Thunder by Bonnie S. Calhoun (Blog Tour)

Thunder

by Bonne S. Calhoun

Stone Braide Chronicles series, Book 1

About the Book

In post-apocalyptic America, Selah Chavez is crouched in long grass on a shore littered with the rusted metal remnants of a once-great city. It is the day before her eighteenth Born Remembrance, and she is hunting, though many people refuse to eat animal flesh, tainted by radiation during the Time of Sorrows. What Selah's really after are Landers, mysterious people from a land across the big water who survive the delirium-inducing passage in small boats that occasionally crash against the shoreline. She knows she should leave the capture to the men, but Landers bring a good price from the Company and are especially prized if they keep the markings they arrive with.

Everything falls to pieces when the Lander Selah catches is stolen by her brothers--and Selah wakes up the next morning to find the Lander's distinctive mark has suddenly appeared on her own flesh. Once the hunter, Selah is now one of the hunted, and she knows only one person who can help her--Bohdi Locke, the Lander her brothers hope to sell.

With evocative descriptions of a strange new world that combines elements of scientific advances, political intrigue, and wilderness survival, Bonnie S. Calhoun weaves a captivating tale of a world more like our own than we may want to admit.

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

Bonnie S. Calhoun is Owner/Director of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance, owner/publisher of Christian Fiction Online Magazine, Northeast Zone Director for American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and the ACFW ‘2011 Mentor of the Year.”

She loves to write, but it doesn't make her happy unless there are the three B's...body count, blood, and blowing things up. She also has mad skills at coding HTML, and website design. And she lives in a log cabin in the woods with fifteen acres and a pond full of bass, though she'd rather buy fish at the grocery store. Bonnie shares her domain with a husband, a dog, and two cats, all of whom think she’s waitstaff!

Bonnie S. Calhoun Online

Website  |  Facebook  |  Pinterest

The Prequel

My copy of Thunder just arrived on Monday, so I haven't had a chance to read it yet. However, I did read the prequel short story, Tremors, last month and thought it was fantastic! You can download it for free (here) if you want to get a little background info on the series before you dive in. As for my thoughts on Tremors, here's a short review ...

Tremors is a short prequel to the forthcoming Stone Braide Chronicles. I enjoyed getting a sneak peek into this series and meeting some of the characters who I'm sure I'll be reading more about in the rest of the series. Selah is going to be a great main character. She's bold and a little angsty, which is always a fun combination. Selah's parents and brothers were interesting as well. I was also surprised (pleasantly!) at how much action was incorporated in these 28 pages——an arranged marriage, a murder, and some serious subterfuge.

I think it's important to note that this is a prequel and pretty much leaves readers hanging. I assume that Thunders (the first book in the series) will pick up where Tremors leaves off. I'm extremely curious to see how this series will play out. Great beginning! [4 stars]

Driftwood Tides by Gina Holmes (Blog Tour & Review)

Driftwood Tides
by Gina Holmes
Christian Fiction / Contemporary
Available September 2014
Tyndale House
400 pages

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About the Book

He made himself an island until something unexpected washed ashore.

When Holton lost his wife, Adele, in a freak accident, he shut himself off from the world, living a life of seclusion, making drifwood sculptures and drowning his pain in gin. Until twenty-three-year-old Libby knocks on his door, asking for a job and claiming to be a friend of his late wife. When he discovers Libby is actually his late wife’s illegitimate daughter, given up for adoption without his knowledge, his life is turned upside down as he struggles to accept that the wife he’d given saint status to was not the woman he thought he knew.

Together Holton and Libby form an unlikely bond as the two struggle to learn the identity of Libby’s father and the truth about Adele, themselves, and each other.

My Thoughts

Driftwood Tides isn't the type of book that I would usually fall in love with. Usually, I want my books to be chock-full of romance or suspense or historical tidbits. Usually, I need something more than a nice women's fiction story. Usually, I would read this book, enjoy it, post a review, and move on.

That is not the case with Driftwood Tides. The premise of the book—a woman in her 20s learns of her adoption and seeks out her birth mother only to find her mother has died and her step-father is a drunk disaster of an artist—intrigued me. I immediately began reading the book upon receiving it in the mail. Within three pages, I knew this was a special book. I instantly loved the characters in this book—both the ones I was supposed to love and the ones that were supposed to drive me crazy. They each evoked a variety of emotions, and I found that I couldn't read about them without feeling something!

The story itself was absolutely beautiful. This could have been a very preachy book, but it wasn't. Instead, the themes of forgiveness and redemption were perfectly woven throughout. Additionally, the story moved along in such a way that I felt that I was able to both enjoy what was happening while looking forward to the end.

One of the most surprising aspects of Driftwood Tides was the descriptions of the art that Holton and Tess created. The only thing missing from this amazing book was pictures of all that beautiful artwork ... and possibly the opportunity to buy a piece!

Driftwood Tides is a beautiful story that will tug at your heart. I highly recommend it!  [5 stars]

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

About the Author

Bestselling author Gina Holmes is the founder of the influential literary site Novel Rocket, regularly named one of Writers Digest's best sites for writers. Her debut novel, Crossing Oceans, was a Christy and Christian Book Award finalist and winner of the Carol, INSPY, and RWA's Inspirational Reader's Choice Contest awards, as well as a CBA, ECPA, Amazon and Publishers Weekly Religion bestseller. She is also the author of Dry As Rain, a Christy Award finalist, and Wings of Glass. Gina holds degrees in science and nursing and currently resides with her family in southern Virginia. She works too hard, laughs too loud, and longs to see others heal from their past and discover their God-given purpose. 

Gina Holmes Online

Website & Blog  |  Facebook

Yankee in Atlanta by Jocelyn Green (Blog Tour)

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Yankee in Atlanta
by
Jocelyn Green
Available June 2014 from River North
Christian Fiction / Historical   416 pages
About the Book

When soldier Caitlin McKae woke up in Atlanta after being wounded in battle, the Georgian doctor who treated her believed Caitlin's only secret was that she had been fighting for the Confederacy disguised as a man. In order to avoid arrest or worse, Caitlin hides her true identity and makes a new life for herself in Atlanta. Trained as a teacher, she accepts a job as a governess to the daughter of Noah Becker, a German immigrant lawyer, who is about to enlist with the Rebel army. Then in the spring of 1864, Sherman's troops edge closer to Atlanta. Caitlin tries to escape north with the girl, but is arrested on charges of being a spy. Will honor dictate that Caitlin follow the rules, or love demand that she break them?

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

My Thoughts
Unfortunately, I haven't finished this book yet, but I'll be sure to share my thoughts as soon as I do!

About the Author

Jocelyn Green is a child of God, wife and mom living in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She is also an award-winning journalist, author, editor and blogger. Though she has written nonfiction on a variety of topics, her name is most widely recognized for her ministry to military wives: Faith Deployed. Her passion for the military family was fueled by her own experience as a military wife, and by the dozens of interviews she has conducted with members of the military for her articles and books, Faith Deployed: Daily Encouragement for Military Wives and its sequel, Faith Deployed...Again: More Daily Encouragement for Military Wives. She is also co-author of both Stories of Faith and Courage from the War in Iraq & Afghanistan and Stories of Faith and Courage from the Home Front (forthcoming, May 2012). Her Faith Deployed Web site and Facebook page continue to provide ongoing support, encouragement and resources for military wives worldwide.

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

Rise and Shine by Sandra D. Bricker (Blog Tour + Review)

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Rise & Shine
by
Sandra D. Bricker
Available May 2014 from River North Fiction
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance   288 pages
About the Book

Shannon Malone thought she'd found her happy ending when she married Edmund Ridgeway, but a diving accident on their honeymoon left her in a coma. Waking up to the news that she's thirty years old would have been daunting enough . . . but she also learns that Edmund has lost his interim battle with cancer and the world has marched on without her. Her gorgeous doctor, Daniel Petros, seems to know everything about her and becomes Shannon's tour guide into a whole new world of madness where reality television has taken over the planet and everyone's life appears to revolve around a tiny screen on their cell phones! As Shannon struggles to navigate through the changes-both in the world and in her-she also must discern real memories from imagined ones. Did she really ever wear capris pants and entertain in her living room, or was that Laura Petrie from her favorite classic TV show? And where is her beloved dog, Freeway? Oh, wait! That was Jonathan and Jennifer Hart's dog, not hers. Shannon's three elderly aunts flit through her life in true Sleeping Beauty style with her well-being always a priority. And Edmund's sister Millicent descends like the Evil Queen she is, trying to extract Shannon from any claim on the Ridgeway family fortune. When a tornado moves through town and Shannon is knocked unconscious, will Daniel's kiss awaken her once and for all?

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

My Thoughts

Rise and Shine is such a fun book! It seems that fairy tale retellings are quite popular right now, and Sandie Bricker has done a great job of creating a modern version of Sleeping Beauty.

To be honest, the premise was almost too sad for me to deal with. A woman has an accident on her honeymoon, goes into a coma for 10 years, finally awakens only to learn that her husband died of cancer several years earlier. So sad, right? But I trusted that Sandie would give me both a great story and a happily-ever-after ending (it's a fairy tale after all!), so I read the book despite my nervousness about the potentially-sad plot.

As I've come to expect from Sandie, Rise and Shine was great! The story is cute with plenty of laughs. Shannon's aunt is hilarious with her exclamation of "yippee!" every time Shannon remembers something. And Shannon and Daniel are fun, likeable characters. They definitely have some issues to work through, but it was fun to watch their relationship develop. Daniel was a great hero and I loved how he took care of Shannon. The best part of Shannon is that she is such a strong character—and only begins to realize it after she wakes up.

As great as the book was, I was a little disappointed in the ending. It felt really abrupt, and I just needed a little more. Maybe one more chapter or an epilogue? Overall, though, I definitely enjoyed this book and recommend it to fans of romantic comedies and/or fairy tales. [4.5 stars]

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

About the Author

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

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

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

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

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

Sandra D. Bricker Online

Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter

Once Upon a Winter's Heart by Melody Carlson (Blog Tour & Review)

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Once Upon a Winter's Heart
by
Melody Carlson
Available January 2014 from Center Street
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance  160 pages
About the Book

Emma Burcelli has suffered over a decade of dating disasters. But she concludes that love is officially dead when her grandfather Poppi suddenly passes, leaving her grandmother Nona devastated. To help out, Emma works in the family bookstore, which Nona insists must be decked out in sweetheart décor as Poppi would have done for Valentine's Day. Although she feels like a V-Day Scrooge, Emma quickly learns to enjoy the task with the help of a handsome family friend, Lane Forester, who shows her that hanging hearts is much more fun when done to the tune of Dean Martin. As Emma and Lane share time and memories of Poppi, she reconsiders the notion that romance is alive.

Just as Emma's heart begins to lift, however, she learns her sister has already staked a claim on Lane. Emma's mother and sister insist Lane only sees her as a future sister-in-law, but she can't help wondering if it could be something more.

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

My Thoughts

I've read several of Carlson's novels over the years. I've found her books to be powerful stories with strong messages (especially her stories for the YA market). So of course, I was excited to read her latest story, out just in time for Valentine's Day.

Once Upon a Winter's Heart by Melody Carlson was disappointing. There wasn't much depth—to the story or the characters. The characters seemed to be very one-dimensional, which made it hard to connect with them. Anne and Soundra were particularly unlikeable, and I kept waiting for someone to just tell them to deal with it! Emma was more likeable, but I needed her to stand up for herself.

Additionally, with nothing really happening until 100 pages in and the romance launching from 0 to 100 in about 20 pages, the timing just felt ... off. There were lots of loose ends, and the book just suddenly ended. Honestly, if the book hadn't been so short (160 pages), I probably wouldn't have finished it, but it probably needed to be longer to more fully develop the story and characters.

This book wasn't a good fit for me, but I'm sure some will enjoy it. [2 stars]

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

About the Author

Over the years, Melody Carlson has worn many hats, from pre-school teacher to youth counselor to political activist to senior editor. But most of all, she is a writer who loves to write! She is a bestselling and award-winning author of more than 200 books for children, teens, and adults—with sales totaling more than five million. Carlson's passion for 'true to life' fiction has had great success for both the young adult and women's markets. Informed and aware of the challenges and struggles facing teens today, she writes young adult novels that she hopes will change lives and women's fiction to which women of all ages can relate. Her popular series, Diary of a Teenage Girl (Multnomah), has sold more than 600,000 copies and her popular Christmas novellas have sold over 250,000 copies combined. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband. They enjoy skiing, hiking, gardening, camping and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains. 

Melody Carlson Online

Website  |  Facebook

Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron (Blog Tour & Review)

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Scraps of Evidence
(Quilts of Love, #14)
by
Barbara Cameron
Available January 2014 from Abingdon Press
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romantic Suspense
240 pages
About the Book

A quilt holds the clues to life and death.

Tess has taken some ribbing from her fellow officer, Logan, for her quilting hobby. He finds it hard to align the brisk professional officer he patrols with during the day with the one who quilts in her off-time. Besides, he’s been trying to get to know her better and he’d like to be seeing her during those few nights a week she spends with her quilting guild. Then one afternoon Tess and Logan visit her aunt in the nursing home, and the woman acts agitated when Tess covers her with the story quilt. Aunt Susan is attempting to communicate a message to them about Tess’s uncle. There’s a story behind this quilt, they realize, one that may lead them to a serial killer. Will they have a chance to have a future together, or will the killer choose Tess for his next victim before they find him?

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

My Thoughts

This is a hard review to write because I have such mixed feelings about this book. I immediately got wrapped up in this story. I loved the set-up of Tess and Logan being new partners on the police force and having an attraction for one another. And the mystery of the serial killer was interesting as well. I was itching to know who the killer was and see how they were going to solve this case that started so many years before! Every time I had to set the book aside (you know ... for real life things like work!), I wanted to get back to it ... and quickly!

However, three-fourths of the way through the book, everything changed drastically. The plot in the last fourth seemed completely disconnected from the rest of the book, and the writing style totally changed. I almost felt like the last 60 pages were written by someone else. It didn't make any sense at all. There was also a huge shift in focus and Tess's aunt and her quilt became major factors in the book—when the aunt was a mere mention early on, and the quilt was completely absent. It was just confusing.

My other issue was that the copy on the back of the book didn't match with the story. At. All. I don't want to be rude, but it seemed like the back cover was written by someone who had not actually read the book. (Note: The "about the book" section above was taken from the publisher's website, which matches up more closely to the plot than the back cover.) Also, Tess's aunt is named Aunt KATHY, not Aunt Susan (as listed on the publisher's website and the copy on the book).

Had the first two-thirds to three-fourths of the book not been so intriguing, I would probably have given this book 1 or 2 stars. However, the story started off really strong, earning it an extra star. But the end was a disappointment. [3 stars]

(NOTE: While I did receive an advance copy of this book, it was the finished product and not an uncorrected proof.)

I received a free copy of this book from Abingdon Press through Christian Fiction Blog Alliance in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author

Barbara Cameron has a heart for writing about the spiritual values and simple joys of the Amish. She is the author of more than 35 fiction and nonfiction books, three nationally televised movies, and the winner of the first Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award. Barbara currently resides in Edgewater, Florida.

Barbara Cameron Online

Website  |  Amish Living Website  |  Facebook

Blog Tour & Review | Tempest's Course by Lynette Sowell

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Tempest's Course
(Quilts of Love, #13)
by
Lynette Sowell 
Available December 2013 from Abingdon Press
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
240 pages
About the Book

Woven with stories from the past, the Mariner’s Compass quilt brings a new direction for Kelly and Tom. 

Kelly Frost, a textiles conservator, is invited to the Massachusetts coastal town of Fairhaven to restore the centuries-old Mariner's Compass quilt. But there is one stipulation: she must live and work in Grey House, a former whaling captain's home, where the quilt is stored. There she meets Tom Pereira, the caretaker of Grey House, whose heart seems as hard as the rocky Massachusetts coastline. Over the long-lit months as Kelly works to restore the quilt, she is buoyed by occasional afternoon visits from Tom and other Fairhaven town members, and is drawn into their lives. And each night, as she reads stories in a daily journal penned by Mary Grey, she learns details about her newfound community members that help her see that their lives are as vivid and interwoven as the quilt pieces she is working to restore. But, when Kelly discovers a truth about Tom’s heritage hidden in the journal, she must decide if keeping the past to herself is the only way to ensure the hope of a future with Tom.

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

My Thoughts

Tempest's Course by Lynette Sowell is an enjoyable read. Kelly and Tom are both trying to figure out their next steps when they find jobs at Grey House. As their friendship develops, creepy things start happening around the house, and Kelly turns to Tom for help. 

I've read several of the books in the Quilts of Love series and have enjoyed them. Tempest's Course was no exception. The contemporary story was very sweet, and I really liked Kelly and Tom. A historical story was woven throughout the book as well, told through a journal that Kelly found in the house. This was a unique touch. I wasn't completely sure how the two stories connected until the very end, but it was a pretty cool way to tell the story. There was a fair amount of mystery surrounding the house as well, which helped to draw me in and keep me wondering what would happen next.

My one complaint was that the book was just a bit too short. I needed a couple more chapters to really do the ending justice. (Also, there was one thing at the very end that was pretty weird for me.) Other than that, though, Tempest's Course was a fun book. Fans of sweet, romantic stories will enjoy this book. [4 stars]

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

About the Author

Lynette Sowell is the Carol Award-winning and ECPA best-selling author of more than 15 titles, including A Season of Change and Tempest’s Course, part of Abingdon’s Quilts of Love line. When Lynette is not writing, she works as a medical editor and part-time newspaper reporter. Born in Massachusetts and raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Lynette makes her home in Copperas Cove on the doorstep of the Texas hill country with her husband, their Texas heeler, and a duo of cats. She loves traveling, reading, cooking, watching movies, and is always up for a Texas road trip.

Lynette Sowell Online

Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Pinterest

Countdown to Christmas | Interview & Giveaway w/ Sandra D. Bricker

Y'all! I'm so excited to be hosting Sandra D. Bricker and her new book, Merry Humbug Christmas, today as part of the Countdown to Christmas! In case you don't know, Sandie writes hilarious romantic comedies that read just like movies!

(If you missed yesterday's interview with Melody Carlson, please check it out now. And ... you might want to mark your calendars for tomorrow's interview and giveaway with Denise Hunter!)

About the Book

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

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

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

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

My Thoughts

Sandie Bricker has quickly become one of my favorite authors. Any time I'm looking for a romantic tale that will have me in stitches, I know I can turn to Sandie. Merry Humbug Christmas was no exception! The book actually includes two novellas that are closely tied together. It's a unique approach to telling a story, but I loved how it gave me two complete romances, without the rushed feeling I often sense with novellas.

I absolutely LOVED the main characters in both of these stories! And the romance between the two couples was so sweet. A few times the antics in both stories bordered on slapstick, but I think that made the book even more enjoyable. It felt a lot like "reading" a movie ... which I've said with every one of Sandie's other novels too. I guess she's just an extremely talented writer to make the stories come alive for me like they do!

If you're looking for a Christmas story with lots of laughs and sweet romance, you will love Merry Humbug Christmas!  [5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from B&H Books and CFBA in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Sandie was gracious enough to answer a few questions about Christmas for us. I sure enjoyed getting to know a little about how she celebrates the holiday, and I hope you do too!

i blog 4 books: Sandie, thanks so much for dropping in today! What is your most memorable Christmas and why?

Sandra D. Bricker: I can't tell you what year it was, but I know I was in high school. I still have the vivid memory of my father and me setting out the luminaria candles around our property, and then standing in the garage drinking eggnog and chatting until my mom finally sent my brother out to see if we were okay. Just as we turned to head inside, snow started to fall ... and we just stood there together, arm in arm, silently watching. It looked like a picture postcard!

ib4b: Oh, that sounds wonderful and beautiful and so special! Name three words that you associate with Christmas.

SDB: Jesus. Jesus. Jesus.

ib4b: How will your family celebrate Christmas this year?

SDB: I don't have any family (just like Joss in Once Upon a Jingle Bell!), but this year I'll have just moved back to Ohio and will spend it with my BFF of 40+ years. I can hardly wait!

ib4b: That sounds like a lot of fun! What is the best gift you’ve ever given?

SDB: I spent 6 months compiling autographed photos and hand-written notes from film actors, directors and screenwriters, and then I put it all together into an album for a close friend who had just started working on his first film project.

ib4b: Who gave you the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received? What was it?

SDB: My friend David gave me the full box set of The Dick Van Dyke Show.

ib4b: I love that show! Tell me about the Christmas tradition that means the most to you.

SDB: I always loved Christmas morning when we would sit on the floor in our pajamas and dig into our stockings!

ib4b: How do you keep your focus on Christ during this hectic but wondrous time of year?

SDB: I don't really allow the holiday to become hectic and "commercialized" any more. My Christmases are mostly quiet and Christ-centered anyway.

What is your favorite ...

• Christmas movie? The Bishop's Wife with Cary Grant
• Christmas song? O Holy Night
• Christmas treat? My  mom used to make these wonderful butter cookies with a cookie gun in the shapes of Christmas trees, stars and poinsettias. 
• Christmas smell? Eggnog coffee brewing, very early on Christmas morning.
• Christmas children’s book?
 The Christmas Story

About Sandra D. Bricker

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

The Big 5-OH! was released by Abingdon Press in the Spring of 2010, and the novel was very well-received, garnering a couple of nibbles from Hollywood.

Always the Baker, Never the Bride was released by Abingdon Press in September 2010. With its phenomenal reviews, the novel spawned a series of three more books based on the popular cast of characters at The Tanglewood Inn, a wedding destination hotel in historic Roswell, Georgia. The series cemented Sandie's spot in publishing as a flagship author of Laugh-Out-Loud romantic comedy for the inspirational market.

"Being allowed to combine my faith and my humor with my writing dream," says Bricker, "well, that's the best of all worlds, as far as I'm concerned!"

Connect with Sandra D. Bricker

Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter

Giveaway

And because I loved this book SO much, I'm giving my copy away. Y'all, I really struggled with wanting to keep it and read it again, so I hope whoever wins it loves it! *wink*  Giveaway is open to residents of the US only and ends December 10. Enter using 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. ***

Aloha Rose by Lisa Carter

Aloha Rose
by Lisa Carter
Quilts of Love series, Book 12
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available November 2013
Abingdon Press
240 pages

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About the Book

Can searching your past create a new beginning or just new frustration? 

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

My Thoughts
With winter fully upon us now, who wouldn't want to read a book set in a tropical paradise? The cover alone had me feeling a bit warmer as I snuggled under three blankets to read Aloha Rose! I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Hawaii through Lisa Carter's eyes. She made the islands come alive with her use of Hawaiian words, traditions, and culture. While I didn't initially like Laney or Kai very much (they were a little hard to connect with), I eventually liked them a lot. As their "issues" came to light and explained their actions, I understood them better and really rooted for them to overcome their pasts.

As much as I wanted to love this book, I didn't. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the read, but there were several flaws that kept it from being great (for me). The romance moved really fast. The beginning of the romantic relationship between Laney and Kai came out of left field and then stopped and started a lot. It was just confusing. The end came together really quickly—too quickly. There was a ton going on throughout the book. For 240 pages, I felt like it was too much. And the end had a really intense arc that just didn't mesh with the rest of the book. Finally, there were many places throughout where the phrasing was ... odd. I caught myself reading and re-reading whole paragraphs trying to make sure I understood what was being said. It was just confusing.

If you're looking for a quick read or a romantic story, you might enjoy this book. Especially if you're looking for an armchair vacation to Hawaii! [3 stars]

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

About the Author

Lisa Carter is the author of Carolina Reckoning and Aloha Rose, and a writer and teacher whose articles have appeared in FamilyFun, Thriving Family, MomSense, and Christian Parenting Today. She is a frequent speaker and vocalist at women’s ministry events and has taught at the collegiate, high school, and middle school levels. Lisa is a member of ACFW, RWA and Sisters in Crime. When she isn't writing, Lisa enjoys traveling, quilting, and researching her next romantic adventure. She and her husband have two daughters and make their home in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Lisa Carter Online

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Greetings from the Flipside by Rene Gutteridge

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Greetings from the Flipside
by
Rene Gutteridge

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Read an excerpt
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About the Book

Hope Landon has been rewriting other people's greeting cards since she was six years old -- there's always a funnier caption. She's all set to chase those creative dreams with her musician fiance in New York City until he leaves Hope at the altar, deciding he must not really love this girl if he can't write a song for her. That may give her something to write about . . .

Hope disappears alone on what was supposed to be the couple's month long honeymoon. Upon returning she learns of her funeral -- everyone in her life concluded Hope must have killed herself after being jilted. Needing a fresh start more than ever, she heads for the Big Apple only to discover it's not that easy to rent a place when you've been declared dead.

Taking shelter at the YWCA, Hope soon lands a job at a Christian inspirational greeting card company as an assistant to Jake, a guy who shut down his organization's humor department. She has lost her faith in love; he needs to find something or someone that will make him laugh.

Is there anything in the cards for these two? Find out in the truly original Greetings from the Flipside by authors Rene Gutteridge (Boo) and Cheryl McKay (screenplay for The Ultimate Gift).

About the Author

Rene is the author of seventeen novels. She also has extensive experience writing comedy sketches, and worked for five years as the director of drama for a church. She has a degree specializing in Screenwriting, for which she earned the Excellence in Mass Communication Award, and graduated magna cum laude.

She is married to Sean, a musician and worship leader, and has two children. They reside in Oklahoma, where Rene writes full time and enjoys instructing in college classrooms and writers conferences.

Rene Gutteridge Online

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Another Fun Read from Cheryl Wyatt

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Nurse's Secret Suitor
by
Cheryl Wyatt

The Nurse's Secret Suitor
by Cheryl Wyatt
Eagle Point Emergency series, Book 3
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available October 2013
Harlequin Love Inspired
224 pages

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About the Book

Trauma nurse Kate Dalton can handle any challenge—except love. The combat veteran dreams of settling down, but heartbreak is one risk she won't take. Then a chance encounter opens her heart to a masked stranger…who might not be a stranger after all! Caleb Landis, the army medic behind the disguise, has always admired Kate, even though she only saw him as her best friend's brother. What will it take for Kate to discard her fears and discover the man she's always hoped to unmask?

My Thoughts

The Nurse's Secret Suitor was a fun read! I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Kate better after reading the previous two books in the series. And Caleb wasn't too shabby either. :) They're relationship progressed slowly and was really more of a friendship for most of the book—kind of a nice change from many books when the characters fall in love in a matter of days.

Some of Caleb's choices (mainly to keep his alter-identity a secret) really frustrated me at times. It seemed deceptive, and I couldn't believe how long he kept the charade going on. But I was at least happy that he was struggling with the decision.

All in all, I thought this was a sweet romance, and I'm so glad I found this series! I look forward to reading more books from Cheryl Wyatt in the future!  [4 stars]

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

About the Author

Cheryl Wyatt's closest friends would never dream of the mayhem she plots during announcements at church. A Registered Nurse-turned-Stay-at-Home-Mom, joyful chaos rules her home and she delights in the stealth moments God gives her to write. She stays active in her church and in her laundry room. She's convinced that having been born on a naval base on Valentine's Day destined her to write military romance.

Her debut novels, A Soldier's Promise and A Soldier's Family release from Steeple Hill publishers in January and March 2008. Prior to publication, Cheryl was published in non-fiction and had six manuscripts place in twelve RWA contests.

Cheryl Wyatt Online

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Made to Last by Melissa Tagg

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

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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

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A Heart-Warming Story from Sandra D. Bricker

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Raw Edges
by
Sandra D. Bricker

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Raw Edges
by Sandra D. Bricker
Quilts of Love series, Book 10
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available September 2013
Abingdon Press
256 pages

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About the Book

Grayson McDonough has no use for teal ribbons, 5k runs, or ovarian cancer support groups now that his beautiful wife Jenna is gone. But their nine-year-old daughter Sadie seems to need the connection. When Annabelle Curtis, the beautiful cancer survivor organizing the memory quilt project for the Ovacome support group, begins to bring out the silly and fun side of his precious daughter again, Gray must set aside his own grief to support the healing of Sadie’s young heart. But is there hope for Gray’s heart too along the way?

My Thoughts

Oh my! I knew that Sandie wrote funny books, but I didn't know she could write funny books that would tug my heartstrings like Raw Edges did! Raw Edges introduces readers to four of the most lovable characters I've read about in a long time. Gray and Sadie are still reeling from the loss of their wife and mother a year earlier. Annabelle is dedicating her time to volunteer for Ovacome, a support group that helped her through the worst time in her life. And Miss Essie is encouraging all three of them as they try to move on from the cancer that tried to steal the joy from their lives. The characters were so fun that they felt like friends. I also loved the idea of telling a story through a quilt. It was fun to see everyone get caught up in the project and the project move them toward deeper relationships with one another.

There were a few times that I wished for a little more. For instance, was the fact that Annabelle was an ovarian cancer survivor (the same disease that killed Gray's wife) not a problem for him as he began falling for her? Surely it was. But those little things were just that ... little. Most of the time, though, I wanted more because I just loved the story so much and wasn't ready for it to be over. 

From start to finish this books was charming and I was totally caught up in it. As I finished Raw Edges in the wee hours of the morning, I turned the last page with a satisfied sigh. Bricker outdid herself! I would say this is my favorite of hers so far! [4.5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from Abingdon Press and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author

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

The Big 5-OH! was released by Abingdon Press in the Spring of 2010, and the novel was very well-received, garnering a couple of nibbles from Hollywood.

Always the Baker, Never the Bride was released by Abingdon Press in September 2010. With its phenomenal reviews, the novel spawned a series of three more books based on the popular cast of characters at The Tanglewood Inn, a wedding destination hotel in historic Roswell, Georgia. The series cemented Sandie's spot in publishing as a flagship author of Laugh-Out-Loud romantic comedy for the inspirational market.

"Being allowed to combine my faith and my humor with my writing dream," says Bricker, "well, that's the best of all worlds, as far as I'm concerned!"

Connect with Sandra D. Bricker

Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter

CFBA Blog Tour | Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta

Born of Persuasion
by Jessica Dotta
Price of Privilege series, Book 1
Christian Fiction / Historical
Available September 2013
Tyndale House
448 pages

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About the Book

The year is 1838, and seventeen-year-old Julia Elliston’s position has never been more fragile. Orphaned and unmarried in a time when women are legal property of their fathers, husbands, and guardians, she finds herself at the mercy of an anonymous guardian who plans to establish her as a servant in far-off Scotland.

With two months to devise a better plan, Julia’s first choice to marry her childhood sweetheart is denied. But when a titled dowager offers to introduce Julia into society, a realm of possibilities opens. However, treachery and deception are as much a part of Victorian society as titles and decorum, and Julia quickly discovers her present is deeply entangled with her mother’s mysterious past. Before she knows what’s happening, Julia finds herself a pawn in a deadly game between two of the country’s most powerful men. With no laws to protect her, she must unravel the secrets on her own. But sometimes truth is elusive and knowledge is deadly.

My Thoughts

Unfortunately, I haven't finished this book yet. However, let me share my first impressions with you. While I found the beginning quite confusing, I pushed through that first chapter and started putting the pieces together. And I'm so glad I did. This book is completely different than anything I can remember reading in quite some time. Maybe ever. It's dark and twisty, and there's a hint of romance to come. The story is complex and the characters are numerous, but so far I'm enjoying getting to know them.

The author has been compared numerous times to Emily and Charlotte Bronte and Jane Austen; however, since I have never read anything by any of these three classic authors (except the Cliffs notes of Wuthering Heights ... gasp!), I couldn't tell you if this is true or not. But if you're intrigued by the comparison, you might want to check this book out. :)

Update (6/16/2014): Well, nine months later and I have still not finished this book. I have picked it up and tried to finish several times, but it's just not capturing my full attention. I really don't like the main character and am a bit confused as to what's going on. Add to that the fact that this is a really "dark" book, and I'm just not into it. At the halfway point, I'm setting this book aside and marking it as DNF. There are a lot of readers who seem to have really enjoyed it. Sadly, I'm not wone of them.

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

About the Author

Born in the wrong century–except for the fact that she really likes epidurals and washing machines–Jessica Dotta writes British historicals with the humor like an Austen, yet the drama of a Bronte.

She resides lives in the greater Nashville area—where she imagines her small Southern town into the foggy streets of 19th century London. She oversees her daughter to school, which they pretend is an English boarding school, and then she goes home to write and work on PR. Jessica has tried to cast her dachshund as their butler–but the dog insists it’s a Time Lord and their home a Tardis. Miss Marple, her cat, says its no mystery to her as to why the dog won’t cooperate. When asked about it, Jessica sighs and says that you can’t win them all, and at least her dog has picked something British to emulate.

Jessica Dotta Online

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CFBA Blog Tour | Shades of Mercy

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Shades of Mercy
by
Anita Lustrea & Caryn Rivadeneira

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Shades of Mercy
by Anita Lustrea & Caryn Rivadeneira
Christian Fiction / Historical
Available September 2013
River North
272 pages

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About the Book

It's 1954 and the world-even the far Northwoods of Maine-is about to change. But that change can't happen soon enough for fourteen-year-old Mercy Millar. Long tired of being the "son" her father never had, Mercy's ready for the world to embrace her as the young woman she is-as well as embrace the forbidden love she feels.  

When childhood playmates grow up and fall in love, the whole community celebrates. But in the case of Mercy and Mick, there would be no celebration. Instead their relationship must stay hidden. Good girls do not date young men from the Maliseet tribe. At least, not in Watsonville, Maine. When racial tensions escalate and Mick is thrown in jail under suspicion of murder, Mercy nearly loses all hope-in love, in her father, and in God himself.

My Thoughts

Shades of Mercy is a coming-of-age story set in Maine in the 1950s. While racial tensions were coming to a head in the South during this time, the authors tell an eye-opening story of racial tension between the Maliseet Indians and the white citizens of Watsonville, Maine.

I loved the premise of this book and was hopeful to fall in love with the people of this small, 1950s town. However, while the writing style had a beautiful, literary quality, I never really connected with the story or the characters. Additionally, the pace of the story itself was quite slow, and I had to really push myself to keep reading. I felt that there were many times when the authors were telling me things that they could have been showing me.

I did love the many lessons to be learned from this book—of treating people with respect, showing God's mercy with our actions and not only our words, the dangers of prejudice. In fact, it reminded me in many ways of the classic books that we read in middle school. While this wasn't the best fit for me, there are probably many who will enjoy it. [2.5 stars]

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

About the Authors

Authentic. That’s the word heard over and over when women describe Anita Lustrea. She is a popular speaker at women’s conferences and retreats, and an amazing communicator as co-host of the award winning Midday Connection radio broadcast. Her deep desire is to communicate freedom to women and help them nurture and care for their soul. 

Anita is the co-author of Come to Our Table: A Midday Connection Cookbook and Daily Seeds from Women Who Walk in Faith, a devotional for women. Her first solo venture as an author released in November 2010, What Women Tell Me: Finding Freedom from the Secrets We Keep. Anita and her pastor husband, Mike Murphy, along with her teenage son John live in the Chicago suburbs. When she’s not traveling or speaking, you can find her reading and drinking a venti hot tea at her local Starbucks.

Anita Lustrea Online

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Caryn Rivadeneira is a sought-after writer and speaker. She’s the author of four books—Shades of Mercy: A Maine Chronicle, Known & Loved: 52 Devotions from the Psalms, Grumble Hallelujah, and Mama’s Got a Fake I.D.—and a regular contributor to Christianity Today’s Her.Meneutics as well as columnist for Re:Frame Media’s ThinkChristian blog. She has written dozens of magazine article. Her work has appeared in such publications as Christianity Today, Relevant, FamilyLife, and Engineering and Mining Journal (you read that right). 

Caryn leads workshops and speaks at conferences and church groups across the country. She’s also a regular guest on Moody Radio’s Midday Connection with Anita Lustrea and Melinda Schmidt and has been featured on such radio shows as The John and Kathy Show, Changing Worldviews/WOMANTalk with Sharon Hughes, I Thought She Said with Faith Daly, The Paul Edwards Program with Paul Edwards, and Talk from the Heart with Rich Buhler, among many others. Caryn also appeared on The Harvest Show. 

 Caryn earned a B.A. in English from Calvin College and attended the University of Chicago’s publishing program. She lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with her husband, Rafael, her three kids, a rescued pit bull terrier, two hermit crabs, and several tank fulls of who-knows-what-kind-of fish. Caryn and her family are members of Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church in Elmhurst, Illinois, where Caryn recently joined the worship staff. 

Caryn Rivadeneira Online

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