Showing posts with label Bethany House. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bethany House. Show all posts

Monday, May 11, 2015

A Love Like Ours by Becky Wade (Blog Tour + Review)

A Love Like Ours
by Becky Wade
Porter Family series, Book 3
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available May 2015
Bethany House
368 pages



About the Book
Former Marine Jake Porter has far deeper scars than the one that marks his face. He struggles with symptoms of PTSD, lives a solitary life, and avoids relationships.

When Lyndie James, Jake’s childhood best friend, lands back in Holley, Texas, Jake cautiously hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds. Lyndie is tender-hearted, fiercely determined, and afraid of nothing, just like she was as a child. Jake pairs her with Silver Leaf, a horse full of promise but lacking in results, hoping she can solve the mystery of the stallion’s reluctance to run.

Though Jake and Lyndie have grown into very different adults, the bond that existed during their childhood still ties them together. Against Jake’s will, Lyndie’s sparkling, optimistic personality begins to tear down the walls he’s built around his heart. A glimmer of the hope he’d thought he’d lost returns, but fears and regrets still plague him. Will Jake ever be able to love Lyndie like she deserves, or is his heart too shattered to mend?

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

My Thoughts
A Love Like Ours combines some of my favorite plot elements in a novel—reuniting childhood friends, all things cowboy/horses, siblings, a military hero, and some sort of trauma or difficulty that keeps resurfacing. It's like Becky Wade KNOWS me or something! [wink] But seriously, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment spent with this story.

I'm really loving this Porter family. While each book focuses on one specific sibling, the others pop up from time to time. When Jake needs a "kick in the pants," his siblings are right there ready to encourage him (or shove him) out of his comfort zone. And Jake really is an amazing guy. Of course, the trauma he's experienced affects just about everything in his life, but throughout the story, he's struggling and working to move past it.

And Lyndie is great. She's passionate and fun and such a great friend. I loved her interactions with Jake (of course!), but it was also fun to see her friendship with Amber and her son blossom. Amber's dating challenge was also a funny, light-hearted element that I appreciated since much of the book is a little more serious. I could give them a run for their money on some of those dating stories! 

I loved this book! Great characters, strong faith elements, and a plot that provided more than just a simple romance story. What more could you want?! [5 stars]

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
Becky Wade is a native of California who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and moved to Dallas. She published historical romances for the general market, took time off to raise her children, then felt God nudging her to pursue contemporary Christian fiction. Becky’s work has been a finalist for both a RITA and an INSPY Award.

Becky Wade Online
Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Pinterest

Sunday, March 1, 2015

Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey (Review)

Sabotaged 
by Dani Pettrey
Alaskan Courage series, Book 5
Christian Fiction / Romantic Suspense
Available February 2015
Bethany House
336 pages



About the Book
Finally Returned Home, Reef McKeena Finds His Beloved Alaska Facing Its Greatest Threat

Growing up, goody-two-shoes Kirra Jacobs and troublemaker Reef McKenna were always at odds. Now, working together as search-and-rescue for Alaska's arduous Iditarod race, a growing attraction seems to be forcing aside old arguments. Then Reef catches Kirra sneaking from camp in the middle of the night.

Kirra's uncle, a musher in the race, has disappeared. Kirra and Reef quickly track the man, but what they discover is harrowing: Frank's daughter has been kidnapped. Kirra and Reef, along with the entire McKenna family, are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl's life—but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen.

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

My Thoughts
After reading the first four books in Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series, I was a little conflicted about the release of Sabotaged, which is the fifth and final book in the series. I mean, of course, I was excited for another Dani Pettrey novel (who wouldn't be?!) but I hate saying farewell to characters I've come to know and love (the McKennas, y'all!).

Sabotaged is a slight departure from the rest of the series. It doesn't feel quite as adventurous because much of the story takes place away from the race. And the overall pace feels much slower. However, as the story progresses and the clues begin to fit together, I felt the urgency fueling the characters' actions and got swept up in the mystery.

It was also interesting to see Reef and Kirra finally be thrown together after getting hints that there could be a romance between the two of them earlier in the series. They've known each other since Kindergarten, so a lot of the "get to know you" stuff is out of the way. In Sabotaged, we get to see them get to know each other as adults, work through baggage from past relationships, and figure out their feelings for each other. Although it happened pretty quickly, the relationship felt natural. I really enjoyed digging into Kirra's past—between a tragedy in college and family secrets, there's a lot to explore there. I wish we could have gotten in on more of Reef's past and the change that's come about.

As always, one of my favorite aspects of a family series is getting to connect with other characters/siblings from previous books. Two of the other couples played significant roles in Sabotaged, and a wonderful epilogue at the end tied the series together quite nicely.

If you've somehow missed out on this series, I highly recommend it! While each book can be read as a stand alone novel, I think you should read them in order for maximum enjoyment.  [3.5 stars]

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

About the Author
Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the Alaskan Courage romantic suspense series, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, and Silenced, and new release, Sabotaged. Her books have been honored with the Daphne du Maurier award, two HOLT Medallions, two National Readers' Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing's Best Award, among others. 

She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves--the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of her characters' faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their two daughters, a son-in-law, and a super adorable grandson.

Dani Pettrey Online
Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Waiting on Wednesday | Captured by Love

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is ...

Captured by Love by Jody Hedlund
Bethany House | July 1, 2014

About the Book
Michigan Territory, 1814
A voyageur and a young woman swept up in a time of upheaval and danger discover firsthand the high price of freedom.

The British Army has taken control of Michilimackinac Island and its fort, forcing the Americans to swear an oath of loyalty to the crown in order to retain their land. Pierre Durant is a fur trader who returns after being away from the island for years, only to find the family farm a shambles and those he cares about starving and at the mercy of British invaders.

Torn between the adventurous life of fur trading and guilt over neglecting his defenseless mother, Pierre is drawn deeper into the fight against the British--and into a relationship with Angelique MacKenzie, a childhood friend who's grown into a beautiful woman. She now finds herself trapped by the circumstances of war and poverty, and the cruelty of her guardian, Ebenezer Whiley.

As tensions mount and the violence rages on, Pierre and Angelique must decide where their loyalties rest and how much they'll risk for love.

Why I Can't Wait to Read It
When I discovered Jody Hedlund, she quickly became one of my favorite authors! She is also introducing me to new places and periods of history. I'm looking forward to visiting Michigan again with her in this new book.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Until I Found You by Victoria Bylin (Blog Tour + Review)


This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Until I Found You
by
Victoria Bylin
Available May 2014 from Bethany House
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
  352 pages

About the Book
Finding each other was only the beginning . . .

When Kate Darby swerves off a mountain road to avoid hitting a California condor, she ends up trapped in her car, teetering on the edge of a cliff. Terrified, she breathes a prayer that changes her life.

It's Nick Sheridan who comes to Kate's rescue. Nick is handsome and confident, and he seems to develop a habit of rescuing her, but Kate is in town only until her grandmother recuperates from a stroke. She's not planning to get involved with one of the locals.

Nick is a reformed veteran of life in the fast lane, a new Christian, and a travel writer. When he sees a car dangling on the edge of a cliff, the daredevil in him jumps into action. He doesn't expect to be swept off his feet by the car's occupant. He's made a vow--no dating for a year--but keeping that vow is going to be a lot more difficult now that he's met Kate Darby. . . .

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

My Thoughts
Until I Found You was my first introduction to Victoria Bylin. I think it's safe to say that it won't be my last venture through one of her books!

On the surface, the story is about two people with lots of issues who are navigating their way through a new friendship. However, there's so much more to it than that! The author uses this front to convey messages about God's love and our need to place our ultimate trust in Him. I loved how she used the story of the condors to relay messages of faithfulness and to show God's majesty as well. And Leona's story of her marriage and her own relationship with God told through journal entries was a powerful addition.

With so many things going on simultaneously, I expected at times to feel overwhelmed. However, somehow it all worked together perfectly to tell an amazing story! Nick and Kate are awesome characters—real people with real issues. They're not perfect—by any stretch!—but they both want to be better people, even if they don't always know how to go about it. Leona is an endearing character. She really balances some of the tension that comes from the other characters with her steadiness.

Until I Found You is unlike any other book I've read recently! Bylin has written a compelling story that left me in awe!  [4.5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House through CFBA in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Known for her realistic, likable characters and vivid writing, Victoria Bylin writes both western and contemporary inspirational romance. Her books have finaled in the ACFW Carol Awards, the Rita Awards and RT Magazine’s Reviewers’ Choice Awards. She and her husband currently live in Lexington, Kentucky and have two grown sons. 
A Word from the Author
This may sound crazy, but I was driven to write romance by giant bugs and killer rabbits. I just couldn't take it anymore. My husband and two sons would be camped in front of the television watching a movie about spiders the size of bowling balls, and I'd be wondering when the handsome scientist would get around to kissing the spunky woman with the bug spray. When it didn't happen, I decided to write my own happy endings--without the giant bugs... 

Victoria Bylin Online
Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Pinterest

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Guess the Title of Dani Pettrey's Next Novel!

Dani Pettrey is an incredibly talented romantic suspense writer. I have LOVED all three of her previous novels, am currently devouring her latest (Silenced), and am thrilled to hear that she is releasing one more book in this series.

Seriously, if you haven't read any of her novels yet, what are you waiting for?!

Dani is announcing the title of her next novel tomorrow during her Book Banter party on Facebook (12-2pm EST). I thought I would toss out a few guesses as to what the next title might be. And Dani, if you happen to read this and like my guesses better than the actual title, feel free to borrow from my list. :)

Dani's other novels all have titles that begin with "S" and end in "ED," so I'm assuming that the next title will follow the same "rules."


10. Stabbed, Strangled, and Slaughtered - Three books in one! More violence comes to Yancey, Alaska ...

9. Swindled - The McKenna family travels back in time to put their mark on history and find a swindler ...

8. Scowled - If looks could kill …

7. Skewered - A BBQ takes a turn for the worst ...

6. Sewered - Not to be confused with Skewered, you’ll want to plug your nose while reading this one.

5. Studied - An intellectual tale of suspense ...

4. Shrugged - The killer just doesn't care ...

3. Sanitized - When a killer is a neat freak ...

2. Served - When murder and mayhem collide on the tennis court, the McKennas come to the rescue ...

1. Scratched - A cat fight leads to a grizzly discovery ...

You don't think those made the cut? Well, how about these?

Suspended
Sabotaged
Succumbed
Surprised
Secluded
Snatched
Startled
Stopped
Seduced
Snowed

What's your guess for the title of Dani's next novel? Find out if your guess is right on Friday, May 23 at the Book Banter (12-2pm EST) on Facebook!

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Meant to Be Mine by Becky Wade (Tour Grand Finale + Giveaway)

To post this Grand Finale and add your Social Media to the Rafflecopter, 
email us at PrismBookTours(at)gmail.com with "Meant to Be Mine GF" in the subject line.

A book tour hosted by Prism Book Tours.

The REVIEW & EXCERPT TOUR GRAND FINALE for
Meant to Be Mine
by Becky Wade

Happy belated Mother's Day! In Meant to Be Mine, Celia has been living as a single mother and then later in the story has to figure out who she is as a woman as her daughter becomes less dependent on her. We want to thank all you moms out there who give so much of yourselves to do what you do!! It isn't easy being a mother all the time, but it is also one of the best jobs for all the love given and received.


Meant to be Mine (A Porter Family Novel, #2)
Meant to Be Mine
(A Porter Family Novel #2)
by Becky Wade

Christian Romance
May 2014 by Bethany House Publishers

Ty Porter has always been irresistible to Celia Park. All through high school—irresistible. When their paths cross again after college—still irresistible. This time, though, Ty seems to feel exactly the same way about Celia. Their whirlwind romance deposits them at a street-corner Las Vegas wedding chapel.

The next morning they wake to a marriage certificate and a dose of cold reality. Celia’s ready to be Ty’s wife, but Ty’s not ready to be her husband. He’s a professional bull rider, he lives on the road, and he’s long planned to settle down with the hometown girl he’s known since childhood.

Five and a half years pass. Celia’s buried her dreams so that she can afford to raise her daughter. Ty’s achieved all of his goals. Or thought he had, until he looks again into the eyes of the woman he couldn’t forget and into the face of the child he never knew he had.

How much will Ty sacrifice to win back Celia’s trust and prove to her that their spontaneous marriage can still become the love of a lifetime?

Did you miss any of the stops along the tour? 
You can go back and check them out now!

May 5
"It had a perfect mix of romance, heartbreak, well-fleshed characters, inspiration, hope, and a small-town setting....Truly a well-written, heartfelt, and enjoyably sweet story!"

I Am A Reader - Excerpt
     “I’m not Mrs. Porter.” Teasing tinged her voice. She didn’t want to be too hard on him, not when the notion of him wanting to marry her was so outrageously flattering.
     “Determined to wait until after the ceremony, huh?” He tipped the dealers and requested a tray so that he could pack up his chips. “You coming?”
     “Definitely.” She didn’t want to tell him this, at the risk of seeming pathetic. But she’d follow him anywhere.

Rina's Reading - Review
"Read this if you enjoy contemporary romance with twists, cowboys and cute little girls. And great (clean, but sweep you off your feet) kisses."

May 6
     There he was.
     She forgot how to breathe.
     He was striding down the sidewalk towards her, a few shops away and closing, looking up, probably to find the sign that said Jana’s.
     She’d anticipated that he’d look handsome. But ‘handsome’ was something you might say about a male model in a magazine ad; it was too stiff and flat an adjective for Ty Porter.
     Ty Porter had the kind of appeal that pulled your gaze to him and wouldn’t let you look away.

JoJo's Corner - Review
"I think this story will ring true and resonate with many readers- that love isn’t always like a Disney fairy tale. If you’re a fan of great love stories with memorable characters- don’t miss this one!!!!"

Heidi Reads... - Review
"I was surprised by how much I loved this book! The secret baby theme isn't my favorite, but the author was so skilled in portraying the complex emotions of the characters, I was immediately drawn in and couldn't put the book down!...I definitely recommend this book and can't wait to read the rest of her books!"

May 7
Copywrite1985 - Review
"Ty Porter and Celia Parker got married in Vegas after dating four days. It shouldn’t have worked, and for a long time, it didn’t. But God had a plan to save the bull rider and the baker’s marriage, and He carried it out despite their stubbornness, bitterness, and inability to forgive. This reader really enjoyed being along for the ride."

Kindle and Me - Review
"I am so glad that I read this. It delved deeper into all aspects of relationships with their sacrifices and trust issues. It was an eye opener for me. I definitely will be reading the rest of the series."

Redpillows - Review
"This is truly a fun read and the simpleness of the story is beautiful. The author has also brought out the strong belief people have in God and in the end how that can shape or change a person’s life if you just believe. This is a beautiful story of love, understanding and trust, the lengths to which people can go to protect the ones they love or to gain the trust of the people they love."

Little Lisa - Spotlight
"I LOVED THIS BOOK! I loved the banter, the romance and the theme of forgiveness! I couldn't put the book down and recommend it to all!!!"

Add Librarian - Review
"It’s romance with just the right touch of faith at it’s heart. The characters are spot on and the pacing is fantastic."

May 8
"I absolutely loved the journey Ty and Celia went on in their discovery of what truly matters in life. The journey to true love isn't always easy, but it can be so much fun, as well as sweet and romantic."

     “Aw,” he crooned. “Watching me ride gave you a little thing for me, didn’t it sweet one?”
     She turned a withering look on him. “What kind of a thing?”
     “A burning love kind of a thing.”
     “Hardly.”
     “Admit it, you missed me while I was gone.” 
     “Not in the least.” 
     “Still hate me?” 
     “Yes.” 

     If he could feel a calm sort of kindness toward Celia, that would be good. That's what he'd been going for tonight.
     Instead, when she'd opened her door, pleasure had rushed through him at the sight of her. After years on the road, seeing her standing in front of him with a bright, good-smelling house behind her had felt like coming home. The kind of home that had nothing to do with her fool apartment.

     Once Pummeler had disappeared down the passage where all bulls disappeared, Ty lifted his hat, smiled at the crowd, and turned in a circle to acknowledge their support. The down-home commentators with the chicken-fried-steak accents called him a ‘fan favorite’ and a ‘three time world champion’ and ‘third in the season’s standings’.
     “Nice try, Pummeler.” Celia shook her head and fast-forwarded. 
     Ty rode again and stayed on again. 
     Unfortunately no one would be denting Ty’s arrogance tonight.

"If you are looking for a cute story full of witty banter and to sink your teeth into be sure to check out this book as well as Becky Wade’s other stories."

"I just got through Becky Wades new book called Meant to Be. If you haven't read any books by Becky, I highly recommend it! She is a delight....It's truly great and I give it five stars!"

May 9
"I just loved everything about this book. I loved that it made me mad, and laugh and cry. I mean, when an author does that to me, I just want to jump up and down. I know, kind of crazy, but I love it when a book can bring such emotions out of me....It was sweet, funny, and just an all around great read."

Batch of Books - Review
"It's official. I'm a die hard Becky Wade fan. I love her books. They are real and heartfelt stories that I connect to....I would highly recommend this book to fans of Christian fiction and romance. It's a beautiful reminder that marriage is sacred to God."

"The Christian elements are there but aren’t overpowering. The story really shines through and I enjoyed it all a lot. In fact, when I finished this book, which is the second in the series, I went right to Amazon to check out the other books by this author."

"I just love the simplicity and the beauty of the story. It’s about love and forgiveness. It’s one of those books you want to read if you want to relax and unwind."


About the Author

During her childhood in California, Becky Wade frequently produced homemade plays starring her sisters, friends, and cousins. These plays almost always featured a heroine, a prince, and a love story with a happy ending. She's been a fan of all things romantic ever since.

Becky and her husband lived overseas in the Caribbean and Australia before settling in Dallas, Texas. It was during her years abroad that Becky's passion for reading turned into a passion for writing. She published three historical romances for the general market, put her career on hold for many years to care for her kids, and eventually returned to writing sheerly for the love of it. She’s delighted to be penning warm, wry, and heartwarming contemporary romances for the Christian market. Her CBA debut, My Stubborn Heart, was a finalist in both the RITA and INSPY awards. Undeniably Yours kicked off her Texas-set Porter Family series. Her newest contemporary romance, Meant to Be Mine, has just hit shelves!

These days Becky can be found failing but trying to keep up with her housework, sweating at the gym, carting her kids around town, playing tennis, hunched over her computer, eating chocolate, or collapsed on the sofa watching TV with her husband.



Tour-Wide Giveaway

Prize #1: $50 Visa gift card and a paperback or ebook copy of Meant to Be Mine (open internationally)
Prize #2: 1 lb. of Starbucks coffee and signed copies of Undeniably Yours and Meant to Be Mine (US Only)
Prize #3: Box of See's Chocolates and signed copies of Undeniably Yours and Meant to Be Mine (US Only)
May 4 - 18

Prism Book Tours
Are you a blogger and want to receive information about new tours? Go HERE.
Are you an author or publisher and would like to have us organize a tour event? Go HERE.

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Teaser Tuesday | A Beauty So Rare

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly post hosted by MizB on her blog Should Be Reading
Hop over for details or to link up!


Still nursing the slight sting from Aunt Adelicia's politely framed rebuke, Eleanor took another bite of creamed sweet potatoes, whipped lighter and fluffier than she'd ever tasted, and observed the family interaction around the Cheatham dinner table.  (p. 57)
A Beauty So Rare by Tamera Alexander

Tamera Alexander definitely has a knack for descriptions! I'm definitely craving a bite of those sweet potatoes now ... and I'm curious as to what the rebuke was for and what interests Eleanor about the family interactions at dinner.

Monday, April 28, 2014

A Sensible Arrangement by Tracie Peterson (Review & Blog Tour)

A Sensible Arrangement
by Tracie Peterson
Lone Star Brides series, Book 1
Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance
Available April 2014
Bethany House
336 pages



About the Book
Marty Dandridge Olson is ready to leave behind the pain of the past.
 
Answering an advertisement for a “Lone Star bride,” she leaves her Texas ranch and heads to Denver to marry a man she doesn’t know.

Jake Wythe is the man waiting for her.
 
Burned by love, he marries now simply to satisfy the board of Morgan Bank, which believes a man of his standing in society should be wed. Together Jake and Marty agree they are done with romance and love and will make this nothing more than a marriage of convenience.

When missing money and a collapsing economy threaten his job, Jake’s yearning to return to ranching grows ever stronger, much to Marty’s dismay. But a fondness has grown between them, as well, further complicating matters.

What will happen when their relationship shifts in unexpected ways… and dreams and secrets collide?

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

My Thoughts
I read several of Tracie Peterson's books a while back and thoroughly enjoyed them. When I saw that she was releasing A Sensible Arrangement (her 100th book!!!) this month, I was excited to start a new series with her. 

Two of my favorite story lines in historical fiction are mail order bride and marriage of convenience stories. Combine the two, and double the fun! From the beginning, I liked Marty. She's feisty and has a serious streak of independence. It wasn't clear until much later why she would be interested in leaving her family in Texas and become a mail order bride, but once we finally learned the reason, it made sense. Marty has a terrible problem with lying. While I often wanted to shake her and force the truth out, I actually liked that her vice was something that most people have dealt with but generally overlook. I thought it made her more relatable and showed how a seemingly insignificant sin can have such far-reaching consequences.

I enjoyed getting to know Jake as well. He was intent on being a good husband—even if romance wouldn't be part of the equation. He definitely had a lot going on at work, and that part of history was definitely interesting! As Jake and Marty became closer friends, their relationship developed more. I just wish we could have seen more of that!

There were several things that weren't resolved, but I'm assuming that the next book will take care of some of that. And I, for one, am looking forward to reading it! A Sensible Arrangement is another great read from Tracie Peterson!  [4 stars]

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

About the Author
Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over eighty novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana, and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana.

Tracie Peterson Online
Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook

Friday, April 25, 2014

Meet the Woman Behind the Cover Dress of "A Beauty So Rare" (Guest Blog by Tamera Alexander)

I love beautiful book covers—and those historical dresses definitely star on some of my favorites! Author Tamera Alexander is sharing an interview with Beth Schoenherr, the seamstress of the lovely dress on the cover of Tamera's new novel, A Beauty So Rare. Enjoy!



Author, Tamera Alexander
Have you ever wanted to meet the woman who sewed the dress on a novel cover? Then please allow me to introduce you to Beth Schoenherr, the ever-so-talented seamstress who sewed Eleanor Braddock’s dress for the cover of A Beauty So Rare.

I’m thrilled that Beth was willing to share about her experience in making the dress, and I love the behind-the-scenes glimpses she shares. I hope you will, too!

Tamera: Where did inspiration for the dress for A Beauty So Rare come from (both the style and color)?

Beth: The style, of course, was determined by the post–Civil War timing of the story.

I believe the cover designer and editors talked about a garden setting and felt pink would look lovely against the backdrop of the green foliage and other flowers, which it does! I then had the fun of finding the right shade of pink to keep it a believable color for the time. Hot pink or neon pink, of course, would never do!

Tamera: Um, no. LOL! Not even Adelicia Acklen could have coerced Eleanor into neon pink! ; ) Have you made dresses for photo shoots before?

Love this gorgeous cover!

Beth: I started doing period costumes for men, women, and children in amateur theater in 1999 and then had opportunities in the following years to progress to working in the costume shop of a professional theater. This is my first costume for a photo shoot, however.

Tamera: How cool, Beth. I’m so grateful for your work on this dress. Well done! Do you have an appreciation for period clothing? And if yes, what’s your favorite style of women’s dresses from history?

Beth: I do enjoy period clothing. I don’t think I can pick one favorite style though. I just enjoy the various and changing silhouettes and fabrics throughout the history of fashion.

Tamera: Understandable. I have many "favorites," too! What’s the most challenging dress you’ve created for a cover (and what was most challenging about it)? Also, what has been your most challenging sewing project in general?

Beth: As I mentioned, this is the first dress I have made for a cover. It has been really fun and exciting to create this dress from scratch and then see it on the cover of this book. A new experience I had when making this dress was the cartridge pleats at the back of the skirt. The pattern called for the front and side pieces of the skirt to be pleated to fit into the waistband and left only a five-inch opening in the back of the waistband. Then I had to fit the 50-inch-wide piece of fabric for the back part of the skirt into that five-inch opening. I thought, “There is no way I’m going to get that much fabric into that little space.” But the cartridge pleats worked fabulously at neatly pleating 50” down to 5”.


Seamstress, Beth Schoenherr
The most challenging costume I worked on was a waistcoat designed and then cut out by someone else and given to me to sew. Not a single piece matched up in size to its coordinating piece. There was no extra fabric to work with so I had to just rework the pieces I had while making sure the finished garment would still fit the actor it was designed for. Definitely a “make it work” project!


Finally, probably the most thrilling dress I got to make was the first complete dress for a play at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. Many of my costumes prior to that had to be remakes of existing dresses or costumes due to tight budgets. But I was graciously given the opportunity to sew, from start to finish, the schoolteacher dress in Little House on the Prairie: The Musical, which premiered at the Guthrie and then went on to tour nationally. It was so exciting to see the professionally-designed dress come together step-by-step and then to see it on stage.

Tamera: Wow, Beth, I bet that was a rewarding experience with Little House on the Prairie: The Musical. Congratulations! I’ve always admired people who know how to sew, and sew well!

Thank you for sharing your talent and time with us––and with the cover of my latest novel.



For more "behind the scenes" glimpses from the photo shoot for A Beauty So Rare, visit Tamera's blog.

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Blog Tour & Review | The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen

The Dancing Master
by Julie Klassen
Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance
Available January 2014
Bethany House
432 pages



About the Book
Finding himself the man of the family, London dancing master Alec Valcourt moves his mother and sister to remote Devonshire, hoping to start over. But he is stunned to learn the village matriarch has prohibited all dancing, for reasons buried deep in her past.

Alec finds an unlikely ally in the matriarch’s daughter. Though he’s initially wary of Julia Midwinter’s reckless flirtation, he comes to realize her bold exterior disguises a vulnerable soul–and hidden sorrows of her own.

Julia is quickly attracted to the handsome dancing master–a man her mother would never approve of–but she cannot imagine why Mr. Valcourt would leave London, or why he evades questions about his past. With Alec’s help, can Julia uncover old secrets and restore life to her somber village…and to her mother’s tattered heart?

Filled with mystery and romance, The Dancing Master brings to life the intriguing profession of those who taught essential social graces for ladies and gentlemen hoping to make a “good match” in Regency England.

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

My Thoughts
I'm a big fan of Julie Klassen's novels, so I've been looking forward to this novel ... well ... for a year now! The Dancing Master is set during Regency England and features the story of Alec, a dancing master who has moved to a small village where dancing is not allowed. We also meet Julia, heiress of the ruling family in the town, who is struggling with her role in society and desperate to discover the secrets she is certain her mother is hiding.

With such a promising plot, I was a bit disappointed in the way it played out. It seemed that the story took a while to get going, and it wasn't until I was halfway through the book that I was truly engaged. I think shortening the book and tightening up a few things might have helped this story move along better. Additionally, Julia is a hard character to like. She's essentially a spoiled brat and I didn't like her until nearly the end of the book!

While Julia was difficult, I really enjoyed Alec. It's not often that the majority of a Christian fiction novel is told through the eyes of the male protagonist, and the more I read, the better I liked Alec. It was easy to have sympathy for his situation, and I appreciated his desire to provide for and protect his mom and sister. There were quite a few secondary characters that were delightful as well—Aurora and the Allens were a few favorites. Perhaps they'll get their own stories one day?

Despite the slower pace, I did enjoy the book. Klassen has a beautiful writing style, which makes any story better! Fans of Julie Klassen will enjoy this book, though it may not be a favorite, and fans of Regency England are encouraged to pick this one up as well. [3.5 stars]

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

About the Author
Julie Klassen loves all things Jane–Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She is a three-time Christy Award winner and a 2010 Midwest Book Award winner for Genre Fiction. Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.

Julie Klassen Online
Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Sneak Peek of Stranded by Dani Pettrey (& Giveaway!)

stranded

Sneak Peek of Stranded by Dani Pettrey
Darcy strode down the eerily silent corridor, heading for the elevator. Where was Abby? Perhaps, after returning from the day’s excursion, she’d been called in to help with the evening’s bash on Deck 9. Whatever the cause of Abby’s delay, Darcy wasn’t going to spend the rest of the night waiting. She had signed on with the Bering to aid Abby in an investigation—an investigation she still knew very little about.

Abby’s calls from various Alaskan ports over the past few weeks had been brief—telling Darcy about an adventure journalist opportunity aboard Destiny Cruise Line’s Bering and encouraging her to apply. The last call—the day before Darcy was scheduled to leave California to join the cruise—had been different. It had lasted less than a minute, and there was a heightened urgency to Abby’s tone, true fear—unlike anything she’d heard in her former undercover investigation partner before. She wouldn’t give any details, only frantically confirmed that Darcy was indeed arriving. Whatever Abby was on to, it was big.

For the first time in three years, the hunger of the hunt was back for her. And the beauty of it was that her adventure journalist “cover” was real.

Her adventure credentials and her ability to be on board the ship within forty-eight hours had impressed Destiny Cruise Line and snagged her the spot. She’d been on board little over twelve hours, and already she was anxious to plunge into whatever Abby needed her help with.

She pressed the Up button, tapping her foot until the elevator doors slid open. She stepped inside, hit the button for level 9, and leaned against the rail. Who would have thought she’d ever be back on a case? When she left undercover investigative reporting three years ago, she’d vowed never to return. But this was different. Abby needed her help, she wasn’t totally undercover, and most importantly she wasn’t working for Kevin—that fact alone made all the difference. Or, at least, she tried to convince herself it did.

The elevator moved slowly, or perhaps the anxiety was getting to her. She’d been so restless since she’d left Alaska last December . .  left the McKenna family . . . left Gage. She’d expected to stay in contact, but nothing had come—five months with no phone calls, no e-mails . . . nothing.

She jiggled her leg as the numbers overhead lit with each deck passed—5. 6. 7.

The elevator jerked to a sudden halt at 8, jarring her hard against the back rail. An alarm whirred and the lights dimmed.

You’ve got to be kidding.
 She pressed the 9 button. Nothing. 
“Oh, come on.” 
Depressing the emergency call button, she held it in, trying to ward off the encroaching panic. She was trapped.

stranded About Stranded
When her friend vanishes from a cruise ship, reporter Darcy St. James isn't satisfied with their explanation that she simply left her job of her own accord. Something isn't lining up, and Darcy believes the only way to find the truth is to put herself in Abby's position. Within days, Darcy learns her friend wasn't the only person to disappear mysteriously. Last summer, a woman vanished under almost identical circumstances. 

Gage McKenna has taken a summer-long stint leading adventure excursions for the passengers of various cruise lines that dock for a few days of sightseeing. He's surprised to find Darcy working aboard one of the ships, investigating a troubling report. Something sinister is going on and the deeper they dig the more Gage fears they've only discovered the tip of the iceberg. 


dani
About Dani Pettrey 
Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of one’s faith and plenty of romance. She’s a huge fan of dark chocolate, is always in search of the best iced mocha and her dream is to one day own a little cottage on a remote stretch of beach. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters. 


Tour Giveaway 
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash 
Ends 10/10/13 

*** 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, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. ***

Tens List with Kathryn Cushman (& Giveaway)

chasing hope tour

I'm excited to host Kathryn Cushman today as part of the blog tour for her new book, Chasing Hope. I asked Kathryn to share her Top 10 Most Memorable or Surreal Moments as an Author. A huge thanks to Kathryn for sharing these memories with us!


  1. When my first book started showing up in stores, my family and I went down to see it on the shelf. My husband said, "I don't want any of your author copies, I want to buy my own copy." My 14 year-old said, "I want to buy my own copy, too." Then my 9 year-old said, "Me, too." So we left the store that night with three purchased copies of A Promise to Remember.
     
  2. Getting a call from Diana, a friend who lives nearby, who had gotten an email from one of her friends who lives in South Africa. Seems this friend had bought one of my books (in South Africa!), read it, and then while looking through the acknowledgments, saw Diana's name. It's a small world, even half the world away.
     
  3. Calling my mother (who had been my first reader, early editor, and cheerleader for several years) to tell her that I had a book contract.
     
  4. My very first hometown book signing, when over 100 people turned out, including former elementary teachers, Sunday School teachers, and high school pals I hadn't seen in a couple of decades.
     
  5. Seeing my daughter's homework assignment about what the other members of her family do. For me, the answer was, "My mother doesn't really do anything. She just stays at home and reads and writes."
     
  6. Twice being a finalist for the Carol Award.
     
  7. Holding my very first copy of my very first book.
     
  8. There are several reader's letters that make my "most memorable"-- since these are all highly personal, I won't say more.
     
  9. Signing my first contract
     
  10. Being featured in "Publishers Weekly".

Chasing HopeAbout Chasing Hope
A Personal Drama of Shattered Dreams and Second Chances 

A talented runner fully committed to Olympic dreams, Sabrina Rice's future was shattered by a devastating diagnosis. One forfeited scholarship and several years later, she has new goals and dreams that have nothing to do with running--something that's become far too painful to think on. 

Until the day she sees Brandy Philip running across the community college campus, easily outpacing security. Sabrina immediately recognizes world-class speed, and it's all the more painful that it belongs to a teenage graffiti artist. When a chance encounter brings the two young women together, Sabrina becomes Brandy's best hope for staying out of juvenile hall. Soon, Sabrina begins to feel an uncomfortable nudge that her new life is just about to be toppled...that God may be calling her to minister to this talented but troubled girl.   


kathryn About Kathryn Cushman
Author Kathryn "Katie" Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy. She is the author of five novels, including Leaving Yesterday and A Promise to Remember, which were both finalists for the Carol Award in Women's Fiction. She is also the co-author of Angel Song with Sheila Walsh. Kathryn and her family currently live in Santa Barbara, California.








Tour Giveaway 
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash 
 Ends 10/17/13 

*** 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, Not A Writer and sponsored by the publisher. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. ***   

Friday, September 27, 2013

Made to Last by Melissa Tagg

Made to Last
by Melissa Tagg
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available September 2013
Bethany House
368 pages

Buy a copy
Read an excerpt
Find out what others think




About the Book
Miranda Woodruff has it all. At least, that's how it looks when she's starring in her homebuilding television show, From the Ground Up. So when her network begins to talk about making cuts, she'll do anything to boost ratings and save her show--even if it means pretending to be married to a man who's definitely not the fiance who ran out on her three years ago.

When a handsome reporter starts shadowing Miranda's every move, all his digging into her personal life brings him a little too close to the truth--and to her. Can the girl whose entire identity is wrapped up in her on-screen persona finally find the nerve to set the record straight? And if she does, will the life she's built come crashing down just as she's found a love to last?

My Thoughts

I'm about halfway through so far and am really enjoying Made to Last! It's a cute story and even though I'm not thrilled about a couple of the decisions the main characters are making, I find myself liking them anyway. :) I love stories about relationships of convenience, but this one has thrown me for a curve ... a nice twist to what I thought was going to be a predictable story.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House and CFBA in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Melissa Tagg, author of Made to Last, is a former reporter and total Iowa girl. In addition to her homeless ministry day job, she is also the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy, a craft-and-coaching community for writers.  When she's not writing, she can be found hanging out with the coolest family ever, watching old movies, and daydreaming about her next book. She's passionate about humor, grace, and happy endings.

Melissa Tagg Online
Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Book Blast | Chasing Hope by Kathryn Cushman

chasing hope tour



Chasing Hope Chasing Hope by Kathryn Cushman  
A Personal Drama of Shattered Dreams and Second Chances 

A talented runner fully committed to Olympic dreams, Sabrina Rice's future was shattered by a devastating diagnosis. One forfeited scholarship and several years later, she has new goals and dreams that have nothing to do with running—something that's become far too painful to think on. Until the day she sees Brandy Philip running across the community college campus, easily outpacing security. Sabrina immediately recognizes world-class speed, and it's all the more painful that it belongs to a teenage graffiti artist. When a chance encounter brings the two young women together, Sabrina becomes Brandy's best hope for staying out of juvenile hall. Soon, Sabrina begins to feel an uncomfortable nudge that her new life is just about to be toppled...that God may be calling her to minister to this talented but troubled girl.

kathryn Author Kathryn Cushman

Author Kathryn "Katie" Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy. She is the author of five novels, including Leaving Yesterday and A Promise to Remember, which were both finalists for the Carol Award in Women's Fiction. She is also the co-author of Angel Song with Sheila Walsh. Kathryn and her family currently live in Santa Barbara, California. 

   
BookBlast Giveaway 
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash 
Ends 10/11/13   

*** 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, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. ***

Monday, September 16, 2013

Book Blast | Stranded by Dani Pettrey

I've recently signed up with Kathy at I Am A Reader, Not A Writer to participate in a few BookBlasts and Blog Tours that she's organizing. She puts together some really interesting tours and the prizes are great! I hope you will enjoy hearing about some of these books and will enter some of the giveaways as well!



stranded Stranded by Dani Pettrey
(Alaskan Courage #3) 

When her friend vanishes from a cruise ship, reporter Darcy St. James isn't satisfied with their explanation that she simply left her job of her own accord. Something isn't lining up, and Darcy believes the only way to find the truth is to put herself in Abby's position. Within days, Darcy learns her friend wasn't the only person to disappear mysteriously. Last summer, a woman vanished under almost identical circumstances. 

Gage McKenna has taken a summer-long stint leading adventure excursions for the passengers of various cruise lines that dock for a few days of sightseeing. He's surprised to find Darcy working aboard one of the ships, investigating a troubling report. Something sinister is going on and the deeper they dig the more Gage fears they've only discovered the tip of the iceberg. 




daniAuthor Dani Pettrey

Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of one’s faith and plenty of romance. She’s a huge fan of dark chocolate, is always in search of the best iced mocha and her dream is to one day own a little cottage on a remote stretch of beach. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters. 


stranded



BookBlast Giveaway 
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash 
Ends 10/6/13   

*** 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, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. ***

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