned on this show.

So I was very interested to find out more about this woman who has captured the hearts and needles of women across the country. Who is this woman, and how did she become such a good seamstress and instructor?

This book begins before Nancy is born and takes the reader through her life and thirty years of the Sewing With Nancy show. It is written in a warm, comfortable manner that makes you feel like you and Nancy are sitting next to each other on a long plane ride and she decided to share her background.

I tend to like to cut to the main point, and this book takes quite a while to get there. Nancy's early years are interesting, but I learned more about life on a farm that I expected to. But what I came away with is the sense that Nancy is 'just a normal person' like you or me, and she just happened to become an international celebrity! She seems a bit uncomfortable with all the hoopla surrounding her life, but has learned to deal with her celebrity status graciously. Underneath all aspects of her life she maintains a strong faith in God and is humbly thankful for all she has accomplished.

You can purchase a copy of the book on Amazon, and you can learn more about Nancy and this book at the website, http://seamsunlikely.com/

ABOUT THE BOOK:
For the first time ever, Nancie Zieman shares her life story. The host of the longest-running sewing show on television takes readers behind the scenes of Sewing With Nancy and shares her heartaches and triumphs along the way.

Millions of women learned to sew while watching teh inimitable Nancy Zieman on public television's Sewing With Nancy. Many of them have Googled phrases like "Nancy Zieman stroke" in an effort to discover the reasons behind the partial paralysis of Nancy's beautiful face. Viewers purchased products Nancy used through Nany's Notions, followed patterns she created for McCall's and enjoyed meeting distinguished guests via the show.

Now nancy takes her viewers behind the scenes of her life. She shares about the Bell's palsy that not only afected her appearance, but also her esteem and phycical abilities. Readers learn about the growth of Nancy professionally: from addressing catalogs at the kitchen table to growing a multi-million dollar notions business -- and personally: marrying Rich, then growing a family through birth and adoption.

Through it all, the picture emerges of a hard-working woman who overcame various and varied obstacles to become what she is today: successful, skilled, gracious, and loved by millions of viewers.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Nancy Zieman—author, designer, businesswomen, producer, blogger and national sewing authority—is the host of the popular show Sewing With Nancy®, which appears exclusively on public television stations across the United States and Canada.

You can watch Sewing With Nancy® online at nancyzieman.com or from your mobile Apple® device, Click here for iPhone and iPad options.

Sewing With Nancy® is a co-production of Wisconsin Public Television and Nancy Zieman Productions. Broadcast since September 1982, the program is the longest-airing sewing series on television. Nancy organizes each show in a how-to format, concentrating on step-by-step instructions.
Nancy has written numerous books. She designs patterns for the New York-based McCall Pattern Company, designs sewing and quilting products for Clover Needlecraft, Inc., and also writes an interactive blog nancyzieman.com/blog

In addition, Nancy is founder of Nancy’s Notions®, a division of Tacony Corporation. The company publishes the Nancy’s Notions® Catalog, a full color catalog containing hundreds of products including sewing books, notions, videos and DVDs, fabrics, and quilting products. Nancy is also the National Spokesperson for Baby Lock sewing machines and Nancy’s Notions®.
T
he Wisconsin Women Entrepreneurs Association named Nancy the 1988 Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year. In 1991, she received the National 4-H Alumni Award.

Nancy lives in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, with her husband, Richard. The couple has two children and two grandchildren.

Thank you to Glass Road Publishing for providing a copy of Seams Unlikely for this review.