Inspirational Ebooks

Play It Again by Tracy Krauss

2012-01-16T08:34:00.000-08:00

Inspirational Romance

Sparks fly when an ex rock and roll junkie and a stuffy accountant rendezvous at a local resort, but neither are prepared for the emotional entanglements, family complications, and a threat from the past that unexpectedly resurfaces. Set in the 1980′s, this story brings two opposing forces together in a clash of romance and danger, while its musical undertones highlight the theme that God can turn anything into beautiful music. PLAY IT AGAIN is the much anticipated prequel to AND THE BEAT GOES ON. Find out where Mark Graham's journey began in this, the story of his parents.

Excerpt:

Chapter One

Smokey tendrils drifted in time to the soft strains of jazz music that filled the dimly lit lounge. Russ Graham surveyed the clusters of patrons at each small circular table, resting on the troupe of aging jazz musicians for a moment, before focusing on the amber liquid swirling in his own glass. It was not the kind of place he normally frequented, but business had brought him out to the island for a few days and there wasn’t much else to do in the evening – alone.

Earlier he’d noticed a sign in the hotel lobby advertising the Jazz ensemble. "Jack Burton Band" the sign read. Russ had a vague recollection of that name and thought he might as well check it out. He looked a little more closely at the aging troop and decided that Jack Burton must be the one wielding the saxophone and counting out the time. He was small and wiry, with thinning hair- probably in his early to mid sixties. Next, there was a burly, white haired, black man on the drums; a gangly, hawk nosed man bending over the piano; and a stocky man with longish gray hair and a mustache leaning on a big, bass violin.

Despite the band’s aging appearance, the bluesy jazz that came from their instruments seemed to transcend all barriers of age and time. Russ closed his eyes for a moment and let the strains of music wash over him. How long had it been since he just let himself relax? Just let go and be. Too long. Much too long.

He quickly opened his eyes. Guilt and pride – his two constant companions – would not allow even this brief reprieve. He should probably just head back up to his room. He needed an early start tomorrow in order to finish up his business and head back to Winnipeg. Mark was in good hands at his mother’s house, but he didn’t like leaving him for too long. He took his responsibilities seriously, and he didn’t like pawning his son off on others – even his own mother.

Russ raised the tumbler to his lips and downed the rest of the fiery liquid. As if on cue, a pretty waitress was there to whisk the glass away and offer another. “Um … I guess another wouldn’t hurt,” Russ said, glancing at his watch. It was only 9:30. He didn’t drink much, as a rule, but one more was no big deal. Besides. Who was here to see?

As the waitress retreated on her errand, Russ glanced around the room once again. What little light there was in the room cast an ethereal glow about the crowd. His gaze stopped at a young woman, sitting completely enraptured at a small table near the stage. Her hair, which was very short, appeared to be some shade of red, although it was difficult to tell in this light. Large hoop earrings hung at her ears, swaying with her in time to the music. She looked awfully young to be in a bar, but then again, there was also a sense of worldliness about her - a strange combination of girl and woman.

He was jolted back to reality by a resounding slap across the back. “Hey, bro! Fancy meeting you here!”

“What the …? What are you two doing here?” Russ sputtered.

Ken Graham, Russ’s older brother, stood next to him grinning, his wife Kathy hovering nearby. The contrast in appearance between the two brothers was as marked as their personalities. Ken was well over six feet tall, broad and well built, with sandy blonde hair and twinkling eyes. Although he was already thirty-seven, his boyish expression allowed him to pass for a much younger man. Russ, on the other hand, usually wore a firmly set look about his chiseled features. His dark blue eyes held a deep intensity and his hair, which was dark and wavy, he wore in a neatly trimmed, conservative style. Shorter than his older brother, he still maintained a powerful, trim physique.

“Didn’t I tell you me and Kath were coming out to Hecla for the weekend?," Ken asked as he plunked himself unceremoniously into the chair opposite Russ.

“No, I don’t recall anything about it,” Russ muttered.

“Hm. Must have forgot,” Ken shrugged. “The company’s having a sales convention. Wives are invited so Kathy came along.” Ken raised a hand and caught the eye of the oncoming waitress. Hecla Island was a popular spot for business meetings. It was a scenic location just a two hour drive from the city of Winnipeg and offered first class facilities. “What about you? I didn’t expect to see you here.”

“My firm does their books, remember?” Russ answered, his scowl deepening as the waitress arrived with his scotch.

“What have we here?” Ken queried, raising his eyebrows. “Looks like we caught you red handed.”

“I’m not allowed to have a drink?” Russ asked.

“No, go ahead,” Ken laughed. “It’s just good to see you take off your priest’s collar once in awhile.”

Russ clamped his jaw tight. He wasn’t about to react to his brother’s jibes. “Where are the kids?’ he directed at Kathy.

“Your mother’s,” Kathy sighed, as if that explained everything.

Russ frowned. “Oh. I guess three isn’t too much for her to handle . . .”

“Relax,” Ken said. “You’ve got nothing to worry about. At least your kid isn’t a brat like some people’s.” He jerked his head in Kathy’s direction.

“They’re your kids, too, remember?” Kathy quipped. “Or have you forgotten already?”

“What ever you say,” Ken shrugged, taking a large swig of the beer that had just arrived. He leaned in toward Russ conspiratorially. “Greg's not used to staying overnight without his mommy," he snorted.

“He’s only five,” Kathy sniffed, digging for a cigarette.

“She keeps babying the kid. No wonder he's such a brat," Ken continued.

"I hated to leave them, the way your mother was carrying on," Kathy explained, taking a long drag on her cigarette.

"Do you have to blow that right in my face?” Ken complained, waving at the smoke. “And just what did that mean anyway?"

"You know exactly what I mean," Kathy said, expelling another puff of smoke. "She's always trying to interfere with how we raise our children." Ken grunted dismissively. “No, I mean it! She's always pushing all that religious garbage at them. I've had it with them coming home and asking me if I'm going to heaven or hell. It's scaring them."

“A little fire and brimstone never hurt anybody,” Ken defended. “Look at me. I turned out okay.”

“Fine example," Russ noted dry.

“Oh, right, " Ken snorted. “Mr. Perfect talking."

“Is he always this sociable?" Russ asked Kathy, striving for lightness.

“Only on good days," Kathy laughed humorlessly, stubbing out her cigarette.

Ken tipped his beer back and guzzled the rest as if in some kind of competition. “Ah!” he breathed, followed by a loud burp. “What’s a guy got to do to get another drink around here?” Kathy just rolled her eyes. “Hey, bro. Order us another round while I take my wife for a spin,” Ken said. "How about it, Kath? Wanna dance?” He was already dragging her toward the dance floor.

Russ watched the pair with a combination of amusement and pity. Kathy was now laughing breathlessly up at Ken, obviously happy to be the recipient of some positive attention. It was a shame that it took liquor.

His attention was caught by another couple on the dance floor. It was the girl that Russ had noticed earlier, dancing with Jack Burton, the aging saxophone player who had laid aside his instrument while the rest of the troupe carried on. Mismatched as they were, they seemed to dance as one with energetic abandon. And despite what Russ considered to be her somewhat unbecoming attire – cut off jeans, a turtle neck sweater and hiking boots - there was something provocative about the way she moved with such grace and fluidity, totally unembarrassed. In fact, she seemed oblivious to any onlookers, so immersed was she in the dance.

When the song ended, the young woman and her partner retreated to her table, laughing. The other band members took a break and joined them. The older men seemed very familiar with her. Especially the leader. He placed a possessive arm about her shoulders and was leaning in close to whisper in her ear. Something rose up suddenly within Russ’s chest. Disapproval? Disgust? Envy, maybe?

He slammed back the rest of his scotch, wiping his mouth just as Ken and Kathy reappeared.

"Did you see that couple out there?" Kathy enthused. "Weren’t they great? Just like out of a movie!"

“The old man certainly seems lively for his age,” Russ offered with a shrug.

“I wasn't lookin' at the old man," Ken guffawed with a wink. "Mm-mm. Them’s a great set of legs!"

"I didn’t notice."

“Oh right,” Ken laughed. “You can fool most of the people most of the time, but this is your bro, here, man. I know you’ve still got some red blood in there somewhere, no matter what you want people to believe.”

“Whatever. She’s not my type.”

“She too skinny for you?" Ken asked.

“Just drop it,” Russ responded tightly.

“Maybe it’s been so long, you forgot how . . .”

“Shut up," Russ clipped.

“I know Miranda was a bitch, but -"

“I said, shut up." Russ rose from the table, his anger barely contained.

“Where you going?’ Ken demanded.

“To my room. Goodnight.” Russ turned sharply and headed for the exit. For a moment the three Scotch that he’d downed rather abruptly went straight to his head. He slowed his pace just enough to regain his bearings and then continued toward the door.

Directly in front of him, also nearing the exit, were the wiry old musician and the strange young woman. She had her arm slung casually around his shoulders, while his encircled her slim waist. Another wave of – something - flooded Russ’s body as he watched them. He told himself it was loathing, but other parts of his anatomy whispered ‘lust’. Probably just the Scotch. He wasn’t used to drinking anymore.

Who cared, anyway? What wayward girls did with aging jazz musicians was really no concern of his. So why couldn’t he get her image out of his head?

Author Bio:

Tracy Krauss is a high school teacher by profession, and a prolific author, artist, playwright and director by choice. She received her Bachelor's degree from the University of Saskatchewan and has gone on to teach Art, Drama and English -- all the things she is passionate about. After raising four children, she and her husband now reside in beautiful Tumbler Ridge, BC where she continues to pursue all of her creative interests. Her first two books, AND THE BEAT GOES ON and MY MOTHER THE MAN-EATER, were both nominated for the 'Indie Excellence Book Awards' for religious fiction in 2011. A third novel, PLAY IT AGAIN, the much anticipated prequel to her first book has just been released. Tracy also has one stage play in print

Reviews/Notices/Awards:

This is one best comtemporary novels I've read all year. I started reading this book yesterday and read until I had to go to bed last night, then finished it this morning. For me, this is the kind of novel that is very hard to put down. I read into the wee hours. I didn't want to sleep and just wanted to read this book. The tension kept building and building. While some elements of the story are common to romance novels, the author did such a great job putting the elements together and making it compelling. The setting, characters, and dialog brought me back to the 1980s, and parts of the story felt like they could have come from my life. ~ Michelle Sutton, author of NEVER WITHOUT HOPE and THEIR SEPARATE WAYS

Why did Tracy write PLAY IT AGAIN?

I like redemption stories and PLAY IT AGAIN is just that. I also like the fact that God doesn’t wait for us to get our lives together before calling us, and even after the call, He doesn’t expect us to become something we aren’t. We still have certain God given personality traits – ‘quirks’ and flaws that He then uses to reach other ‘quirky’, flawed people. I’m also fascinated by the ‘opposites attract’ syndrome and this certainly is highlighted in this story. Sometimes I think God has a terrific sense of humor when He brings people together, again because he knows what we need better than we do. The two main characters in PLAY IT AGAIN are flawed, quirky, definitely polar opposites, and certainly not typical – all factors that make them ideal candidates in God’s eyes. Finally, I set this book back in the 1980s because this is the era of my own conversion and the story made sense to me coming from this time and social fabric.

Purchase Links:

Amazon.com - http://www.amazon.com/Play-Again-Tracy-Krauss/dp/1612043925/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326725794&sr=1-1

Barnes and Noble - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/play-it-again-tracy-krauss/1107838968

Publisher - http://sbpra.com/tracykrauss/

Daffodils by Donna B. Snow

2011-12-29T15:45:00.000-08:00

Inspirational Romance

Margaret Ellington is not only grief stricken after her husband dies, but guilt ridden as well. Her solution—to run away. She moves away, hoping to escape the memories of her failure as a wife. She vows never to marry again unless she can love with all her heart—and she’ll never be able to do that unless she can finally get over her first love.

Lukas North is determined to reclaim the love he threw away ten years earlier. He’s willing to give Margaret time to recover from losing her husband—but letting her go is not an option.

When Lukas keeps a secret from Margaret about a major career move, she panics. After the mistakes they made in the past, can their relationship be rebuilt on anything less than complete honesty?

Excerpt:

After dinner, everyone headed for their vehicles while Margaret smiled and waved her thanks. Once again, Lukas stood at her side, his shoulder brushing against hers as he smiled and waved alongside her as if they had both moved.

She took a deep breath and turned to him, studying his face as the last of the vehicles pulled out onto the street. Soft brown hair fell into his eyes, reminding her of the boy she once loved. She fisted her hand to keep from brushing it back for him like she had done so many times in the past.

Returning her look, Lukas took both her hands in his strong ones, smoothing her fist. He lifted a knuckle to her cheekbone, the gesture melting a small piece of her heart.

She had to remind herself his sympathy was ten years too late.

“I wish I could change the past, that things could have been different a long time ago.”

Margaret looked down at their hands and folded her fingers over his. She couldn’t deal with that discussion now…maybe ever. “We can’t change history. Ten years ago you made your choices.” She shrugged, holding herself stiff, her voice flat. “Let’s not dredge it up now. We were just kids.” She couldn’t go there. She would shatter if the wrong words were spoken. Dear Lord, give me strength. You promised not to give me more than I can handle, Lord. Well, I’m nearly there. Please…She turned away, blinking back tears.

Why did Donna write Daffodils?

I see Daffodils as being all about new beginnings and second chances. God is the mastermind of both. He's wonderful at allowing new birth to come out of the most tragic of circumstances in our lives, even when we can't see what He lays before us.

Author Bio:

Donna is a native New Englander, and she loves the change of seasons, although she loves winter less and less as it seems to get longer each year. But you can't beat the beauty of fall colors, or the smell of things coming to life in spring. She'd love to have her readers join her in this, the springtime of her writing. She writes inspirational romances and women's fiction, as well as Christian music.

Purchase Links:

Amazon (including Kindle). http://tinyurl.com/cskxnne

Barnes & Noble (including Nook). http://tinyurl.com/d8667sk

Angels of the Heart by Regina Andrews

2011-12-10T22:19:00.000-08:00

Inspirational Romance

T.V. personality Maryanne Lynch believes in progress, but when developer Travis Collimore insists on knocking down a local landmark, how far will her faith in the town take her?

The life of a television journalist has been good to Maryanne Lynch and life in Sterling Lakes suits her well. That is, until she learns of developer Travis Collimore’s plans to destroy a local landmark, the Townsend Barn along with its rare angel weather vane, as part of the renovations of St. Luke’s Church. The reappearance of her former high school friend who moved away years earlier turns Maryanne’s life into a series of events which put her values, her character and her beliefs to the test. Will she be able to maintain her professional and ethical standards in the face of a ghost from the past…who looks to be clouding her future?

Excerpt:

Chapter One

"That's a wrap, everyone, thank you. Another great show."

Reviewing the studio audience, WMAS television host Maryanne Lynch started to remove her earpiece as usual and roll the wire into a neat coil. This time though, the stone on her diamond engagement ring snagged the strands of her sleek black bob, tangling up the wire and interrupting her thoughts. She freed herself only to have the ring hitch again, this time catching the jacket pocket of her cappuccino business suit as she tried to slip her earpiece safely inside it.

Kirk Blackstone, her producer, approached her. "Maryanne, there's a bunch of girl scouts here. Doing some badge about media careers. Can you meet with them?"

"Sure, in the conference room. Just give me one minute, okay?"

She moved through the studio, scanning the crowd while remaining intent on her purpose. "I had to wear a pencil skirt today," she mumbled. One of the guests today had looked familiar, but she couldn't put her finger on it. She hurried to catch up with him, while considering an even more pressing matter about the show’s topic.

When she turned the final corner before the studio exit doors, she spotted him. With his tall frame and blond hair, he stood out in the crowded lobby area.

"Excuse me!"

"Yes?"

"Thank you for visiting the show today."

His brown eyes traveled up and down her frame. "No problem."

"Everyone is all worked up about the renovations to St. Luke's Church and the new face of Sterling Lakes. It's a hot topic."

"It's good the town folks are interested."

"They are more than interested, they are reborn. This is the new lease on life that Sterling Lakes has been praying for so very long. You can't imagine what it means to us."

"Heartwarming. Now, if you'll excuse me?"

Maryanne had done enough interviews to know his tone of voice probably meant he was not really interested. She took one step closer to him. "There's just another thing to clear up. If you develop St. Luke's the way you explained on my show, it means you'll have to raze the Townsend Barn."

"There is a structure--"

"Townsend Barn."

He nodded. "There is a structure, Townsend Barn, thank you, which currently stands right in the middle of the land that will house the rectory and youth center. To build the extension, the barn has to go."

"That can't happen."

"The architect has designed for it to happen that way."

"The people of Sterling Lakes love the barn. It has an angel weather vane. That's very rare, you know."

"I don't know what to tell you. The plans have been drawn up and approved."

Maryanne arched one eyebrow. "Really? We all know plans are made to be broken."

"Some of us do. Especially you."

Reviews/Notices/Awards:

In Angels of the Heart, the second in her Sterling Lakes series, Regina Andrews again delivers a moving story in which true-to-life characters confront real life challenges, and in facing these challenges reveal their own depth of character and faith. MaryAnne's efforts to reconcile her past with her present adult worldview, her emotions with her principles, will resonate with readers. The power of her faith gives her the courage to follow those principles and provides direction and meaning beyond what she could have imagined. The outstanding quality of Andrews' writing, and the believable characters and situations she has created, allow the reader to both escape from their own reality AND learn valuable lessons about dealing with such conflicts. A must-read! ~~ Amazon Reader Review

Angels of the Heart is a great book.Please read as it is a wonderful read.The entire series is excellent,and well worth the time.In fact I have read the entire Sterling Lakes series and it is excellent,so please all readers please be aware of the author Regina Andrews who is really making a name for herself in the literary world. ~~ Amazon Reader Review

Why did Regina write Angles of the Heart?

So much of myself and where I come from is in Sterling Lakes. This particular story deals in part with the traditions of the past clashing with the progress of the future. A conflict of this nature can be represented in physical, tangible structures such as the Townsend Barn, or in a personal mentality or outlook, as the we see in the heroine and hero questioning their values.

I think moving forward is a wonderful thing, and that real progress does not mean just hastily denouncing all past values, or quickly destroying physical parts of the past. Reaching this level of insight can be very isolating, though.

That's why we have "Angels" today -- I want readers to connect with this process, saying 'aha!' when the characters look deeply, honestly, within and muster up the courage to fight for something that might not be too popular. Understanding this, and feeling connected to others who have gone through the same type of thing, lends a healthy perspective to our lives as individuals and to our communities, too. Which can only lead to happy endings!

Author Bio:

Award-winning author Regina Andrews, a resident of Providence, RI, grew up in the nearby seaside village of Barrington. After graduating from Providence College she attended the University of Delaware, eventually earning her Master’s Degree in American Civilization from Brown University. The author of six inspirational romances, Regina is currently working on the nine-book Sterling Lakes Series for Desert Breeze Publishing. In November 2010, he book “Destiny’s Designs” won the AKW Books 2010 eBook of the Year award for Fiction. Her hobbies include travel, museums, theater, reading, music, singing and gardening. Regina is involved in numerous community organizations and is also a radio host for InSight, an association for the visually impaired. She and her husband share their home with a semi-feral cat named Queen Tiana, whom they rescued from a shelter.

Purchase Links:

Amazion (including Kindle). http://tinyurl.com/c7g2h8z

Barnes & Noble (including Nook). http://tinyurl.com/d9u6bvc

Desert Breeze: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-189/Regina-Andrews-Angels-of/Detail.bok

Regina's website. www.reginaandrews.com

THE HUGUENOT SWORD by Shawn Lamb

2011-12-08T07:55:00.000-08:00

Christian Historical Fiction

In the time of Louis XIII and Cardinal Richelieu, when being a Protestant could mean death, The Huguenot Sword roamed the streets of Paris by night, defending those faithful to the young heretical religion. The nobility scorned them as ruffians. To the oppressed Protestants they were saviors, but to the Cardinal’s Guards they were a pestilence needing to be terminated.

The situation becomes desperate when those in power launch a bold plan to destroy the group. One wrong move can be fatal. But the ordeal of Paris pales in comparison to the possible annihilation of the faith and people at the Battle of La Rochelle.

Excerpt:

Chapter 1

A large man of twenty-three years, dressed in black doublet, breeches and cloak stood by the door. He peeked out the small opening of the door into the dark night. Standing several inches over six feet, he had to look down through the opening. He shrugged the cloak over his shoulder to move for a better view. The black gloves he wore were stretched to the brink of ripping in an attempt to cover his massive hands. Thick sable hair hung like a wavy mane about his face. On the table in the center of the room were a large black hat and mask.

Beside the table stood a young man of roughly the same age, only a head shorter and thirty pounds lighter. His black outfit was almost identical to his companion and he wore the black mask. He held his hat, fingers nervous in clenching the brim. Even with the mask, his blonde hair and mustache were in marked contrast to his dark disguise. The lamp on the table burned low, yet danced in his hazel eyes, which changed shades with his mood. His focus shifted from a hallway leading further into the house to the door.

“Dominic,” he hissed to get the attention of the other. “Any sign of the Cardinal’s men?”

“No.” Dominic turned from his vigil to glance down the hall. “What of Arsène?”

“Nothing yet, and they should be ready to leave.”

Both became alert at hearing running feet coming down the hall and a harsh call, “Make ready!”

Dominic slammed the opening shut and moved to stand beside his companion.

“Arsène,” he said to Dominic upon recognizing the voice.

A third young man dressed in identical clothes appeared, only with black hair, clean-shaven, handsome features and blue eyes illuminated by the candlelight. He removed his hat, tossed it onto the table and withdrew a mask from his doublet pocket to put on.

They mimicked Arsène in donning the masks and placing their hats securely on their heads.

“De Lacy?” Arsène asked Dominic.

“No. Maybe we succeeded in thwarting the traitor.”

“Whether we did or didn’t, does not change what must be done. Philipe, the west route,” he said to the blond man then held out his right arm. “For faith.”

“For friendship,” said Philipe, taking hold of Arsène’s arm.

“For freedom,” said Dominic, adding his hand to make a triangle of clasped arms.

After a nod from Arsène, Dominic returned to the door. He waited for Philipe to extinguish the lamp before opening the door enough to poke his head out and look up and down the street. “All clear.”

Arsène moved to the hallway and called in the same voice as earlier. “Go!” He turned and waved to Philipe. The latter took the lead in leaving the house, followed by Arsène and Dominic.

At the corner, Arsène stopped and gazed intently down an adjacent alley. Philipe halted across the boulevard when he noticed Arsène stop. Dominic fell in behind Philipe.

“Well?” asked Philipe.

Arsène moved to join them. “They are away.”

“Why does he not want us as escort?” asked Dominic.

“He does. After we pass Tuileries we are to rendezvous.”

Arsène signaled and once again Philipe took the lead.

Along the dark, quiet streets of Paris they moved fast yet making as little noise as possible for any sound traveled a good distance in such stillness. The quarter moon gave off little light by which to see, but that didn’t trouble them as they navigated the pre-determined route.

Reviews/Notices/Awards:

If you like the Three Musketeers, the Scarlet Pimpernell, and Zorro, you will like this story. Adventure, disguises, intrigues, court life, expectations of family, arranged marriage, and elements of romance and temptation all enter into the plot and storyline.

Three young men try to live by their motto, "For Friendship, for Faith, and for Freedom," while aiding the Huguenot Resistance in France. Plenty of swordfighting, pursuits and escapes, and insight into how young people view faith as they mature and make decisions about what they really believe and how it will shape their conduct. ~~ Amazon Review

Why did Shawn write THE HUGUENOT SWORD?

I have loved historical fiction since I was a kid. I couldn't read enough books or watch enough swashbuckling movies. In fact, as a teen, I had a major crush on D'Artagnan. While other girls swooned over Mr. Darcy, I wanted to fight beside D'Artagnan. Hence I took up fencing with the rapier and trained for the 1984 Olympics. I was also considered to be the fencing stunt double for Bo Derek in a pirate that unfortunately got canned.

THE HUGUENOT SWORD started out as homage to all those authors of yesterday, Dumas and Rafael Sabatini. However, as I began researching, I discovered information about Henri, the Duc d Rohan. He was a key leader of the French Huguenots, and actually, very influential with many European princes and powerful lords. He is credited with singlehandedly withstanding Richelieu and keeping the Huguenots alive. For such a man of integrity and stature to be overlooked is surprising. This changed my intent and became a story of faith and courage shown by people under great persecution.

Author Bio:

Shawn Lamb is the author of the YA allegorical fantasy series ALLON and the newly released Christian historical fiction novel THE HUGUENOT SWORD. She began her writing career in television. Shawn wrote for Filmation Studio's series BraveStar. She won several screenwriting awards including a Certificate of Merit for the American Association of Screenwriters. Recently she became a winner in the The Authors Show contest 50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading for 2011.

Purchase Links:

Amazon (including Kindle). http://tinyurl.com/7f9z2gd

Barnes & Noble (including Nook). http://tinyurl.com/7rbexrq

Allon Books. http://www.allonbooks.com/huguenot_sword.html

Primal Thirst by Kent J. Holloway

2011-10-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

Action/Adventure, Suspense, Speculative Fiction

Wisecracking cryptozoologist Dr. Obadiah "Jack" Jackson has hunted plenty of dangerous creatures over the years. But he finds a lot more than he bargained for when he travels to Malaysia to save a beautiful missionary and her village from being ravaged by ghoulish, blood-feeding monsters straight from local legend known as the jenglot.

The jenglot are very dangerous, elusive, and intelligent. But that's the least of Jack's troubles. Others besides the blood-crazed cryptids want Jack dead as well...a local witchdoctor threatened by the missionary's message of hope and a mysterious guerilla leader who seems to have a dark and secret agenda. Jack and his team must keep their wits about them to escape the jenglot and discover the answers to the deep mysteries surrounding their existence.

Excerpt:

We trod another twenty minutes before the tunnel completely leveled off. The tepid heat finally submitted to the cool temperatures of the subterranean depths, bringing great relief to our nearly dehydrated bodies. My eyes strained in the darkness. For an instant, the beam of my flashlight dimmed, before brightening again.

“How far down do you think we’ve gone?” Nikki broke the silence.

“I’m not sure,” I said, slapping the flashlight against the palm of my hand.

Ah, crap. Please God, don’t let the batteries die now. Not now.

The beam grew even brighter with the impact.

A shudder coursed through my limbs at the sudden thought. I’d just prayed for the first time since…well, for a really long time. And what was worse, I’d actually believed He answered.

This girl is definitely messing with my head.

“I’d say we’ve walked a good mile from the stairwell, wouldn’t you?” she asked, ignoring my bout with the flashlight.

“Er, probably more like two,” I said, climbing up on an overturned stone pillar in the middle of the walkway and reaching down to haul her up. “I’d say we’re getting pretty close. I can’t imagine it’d be much further.”

“I kind of hope not. Jack, I’m getting really creeped out.”

“Feel like we’re being watched?”

“Yeah. Kind of. But it’s more than just being watched. It’s like we’re being…”

“Stalked,” I said, helping her down the other side of the pillar and turning to peer into the darkness behind us. “Yeah, I feel it too.”

I hopped down beside her and pushed on.

“At least the shuffling footsteps have stopped,” she said, forcing a grin.

“That, actually, makes me even more nervous,” I said. “Makes it harder to know where they are.”

Her head turned back the way we came, obviously searching for any signs of our pursuers.

“And who do you think ‘they’ are?” she whispered, as if her very words could make our stalkers materialize from the shadows.

“My first guess would be the jenglot. But I’m not sure. Shantili’s lurking around too. But whatever is, it’ll probably just try to eat my face off.”

She stifled a laugh at the joke.

“Somehow, I have a feeling you get that alot,” she said.

“Yeah, Vera says I just have a way with monsters—”

I skidded to a halt, forcing Nikki to stumble against my back.

“What is it? Why’d you stop?” she asked as she peeked around my shoulder and beamed her flashlight forward. “Oh.”

“Yeah. Oh is right.”

We’d come to a dead end. The walls of the tunnel had collapsed ages ago and had erected a stone barrier between us and our supposed destination. I crouched down, grabbed a chunk of stone and tried to lift it from the rubble. It wouldn’t budge.

“What are we going to do?” Nikki’s voice sounded hollow, exhausted.

Ignoring her question, I scanned the walls and the pile of stones blocking our way.

“Look at this,” I said, pointing to a portion of the tunnel wall still standing. Its edges were blackened, charred by intense heat.

“What could have caused that?” she asked.

“Oh, it’s pretty characteristic of black powder burns. These walls were intentionally blown down.”

“With black powder?”

“Yeah. But the scorch marks aren’t that old. Probably no more than fifty years or so ago, I’d say.”

The sound of a pebble skidding across the stone floor jerked our attention away from the debris, spinning us around. Then a barefooted step. No more than a few hundred feet away.

Nikki turned back to the barricade, tucked her flashlight into her pocket, and tested the weight of any stone she could grab hold of.

“That’s not going to work,” I said. “It’s too heavy. Even if you manage to roll of a few rocks away, it’ll just crash down on itself under the stress of its own weight.”

“Well, we’ve got to try. Don’t we?” She sidestepped to the left edge of the debris, pulled down on another stone and brought it crashing to the floor. “Ah ha!”

“That’s only one of them,’ I said, flashing my light back and forth, scanning for any movement behind us. “You’re wasting your time…”

The crash of another rock exploded through the confines of the tunnel.

“Jack!” Nikki shouted. “It’s some kind of a vent!”

A what?

I turned just in time to see the upper portion of Nikki’s body disappear into a tiny opening in the rock barrier. Her feet kicked against the stone floor as she shimmied her way deeper into the crevice.

“What the heck are you doing woman?” I yelled. “Get back here.”

Ignoring my command, she scrambled forward into the unknown. When she had fully disappeared, I crouched down and examined the narrow cleft of rock she’d crawled through.

The crevice was obviously handmade. Whoever had blown the walls apart, had erected a shallow stone tunnel to bridge the gap to the other side. The rocks from the blasted wall had camouflaged the fissure enough so that only someone who knew where to look would have been able to find it. Or someone with some blind stinking luck.

“Are you okay?” I said into the opening, shining the beam of my light through the small cleft.

I can’t believe she’s doing this, I thought, stifling the urge to give her a good verbal lashing for her stupidity. I decided to give it to her later. This girl is nuts and she’s dragging me right along with her.

“Yeah,” she grunted, clambering on her elbows to pull her forward. “It’s a little tight, but I see an opening on the other end. It’s definitely a way through. And it appears pretty sturdy. It’s safe.”

Numerous growls hissed through the chamber behind me as the padded steps of multiple feet echoed through the tunnel.

Great. Here comes the munchkin blood brigade, I thought, climbing to one knee and tentatively poking my head into the tiny opening. My dormant claustrophobia clawed its way up my spine, crushing against my thoughts like a massive, invisible vice.

A howl erupted nearby, followed by the full onslaught of pounding feet against the stones. I cast my light back for one final look and reeled at the sight of three dark shadows charging full speed at me. Flashes of blood-stained fangs reflected in the beam of my light.

Without a second breath, I plunged head first into the stone crevice and clawed my way forward. The sounds of snarling hisses followed me through the shaft and I scurried even faster.

The crevice was tighter than it seemed from the outside. My shoulders barely squeezed through the sides, forcing me to struggle my way through. My stomach and back scraped against the stone floor and ceiling, shredding my shirt and quite a bit of skin in the process.

This must be what it feels like to be in a sardine can, I thought as I scrambled on. Wait a minute. Something’s not right. Nikki!

She was no where to be seen. The heavy breathing and growls of the jenglot tore through the tunnel behind. They’d entered the tight crawl space and were now only yards away.

“Nikki!” I yelled ahead. The beam of my flashlight flickered and dimmed, before brightening again. “Where the blazes are you?”

No response. The sounds of the jenglot were growing louder. They were closing the distance quickly, having much less body mass to contend with in the narrow confines of the tunnel.

“Nikki!”

A taloned claw latched onto my left ankle, pulling me back with more strength than I would have thought possible for the agile little creatures. Instinctively, I tried turning around to get a better look at my attacker, but forgot the height of the ceiling and struck my head against it.

My head throbbing, I kicked furiously at the unseen creature forcing him to release my leg and pulled myself forward.

It was then that the batteries of my flashlight gave up the ghost and went completely black, eliciting howls of glee from my pursuers. I’d forgotten their abhorrence to light and had failed to use it to my advantage. I knew it wouldn’t happen again…one way or another.

“Nikki!” Panic ripped through from my words. At this point, I wasn’t exactly concerned with appearing manly.

Reviews/Notices/Awards:

"An old fashioned jungle romp, liberally spiced with bloodsucking monsters. What's not to love? Primal Thirst will leave you hungry for more." -- Sean Ellis, author of The Shroud of Heaven

"A heart-pumping adventure sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!" -- Nikki Jones, author of The Quest: The Time of Darkness

Why Did Kent Write Primal Thirst?

I’m a huge fan of the SyFy Channel’s Destination Truth. On this reality show, the host and his team travel the world investigating some of the strangest mysteries around…including the hunt for cryptids of all shapes and sizes. One night, while watching the show, I thought to myself how awesome it would be if there was an adventure novel similar to the show. The next day, I went to my local Barnes and Noble and started looking for a great monster hunting book to sink my teeth into, but was horribly disappointed when my search yielded nothing. Sure, there were plenty of adventure novels out there. And yes, a few even had monsters—but none seemed to have the spirit of fun and humor that the show conveys. They were all rather serious books from what I could find and I had really wanted something much more like a popcorn munching Saturday afternoon movie serial. Something a little more pulpy. So, it was at that point that I knew what needed to be done…if I wanted to read this book, I was going to have to write it.

Author Bio:

J. Kent Holloway is an adventure author with a passion for edge-of-your-seat thrillers. He is a graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Masters in Biblical Studies. A real-life paranormal investigator, his work explores the realms of the unknown. When not writing or scouring the southeastern United States for ghosts and cryptids, he works as a forensic death investigator.

You can get to know more about Kent at his website: http://www.kenthollowayonline.com/ or friending him on Facebook here: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1515884903

Purchase Links:

Amazon (including indle).

http://www.amazon.com/Primal-Thirst-J-Kent-Holloway/dp/0982609906/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1318270681&sr=1-1

Barnes & Noble (including Nook).

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Primal-Thirst/J-Kent-Holloway/e/2940000836811

ARROW THAT FLIES, by Sadie & Sophie Cuffe

2011-10-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Romantic Suspense/Suspense

As undercover agent, Jackie Duncan, ferrets out environmental activist, Rand Adams and his turbulent plans for the logging town of Stellar's Ford, she sees double when identical twin, Robbie, assumes Rand's identity. After getting nearly skewered by an arrow at a tree-spiking site, Jackie's list of suspects grows, and her rural childhood haven boils over with protests and arson. At every turn, Rand Adams (or is it Robbie?) is a step ahead of her.

When her investigative work won't turn the tables, Jackie stubbornly befriends this would-be enemy and discovers though they share the same face, Robbie is not his volatile brother. But who is he? And will their fragile love and common faith be enough to weather the arrival of brother, Rand, and his claims of being a kidnapped pawn in a cat-and-mouse game that's about to turn deadly for all of them?

Excerpt:

Jackie's brain scrambled, wondering how to begin. With Robbie, she needed a logical and ordered approach, mostly a foreign concept to her random brain. She'd do her best to meet him on his perfectly-manicured and weed-free mental turf. "First of all, you can't love me. You don't trust me and, although you might disagree, I believe you have to have trust before you can truly love a person.

"Second...or is it secondly? Anyway," she continued on an indrawn breath. "I have no feelings for Rand Adams whatsoever. I only met him for the first time tonight, even though certain parties -- that would be you and Amanda and even Bill, and I don't know about Brad -- let me believe you were Rand when we first met."

"Brad can't tell the difference."

"Well, it's a relief to know I'm not the only clueless one around," Jackie said. "But that's beside the point. Thirdly, you don't even know me."

"I know enough."

"You don't," she argued. "I came here, not only as a state forester, but as an undercover environmental task force officer. I was...I am supposed to keep track of your brother to make sure he, or anyone else, for that matter, doesn't cross the line and do anything violent. We got a tip he was coming here to stop the land management exchange process no matter the cost.

"We're short staffed so we asked for help from the FBI, because they've been keeping tabs on Rand for awhile now, but they're convinced there's nothing here that would further their investigation of your brother. They're not interested in the life and death of a few people in a small town, so the commissioner decided to send me."

"Bill's 'secret weapon,'" Robbie stated. "So far you're not telling me anything I haven't already suspected."

"This is just what I was saying. You suspect me -- you don't trust me."

"I meant deduced. We're talking semantics here," he argued, but his gentle voice caressed her frayed nerves. "It has nothing to do with trust.

"It has everything to do with trust. Even if you did love me, and I'm not saying you do--"

"I'm saying I do."

"I'm saying it wouldn't work. I can't go for you now -- it'd be a flagrant conflict of interest because I'm investigating your brother. It would put you in the middle of an emotional tug-of-war, and that's not fair."

"I'm a big boy, I can handle it."

"Oh, sure, Mr. Cool now, is it? The list-making king is suddenly going to wing it? What happens when Rand asks you to back him up and you know I'm going to be out there on the opposite side?"

"We're on the same side," he persisted like old Sparky with a bone.

"And you think I'm stubborn? Just last night I said that same thing to you, and you came back with the famous Robbie Adams' 'We'll see,' ambiguity," Jackie replied.

Why Did Sadie and Sofie Write Arrow That Flies?
We've always lived in rural areas in a blue collar world, and our writing reflects this background. Some of our manuscripts have been rejected by editors for being non-authentic in terms of small town culture and happenings. Our inspiration came from wanting to portray rural people as the smart, funny, hard working, strong individualists, and believers, they are -- true to themselves, regardless of the current fashions and fads of NYC or Paris. We also wanted to create a heroine who could be both feminine and rural-woods-smart. That inspiration came from generations of rural women across the country. We write what comes from our hearts. The story behind this book is the story of rural folk everywhere, living off the land, protecting their families, and dealing with the challenge of new ideas and change.

The story evolved very slowly. We knew what would happen in the plot, but at the first writing, we have to be honest, we hated the hero and heroine. Innumerable rewrites later, we feel it's evolved into something readers will enjoy.

Strangers often ask us if we're twins. We're not, but we've always thought it would be fun to have an identical twin. The premise of having someone who looks exactly like you isn't new, but we like to think we put a different spin on it by having one twin impersonate his abducted brother while searching for the kidnapper.

Author Bio:
The Cuffe sisters grew up in the 60s along side two brothers with perfect snowball aim (okay, so we were good targets!), neighborhood pick-up games, a small church in the pines with a scary outhouse, and a school by the lake where you jumped into first grade because there was no kindergarten.
As a team, we bring the strength of sisterhood to our writing, as well as the spice of differing perspectives on everything from Sophie’s Type-A need to EXACTLY follow the recipe (she soooo identifies with Robbie!), to Sadie’s backing up using mirrors (Jackie's got nothing on her!). SCARY.
In addition to freelance writing we run a small farm in Maine’s Unorganized Territory. We bring Jane-of-All-Trades life experience to our work, and believe God has given us this background to write squarely to the heart of real women who don’t always wear a size 2 and prefer boots to high heels. If you want to ‘talk shop’ about rural life, livestock, music, God, house construction, or girl stuff, we’re ready. We believe with God anything is possible and that some of the best stories aren’t hatched in creative writing classes, they’re composed on the seat of a tractor.
We're pleased to have our novel published with Desert Breeze Publishing and look forward to the April 2012 release of the second book in the series, entitled WARRIOR'S JOURNEY.
We'd also like you to know our historical inspirational fiction, FAITH IN THE SHADOWS will be out in November 2011.

Purchase Links:

Amazon (including Kindle). http://tinyurl.com/3nvfvt3

Barnes and Noble (including Nook). http://tinyurl.com/3tyb8jx

Desert Breeze Publishing. http://tinyurl.com/3evqplf

The Green Veil (Empire in Pine series) by Naomi Musch

2011-09-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

Historical Inspirational Romance:

Colette Palmer is a young girl in 1841 when her father follows land speculator Harris Eastman from Michigan to Wisconsin Territory where lumber barons are taking land and timber by right, by force, and by theft. Separated from her childhood love by miles and years, she tries to forget her childish longings for Manason Kade until the day compassion and circumstances compel her to marry another.

But Manason does come and plants his own stake in the Wisconsin lumbering trade. It isn't long before he uncovers illegal practices in the industry and by one company in particular. Now Colette's husband will stop at nothing to crush him.

Then one unsuspecting night, Manason and Colette meet again. As memories revive, and truth is set free, Colette is forced to choose between her first love and her commitment to her marriage vows. But how can she, with her faith and an empire in pine hanging in the balance?

Excerpt:

"Nase is a friend!"

His hand moved so quickly that she didn't see it coming. He struck her across the face with such force that she fell across the bed. Then, bending over her, he grabbed her jaw and thrust her head to the side in a second half-slap before standing up.

"Don't you think I know who he is to you?"

Colette hardly heard him. Stunned by the ferocity of his assault, tears came instantly. Some muscle was pulled in her neck, and even her shoulders ached from the jolt of his blow.

"Why did you want his picture so badly, Lettie? Did you hope he would come to you someday?"

"I didn't want it," she cried softly.

"You did. I know you did. You have it now, somewhere, don't you?"

She buried her face into her pillow.

"Don't think you can lie to me, Lettie. Don't think you can turn my mind with your tears. I've seen enough tears to last me a lifetime."

Helen's tears? She tried to stop, but only succeeded in coughing.

She heard him hurl something across the room. She heard glass breaking in the fireplace.

"What does it matter?" The words moaned out of her.

"What? What's that you said?" He came over and dropped heavily onto the bed.

"I'll never even see him again."

He grabbed her by the shoulders, picking her up and clutching her. The smell of liquor was heavy on his breath and his eyes were wild. "You think so? Well, that's where you're wrong, my dear," he hissed. Then, leaving the white imprints of his hands on her shoulders, he rose and stormed out of the room, slamming the door as fresh sobs tore out of her.

Reviews/Notices/Awards:

"The Green Veil is one of those books where you have absolutely no idea how the book is going to end, but you MUST know." - April Gardner, author of Wounded Spirits

"Her characters were so captivating right from the opening scene, which is a preview from the middle of the story, that I couldn't stop reading." - Lisa J. Lickel, co-author of A Summer in Oakville

"Empire in Pine Book One: The Green Veil by Naomi Musch is forty chapters of a layered Christian Fiction novel published January 1, 2011, by Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. and all I can say to begin with is--what a book! I absolutely loved it."- Barbara Robinson, author¸ author of Last Resort

Awarded COTT Champion for Best Hook and current contender in the COTT Tournament of Champions.

Why Did Naomi Write The Green Veil?

The lore of the Great Lakes early logging era combined in my imagination with the story of a young girl who might come to the wilderness, leaving behind life-long friends and an unrequited love. What would happen to her, so many miles from all she'd once known and dreamed of?

I was also thinking heavily about the idea of following one's heart. Scripture tells us that "the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. Who can know it?" The reality is that we do often become deceived by our hearts' wishes. We're gullible. It might not always be best to follow our hearts. Thus, a theme was born.

Finally, not since the early 1990s have I seen any inspirational fiction set in the historical framework of the Great Lakes early logging days. It spurred in me a desire to explore the history of my own home town in central Wisconsin where the story is set.

Purchase Links:

Amazon (including Kindle). http://tinyurl.com/3c6cv67

Barnes & Noble (including Nook). http://tinyurl.com/3s46xe4

Desert Breeze Publishing. http://tinyurl.com/3ktb54j

Author Bio:

Naomi loves stories rich in American history, but writes in several other genres as well. Naomi's aim is to surprise and entertain readers while telling stories about imperfect people who are finding hope and faith to overcome their struggles, whether the setting is past, contemporary, or even fantastic.

She and husband Jeff enjoy epic adventures around their home in the Wisconsin north woods with their five young adults. She invites readers to say hello and find out more about her stories, passions, and other writing venues at http://www.naomimusch.com or look her up on Facebook: Naomi Musch - Author, and Twitter: NMusch

Naomi would like to let everyone know The Red Fury, Empire in Pine series Book 2 will be released on October 15, 2011 from Desert Breeze Publishing.

Taming The Wild Wind by Donita K. Paul

2011-09-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

Historical Romance/Prairie Romance:

Ida has always gone her own way like a gentle breeze, drifting through social barriers as if they weren't even there. Like the breeze, her comings and goings are hard to keep track of, and her family assumes Ida's activities are the same as the other society debutantes of Pittsburgh. When she responds to the wilder wind of the Oklahoma prairie, she recognizes the untamed quality in her personality. She also comes to realize that even the wild wind has a Master. She submits to the hand of her Creator, her loving Heavenly Father, and allows Him to tame her willful nature.

Excerpt:

“That house is haunted.”

Ida Meade nodded wearily at the pronouncement. She’d heard it a dozen times since checking into the hotel a week before. Her response remained the same, “I don’t believe in ghosts.”

“Haunted,” the brawny man grunted as he hoisted a burlap bag of rice to his shoulder. “That’s what I said.” He carried his load to the waiting buggy.

Watching Lucas plod back and forth from the storeroom door to the surrey, Ida recalled some of the others in town who’d nervously couched their warnings with snickers.

“I don’t believe it myself,” the clerk at the front desk of the Granger Hotel had said. He tapped a stubby pencil on the polished check-in desk. He looked cautiously around the lobby before leaning closer to whisper, “But there’s been people seen things. Things that aren’t natural.”

A day later, Ida interviewed a woman for the housekeeper position at the mission. Her lone applicant was more interested in talking about the haunted house than the job offered. After repeating a fresh bit of ghost gossip, the job applicant quickly assured Ida she didn’t believe half of the rumors.

“Especially don’t put no faith in O’Reilly’s story,” she confided. “He claimed he nearly galloped right o’er a ghost on the Burnside road.”

The woman made a noise of disgust. Ida thought for a minute she was going to expectorate in the hotel lobby spittoon, and breathed a sigh of relief when the woman didn’t spit out anything but words.

“It were night,” continued the woman, “and he mostly drunk, I think. As for me, don’t mind a-going there come the day, but you ain’t gonna get me to sleep there a-coming no night.”

And then, there had been the livery owner who hitched the buggy for Ida. “I figger I can handle a rattler, a bear, or coyotes," he claimed. "But little girl ghosts, . . .” The man shuddered dramatically and left Ida standing beside the bedraggled surrey. He’d walked off muttering, spit a stream of tobacco at a can by the large wooden door, and shook his head. Ida thought she heard him say, “Fool woman.”

Is he referring to me? Ida clutched her reticule and scowled at the man’s back. Well, he doesn’t know me. I’m anything but a fool. She let out a sigh. At least, I didn’t think I was a fool until I ended up here.

Every person Ida encountered had an opinion, a bit of wisdom or nonsense, to impart. She listened attentively and sifted the chaff from the grains of common sense. Having lived all her nineteen years in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she wasn’t prepared for prairie life. She knew it and consciously beat down her pride to take instruction. Nothing would deter her from the Lord’s purpose. He had opened doors, prepared the way, circumvented all obstacles. She would establish the Indian school. She would teach the littler ones in that ramshackle farmhouse. The younger children would get their education without being shipped off to boarding schools.

Ida Meade refused to let the various horrifying ghost stories be the straw that broke her camel’s back. These references to haunting were merely more inconveniences in a long list of inconveniences that began long before she left her parents’ home in Pittsburgh. That list had seemed to multiply since her arrival by train to Elder Creek, a small town in the Northeast Indian Territory.

Why Donita Wrote Taming The Wild Wind:

I wrote Taming the Wild Wind because at the time I was writing romance. My mother played on the banks of the Wabash River as a little girl pretending she was an Indian princess. When she grew up she learned that her grandfather was part Native American.

Purchase Links:

Amazon (including Kindle). http://www.amazon.com/Taming-the-Wild-Wind-ebook/dp/B005IIRB1K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1315851673&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble (including Nook).

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/taming-the-wild-wind-donita-kathleen-paul/1105099654?ean=2940013046665&itm=1&usri=taming%2bthe%2bwild%2bwind

Smashwords. http://www.smashwords.com/books/search?query=taming+the+wild+wind

Lulu. http://www.lulu.com/product/paperback/taming-the-wild-wind/16948433?productTrackingContext=search_results/search_shelf/center/1

Author Bio:

Donita K. Paul retired early from teaching school, but soon got bored! The result: a determination to start a new career. Now she is an award-winning novelist writing Christian Romance and Fantasy. Her books include The DragonKeeper Chronicles, The Chronicles of Chiril and Two Tickets to a Christmas Ball. She says, “I feel blessed to be doing what I like best.” Her two grown children make her proud, and her two grandsons make her laugh.

Wounded Spirits by April Gardner

2011-09-01T12:47:00.000-07:00

Historical Romance/Epic Fiction/Action-Adventure

When a distant war among the Natives spills over into a nearby skirmish, Adela's frontier life takes a perilous turn. Deep in enemy territory she must choose between the man she loves and a baby that has yet to be born; will she be strong enough to wait on God's provision?

A peace-loving yet loyal Creek warrior, Totka is forced to align with the extremist Red Stick faction whose purpose is to eradicate the Whites from Creek soil. In the midst of battle, Totka is assigned to protect those he is expected to hate--and kill. Life was simpler before his enemy became a beautiful face with a quiet strength and dignity he cannot resist.

Having lived a life plagued with death and loss, Zachariah McGirth is a man on a mission - he'll have his revenge or die trying. Blinded by grief, he can't see his way clear of yet another tragedy. Why has God taken everything from him...or has He?

Their lives molded by the course of history, can these Wounded Spirits learn to rely on God's grace during one of the bloodiest conflicts in the South?

Excerpt:

      Across the garden, the door to the house opened and closed. Only one person would search for him.

      Totka growled in frustration and willed Adela back inside.

      As her footfall neared, he refused to look at her. He couldn’t. It would do him in.

      “It is late. Go to bed.” Do not leave me.

      Her sleeve brushed against his. “You will wear a hole in the earth if you continue this way.”

      Did she know what a balm her voice was to his tortured mind? He closed his eyes and let it flow over him like a soothing breeze.

Reviews/Notices/Awards:

Winner of the 2010 Grace Awards, Action Adventure/Western/Historic Epic Fiction ~ "Ms. Gardner doesn’t write like a debut author! She kept my attention right from the beginning of this story. I feel that the overall writing of this story, that it was very well-researched and that the character development was so exceptionally well-done merit extra consideration. The pacing of the story was excellent and the setting was well established. The character development and conflict were exceptionally well-done on all points. The writing was very fresh and unique. Great use was made of the vocabulary: The excellent usage of dialect and the utilization of Spanish. The background study pertaining to Zachariah McGirth, Red Eagle, etc… All of these aspects made for a compelling story." ~ Grace Awards Judge

"This historic romance and adventure novel brings a spirit of kindness, and a belief not only in God but in the good, and simple goodness, that is sweet and charming, and so much more. You don't need to be a fan of the inspirational to be left feeling a fuzzy glow from this on - do read." ~ Long and Short of it Reviews

Why April Wrote Wounded Spirits:

Wounded Spirits is the story of my heart. I wrote it as a challenge to myself, but now it's my constant visual of God's loving hand in my life.

Purchase Links:

Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Spirits-April-W-Gardner/dp/0981989616/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Barnes & Noble. http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/wounded-spirits-april-gardner/1028027465

April's website. www.aprilgardner.com

Author Bio:

April W. Gardner currently resides in Georgia with her two sweet kiddos and a USAF husband. She is an author and the senior editor fo the literary site, Clash of Titles (www.clashofthetitles.com).

Last Resort by BJ Robinson

2011-08-05T13:49:00.000-07:00

Romantic Suspense/Suspense

Two desperate people--one last resort, Faith Grace Roussell is stalked by her ex-fiance and forced to search her conflicted heart. In a battle of love, loss, and raging jealousy, she strives to build a new life with peace and contentment, but Matt Allen has eyes like magnets she could get as lost in as unknown woods. Will he prove to be a helpmate or just another strawberry cull? Will she be forced to use The Pink Lady?

Excerpt:

Faith tore out of the jail's parking lot and prayed she wouldn't get a ticket. She turned Old Blue into the flowing traffic. Her heart pumped faster than a race car engine. Dear God, please don't let me be too late. She reached down and punched Matt's number again. Come on, Matt, where are you? Pick up. Still no answer. She snapped the phone shut and focused on the road ahead. Who could possibly have it in for him? He was such a great guy. She gassed the truck as she passed the city limits and left the jail behind. Why wasn't he answering? She'd never had a problem before. This wasn't like him.

Faith whipped into the drive. She jumped from her pickup, strode to the side door, and knocked. No answer. She pulled out her cell and tried again. It rang and rang, then went straight to the voicemail. This time, she hung up without leaving a message.

She yanked the screen door, and it flew open, unlatched. The door knob turned, and she shoved the door open and yelled, "Matt, are you there?"

No response. She briskly marched through the house and called his name. She checked each room. In Matt's office, the swivel chair faced the door. Blood spotted it. Faith's heart lurched. Oh, God, please don't let me be too late. She spotted blood droplets on the carpet and followed them back through the kitchen and to the garage. Matt's truck ran. Dear God, what will I find when I open this door? Please let me be in time. Why didn't Matt use his pistol?

Faith jerked the garage door, but it wouldn't budge. She ran to the kitchen and hit the automatic door opener. The door slowly opened. She raced inside the garage, and the gas fumes nearly knocked her out. She coughed and held her nose with one hand. Her eyes burned, but she yanked open the driver's truck door. Matt tumbled out.

She let go of her nose and turned off the truck. Faith slid her arms under Matt's and locked her hands in front of his chest. She hefted. He didn't budge. She had to get him out of there. Now. No time to waste. She hauled in a breath, grunted, and heaved. He lifted, and she pulled him toward the door. One foot. Two feet. Three more.

"Matt, we're out of the garage." Please, Lord, help me. She couldn't drop him now. The outside air hit her face and tears of relief filled her eyes. She tenderly laid him on the grass by the side of the cement drive and yanked her cell from its holster. She dialed 911.

Assured the ambulance was on its way, Faith closed her phone and felt for his heartbeat. She rubbed her knuckles against his breast bone and stroked his face. So still. She touched his neck and held her breath. No response. She tilted his head and lifted his chin, then put her ear to his mouth and listened. Nothing. She looked for chest movement. Nothing. She listened for air blowing through his mouth or nose, or on her cheek. Nothing. He wasn't going to die if she had anything to do with it.

She ran her tongue over her lip and tasted perspiration. Why did sweat always taste salty, and why would she even think to question that at a time like this? She took a quick, shallow breath and whispered, "Come on, Matt. Breathe! BREATHE!"

It'd been a long time since she'd trained for CPR. Would she remember what to do? A bluish pallor stole over Matt's complexion, and his body became a dead weight. She had no time to lose.

Faith pinched his nose and made a seal over his mouth with her own. She breathed big enough to make his chest rise, let his chest fall, and repeated the rescue breath again. She listened for an intake of breath, an exhale, but the only sound was the pounding of her own heart in her ears.

Reviews/Notices:

B. J. Robinson has numerous poems, articles, short stories, essays, and devotionals published. Her article "Honoring God's Calling" was published in the Fall 2010 edition of Together. Published devotionals include two with MustardSeed Ministries, seven with Standard Publishing in the Spring of 2010, and one in Words to Write By: Author Devotionals compiled by Robin Bayne. "Flat Tires" was recently published in 2011 in Hurray God! Hope, Pray, Believe. In college, her short story won first prize and was published in the university's literary magazine, Gambit. Her first college essay was published. In the third grade, her pet dog story was published in a local newspaper. "Mother's Glimpse of Heaven" was published in FATE Magazine in 2002. "POD Publishing: What's to Gain?" was published in Christian Fiction Online Magazine in March 2009. A short story was published in Pebble Lake Review in the Summer of 2004 and was also published in St. Cloud in the News.

"B. J. Robinson's Last Resort is an inspirational romantic suspense story that keeps you hanging on the edge of your seat -- both to see if the villain is overcome and to see if Matt and Faith end up together. You don't want to miss this one with its twists; it's a great read!" ~ Deb Haggerty, Author and Speaker

"The warm, sweet romance, yet insightful story, will touch your heart with its simplicity and charm."
~ Janet Perez Eckles, Author and Speaker

Why BJ wrote Last Resort:

I wrote Last Resort to inspire others to put their hope and trust in Jesus, since He can be their best friend. After losing my mother to cancer and my youngest sister to an eating disorder six years apart, I wanted to illustrate that even in death, there's still hope, and we're never alone. I placed a number of red herrings throughout my novel for an enjoyable read that will keep readers guessing, and the novel weaves a story with twists and turns, but the faith element is important. . Romance, suspense, arson, attempted murder, murder, shattered dreams, fear, hope, faith, prayer, and love are woven together to create a story I hope and pray will touch readers' hearts. I hope my readers realize how short time really is and how a choice made in a few minutes can alter a life forever. And, being a pet lover, I hope readers glean an understanding of how they enrich our lives with unconditional love.

Purchase Links:

Desert Breeze Publishing Storefront. http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/StoreFront.bok

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-184/B-J-Robinson-Last/Detail.bok Read a free excerpt here.

Barnes & Noble. http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/last-resort-b-j-robinson/1030124288?ean=2940012838063&itm=1&usri=last%2Bresort%2Bb%2Bj%2Brobinson

Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Last-Resort-ebook/dp/B005CQ7JQK/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1310918473&sr=1- Barnes & Noble

Author Bio:

"I've never seen anyone so passionate about writing. I know your writing will help others. In fact, you've helped others--for many years." That's how a friend and colleague describes me. I'm a Christian writer who shares my heart and soul through my writing, as well as my passion and love for Jesus. A former newspaper columnist for my hometown newspaper, I'm an award-winning author. My Christian Romantic Suspense novel LAST RESORT will be released July 15, 2011, by Desert Breeze. My article "Honoring God's Calling," was published in the Fall 2010 issue of Together. Two devotionals were published with MustardSeed Ministries and seven were accepted for Devotions with Standard Publishing in Spring 2010. Another has been published in Words to Write By: Author Devotionals Compiled by Robin Bayne, for a total of ten published devotionals. I spend most of my free time writing.If I'm not writing, I'm reading and completing book reviews on my blog. I've been blessed with beautiful sons and daughters and grandchildren, and a fur baby girl, a golden cocker spaniel named Sunflower. Dakota is our German Shepherd, and Frankie is our adopted shelter cat.

Burning Hearts, Nike Chillemi

2011-05-30T08:44:00.000-07:00

Suspense/Historical Suspense/Romantic Suspense Series

Can a sheltered young seamstress, disillusioned by the horrors of WWII, escape an arsonist/murderer who has killed her employer and mentor, while trying to decide if she can trust the dashing war hero who’s ridden into town on his Harley—who some say is the murderer?

Erica Brogna’s parents doted on her and taught her to think for herself. Many boys she grew up with have fallen in the war, shaking her childhood faith. In rides a handsome stranger, at the hour of her most desperate need. A woman who is her best friend and mentor is trapped in a burning house. After making an unsuccessful rescue attempt, Erica stands by as this man rushes into the inferno and carries her friend’s lifeless body out.

Lorne Kincade can’t out run his past on his Harley Davidson WLA, the civilian model of the motorcycle he rode in the war. He’s tried. He’s been a vagabond biker in the year since the war ended. His Uncle Ivar bequeathed him a ramshackle cottage in Sanctuary Point, on the Great South Bay of Long Island, NY and now he’d like to hope for a future again, repair the miniscule place, and settle down. The only problem is, a young woman with hair the color of mink is starting to get under his skin and that’s the last thing he needs.

Excerpt:

Chapter One

Long Island, New York

September 1946

Erica Brogna hurried down Hill Street, eager to sketch her new design, a forest green taffeta dress with a swirling skirt for a twenty-fifth wedding anniversary -- her first significant assignment. She paused to inhale the salt scent on the ocean breeze, and her gaze lingered on a copse of red, rust, and gold maples near Ada's house and dress shop.

She smiled, pulling her cardigan tight around her, and dropped the newspaper Poppa asked her to bring to her mentor and employer. She retrieved the paper and saw Bess Truman smiling as she entered Walter Reed Army Hospital. With the war over, the First Lady visited broken soldiers in long-term care. Erica slapped the paper closed before rage and depression overtook her. So many boys had not come home.

Chin jutted out, she smoothed the pleats of her skirt and marched toward Ada's house. She'd think on pleasant things and hand the paper over without a fuss as she did every morning. Nothing would ruin this day.

She climbed Ada's wooden front steps and opened the door.

Smoke filled the living room Ada had turned into a fabric shop. Erica waved a hand in front of tearing eyes. Gray vapors, like swirling fog, partially obscured bolts of fabric stacked against the opposite wall.

"Ada! Ada, answer me please." Dropping the newspaper, Erica rushed toward the stairs, trampling Bess Truman's image. "Ada can you hear me?"

Coughing, she grabbed on to the cutting table in the middle of the room, steadied herself, and reached for the phone -- no dial tone. Perhaps the fire melted the line.

She yanked the collar of her blouse over her nose and mouth against the smoke. The stairs loomed before her, seeming as impossible to scale as Mount Everest. She lunged forward, gripping the baluster, and thrust herself up two steps. Since Ada wasn't outside, she had to be upstairs.

As Erica climbed, the smoke thickened and swirled around her. It was darker with each step.

One hand clasped the rail and pulled, and she advanced a few more steps. Heat blasted against her skin from above, and soft crackling sounds drew her gaze to the upstairs landing. Squinting into the smoke, she lost her grip on the banister, missed the next step, and fell backward tumbling to the bottom.

The back of her head smacked against the baluster, and wooziness followed sharp pain. She tried to stand but couldn't get her bearings.

Will triumphed over ability. She hoisted herself, ignoring the dull throb at the back of her skull. Her palms stung, the skin scraped off during her fall. She took a deep breath, and a coughing fit seized her. Shallow breaths were the better alternative.

Planting her penny loafer on the bottom step, Erica began her climb again, shaken but with new resolve. If she could reach the top of the stairs, she could also make it to Ada's bedroom.

Halfway up, the scratches on her palms pulsated as the temperature rose. So did her knees -- must've scraped those, too. The pungent smoke shrouding her darkened, and grit clung to her skin. She couldn't see the banister or the top of the stairs and each breath took effort.

Poppa's lectures on fire drills flashed into mind -- stay low in a fire to get fresh air. She dropped to her knees and crawled, ignoring her pain. A sickening smell made her stomach lurch.

Inch by inch she crept, now three quarters of the way up. Hot, putrid air assaulted her windpipe, and she doubled over, her insides trembling.

Heaving herself forward, she maneuvered up one more step, but the smoke pushed back, choking her. She sobbed, knowing she couldn't make it to Ada, and scrambled down, hoping she could find help.

Reviews/Notices:

"Right from the start, BURNING HEARTS captured my imagination and tweaked my
curiosity. Nike Chillemi certainly knows how to set a scene and ignite
excitement." ~ Athol Dickson, three time Christy Award winning author of LOST
MISSION and THE OPPOSITE OF ART.

Why Nike Wrote BURNING HEARTS:

The 1940s era has always captured my imaginatin. It's a time in American history when ordinary citizens had a great deal of dignity and class. It was a time of "can doism" in America when most people believed if they simply applied themselves they could use their natural talents and abilities to achieve something in their lives. I wanted to portray that noble American spirit. I wanted to show that the guy and gal next door could accomplish a great deal, could face evil and triumph. I wanted to portray in novel form the concept that evil cannot defeat love...love in all it's forms.

Purchase Links:

Desert Breeze Publishing. http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-167/Nike-Chillemi-Sanctuary-Point/Detail.bok

Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Sanctuary-Point-Book-One-ebook/dp/B0050PJSTY/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_1

Barnes & Nobel. http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Sanctuary-Point-Book-One/Nike-Chillemi/e/2940012411747/?itm=1&USRI=nike+chillemi

Author Bio:

Nike Chillemi has been called a crime fictionista due to her passion for crime fiction. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and the Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers (Ning). She was an Inspy Awards 2010 judge in the Suspense/Thriller/Mystery category and a judge in the 2011 Carol Awards in the suspense, mystery, and romantic suspense categories. She is the founding board member of the Grace Awards, a reader's choice awards for excellence in Christian fiction. She writes monthly book reviews for The Christian Pulse online magazine. BURNING HEARTS is the first book in the crime wave that is sweeping the south shore of Long Island in The Sanctuary Point series, published by Desert Breeze.

The Clouds Roll Away, Sibella Giorello

2011-03-28T07:11:00.000-07:00

Suspense/Detective Series/Romantic Suspense

FBI agent and forensic geologist Raleigh Harmon returns to her hometown of Richmond, Virginia in time for Christmas. But instead of goodness and light, the season takes a sudden dark turn. Somebody burns a cross on the lawn of a high-profile celebrity. When Raleigh starts hunting down the perpetrators, the case only grows murkier. And there's no peace at home, either. Her mother's fragile sanity is cracking and her old boyfriend DeMott wants to re-ignite their flame. As the threads of the case begin crossing and double-crossing, Raleigh is forced to rely on her forensic skills, her faith, and the fervent hope that the singular moment will come -- the tiny sliver of time when everything suddenly makes sense, and the clouds roll away.

Excerpt:

Winter rode into Richmond on the chattering breath of the Atlantic. Each year the season blew itself into existence. The ancient elms crystallized and frost crocheted the birches into lace doilies. On this particular December morning, with a bright sun overhead, I drove out New Market Road past fields that glistened like crushed diamonds. For this moment, my hometown looked cryogenically frozen, preserved for future generations to discover Richmond's wide river, verdant soils, and the plantation lifestyle forged through generations -- gone tragically, humanly awry.

Reviews:

Beautifully written with exquisite descriptions, Giorello's mystery also features well-developed characters, such as a rapper who plays classical music on a cello to relax. The themes of redemption and faith rediscovered are subtly integrated into the story. This is the third title in journalist Giorello's excellent Raleigh Harmon series, following The Stones Cry Out (2007) and The Rivers Run Dry(2009). Libraries will want all three.
—Booklist, Starred Review

The clever plot twists will have readers riveted from the start. Tough, edgy Raleigh Harmon and the city of Richmond are beauties with endearing qualities that are hard to resist. Fans of Sue Grafton and Tim Downs should add Giorello to their favorites list.
—Romantic Times, 4.5 stars

Why Sibella Wrote The Clouds Roll Away:

There are many indelible impressions of Richmond in my mind, planted there during my fourteen years working as a reporter. Some of those images are beautiful -- the landscape, the storied colonial history, the graciousness of the South. But others parts are unsettling -- the repercussions of the only war fought on American soil, the continuing strife between races. The Clouds Roll Away was written as my Valentine to the wonderful city that opened its arms to me, revealing its glory and challenge and wonder.

Purchase Links:

http://sibellagiorello.com/clouds-roll-away.php

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Clouds-Roll-Away-Raleigh-Harmon/dp/B004J8I01K/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1301321277&sr=1-1

Author Bio:

Sibella Giorello grew up in Alaska and majored in geology at Mount Holyoke College. After riding a motorcycle across the country, she worked as a features writer for the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Her stories have won state and national awards, including two nominations for the Pulitzer Prize. She now lives in Washington state with her husband and sons, and writes the Christy-award winning series about FBI agent Raleigh Harmon. For more information, go to http://www.sibellagiorello.com

Orphaned Hearts, Shawna K. Williams

2010-12-07T19:50:00.000-08:00

Historical/Romance/ Christmas
Pastor David Langley understands six-year old Caleb Holsheyer -- what it feels like to be damaged and alone. His family killed in a fire, and his body severely burned, David grew up in an orphanage, ridiculed and shunned. He couldn’t let that be Caleb’s fate.

When adoption plans fall through, David is desperate to find Caleb a new home. But in the midst of the Great Depression, most families are barely getting by. No one seems willing to take on the responsibility of an extra mouth, especially one belonging to a crippled child.

Except for Sadie Miller, the town spinster. In Sadie, David sees the answer to Caleb's needs. But Child Welfare doesn't agree, and demands other arrangements be found, or the boy be returned to the orphanage.

David and Sadie team up, determined to find a home for an orphaned child, but while searching, might they find a family instead.

Excerpt:
"How could they think Caleb's not normal? He's as normal as any other child." Sadie folded her arms in front of her. "Goodness gracious! You're telling me he can be adopted – just not by me -- but he can't be placed-out to anyone?"

"I'm afraid so."

"I've never heard anything more preposterous. I don't even know where to begin."

"I know, Sadie." David gently placed his hand on her arm. "It makes no sense to me either."

Sadie huffed and then looked down at his hand. Strong, warm... ringless. Caleb could be adopted, but only by a family with a mother and a father. A married couple.
She envisioned how a gold band would look circling the base of his finger and suddenly realized she'd unknowingly extended her own hand and was holding it outward, like she showcased her own imaginary matching ring.

Good heavens! Sadie curled her fingers into a fist and then extended them again, curled and extended. "Guess I spent too much time kneading dough today." She giggled like a silly girl and glanced at David to see if he believed the excuse.
His brow creased with a look of concern. "Does it hurt?" He took her hand and cradled it like a wounded puppy. His tenderness melted her to her core. Why couldn't she be young and beautiful, someone he'd want? How she'd love to share her home with him... her bed... her life. If he married her, they could be Caleb's parents. They could have more children. If she was able. If she wasn't too old.

Sadie watched his beautiful face as he tended to her hand, gently massaging her palm. He might marry her, for Cale--

What was she thinking!

"It's fine," Sadie said, pulling her hand from his. It was a farce. She wasn't hurt; she was just taking advantage of his kindness. Just like she'd be doing if she suggested he marry her for Caleb's sake. He might very well do it. It would be for Caleb's well-being, but her own selfish motivation would be hidden in there as well. David didn't feel that way about her, and she wouldn't use Caleb's misfortune to trap him. What sort of person would that make her?

She side-glanced to find that he stared at her, with something strange dancing in his eyes.

"Sadie, did you know that you're lovely?"

She had to bite her lip to keep from laughing. "You spend too much time in your office."

"But I haven't. I've been spending it with you."

She knit her brow, her heart pounding like thunder. What on earth was he saying?

"There is no one like you, Sadie Miller," he said. The depth in his hazel eyes held an unspoken draw, beckoning her to him. She felt herself leaning, and she tried to resist, but some invisible force seemed to be pulling her closer... and closer... Her eyes started to close.

"You'll make some man very happy someday," David blurted, averting his gaze as he stood. "I should go. I have to be on the road early." He tightened his necktie and straightened his collar, then nodded courteously without looking directly at her. "We will find Caleb a home."

Before she could respond he'd trotted down the steps of her front porch and off into the dark without even saying goodbye.

Sadie sat alone on the swing, heat radiating within her. Her hand went to her mouth. Had she almost kissed him?

Have Mercy! No wonder he'd suddenly run off. How would she face him tomorrow? She looked into the blackness where David had disappeared, the humiliating moment replaying in her mind.

Wait a minute. He was leaning too. Had he -- had he almost kissed her back?

Reviews:
5 stars
It is the season of giving. I received a most delightful gift in reading "Orphaned Hearts" by Shawna Williams.
This novella, only eighty-seven pages long, is full of gifts. There is the gift of the setting: the holiday season of the early 1930's, in the small town of Brady Hill.

The main characters, David and Sadie, are gifts as they show us the things that matter: love, faith, compassion and kindness. They will rise above their own issues to help others, especially the children of the orphanage in nearby Fort Smith.

There is the gift of Caleb, the orphan who will steal your heart the moment you meet him. Only six, he has experienced more tragedy than any child ever should. But the little boy, who loves to run and climb trees and play ball, is still inside and with the love of David, Sadie and the entire town of Brady Hill, Caleb becomes the six year old child he was meant to be.

Lessons learned or those we are reminded of is another gift of "Orphaned Hearts." This book shows us that no matter the issue, no matter the "damage," physical or emotional, all people are created equal and should be treated as such. It shows us that we need to reach out to others who need our help - we cannot ignore those who are in need. And it shows us that faith in God and obedience to Him will bring us through everything we face.

On a scale of one to ten, with ten being the best, I rank "Orphaned Hearts" as a twenty. Buy this book and in the midst of the Christmas rush, take an afternoon, sit in front of the fireplace with a cup of hot tea or cocoa and enjoy this book. It will be the best Christmas gift you can give yourself.--Edwina Cowgill

5 stars
I love Christmas novels and this one was a great one! Set during the Great Depression, it tells of the love story Pastor David Langley with the orphaned children he helps. An orphan himself, David understands that Caleb will have it harder than other orphans. He knows the odds are Caleb, with his disability, will not be adopted. Horribly disfigured in the fire that killed his family, David guards himself from further hurt by shutting others out. He doesn't let anyone see his scars because he is sure they will reject him. He is very familiar with rejection from his years in the orphanage. Sadie Miller is the wealthy town spinster and takes in Caleb temporarily. She loves Caleb and longs to be his mother. Unfortunately the authorities do not think hers is a good placement. David and Sadie must find another home for Caleb. AS they work together it seems like David, Sadie and Caleb form a little family. Will Caleb find a home? Will David and Sadie find what they are longing for? A great romance with a little mystery thrown in and a dramatic conclusion makes for an exciting Christmas story!-- K. Thorne

Why Shawna Wrote Orphane Hearts:
Orphaned Hearts is a story inspired by my granddad. He grew up in an orphanage during the Great Depression. My grandmother's father worked at the orphanage's dairy and this was how my grandmother and grandfather met. The empathy created through his own experiences led my grandparents to serve as foster parents for many years, affecting a great many lives.

The main message of this story is that true love conquers pain, but sometimes the biggest obstacle to accepting it is ourself.

Purchase Links.
Desert Breeze Bookstore
Amazon

Author Bio:
Shawna K. Williams is an Inspirational Romance writer who loves telling a story through flawed characters – the only kind she can relate to. She also likes a good dose of nostalgia, which is why many of her stories are set in rural America during the first half of the 20th Century.

When not writing, Shawna spends time with her husband and three children enjoying life on their ranch. She's also an avid reader, book reviewer, blogger, and jewelry designer.

Read more about Shawna K. Williams at http://www.ShawnaKWilliams.com

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Where Love Once Lived, Sidney W. Frost

2010-11-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

Contemporary/Romance

Where Love Once Lived by Sidney W. Frost follows a man at a crossroads as he seeks to regain the love of his former college sweetheart.

Forced to leave Karen by circumstances beyond his control, Brian returns to his hometown after 30 years to find Karen doesn't want to deal with the memories of his painful and unexplained departure. She has worked hard to put her love for Brian behind her and rebuffs his advances. Brian can see that winning her over again isn't going to be as easy as he had hoped, but he's willing to do whatever it takes.

"The story of Brian and Karen shows that, with God's help, it's never too late to find happiness," says Frost. "My hope is that their story makes readers laugh, cry and learn a little more about God's love."

Frost was inspired by his faith to create Where Love Once Lived. The importance of a relationship with God is a major theme in the book. In the novel, Karen's faith in God grew stronger after Brian left, leading to fulfilling work as a lay minister. As she becomes reacquainted with Brian, Karen begins to share with him the strength that can come from faith. Brian, who had turned away from God, eventually comes to realize that the void in his life was not just the loss of Karen but also the loss of God.

Excerpt:
As she wondered about the mystery, Karen peered out the window at the florist’s delivery van in the school parking lot in time to see it leaving. As it disappeared behind the administration building, another vehicle came into view, one that looked like a bus with no windows. On its side in large letters was Austin Public Library Bookmobile.

She’d once loved a bookmobile driver. Memories of that time with him poured in so rapidly she caught her breath. It’d been long ago, but her heart remembered. At first she thought of the love she’d felt back then, but the good memories didn’t last long. She’d gone to the bookmobile as usual that last day, but nothing was to be the same again. She went to Brian with love and exciting news. She left alone. Not just without him, but alone in the world and apart from God.

This couldn’t be the same bookmobile. Nevertheless, she had to see it. She had to walk into it and face her fears. She grabbed her jacket to shield her from the damp November day and rounded up her class.
“Get your coats on, kids. We’re going to the library.”

The children grumbled at the notion, but when they saw what kind of library it was, they stepped livelier. Karen walked inside the bookmobile after making sure Miss Rush had control of the children. She inhaled the familiar odor of used books. She traveled back thirty years with a single whiff. The librarian just inside the front door welcomed her with a smile. A man sat at a desk near the back of the vehicle. Karen pulled a book off the shelf and held it next to her chest, not caring what the title was. With her eyes closed, she could feel Brian standing next to her, loving her, and it was so real, she felt her eyes moisten.

Reviews:
WOW! Where Love Once Loved is a winner
This is a Christian novel and more. Some of that more is a romance and more of the more is an unusual form of a coming of age story. Romance gone wrong due to incomplete communications and immature or irresponsible judgments lead to lives prematurely separated in young adulthood. Those separate lives are not all that bad but leave the principles feeling unfulfilled and incomplete in mid-life. Tensions in the novel stem from efforts and events that work toward reuniting the protagonists. But this is not easy and

requires sometimes painful change for the two main characters. This is not the adolescent discovery of self and sex coming of age. Instead here we have two seasoned and basically successful adults who must mature spiritually. A number of things contribute to that spiritual maturation including painful discoveries of what went so very wrong years ago, forgiveness for those and subsequent events, understanding of the consequences and new empathy that comes from prayer and God's grace.

The setting is a mid-sized Southern city in the mid to late 20th century (Austin, Texas) and exceptionally apt descriptions of real recognizable places and accurate references to the "times" lend authenticity to the novel.

Much of the action takes place on a bookmobile including librarian-patron interactions and a believable chase scene. I think we all make inappropriate use of the word unique at times. But in reviewing Frost's Where Love Once Lived, I can honestly say his use of the bookmobile is unique to the point where it might be considered a supporting character.

In addition to the bookmobile peripheral characters are well developed, interesting in their own right and serve as impediments or more often facilitators of the action. Secondary characters enrich the story and contribute to the growth of the main characters by modeling and interpreting Christian principals.

In support of the main story line there are several minor themes including an interesting view on changing race relations. A related minor and equally interesting minor theme explores how older adults react to the developing loves, marriages and career aspirations of their children. Not blatant at any one point in the novel but clearly one key to the developing relationships and to resolutions to conflicts is a core group composed of several no longer young men that formed in their college age years. Such a core group is rarely found in the real world or in novels either.

This book is a page turner and early on you will begin pulling (praying?) for those folks to work it out.

A great first novel!

I am proud to say I bought Sid's very first book and loved reading it. Rollo has covered the overview so well, but I want to comment on the theme and characters. I thought it was so very creative to use the bookmobile as a center of so much action and activity, and much to my surprise it kept popping up throughout the book. It was so well described I could picture myself being there. I "got into" the characters quite early in my reading, and my interest kept growing. I especially appreciated the comfortable but truthful way the Christian message was presented. I know lives will be touched when reading this book. A Great first novel! Excited to read your next one.

Why Sidney Wrote Where Love Once Lived:
The idea for writing a bookmobile story came to me while driving one back in the 1960's. I was a college student at the University of Texas assigned to drive for a feisty librarian who got us into trouble with the head librarian several times because of helping our patrons in ways unrelated to books. I wanted to write a humorous novel about her, but quickly learned I didn't know much about writing.

The nudge to write the bookmobile story came again in 2004, and this time I said no because I knew it would be too hard. The very next Sunday, my pastor, Dr. Jeanie Stanley, said this: "Trust the Lord God with your dreams and He will help you achieve them." This gave me the idea to turn the whole project over to God.

To remind myself I wasn't alone, I wrote a prayer which I printed and taped next to my computer.

Dear Lord, be my source of inspiration. Give me the words you want the world to hear. Help me create the story and the characters to convey your message in such a way as to be desirable to the business world of publishers. Guide my hands and stay in my mind and my heart while I write and while I edit. Amen

By then I was smart enough to know I needed practical help as well so I started taking online basic fiction writing classes. At the time I was in the Austin Lyric Opera Chorus and rehearsing three times a week for eight or nine months out of the year, and didn't want to take on a large writing project. But, God wouldn't let me use that as an excuse. I retired from the chorus, continued to study and started writing Where Love Once Lived.

I don't want this to come across sounding like I believe my book is the word of God. Far from it. All I'm trying to say is that I had a strong urge to write and publish Where Love Once Lived. I hope it makes the reader laugh and cry, and if just one person should happen to move closer to God because of it, then the effort was worthwhile.

Purchase Links

Amazon Kindle

Lulu.com for other eReader formats

Apple

Or, go to http://sidneywfrost.com/wlol_buy.htm to see all purchase options.

Author Bio:
Sidney W. Frost is an Elder in the Presbyterian Church. He's also a Stephen Leader, a Stephen Minister, and a member of his church choir. He is an Adjunct Professor at Austin Community College where he teaches computer courses. He has a Master of Science degree from the University of Houston and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of California at Long Beach.

He is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, the Writers League of Texas, and the San Gabriel Writers' League.

Awards for Where Love Once Lived include First Place -- 2007 SouthWest Writers Contest in the Inspirational/Spiritual Category, First Place -- 2007 Writers' League of Texas Novel Manuscript Contest, Romance Category, Third Place -- Fourteenth Annual Lone Star Writing Competition, Northwest Houston Chapter of the Romance Writers of America, Inspirational Romance Category and Finalist -- 2006 Yosemite Writers Contest Novel Category.

Website
http://sidneywfrost.com/

Blog
http://christianbookmobile.blogspot.com/

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First Love, Michelle Sutton

2010-10-17T20:10:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary/Series

Josiah and Tara had enjoyed acting in their high school plays. They had also been each other's first lover... in fact; most of the time they'd spent together had been in Tara's bed. When Josiah became a Christian, he left Tara to go to college and didn't look back.

Four years later, Josiah is back in town when his father has a near-fatal heart attack. When they meet up again they realize how much their separation had hurt each of them. But now Tara is a Christian and is trying to live a life that is pleasing to God.

Josiah wants Tara back, but neither knows how to relate to each other without the physical intimacy they once shared. They are determined to do things right this time, but find it more challenging than they'd anticipated.

Excerpt:
She hated to spell it out for him, but it seemed necessary to prevent him from getting the wrong idea. "You're here for a haircut. Don't expect more."

Raising his hands in mock surrender, Josiah chuckled, "Whoa, there. I didn't mean anything by it, I swear."

"Good." Grabbing the black cloth to drape over his shirt, she flipped it open and then pointed to the chair. He sat and she tied it around his neck, a stress headache creeping into her head. Irritation shredded her nerves. Rather than sitting, he peered at her with an incredulous look in his eyes.

"Come on," she winced and touched her forehead. "I don't have much time."

"Aren't you gonna..." Josiah pointed at his hair and nodded toward the sink.

"No." She snapped the cloth again. "Just sit."

"But, that's the best part." Ruffling his hair with both hands, he sighed. "All right, but my hair is sweaty and dusty. I think it'll be easier to cut if it's clean first. I'll even pay you extra."

Did he think he could buy her forgiveness?

But he did have a point. Taking in the faint cloud of dust forming beside his head as he ruffled his hair, Tara sighed. She rolled her eyes and pointed at the sink with her elbow. "All right, all right. Just hurry up. I need to get home."

Josiah crept in slow steps and glanced over his shoulder. Tempted to push him along, she refrained, deciding the less hands-on contact she had with him the better. Maybe that was what he wanted. To get her riled. Well, it was working.

The sooner she cut his hair and sent him on his way, the sooner she'd have time to think about what his return to town might mean. While tempted to quit the acting group to avoid seeing him, she refused to run away. Besides, playacting the part of a socialite at special events in town was the only fun hobby she allowed herself. She refused to give up her only link to acting.

No, she wouldn't give him the satisfaction of quitting. She'd keep playing the part and enjoy every minute of it. No man would take the fun out of her life ever again. Not even someone as devastatingly handsome and as important to her as Josiah had once been.

Reviews:
5 stars
First Love, the second in the Tombstone Treasures series, is a wonderfully, edgy romance. I liked this one even better than the first one. If the trend continues, the third one should be a blockbuster! Michelle has written an edgy, Christian, romantic story that has a little bit of suspense thrown in.

Tara Hinkson has had a tough time since graduating from high school. Her mother was involved in a horrible car wreck that has left her with the mind of a 5 year old and severely disabled. Tara and her mother share a small house just down the street from the beauty shop where Tara works. Since her mother can not be left along, she has had to hire someone to be able to sit with her mom while she works. Can you imagine having to be the "parent" to your mom or dad? Wanting to be able to sit down and share your thoughts and feelings with them or even just to sit and hold each other and not being able to. That would be a very hard adjustment to make.

Josiah Reardon was Tara's long time boyfriend in high school. Things got very heated in their relationship and they spent most of their time in bed. He broke off the relationship when he was getting ready to go off to college. Tara had not heard from him since then, several years, when he walks into her hair salon for a haircut. To say she was shocked would be an understatement. She didn't really like the way she felt when she saw him. The old flame was still there, at least on her part. How did he feel?

The story takes us on Tara & Josiah's journey of trying to build on the past relationship to make a future. But can that be? Every time they get near each other the old feelings take over. The ones that led to the bedroom. Since high school both of them have become Christians. They both know what they are doing is not right in God's eyes but the flesh is weak and they don't seem to be trying too awfully hard to be strong.

I really loved this book! I loved the characters! Michelle did an awesome job of developing them so that the reader can feel their emotions and know what they are going through. I could picture every place that Josiah and Tara were. I felt so bad for Tara's mom and for Tara having to put her own life on hold all these years to take care of her mother. Michelle has written several good bible truths into her story without being "preachy". Way to go, Michelle! You've done it again! -- J. Thompson "Janet's Treasures~~book reviews"

Michelle's books just keep getting better and better! While Never Without Hope and In Plain Sight are still my favorites (5+ stars) First Love gives them a good run. I give it a 4.75. I appreciate that Michelle writes about topics we often don't find in Christian Fiction, and I REALLY appreciate that while her characters are Christians, they don't always do the right thing. It's pleasant to read about what's ideal, but it's inspiring and hopeful to read about God's Grace. Without mistakes, there's no opportunity to write about it. Since I don't know anyone who hasn't made a mistake, Michelle's stories should have a very wide appeal.

First Love is an entertaining and honest story about the difficulties of abstaining from premarital sex when there has been a previous relationship. Michelle explores the issue far beyond just the physical aspect. She gives a heavy dose of emotional side-effects, including confusion, heartache and guilt. As a soon-to-be 40 year old, I enjoyed this book very much, but I strongly recommend it for teens and young adults. One should never underestimate the impact of passing on wisdom through words. Thanks, Michelle! -- Shawna K. Williams - Grace-Inspired Fiction.

Why Michelle Wrote First Love:
The inspiration behind First Love came from a novella project I was working on with three other Barbour authors and I had to draft a first chapter and synopsis for it. Come to find out Barbour didn't think Tombstone would be very romantic so the project went nowhere even with best-selling authors also in on the project. So I just used what I had prepared. I wanted to show how hard it might be to date someone you used to sleep with on a daily basis and who broke your heart when they found God and left. So what happens if you are both Christians in the future and you find out you still have feelings for the other person and decide to give it another try? How do you keep from falling back into bed? How hard would that be? Of course, anyone who knows me knows that my characters usually mess up more than once before they get it together. That's the part I like best. I like writing emotional conflict when it clashes with spiritual values.

Purchase
Also available at Amazon Kindle, B&N, Kobo, iBookstore, Sony, Books on Board, Allromance Ebooks and coming soon to Christianbooks.com.

Author Bio:
Michelle is the author of over a dozen inspirational novels, a book reviewer, an avid blogger, the mother of two young college students, a wife of over two decades, and follower of Jesus Christ.
http://www.michellesutton.net/

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Conception, Jennifer Hartz

2010-10-12T19:19:00.000-07:00

Fantasy/Romance/Series
"I do not think it is a question of where, but when." were the words that Charis left my mother with thirty years ago when I disappeared from Meric…before I was born.

Shortly after being sent back I've been attacked by man-eating Vaipes. I've learned that my father was a power wielding Guardian. I've discovered that the silvery-blue eyes intriguing me my entire life belong to my Watcher, Shaw who is without a doubt the most handsome man I have ever seen. And somehow I need to stop a war mongering tyrant who can manipulate people's thoughts.

So my question isn't where or when. It is how? How can I help the people of Meric when I can't stop myself from falling in love?

Excerpt:
Apparently he didn't need my help.

He pounced with alarming speed. The spin move he performed was so quick, so strong, so devastating that when he completed the one-hundred and eighty degree turn that took less than a matter of seconds he had killed seven of the Vaipes.

He faced me now and the fierce, deep concentration in his face astounded me. He attacked Vaipe after Vaipe, and the beasts continued to fall before him. I couldn't believe how swiftly and fluidly Shaw moved. He had pulled out his smaller sword now and assailed the creatures two at a time.

Shaw truly had to be the greatest warrior in all of Meric. None of the Vaipes even came close to him. He just spun, ducked, thrashed, lunged, turned and twisted so effortlessly that it barely appeared he exerted any energy at all.

When the last Vaipe lay dead, he walked toward me, wiping the blood and gore off his face. I stared, amazed by what he just accomplished.

He looked me over, drawing the back of his hand across his cheek. "Are you alright?"

It was a loaded question. Was I physically injured? Was I mentally scarred for life?

I replayed the last few minutes in my head. I witnessed a man being eaten and Shaw slaying more than twenty Vaipes. The stuff of nightmares.

"Yeah, I'm fine." Even though I wanted my statement to sound brave, I couldn't control the shakiness of my voice.

"You should go inside one of the houses," Shaw reiterated.

I was about remind him of my last answer to that suggestion when a Vaipe leapt at us from on top of the fence. I dropped my sword and tried to shove Shaw out of the way, but he was just out of my arms reach. My telekinetic powers kicked in again and I brushed Shaw off to the side with my left hand as easily as sweeping dust from a shelf. With my right hand, I held the Vaipe in midair. It looked at me with such hatred and rage that I couldn't help but scoff ever so slightly. Then I thrust my right arm as hard as I could, throwing the Vaipe into the fence knocking the wind out of it. Grabbing my sword again, I ran to the dazed monster. I hesitated for just one second, wondering if it was right to kill something that was knocked unconscious, when its eyes snapped open and it snarled at me, bracing for attack. The instinct to protect myself outweighed my moral debate, and I slashed it straight through heart.

I turned back to Shaw, breathing hard. He stared at me with raised eyebrows and a slightly open mouth.

I smiled. "How can I go inside a house when clearly you need my help."

Shaw snorted a laugh. "Clearly." He gathered up his bow and nodded for me to follow.

Review:
Five Stars!
Christina's ordinary life as a single thirty-year-old school teacher takes a twist when she is unexplainably transported from current day Pittsburgh to a mysterious place called Meric. There, she discovers great wonders; from the beauty of the land, to the secret of her birth and the magical powers she unknowingly possesses. She also learns why a pair of mesmerizing blue eyes has followed her throughout her life.

However, not all is glorious in the land of Meric. A dark evil threatens its people, an evil that thirty years earlier killed Christina's father and drove her into hiding before she was even born. Now that she has returned, Christina must fulfill her destiny or Meric will be doomed under evil's rule.

I can't believe this book was Jennifer Hartz's debut novel. It was pure adventure from start to finish. Jennifer masterfully weaves humor, mystery, action, and romance into a fantastic tale. The pacing is just perfect, dropping hints here and there as deep mysteries are unveiled. At the same time we get to know a host of delightful, well-rounded characters, who I grew to love. The tension builds and builds and I was literally holding my breath at the end.

This book is the first in a series, and I will definitely get the next on the first day it releases. If you enjoy fantasy with Inspirational elements (Lord of the Rings, Chronicles of Narnia, Kingdom of Arnhem) then you'll love this. -- Shawna K. williams, Grace-Inspired Fiction.

Why Jennifer Wrote Conception:
While having a conversation with one of my students, I said something that would make my already busy life a heck of lot busier! We were discussing The Twilight Saga. As you know, most teenage girls love Twilight, I really enjoyed the books too, but we were talking about how we were slightly disappointed with the forth book in the series. I eventually said, "I certainly can't judge Stephanie Myers because I haven't written a book let alone a bestselling mega smash series." This got me to thinking. I have always wanted to write a novel – it has been a lifelong dream – why not give it a shot. That day, while driving home from work, I started thinking about all of the books, movies, and TV shows I loved. I pulled out elements from all of these things that really captured my attention and slowly they morphed into my own fantasy realm.

For three months my daydreams continued as I drove back and forth from work. I have an hour and a half commute – three hours a day in the car – so my fantasy story really grew, and grew quickly. The story lines became more and more intricate and the personalities of my characters really started to take on lives of their own. Finally, summer rolled around and my fingers finally met the keys. Writing was the easy part since I had such a structured skeleton to work with. In the two and a half months of summer break I was able to write the entire 78,000 word novel that is now Future Savior Book One: Conception. I have the other four novels of the series completely mapped out in my head.

Purchase

Also available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Sony, Allromance Ebooks, Books on Board
, iPad iBookstore, and soon, Christianbooks.com

Author Bio:
Jennifer Hartz wrote and illustrated her first novel, an epic tale featuring winged fairies losing their magic wands to evil trolls, back when she was six years old. She has been a fan of fantasy and science fiction ever since. From the land of Mordor to a galaxy far, far away, Jennifer loves it all.

Born in Pittsburgh, but currently living in northeast North Carolina with her amazing husband and beautiful son, Jennifer spends her days teaching at a small private school in Norfolk, Virgina. Other than reading the Bible, Jennifer loves to read (and now write) Speculative Christian Ficion that has wonderful romantic storylines and exciting twists and turns.

The Future Savior series is Jennifer's first crack at a novel since the early days of fairy wand heists and she couldn't be more thrilled with its quick success.

http://jenniferhartz.com/

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Masquerade Marriage, Anne Greene

2010-10-10T20:27:00.000-07:00

Historical/Romance

A SECRET LIST
To protect his loved ones and escape the dark fate of his brothers, a noted warrior abandons his identity. Hiding from relentless soldiers who want him dead, Brody MacCaulay vows to protect the woman he loves more than life, more than freedom, more than Scotland. But his presence throws her into danger.

A VOW HONORED
To escape an arranged marriage to an abusive noble, a Lowland Lady weds a stranger to save his life. But vows spoken do not make a marriage, especially when Megan MacMurry holds a different love inside her heart.

A SACRIFICE MADE
Outlawed, and with a price on his head, Brody condemns himself to a life of heartbreak without Megan. Wanting her desperately, knowing he can't have her, he heads alone to certain death..

Excerpt:
Like a determined hero, the fugitive warrior strode through the door at the far end of the tiny stone kirk.

Megan’s eyes widened. Her clenched jaw relaxed. Some of her dread dissolved.

“Impressive.” Molly, Megan’s Irish maid, whispered from where they stood together in the vestibule.

He stopped in front of the hand-carved altar and half-turned toward her. Megan pulled in an uneven breath. This Highlander, wearing formal kilts, was no scrawny lad grown older, nor was he a big, hairy Scot with a bushy beard. The tall, strapping soldier stood with legs braced as if about to do battle.

Her heart skipped. Though she’d known Brody when she wore short skirts, this blond warrior was far more than she expected. Her pulse throbbed in her temples. Doubt niggled her brain. Brody was too tall, too obviously a Highlander. How could she hope to pass him off as a Lowland Laird? He appeared to have too big a chip on his shoulder to let her command him.

Brody’s thick sandy hair swept the collar of his linen shirt. Lace-trimmed cuffs matched the white jabot at his muscular throat. A silver broach clapsed his crimson and black tartan to his wide right shoulder. His Claymore, dirk, and thick sword belt startled her.

Megan suppressed a shudder. The English outlawed kilts. With his dress, Brody spat in the face of the English and further imperiled his life. Why?

His intense sapphire stare blazed a trail across the empty wooden pews toward her. His eyes made her feel dizzy as if she just danced a fast reel with a lively partner.

Molly grinned and handed Megan the bridal flowers.

What had she gotten herself into?

Review:
5 Cups
Megan, a lowland lady marries Brody a Highlander on the run from the English to save his life. Filled with rich Scottish language and descriptive passages, this book literally tosses you back in time to a land where men fought to be free from the tyranny of the English. (Honestly feel ashamed to be English having read this.)

I literally sat and read all day, pausing only to feed the kids, so compelling is the story. I laughed and even cried. The emotions run deep as Megan and Brody slowly see past the pretence of their marriage and fall for each other, only for fate to step in.

Definitely one to read, this will have you riveted to your comp/e-reader/book and one you’ll want to read again. -- Clare, Coffee Times Romance

Why Anne Wrote Marriage Masquerade:
I was motivated to write this book after visiting Scotland. The final battle between the English and the Scottish Highlanders changed the Highlands forever. A way of life ended. The drama in this story appealed to me, and so I wrote Masquerade Marriage. I love this time in history and so enjoyed living it as I wrote the book. I hope the reader finds a new world to love as he reads my book.

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Author Bio:
Anne Greene writes historical and suspense novels. She’s of Scotch ancestry of Clan Gunn. When she’s not deployed with her military husband, she makes her home in McKinney, Texas. She has four children. Tim LaHaye led her to the Lord when she was twenty-one, and Chuck Swindoll is her Pastor. In 1989 Anne graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Literary Studies from the University of Texas Dallas. Anne loves to travel and has visited twenty-four countries. See her web site http://www.annegreeneauthor.com/ for pictures. At present Anne is in Seoul, South Korea, serving her country with her hero husband, Larry, an active-duty Colonel in the Army Special Forces. Her highest hope is that her stories transport you to a different world and touch your heart.

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Beyond Summer, Carie Lawson

2010-09-24T10:03:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary/Series

Zane has a theory in life: Beautiful women are more trouble than they're worth. So when he's coerced into spending the summer with the very beautiful Carly as his nanny, he expects the worst. But she changes his opinion, one good deed at a time. Until he gets a little too close and finds out his beauty queen is nothing more than a liar and a thief. Theory proven.

But the pretty liar has two little girls who've stolen Zane's heart. He's going to have to wade in and untangle the mess Carly's made of her life for her daughters. Can Zane ignore the theory Carly's proven, forgive her, and accept that beauty is sometimes more than skin deep?

Excerpt:
In order to make enough room for his shoulders, Zane put his arm on the pew behind her. "Thanks for, uh, smoothing things with Leah."

She appreciated his discomfort. "No problem. If you'd told me you'd planned a date with the Sunday School teacher, I'd have made excuses to Anna and Brie."

He shrugged. "It wasn't a date. We're just going to service together."

Carly leaned forward and eyed the end of the pew. Her eyebrows raised. "She's not going to fit, Zane."

The corner of his lip kicked up. There was a spark of the old Carly again inside of her. It was good.

"I'm meeting her for the next service." Zane explained.

Now she was confused. "Is it a different kind of... service?"

"No." He shook his head.

Enjoying his rueful grin, she said, "Two services, huh? You must've been bad this week."

The old man on her left smothered a chuckle behind his hand. Zane cut a look at her. "Who'd have guessed there was so much sass behind your spit and polish shine."

Carly studied her fingernails during what she imagined would be the final prayer.

Immediately following, the crowd started moving like a group of ants around the big room, lining up to get out the door. Zane stood and took a step back. If there hadn't been so many people swarming, she could've managed to get out without touching him. As it was there was no way, so she might as well give in to temptation.

Her hand touched his waist as she moved past him and she tossed her hair back. It had been a long time since she'd flirted, but he more than deserved it for making her stand there with the lovely and perfect Miss Leah while he explained away double booking them. She tilted her

chin and looked up into his face. "So, two lessons today on humility for the man who never makes a mistake. Maybe this really was heaven sent."

His hand went to her arm, not hard enough to hurt, but tight enough to capture her there longer than she'd planned to be. Someone bumped into her from behind and then she was trapped against him.

His eyes were hard as he looked into hers. "Don't kid yourself, Carly. I'm anything but perfect."

Reviews:
Carie Lawson has done another marvelous job with this edition of the Twisted Roots series. I LOVE the McCords! ... Trust me when I say you won't be disappointed with a Carie Lawson book!!! I would highly recommend Beyond Summer. It can be read as a stand alone but for a richer experience I would recommend you read Beyond Africa first. A thank you goes to the author for providing me with this complimentary review copy! Great Job Carie!!! Can't wait for Beyond Ever After!" -- Love 2 Read Novels Blog

"Okay, Carie Lawson has become a favorite author of mine. This is her second e-book in the Twisted Roots Book Series and I have loved both stories! I am afraid I didn't get much done, because I just wanted to sit and finish this story - I really liked it!.. This story was just all around good. I can't wait to read the next one in this series! You won't be disappointed when you read this book!" -- Judy Glidden - That's a Novel Idea Review Blog

"Carie has done a superb job of developing her characters and their situations. You are drawn into the book, and become a part of the families. This is one of those books that I didn’t want to put down! It was worth just a few hours of sleep to finish the book. I highly recommend this and also the first in the series, “Beyond Africa”. You won’t be disappointed." -- Janet's Treasures.blogspot.com

Why Carie Wrote Beyond Summer:
When I wrote Beyond Africa, the intention was always to have four books in the Twisted Roots. Zane appeared at the end of Beyond Africa to give his brother a helping hand. He was quiet and mysterious, and I knew that telling his story was going to be fun. Because he had such an attitude I wanted him to have this softer side, which really came out in his interactions with his own son and Carly's two girls. More than that, Beyond Summer is really a story of redemption. Left to our own devises, without God's help, we tend to make a mess of living. Only by obeying the Lord and searching out His will allow Him to start unravelling the messes we make in life.

Purchase from Amazon.

Purchase from Desert Breeze Publishing.

Other books in this series:

Beyond Africa

Author Bio:
Carie Lawson home schools her four kids, drives the soccer van --- complete with dirty socks and McDonalds bags scattered throughout --- and tries to sneak away to her computer whenever possible to write. She is an active member of a local writer's group, Middle Tennessee Christian Writers, and received third place in the North Texas Romance Writer's Great Expectations contest in the Inspirational Romance category.

For more about Carie Lawson please visit http://www.carielawsonbooks.com/.

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Hearts Surrender, Marianne Evans

2010-09-21T22:34:00.000-07:00

Contemporary/Romance /Series
Kiara Jordan is a sophisticated modernista, but beneath an engaging personality and super-model looks, her heart hungers, and she longs for deeper meaning in her life.

Ken Lucerne is the charismatic young pastor of Woodland Church ; he's adjusting to life on his own following the death of his wife and copes by keeping as busy with parish life and mission work as he can.

A home-building mission in Pennsylvania brings them together, and forces them to look hard and deep at the relationship they share, and where God means for it to go. Already bound by mutual respect and caring, love dawns, a love that takes them to a life-point neither would have expected.

After all, can a chic, vivacious woman find fulfillment within the quiet, mission-centered life of a clergyman? Can they trust God's hand strongly enough to surrender their hearts to one another…forever?

Excerpt:
“I’ve been the wallflower who bloomed. But I’ve never believed in myself enough to give up the fancy trappings. I've clung to vanity-centered ideals for too long, I suppose. I’ve worked hard to fit in, and finally I succeeded. Problem is, that kind of success is a double-edged sword. That pathway, once you start to follow it, is hard to leave.”

In an unexpected, graceful motion, Ken caught her swing by the chains. He held her in place, suspended backward, with nothing but a cushion of air between them. All at once Kiara went dizzy, tempted once more by that full, supple mouth, and the satiny-looking fall of his thick brown hair. He was close enough to touch. In this moment, she wanted nothing more than to do just that.

“Some time – at some point – I’d like to hear more about that, Kiara. I’d like know how you became the woman you are.”

“I’d bore you to tears. It’s nothing extraordinary.”

“All present evidence to the contrary.” He set her gliding once again and Kiara’s stomach performed a sparkling fall-away. She delighted in his words but forced herself to brush them aside before they could take root and sway her into believing he saw richness to her spirit. After all, it was part of Ken’s persona to be gracious and encouraging.

He continued, “You're moving forward in directions that are not only admirable, but eye-opening – not just for you, most likely, but to everyone who's part of your life. Don't hold to what other people see, or expect of you, Kiara. Be who you are. And while you're at it, create the best version of yourself you can imagine. After all, the only question, with the only relevance that matters, is this: Who are you now?"

When she sailed back his way, he caught the chains of her swing once again and whispered in her ear, "I believe in you."

With that, he released her on a push, sending Kiara on another dizzying spin of sensation. He walked away, retracing his steps up the path to the cabins and mess hall. She swung to a stop then sat in silence for long moments after he left, absorbing, shivering in a way that had nothing at all to do with the cool of the encroaching night.

Reviews:
Five Hearts – Five Heart Sweetheart Winner - The Romance Studio, Brenda Talley

Ms. Evans has once again delivered a book which I could not put down. I had looked forward to it since completing book one, Heart’s Crossing. I was definitely not disap-pointed. After setting such a high standard for herself in her first book, she just proved that she was fully capable of maintaining the level of expert writing we have seen prior to this. After reading this, I cannot wait for the rest of this series. If possible, it just got bet-ter than the first book. I anxiously await the sequels to this book. I commend Ms. Evans for her ability to write such a book and keep our interest high.

4.5 Books – Happily Ever After Reviews, Clare

A sequel to Heart's Crossing, Ms Evans has once again captured the spirit of true love in Hearts Surrender. It's not necessary to have read the first book, to be enchanted by this one, as it stands alone, second in a series of four. This tender love story, not only puts Ken and Kiara through the emotional wringer, captivates the reader's heart as well and more than once I could have done with one of Pastor Ken's hanky's!

Why Marianne Wrote Hearts Surrender:
Folks who are familiar with the Inspirational E-Books blog may recall my first visit here, when I talked about Hearts Crossing. When I finished Hearts Crossing, and waited to find out if it would even be published, the voices of Ken and Kiara, two of the secondary characters, began speaking to me. Actually, I take that back. They weren’t speaking, they were shouting at me for their story to be told. I wrote the sequel, Hearts Surrender, on faith alone – and by God’s grace these books have led to the creation of the Woodland Series. In this book I was very intrigued by the idea of taking a charismatic, energetic young pastor, and finding out what would happen when he fell in love with a vivacious, chic, stylish woman of modern influence. Not a ‘bad girl’ by any stretch, but a woman seeking more in her life than the latest in high style, and relationships that only run surface deep. Kiara is a woman on a faith journey, who struggles with self worth, and Ken is God’s answer to her hearts call.

Take Away:
Always dive beneath the surface of your most important relationships; find the deeper meaning, the God-given purpose of why people are, and remain, a part of your life.

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Author Bio:
Marianne Evans has written numerous contemporary romances. Kensington Publishing purchased her first book, Friends & Lovers. Her second, Right Hand Man, followed shortly thereafter. Her third release from Kensington, Hannah’s Heart, won critical acclaim from The Oakland Press. Her fourth book is her inspirational romance debut with White Rose Publishing – a contest winning novella entitled Hearts Crossing.

The success of Hearts Crossing as led to the creation of The Woodland Series. Hearts Surrender, Hearts Communion and Hearts Key will tell the continuing story of characters first introduced in Hearts Crossing, all of which will revolve around Woodland Church. The series will be available in both print and e-book format. Hearts Surrender will be released in late 2010.

A lifelong resident of Michigan, Marianne is an active member of Romance Writers of America. She’s a long-time member of Greater Detroit RWA where she served the chapter in a number of capacities, but most notably for two terms as Chapter President. She also belongs to the Faith Hope and Love chapter of RWA, American Christian Fiction Writers and the Michigan Literary Network.

For more about Marrianne Evans, please visit http://www.marianneevans.com/

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Moselle's Insurance, LoRee Peery

2010-09-19T18:13:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary
Creative artist Moselle Carson gives new life to old items, but she can't seem to renew her shattered ideal of love. When she returns to her hometown to help with a new family business, memories of a broken heart and small-town gossip chip away the tough exterior she's erected over the years. Now she's forced to decide whether she'll rebuild the wall or trust that true love never dies when it is ordained by God.

Generous insurance agent and vulnerable firefighter, Eric Todd, remembers too well how he mistreated Moselle and then set her aside.
Now he longs for true love and the second chance to become a husband and father. Can he learn to forgive himself and still keep the secret that may redeem him in her eyes?

Excerpt:
“You haven’t grown an inch.” He lightly touched the top of her head, then simultaneously tapped her crown and squeezed her shoulder. “But I have.”

Eric gently moved her out of the way. “Check it out.”

Without thinking, Moselle grabbed his arm for balance while she inserted her feet back into her shoes. Even with heels, she had to stand on tiptoe to reach the woodwork behind his head.

Moselle swallowed.

Eric surrounded her.

Heat rose in her cheeks. Somehow, she managed to croak, “Two inches sound about right?”

He didn’t answer. She sensed his gaze searching her face. His breath moved the wispy hairs at her temple.

Would they be in their own laundry room if the past had been rewritten? She’d never let herself pursue that dream of marriage to Eric after their break-up.

“You’re lovely today, Moselle, as always. The colors you wear make you look Irish somehow.” He flicked the circles at her left ear and let his hand rest on her shoulder. “But this wolf suspended in silver is definitely not Irish.”

They grinned at one another.

“Having a hard time staying mad at me, Moze?”

“To be angry, a person has to care.”

“Oh, I think you care, sweets. You just don’t want to admit it to yourself.”

He moved a thumb. The rough touch felt feather-light over the pulse pounding at her throat. The sensation traveled all the way down to her knees. He lifted a finger and traced her bottom lip. She moaned a silent melt at the airy feeling in her head.

His voice came as a raspy whisper, “It’s easier not to care, isn’t it?”

Reviews:
This story show us that God loves us and wants only the best for us even if we don't know what the best is. This story is a true love story of God. I loved the characters and the setting of the town.
Reviewed by Wendy at Happily Ever After Reviews Rating:

This is my first experience with Ms. LoRee Peery but I hope it will not be my last. She has a distinct way of writing which absolutely gripped my attention. Her characters are dynamic, vibrant people who love God and, previously had loved each other. This book is a full-length novel which delved into the characters more deeply than shorter stories. She carried us through their deepest depths of despair and their ultimate times of joy.
Ms. Peery’s secondary characters are also clearly defined. It gives the impression that we, the readers, are there inside the novel with them. Her views on Christianity and serving God are presented in a concise, understandable way which an unbeliever could read and enjoy. She gets her point across without being overly preachy.
I highly recommend this book by Ms. Peery. It will certainly be a hit and is written so that anyone can read it. Look for this author to obtain high recognition.
Brenda Talley at The Romance Studio Rating:

Why Loree wrote the Moselle's Insurance:
I wrote this book because I couldn’t not write this book. I loved the idea of kooky Frivolities when it first came to me. I love the idea of crafty entrepreneur family women. Above all, I love reading about forgiveness and acceptance. God uses everyday people and everyday circumstances to touch the lives of others. His redeeming grace shows up in the lives of people all around us — be they biblical, fictional, or in our families today.

Purchase for Kindle
Purchase from White Rose Publishing

Author Bio:
I am blessed to live in the country with my husband, and have lived in Nebraska all my life. We built our home with our own hands, and even lived in the basement while finishing the rest of the house. After thirty-odd years, we are updating our Victorian so it doesn’t look so much like the 1970s. Comfy leather has replaced reproduction Victorian made-for-looks.

Thanks mostly to our farmer neighbor (and my hubby’s muscles), I have dug, drug, carried, rolled, and scrubbed countless rocks to create several rock gardens where flowers abound. I enjoy the outdoors at all times, but mostly in April and May; September and October. This is my favorite time of the year.

An avid reader all my life, I have books in every room and take a book or my ereader everywhere I go.

I have been blessed to be involved in a wonderful church where people are real and honestly care about the lives of others. My deepest desire in life is that all those I love come to know the saving grace of Jesus.

www.loreepeery.com
Best wishes to you, LoRee!

Don't for get about the weekly drawing! Just leave a comment. Have a great week and Happy Reading!

Healing Grace, Lisa Lickel

2010-09-14T23:17:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary/Life Issues

A haunting story of love and sacrifice...

Grace Runyon could fix anything--until her husband got cancer. She couldn't help him. She couldn't save him. No one understands. No one would ever forgive her. She has to run. It takes another sick man and his little boy to help her fight her way out of self-pity into the light of redemption. But will her new friends stick with her when they discover her secret?

Ted Marshall wanted to be more than Grace’s landlord. But a dying man has no business asking a woman like to her love him back. Can he settle for a taste of her faith in whatever it is that makes her so special?

Just when Ted and Grace begin to hope for the future, Ted relapses. Grace faces the ultimate choice once again: Trusting God to work through her precious gift, or letting a terminally ill man die. What if the price is more than she can pay?

A recommended book club read

Group question guide included

Excerpt:
Ted stumbled in at dark. Grace met him at the door where his expression caused her to take assessing one look before turning to distract Eddy with her computer. She quickly found a game place for children and set him down at it. Eddy looked wonderingly at her, for she had not let him play with the machine before.

“Let’s see if you can beat my score,” Grace gushed out. He complied for once without question.

Ted had made it through the living room and grabbed at the entrance to the kitchen with a shaky hand. “Hey… there, Eddy.” Ted lurched with the next step he took. “I think I need…”

Grace grabbed him before Eddy saw his near tumble and led him to her room, struggling mightily with his tall frame to direct him down the hallway and angle him across the bed. She deftly pulled the cover back before he landed, making the bedstead creak. She grabbed his shoulders to settle his head and neck on her pillow and let his equilibrium adjust to being prone. When she knew he wouldn’t be sick all over her bed, she gently untied his boots and lifted his emaciated legs, accidentally coming into contact with his skin above the socks. A familiar tingle began along the webbing between her thumb and forefinger and she pulled quickly away.

Ted moved restlessly, drawing in his breath. “I don’t know if your hands are warm or cold,” he rasped. Grace jumped back.

She didn’t smell alcohol. What had happened? “Ted? What’s wrong?”

“So tired. I forgot to eat lunch.”

“Rest, then. I’ll be back in a little bit with some food for you.”

He grabbed for her hand when she turned to leave. “Wait!” His voice barely rose above a whisper. “Wait. I want, I—thank you—I want you to know that—” his voice trailed off and his shoulders began to shake as he wept.

Grace sighed and grabbed a straight chair and pulled it close. She hadn’t cried in two years. Two years! What had caused him to lose control like this?

She gently dislodged her hand from Ted’s convulsive grasp. Her legs itched to run again; right now she’d like nothing better than to run from this little family with their strange problems. Everything had happened so fast. She just wanted to be left alone to build relationships for herself at her own pace. Excuses drizzled through her mind—all the reasons she should leave Michigan and go somewhere—anywhere else. Somewhere safe.

This house had been too good of a deal. She moved too quickly to purchase it. She hadn’t explored the neighborhood enough. The real estate agent misled her when she said the brothers next door wouldn’t bother her. How wrong she had been. Both of them bothered her. She wasn’t a mother any more, not a wife, not a professional anything. Why did they have to ask her and ask her and keep asking her to do things for them? Couldn’t he see that she was just as tired as he was?

Ted gasped and brought his knee up, face convulsing.

“Ted! What do you need? What can I get for you?”

“No-nothing. Just a—spas-m. It’ll—pass. Wait.”

Grace watched him gulp in air and sweat. She felt as helpless as she did watching a patient in labor. Not much she could do until it was time to push. Michigan? Why had God brought her to Michigan?

Grace had not counted on there being an Eddy, and a Ted. The Ted who now wriggled like a fish out of water on her own bed and whose tears wet her pillow.

She breathed out. Ted slowly relaxed and sighed. He turned over to look at her with eyes that gleamed in the dim lighting. “Jilly left me after the accident when the sickness started.”

He did not apologize for crying. Men never do.

“The first seizure, she freaked. By the third one, she was gone. Didn’t even take Eddy. He was only a year old. What was I supposed to do?” He swallowed, the noise exaggerated in the dimly lit room. “Eddy’s been through too much for a little kid. All he’ll remember when he grows up is that he never had a mom and his dad got sick and died.”

He was really laying it on thick, feeling sorry for himself. Grace blinked at her internal burst of sarcasm and squashed her emotions. Professionals did not get involved. Whatever his diagnosis, he had regained strength since she first met him. Until today, that is. Grace had been so raw upon arrival, the wound barely scabbed over from her own losses, that she could not reach out to anyone else. That God would need her, demand that she use her gifts so soon had been repulsive, a hurt beyond deep. Another betrayed that sent her reeling.

Grace had buried that caring piece of herself in Woodside. She had nothing left to give; no desire to, for that matter. But the gift, had she left it there, too? Was it time? She was not ready to follow that thought. What was wrong with her? “What are you talking about, Ted? You’re so much better. What happened?”

Silence. Sniff.

“Come, Ted. You must have just had a bad day. Rest, and I’ll get you something to eat.”

Ted closed his eyes. “It’s not right I tell you my problems,” he allowed. “I hardly know anything about you. And you’re right—there were only six months of seizures after the accident.”

He lay back and rubbed the prominent scar at his temple. “They stopped, but then I started losing control of my muscles. It’s a good thing Jilly wasn’t here for that.” He scrubbed at his cheeks, grasping again at her hand. “Stay just a little longer, please? Eddy will be okay. I never asked you before. Do you have any family?”

Grace snatched her hand away and jumped up. “I’ll let you rest now. You’ll feel better soon, I’m sure.”

Ted grabbed at her hip as she turned in the tight space and reached for her wrist to pull her close with a surprising surge of strength.

Grace resisted the urge to fight him. She held her breath, not wanting Eddy to hear anything. She had to strain to listen to Ted’s soft croon.

“You’ve been so good to me and to Eddy. Why?”

She let him stroke the hair of her temple. She closed her eyes. So long…so long it been since anyone had touched her like this. She felt his fingers move across her cheek to trace the corner of her mouth.

“Can I be your husband?”

For the first time since she put him to bed, Grace felt a reluctant tug at her lips. She pulled away, put her hands on her hips and looked down at him. “You wish.”

Reviews:
Great book!, July 20, 2009
By John Otte (South St. Paul, MN United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Healing Grace (Paperback)

I saw the ending coming. But that's only because I got to read this one before it was published. Insert big cheesy grin here.

No, seriously, it was my pleasure to read Lisa J. Lickel's book, Healing Grace. Lisa is one of my fantabulous critique partners and I got to read the end of this one when we first met. So for me, it was interesting to see how the book started.

It's the story of Grace Runyon. Grace is from a small town in Tennessee, a Christian community where gifts of the Spirit are alive and well. Grace has the gift of healing. Or at least, she did. But then tragedy up-ends her life in a major way and she runs as far as she can, all the way to the town of East Bay, Michigan. There she tries to recover from her loss.

Only to find herself on the verge of a new one. The house she buys belonged to a single father named Ted Marshall. Ted is battling serious health problems that will likely prove to be fatal. Even though Grace is still suffering from the traumatic scars of her previous life, she finds herself falling in love with Ted. That's a problem, because it seems as if God and her gift have abandoned her. What can she do when she's falling in love with a man that she could have healed but can't anymore?

Lisa's book was great. You really feel for Grace as she tries to cope with her loss and tries to construct a new life for herself. It isn't as easy as it sounds, especially since there are undercurrents in East Bay that threaten to take her down. Lisa especially weaves together some great mental images with her words, conjuring up the area around East Bay and making it live. And Eddy Marshall, Ted's son, has to be the most precocious fictional kid I've met in a long time.

So go and check this one out for yourself. You won't be disappointed!

"a modern-day tale of healing touch", November 2, 2009
By Julie A. Saffrin (Excelsior, MN United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Healing Grace (Paperback)

By just reading the book's title, you may think this book is about a woman named Grace who has the ability to heal people. And you would be right. But "Healing Grace" has a double meaning. It is a book about Grace, a woman who is grieving over a tremendous loss, even when she possesses the gift of healing.

No matter what spiritual gifts we have been given, the truth is, we are still human and do not have a full view of our lives, nor how or even if, our lives influence another person. We also cannot see the future of our loved ones. Thus is the case for our main character, Grace Runyon.

In this story, Lickel's characters don't have easy answers. In fact, sometimes they don't have answers at all. Lickel allows her characters to ask tough questions like why prayers go unanswered, why we suffer loss, and why, sometimes, a healing touch works while another time it may not.

As I read book, I thought of a couple of things: Hawthorne's "Scarlet Letter," the Salem witch trials, and Anne Boleyn. Why? Because these women were judged without evidence of their wrongdoings.

Lickel does a nice job of keeping the reader turning pages. I liked her use of the Petoskey stone and that it is both a rock and a fossil. I felt a slight metaphor, that the stone only shows its fossils when it is wet. Who do we become, when under pressure? Do we stay true to who we are or change to fit into what the world tells us we should be? Another way I also looked at the Petoskey stone as a metaphor with regard to our lives is this: Dare we reveal who we really are? Can we risk doing so without fear of rejection?

My only complaint in this book was from a publishing standpoint. I counted more than 20 typos in this book. How can two ".." be missed at a sentence's end?

I give Lickel kudos for tackling a hard subject for today's reader and thank her for writing this compelling novel.

Why Lisa Wrote Healing Grace:
Dear Readers:
Healing Grace is a personal story that came from a time in my family's life that needed to know that God's healing touch was going to take care of my brother's mysterious health issues. It was the second book I tried to write, and I've learned a lot since then. I've been asked whether or not I believe in the spiritual gift of healing. I believe in miracles, I believe in a God whose perfect and good Will is bigger than any problems we experience here on earth. I have been surprised to find the issue of the practice of the Biblical spiritual gifts to be a divisive issue. I'm sad about that. People are desperate for answers to their troubles. They look in all kinds of places and often find answers that cause more pain. Healing Grace is a novel, it's a work of fiction that is my attempt to give readers a good story while offering food for thought about where true answers can be sought and found. I enjoy getting together with readers and would love to meet virtually with your book club. Please contact me through my websiste.

Purchase

Author Bio:
Lisa Lickel is a midwestern author and graduate of the Christian Writers Guild. Her publishing credits include newspaper features, local history editing, magazine articles, devotionals, radio theater, and several novels. She is the editor of Creative Wisconsin, a magazine of Wisconsin Regional Writers, loves to mentor new authors and enjoys participation in several reading and writing clubs. She regularly reviews books for several publicity companies and occasionally freelance edits. Find her on Facebook, Shoutlife, Amazon and Goodreads. Visit her website at http://lisalickel.com, http://reflectionsinhindsight.wordpress.com/ and http://WisconsinAuthorReview.blogspot.com.

I love what Lisa wrote as her reason for writing this book. Lisa is an author who makes you think. If this book interests you, be sure to also check out her other book, Meander Scar. Don't forget to leave a comment!

Mended Heart, Mary Manners

2010-09-10T00:30:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary
Shane Calkin is a former bad-boy-wannabe fighting to raise his spunky niece and a rambunctious puppy.

Jade McAllister nurses a wounded heart as she struggles to escape her mother’s rejection…and Shane’s.

Nine years have passed since they last saw each other, and a terrible secret looms. Will the secret destroy them, or have the years taught them how to trust…and to love?

Excerpt:
“What are you doing here?”

Shane slid two English muffins into the toaster and pressed the lever to warm them. “Claire let me in an hour ago. She had to get to the hospital.”

Jade brushed fingers through long strands of wavy hair and tossed her head to work out the tangles. Her eyes glittered beneath sunlight that streamed through the window over the sink, and she pulled the edges of her powder-blue terrycloth robe tighter before cinching the belt. “I’m not a charity case. I don’t need a babysitter.”

He let the comment slide. “Nice slippers.”

She glanced down to see two fuzzy bunny heads staring back at her.

“Claire bought them for me--a gag gift last Christmas.” The pink of a blush crept up her neck. No matter she wasn’t wearing a lick of makeup and that her hair was matted and tangled--she still looked beautiful.”

“I made you breakfast.” He reached for the muffins as they popped from the toaster, nicely browned. He gave each a healthy slap of butter as Jade looked on. The aroma of eggs and crispy bacon filled the air.

“I’m not hungry.” Like a traitor, her stomach chose just that time to let loose a rumble that could have rivaled an earthquake.

“Your belly begs to differ. Did you eat anything at all last night?”

She crossed her arms over her stomach and ignored the question.

Reviews:
"Mended Heart is reminiscent of Karen Kingsbury's work...I couldn't put it down. Can't wait for the next book." -- Laura Maturo, Chicago, IL

"Mended Heart deals with real-life issues. You have a winner here." -- Sharon Kelly, Seymour, TN

Why Mary Wrote Mended Heart:
Mended Heart highlights the power of grace and forgiveness. No family is perfect...each has its own set of quirks, problems and hurts. I wanted to show that through God's love and grace. healing is possible and lovely.
Purchase

Author Bio:
I live in the foothills of the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains with my husband, Tim, our daughter Danni, and the cherished pets we’ve rescued from local animal shelters…dogs Molly and Abby and cats Lucky and Gus.

I’m active in my church, where I help cook Wednesday night meals and work with the trustees on church construction and beautification projects. I’m also active with the youth, and help raise funds for mission projects through our breakfast table.

I also teach 7th grade math and English at Seymour Middle School. I love working with teenagers, and have been blessed to know many wonderful children and parents during my 25 years of teaching.

I enjoy the outdoors and am looking forward to cooler autumn weather. I enjoy cultivating flowers, taking long walks with my wonderful husband, and reading romance books while lying in a hammock beneath our century-old shade trees.

Visit Mary Manners at http://www.marymannersromance.com

Don't forget to leave a comment for your chance to win this book, along with No Other and Daniella, also featured this week. I've changed my drawing days to Fridays, with a one week lag between features and the drawing for them. So the drawing for this week's books will be next Friday. And today I'm drawing for last week's books.

Daniella, JoAnn Carter

2010-09-07T21:57:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary

When Harrison Beckman meets his father’s secretary, Daniella Duncan, she’s shy and self-conscious. Harrison, however, is determined to get to know her better. Before he gets to do that a rival comes along to steal Dani’s heart as quickly and thoroughly as the company’s contracts, which have been disappearing. As the mystery unfolds, Harrison has to fight for the woman he loves, even though this means crossing swords with his father and his determined adversary. Will Harrison be able to find the love that could await them or will it be too late?

Short excerpt:
Harrison took the folder from her extended hand. Her hand seemed so small, and he had the strangest desire to protect her from whatever inner battle she was fighting. “I’m sorry. I know you’ve been with our advertising firm for quite a while now, but until today, I’ve never met you.” He added with a smile, “Forgive me, I’m horrible with names. What’s yours again?”
Her eyes grew wide. With a nervous catch, she said, “Daniella Duncan.”
“I like that name. May I call you Daniella?”
She shrugged. “Everybody calls me Dani.”
“I think I prefer Daniella.” Still studying her face, Harrison added, “Somehow, Dani doesn’t seem to fit you.”
“Oh, Dani fits me all right. It sounds short and fat.” Her hand clamped over her mouth, and her eyes grew even wider. Harrison’s heart nearly broke when she asked, “Did I really say that out loud?”
It had been drilled into his head since he was a boy never to talk to women about two things: their age and their weight. Now, what should he do with this hanging hot potato? Ignore it. “I didn’t hear anything if you didn’t.” He tried to continue with the previous introductions. “Everyone calls my father Mr. Beckman, so I go by Harrison.”
“Okay. I’ll try to remember that.” Daniella seemed to have reached her limit; she looked like a cat being chased by a mouse, desperate for escape. “Um, I really need to get back now, so...”

Reviews:
Marianne Evans says, “Daniella is a tale of hope for every person who has ever doubted themselves - for any reason. "Daniella" affirms the truth that love sees beyond all things - and that God, and the man of her dreams, love her just as she is, and without condition.

There's suspense here as well - corporate intrigue and machinations that keep the pages turning, yet never lead the reader away from a wonderful romance. I love the fact taht the hero, Harrison, who is handsome and successful, is completely attuned to a God Daniella seeks - but not with a fullness of heart and belief. Further, she doubts Harrison would ever be able to see past her size to the heart beneath. But he does!

I strongly recommend this heart felt and heart warming romance from the skilled pen of JoAnn Carter.”
--
Carol Ann Erhardt says, I love books where I can associate with the heroine. Daniella captured me from the very first page. Remember how cruel classmates can be when you are young? Can you remember one time when something stuck in your head and began to undermine your self-confidence? I can. And so could Daniella.

Daniella has top notch secretarial skills and a caring heart. She works hard, loves her job, but is caught in her own insecurities. Cast her in a room full of executives, including the boss's son, Harrison, and she tries to disappear into the decor. Secretly, she has a crush on Harrison, who is smart, handsome, and grounded in his faith. When work circumstances join these two on a major project, Harrison is determined to learn more about his new assistant. She's very capable, smart, and pretty. Why is she so shy?

Enter Maxwell, who flirts openly with Dani, and lavishes her with sweet words. His persistence opens her lonely heart. Harrison is leery of Maxwell, but is his distrust based on jealousy?

Daniella has everything you'd want in a book. Romance, suspense, and a journey of faith. I loved it!!!”

Why JoAnn Wrote Daniella:
While in the middle of writing this story, I heard the song MIRROR MIRROR by Barlow Girl on the radio. As I listened to the lyrics, it hit me how many women like Dani, (the heroine in DANIELLA) struggles with self-image.
As the plot develops, and Dani comes to the realization God loves her the way he made her. I had to be honest and ask myself, "Do I believe that?" It’s easy for me to nod my head while I’m writing this, but it’s another story when I’m standing in one of those dinky changing rooms try to find a bathing suit for the summer!
Accepting myself is sometimes is a daily struggle. In the same way this story has challenged me, as you experience Dani growth reading this book, it’s my prayer that it will draw you closer to God as well. (If you’d like to hear Mirror Mirror, click onto this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZgq8pA-ipY&feature=related )

Looking for discussion questions? Check out: http://www.whiterosepublishing.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=10:daniella-discussion-questions

You can also access a free two-week devotional to go along with the theme of this book by going to my web page: http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site/

Purchase

Author Bio :
... about me
Some people seem to be born with a pen in their hands and have written for as long as they can remember. That’s not the case with me. In fact if my Jr. High teacher’s knew how much I enjoy writing now- well, lets just say I’m sure they would get a kick out of it.
... my family
In 1996 my husband (a Youth Pastor) and I discovered we were going to have our first child. I knew as I stopped working as an LPN and transitioned into motherhood, I’d be home alone many nights. It was then, without ever having tackled anything like it, I wrote my first manuscript with the desire to encourage others as I have been.
We now have four boys ages 9-14 and reside in beautiful Vermont.
... my work
I love to write when I can grab the time. I’ve learned so much and find that everyday I’ve more to learn. It’s my desire to be a blessing to others and that my readers faith would be strengthened by the characters and lessons learned through the stories I write. On the side, I read and write reviews for Christian Ministries, Inc. These reviews are aired on The Light and the Wave radio networks. I also enjoy speaking at schools and our local libraries. To learn more about my writing ministry, please go to http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site

I think this book sounds great! If you'd like the chance to win it, leave JoAnn a comment.

No Other, Shawna K. Williams

2010-09-05T20:36:00.000-07:00

Romance/20th Century Historical/Life Issues

In the aftermath of WWII all Jakob Wilheimer wants is to get over his pain, get on with life, and if at all possible, forgive those who've wronged his family -- including himself. But it's hard to do when there are constant reminders. One of them being his former schoolmate, now teacher, Meri Parker -- Miss Port Delamar Pearl, Mayor's daughter, Belle of the town -- Meri Parker.

After enduring the stigma and isolation associated with the internment camp, the awkwardness of going back to school should've been a cake walk. But Jakob didn't expect to find himself inexplicably drawn to Meri. Or to discover that the pain and loneliness of her life surpassed his own. She needed to be rescued from the wretched people seeking to control her life. And more than anything, he needed to be the one to save her.

Excerpt:
Jakob headed for the living room, holding the chandelier by its chain. "Hey Meri," he called to her over the rain. "Come in here."
Meri walked toward the living room, but paused at its entrance as a gust of wind hit her. "The window is broken," she said.
"I know. The wind is blowing south though and the porch is keeping most of the rain out."
Meri took slow steps toward him, crossing her arms and rubbing them as the chill from the storm hit her. Jakob stood in the center of the room with his hair blowing wildly.
"What are you doing?"
He closed his eyes and tilted his head back slightly. "It feels nice. Kinda like standing in the rain without getting wet."
He laid the chandelier on the floor and marched over to the wall. Meri watched as he used his foot to clear pine needles and dirt from an area of the floor. He stood over the spot, inspecting it, and then unbuttoned his plaid shirt and took it off, revealing the white tee shirt he wore underneath.
Her heart jumped into her throat.
Jakob laid the shirt on the ground, then turned and sat next to it with his back leaning against the wall. "Come on," he said. "I saved ya a seat."
She furrowed her brow. Her teeth clattered with a sudden chill but she did as he asked. "This is crazy," she said, taking a seat on his shirt.
"Nah." He stretched out his legs, leaned his head back and closed his eyes.
"Jakob, what are you doing?"
"Just takin' it all in." He let out a relaxed sigh. "You should give it a try."
Meri folded her arms. Then unfolded them. She hated feeling self-conscious. "I don't know how." He cracked one eye at her. "Be still."
"What?"
"Copy me," he said. "Lean back, close your eyes."
She did as he said. "Now what?" This was nuts.
"Quiet your mind, and just listen and feel."
Meri took a deep breath and tried to relax. It wasn't working. She sneaked a glance at Jakob. His face seemed beautifully serene amidst the swirling bits of debris flying through the room. It was so... him. Somehow, realizing that made her want to give herself over to the experience. She took another deep breath and let it out slowly.
The first thing she noticed was the musty scent had been cleansed from the air. The smell of rain, clean and fresh, took its place. Droplets rhythmically pattered against the roof. And the
sound changed with the wind -- becoming soft, like a whisper -- then building into a crescendo with the howling gale. At its peak, rumbling thunder. It was music.
Her body relaxed fully and her shivers subsided. She surrendered to the moment, allowing the wild breeze and cool mist to touch her, tickle her. Tiny goose-bumps rose all over her skin. With her eyes closed it felt as if she were elsewhere -- suspended and floating. Free.
"It's beautiful," escaped her lips.
"Glad you could join me," Jakob whispered.
She felt the warmth of his hand slip around hers, his touch joining them in the experience. Their own private symphony.

Reviews:
This is a romance novel that won my heart, even though I normally do not read romance. Shawna's mastery of characterization infused the story with such believability, and I fell in love with Jakob and Meri. No sappy scenes, no corny lines--this book is about story. Yes, it's a love story, but it is so much more.

Set in post WWII Texas, Jakob's German family faces discrimination while they try to rebuild their household. His parents have returned from an internment camp, and his brother has returned as a war hero. Jakob must now step down from his patriarchal role and make his own return--to the high school he had left three years earlier in order to care for his younger siblings in his parents' and older brother's absence.

Matters become even more complicated when he steps into his classroom and discovers his old classmate, Meri Parker, sitting behind the teacher's desk. Their worlds couldn't be more different--she'd had all the advantages Jakob had not. Wealth, college, no one to care for but herself. But Jakob saw what no one else could--how trapped Meri was by her so-called advantages. With his own family restored, Jakob's natural instinct to rescue shifts its attention to Meri.

No Other is beautifully written. If you love romance, you will love No Other. And if you don't like romance...no matter. You'll still love it. -- Kat Heckenbach, Kat's Musings.

There is "no other" story like it. Seriously.

This debut novel by author Shawna Williams took my breath away. It sounds cliche, but I don't know how else to describe the emotions that moved through me as I read this book. My heart was engaged and fully invested in the outcome.

I read most of this book in one sitting. It's a perfect historical romance in that the tension kept building and it made me want them to work things out and find a way to be together. I fell in love with the characters and empathized with their situations. I also felt firmly grounded in the time period.

The author's use of dialog was masterful. I could hear the characters speaking and their inner thoughts and dialog were consistent with that era. My favorite scene was toward the end when Jakob tries to do the right thing. The emotion was intense and so realistic I nearly cried myself. That's great writing because I felt something.

I loved how true to life this story seemed and it was edgy enough to make me want to cheer Shawna on. This story felt real to me because the characters were complex and three dimentional. There were a few shifts in plot that were delightful as well. I love it when the author does something you aren't expecting. Nice job! I can't wait for the next book. This is making my "favorites" list for fiction for this year - 2010. -- Michelle Sutton, Edgy Inspirational Author.

Why Shawna Wrote No Other:
I wrote No Other because I wanted to tell an inspirational story about getting up after you fall. About how Christians don't just struggle, sometimes we blow it, but God doesn't abandon us. Even when our efforts to right things fail, He's still in control. Him, and No Other.
Amazon - Purchase
Desert Breeze Storefront - Purchase

Author Bio:
Shawna K. Williams is an Inspirational Romance writer who loves telling a story through flawed characters – the only kind she can relate to. She also likes a good dose of nostalgia, which is why many of her stories are set in rural America during the first half of the 20th Century. However, being a fan of other genres, including Science Fiction and Suspense, she has a few surprises planned for future works.
When not writing, Shawna spends time with her husband and three children enjoying life on their ranch. She's also an avid reader, book reviewer, blogger and jewelry designer.

http://shawnakwilliams.com/

http://shawnawilliams-oldsmobile.blogspot.com/

Happy Labor Day and Happy Reading!

No Other is the Acfw Bookclub's choice for the Spetember discussion. Leave a comment for a chance to win. You'll have plenty of time to read it.

In His Sight, Pamela S. Thibodeaux

2010-09-02T23:03:00.000-07:00

Romance/Suspense/Contemporary/Short Story (Novella)
Grade school teacher Carson Alexander has a gift—a gift that has driven a wedge between him and his family. Worse, it’s put him at odds with God. Feeling alone and misunderstood, Carson views God’s gift of prophecy as the worst kind of curse…that is until he meets Lorelei Conner, landscape artist extraordinaire, and perhaps the one person who may need Carson and his gift more than anyone ever has.

Lorelei Connor is a mother on the run. Her abusive ex-husband has followed her all over the country trying to steal their daughter. Distrusting of men and needing to keep on the move, she’s surprised by her desire to remain close to Carson Alexander. Through her fear and hesitation, she must learn to rely on God to guide her—not an easy task when He’s prompting her to trust a man.

Can their relationship withstand the tragedy lurking on the horizon?

Excerpt:
Lorelei Connor scoured the atlas on the coffee table. Her eyes searched far from the small town where she resided. The tick of the clock on the mantle above the fireplace reminded her time had run out.

Fear crawled up her spine.

They had lived in one place for too long. It was time to move on.

She closed her eyes, placed the red marker over the state of Tennessee and let the Lord lead her hand. She gazed down at the circle just southeast of Nashville. Stars Crossing.

The name leapt out. She did a quick search on the Internet for specifics and clicked on the “Real Estate” link to verify available housing. A note on the page caught her eye.

Handyman needed for maintenance and minor repairs of properties owned by agency. Emailed resumes accepted. Her soul danced in excitement.

She picked up the laptop and rushed into her daughter’s room. “Laurel, I know where we’re going!”

Her child groaned and buried her face in a pillow. “Not again, Mom. Where to now?”

Lorelei climbed on the bed and elbowed her daughter in a gentle gesture. “Look at this little town in Tennessee I’ve discovered.”

Laurel sat up and glanced at the screen. “Stars Crossing? Who ever heard of Stars Crossing, Tennessee? Stupid name if you ask me. You promised we’d stay here for a while.”

Despondency colored her tone and made Lorelei’s heart ache. “This time for good, no more moving, you’ll see.”

“Yeah, like I haven’t heard that before.”

Lorelei closed the laptop and eased off the bed with a sigh. Weariness dragged at her. She understood how Laurel felt. She, too, despaired of the constant moving. Maybe this time she’d find the peace she craved and a quiet, unhurried lifestyle where she felt safe.

“Pack up your things.”

She returned to the living room and emailed her resume to the real estate agency. Two days later she and Laurel hit the road, everything they owned in the backseat and trunk of her car.

Five days after leaving Wyoming, they arrived in Stars Crossing, Tennessee. Within hours Lorelei had a place to live, a job, and Laurel was registered for school.

Reviews:
5 Tea Cups! This story caught my attention from the beginning and it made me wonder if I had given all to God as he gave all to me. Thank you, Pamela for a story that I would readily recommend to anyone who needs that extra encouragement! ~ Reviewed by Wendy for Happily Ever After Reviews http://hea-reviews.blogspot.com/2010/07/review-in-his-sight-by-pamela-s.html

5 Hearts! This latest book by Pamela S. Thibodeaux is a fabulous read. It is a fast-paced, suspenseful storyline. This book grabbed my attention at page one and never let go. It was a poignant saga which consisted of lies, abuse, fear and finally, trust. The incredible way these lives intertwined will amaze readers. This author wrote such a captivating book that felt as if I was on the inside of this poignant situation. The characters were so endearing. It was impossible to put the book down. This was truly an adventure well worth reading. I hated to see the book end. The spirituality shown in this book was truly amazing. It was not overly preachy or a book that would offend non-believers. I highly recommend that you read this book. You will not regret it. ~ Reviewed by Brenda Talley for The Romance Studio http://theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/inhissightthibodeaux.htm

Why Pamela Wrote In His Sight:
This story got its beginning as an entry for White Rose Publishing’s “Hearts Crossing” contest. Unable to complete by deadline due to my husband’s failing health, I put the story aside. After his death, finishing the story was a way to ease back into the writing world.
Purchase

Author Bio:

Award-winning author, Pamela S. Thibodeaux is the Co-Founder and a lifetime member of Bayou Writers Group in Lake Charles, Louisiana and a member of White Roses in Bloom Authors. Multi-published in romantic fiction as well as creative non-fiction, her writing has been tagged as, “Inspirational with an Edge!” and reviewed as “steamier and grittier than the typical Christian novel without decreasing the message.”

Website address: http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com
Blog: http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com

WRIB Blog: http://whiterosesinbloom.blogspot.com
Bayou Writers Group: http://bayouwritersgroup.org

Don't forget to leave your comments for the drawing on Wednesday!

Have a great weekend all, and Happy Reading!

Yesterday's Promise, Delia Lath

2010-08-31T22:33:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary
A whirlwind romance amidst the natural splendor of Yosemite National Park. A spur-of-the-moment wedding. A young bride who awakens the morning after to find her new husband gone with the mountain wind.

Songbird Hannah Johns supports the child born of that ill-fated union by singing in a dinner lounge. Her dream of someday owning the elite establishment and turning it into a venue more suited to her Christian values is shattered when an unexpected transaction places it in the hands of Brock Ellis, the handsome biker who abandoned her in their honeymoon suite.

Ensuing sparks fly high, revealing buried secrets and forgotten pasts. Seeking to find peace with her painful past, Hannah returns to Yosemite, only to have Brock show up hard on her heels. Back where it all began, she finds herself in danger of losing her heart yet again to the man who shattered it the first time around.

A whirlwind romance amidst the natural splendor of Yosemite National Park. A spur-of-the-moment wedding. A young bride who awakens the morning after to find her new husband gone with the mountain wind.

Songbird Hannah Johns supports the child born of that ill-fated union by singing in a dinner lounge. Her dream of someday owning the elite establishment and turning it into a venue more suited to her Christian values is shattered when an unexpected transaction places it in the hands of Brock Ellis, the handsome biker who abandoned her in their honeymoon suite.

Ensuing sparks fly high, revealing buried secrets and forgotten pasts. Seeking to find peace with her painful past, Hannah returns to Yosemite, only to have Brock show up hard on her heels. Back where it all began, she finds herself in danger of losing her heart yet again to the man who shattered it the first time around.

Excerpt:
“Is this all the thanks I get for saving you from the lowlife?” he demanded. “Accusations of, uh… ‘seizurely’ behavior?”
Hannah breathed an exaggerated sigh and shook her head. “‘Fraid so.”
“What’s a guy gotta do to get a little respect?” He slid off the boulder with a grin. “Come on, I’ll help you down, you little ingrate.”
Laughing, she placed her hands on his shoulders. He gripped her waist and swung her off the boulder, setting her on her feet in front of him.
Whoa! Way too close for comfort. Breathless, she found herself tangled helplessly in his warm gaze. Then he stepped back and she could breathe again.
“You hungry yet?”
They headed back toward the cabin and Hannah nodded. “Starving.”
“Let’s go get some lunch. What’re our choices?”
“We have several, actually. I’ve got brochures at the cabin.”
“OK.” He grinned, suddenly looking like a little boy planning a raid on the cookie jar. “I’ve had you all morning. Give me a few more hours, and the lowlife will have missed out on the whole day.”
“Brock!” Hannah laughed but swung around to face him, walking backward. “This is Davey’s father you’re talking about.”
He stopped dead still, and his gray eyes took on an icy glitter. Hannah gasped, shocked and a bit frightened as strong fingers gripped both of her arms in a steel grasp.
“Any man can father a child.” His lips whitened, and she shrank from his sudden hot anger. “That’s the easy part. Davey’s a great kid, but you’ve done that all by yourself—no thanks to the scum who fathered him.” His eyes were icy steel. “I’m giving you fair warning, Hannah. I will do everything in my power to keep you away from him. He took something fine and…” His voice broke, and he cleared his throat.
Awed, Hannah watched the ice in his gray eyes melt, softening his entire visage. He ran a finger down her cheek in a feather touch that sent an electric current through her entire body. “Something pure, and treated it like a cheap toy he could play with and toss away.”
Hannah was unable to think of a single appropriate response. It didn’t matter, though, because Brock hadn’t finished. His lips twisted in disdain, and he lifted his chin determinedly.
“He won’t get you back that easily!”

Reviews:Long and Short Reviews
"BEST BOOK" rating!
This is a book I’ll be recommending to everyone I know.
…Yesterday’s Promise is a reunion love story, my favorite kind. Lovely readable style that captures you within the first few pages. I must comment on the flashback sequences. Most authors love to include these kinds of scenes and more often than not, they are unnecessary and slow down the flow of the story. The flashback scenes in this book were done with such poignancy and beauty that I couldn’t imagine the story without them. Very well done.

This is the kind of book to curl up with and continue reading all afternoon. I absolutely loved it. The characters, the writing—all beautifully done. Such an emotional tale tenderly told. Tell your friends, tell your family. They will want to read this book.
Reviewed by Orange Blossom
Read the rest of Orange Blossom's review

The Romance Studio
5-Heart Rating!
Ms. Delia Latham has, once again, fascinated me with her writing ability. I read this book previously—this updated version is fabulous. I love the way Latham takes her characters and develops them into multi-faceted people that capture the readers’ attention. The manner in which she presents her main couple is amazing. Her imagination and her storytelling skills are truly touched by God.
The plot of this book was so unbelievable that it actually could have happened. I found it impossible to put the book down. Her secondary cast of characters were no less expanded. This book, once again, has proven that Latham has the ability to write a top-seller and create interest without compromising her principles. She was able to tell this story without explicit sexual content but still maintain reality.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. If you’ve never read Delia Latham’s work, this would be an excellent place to start. You will definitely not be disappointed.
Reviewed by Brenda Talley

Why Delia Wrote this Book:
I was in the middle of writing Goldeneyes, a historical romance that eventually released through Vintage Reflections Publishing. I had come up against a major writer’s block, and I simply could not find a way around, over, through, or under it. I had prayed, cried, begged, and pleaded, and still could not make the story happen.

One day, as I surfed the internet in search of inspiration I had failed to find anywhere else, I came across an advertisement for National Novel Writing Month (Nanowrimo), an annual writing event that challenges participants to produce a 50,000-word novel in during the thirty days of November, or that many words toward a longer novel. I was intrigued. Maybe this was what I needed to finish my book! Then I discovered writers are discouraged from bringing in a previously started work. Instead, the Nanowrimo powers-that-be preferred participants work on a fresh storyline.

Well. So much for Goldeneyes. Still, maybe a break was in order.

I came across that advertisement just days prior to the November 1 launch of that year’s Nanowrimo event. So on November 1, 2005, I laid aside my work-in-progress, pulled up a blank document in my Word program, and started writing—just me, that scary, blank white screen, and God. I had no plan, no outline, no idea whatsoever what I would write about, only that the story would be set in the Yosemite area.

God came to the rescue, and thirty days later, I had the barebones skeleton of what would become Yesterday’s Promise. (It originally printed under the title Almost Like a Song. That’s a long story I won’t go into. I reclaimed my rights to the work two years later, and eventually sent it to White Rose Publishing, where it found a home under the new title and with a beautiful new cover.)

When I returned to Goldeneyes, God provided the release and inspiration, and the rest of the book flowed easily. Goldeneyes released in March 2008.

I’ve always felt that God had a message of faith and trust for somebody, somewhere, and he used Yesterday’s Promise to deliver it. It amazes me that my Father cares that much about each and every one of His children!
Purchase link:
White Rose Publishing
Amazon

Author Bio:
DELIA LATHAM is a Christian wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. While she considers each of these roles important ones, she treasures most of all her role as a child of the King and an heir to the throne.

A former newspaper staff writer, Delia promised herself a novel for years, while raising her four children, working at various jobs and writing the occasional article, poem, or song. She fulfilled that promise when Vintage Reflections Publishing released Goldeneyes in 2008. A Christian historical romance with a touch of the divine, Goldeneyes is set in the farm country of the author’s childhood, and therefore close to her heart. In 2010, White Rose Publishing released Yesterday’s Promise in electronic format. A children’s book, Adam’s Wings, will be available in December 2010.

Delia grew up in Weedpatch, a tiny agricultural community near Bakersfield, in California’s San Joaquin Valley. She and her husband Johnny recently transplanted from that area to Okmulgee County, Oklahoma.

Find out more at:
Website
Blog
Newsletter

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Prodigal, Robin Bayne

2010-08-26T23:21:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary/Short Story (Novella)

Daniel Gardner is making a grand entrance at his brother’s wedding. The problem is, no one has seen him in years. Unsure of his welcome, this prodigal son needs the years and the hearts of his family to miraculously melt for a fresh start…but he may not be the only one needing to make amends.

Lane Taylor doesn’t realize how much she still loves Daniel until she’s standing face-to-face with him after so many years apart. Once upon a time, they’d dreamed of a life together. Now, when it seems they might get a second chance, she has to decide whether to divulge the secret she’s sure will shatter their happily-ever-after.

Excerpt:
This was it. Showtime.

Drawing in one long, deep breath, Daniel stepped over the threshold of the Martin’s Mansion catering hall, his heart pounding to the beat of the keys he jingled in his pocket. His mouth felt full of cotton balls. The place hadn’t changed since he’d last been here—when was it, his high school prom or something? In fact nothing in town seemed to have changed much in nearly ten years. Men and women in fancy clothes entered around him, ignoring him and checking their coats before heading into the reception hall. As they passed, strains of music flowed into the lobby. He tried to move his feet forward but felt glued to the spot on the marble tile floor. A waiter walked by and stared at him openly.

Cold air rushed past his ears as the glass doors behind him swooshed open again and again. It amazed him that the blood pounding behind his eyes wasn’t sufficient to warm him.

Someone lightly touched his shoulder, and he turned to see that his escort had arrived.

“Daniel, are you ready?” Liza smiled, probably meaning it to look encouraging.
She wasn’t good at encouraging.

He nodded but answered, “No.”

“Yes, you are. You’ve been anticipating this moment for how many years?” Liza patted his arm. “Look at it this way: your reception here will be much warmer than mine will be.”

Daniel glanced down at her. “That’s probably true. Are you sure you want to go in here?
I can make the grand appearance on my own.”

Her hand still on his arm, she nodded slowly. “It’s something I need to do. Let’s pray first.” She bowed her head, her long neck stretching from the white sweater she wore.

He wondered briefly if she’d worn white to look pure and innocent.

“We’re like lambs going in for slaughter.” An uneasy laugh belied her confidence, and she tugged at him. “Let’s go.”

With head held high, Daniel situated Liza at an open table, and then strode toward the head table. His heart pounded above the noise of the band’s quick beat. The wedding guests chattered as they do, and Daniel strode right into the middle of the hubbub, glasses clinking around him.

And then all was quiet.

The band stopped.

The chatter fizzled, and a good fifty well-groomed heads turned in unison to stare holes into Daniel’s head.

Or so it felt.
He said nothing, but moved to stand directly in front of his parents. They had aged, he realized with pangs of regret. It was as if the ventilation system was pouring tension into the room. Long moments passed, and Daniel stepped back, preparing to leave.

And then Mom smiled.

She rushed for Daniel, wrapping him in warm arms and soggy tears of welcome. His father followed, letting loose a swarm of various relatives who joined them in a huddle to greet the long lost son. The breath he hadn’t known he held eased out and his gut unclenched in relief. He knew the questions would come eventually, but for now, knowing his family still wanted him was all he needed.

“Dance with me?” His mother smiled and held out one hand. They moved to the dance floor and began to sway to the classic, “Someone to Watch Over Me,” a song Daniel thought very appropriate.

Mom moved closer so he could hear her. “Are you staying?”

He nodded, and her eyes lit up, and they finished the dance in a comfortable silence. As they turned he spied Liza, grinning at him with that “I told you so” look, and she winked.

Reviews:
Ms. Robin Bayne has written an incredibly poignant book about the power of love and how God can change hearts and lives. The acceptance and devotion certainly mimicked the story of the prodigal son in the Bible. The other son (Tim) even reacted much as the Bible’s story. I applaud her development of the characters, both the strong main ones as well as those supporting. Each was believable and likeable. This sweet storyline was a fast-paced, quick read. I could not put it down. However, there is a big surprise in the book. It definitely is not a cookie-cutter type manuscript. It got better with each passing page. I highly recommend that anyone read this book. It has a great plot, impressive characters, and an emotional ending. Kudos, Ms. Bayne! -- The Romance Studio.—5 Stars

In a word, WONDERFUL. Okay, two words MORE. I didn't want this story to end. I wasn't prepared for the zinger Ms. Bayne tossed into this short story. Without a doubt a five star read. If you're looking for laughter, love, drama and as an added bonus some really great sounding food don't pass on this one. -- Donna L. Bolk Author/Reviewer for Romance Magazine.

Why Robin Wrote this Book:
I developed the story idea for “Prodigal” as a sequel to my earlier release, “The Good Samaritan.” I love to take characters from my stories and make them into better, more heroic personalities in sequels. While Daniel wasn’t quite a villain in “Good Sam,” he definitely needed to redeem himself. And he has help in “Prodigal.” Thanks for reading my thoughts here and thank you for this opportunity.
Purchase

Author Bio:
Robin Bayne is the award-winning author of six novels and four novellas, along with a variety of short stories. She has contributed to collections including God’s Way for Teens, God’s Way for Fathers and Cup of Comfort Devotionals; and published articles in Writer’s Journal and Christian Communicator. She has given workshops at regional and online romance writing conferences and the Writer’s Digest World’s Largest Writing Workshop. She lives in Maryland with her husband of twenty years. Robin recently compiled a book of devotionals for writers titled “Words to Write By.” Visit her at www.robinbayne.com.

Friday already! Well, you guys know what to do; leave a comment and Wednesday of next week I'll be contacting one of you with the three books featured this week.

Happy Reading!

Reservations for Two, Kinzie Monroe

2010-08-24T20:59:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary
Widower’s Maggie O’Brien and Carson Jennings are both on a journey to rediscover who they are. Maggie, an adventurous former pastor’s wife of thirty-nine years, hopes to find closure in the place she and her husband spent their honeymoon. Carson, a retired judge, is living his lifelong dream of traveling across the U.S. in his RV. When their paths cross in the tranquil setting of Mason Springs, New Mexico, love is the last thing that either of them expects to find.

Excerpt:
Maggie waited until she saw the man go inside the café before she left the gift shop. She’d noticed him watching her after catching a glimpse of him in one of the windows. She knew she was probably being overly cautious, that he was more than likely just as curious about her as everyone else had been, but Joe had always taught her to be careful of her surrounding. A pastor practically his whole life, he knew better than most of the evil lurking in the world.

Maggie climbed the dozen steps and rested long enough on a park bench to slip on the roller blades. She’d gone no more than a few feet when a group of teenagers rolled past her, forcing her to slow her pace. Suddenly a large dog darted in front of her, followed by a young woman racing to catch up. Maggie struggled to regain her balance, but to no avail. Within seconds she found herself on her backside, staring up at a familiar face. She quickly recognized the silver haired man as the same one who had been watching her only a short while ago.

With an amused expression plastered across his face, he knelt down in front of her. “You look as if you could use a hand.”

She was about to accept his offer, but then reconsidered. “Thank you, but I think I’ve had all the exercise I can stand for one day,” she said and reached for the laces of her skates.

“Then please, allow me.”

Maggie watched as he removed her skates. He was even more handsome up close, and despite the air of authority his voice resonated, the light blue polo shirt he wore over white shorts reeked tourist. “I know I must look ridiculous.”

He tossed her a gorgeous smile. “On the contrary. And I like your socks.”

She laughed, suspecting he was only being kind. “They were a gift from one of my granddaughters.”

He laid the roller blades to one side and helped her to her feet. At well over six feet, he towered over her five-foot four-inch frame. “How many grandchildren do you have?”

She met his expressive blue eyes and answered cautiously, “Seven.” She couldn’t help but wonder if he’d been following her. The news was filled with horror stories about lonely old women who were taken advantage of by smooth talking gentlemen after their life savings. She almost chuckled at the thought. If he was one of them he was going to be aw-fully disappointed.

“I only have one,” he offered freely of himself. “I’ve been hoping for more, but since I only have one daughter who seems more interested in her career than a family, it appears I’ll have to be happy with just the one.”

“One is better than none.” She bent to pick up the roller blades, but he beat her to them. “Thank you for your help.” She waited for him to hand the skates over, but he just stood there looking at her with a goofy grin on his face. “I should be going.”

“Of course,” he said and handed her the roller blades. “Uh, listen…if you aren’t doing anything for lunch I’d be honored if you were to join me, my treat of course.”

She smiled at his offer. Though tempted, she decided to air on the side of caution. “Thank you, but I’m afraid I can’t.” After all she’d just met the man. Despite his charming demeanor she didn’t know him from Adam. He could be a serial killer for all she knew.

“I’m Carson Jennings by the way,” he said as if reading her mind.

She shook the hand he offered. “Maggie O’Brien. Thanks again for your help, but I really should be going.”

“It was a pleasure, Maggie O’Brien. Perhaps we’ll meet again under more pleasant circumstances.”

Reviews:
Readers Favorite gave Reservations for Two Five Stars!
This book held my attention from beginning to end. It left me wanting to read more of Maggie and Carson’s adventures. Perhaps the author will take the hint and make this into a series.

Miss Lynn's Books & More gave it 5 Stars!
This was such a soul searching book and Ms. Monroe wrote it with just the right amount of drama, and romance to keep the readers attention. The characters stand out and blend well together. As Carson and Maggie share their faith and depend on God for their strength to see through the storms, we also see family life, how little things can either bind a family closer together or drive them apart. This is a book that will keep your attention from the beginning to the end and leave you wanting more adventures in the life of Carson and Maggie. Recommended for all readers of the Sweet Romance Genre.

Why Kinzie wrote this Book:
This book is very special to me, as it was inspired by my former Wednesday Night Bible Study Class. This lovely group of ladies and gentleman (I'm not forgetting you Ray) taught me the true meaning of a close walk with God. They accomplished that, not so much in words but in their actions and the way they lived their lives. This book is dedicated to them as my way of thanking them for their inspiration and guidance in my life. They have all been a true blessing to me!
Purchase

Author Bio:
Kinzie Monroe is the alter ego of suspense author Anne Patrick. Kinzie, you might say, is the lighter side of Anne. Anne’s books may be darker in subject matter, but they all carry messages of hope and faith. Together they’ve penned over a dozen novels that are either published or under contract, and their works continue to garner four and five star reviews from both readers and reviewers. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Anne/Kinzie now makes her home in Kansas.
To learn more about Anne/Kinzie, please visit her website: http://annepatrick.weebly.com/index.html or blogs: http://www.kinziemonroe.blogspot.com, http://www.suspensebyanne.blogspot.com. They love to hear from their readers!

Hey guys, don't forget to leave a comment for a chance to win this book and the others featured this week.
Happy Reading!

The Remains, Vincent Zandri

2010-08-22T22:36:00.000-07:00

Suspense/Contemporary

"Sometimes the past comes doesn't come back to haunt you. It comes back to kill you!"

Excerpt:
October 2, 2008
Albany, New York

In the deep night, a woman sits down at her writing table. Fingering a newly sharpened pencil, she focuses her eyes upon the blank paper, brings the black pencil tip to it.
She begins to write.

Dear Mol,
I’ve been dreaming about you again. I don’t think a night has gone by in the past few weeks when I haven’t seen your face. Our face, I should say. The face is always in my head; implanted in my memories. The dream is nothing new. It’s thirty years ago again. It’s October. I’m walking close behind you through the tall grass towards the woods. Your hair is loose and long. You’re wearing cut-offs, white Keds with the laces untied and a red T-shirt that says ‘Paul McCartney and Wings’ on the front. You’re walking ahead of me while I try to keep up; but afraid to keep up. Soon we come to the tree line, and while my heart beats in my throat, we walk into the trees. But then comes a noise—a snapping of twigs and branches. The gaunt face of a man appears. A man who lives in a house in the woods.

Then, just like that, the dream shifts and I see you kneeling beside me inside the dark empty basement. I hear the sound of your sniffles, smell the wormy raw earth, feel the cold touch of a man’s hand. You turn and you look at me with your solid steel eyes. And then I wake up.
We survived the house in the woods together, Mol, and we never told a soul. We just couldn’t risk it. Whelan would have come back for us. He would have found us. He would have found mom and dad. Even today, I know he surely would have. He would have killed them, Mol. He would have killed us. In just five days, thirty years will have passed. Three entire decades and I’m still convinced we did the right thing by keeping that afternoon in the woods our secret.
When I see you in my dreams it’s like looking in a mirror. The blue eyes, the thick lips, the dirty blond hair forever just touching the shoulders. My hair is finally showing signs of grey, Mol.
I wonder, do you get gray hair in heaven? I wonder if Whelan’s hair burned off in hell? I wonder if he suffers?
All my love,
Your twin sister,
Rebecca Rose Underhill

Exhaling, the woman folds the letter neatly into thirds, slips it into a blank stationary envelope, her initials RRU embossed on the label. Running the bitter sticky glue interior over her tongue, she seals the envelope, sets it back down onto the writing table. Once more she picks up the pencil, brings the now dulled tip to the envelope’s face. Addressing it she writes only a name:
Molly Rose Underhill

The job done, the woman smiles sadly. Opening the table drawer, she sets the letter inside, on top of a stack of nine identical letters-never-sent. One for every year her sister has been gone.
Closing the drawer she hears her cell phone begin to vibrate, then softly chime. Picking it up off the desktop, she opens the phone, sees that a new text has been forwarded to her electronic mailbox. Fingering the in-box, she retrieves the message.
Rebecca is all it says.

Punching the command that reveals the name and number of the sender she finds “Caller Unknown.” The sender’s number has been blocked. Closing the phone back up, she sets it down on the desk. That’s when the wind picks up, blows and whistles through the open window.
“Mol,” she says, staring out into the darkness. “Mol, is that you?”

Reviews:
As young girls, Rebecca and her sister Molly lived through a nightmare abduction, held captive by a madman for three agonizing hours. They only barely escaped. For thirty years they kept this to themselves, a secret bond between sisters, until Molly died of cancer. Now, Rebecca carries the burden by herself.

But the nightmare isn’t over. When she begins getting threatening texts and messages, Rebecca learns that the madman who tormented her and her sister is free, and looking to clear up unfinished business.

The Remains is another fast-paced thriller from Zandri, but remarkable in that it’s told mostly from a female perspective. I’ve gotten accustomed to the sensitive tough guys that usually populate Zandri’s books, so it was a pleasant surprise to see him work so convincingly around a woman protagonist. Rebecca is a great character, fully formed and believable, and as the tension mounts and the story hurtles head-long toward a stunning climax, you’re with her one-hundred percent.

The villain in The Remains is chilling and Zandri ratchets up the suspense like the old pro he is. I’d like to see him experiment even more with these remarkable new points of view. -- Heath Lowrance

I don’t have an ereader so I had to borrow one from a friend of one of my daughters to read this. I had never held one before, let alone used one before this. I liked it. That’s for another post though. The main focus of the post is to impart my enjoyment of Vincent Zandri’s The Remains. If you follow Mr. Zandri at all you know he is not an overnight sensation as some have painted him with the success of this novel. He has The Remains at the top of the Kindle charts and I am sure it is going to enjoy a nice long stay there.

We, my wife and I, have a set of identical twin girls, so this really grabbed my interest. The question in my mind was Zandri going to be able to crawl into the minds of these girls and be in touch with their “twinness”. I have witnessed this phenomenon many times throughout the lives of my girls and it is a difficult thing to quantify let alone describe. Unless you are a twin how can someone describe that connection, those feelings, the looks they give each other, the silent communication? The Remains delivered on all counts and I was very pleased to have spent the time to have read this. The novel is hard to pigeon hole as to what one may call it, so I am going simply with kick%^&, and leave it at that. Making this bad boy a fright flick would be easy, fun and good.

Do I think the novel is injured by coming out in e-version first before paper? No, not at all. My guess is that the publisher saw what they had and didn’t want to sit on it any longer than they needed to. This novel contains great characters and depth, a brilliant storyline, and a hook that is original and gripping. Don’t wait for paper to read this novel. Go outside yourself if you have to and read it on the computer, your cellphone or borrow an ereader like I did. This is a taunt read that has no comfort zone. This novel currently resides in the Amazon “Hot New Release” Top Ten and has a Hollywood scout shopping it around. Keep your fingers crossed. -- Giovanni Gelati

Why Vincent Wrote this Book:
Having just gone through my second divorce I had a lot of time on my hands. I was also pretty heartbroken and down. So I proceeded to write what would be my fifth novel.
I wanted it to be a thriller, but since I was having a lot of trouble at that time in terms of questioning my ability to love someone yet maintain a lasting relationship, not to mention
my overall faith in God, I wanted it to reflect my emotional state.

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Author Bio:
Vincent Zandri is an award-winning and bestselling novelist, essayist and freelance photojournalist. His most recent hard-boiled thrillers, Moonlight Falls and The Remains, are Amazon bestsellers. The Remains has held strong as an Amazon "Hot New Release" in Hard-Boiled fiction for many weeks. It's also a bestseller in Romantic-Suspense. His novel As Catch Can (Delacorte) was touted in two pre-publication articles by Publishers Weekly and was called "Brilliant" upon its publication by The New York Post. The Boston Herald attributed it as "The most arresting first crime novel to break into print this season." Other novels include Godchild (Bantam/Dell) and Permanence (NPI). Translated into several languages including Japanese, Russian, French and the Dutch, Zandri's novels have also been sought out by numerous major movie producers, including Heyday Productions and DreamWorks. Presently he is the author of the blogs, Dangerous Dispatches and Embedded in Africa for Russia Today TV (RT). He also writes for other global publications, including Culture 11, Globalia and Globalspec. Zandri's nonfiction has appeared in New York Newsday, Hudson Valley Magazine, Game and Fish Magazine and others, while his essays and short fiction have been featured in many journals including Fugue, Maryland Review and Orange Coast Magazine. He holds an M.F.A. in Writing from Vermont College and is a 2010 International Thriller Writer's Awards panel judge. Zandri currently divides his time between New York and Europe. Having recently signed with traditional based indy publisher, StoneHouse Ink and StoneGate Ink, Zandri will be publishing three more novels over the course of two years: As Catch Can (republication), The Concrete Pearl (a new hard-boiled series), and Godchild (republication). He is at work on a new novel about the upstate New York Porco axe murder and attempted murder.

http://www.vincentzandri.com/

This book is causing quite a stir, and selling really well! If you want a chance to win it, then leave a comment.

Happy Reading! Or in this case, you might be reading from underneath your bed.

A Quiet Place, Michelle Levigne

2010-08-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

Romance/Contemporary/Series

Widowed and pregnant, Jeannette was run out of town by her vicious in-laws -- and was happy to return home to Tabor Heights. Her friends and church family welcomed her home, and she settled in to a quiet life of working at her church and raising her son. She didn't let a few niggling dreams of "what if?" bother her, even though she sometimes did wonder if Nathan meant it, when he asked her to marry him instead of her beloved Brody.

Then five years later, her in-laws came to town, using every means legal and otherwise to take her son away from her. Nathan was there for her, just like he had always been since their orphanage days. With her life in turmoil, Jeannette wondered if it was really time to wish for much, much more.

Excerpt:
May came far too quickly for Nathan's peace of mind. He had to admit that Brody would take good care of Jeannette. He had their house lined up for them to move into right after their honeymoon -- a cottage his mother owned and rented out. Brody had a job waiting for him when he got home, at a car dealership where he had worked during high school. He even had a scholarship for online classes to get a head start on seminary requirements. There wasn't a single thing Brody and Jeannette didn't have arranged and under control for their quiet wedding and their new life in Glenwood -- up until the moment the Evans family rolled into Tabor Heights, four days before the wedding. Somehow, Nathan didn't think it was enough preparation just knowing Brody's mother would try to take over their wedding, and not only change all their arrangements, but be the center of attention.

He wasn't there when Jeannette and Brody met his family at their hotel and took them out to dinner and then to the church to look over everything. Nathan's National Guard unit had been called up for duty again, and he was busy preparing to ship out. Part of him hoped that arrangements would change at the last minute, and he wouldn't be there to walk Jeannette down the aisle. He knew he was a coward, and while he was ashamed, it wasn't enough to quash the growing regrets and the recurring daydream of telling Jeannette he loved her more than a big brother should, and she should stay in Tabor Heights and marry him instead of Brody.

When Jeannette showed up at his apartment door at nearly eleven that night, Nathan stared for a good five seconds. Then he saw the pallor of tension in her face, the lines around her flattened mouth, the dark smears under her eyes. And the fury in those eyes.

"I'm not good enough -- do you know why?" Jeannette didn't wait for Nathan to move aside, but stomped into his apartment.

"She's wrong. Whatever her ideas are, she's wrong," he said, and shut the door, turning to watch her pace a few times in his napkin-sized living room.

"Darn right." Jeannette clenched her fists and stopped short, turning to face him. "I'm tainted. Damaged goods."

"No you're not," he growled. Jeannette had been the leader the first year their church youth group started the 'True Love Waits' campaign. She had vowed she would stay pure, physically and emotionally, until her marriage.

"Oh, not like that. Although I'm sure she'll make that accusation tomorrow, once she realizes Brody isn't going to drop me like a hot potato. You know why I'm not good enough? Because I'm an orphan, and nobody adopted me. Since I grew up in the orphanage, it just proves I'm worthless trash. Nobody wanted me enough to adopt me, and I wasn't even good enough for foster care."

"She told you that?" Nathan thought for two seconds about the weapons drill he had gone through that afternoon with his Guard unit. He could have brought some of his gear home with him, including a pistol. Not that he would use the weapon, but he would have liked to frighten some silence, if not courtesy, into Mrs. Evans.

"Not to my face, but I heard her telling her adoring daughters-in-law. And she made enough snide remarks and innuendos during dinner, even if I hadn't overheard her, I could have picked up what she meant." Jeannette dropped down onto his couch and hid her face in her hands. "Poor Brody."

"Poor Brody?" Nathan went to one knee in front of her and rested both hands on her shoulders. "What are you worried about him for? You're the one the Wicked Witch is attacking."

"But Brody's the one who's getting a lecture right now." She lowered her hands and the tears that glimmered in her eyes cut Nathan's heart to shreds.

"If you decide not to marry him --"

"And let that old hag win? I'm ready to fight for the man I love."

"That's what I was afraid of. Honestly, Jen, if I didn't know how much Brody loves you, I'd tell you to dump him, right now."

"With that dress Miss Emily made for me, and the cake and punch and the fancy napkins all paid for? Hardly." She rubbed the tears from her eyes.

"Don't waste them -- walk down the aisle with me, instead." He managed a smile -- at least, he thought he did -- his entire body felt a little numb the moment he realized what had slipped out between his lips.

"Oh, Nathan..." she whispered. "We'd be good, wouldn't we? We'd have a good life together. For so long, it's been you and me against the world... but I love Brody." The joy that lit her face, despite the misery of moments ago, slashed at Nathan's heart. Jeannette shook her head. "After falling in love with him, as much as I love you, it wouldn't be enough for me anymore. Does that make sense? You don't love me like Brody does."

I love you more, he wanted to shout. I've loved you since you were seven years old and Hank the Hog pushed you down and you wouldn't let him make you cry.
Nathan shrugged and managed to hold the crooked smile on his face. He released her shoulders and stood up, because he knew he couldn't keep looking her in the eyes without her reading the ache and hunger -- and jealousy -- burning in his eyes.

Reviews:
5 Hearts
I am so involved in the Tabor Heights, Ohio Novels that it is hard to express my interest. However, each story, each instalment of this marvellously-written series is better than the previous ones. I cannot wait to get each upcoming book. This one was presented in a uniquely different manner, showing back-flashes and moving from one storyline to the other complimentary one.

Ms. Levigne has, once again, blessed our hearts with a beautifully written story of not only romance but love for the Lord. She does this without sounding preachy. She does, however, present enough scripture to enable readers to have their questions answered by the Word of God.

These characters were so exciting and dynamic that it was impossible to say which ones were the most important. The fact that Jeannette had to face devastating heartache so early in the story was poignant, but not the end of her suffering. The fact that she had so many obstacles made the book surprising.

I would recommend this book to anyone. If I could rate it more than a FIVE, I definitely would. I cannot wait for her next instalment. Great job, Ms. Levigne!

The Romance Studio
Reviewer: Brenda Talley

5 cups
I thoroughly loved A Quiet Place. This extraordinary read is loaded with crisp dialogue that keeps the story flowing at a great pace. The strong and likeable characters make this an exciting book, full of finesse. Michelle Levigne creates a story full of elegance and life-like players that connected with this reader. She allows Nathan, Brody, and Jeannette all to weave an interesting inspirational that touches upon the heart and makes one feel good all over. The romance that follows Jeannette, as well as the emotional heartbreak, is indeed superbly composed. This story undeniably left a huge impression on this reader.

Cherokee
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More

Why Michelle Wrote this Book:
Sometimes books just demand to be written. I think that's part -- just part -- of the reason why I wrote Jeannette and Nathan's story. I had created Jeannette and her son, BJ, for another story, and they kept showing up on the sidelines in different Tabor Heights books as I started "knitting" all the disparate, stand-alone books into a community. Then I had an idea for a family crisis story when my doctor had me on hormone medication for a short time, and the drugstore messed up the prescription, putting me into what I realized was chemical depression. You know how you're half-asleep, and your brain just goes in all directions without any real guidance from you? One night, I had this image in my mind of a woman standing at her husband's coffin, and his relatives basically forcing her out of town. From that came Jeannette's story. Somewhere along the way, Nathan tapped me on the shoulder and let me know he was there.

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Other books in the Tabor Heights Series:

The Second Time Around

Common Grounds

Seasons: A Tabor Heights Holiday Anthology

The Family Way

Detours

Author Bio:
Michelle has been a story addict for as long as she can remember, starting with The Cat in the Hat and Weekly Reader Book Club. She discovered Narnia and Star Trek in elementary school, and was a familiar face in the school library, especially when she became addicted to Greek mythology.

She fell into fandom in college, and has 40+ short stories and poems in various universes; Star Trek, Starman, Highlander, Stargate SG-1, Stingray, Beauty & the Beast, and The Phoenix. She and a friend published a multi-universe ‘zine, Starwheel, for 4 issues. All this time, she worked up to sending out original stories to magazines and publishing houses, eventually receiving rejection letters that weren’t the standard photocopied photocopy of a form letter.

She has a BA in theater/English from Northwestern College and a MA in communication, focused on film and writing from Regent University. She has submitted scripts for various screenwriting competitions and wrote and submitted scripts for MacGuyver, Beauty & the Beast, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, and The Pretender. She also wrote scripts for Matrix and Stargate SG-1, but never obtained permission to submit scripts. Their loss!

In 1990, her writing career finally broke into the public market when she won 1st place in the 4th quarter of the Writers of the Future contest, which earned a hefty prize, payment to have her story in that year’s anthology, and a week at a writing seminar in California before the awards ceremony. Unfortunately, it was a long-term launch, because it wasn’t until 2000 that Mountainview Publishing contracted for Heir of Faxinor. (Now at Hard Shell Word Factory). Since then, Michelle has published 40+ books and novellas with multiple e-publishers, in science fiction and fantasy, YA, and many sub-genres of romance. She has been a finalist in the EPPIE Awards competition (10 finalists and 2 wins, Lorien, in 2006, Inspirational category, and The Meruk Episodes, 1-5, in 2010, Anthology category) and has garnered 4s and 5s from many review sites.

Her training includes the aforementioned degrees; the Institute for Children’s Literature correspondence course; 8+ years proofreading at an advertising agency; and 10 years at a community newspaper, entering and editing freelancers’ articles and news releases. She has also freelance edited for small presses and a major business publisher.

In 2008, she launched her own freelance editing business, offering proofreading as well as light or in-depth editing services on an hourly basis. Check her Web site: http://www.mlevigne.com/ click on the red pen to learn more.

Don't forget your comment so I can enter you in the drawing. And don't forget the winner gets three books, this one, Loyalty's Web, and Journey to Forgiveness.

Happy reading, Guys!

Loyalty's Web, Joyce Dipastena

2010-08-17T21:51:00.000-07:00

Romance/Historical
In twelfth-century France, King Henry II of England has just finished crushing a rebellion by his power-hungry sons and now seeks to tame the lawless barons who supported them in this corner of his "Angevin empire." To this end, the king has sent the Earl of Gunthar as his royal representative to ensure that Prince Richard and his former cohorts faithfully adhere to the terms of the peace treaty.

Far from being welcomed with open arms, Gunthar no sooner steps foot in the county of Poitou than he is greeted by a series of assassination attempts. All appear to be linked to the former rebellious prince through the agents of the family and friends of young Heléne de Laurant. A clever, intrepid young woman, Heléne realizes that the only way to prove her loved ones' innocence is by exposing the true assassin. Heléne races against time--and dark secrets of the past--to unmask the killer before the kingdom plunges back into war.

Fierce determination gives way to mutual attraction as Heléne and Gunthar spar over the identity of the traitor. But their blinding magnetism almost causes them to overlook an even deadlier threat from an entirely unexpected direction.

Excerpt:
She spun on her heel, but had not run two paces before he croaked out, "Helen, don't go. Don't leave me like this again."

She whirled about as his voice broke. He did not care what she saw now in his face, if only she would not leave him in bitterness and hate.

Whose movement it was that brought her into his arms, he did not know, but he wound them about her so tightly, it was a wonder she could breathe.

"I'm sorry," she panted as he crushed her to his chest. "I did not mean it. Were anything to happen to you, I should want to die, too!"

He lowered his head with a groan, but found his mouth blocked by her hand.

"No, you must not. I cannot betray my own sister like this. She will be your wife."

"And you are my love," he said savagely. "Helen, I cannot endure it any longer."

"Let me go."

"Helen--"

"Let me go."

Her voice was quiet but firm. There was no mistaking her resolve. He gave a despairing shudder and released her.

When she walked from the garden, she took his heart with her, leaving him more devastated and alone than he had ever felt in his life.

Reviews:
Loyalty's Web is a historical tale of intrigue with multiple twists and turns, arranged marriages and true romance. It is a face-paced, well-written, fascinating read. If you enjoy historical novels...you will enjoy Loyalty's Web. --Midwest Book Review

Elegant descriptions, a juicy plot line and some "hold your breath" action scenes made this my favorite historical to date. The one thing I loved about it, my teenage daughter is able to read it and I don't have to worry about what she's reading. This book is truly deserving of the You Gotta Read rating that I am giving it. Pick up Loyalty's Web, you will be so happy that you did! It is a book to be read several times over. -- You Gotta Read Reviews

Why Joyce Wrote this book:
I wrote my books to share my love of history along with my love of happily-ever-after endings, and do so in an exciting, romantic, but "safe" reading environment. In the end, I wrote books that I wanted to read myself but have been unable to find on the bookshelves. Stories where the focus is romance, not sex. Where true love really does mean, "I love you more than I love myself, and that means waiting for marriage, because to do less would, in fact, be false to the love I bear you." I write for a secular audience, yet without stating them outright, I hope that my Christian values shine throughout my stories. I hope that by doing so, those who may not yet have fully found their own faith and who may be hesitant to pick up an "inspirational", might nevertheless be touched by the themes of honor, integrity, and virtue that my characters reflect in their lives.

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Author Bio:
Joyce DiPastena is the author of two sweet medieval romances: Loyalty's Web (a 2007 Whitney Award finalist) and Illuminations of the Heart (a 2009 Whitney Award finalist).

Joyce moved from Utah to Arizona at the age of 2, and grew up to be a died-in-the-fur Desert Rat. (110 degrees? A little toasty. 117? Utah isn't looking quite so bad right now!)

She first fell in love with the Middle Ages when she read Thomas B. Costain's The Conquering Family in high school. She attended the University of Arizona, where she graduated with a degree specializing in medieval history.

Joyce has taught piano lessons to children and adults of all ages for over 20 years. She loves to play the piano and sing for her own amusement, as well as in her church choir. Other interests include reading, spending time with her sister, trying out new restaurants, and unfortunately, buying new clothes. The highlight of her year is attending the Arizona Renaissance Festival, which she has not missed once in its twenty-two years of existence.

Joyce has been owned and loved by many cats, the most recent being Clio (who helps her with my website), and Glinka Rimsky-Korsokov (that's all one cat).

Joyce love chocolate chip cookies, Hershey Kisses with almonds (because if they've got nuts, they're good for you), and Orville Redenbacher's Movie Theater Popcorn with a video/DVD or TV on Sunday nights.

You can visit Joyce at her website at http://www.joyce-dipastena.com and at her JDP NEWS blog at http://jdp-news.blogspot.com

Don't forget to leave a comment so you can have a chance to win.:)

Happy Reading!