5.29.2013

Catch a Falling Star by Beth K. Vogt ~ Litfuse Blog Tour and Review

Catch a Falling StarLucie's Review: A book that is so much deeper than it appears at first glance.

Kendall and Griffin learn to trust their futures to God, and handle life's twists.

I  absolutely loved this book! It had such amazing depth, and lessons that can touch anybody from the new believer to the lifetime Christ follower. The story was so well told and the characters were so well developed, and their interactions were so meaningful and made the relationships grow naturally and realistically. There was just so much to love about this book, on top of a stellar storyline all of which made this book more than enjoyable.

One of the absolute best things about this book were the lessons it taught, about life, living, and love.

There was an amazing side story about Evie, her husband, their adopted son, there was enough depth heart in just that story alone to write a whole book! I absolutely loved it.

Overall, this book was just amazing. It totally blew me away! Everything was so well done from the plot, to the characters, to the faith elements and life lessons, to just how wonderful Ms. Vogt is at connecting with her readers. There was so much goodness packed into such a normal sized book, plus there was a whole other storyline that I didn't even mention! Everything just fit together so well, one of the best books I have read this year! 5 stars all the way.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

About Catch a Falling Star:

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

At 36, Kendall Haynes has seen some of her dreams come true. She's a family physician helping kids with severe allergies and asthma achieve more fulfilling lives-a childhood struggle she knows all too well. But the feeling of being "the kid never picked" looms large when romance continues to evade her and yet another one of her closest friends gets engaged. Are Kendall's dreams of having it all-a career, a husband, children-nothing more than childish wishing upon a star? Should she hold out for her elusive Plan A? Dust off Plan B? Or is it time to settle? God says he knows the plans he has for her-why can't Kendall figure them out and be content with her life?
Griffin Walker prefers flying solo-both as an Air Force pilot and in his personal life. But a wrong choice and health problems pulled him out of the cockpit. His attempts to get out of "flying a desk" are complicated by his parents' death-making Griffin the reluctant guardian of his sixteen-year-old brother, Ian. How did his life get so off course? Can God get his life back on track ... or has there been a divine plan all along?
Catch a Falling Star reminds readers that romance isn't just for twenty-somethings and that sometimes letting go of your "wish I may, wish I might" dreams is the only way to embrace everything God has waiting for you.

Purchase a copy: 
http://ow.ly/kUDLa
Meet Beth: 

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

Find out more about Beth K. at http://bethvogt.com.
 
Check out all of the other great stops on the tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/bvogt
Celebrate the release of Catch a Falling Star (Howard Books) with Beth K. Vogt by entering to win a Romantic Weekend Getaway and RSVPing for her June 4th Author Chat Party.


FallingStar300

  One "lucky" winner will receive:
  • A $200 Visa Cash Card (Perfect for a weekend stay at a hotel or B&B!)
  • Catch a Falling Star and Wish You Were Here by Beth Vogt (Swoon-worthy!)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 3rd. Winner will be announced at the "Catch a Falling Star" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 4th. Connect with Beth for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Beth will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Catch a Falling Star and join Beth on the evening of June 4th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP todayTell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 4th!

The Offering by Angela Elwell Hunt ~ Litfuse Blog Tour and Review

The Offering: A NovelMy Review: An intriguing book that delves into the subject of surrogacy and it's effects on the modern day family.

Amanda Lisandra is a military wife, struggling to make ends meet and put her daughter through school, when she hears of a way to earn money with one of the few resources she has, her body to give a childless couple a baby.
But then her husband dies leaving her distraught. But then when she sees a picture of the baby she gave away, she begins to question, and wonders if she might have given up her and her late husband's own biological child...

This was a heartbreaking read, because I felt like this was such hard situation so many ways around and my heart hurt for what Amanda lost.

The story was well written with a portrayal of the emotions that Amanda was going through, at times it was just so hard to read, because of the parallels of what it was like for Amanda and her sister-in-law, Amelia.

I felt that Ms. Hunt did a good job of portraying Amanda and how normal women are convinced to be surrogates.

Overall, a well told story with a bitter sweet taste to it, Amanda had to make so many tough choices that tested her and her faith to the limits, I can't imagine what she was going through. A great book for those who like a emotional read on a controversial subject.


I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

About The Offering:

From bestselling author Angela Hunt, the heart-wrenching story of a young mother who unknowingly gave away her own child after serving as a surrogate for a childless couple.


After growing up as an only child, Amanda Lisandra wants a big family. But since she and her soldier husband can't afford to have more children right away, Mandy decides to earn money as a gestational carrier for a childless couple. She loves being pregnant, and while carrying the child she dreams of having her own son and maybe another daughter. . .
Just when the nearly perfect pregnancy is about to conclude, unexpected tragedy enters Mandy's world and leaves her reeling. Devastated by grief, she surrenders the child she was carrying and struggles to regain her emotional equilibrium.
Two years later she studies a photograph of the baby she bore and wonders if the unthinkable has happened---could she have inadvertently given away her own biological child? Over the next few months Mandy struggles to decide between the desires of her grief-stricken heart and what's best for the little boy she has never known.
Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/l6HiW

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

Learn more at
http://www.angelahuntbooks.com
Angela Hunt is celebrating the release of The Offering with a Nook HD Giveaway and an Author Chat Party on Facebook {6/5}.
The-offering300

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

So grab your copy of The Offering and join Angela on the evening of June 5th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP todayTell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 5th!

5.28.2013

Merlin's Blade by Robert Treskillard ~ CSFF Blog Tour & Review

Merlin's Blade (The Merlin Spiral, #1)My Review: I have found a new favorite fantasy favorite in Merlin's Blade!

I've always enjoyed reading stories or watching movies and TV shows about King Arthur and his knights of the round table, but Merlin has always been my favorite legend. I especially love the Christian re-tellings of his legendary tale, so this book had a lot to live up to, and it definitely exceeded my expectations.

It was a bit slow to start, but by chapter five I knew that this book was totally for me! Merlin was a noble character with an inner strength about him, his past was a fresh, exciting mystery.

This book is definitely setting this series up to be absolutely epic, there is no doubt about that!

There were a lot of characters to keep track of, but I found the guide in the back to be extremely helpful with that, especially because it taught me how to say their names the right way.

Overall, I loved the twists that Mr. Treskillard brought to this legend, in a new adventure. And I really liked how the speech was distinctly different from modern-day conversation, it really added a richness to the storytelling. There was plenty going on in the plot, so the pages turned steadily and I was far from bored! I will definitely be reading the next book in the series :)

In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.

Merlin’s Blade -  http://www.amazon.com/Merlins-Merlin-Spiral-Robert-Treskillard/dp/0310735076/
Author blog - http://www.epictales.org/blog/robertblog.php
Author’s website - http://www.kingarthur.org.uk/




 
Noah Arsenault Beckie Burnham Keanan Brand Jeff Chapman Laure Covert Pauline Creeden Emma or Audrey Engel April Erwin Victor Gentile Ryan Heart Timothy Hicks Jason Joyner Carol Keen Krystine Kercher Shannon McDermott Meagan @ Blooming with Books Rebecca LuElla Miller Joan Nienhuis Nathan Reimer Chawna Schroeder Kathleen Smith Jojo Sutis Robert Treskillard Steve Trower Phyllis Wheeler Shane Werlinger Nicole White

The Promise Box by Tricia Goyer ~ Litfuse Blog Tour & Review

The Promise Box (Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors #2)Lucie's Review:

Lydia has lived the in the English world for the last six years, but when her mother dies she returns to the community.
Gideon has memories from his past that haunt him, yet one detail always seems to allude him...

An absolutely excellent book! I loved how it all came together into such a beautiful poignant story. I loved how the community, for the most part, welcomed her back with open arms, and Annie was such a sweetheart.

I loved how well developed the characters were, and their interaction was pretty natural. I loved how Lydia's mother became a character that I absolutely loved, even though she wasn't physically present, she was such an important character that I felt like I knew and understood.This book just had so many good points that I can't even come close to mentioning them all!

I loved how there were so many elements to the plot and how it all came together. Lydia's mother loved her so much, no matter what, and how the promise box was so important to how it all came together. Another part that I really liked, was how Gideon trained his horse, with understanding and patience.

Overall, this has got to be my favorite Amish book that I have ever read, I loved everything about it! I loved the how the faith elements were portrayed and how all the parts of the plot wove together so beautifully, into such a poignant tale. Absolutely one of the best books I've read this year!

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

About The Promise Box:With her heart - and her loyalty - on the line, can she let true love in her life?

Every year, young Amish men descend on the cozy little town of West Kootenai, Montana, arriving in the spring to live there for six months and receive 'resident' status for the hunting season in the fall. They arrive as bachelors, but go home with brides! Lydia Wyse, a book editor from Seattle who grew up Amish, returns to the small community of West Kootenai, Montana to give comfort to her father after her mother's death.
She is drawn back to the familiar Amish ways after finding her mother's most precious possession, a Promise Box of prayers and scripture. What her publisher sees, though, is an opportunity for a sensational 'tell-all' book about the Amish. Lydia soon finds herself falling in love with Amish bachelor Gideon Hooley. She wants nothing more than to forget her past and look forward to a future as an Amish bride. 
Will the pain of her childhood-and her potential betrayal of her community-keep her from committing her whole heart?

Purchase your copy:
http://ow.ly/l6QH1

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

Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.
 
Check out all of the other great stops on the tour here: http://litfusegroup.com/author/tgoyer

 
Tricia Goyer is celebrating the release of her lastest novel, The Promise Box (Zondervan), by hosting an Amish Baking Box giveaway and connecting with readers during her June 12th Book Chat Party!
ThePromiseBox300

One "promising" winner will receive:
  • Apron, hot mitts, and kitchen towels
  • Amish baking items (rolling pin, pie plate, etc...)
  • Sherry Gore's Simply Delicious Amish Cooking
  • The Memory Jar and The Promise Box by Tricia Goyer 
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 11th. Winner will be announced at the "The Promise Box" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 12th. Connect with Tricia for an evening of Amish fun - book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Tricia will also share an exclusive look at the next book book in the Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

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

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

A Heartbeat Away by S. Dionne Moore ~ CFBA Blog Tour & Review

A Heartbeat Away: Quilts of Love SeriesLucie's Review:

One quilt holds a hidden message of faith.

Two people on opposite sides look to God for the light in the darkness.

A Heartbeat Away is a novel with strong characters, and a intriguing plot that makes for a heartwarming novel set during the Civil War.

It is a sweet tale, and historical snapshot of the Civil War, and showed a realistic view of what so many American must have been going through at such a sad and tragic time when brothers went to war against each other.

Overall, a well written book. I loved how well the quilt fit into the storyline. Just a great heartwarming, pick-me-up that was made for some cozy reading.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!



 
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Heartbeat Away
Abingdon Press (May 1, 2013)
by
S. Dionne Moore


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

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

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

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

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

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

Watch the video:
AHeartbeatAway - Medium from S. Dionne Moore on Vimeo.


5.27.2013

Undeniably Yours by Becky Wade ~ Litfuse Tour and Review

Undeniably Yours (A Porter Family #1)Lucie's Review:

What a fun read! I absolutely loved the characters, the side characters were stellar as well. Bo was so honorable, he could sense her vulnerability and he was willing to genuinely be there for her, he was her knight in shining armor.

The interaction between the characters was great, and I loved the side character of Mr. Son and how he took care of Jaden, so cute!

This was a great story with a terrific hero! I liked the steady, page-turning pace of the book, I didn't want to put it down!

There was a lot that transpired over the course of the book. Another thing that I thought was really good was how well the relationship building time was used to its full potential and made this book more believable.

Overall, this was a really well written book and I liked the characters, Meg was hardworking and not spoiled at all considering everything she'd went through. There was plenty of humor and moments that made me smile from ear to ear :)
I would definitely recommend this read.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

About Undeniably Yours:When Meg Cole's father dies unexpectedly, she's forced to return home to Texas and to Whispering Creek Ranch to take up the reins of his empire. The last thing she has the patience or the sanity to deal with? Her father's Thoroughbred racehorse farm. She gives its manager, Bo Porter, six months to close the place down.

Bo knows he ought to resent the woman who's determined to take from him the only job he ever wanted. But instead of anger, Meg evokes within him a profound desire to protect. The more time he spends with her, the more he longs to overcome every obstacle that separates them and earn her love.

Just when Meg realizes she can no longer deny the depth of her feelings for Bo, their fragile bond is broken by a force from Meg's past. Can their relationship-and their belief that God can work through every circumstance-survive?

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/kGPEI

Watch the Trailer:

Undeniably Yours Book Trailer
Undeniably Yours Book Trailer


Meet Becky:

Becky Wade is a graduate of Baylor University. As a newlywed, she lived for three years in a home overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, as well as in Australia, before returning to the States. A mom of three young children, Becky and her family now live in Dallas, Texas.

Visit her website at www.beckywade.com. 

Check out all of the other great stops on the tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/bwade

 
Becky Wade is celebrating her latest swoon-worthy novel, Undeniably Yours (Bethany House), with a Kindle Fire giveaway and hosting an Author Chat party on Facebook {5/29}!

UndeniablyYours

One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • Undeniably Yours and My Stubborn Heart by Becky Wade
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 28th. Winner will be announced at the "Undeniably Yours" Facebook Author Chat Party on May 29th. Connect with Becky for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Becky will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Undeniably Yours and join Becky on the evening of May 29th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP todayTell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 29th!

Safe Lands: Captives by Jill Williamson ~ TNT Tour + Giveaway!

Captives (The Safe Lands #1)My Review: Multiple main characters paint a vivid tale.

Ms. Williamson has brought to live an entirely new world, with entire orders and codes of its own. I was whisked away to Glenrock and then Safe Lands, I loved the way that she showed in various ways the many contrasts between the two civilizations, in not only landscape, but in way of life, and moral codes.

The story was told from various viewpoints, and usually that isn't my thing, but this time I think that it truly enhanced the story showing the strange new world that they had stepped into from each person's perspective.

I think that my favorite character was Mason, because he was quick-witted, careful, and always thinking not just going along with what was going on and wisely hiding his thoughts.

I really loved the brilliance of this plot, and how it focuses on finding absolute truth in a clouded world.

Overall, this book was an adventure that swept me to a different time and place, and all from the safety of my own home! I'll be honest and tell you right now that I don't want to visit Safe Lands anytime soon! But this book was a well written adventure, and I look forward to seeing how the epic unfolds in future books. You won't want to miss it!

I received this book from the author and the publisher in return for an honest review! Thank you!

Here is the blurb:
One choice could destroy them all.
When eighteen-year-old Levi returned from Denver City with his latest scavenged finds, he never imagined he’d find his village of Glenrock decimated, loved ones killed, and many—including his fiancée, Jem–taken captive. Levi is determined to rescue what remains of his people, even if it means entering the Safe Lands, a walled city that seems anything but safe.
Omar knows he betrayed his brother by sending him away, but helping the enforcers was necessary. Living off the land and clinging to an outdated religion holds his village back. The Safe Land has protected people since the plague decimated the world generations ago … and its rulers have promised power and wealth beyond Omar’s dreams.
Meanwhile, their brother Mason has been granted a position inside the Safe Lands, and may be able to use his captivity to save not only his people, but also find a cure for the virus that threatens everyone inside the Safe Lands.
Can Mason uncover the truth hidden behind the Safe Land’s façade before it’s too late?

Publisher: Zondervan/Blink
Genre: YA Dystopian

Author bio: 
Jill Williamson is an author of all things weird. She grew up in Alaska with no electricity, an outhouse, and a lot of mosquitoes. Her Blood of Kings trilogy won two Christy Awards, and she recently released Captives, a dystopian teen novel from Zonderkidz. Jill lives in Oregon with her husband and two children and a whole lot of deer.

Here is a link to her website: http://www.jillwilliamson.com
Here is the link for The Safe Lands website, as if you are online in The Safe Lands itself:  http://thesafelands.com 
Here is a link to my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/jwilliamsonwrites?fref=ts



 


Watch the trailer:
 
And a Finley & Flynn newscast!
 
You can purchase the book at any of the online retailers linked below or at your favorite Christian book store!
 
Amazon Paperback Book Page: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0310724228/ref=as_li_ss_til?tag=wwwteenageaut-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=0310724228&adid=02BF3WZ0EAK4MFFP28QA

Amazon Kindle Page: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008EGV6LO/ref=as_li_ss_til?tag=wwwteenageaut-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B008EGV6LO&adid=0CENNBY708Z2WG62TPYF

B&N Paperback and Nook Book Page: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/captives-jill-williamson/1111811218?ean=9780310724223 

ChristianBook.com Paperback Book Page: http://www.christianbook.com/captives-jill-williamson/9780310724223/pd/724223?product_redirect=1&Ntt=724223&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP

Kobo ebook page: http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Captives/book-UokkMX-S1UmUd6XrBNlLcQ/page1.html

GoodReads Page: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16103816-captives

Shelfari Page:  http://www.shelfari.com/books/29736323/Captives-(Safe-Lands-The)/readers-reviews

Also please check out the other stops on this tour:
ADD Librarian • Blooming with Books • Bookworm Reading • Chris Kolmorgen • Christian Book Review Blog • Christian Bookshelf ReviewsCTF Devourer • Emily Rachelle WritesHeavenward Reviews • Jessica Laurie • Labor Not in Vain • The Life of a Teenage Writer • The Maniacal BookwormMrs. Southern BrideOh, Restless Bird • Pages from My Journal • The Pen and ParchmentRachelle Rea • The Ramblings of a Young Author • Realm of HeartsShadow Writer World • A Simple Life, Really?!Surrendering All of Me • Terri Harr • Verbosity Book Reviews • Who YA Reading? • Worthy2Read • The Writings of Rosie



Here's your chance to enter to win a copy of Captives by Jill Williamson!

Use the rafflecopter to enter. US residents only please!

 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

5.25.2013

Diamond in the Rough by Jennifer AlLee and Lisa Karon Richardson ~ FIRST Wild Card Blog Tour & Review

Diamond In the Rough (Charm and Deciet, #1)Lucie's Review: A fun filled adventure!

Grant Diamond is a gambler on the run from the Pinkerton Detectives, accused of a murder he did not commit, takes on the identity of Reverend Crew. He meets Lily when he is felled by her infamous hoop skirt!
But when Carter, the Pinkerton Detective who has been after, Grant for three years comes to town and decides to stay awhile, Grant is in for the ride of his life!

An absolutely fantastic read! This was such a fun book, with a brilliantly fresh plot, and plenty of action. The characters were all likable and well developed, I absolutely loved the way that Carter and Grant interacted with each other between Carter trying to trip up Grant "Reverend Crew" and Grant avoiding his tricks, and meanwhile they worked together to protect the town and came to respect each other. It was pretty funny to see Grant sweat!

There was a lot going along, and the plot was easy to follow, but there were lots of fun twists. I just loved how fun this book was to read! Lily was a great character and I loved how she didn't want to just sit there and do nothing she wanted to be a part of the action and make a difference. She always had good intentions, and kept trying even if things didn't got the way she wanted.

Overall, this was a fantastic read, with adventure, mystery, romance, and faith. And I liked reading about Grant's journey, and even though he was pretended to be a preacher it was rubbing off on him and making him really think about the things in his life that he'd like to change. I loved the humorous situations, and adventure, there wasn't a thing that I didn't love about this book! I hope the next book is about Carter :) Highly recommend!

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!



Today's Wild Card authors are:


and the book:

Whitaker House (May 1, 2013)

***Special thanks to Cathy Hickling for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Veteran authors Jennifer AlLee and Lisa Karon Richardson have combined their considerable skills to create the action-packed historical romance series, Charm & Deceit, for Whitaker House.


Jennifer AlLee is the bestselling author of The Love of His Brother (2007) for Five Star Publishers, and for Abington Press: The Pastor's Wife (2010), The Mother Road (April 2012), and A Wild Goose Chase Christmas (November 2012). She’s also published a number of short stories, devotions and plays. Jennifer is a passionate participant in her church’s drama ministry. She lives with her family in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Visit the author's website.


Lisa Karon Richardson has led a life of adventure — from serving as a missionary in the Seychelles and Gabon to returning to the U.S. to raise a family—and she imparts her stories with similarly action-packed plot lines. She’s the author of Impressed by Love (2012) for Barbour Publishing’s Colonial Courtships anthology, The Magistrate’s Folly, and Midnight Clear, part of a 2013 holiday anthology, also from Barbour. Lisa lives with her husband and children in Ohio.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Grant Diamond is a professional gambler on the run from his past. When he comes across a wagon wreck, the chance to escape his pursuers is too good a gamble to pass up, so he assumes the identity of the dead wagon driver. His plan takes an unexpected turn, though, when heiress Lily Rose mistakes him for the missionary she had asked to come to Eureka, California to work with the local Wiyot Indians. Seeing Eureka as a promising place to lay low, Grant plays along. Before he knows it, he’s bluffing his way through sermons and building a school. But with a Pinkerton on his trail and a rancher rousing fresh hatred against the Indians, Grant fears the new life he’s built may soon crumple like a house of cards.
Genre: Historical Christian Romance


Product Details:
List Price: $12.99
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Whitaker House (May 1, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1603747427
ISBN-13: 978-1603747424


AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

April 1861

Eureka, California

“They’re dying, Hodge!” Lily burst through the door of the general store. “I don’t know what’s wro—oomph.” She jerked to a stop as her hoopskirt caught in the door. Again.
A handful of choice phrases leaped to mind, but she settled for inarticulate grumbling as she reached back with one hand to wrench the flexible metallic hoops free. As she staggered forward, her skirts belled out, knocking over a display of stacked baking soda tins. She stooped to prevent the cans from rolling willy-nilly across the floor, only to have the back of her skirt swing in the opposite direction and make contact with something solid.
Hodge wiped his hands on his apron as he hurried around from behind the counter. “Just leave it, Miss Lily.”
Lily straightened, shifting the cumbersome flowerpot she held in the crook of one arm. With her free hand, she swept the loose tendrils of hair from her eyes and tucked them behind her ear. “You really need to widen that door.”
Hodge cocked his head and planted his hands on his hips. “You really need to wear skirts that don’t endanger life and limb.”
Lily narrowed her eyes and opened her mouth to correct him, but she snapped it shut again when she noticed a man leaning against the counter. His dark hair stood up in spiky patches, as if he’d run his fingers through it repeatedly since removing his hat. His craggy complexion was saved from severity by the quirk of a dimple at the corner of his mouth and the glint of humor in his green eyes.
With a barely perceptible nod, Lily turned away from the stranger’s amused glance and squared her shoulders. She wasn’t above arguing with Hodge, but she couldn’t afford to antagonize him right now. She needed his help.
She thrust the flowerpot she carried at the shopkeeper. A feathery purple peony drooped listlessly over the side, its leaves marred by irregular black spots. “Can you tell me what’s wrong with this thing?”
Hodge plucked off one of the saddest-looking leaves and rubbed it between his fingers, then lifted it to his nose and sniffed. “You’ve got blight.” He tossed the leaf back into the pot.
“Blight?” That sounded bad. And pervasive. Whatever it was hadn’t afflicted just this particular plant. Half the peonies in the greenhouse looked the same. Mama was going to have a fit when she got back from San Francisco. “What did I do?”
“Don’t flatter yourself. It’s caused by a fungus.”
“Oh.” That was some small consolation. “Is there any cure?”
“Sure, there is.”
Lily tamped down her irritation, forcing a smile instead. Getting information out of Hodge was more tedious than pulling weeds from the garden. “And what might that cure be?”
“Steep a handful of elder leaves in hot water with some Castile soap, then rub it on the leaves.”
“Castile soap?”
“Yep. I’ve got some in the back.” Hodge held up his hand, halting her attempt to follow him. “Oh no, you don’t. You’ll leave another trail of destruction in your wake.”
Lily sniffed and raised her chin. Hodge didn’t know the first thing about fashion. Granted, she hadn’t quite gotten the hang of these hoops yet. But, when she did, the whole town would be impressed with her grace and style. And Mama would finally be happy.
With great care, she glided across the room, mindful not to knock over anything else. No use proving Hodge’s point. She halted at the counter and picked up a seed catalog. Maybe Mama need never know. Lily could order replacement seeds, or bulbs, or whatever these plants came from. Only, how long did they take to grow?
The black-clad stranger stood only a few feet away, studying a sheaf of paper in his hands. For some reason, his dimple showed. Lily made a pointed flip of the catalog page. If he thought she’d come over here to speak with him, he was sorely mistaken.
“You’ll need root cuttings to plant peonies.” The stranger turned his head and offered her a roguish smile.
Lily nodded once. They hadn’t been introduced, but a lady wasn’t rude without reason.
“I don’t think they’ll carry them in that catalog, though.”
“Where might I get some?” The question crossed her lips before she could frame it in her mind. Her hand jerked to her mouth, as if she could catch her words and snatch them back before they reached his ears.
“Special dealers, horticultural friends, botanical gardens.” The words rolled effortlessly off his tongue.
Lily blinked. He looked so…rough. What did this sort of man know about frivolities like flower gardens?
He pushed away from the counter and turned to face her fully, giving her an accurate picture of just how tall he was. At eye level with her was his neck, which, she now noticed, was encircled by a clerical collar. Her jaw dropped a notch. A clergyman? Mindful of Mama’s opinions on good breeding, she pressed her lips together again, but she couldn’t tear her eyes away from that stark white square.
Hodge bustled back in from the storage room. “Here you go, Miss Lily. Had to open a new crate.” He held out a bar wrapped in paper.
“Thank you.” Lily accepted it, then glanced at the stranger again. The way he looked at her made it feel as if the room were ten degrees warmer. Resisting the urge to press her palms against her cheeks, she fumbled with the clasp of her reticule. “How much do I owe you, Hodge?”
“A dime’ll do it.”
The preacher put on his hat, tipped it at her, and headed outside.
Lily found the coin and handed it over without bothering to quibble about the outrageous price.
“See you were talkin’ to Reverend Crew. He’s fresh from out East. Sent by some missionary society, think he said.”
Lily’s head jerked up. “Missiona—oh, no!” Snatching up her flowerpot and bar of soap, she whirled around and strode toward the door, heedless of the destruction she wrought in her pursuit of the stranger.
***
The smell hit him first. Pinkerton Detective Carter Forbes covered his mouth and nose with his handkerchief. His trusty mare, Friday, hesitated, and he patted her neck. “It’s okay, girl. Whatever caused this should be long gone by now.”
She whickered softly in response, then moved forward with cautious, delicate steps, her muscles bunched and ready to gallop if necessary.
Around the next bend in the trail was a covered wagon toppled on its side. Carter scanned the area. The horses that had been hitched to it were nowhere in sight. Enormous redwoods stood like sentinels protecting the smaller denizens of the forest. One wagon wheel had caught against a tree. Leaves covered the chassis and littered the torn canvas. Nothing moved.
Senses jangling, Carter dismounted and looped Friday’s reins over a nearby tree limb. The birds overhead ceased their chattering, and even the breeze stilled, as if the whole forest held its breath in anticipation. The rustle of his footsteps through dry leaves sounded remarkably loud in the hush. His fingers grazed the butt of his pistol.
He twitched aside the flap of the canvas. The stench redoubled nearly knocked him off his feet. He staggered back, letting the fabric fall closed again. Gagging, he sucked in a gulp of relatively pure air, but the foulness refused to be purged from his lungs. Over and over he inhaled, pressing his nose against his shirtsleeve in a futile attempt to mask the disgusting odor. At last, he clamped one hand over his mouth and, with the other, wrenched the canvas away with a terrible rip.
The dead man lay on his back. Carter swore under his breath. Why did he always give in to his infernal curiosity? A prudent man would’ve ridden on by. Minded his own business. But not Carter Forbes. Oh, no; he had to see. The quality made him a good Pinkerton, but it could be downright inconvenient.
He squatted and moved closer to the man. The scurry of tiny, clawed feet against the wood made him flinch. The corpse had lain exposed to the elements and scavengers long enough to make identifying the fellow impossible. Carter shook his head. The poor man hadn’t had anyone on hand to mourn his loss.
Sighing, he backed away. The least he could do was dig the man a decent grave. A shovel was still tied to the outside of the wagon. He grabbed it and began digging. The rhythmic thump of the blade biting into the earth sounded a primitive lament.
By how much would this set him back? He had made up a lot of time by riding hard. Still, Diamond probably had almost a day on him.
At last, the hole was large enough. Panting, Carter put aside the shovel and scrabbled out of the pit. He removed his coat and vest and slung them over Friday’s accommodating back. Now for the worst of it.
He ducked inside the wagon again. He couldn’t bring himself to touch the body’s decaying limbs, so he grabbed a fistful of pant fabric and another of jacket. The corpse was heavier than he’d expected it to be as he dragged it to the edge of the makeshift grave.
Lord, keep me from such an end. Carter rolled the corpse over so that it lay facedown. A small round hole penetrated the back of the jacket at about the level of the heart. The area around the hole was stained with blood, but death must have been nigh instantaneous.
Murder.
He stood and pushed his hat back from his forehead. Why hadn’t he passed on by when he’d had the chance? Blast. Maybe God was punishing him for leaving his sister alone for so long.
He maneuvered the body so that it was face-up again and then methodically searched the pockets. He needed to figure out who the victim was. Then he would ride to the nearest town and turn the matter over to the local sheriff.
When he reached his hand inside the inner breast pocket of the jacket, his fingers found something hard. He plucked out the item—a locket on a gold chain. Could it be? He opened the tiny silver clasp to reveal the serious-eyed gaze of a striking young woman.
Triumph tasted bitter—too tangled up with the scent of death. Could it be that he’d finally found Grand Diamond, the infamous murderer?
His search intensified, as though the evidence might begin to vanish if he wasted any time. He turned up a pocketknife, a handkerchief, a twist of string, a pencil stub, and a thin packet of letters. No gun. Carter frowned. A man wanted for murder wasn’t likely to travel unarmed. Whoever had killed him had probably stolen his weapon.
Carter sat down on an overturned bucket and took up the packet of letters. He pulled on the end of the faded satin ribbon that bound them together. The pages were fragile and scarred with soft, fuzzy creases, as if they’d been folded and unfolded with great frequency.
Grant, my love, I will wait for you in the conservatory at midnight.
More confirmation that the dead man was Diamond. After three years of near misses, Carter finally had his man. Now he could collect his bonus, return to Emily, and get her started on her new treatments.
Yet he didn’t feel any sense of accomplishment. His fingers caressed the worn paper. These letters would be enough proof for anybody. But it was wrong—all wrong. The body was damp, as if it had been out when it had rained two days ago. The letters weren’t. They were almost entirely dry.
And the body was too far decomposed to have been dead only a day or two. This man must have been killed at least a week ago.
Carter pinched the bridge of his nose. He’d been after Diamond for so long, and he wanted nothing more than to close the case and go home. But he couldn’t. Not yet. There was more to this thing than met the eye, and Carter had to see it through, no matter where it led.

Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck ~ Review and Litfuse Tour

Once Upon a PrinceMy Review: A delightful read that made me smile from ear to ear!

Susanna has waited 12 years to marry her high school sweetheart, but when he tells her that he's found someone new, Susanna find her perfectly planned life falling down around her. But might a handsome prince be able to save her? Literally?!

A fun read, right out of a fairy tale or a movie. I loved the playful banter between the characters, and how Nate had a strong sense of duty and a strong faith. And Susanna's family was tons of fun, even her Aunt Rue!

I loved how Ms. Hauck realistically brought a fairy tale to life in modern times. The characters came to life and I felt like I was settling in with my favorite chick flick :)

Overall, this was a wonderfully lovely tale, and I loved every minute of it! I would definitely recommend this book, I can't already think of a handful of people who would fall in love with it!

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

About Once Upon A Prince

The Royal Wedding Series Book One

Susanna Truitt never dreamed of a great romance or being treated like a princess---just to marry the man she has loved for twelve years. But life isn't going according to plan. When her high-school-sweetheart-turned-Marine-officer breaks up instead of proposing, Susanna scrambles to rebuild her life.
The last thing Prince Nathaniel expects to find on his American holiday to St. Simon's Island is the queen of his heart. A prince has duties, and his family's tense political situation has chosen his bride for him. When Prince Nathaniel comes to Susanna's aid under the fabled Lover's Oak, he is blindsided by love.
Their lives are worlds apart. He's a royal prince. She's a ordinary girl. But everything changes when Susanna receives an invitation to Nathaniel's coronation.
It's the ultimate choice. His kingdom or her heart? God's will or their own?

Purchase a copy:
http://ow.ly/kFb0Y

Watch the Trailer: 
Once Upon a Prince, Book Trailer - Rachel Hauck
Once Upon a Prince, Book Trailer - Rachel Hauck
Meet Rachel:

Rachel Hauck is the bestselling author of Carol Award winner "Sweet Caroline", and RITA Finalist "Love Starts With Elle", and of the critically acclaimed fiction collaboration with multi-platinum country artist Sara Evans, "The Songbird Novels". She lives in sunny, though sometimes hurricane plagued, central Florida with her husband and their ornery pets. Rachel earned a degree in Journalism from Ohio State University and is a huge Buckeyes football fan. She is the past President of American Christian Fiction Writers and now sits on the board as an Advisor.

Find out more about Rachel at: http://RachelHauck.com
 
Check out all of the other great stops on this tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/rhauck
Rachel Hauck is celebrating the release of Once Upon a Prince with a fun "Royal Wedding" Giveaway and connecting with readers at her May 28th Facebook Party.

PrinceHauck300

One "royal" winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 27th. Winner will be announced at the "Once Upon a Prince" Facebook Author Chat Party on May 28th. Connect with Rachel for an evening of book chat, wedding trivia, laughter, and more! Rachel will also be sharing a sneak peek at the next book in the series and giving away books and fun gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Once Upon a Prince and join Rachel on the evening of May 28th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP todayTell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 28th!

5.23.2013

Secrets Over Sweet Tea by Denise Hildreth Jones ~ Review

Secrets Over Sweet TeaMy Review: A mixture of Southern Charm, real-life tough problems and emotional struggles.

Grace and Zach are two very different people, both struggling in their marriages and everyday life, trying to keep up appearances.
But Scarlett Jo Newberry, the boisterous pastor's wife, knows just what Grace and Zach are missing, and serves as a guide to helping them break free of self imposed stereo-types.

It took a while for me to get used to how often the point-of-views changed, but after I did I settled into the pace of this sweet Southern read, that dealt with hard issues. We live in a day and age where everything has to "look perfect" no matter how emotionally or spiritually starved we are, everything has to look good. We can say that we don't care what they think, but saying it is much easier than actually believing it. And I think that describes the message this book promotes.

Scarlett Jo in her own way is one of the bravest fictional characters, and I loved how she helped Grace and Zach find their way. There was plenty of humor most of which came by way of Scarlett Jo and her wonderful family.

Overall, this was Southern fiction book that moved at a realistic pace, where you can see all the little things and how they added up. I liked how this book balanced the humor with tough emotional struggles and heartwarming elements.

I received this book from the author's publicist in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

 

5.22.2013

Flight of the Earls by Michael K. Reynolds ~ Review

Flight of the Earls (An Heirs of Ireland #1)My Review:

When the potato famine of 1846 hits Ireland, Clare and her brother Seamus head for America, along the way they are joined by Pierce who becomes a good friend. And in America they struggle to find their way, and face the fruit of their past, while starting over. They face war and tragedy, but also encountering love and hope, as their faith is tested.

Flight of the Earls was an interesting book, that was slow to start, but was filled with well done historical research that was well woven into the story. I really felt like I learned some new things when I read this book.

At times I felt that the pace of the book moved too slowly and at others it felt it was a bit rushed, which left me a tad baffled. Clare was an admirable heroine, and this book read like a coming of age tale for her, because she had to go out into the world and learn how to survive, and rescue her brother from trouble. Clare was very kind-hearted and loyal, and she had a careful sensibility about her.

Overall, this was an interesting book, that at times I struggled through. It would probably be best described as a historical coming of age tale, with meticulously researched details.

I received this e-copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thanks!

5.20.2013

The Face of the Earth by Deborah Raney ~ Litfuse Blog Tour & Review

The Face of the Earth: A NovelLucie's Review: A thought provoking, emotionally charged read, that shows how quickly everything can change, and even with our modern conveniences and gadgets, they aren't enough to give us the answers.

When Mitchell Brandon's wife of twenty years suddenly disappears, Mitchell is determined to do everything in his power to find her, and bring her home safe. Mitchell enlists the help of his next-door neighbor and his wife's best friend Shelley. But as things begin to look more and more hopeless, Shelley and Mitchell begin to have feelings for each other more than friendship...

A well written and thought provoking read that would make an excellent movie. I loved how it kept moving and for the subject matter it wasn't always dark or depressing, there were threads of hope. Ms. Raney is an expert, at this kind of book. I felt all of the pain and emotional heartbreak, yet there was hope, and so many questions to be answered that kept me glued to the pages.

I loved how well Ms. Raney portrayed the characters and their emotional states and struggles, and I think it demonstrated that in real life there is a lot of waiting. The endings, happy or otherwise rarely come quickly. This book also had such a strong message of truly trusting God and casting your cares on him, even when it seems pretty much impossible to do.

Overall, The Face of the Earth is a heart-wringing novel, that is subtle in some of the most brilliant ways, yet with such a strong beautiful message that can't help but shine through. I don't want to give away too much, but this book was amazing! I highly recommend this book!

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Deborah is celebrating with a fun "Date Night" Giveaway (win a $200 Visa Cash Card!) and an Author Chat Party on Facebook! {5/30}
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   One winner will receive:
  • A $200 Visa Cash Card (Use that to catch up with a loved one – your spouse, friend, sister, mom…whomever!)
  • The Face of the Earth by Deborah Raney
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 29th. Winner will be announced at the "The Face of the Earth" Facebook Author Chat Party on May 30th. Connect with Deborah for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Deborah will also be sharing a sneak peek of her next book and giving away books and fun gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of The Face of the Earth and join Deborah on the evening of May 30th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP todayTell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 30th!