Saturday, November 29, 2014

Fire Up the Romance this Holiday with @RobinLeeHatcher’s “Love Without End” Kindle Fire Giveaway!

Fire up the romance this holiday with Robin Lee Hatcher's latest offering in the King's Meadow Romance series, Love Without EndFor two single parents with bruised hearts, it’ll take more than a little courage to get back on the horse when it comes to love.

Celebrate love rising from the ashes of tragedy with Robin by entering her Kindle Fire giveaway.

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 One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • Love Without End and the rest of the King's Meadow Romance series from Robin Lee Hatcher
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 14th. Winner will be announced December 15th on Robin's blog.

lovewithoutend-enterbanner
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

Quilts of Love | SWEPT AWAY – Kindle Giveaway & “Merry Quilted” Facebook Party!

Don’t miss the newest Quilts of Love book, Swept Away by Laura V. Hilton and Cindy Loven. November’s QOL release is a spark of romance and fun just in time for the holidays.

Enter to win a Kindle HDX, and RSVP for the “Merry Quilted” Quilts of Love Facebook party on December 9th. 

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One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • Swept Away by Laura V. Hilton and Cindy Loven
  • Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll
  • Quilted by Christmas by Jodie Bailey
Enter today by clicking the button below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 9th. Winner will be announced during the "Merry Quilted" Christmas Facebook party on December 9th. RSVP today and connect with some of the Quilts of Love authors (Jodie Bailey, Laura V. Hilton, Cindy Loven, Cathy Elliott, and Gina Welborn) for a "merry" evening of book chat, Christmas traditions, prizes, and more!

qol-sweptaway-enterbanner
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}
 
RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on December 9th!

Friday, November 28, 2014

A Can’t-Miss Black Friday Deal from Adventures in Odyssey

oacbf 

Christmas time is nearly here, and the excitement is in the air. But rather than waking up before the sun on Black Friday or having to fight the massive crowds, you could get a special present for your kids or grandkids from Adventures in Odyssey: a subscription to their online Odyssey Adventure Club (OAC)! Offering 24/7 access to 25 years’ worth of Adventures in Odyssey episodes, the club is a safe and fun environment where children can explore, create and imagine, all while developing their faith and learning biblical truth.

When you sign up between 11/26 and 12/1 (promo code: BLKFRDAY) not only will you receive a special introductory price of $5.00 for your first month of club membership, you’ll also receive a special gift worth $50, including:
  • Imagination Station #12: Danger on A Silent Night book (mailed to you in December)
  • A Family Christmas Volume 1 of Timeless Classics on CD (mailed to you in December)
  • Radio Theatre: A Christmas Carol digital download
  • Radio Theatre: Traveling Home For Christmas digital download
  • 101 Surefire Ways To Strengthen Your Child’s Faith ebook
Membership provides:
  • 24/7 streaming access to more than 750 Adventures in Odyssey episodes (a $1500 retail value).
  • A new, members-only Adventures in Odyssey episode every month.
  • A subscription to Adventures in Odyssey Clubhouse Magazine delivered to your mailbox.
  • A web quest of video stories and online activities reflecting the biblical theme of that month's episode.
  • On-the-go access with the OAClub mobile iOS app.
  • Growing access to Odyssey books, a daily devotion, access to select Radio Theatre dramas and more.
A portion of each Odyssey Adventure Club membership benefits Focus on the Family partner relief organizations such as Operation Christmas Child and Compassion International, providing parents with an opportunity to teach children about the value of giving and serving others. 

This Christmas, give a present that will not only entertain throughout the year, but will provide a lifelong spiritual foundation.

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Unwrapping the Greatest Gift by Ann Voskamp (Review)


Unwrapping the Greatest Gift
by Ann Voskamp
Christian / Christmas / Family / Children
Available November 2014
Tyndale House Publishers
160 pages

About the Book
Based on the overwhelming success of The Greatest Gift, Ann Voskamp has expanded her presentation of the timeless Advent tradition of the Jesse Tree so families can celebrate together. Each day, families can read the provided Scripture passage (in connection with the original book), engage with a specially written devotion to help children of all ages understand the Advent theme for the day, and participate in suggested activities to apply the theme.

This special edition is beautifully illustrated. It can serve as a precious guide to help recapture the sacredness of the Advent season and to help the entire family understand and celebrate the epic pageantry of humankind from Adam to the Messiah.

Buy a copy  |  Read an excerpt  |  Find out what others think

My Thoughts
I am so excited about Unwrapping the Greatest Gift! This is an excellent resource that will help families of all ages and sizes discover the beauty of the Christmas season by diving into God's Word for 25 days of Advent. Each "day" includes a short Bible reading, a few pages of the story as written by Ann, thoughts to discuss, and family activities. There's also a code in the book that allows you to download a set of ornaments to create your own Jesse tree, or you can purchase a set through (in)courage.

Ann's lyrical writing style will help you think through God's most amazing gift in a fresh way. And the illustrations are absolutely gorgeous! You'll be tempted to tear them out and hang them on the wall! (Oh wait. Was that just me?!) We know that families come in all shapes and sizes, and you could easily adapt how you use this book to accommodate families with young children, teenagers, no children, or any other combination you can think of.

 Unwrapping the Greatest Gift is such a wonderful book. It's one I plan to give as a gift, and one I pray we will use year after year to make new memories each Christmas season. [5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Ann Voskamp is a farmer's wife, the home-educating mama to a half-dozen exuberant kids, and author of One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, a New York Times sixty-week bestseller. Named by Christianity Today as one of fifty women most shaping culture and the church today, she's a global advocate for needy children with Compassion International, a loser of library books, a stirrer of soup, a loud laugher, a kid snuggler, a Jesus lover and honestly, a bit of a mess. It's okay really. Grace is the most amazing of all. Her online journal, one of the top 10 most widely read Christian blogs online, is a relief of quiet vulnerability and an oasis of sacred, seeing God in the everyday ugly beautiful: www.aholyexperience.com

Ann Voskamp Online
Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter

A Robertson Family Christmas by Kay Robertson & Travis Thrasher (Review + Giveaway)

A Robertson Family Christmas
by Kay Robertson & Travis Thrasher
Christian Fiction / Contemporary
Available October 2014
Tyndale House Publishers
320 pages



About the Book
Hunter Clarke wanted one thing for Christmas: to spend it with his dad and his brother. He misses being included in any guy trips since his parents divorced and he went to live with his mom. So he’s less than happy when his mother tells him that he won a contest to spend Christmas in West Monroe, Louisiana, with a family named the Robertsons. For some reason, they’re supposed to be a big deal. How did he win a contest he didn’t enter? Besides, he’s never heard of them and sure doesn’t want to spend Christmas in a swamp with a bunch of strangers.

Korie Robertson is excited to open her heart and home to Hunter and show him what the Christmas season looks like for the Robertson family. And like it or not, Hunter experiences it firsthand. From duck-hunting disasters with the bearded guys, to learning to cook with Miss Kay, Hunter quickly discovers what it’s like to live with this boisterous, yet loving family. Putting on his headphones and ignoring them is not an option. Before long, Hunter begins to let his guard down. But with Christmas and the end of his trip fast approaching, will it be too little, too late? Or will Hunter be open to the greatest gift of all?

Buy a copy  |  Read an excerpt  |  Find out what others think
 
Watch an inteview with Miss Kay and John Luke Robertson about their new books here.

My Thoughts
It's a pretty well-established fact that I'm a huge fan of all things Duck Dynasty. A Robertson Family Christmas is a bit different from the non-fiction books I've read by the various family members, but I enjoyed it just the same.

This fictional Christmas story is a quick, fun, Christmas read. The story is sweet, yet meaningful. And I felt more like I was watching several episodes of the show than reading a book. The writing was so realistic that I could hear the voices of the family members in my head as I read the dialogue. That's hard to pull off, but the authors were successful!

I recommend A Robertson Family Christmas to readers of all ages! Grab a copy and get in the Christmas spirit! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Giveaway
One person will win a hardback copy of A Robertson Family Christmas. Open to US residents only. Giveaway ends December 7. Enter through the Rafflecopter widget below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 
*** All participants must be 18 years or older. The winner will be contacted via email. Once contacted the winner has 72 hours to respond with the required information. If the winner does not respond within the timeframe specified, another winner will be chosen. I am not responsible for shipping mishaps. Void where prohibited. ***

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Magnolia Market by Judie Christie (Review)

Magnolia Market
by Judie Christie
Trumpet and Vine series, Book 2
Christian Fiction / Contemporary
Available September 2014
Zondervan
342 pages



About the Book
The self-help books lied: fresh starts aren’t nearly as glamorous as they appear. And love isn’t any easier the second time around.

Avery Broussard was savoring her long-dormant optimism. It was the first anniversary of her husband’s death, and she was finally going to buy the dress boutique from her former mother-in-law. After a year of saving, the deal was nearly done. Avery was about to get her life back.

But every deal in Samford, Louisiana, can change at the whim of a Broussard.

After being unceremoniously ejected from the very boutique she planned to buy—the boutique she herself had rescued from ruin—she becomes a woman without a future . . . suddenly at war with her late husband’s family.

When carpenter T. J. Aillet begins working for the Broussards doing manual labor, he overhears enough to know that Avery is being victimized. Soon enough, T. J. is lassoed into the squabble by his family connections, his good heart . . . and the undeniable attraction he feels toward Avery.

But the Aillets are no strangers to Samford society—and T. J. knows what happens when you cross the Broussards. Could these two misfits ever make a start together? Or will the pressures of Samford society pull them apart before they even get a chance to try?

My Thoughts
I'm a fan of anything southern (being from the South and all!) and Magnolia Market is a great southern read. While it doesn't highlight the best the south has to offer (initially, at least), it does give readers a glimpse into what "old southern money" is all about.

I liked Avery right away and found myself constantly frustrated by the things that kept happening to her. It was all just so unfair! But, alas, life is not fair ... and neither is Avery's. However, for every bad thing that is done TO her, a new friend comes along and helps her—even if it's in a totally unexpected way. I thought it was a great lesson in accepting help graciously and knowing we weren't intended to go through life on our own.

The other characters in town were a great addition to the book and helped round out the story. From eccentric and grumpy to rich and snooty to kind and generous and everything in between, we get a little bit of everything.

The middle of the book seemed to lag a bit for me, but otherwise, I truly enjoyed this book! I'm excited to read more of the Trumpet & Vine series! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Judy Christie writes fiction with a Louisiana flavor. She is the author of the Green series of novels including Gone to Green. A fan of primitive antiques and porch swings, she blogs from her green kitchen couch at www.judychristie.com. She and her husband live in northern Louisiana.

How a Star Falls by Amber Stokes (Blog Tour + Review + Giveaway)

How a Star Falls
by Amber Stokes
Fiction / Contemporary / New Adult / Romance
Available November 2014
67 pages

About the Book
Sweet NA Contemporary Romance Novella

How does a star fall?

Quickly. Completely. Unexpectedly.



Derrick Knolane escapes to Trinidad Head most evenings, avoiding his apartment and planning for the day he'll break free of Humboldt County. Working in a music store might be fine for a while, but it's far from the goal he had in mind when he got his college degree. Not to mention the fact that his roommate is a jerk and his family won't stop trying to run his life.



Then Brielle falls into his world.



She claims to be a star. Not from Hollywood, but from heaven. He thinks she's crazy. Certainly delusional. Yet, he can't just leave her alone on the cliffs. So he takes her home.



And his whole world falls apart.



A heartfelt and fanciful contemporary romance novella, How a Star Falls explores the uncertain season of new adulthood and shows that sometimes the worst inconveniences make for the best miracles of all.

Buy a copy  |  Behind the scenes  |  Find out what others think

My Thoughts
I'm happy to see another book from Amber Stokes, and I have to say that How a Star Falls was a delightful read. Amber's previous books have been western historicals, and I was impressed that she managed to bring all of the things I loved about those books into a contemporary new adult story.

The story is very sweet and a bit mysterious. Derrick is an all-around nice guy who steps out of his comfort zone to befriend Brielle. I wasn't sure what to make of Brielle at first, but her sweet nature quickly overcame any reservations I had when I couldn't figure out what her "deal" was. :) Derrick's family really helped round out the story.

Amber did a wonderful job bringing the Pacific Northwest to life in this story. It's easy to tell that she loves the part of the country she calls home, and by the end, I was thinking my next vacation should be to Oregon.

How a Star Falls is another wonderful read, and I definitely recommend grabbing a copy at your earliest convenience! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Amber Stokes works as a content writer (marketing services) for a Christian publisher. On the side, she self-publishes inspirational fiction depicting the seasons of life and love. Her passion for books compelled her to earn a bachelor's degree in English and to run her own freelance editing and publicity business for over a year. Happily, this new chapter of her career takes place in the Pacific Northwest—a part of the world she's always considered home. Learn more about Amber’s books at www.SeasonsofaStory.blogspot.com.

Amber Stokes Online
Website  |  Blog  |  Twitter  |  Pinterest  |  Google+  |  Goodreads

Endorsements
"Perfect for when you want a whimsical, heartwarming read, How a Star Falls is more than an inspirational romance...it's a wink and a smile."
- Joanne Bischof, award winning author of This Quiet Sky 



"Amber Stokes has perfectly expressed the challenges of twenty-something life in her sweet contemporary new adult novella, How a Star Falls. Brielle and Derrick's journey reminds us all of the search to find ourselves in the midst of young adulthood. Their story is charming and wistful with emotions we can all relate to experiencing at some point in our lives. It is a tale about letting go in order to find yourself once again while never losing the importance of who you are...and who you can be."
- Cerella Sechrist, author of Gentle Persuasion and The Paris Connection



"Though not typically a reader of contemporary fiction, I found How a Star Falls to be a wonderfully told story of both sweet romance and coming to terms with the fact that even though life doesn't always turn out exactly as we dreamed it would, even our undesirable circumstances can lead to a bright future."
- Jaye L. Knight, author of Ilyon Chronicles

Giveaway
Share in the excitement of Amber’s new release with a special starry giveaway! You can enter to win one of three prize packs using the Rafflecopter form below. Open to U.S. residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Monday, November 24, 2014

Love at Mistletoe Inn by Cindy Kirk (Review)

Love at Mistletoe Inn
by Cindy Kirk
A Year of Weddings Novella (2), Book 1
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available November 2014
Zondervan
112 pages



About the Book
They've helped orchestrate the perfect day for countless couples. Now twelve new couples will find themselves in the wedding spotlight in the second Year of Weddings novella collection.

An owner of a Victorian inn and charming rustic barn is used to creating the perfect setting for other couples' nuptials. But when she falls head over heels for the new man in her life, will she be prepared to walk down that aisle?

My Thoughts
I am so thrilled that Zondervan has chosen to continue the "Year of Weddings" series through 2015! I thoroughly enjoyed reading a new novella each month, and, while I didn't fall in love with every one, I definitely enjoyed the majority of them! Unfortunately, the second year of novellas is off to a rocky start, in my opinion. 

Plot: It seemed that the plot alternated between being extremely rushed and dragging. I never felt that the author found a steady pace for the events taking place. Additionally, the story was fairly boring. With the exception of one moment (to be addressed later), nothing really surprised me, and I was never left wondering what might happen next. Verna's request for help planning a wedding for an unknown bride and groom felt contrived and over-the-top. I realize that authors face great challenges when trying to develop an engaging plot in so few pages, but this still fell below my expectations for novellas.

Characters: Neither of the main characters were very likeable. Hope was whiny and immature. I wanted to like John, but he was portrayed as being pushy a few times, which left me wanting a true "hero" for this story. I thought perhaps they would both grow and mature, but it didn't really feel like they did.

Christian Content: Considering this is portrayed as a Christian book, I was disappointed by how Christianity was portrayed in this book. In particular, I was bothered by the fact that Hope kept referring to these little "mantras" to get her through situations (i.e., God helps those who help themselves.) While they may be catchy sayings, these sayings were simply not founded on biblical principles. I was waiting for another John or Verna (or even the pastor!) to drive home some solid biblical truths with Hope—perhaps showing her that true faith is founded on God's Word—but that never happened. John did offer a little more hope, as it seemed that his relationship with God had grown in the years prior to the book's opening scene. While I don't expect strong Christian themes in every "Christian" book I read, I do expect books published by a Christian publisher to portray Christian principles accurately.

Romantic Content: *****SPOILER*****I don't know how to discuss this last point without giving away some of the details of the story, so I'm not even going to try. Read ahead at your own risk. The most shocking and disappointing portion of this book had to do with how s3x was portrayed. Essentially, John and Hope elope when they are 18. However, Hope freaks out just after the ceremony conducted by an internet-ordained "minister" and they decide to simply not file the paperwork. Fast forward 10 years, and Hope learns they are—surprise!—married anyway. When John returns home after being away for 10 years, Hope tells him they are still married, says she doesn't know what to do (because she is dating another man), cries on his shoulder. The very next sentence (at the beginning of the next chapter) references Hope getting out of John's bed. WHAT?!?! I thought surely I had misunderstood, but, no, Hope and John apparently can't contain themselves after 10 years apart and have s3x. Despite not knowing they are married even 10 minutes before and despite Hope being in a relationship with another man, they still have s3x. After having s3x, Hope immediately goes to an attorney's office to find out how to annul the marriage. Hope later decides to try to make the marriage work, but says she won't say "I love you" or wear her wedding ring until she can know for sure this will work. Hello??? Did she not just have s3x with her "husband"? But now she doesn't know if it's going to work out? I'm sorry, but this put a really bad taste in my mouth. Yes, they were technically married, but there were so many other circumstances surrounding this revelation that I felt like this was totally uncalled for. It really felt out of place and not appropriate for a Christian book.*****END SPOILER*****

Overall, Love at Mistletoe Inn was a disappointing read for me. I'll definitely give other books in the series a shot, but I recommend skipping this one. [2 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Cindy Kirk is a lifelong Nebraska resident who started writing after taking a class at a local community college. But her interest in the written word started years before when she was in her teens. At sixteen she wrote in her diary, “I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t be a writer.”

Not until her daughter was heading off to college did Cindy return to her first love---writing. Unlike some writers, Cindy wasn’t interested in newspaper or magazine articles, short stories or poetry. When she decided to start writing, she jumped feet first into book length fiction. She loves reading and writing romance because she believes in the power of love and in happily ever after. An incurable romantic, Cindy loves seeing her characters grow and learn from their mistakes and, in the process, achieve a happy ending.

Someone once told Cindy that to know a writer you just have to read what she's written; she hopes that once you read her books you can tell she is an eternal optimist, one who truly believes in the power of love. She invites you to kick off your shoes, pick up one of her books and get to know her.

Cindy and her high school sweetheart husband live on an acreage with two dogs and two cats—Oreo—a friendly feline who loves to sit next to the computer and supervise her writing and Leo, a white devil with a raccoon-like tail.

Revolutionary by Krista McGee (Review)

Revolutionary
by Krista McGee
Anomaly series, Book 3
Christian Fiction / YA / Dystopian
Available July 2014
Thomas Nelson
320 pages



About the Book
All her life Thalli thought she was an anomaly. Now she must use her gifts to fulfill the role she was called to play: Revolutionary.
 
Back in the underground State against her will, Thalli is no longer the anomaly she was before. She has proven herself to be a powerful leader aboveground and returns with information that Dr. Loudin needs to complete his plan of uniting the world under one leader: himself. But he, too, has information. A secret he has kept from Thalli her entire life. A secret that, once revealed, changes everything about the person Thalli thought she was.
 
Hoping to help Thalli rise up against the Scientists, both Berk and Alex join her underground, but their presence only brings more trouble for her. Now Dr. Loudin knows just the leverage to use on his captive, and she is forced to choose between the two of them. Is her first love her true love? Or does Alex ultimately claim her heart?
 
Unsure of everything around her, including her own identity, Thalli doesn’t know where to turn. She knows she needs the Designer, but he seems further away than ever. What she does know, though, is that if she doesn’t do something to stop Loudin, the fragile world aboveground will be lost once and for all.

My Thoughts
I had high hopes for this book as I've thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in this trilogy. (Yes, you definitely need to read these in order!) For some reason, I wasn't able to get into this book the way I would have liked. I just couldn't really stay invested in the story. I ended up starting and stopping a few times along the way. BUT it was a good read, and I was glad to get resolution for the series after some serious cliffhangers in the first two books! Krista McGee is a talented author, and I'm glad to see a dystopian series with a Christian worldview available for readers (especially teens). This is a very clean series that consistently points to Christ. 

Despite my somewhat mixed thoughts on this final book, I still definitely recommend this series as a whole. It might help to read the books a little more closely together now that they're all available. Particularly if you've enjoyed other dystopian series like The Hunger Games or Divergent, I think you'll enjoy the Anomaly series! [3 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Krista McGee’s passion to see teens excited about serving God is a driving force behind her novels. Ever since college when she spent a summer working at a youth camp, McGee knew she wanted to invest in teenagers. Since then she’s been involved in a variety of youth ministries and currently teaches at a Christian school in Tampa, FL.

McGee broke into the writing world during her time in Spain. A friend encouraged her to submit an article to a Christian girls’ magazine, and it got published. Once her family moved back to Tampa, she got the idea for her first novel, First Date, a modern take of the story of Esther. Her subsequent books, Starring Me and Right Where I Belong, are based on Rebekah and Ruth.

When Krista McGee isn’t living in fictional worlds of her own creation, she spends her days as a wife, mom, teacher and coffee snob.

Krista McGee Online

Sunday, November 23, 2014

Where Treetops Glisten (Blog Tour + Review)

Where Treetops Glisten
by Cara Putman, Sarah Sundin, Tricia Goyer
Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance
Available September 2014
Waterbrook Multnomah
368 pages



About the Book
The crunch of newly fallen snow, the weight of wartime

Siblings forging new paths and finding love in three stories, filled with the wonder of Christmas

Turn back the clock to a different time, listen to Bing Crosby sing of sleigh bells in the snow, as the realities of America’s involvement in the Second World War change the lives of the Turner family in Lafayette, Indiana.

In Cara Putman’s White Christmas, Abigail Turner is holding down the Home Front as a college student and a part-time employee at a one-of-a-kind candy shop. Loss of a beau to the war has Abigail skittish about romantic entanglements—until a hard-working young man with a serious problem needs her help.

Abigail’s brother Pete is a fighter pilot hero returned from the European Theater in Sarah Sundin’s I’ll Be Home for Christmas, trying to recapture the hope and peace his time at war has eroded. But when he encounters a precocious little girl in need of Pete’s friendship, can he convince her widowed mother that he’s no longer the bully she once knew?

In Tricia Goyer’s Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Meredith Turner, “Merry” to those who know her best, is using her skills as a combat nurse on the frontline in the Netherlands. Halfway around the world from home, Merry never expects to face her deepest betrayal head on, but that’s precisely what God has in mind to redeem her broken heart.

The Turner family believes in God’s providence during such a tumultuous time. Can they absorb the miracle of Christ’s birth and His plan for a future?

My Thoughts
Three of my favorite authors. Christmas stories. About siblings. Set during World War II. All of this combines for an amazing collection of stories in Where Treetops Glisten. Typically in collections/ anthologies, the stories are either independent or are loosely connected. I loved how these three stories are more closely tied together.

All three of these stories were amazing and well-executed! The romance thread is strong, which I love. And the historical aspects provided a balance to the primary relationship in each novella. I don't know that I can choose one favorite, so I'll just encourage you to read all three for yourself!  [5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.


An October Bride by Katie Ganshert (Review)

An October Bride
by Katie Ganshert
A Year of Weddings Novella
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available September 2014
Zondervan



About the Book
She wants to make her father's dream come true. She doesn't realize her own dream has been in front of her the whole time.

Emma Tate isn't a risk taker, so everyone in her small Midwest town is surprised when she suddenly becomes engaged to lifelong friend Jake Sawyer. No one but Jake and Emma know the true reason they're getting married-so Emma's dying father can walk her down the aisle.

While Jake and Emma plan an autumn wedding together, it becomes clear that their agreement has a few complications-the biggest being their true feelings for each other.

In this novella by award-winning author Katie Ganshert, a young woman must reconcile her dying father's dreams with her own dreams for love and for her future.

My Thoughts
Katie Ganshert has quickly risen to "favorite author" status, and An October Bride is another wonderful story by this talented author. She somehow manages to tell a very full and complete story in a limited number of pages and does it very well. Jake and Emma's story is sweet and emotional from the very start. As Emma is dealing with her father's declining health, Jake is the perfect friend and support she needs. Of course, things don't go smoothly the entire time, so there are a few dips and turns that are sure to keep you flipping pages (or swiping across your e-reader screen!). Given how much I loved the story, I was sad to see it end and would love to read more about these characters! I highly recommend this wonderful romance ... one of my favorites in the series!!  [5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from Zondervan's BookLook Bloggers program in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Christy Award finalist and Carol Award winner, Katie Ganshert, graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison with a degree in education, and worked as a fifth grade teacher for several years before staying home to write full-time. She was born and raised in the Midwest, where she lives with her husband, their young son, and their goofy black lab, Bubba. When she’s not busy writing or playing or reading or snuggling, she is obsessing over the paperwork and the waiting that comes with adoption. You can learn more about Katie and her books by visiting her website or author Facebook page.

A September Bride by Kathryn Springer (Review)

A September Bride
by Kathryn Springer
A Year of Weddings Novella
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available August 2014
Zondervan



About the Book
Annie's always wanted a home and a family. But will pretending to be a bride get her closer to her dreams?

All Annie Price has ever wanted is a place to call home. Growing up in the foster care system, that dream seemed far away, but now Annie's dream may be coming true. A friend she met in an online book group wants to retire and has offered Annie a fresh start managing her little bookstore. Believing the opportunity is an answer to prayer, Annie packs her suitcase and moves to Red Leaf, Wisconsin.

The residents of Red Leaf welcome Annie into the fold . . . everyone except the bookstore owner's son, Jesse Kent. But Annie refuses to let the handsome deputy keep her from embracing her new home with open arms. She even volunteers to help the local historical society refurbish an old church and agrees to be the "bride" for a special reenactment celebrating the museum's open house.

Jesse Kent can't believe his mother has handed the keys to her business over to a woman she met on the Internet. Annie's beautiful, of course, and smart as a whip, but what do they really know about her, anyway? What if she's come to their town just for his mother's money? The only way to see if his suspicions about Annie Price are true is to keep a close eye on her-even if it means he has to marry her! Planning their mock wedding will give him the chance to uncover Annie's motive for moving to town. But as the day of the wedding approaches and secrets come to light, Jesse must face the truth. He wants Annie to be his September bride . . . for real.

My Thoughts
A September Bride is another enjoyable installment in the Year of Weddings series. Kathryn Springer is a new-to-me author, and I really enjoyed her writing style. She delivered a sweet romance in a lovely small town and even provided a plot that's a little different than the typical romance story (which can feel overdone at times). I loved all the tension between the two main characters at the beginning. It seemed that the town itself was possibly the best part of the story, and I would love to read more books set in Red Leaf! With all the good, my only complaint is that the novella was just a little too short and wrapped up really quickly. Overall, though, I'm a fan and I highly recommend! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Zondervan's BookLook Bloggers program in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Kathryn Springer, winner of the 2009 ACFW Carol Award (Family Treasures), grew up in a small town in northern Wisconsin, where her parents published a weekly newspaper. As a child, she spent many hours sitting at her mother’s typewriter, plunking out stories, and credits her parents for instilling in her a love of books – which eventually turned into a desire to tell stories of her own. After a number of busy years, when she married her college sweetheart and became a stay-at-home mom, Kathryn rediscovered her love for writing. An unexpected snow day from school became the inspiration for a short story, which she submitted to Brio magazine. She went on to publish over a dozen more short stories for Brio, but it wasn’t until her youngest child started school that she decided to pursue her dream to write a novel. In August 2004, her Love Inspired® debut novel, Tested by Fire, was published. Encouraging women in their faith journey is the reason Kathryn loves to write inspirational fiction. She hosts a women’s Bible study in her home and volunteers in a local MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) ministry. When she isn’t at the computer, you’ll find her curled up with a good book, spending time with family and friends or walking on the trails near her country home.

Friday, November 21, 2014

Look Inside the Time of Jesus (Blog Tour)

Look Inside the Time of Jesus
Written by Lois Rock; Illustrated by Lorenza Orlandi

About the Book
A fascinating flap book full of bustling scenes from the time of Jesus that will keep inquiring young minds busy. Detailed depictions of Bible history are enhanced by a glimpse behind the scenes with flaps to lift on every page. Brief text explains the setting of the picture, and references events and stories from Jesus’ life. The captivating pictures and to-the-point text make this book especially useful for encouraging reluctant readers. The book covers the first Christmas, a synagogue and carpenter’s workshop in Nazareth, fishing in Capernaum, farming and shepherding in the hills of Galilee, homes of the wealthy and everyday people, the temple in Jerusalem, the way of the cross, and the first Easter.

My Thoughts
Not sure I would recommend this book. While the idea seems good—to give young readers an idea of what life during the time of Jesus would have been like—I didn't think it was executed very well. There is very little text on each page to explain what you're looking at. I felt like it would have been more helpful to have single words over pictures (more like a beginner book ... think Richard Scarry). Multiple stories from the Bible were referenced on the same two-page spread, and I wasn't sure of the purpose. It seemed confusing to me as an adult ... almost as though the book was trying to say that those stories happened simultaneously when they did not. I would give this book a pass.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Sweet & Clean Romance Collection

Sweet and Clean Romance Collection  
Ok clean romance lovers these books are for you!! Trifecta Books is excited to announce their new line of short contemporary romance novels for e-book. The Sweet and Clean Romance Collection will melt your heart and sweep you off your feet. There are currently four books out with many more titles coming soon.

   Hearts in Harmony and Something Blue
And Something Blue
And Something Blue 
by Paige Timothy (Main Street Merchants #1) 

Bridal consultant Laurie Fletcher spends her days helping others prepare for the most special day of their lives. Will true love ever come her way, or is she doomed to watch others get their happily ever after? 

For Love or Money
For Love And Money 
by Paige Timothy (Main Street Merchants #2) 

Cynical Morgan has just about decided that no one could possibly fall in love with her - all the good guys want perfect girls, and she's anything but perfect. But then along comes the guy who falls head-over-heels in love with her just as she is and helps her find the bright side of life again. 

Hearts in Harmony
Hearts in Harmony 
by Raine Gillespie (Love Notes #1) 

Elahna Nezario gave up her musical dreams to help run the Queen of Hearts, her mother’s chocolate shop, after her sister’s sudden death. After an unfortunate run-in with Elahna’s childhood crush, owner of the Dolce Theater, not only do her dreams surge back to life, but so does her heart.
Waltzing on Wheels
Waltzing on Wheels 
by Raine Gillespie (Love Notes #2) 

Meredith Aaron lost all hope for love after a car accident put her in a wheelchair. Who would want her, broken as she is? After her brother tells her to save a dance for him at his wedding, she decides to somehow learn how to dance on the only legs she has left—her wheels.
 
Blog Tour Giveaway 
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash 
Ends 11/20/14 

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Saturday, November 8, 2014

Christmas in Snow Valley (Blog Tour + Review)

Christmas in Snow Valley (1)

  Christmas in Snow Valley    

Christmas in Snow Valley
 Christmas in Snow Valley is packed with six wonderful Christmas novellas sure to bring romance into your holiday season.

Snow Valley, Montana, is a small community with the tradition of doing Christmas big. Festivities begin with tree lighting in the town square the day after Thanksgiving and continue until the culminating romantic Christmas Ball. From the Polar Express to a Winter Carnival, there’s something for every wonder-filled child—and every couple who’s in love—or about to be.  

An Unexpected Kiss by Cindy Roland Anderson Lucy Phillips doesn’t want to spend her Christmas vacation dodging her ex-boyfriend, so when he turns up at the airport to give her a ride home, Lucy panics and asks a complete stranger to kiss her. Although the kiss is incredible, Lucy never expects to see the guy again. Is it bad luck or destiny when Lucy comes down with a sore throat and the new doctor in Snow Valley is none other than the guy she kissed at the airport?

 Feels Like Love by Jeanette Lewis Christmas in Snow Valley is the perfect way for April Winston to introduce her city slicker fiancé, Scott Mecham, to life on a farm. If only Wade Hadley, hometown boy and high school sweetheart, will cooperate! But Wade has no intention of letting April go without a fight. This Christmas, Wade is determined to overcome their painful past and show April that she already has what she’s been seeking all along.  

Full Court Devotion by Cami Checketts Kazlyn is too busy with her schooling and future plans to enjoy life, let alone fall in love with a man who has heartbreak written all over him. Tyrese Hamilton, a college basketball star and major heartthrob, is intrigued when Kazlyn doesn't pursue him or even seem interested. Ty's career is in jeopardy, and he needs a miracle and Kazlyn to save him.  

The Christmas Eve Kiss by Taylor Hart When Molly O’Hare gets a prediction that she will kiss her true love on Christmas Eve, she thinks it’s utterly ridiculous. But when she gets teamed up with Kevin Snow, aka her ex-boyfriend, to decorate a Christmas tree, things start to change. Too bad getting over the past is hard and seeing him kiss another girl is even harder. Now Molly is left with a choice—run away from home and heartbreak or let Christmas work out a miracle all of its own.  

Risking it all for Love by Kimberley Montpetit Succumbing to family pressure, Jessica Mason reluctantly comes home for Christmas. Ever since her high school boyfriend's death from a car accident three years earlier, Jessica and religion have not been compatible. So, when she visits Michael’s grave, she's surprised to meet the handsome James Douglas, Pastor John’s nephew, who’s studying for the ministry. James can not only dish back Jessica’s finely-tuned sarcasm but understands grief all too well, turning Jessica’s world upside down. Is she ready to take another risk on love?  

Blue Christmas by Lucy McConnell As head of Snow Valley hospital's fundraising effort, Paisley Hackett barely has time to organize the craft show, cookie decorating party, and the annual Christmas Ball. What she doesn't have time for is falling in love with Clay Jett, the incredibly handsome bass player who sweeps into town. She's been burned by a tourist romance before and, with everything going on, Paisley will have to work overtime to protect her heart from Clay and his swoon-worthy
ballads.

 Christmas in Snow valley Banner
  add to goodreads new   

My Thoughts
What a cute collection of Christmas stories! With temperatures still allowing me to wear short sleeves right now, I was glad to read a book (or six!) set in snowy Montana. Snow Valley sounds like my kind of place ... with Christmas cheer bursting forth at every turn! I liked how the authors all incorporated some of the same aspects of the town, while also giving us a little something extra.

Fans of Christmas-time romance stories will surely enjoy this collection!

I received a free copy of this book from the authors in exchange for my fair and honest review.


Blog Tour Giveaway 
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 11/20/14
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway   

Thursday, November 6, 2014

The Match Maker by Karey White (Blog Tour + Review)


The Match Maker
by Karey White
The Husband Maker series, Book 2
Available November 2014
222 pages

About the Book
(Summary contains spoilers if you have not yet read book #1 The Husband Maker)

It’s been six months since Charlotte and Kyle broke up, and the Husband Maker strikes again. Kyle is officially engaged, while Charlotte is still nursing a broken heart.

In an effort to get Charlotte out of her rut, she and her best friend decide it’s time for some good old-fashioned matchmaking. While Aleena arranges for Charlotte to meet up with a handsome Scottish tourist, Charlotte gets her two best friends together. But when sparks start to fly between Aleena and Angus, Charlotte is left feeling more alone that ever–at least until the charming Scotsman becomes more than just a safe, rebound guy and teaches her that maybe, just maybe, she can dare to open her heart again.

Buy a copy  |  Find out what others think



My Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed The Match Maker, which is the second in a trilogy. The book picked up right where we left off in the last one, and I was excited to see what would happen to Charlotte next. 

Perhaps because I'm in the throes of planning a vacation, I loved getting to "go" to Scotland through this novel. The author really brought the scenery to life, and Scotland is now firmly on my travel wish list.

This was another story where I was a bit torn about how I wanted things to go for Charlotte and some of the other characters, but I thought the author handled this tension well. She did a great job of building up two options but let me down easy when it was time to make a choice. 

***** POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT ******) And again, Charlotte is left in a difficult spot with no real closure to her story. As a result, I'm terribly anxious to read the final book in this series and make sure Charlotte gets some sort of happy ending. ***** END SPOILER ALERT *****

I thought this was a great novel. It's fairly light but still has a few gut-wrenching moments. I'm a huge fan of this author, and I highly recommend this series! [4.5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Karey White grew up in Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and Missouri. She attended Ricks College and Brigham Young University. Her first novel, Gifted, was a Whitney Award Finalist.

She loves to travel, read, bake treats, and spend time with family and friends. She and her husband are the parents of four great children. She teaches summer creative writing courses to young people and is currently working on her next book.


Karey White Online
Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter

Giveaway
As part of the blog tour, there's a giveaway! The prize? A $75 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash! Ends November 23. Enter through the Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
*** Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Inspired Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.  ***


Saturday, November 1, 2014

The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky (Blog Tour + Review)

The Daughter of Highland Hall
by Carrie Turansky
Edwardian Brides series, Book 2
Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance
Available October 2014
WaterBrook Multnomah
336 pages



About the Book
What if the title, the estate, the life of security and splendor… what if it isn’t enough?

Strong-willed and beautiful, debutante Katherine Ramsey feels ready to take the London social season by storm, and she must. Her family estate, Highland Hall, has been passed to older male cousin Sir William Ramsey, and her only means of securing her future is to make a strong debut and find a proper husband. With her all-knowing and meddling aunt as a guide, Katherine is certain to attract suitors at the lavish gatherings, sparkling with Great Britain’s elite.

When a shocking family scandal sidelines Katherine, forcing her out of the social spotlight, she keeps a low profile, volunteering with the poor in London’s East End. Here Katherine feels free from her predictable future, and even more so as a friendship with medical student Jonathan Foster deepens and her faith in God grows. But when Katherine is courted anew by a man of wealth and position, dreams of the life she always thought she wanted surface again. Torn between tradition and the stirrings in her heart for a different path, she must decide whom she can trust and love—and if she will choose a life serving others over one where she is served.

My Thoughts
I'm a huge fan of historical stories set in the late-1800s or early 1900s. I'm never truly sure if that's Gilded Age, Edwardian period, Regency, or what, but I love reading about those periods because it's so different from today. I enjoyed reading Carrie Turansky's first novel in the Edwardian Brides series earlier this year and was excited to pick up the story with The Daughter of Highland Hall

I loved reading about Katherine's debut season. The idea of being presented into society just fascinates me, and I felt like I learned a lot from this novel. She's a very likeable character, and it was interesting to see how she handled this time in her life. 

There's a lot going on in this book, with multiple story lines and points of view. At times, I wanted to stick with one thing to see how it would go, but this really did help round out the book. The faith message was strong in this book, and I thoroughly enjoyed how these truths came through so clearly through the telling of the story.

Overall, I really enjoyed The Daughter of Highland Hall. It's a wonderful period romance that I definitely recommend!

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of nearly a dozen novels and novellas, including Snowflake Sweethearts and Along Came Love. She has won the ACFW Carol Award, the Crystal Globe Award and the International Digital Award. She lives in central New Jersey with her husband, Scott, who is a pastor, counselor and the author of several parenting books.

Carrie Turansky Online
Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Pinterest

Book Blast & Giveaway | The Match Maker by Karey White


The Match Maker
by Karey White
The Husband Maker series, Book 2
Available November 2014
222 pages

About the Book
(Summary contains spoilers if you have not yet read book #1 The Husband Maker)

It’s been six months since Charlotte and Kyle broke up, and the Husband Maker strikes again. Kyle is officially engaged, while Charlotte is still nursing a broken heart.

In an effort to get Charlotte out of her rut, she and her best friend decide it’s time for some good old-fashioned matchmaking. While Aleena arranges for Charlotte to meet up with a handsome Scottish tourist, Charlotte gets her two best friends together. But when sparks start to fly between Aleena and Angus, Charlotte is left feeling more alone that ever–at least until the charming Scotsman becomes more than just a safe, rebound guy and teaches her that maybe, just maybe, she can dare to open her heart again.

Buy a copy  |  Find out what others think


About the Author
Karey White grew up in Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and Missouri. She attended Ricks College and Brigham Young University. Her first novel, Gifted, was a Whitney Award Finalist.

She loves to travel, read, bake treats, and spend time with family and friends. She and her husband are the parents of four great children. She teaches summer creative writing courses to young people and is currently working on her next book.


Karey White Online
Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter

Giveaway
As part of the blog tour, there's a giveaway! The prize? A $75 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash! Ends November 23. Enter through the Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 
*** Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Inspired Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.  ***
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