Winner of "The Sweetgum Ladies Knit for Love"

Congratulations to adge on winning the giveaway.

Thanks to all who entered for stopping by my blog, and guess what - I've got another book to give away next week as well, so be sure to stop back by for that.

Happy Monday...and happy reading!

PJ's got trouble...Double Trouble!

I've read many of Susan May Warren's novels and just loved the first book in her PJ Sugar series - Nothing But Trouble. I have been anticipating what the next book in the series would bring, so I was excited to see it listed on Amazon a couple of days ago and thought I'd share it. The cover even matches the color scheme of my blog - how cool is that!

About Double Trouble:

Just because she solved one crime doesn't make her a super slueth, does it?

PJ thinks so, and she's out to prove it to her new PI boss. She's suddenly seeing crime wherever she turns -- but is it in her head? And when she's assigned to house-sit for a suspect in protective custody, just how far is she willing to go to prove she's game for the job?

Double Trouble is published by Tyndale House - look for it in January 2010.

Find out more on the web:
Susan May Warren
Tyndale House Publishers
Nothing But Trouble
Amazon.com

A Man of His Word by Kathleen Fuller

About A Man of His Word:

When Moriah Byler married Levi Miller, she thought they would share a long life together. She is astonished when one day he abruptly leaves the Order, and her along with it. She is hopeful that they'll reconcile, but Levi has a fatal accident. Unbeknownst to him, Moriah is pregnant.

Moriah finds herself alone and unsure where to turn. She's reticent about trusting her heart to anyone. What Moriah doesn't know is that Levi's twin, Gabriel, has loved her for years, but has kept this to himself. Gabriel is a man of his word--and a man of God's word. After another unexpected tragedy, Moriah must learn to unguard her heart and accept his love so she can be made whole again.

My thoughts:

I have been an avid reader of Christian Amish fiction for a number of years, and count Beverly Lewis and Wanda Brunstetter among my favorites. I don't hesitate to say that this Kathleen Fuller book is on par with those of Lewis and Brunstetter. An enthralling lead story, exceptional character development, a subplot that ties in seamlessly, with romance and a light touch of faith, this story is a winner from page one. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this 'Hearts of Middlefield' series, An Honest Love, which is due out in March 2010.

About An Honest Love:

Lukas Byler is the man of Anna Esh's dreams--and he's asked her to marry him. But Anna has a secret she can't bring herself to reveal; she may not be able to bear children. She knows how much having a large family means to Lukas, but she's afraid of losing him so she doesn't tell him.

She's thrilled when, after several months of being married, she gets pregnant. But when she miscarries, her worst fears are confirmed. Can she bring herself to be honest with Lukas? And will he still love her when he learns the truth.

Find out more on the web:
Kathleen Fuller
Thomas Nelson Publishers

"Waiting On' Wednesday"

I just saw Annalisa Daughety's recently released book entitled Love Finds You in Charm, Ohio in my local bookstore yesterday, and it's one I want to read sometime soon. Today's post is focusing on her next release, Love is a Battlefield - the first in the Walk in the Park series, a series which will include books set in different parks throughout the National Park System.

About Love is a Battlefield:

Take a walk in Shiloh National Military Park in this fun, fast-paced romance by Annalisa Daughety, a new voice in women’s contemporary fiction. Recent history has taught Kristy O’Neal not to believe in love or risk her heart. Ace Kennedy came to Shiloh to research his family history—but it’s Park Ranger Kristy he’s studying. Using his own ancestors as an example, can he prove that true love really does exist before Kristy walks away forever?

Love is a Battlefield in published by Barbour Books and is set to release in October 2009.

Book Two - Love is Monumental is set at the Washington Monument and the surrounding area in Washington D.C. Release date May 2010.

Book Three - Love is Grand is set at the Grand Canyon. Release date October 2010.

Find out more on the web:
Annalisa Daughety
Barbour Books
Love Finds You in Charm, Ohio

"Waiting On' Wednesdays" is hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine. So join in - what are you Waiting On?

The Frontiersman's Daughter by Laura Franz

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Frontiersman’s Daughter
(Revell - September 1, 2009)
by
Laura Frantz


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

I was born and raised in Kentucky and my love of history goes deep - way back to the 18th-century when my family first came into the Bluegrass State. It will always be home to me, even though I now live with my husband, Randy, and my sons, Wyatt and Paul, in the misty woods of northwest Washington. I go back as often as I can to visit family and all the old haunts that I love.

I grew up playing on the original site of Fort Boonesborough and swimming in the Kentucky River and climbing the Pinnacle near Berea and watching the great outdoor dramas of the early settlers. Often my cousins and brother and I would play in my Granny's attic and dress up in the pioneer costumes she made us and pretend to be Daniel Boone, Rebecca, Jemima, or the Shawnee.

As I grew up I began to write stories and they were always historical, filled with the lore I had heard or read about. It's no accident that my first book (which is actually my fifth book - the others were practice!) is about those first Kentucky pioneers.

I feel blessed beyond measure to write books. My prayer is that you are doubly blessed reading them.

Note: Laura Frantz credits her 100-year-old grandmother as being the catalyst for her fascination with Kentucky history. Frantz's family followed Daniel Boone into Kentucky in 1792 and settled in Madison County where her family still resides. Frantz is a former schoolteacher and social worker who currently lives in the misty woods of Washington state with her husband and two sons, whom she homeschools.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

Lovely but tough as nails, Lael Click is the daughter of a celebrated frontiersman. Haunted by her father's former captivity with the Shawnee Indians, as well as the secret sins of her family's past, Lael comes of age in the fragile Kentucky settlement her father founded.

Though she faces the loss of a childhood love, a dangerous family feud, and the affection of a Shawnee warrior, Lael draws strength from the rugged land she calls home, and from Ma Horn, a distant relative who shows her the healing ways of herbs and roots found in the hills.

But the arrival of an outlander doctor threatens her view of the world, God, and herself--and the power of grace and redemption. This epic novel gives readers a glimpse into the simple yet daring lives of the pioneers who first crossed the Appalachians, all through the courageous eyes of a determined young woman.

Laura Frantz's debut novel offers a feast for readers of historical fiction and romance lovers alike.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Frontiersman’s Daughter, go HERE.

Back to School Blog Tour

See the end of this post for how to sign up for a chance to win The Sweetgum Ladies Knit for Love.

About The Sweetgum Ladies Knit for Love:

Once a month, the six women of the Sweetgum Knit Lit Society gather to discuss books and share their knitting projects. Inspired by her recently-wedded bliss, group leader Eugenie chooses “Great Love Stories in Literature” as the theme for the year’s reading list–a risky selection for a group whose members span the spectrum of age and relationship status.

As the Knit Lit ladies read and discus classic romances like Romeo and Juliet, Wuthering Heights, and Pride and Prejudice, each member is confronted with her own perception about love. Camille’s unexpected reunion with an old crush forces her to confront conflicting desires. Newly widowed Esther finds her role in Sweetgum changing and is surprised by two unlikely friends. Hannah isn’t sure she’s ready for the trials of first love. Newcomer Maria finds her life turned upside-down by increasing family obligations and a handsome, arrogant lawyer, and Eugenie and Merry are both asked to make sacrifices for their husbands that challenge their principles.

Even in a sleepy, southern town like Sweetgum, Tennessee, love isn’t easy. The Knit Lit ladies learn they can find strength and guidance in the novels they read, the love of their family, their community–and especially in each other.

RITA Award-winning author Beth Pattillo combines her love of knitting and books in her engaging Sweetgum series. Pattillo served churches in Missouri and Tennessee before founding Faith Leader, a spiritual leadership development program.

About Rose House:

A vivid story of a private grief, a secret painting, and one woman’s search for hope.

Still mourning the loss of her family in a tragic accident, Lillian Diamon finds herself drawn back to the Rose House, a quiet cottage where four years earlier she had poured out her anguish among its fragrant blossoms.
She returns to the rolling hills and lush vineyards of the Sonoma Valley in search of something she can’t quite name. But then Lillian stumbles onto an unexpected discovery: displayed in the La Rosaleda Gallery is a painting that captures every detail of her most private moment of misery, from the sorrow etched across her face to the sandals on her feet.

What kind of artist would dare to intrude on such a personal scene, and how did he happen to witness Lillian’s pain? As the mystery surrounding the portrait becomes entangled with the accident that claimed the lives of her husband and children, Lillian is forced to rethink her assumptions about what really happened that day.
A captivating novel rich with detail, Rose House explores how the brushstrokes of pain can illuminate the true beauty of life.

Tina Ann Forkner is the author of Ruby Among Us. Originally from Oklahoma, she now lives with her husband and three children in Wyoming, where she serves on the Laramie County Library Foundation’s board of directors.

About The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper:

The future is clearly mapped out for New York socialite Eugenia “Gennie” Cooper, but she secretly longs to slip into the boots of her favorite dime-novel heroine and experience just one adventure before settling down. When the opportunity arises, Gennie jumps at the chance to experience the Wild West, but her plans go awry when she is drawn into the lives of silver baron Daniel Beck and his daughter and finds herself caring for them more than is prudent–especially as she’s supposed to go back to New York and marry another man.

As Gennie adapts to the rough-and-tumble world of 1880s Colorado , she must decide whether her future lies with the enigmatic Daniel Beck or back home with the life planned for her since birth. The question is whether Daniel’s past–and disgruntled miners bent on revenge–will take that choice away from her.

Author Kathleen Y'Barbo is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than thirty novels, novellas, and young adult books, with more than a half-million in print. A graduate of Texas A&M University , she is currently a publicist with Books & Such literary agency.

My thoughts:

Unfortunately I was only able to finish The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper, so I will have to review the others at a later time, but I just want to say that I adored Gennie Cooper's story. This book was full of humor, romantic tension between Gennie and Daniel, and the many antics of Daniel's daughter Charlotte - a combination that made me not want to put it down. The 'story within the story' of the spunky Mae Winslow and her dime store adventures definitely add to the Wild West flavor of the book. I hope Kathleen Y'Barbo will write more books in this vein - I'm already needing another fix!

Find out more on the web:
Kathleen Y'Barbo
Beth Pattillo
Tina Ann Forkner
Random House

Surrender the Wind by Rita Gerlach

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Surrender The Wind
(Abingdon Press - August 2009)
by
Rita Gerlach


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rita Gerlach has published three historical novels plus articles in Writers Gazette, Write to Inspire, Will Write 4 Food, and The Christian Communicator.

She also is the editor of Stepping Stones Magazine, an online website focused on writing, marketing, and promotion for writers. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and The Western Maryland Writers Guild.

She currently lives in Frederick, Maryland. You can also visit her at her Blog.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Seth Braxton, a patriot of the American Revolution, unexpectedly inherits his loyalist grandfather's estate in England. Seth is torn between the land he fought for and the prospect of reuniting with his sister Caroline, who was a motherless child taken to England at the onset of the war.
With no intention of staying permanently, Seth arrives to find his sister grieving over the death of her young son. In the midst of such tragedy, Seth meets Juleah, the daughter of an eccentric landed gentleman. Her independent spirit and gentle soul steal Seth's heart. After a brief courtship, they marry and she takes her place as the lady of Ten Width Manor, enraging the man who once sought her hand and schemed to make Ten Width his own. From the Virginia wilderness to the dark halls of an isolated English estate, Seth and his beloved Juleah inherit more than an ancestral home. They uncover a sinister plot that leads to murder, abduction, and betrayal--an ominous threat to their new life, love, and faith.

If you would like to reas the Prologue of Surrender The Wind, go HERE.

Watch the trailer:

"Waiting On' Wednesday"

I have been an avid reader of Terri's books for years, having read all but just a few. She is the author of two of my favorite series (Cape Refuge and Newpointe 911). If you're looking for an author that really knows suspense, then look no further than Terri Blackstock.

About Intervention:

Barbara Covington has one more chance to save her daughter from a devastating addiction, by staging an intervention. But when eighteen-year-old Emily disappears on the way to drug treatment—and her interventionist is found dead at the airport—Barbara enters her darkest nightmare of all.

Barbara and her son set out to find Emily before Detective Kent Harlan arrests her for a crime he is sure she committed. Fearing for Emily’s life, Barbara maintains her daughter’s innocence. But does she really know her anymore? Meanwhile, Kent has questions of his own. His gut tells him that this is a case of an addict killing for drugs, but as he gets to know Barbara, he begins to hope he’s wrong about Emily.

The panic level rises as the mysteries intensify: Did Emily’s obsession with drugs lead her to commit murder—or is she another victim of a cold-blooded killer?

Intervention is due out in late September 2009 and is published by Zondervan.

Find out more on the web:
Terri Blackstock
Zondervan Publishing

"Waiting On' Wednesdays" is hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine. So join in - what are you Waiting On?

Kathryn's Fountain by David Claassen

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Kathryn's Fountain
(Cladach Publishing - November 8, 2008)
by
David Claassen


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

I'm a follower of Jesus Christ and seek to live my life to please Him and for His glory. I'm walking this journey with my life's partner, Diann. We've been married since 1972 and have two grown children. Our daughter Julie serves as a missionary with her husband Victor in Mexico in a ministry they founded called Fishers of Men. Check their ministry out at www.fishersofmenmexico.org. Our son Dan is married to Teri and he's a detective in a police department in a suburb of Indianapolis.

I have pastored the Mayfair-Plymouth Congregational Church of Toledo, Ohio since 1975, having just celebrated 33 years at the church. You can check out the church at http://www.mayfairplymouth.org/. You can also visit me at my blog, where I add material about every other day or so.

I enjoy photography, that's why I'm treating you with a different photo of mine each week on the web site. Over three hundred of my photos are for sale at www.istockphoto.com.

I'm also a ventriloquist, of sorts, and treat the children of my church with a "visit with Ricky" every third Sunday of the month in the morning worship services.

Raising white homing pigeons is another of my hobbies. I enjoy watching them soar overhead.

That's just a little bit about me. Thanks for visiting. God bless you!


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Kathryn is resigned to living out her last days at Victorian Manor, a beautiful old home for senior citizens. Then one day a miraculous experience happens to Kathryn at the garden fountain, and she begins living an adventure beyond her wildest dreams. Love and sacrifice take on new meaning as she involves a social worker and a police detective in carrying out what she believes to be her calling -- to rescue a street child named Jasmine.

Kathryn's Fountain celebrates the gifts that the generations can bring to each other. The conclusion is a resounding affirmation that it's never too late to make a difference.

If you would like to read an excerpt from Kathryn's Fountain, go HERE.

My thoughts:

With plenty of unforgettable characters and some interesting plot twists, this endearing book of how God can use anyone, at any age, for His divine purpose will be one you won't want to put down. I enjoyed this lovely book from beginning to end.

Montana Rose by Mary Connealy

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Montana Rose
(Barbour Publishing, Inc - July 1, 2009)
by
Mary Connealy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary's writing journey is similar to a lot of others. Boil it down to persistence, oh, go ahead and call it stubbornness. She just kept typing away. She thinks the reason she did it was because she was more or less a dunce around people—prone to sit silently when she really ought to speak up (or far worse, speak up when she ought to sit silently).

So, Mary had all these things she want to say, in her head; the perfect zinger to the rude cashier, which you think of an hour after you’ve left the store, the perfect bit of wisdom when someone needs help, which doesn’t occur to you until they solve their problems themselves, the perfect guilt trip for the kids, which you don’t say because you’re not an idiot. She keep all this wit to herself, much to the relief of all who know her, and then wrote all her great ideas into books. It’s therapeutic if nothing else, and more affordable than a psychiatrist.

So then a very nice, oh so nice publishing company like Barbour Heartsong comes along and says, “Hey, we’ll pay you money for this 45,000 word therapy session.” That’s as sweet as it gets.

Mary's journey to publication is the same as everyone’s except for a few geniuses out there who make it hard for all of us. And even they probably have an Ode to Roast Beef or two in their past.

Mary has signed an exclusive contract with Barbour that will have her writing eighteen (18) books for them over the next four years! This book is the first in the Montana Marriage Series. The second book will be the Husband Tree, and the third will be Wildflower Bride.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

Fire up your love of romance with Montana Rose.

When surrounded by a mob of ill-bred, foul-smelling, women-hungry men, the newly widowed and seemingly spoiled Cassie “China Doll” Griffin has no choice. Marrying handyman Red Dawson seems the only alternative to Cassie’s being hitched to a brutal rancher. But can this “China doll” bear exchanging smooth silk for coarse calico? Red was reluctant to be yoked to an unbeliever, but sometimes a man has no choice. Will Red change Cassie’s heart by changing her name? Wade Sawyer is obsessed with saving Cassie from a marriage of convenience. How far will he go make her his own?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Montana Rose, go HERE.

Faith 'n Fiction Saturdays: Children's Books

It's time once again for Faith 'n Fiction Saturday with My Friend Amy, and if you'd like to participate, feel free to check out her blog post with this weeks question.

Every once in awhile, I wander into the children's section of the Christian bookstore. And then I wander right back out. I'm not saying there aren't many good books for kids in the Christian section, there just aren't many. But the truth is, I'm not sure we even need Christian children's books, apart from maybe a few at the holidays. (Christmas and Easter)

Are there are any Christian published children's books you love? Do you think we need Christian children's books? Are there any topics or subject matters you'd like to see explored in children's books from a Christian perspective?

My answer:

To preface my remarks, let me mention that I have two daughters - one who just turned three and one who is eight. My eight year old starting reading shortly before she turned three. I have struggled somewhat in trying to keep her challenged in her reading without having to expose her to topics or themes that are not age appropriate.

I would have to say that yes, we need Christian children's book, and more of them. I try to have my eight year old read as much of it as she can, and try to stay away from a lot of the mainstream fiction for children, due to topics or themes that I don't really want her exposed to (witchcraft, fairies, magic, etc.). I feel that with Christian fiction/childrens books I don't have to be so vigilant in this. A lot of mainstream fiction I will pre-read to determine whether or not to pass along to her.

Another thought I had was this - I exclusively read Christian fiction myself, because that is what my personal convictions are - stories without 'adult themes or language', that present a message based on a Biblical and/or morally upstanding premise. Wouldn't I want my children exposed to things that are in agreement with those same convictions?

So here's a list of a few of our favorite Christian books: Rachel Yoder series by Wanda Brunstetter, Lily series by Nancy Rue, and many Dandi Daley Mackall books. For my three year old - she loves VeggieTales books, Hermie and Friends, and pretty much anything with colorful pictures.

"Waiting On' Wednesday"

Over the years I've read many of Robin Lee Hatcher's books. Earlier this year I read - and totally enjoyed - A Vote of Confidence, the first book in her "Sisters of Bethlehem Springs" series. I'm looking forward to reading Cleo's story in this latest book - she was quite a spunky gal in the first book.

About Fit to Be Tied:

It's 1916, and Idaho rancher Cleo Arlington knows everything about horses but nothing about men. So when charged with transforming English aristocrat Sherwood Statham from playboy into cowboy, she's totally disconcerted. So is Statham, who's never encountered a woman succeeding in a man's world. Their bumpy trot into romance is frustrating, exhilarating, and ultimately heartwarming.

Fit to Be Tied is published by Zondervan and is set to release in November 2009.

Find out more on the web:
Robin Lee Hatcher
Zondervan Publishing

"Waiting On' Wednesdays" is hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine. So join in - what are you Waiting On?

The Night Watchman by Mark Mynheir

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Night Watchman
Multnomah Books (May 5, 2009)
by
Mark Mynheir


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


Mark Mynheir was born and raised on the east coast of Central Florida. Like most boys growing up, Mark enjoyed sports, mainly football and martial arts.

In 1983, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and went through basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina. After serving four years in the Marines, Mark changed gears and pursued a career in law enforcement.

During his career as a police officer, Mark has worked as a narcotics agent, a S.W.A.T. team member, and a homicide detective.

Over sixteen years ago, during a health crisis involving his oldest son, Mark gave his life to Jesus Christ. Shortly after his conversion, he felt God leading him in a new direction: writing. Now he balances dual careers as a police officer and novelist.

He has authored Rolling Thunder (The Truth Chasers Book One), From the Belly of the Dragon (The Truth Chasers Book Two), and The Void (The Truth Chasers Book Three).

Mark is married to the love of his life and has three fantastic children, and they all currently reside in Central Florida.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

When everything is ripped away...

Eleven months ago, Ray Quinn was a tough, quick-witted Orlando homicide detective at the top of his game-until a barrage of bullets ended his career.and his partner's life.

Now medically retired with a painful handicap, Ray battles the haunting guilt for his partner's death. Numbing the pain with alcohol and attitude, Ray takes a job as a night watchman at a swanky Orlando condo community.

But when a pastor and an exotic dancer are found dead in one of the condos in an apparent murder-suicide, Ray can no longer linger in the shadows. The victim’s sister is convinced her brother was framed and begs Ray to take on an impossible case─to challenge the evidence and clear her brother’s name.

Ray reluctantly pulls the thread of this supposedly dead-end case only to unravel a murder investigation so deep that it threatens to turn the Orlando political landscape upside down and transform old friends into new enemies. As Ray chases down leads and interrogates suspects, someone is watching his every move, someone determined to keep him from ever finding out the truth─at any cost.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Night Watchman, go HERE.

My thoughts:

If you're like me, I'm sure you've read plenty of books that left you wanting more - but with The Night Watchman, full of great characters, a multitude of plot twists, and suspense that comes at you at a steady pace, I closed the back cover totally satisfied (although it does have me curious to see what happens with Ray Quinn in the next book). This is one of the best books I've read all year. If you're a fan of crime fiction and suspense, then this is a book I'm sure you'll enjoy.

Mohamed's Moon by Keith Clemons

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Mohamed's Moon
(Realms - May 5, 2009)
by
Keith Clemons

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


A strong defender of Christian values, noted author and lecturer Keith Clemons is a native of Southern California and graduate of English Literature at California State University, Fullerton.

In his former capacity as Vice President of Marketing for Mytec Technologies Inc., he was a frequent conference speaker, particularly when the forum centered on Electronic Commerce. Today, in addition to writing, he appears on radio and television where he uses his communications skills to explain coming trends that will affect both the church and society at large.

His passion for communication has resulted in the previous publication of more than a hundred articles. To date, Mr. Clemons has completed five novels including Angel in the Alley and the award winning If I Should Die, These Little Ones, and Above The Stars.

He resides with his wife and daughter at their home in Caledon, Ontario, Canada.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Are we enemies...
or brothers?


Two brothers separated at birth grow up worlds apart. Outwardly, they're exactly alike, but inwardly, nothing's the same--one is a devotee of fundamentalist Islam; the other, a Christian. In this modern-day Cain and Abel story, the lines are drawn not just over whose God is right, but also over the fact that they're both in love with the same girl.

It's a conflict with grave repercussions, little hope of resolution--and time is running out. In the background, a plan has been set in motion that will bring the United States government to its knees. Will an unexpected visitation reconcile the brothers in time to save the woman they love--and ultimately, themselves--from the coming devastation?

In his award-winning style, author Keith Clemons delivers a profound comparison between Christianity and Islam, a dichotomy of life versus death, love versus hate, and grace versus legalism. Mohamed's Moon will plunge you into a world where hatred and heinous acts are justified. But if hatred is potent, it pales in comparison to the power of God's love.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Mohamed's Moon, go HERE.

Winner of "The Hope of Refuge"

According to the results of the wonderful random sequence generator...

8, 12, 7, 10, 2, 6, 11, 1, 4, 9, 5, 3

the winning number 8 corresponds to Gayla's comment. So congrats to you Gayla, and a big thank you to every one who commented.

Hope everyone has a great week ... and happy reading!

Blog Tour & GIVEAWAY: The Hope of Refuge by Cindy Woodsmall

About The Hope of Refuge:

Raised in foster care and now the widowed mother of a little girl, Cara Moore struggles against poverty, fear, and a relentless stalker. When a trail of memories leads Cara and Lori out of New York City toward an Amish community, she follows every lead, eager for answers and a fresh start. She discovers that long-held secrets about her family history ripple beneath the surface of Dry Lake , Pennsylvania , and it’s no place for an outsider. But one Amish man, Ephraim Mast, dares to fulfill the command he believes that he received from God–“Be me to her”– despite how it threatens his way of life.

Completely opposite of the hard, untrusting Cara, Ephraim’s sister Deborah also finds her dreams crumbling when the man she has pledged to build a life with begins withdrawing from Deborah and his community, including his mother, Ada Stoltzfus. Can the run-down house that Ada envisions transforming unite them toward a common purpose–or push Mahlon away forever? While Ephraim is trying to do what he believes is right, will he be shunned and lose everything–including the guarded single mother who simply longs for a better life?

About Cindy Woodsmall:

Cindy Woodsmall is the author of When the Heart Cries, When the Morning Comes, and The New York Times Best-Seller When the Soul Mends. Her ability to authentically capture the heart of her characters comes from her real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families. A mother of three sons and two daughters-in-law, Cindy lives in Georgia with her husband of thirty-one years.

View Cindy's interview on Nightline about Amish Fiction.

My Thoughts:

This is the first of Cindy Woodsmall's books that I have read, and I really enjoyed it. She does a wonderful job portraying the tough and trying past of her main character, Cara, and the wisdom and compassion, as well as the strict adherence to the Old Order ways, of the Amish community. Cara and Ephraim's struggles are apparent as she ponders trading one not so easy life for another, and he struggles to demonstrate God's love to Cara while doing his best to adhere to the black and white set of rules put in place by the Amish. This was a very engrossing story, and with the additional supporting characters of Lori, Ada, and Deborah, I had a tough time putting it down. Cindy also gives us enough additional storyline on what will seemingly be another installment in her new Ada's House series. I know I'll be looking forward to it.

Would you like a chance to win a copy of this book?

I have the privilege of giving away one copy of The Hope of Refuge, thanks to Waterbrook/Multnomah. If you'd like to win and you're a US resident, please leave a comment that INCLUDES YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION (you at yoohoo dot com) by midnight Sunday (August 9th, 2009), and I will announce/contact the winner on August 10th.

New York Times bestselling author Cindy Woodsmall is on tour, and she may be coming to a city near you! Don’t miss your opportunity to meet Cindy and have her sign her newest title The Hope of Refuge at one of the following events.

Tuesday, August 11 7 – 8:30pm
Barnes & Noble
5141 Peachtree Parkway, The Forum
Norcross , Georgia 30092
(770) 209-4244

Wednesday, August 12 7 – 8pm
Barnes & Noble Opry Mills
515 Opry Mills Drive
Nashville, Tennessee 37214
(615) 514-5000

Thursday, August 13 6 – 8pm
Barnes & Noble
2540 Futura Pkwy. #135
Plainfield , Indiana 46168
(317) 838-7941

Friday, August 14 6 – 8pm
Barnes & Noble
1550 West 75th
Downers Grove , Illinois 60516
(630) 663-0181

Saturday, August 15 1 – 3pm
Baker Books
2768 East Paris Ave SE
Grand Rapids , Michigan 49546-6139
(616) 957-3110

Sunday, August 16 2 – 4pm
Barnes & Noble Booksellers
3700 Rivertown Parkway Ste. 2058
Grandville, Michigan 49418
(616) 531-1825

Monday, August 17 7 – 8:00pm
Barnes & Noble Booksellers
1739 Olentangy River Road
Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 298-9516

Tuesday, August 18 7– 8:30pm
Joseph Beth Booksellers
2705 E. Carson Street
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15203
(412) 381-3600

Wednesday, August 19 6 – 8pm
Hackman’s Bible Book Store
1341 Mickley Road
Whitehall, Pennsylvania 18052-4610
(610) 264-8600

Thursday, August 20 1 – 3pm
Rachel’s Country Store (Amish dry goods store)
6352 McClays Mill Road
Newburg, Pennsylvania 17240
(717) 530-9452

Can’t make the tour? You can still follow Cindy’s adventures on Youtube, Facebook, and Twitter. See you there!

"Waiting On' Wednesday"

The only book of Janice's that I've read so far is The Wedding Caper - a suspenseful, romantic comedy which I enjoyed a great deal. The following description for Fools Rush In indicates is going to have a comedic element as well. Since I'm a fan of romantic comedies, I am definitely looking forward to this one.

About Fools Rush In:

Bella Rossi may be nearing thirty, but her life is just starting to get interesting. When her Italian-turned-Texan parents hand over the family wedding planning business, Bella is determined not to let them down. She quickly books a "Boot Scoot'n" wedding that would make any Texan proud. There's only one catch--she's a country music numbskull because her family only listens to Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Where will she find a DJ on such short notice who knows his Alan Jackson from his Keith Urban? When a misunderstanding leads her to the DJ (and man) of her dreams, things start falling into place. But with a family like hers, nothing is guaranteed. Can the perfect Texan wedding survive a pizza-making uncle with mob ties, an aunt who is a lawsuit waiting to happen, and a massive delivery of 80 cowboy boots? And will Bella ever get to plan her own wedding? Fools Rush In is fun, fresh, and full of surprises. Readers will love the flavorful combination of Italian and Tex-Mex, and the hilarity that ensues when cultures clash.

Fools Rush In is the first installment of Janice's Weddings by Bella series. It is published by Revell and is set to release in September 2009.

Find out more on the web:
Janice Hanna Thompson
Check out the trailer for Fools Rush In
Revell Publishing

"Waiting On' Wednesdays" is hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine. So join in - what are you Waiting On?

The Sacred Cipher by Terry Brennan

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Sacred Cipher
(Kregel Publications - July 31, 2009)
by
Terry Brennan


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Over the past 35 years, Terry Brennan has accumulated a broad range of experience in both the profit and non-profit business sectors.

His 22-year, award winning journalism career included:
• Seven years as a sportswriter and editor with The Philadelphia Bulletin, at the time the largest-circulation afternoon newspaper in the nation;
• Leading The Mercury of Pottstown (PA), as its editor, to a Pulitzer Prize in Editorial Writing;
• Serving as Executive Editor of a multi-national newspaper firm – Ingersoll Publications – with papers in the USA, England and Ireland.

In 1996, Brennan transferred his successful management career to the non-profit sector and served for 12 years as Vice President of Operations for the Christian Herald Association, Inc., the parent organization of four New York City ministries, including The Bowery Mission.

Now Chief Operating Officer of the National Organization on Disability, Brennan also won the Valley Forge Award for editorial writing from the Freedoms Foundation. His two adult sons and their families live in Pennsylvania. Terry, his wife Andrea, and their two adult children live in New York City. The Sacred Cipher is his first novel.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

History's greatest secret could be tomorrow's greatest threat

More historically and biblically accurate than The DaVinci Code and just as adventurous as an Indiana Jones movie, The Sacred Cipher combines action and mystery to draw readers into a world of ancient secrets and international escapades.

When an ancient scroll appears in a secret room of the Bowery Mission in New York City, Tom Bohannon is both stunned and intrigued. The enigma of the scroll's contents will send Bohannon and his team ricocheting around the world, drawing the heat of both Jewish and Muslim militaries, and bringing the Middle East to the brink of nuclear war in this heart-pounding adventure of historical proportions. The Sacred Cipher is a riveting, fact-based tale of mystery and suspense.

If you want to read the Prologue of The Sacred Cipher, go HERE.

Timescape by Robert Liparulo

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Timescape
(Thomas Nelson - July 14, 2009)
by
Robert Liparulo


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


Robert Liparulo is a former journalist, with over a thousand articles and multiple writing awards to his name. His first novel, Comes a Horseman, released to critical acclaim. Each of his subsequent thrillers—Germ, Deadfall, and Deadlock—secured his place as one of today’s most popular and daring thriller writers.

He is known for investing deep research and chillingly accurate predictions of near-future scenarios into his stories. In fact, his thorough, journalistic approach to research has resulted in his becoming an expert on the various topics he explores in his fiction, and he has appeared on such media outlets as CNN and ABC Radio.

Liparulo’s visual style of writing has caught the eye of Hollywood producers. Currently, three of his novels for adults are in various stages of development for the big screen: the film rights to Comes A Horseman. were purchased by the producer of Tom Clancy’s movies; and Liparulo is penning the screenplays for GERM and Deadfall for two top producers. He is also working with the director Andrew Davis (The Fugitive, Holes) on a political thriller. Novelist Michael Palmer calls Deadfall “a brilliantly crafted thriller.” March 31st marked the publication of Deadfall’s follow-up, Deadlock, which novelist Gayle Lynds calls, “best of high-octane suspense.”

Liparulo’s bestselling young adult series, Dreamhouse Kings, debuted last year with House of Dark Shadows and Watcher in the Woods. Book three, Gatekeepers, released in January, and number four, Timescape, in July. The series has garnered praise from readers, both young and old, as well as attracting famous fans who themselves know the genre inside and out. Of the series, Goosebumps creator R.L. Stine says, “I loved wandering around in these books. With a house of so many great, haunting stories, why would you ever want to go outside?”

With the next two Dreamhouse books “in the can,” he is currently working on his next thriller, which for the first time injects supernatural elements into his brand of gun-blazing storytelling. The story is so compelling, two Hollywood studios are already in talks to acquire it—despite its publication date being more than a year away. After that comes a trilogy of novels, based on his acclaimed short story, which appeared in James Patterson’s Thriller anthology. New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry calls Liparulo’s writing “Inventive, suspenseful, and highly entertaining . . . Robert Liparulo is a storyteller, pure and simple.” He lives with his family in Colorado.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

David, Xander, Dad, and Keal have discovered a terrible secret. Now, finding Mom is only a small part of their mission. And time is running out. Using the portals to build an empire, Taksidian wants the house for himself, and there's nothing he won't do to get the family out. The consequences of his meddling reach far beyond the family--to the future of the world itself. The Kings know their survival depends on stopping the bloodthirsty assassin. If only they can find his weakness in time.

Most startling of all is their ability to change the path of history. But will their tinkering in time reunite the family and save the future . . . or set mankind on an irreversible course of destruction?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Timescape, go HERE

Enter the contest to win this book package by clicking on the image!!!

Winner of "Blue Like Play Dough"

According to the random sequence generator, results of...

6, 3, 2, 1, 4, 7, 5

indicate that #6 (Janna) is our winner, so congratulations Janna! An email is on it's way to you. I greatly appreciate each and every one of you for taking the time to stop by and sign up for the giveaway...and kudos to you all for leaving contact info!

I will be posting another giveaway later today for Cindy Woodsmall's newest release, "The Hope of Refuge", so be sure to stop back by.

Blessings...and happy reading!

Blog Tour & GIVEAWAY: Blue Like Play Dough by Tricia Goyer

About Blue Like Play Dough:

In the everyday stretch and squeeze of motherhood, Tricia Goyer often feels smooshed by the demands of life. In Blue Like Play Dough, she shares her unlikely journey from rebellious, pregnant teen to busy wife and mom with big dreams of her own. As her story unfolds, Tricia realizes that God has more in store for her than she has ever imagined possible.

Sure, life is messy and beset by doubts. But God keeps showing up in the most unlikely places–in a bowl of carrot soup, the umpteenth reading of Goodnight Moon, a woe-is me teen drama, or play dough in the hands of a child.

In Tricia’s transparent account, you’ll find understanding, laughter, and strength for your own story. And in the daily push and pull, you’ll learn to recognizes the loving hands of God at work in your life… and know He has something beautiful in mind.

About Tricia Goyer:

Tricia Goyer is the author of numerous works of fiction and nonfiction, including Generation NeXt Parenting and the Gold Medallion finalist Life Interrupted. Goyer writes for publications such as Today’s Christian Woman and Focus on the Family, speaks to women’s groups nationwide and has been a presenter at the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) national convention. She and her husband, John, live with their family in Montana.

My Thoughts:

Picture yourself with your dearest friend, sitting in a cozy nook with a warm beverage, her looking you in the eye and sharing the deepest parts of her heart with you. That's how I felt as I read this book. Tricia bears her heart in this book, sharing how God has molded and shaped her in the life experiences she's had, and her honesty goes a long way in revealing that as moms, God doesn't expect us to be perfect, but that by being a student of Him, we can not only teach those life lessons to our kids, we can learn from them ourselves. This book was such a great encouragement to me - every mom (and dad) needs to read this book.

Would you like a chance to win a copy of this book?

I have the privilege of giving away one copy of Blue Like Play Dough, thanks to Waterbrook/Multnomah. If you'd like to win and you're a US resident, please leave a comment that INCLUDES YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION (you at yoohoo dot com) by midnight Saturday (August 1st, 2009), and I will announce/contact the winner on August 2nd.