I read the first book in this series, A Ticket to Tomorrow, and really enjoyed it. I just finished this book and it was even better than the first one. I'll have to go get my copy of book two, Fair Game, off the shelf soon and read it as well. I loved all the characters (except the bad guys *grin*), and I give Carol two thumbs up for a hero with a moustache (I have a thing for moustaches!). She tied that moustache into the plot too, how cool is that.
| Q&A with Carol Cox, author of A Bride So Fair
Q. Where did you get the idea to write A Bride So Fair? A. Several years ago, I came across a brief article that mentioned the World’s Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893, calling it a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. And my response was, “If it was such a big deal, how come I’ve never even heard about it?” So I looked it up online and was overwhelmed at the wealth of information I found. I had no idea how many of the things we take for granted today were introduced at that fair—things like the Ferris wheel, Cracker Jacks, Cream of Wheat, Juicy Fruit gum, and the concept of the Midway. Familiar names from our history books were among the 27 million people who visited the fair. Thomas Edison, Scott Joplin, Frederick Douglass, Jane Addams, and Susan B. Anthony were all there. It was a moment in which our nation felt itself on the brink of major change, and the more I learned about the fair, the more excited I became. I knew I had to set a story there, and that initial idea turned into a three-book series, A Fair to Remember. A Bride So Fair is the final title, and it was hard to say goodbye to the setting and characters I’ve come to love.
Q. How much research is involved in writing a solid historical fiction novel like this one? A. I was so fascinated by what I learned about the fair that I continued researching for two years before the first book in the series was even contracted. As I mentioned above, I found a tremendous amount of information online, including photos of the fairgrounds and its buildings. I was able to purchase several books printed during that time period that gave detailed descriptions of exhibits as well as the reactions of people who visited the fair. That was invaluable in getting insight into how it affected people of that day. I studied maps of the grounds and floor plans of several of the buildings until I felt like I could navigate them as easily as I can get around my home town.
All of that helped in getting my facts straight, but I needed to add sensory details to make the setting come alive. What would my hero and heroine experience on the shore of Lake Michigan? What would they see, hear, smell? How would it feel to walk across the vast fairgrounds or stroll along the edge of the lagoon? I made a trip to Chicago, where I spent a day at Jackson Park, the site of the exposition. All but one of the buildings are long gone, but simply being there and soaking up the setting added a myriad of details for me to draw on when writing the story. At that point, I could look at my research photos and feel like I could step into the scene and describe it as though I’d actually been there.
Q. What inspires you the most as a writer?
A. It’s always interesting to hear what sparks ideas for other writers. For some, it springs from a character; for others, the catalyst is an issue they’re passionate about. With me, the setting often comes before either the characters or the plot. A particular place will catch my imagination and I’ll wonder what kind of people might have been there and what would have happened to them. I love the challenge of bringing a setting to life so it becomes something a reader can experience rather than just read about.
Q. You’ve written quite a few novels already, do you have any advice for aspiring novelists?
A. Read in a wide variety of genres to discover which holds the most appeal for you. Your writing will show far more depth and passion if you're working in a genre you love.
Be patient. Prepare to learn and gear yourself mentally for a marathon, not a sprint. The learning process takes time.
Study the craft of writing. There are excellent books available, covering everything from basic grammar to character development to plot and structure and much more. A number of organizations exist today that offer teaching, encouragement, and support to both aspiring and experienced writers. And writers conferences are held all around the country. Attending conferences is a wonderful way to build on your knowledge as well as getting to know others who share your passion for writing.
Develop a teachable attitude. The more I write, the more I realize how much more there still is to learn. There is always the joy of growing, of improving my skills, of learning to be a “workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (from 2 Timothy 2:15 NIV)
A Bride So Fair (ISBN 13: 978-1-59789-492-0) is published by Barbour.
About the Change and Cherish Series:Follow the story of feisty Emma Giesy  A Clearing in the Wild: Book OneSpirited young Emma Wagner chafes at the constraints of her 1850s religious community, which values conformity over independent thought, especially in women. Skeptical of the colony’s growing emphasis on preparing for “the last days,” Emma clashes with their increasingly autocratic leader—and faces the unexpected consequences of pursuing independence.  A Tendering in the Storm: Book TwoThis lyrical novel, based on an historical figure of the 1800s, follows the spirited and intelligent Emma Giesy, who achieves her goal of separating her family from the repressive religious community in which she grew up. But unexpected and dire consequences leave her family—and her faith—struggling to survive.  A Mending at the Edge: Book ThreeThis richly textured novel, the third in the acclaimed Change and Cherish series, follows the historical figure of Emma Wagner Giesy, who chafes under the restrictions of her 1860s religious colony. When her bid to belong in her unique way unravels her most precious relationships, she seeks new ways to stitch meaning into her life. About Jane Kirkpatrick: Jane Kirkpatrick is the best-selling author of two nonfiction books and fourteen historical novels, including the popular Kinship and Courage series. Her award-winning writing has appeared in more than fifty publications, including Sports Afield and Decision. She’s won the coveted Western Heritage Wrangler Award, an honor shared by such writers as Larry McMurtry and Barbara Kingsolver. Jane is a licensed clinical social worker as well as an internationally recognized speaker. She and her husband, Jerry, ranch 160 acres in eastern Oregon . My Thoughts:I haven't read this series yet, but her Kinship and Courage series was really good. Want to chance to win a copy of Book Three, A Mending at the Edge?Please leave a comment on this post with your contact info in this format (you at yoohoo dot com) by midnight central time on Sunday, April 27, 2008. I'll draw the winner first thing Monday morning. US residents only, please.
 This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingMy Soul To Keep(Multnomah Books - February 5, 2008)byMelanie WellsABOUT THE AUTHOR: A native of the Texas panhandle and the child of musicians, Melanie Wells attended Southern Methodist University on a music scholarship (she's a fiddle player), and later completed graduate degrees in counseling psychology and Biblical studies at Our Lady of the Lake University and Dallas Theological Seminary. She has taught at the graduate level at both OLLU and DTS, and has been in private practice as a counselor since 1992. She is the founder and director of LifeWorks counseling associates in Dallas, Texas, a collaborative community of creative therapists. When the Day of Evil Comes is her first published work of fiction, and the first of a three-book series. The second work, The Soul Hunter was released in May, 2006. Melanie lives and writes in Dallas. ABOUT THE BOOK:  As nasty as I knew Peter Terry to be, I never expected him to start kidnapping kids. Much less a sweet, funny little boy with nothing to protect him but a few knock-kneed women, two rabbits and a staple gun…It’s psychology professor Dylan Foster’s favorite day of the academic year…graduation day. And her little friend Christine Zocci’s sixth birthday. But the joyful summer afternoon goes south when a little boy is snatched from a neighborhood park, setting off a chain of events that seem to lead nowhere. The police are baffled, but Christine’s eerie connection with the kidnapped child sends Dylan on a chilling investigation of her own. Is the pasty, elusive stranger Peter Terry to blame? Exploding light bulbs, the deadly buzz of a Texas rattlesnake, and the vivid, disturbing dreams of a little girl are just pieces of a long trail of tantalizing clues leading Dylan in her dogged search for the truth. “Like water rising to a boil, My soul To Keep’s suspense sneaks up on you…before you know it, you’re in the thick if a frightening drama…Superbly crafted.”
---ROBERT LIPARULO, author of Deadfall, Germ, and Comes A Horseman “Written with passion, a good dose of humor and, dare I say it, soul, this novel reminds us that we all, with grace and good fortune, bumble our way toward salvation.”
---K. L. COOK, author of Late Call and The Girl From Charmelle
Karen Kingsbury will be appearing at the Christian Publishers Outlet on Friday, April 18, for a book signing. Date: Friday, April 18, 2008 Time: 6pm-8pm Location: Christian Publisher's Outlet 4145 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65807 Contact: Bruce Erdel 417-891-2200 Come at 6pm for a 15 minute Q&A session with Karen before the book signing. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~Join Karen Saturday, April 19 for a book signing at the Christian Gift Outlet store in Branson. Date: Saturday, April 19, 2008 Time: 2pm-4pm Location: Christian Gift Outlet 4270 Gretna Rd. Branson, MO 65616 Contact: 417-332-2025 Come at 2pm for a 15 minute Q&A session with Karen before the book signing. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~Join Karen and many other wonderful entertainers at the 2008 Women of Joy conference. Date: Sunday, April 20, 2008 Time: 9:00am Speaking Event Location: The Grand Palace in Branson, MO. Contact: (800)374-1550 Karen will be at the Women of Joy event throughout the weekend and available for book signing on Saturday from 10am-12pm and from 7pm-8pm as well as Sunday after her talk. She looks forward to meeting you there! Check out more information on this wonderful event.
 About Do Hard Things:With over 10 million hits to their website TheRebelution.com, Alex and Brett Harris are leading the charge in a growing movement of Christian young people who are rebelling against the low expectations of their culture by choosing to “do hard things” for the glory of God. Written when they were 18 years old, Do Hard Things is the Harris twins’ revolutionary message in its purest and most compelling form, giving readers a tangible glimpse of what is possible for teens who actively resist cultural lies that limit their potential. Combating the idea of adolescence as a vacation from responsibility, the authors weave together biblical insights, history, and modern examples to redefine the teen years as the launching pad of life and map a clear trajectory for long-term fulfillment and eternal impact. Written by teens for teens, Do Hard Things is packed with humorous personal anecdotes, practical examples, and stories of real-life rebelutionaries in action. This rallying cry from the heart of revolution already in progress challenges the next generation to lay claim to a brighter future, starting today.  About Alex and Brett and The Rebulution:Alex and Brett Harris founded TheRebelution.com in August 2005 and today at age 19 are the most popular Christian teen writers on the Web. The twins are frequent contributors to Focus on the Family’s Boundless webzine, serve as the main speakers for the Rebelution Tour conferences, and have been featured in WORLD magazine, Breakaway, The Old Schoolhouse, and the New York Daily News. Sons of homeschool pioneer Gregg Harris and younger brothers of best-selling author Joshua Harris (I Kissed Dating Goodbye), Alex and Brett live near Portland, Oregon . My Thoughts: This book needs to be in the hands of every teen you and I know. The wisdom and fire that Alex and Brett Harris have really comes through in the words of this book. Chock full of amazing examples of teens doing "rebelutionary" things, this book doesn't just tell you that no one is ever too young (or too old) to do the "hard things" in life, it shows you! Want to chance to win a copy of this phenomenal book? Leave a comment on this post with your contact info in this format (you at yoohoo dot com) by midnight central time on Sunday, April 20, 2008. I'll draw the winner first thing Monday morning. US residents only, please.
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingTrouble the Water(Thomas Nelson - March 11, 2008)byNicole SeitzABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nicole Seitz is a South Carolina Lowcountry native and the author of The Spirit of Sweetgrass as well as a freelance writer/illustrator who has published in numerous low country magazines. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's School of Journalism, she also has a bachelor's degree in illustration from Savannah College of Art & Design. Nicole shows her paintings in the Charleston, South Carolina area, where she owns a web design firm and lives with her husband and two small children. Nicole is also an avid blogger, you can leave her a comment on her blog. Seitz's writing style recalls that of Southern authors like Kaye Gibbons, Anne Rivers Siddons, and Sue Monk Kidd, and this new novel, which the publisher compares to Kidd's The Secret Life of Bees, surely joins the ranks of strong fiction that highlights the complicated relationships between women. Highly recommended, especially for Southern libraries. ABOUT THE BOOK: In the South Carolina Sea Islands lush setting, Nicole Seitz's second novel Trouble the Water is a poignant novel about two middle-aged sisters' journey to self-discovery. One is seeking to recreate her life yet again and learns to truly live from a group of Gullah nannies she meets on the island. The other thinks she's got it all together until her sister's imminent death from cancer causes her to re-examine her own life and seek the healing and rebirth her troubled sister managed to find on St. Anne's Island. Strong female protagonists are forced to deal with suicide, wife abuse, cancer, and grief in a realistic way that will ring true for anyone who has ever suffered great loss. "This is another thing I know for a fact: a woman can't be an island, not really. No, it's the touching we do in other people's lives that matters when all is said and done. The silly things we do for ourselves--shiny new cars and jobs and money--they don't mean a hill of beans. Honor taught me that. My soul sisters on this island taught me that. And this is the story of true sisterhood. It's the story of Honor, come and gone, and how one flawed woman worked miracles in this mixed-up world."
"...a special sisterhood of island women whose wisdom and courage linger in the mind long after the book is closed."
-NEW YORK TIMES best-selling author SUSAN WIGGS
 Catherine O'Rourke is a newspaper reporter covering the high profile trial of a woman accused of murdering her husband in cold blood. That woman, Annie Newburg Hofstetter, is being defended by her brother Quinn Newburg, a flashy Vegas lawyer whose forté is representing the criminally insane. Once Catherine returns to her hometown of Virginia Beach, she begins writing articles about a disturbing series of kidnappings and murders. Those articles contain startling details that seemingly only those close to the investigation would know, and Catherine takes the heat for not revealing her anonymous source, to the extent of being jailed for her silence. She begins having visions of the crimes she's reported on and shares the details with her confidential source. Things start to get intense as those details, along with physical evidence, begin to point to her as the main suspect. At Catherine's request, Quinn Newburg comes to Virginia to assist in her defense. Can his expertise of the insanity plea help set Catherine free? []-- []-- []-- []-- --[] --[] --[] --[]Randy Singer has done it again! If you think the last Randy Singer book you read was his best ever, wait until you finish this one. With storylines that could've been ripped from today's headlines, you'll find this book riveting from the very first page. Randy's characters are so real and believable - letting you see their fears and frailties, as well as their sympathies and strengths. Each plotline is expertly blended in this book with every facet truly engaging. And there's no doubt that your reaction to the book's ending will be the same as mine - how did I not see it coming? This book is definitely a thriller in every sense of the word, and will be a tough one for Randy to top. I give it my highest recommendation! By Reason of Insanity hits shelves in May. Learn more about Randy Singer and his fabulous legal thrillers at randysinger.net.
 Be sure to mark your calendars for September, as that's when Sharlene MacLaren's next book is to hit shelves. Looks like it will be a good one.About Long Journey Home: After divorcing her abusive husband, single mother, Callie May, is still nursing the scars of a painful past. The last thing she needs in her life is another man, so she’s less than thrilled when a handsome but brooding stranger moves into the apartment across the hall. Dan Mattson may be attractive, but his circumstances certainly aren’t; a former pastor, he abandoned his flock in Michigan and fled to the Chicago suburbs after the death of his beloved wife and baby daughter in a tragic automobile accident. Embittered by his loss, Dan turns his back on God. Callie mistrusts men, and the angry Dan often gives her good reason. Both are weighed down by the scars and disappointment in their pasts. When Callie’s ex-husband shows up to wreak more havoc in her life, Dan finds himself coming to her defense—and facing his own demons in the process. Will Dan and Callie be able to get past their baggage and give love another chance? Can they come to see life’s tragedies as part of God’s perfect plan? And most important, will they allow the power of God to change their hearts and mend their hurts? And here's another exciting announcement from her website...In November 2007, I signed another three-book contract with Whitaker House for a series entitled: THE DAUGHTERS OF JACOB KANE. This trilogy focuses on each of three sisters who live with their father, Jacob, and their very proper English grandmother, Helena, in the fictional west Michigan resort town of Sandy Shores in the early 1900s. The beautiful and determined sisters help run the family’s general store, Kane’s Whatnot, while discovering true love and a deeper sense of God’s purpose for their lives. Hannah Grace Maggie Rose Abbie Ann ****Watch for these titles beginning in January, 2009!****
 About Courting Emma: Twenty-eight-year old Emma Browning has experienced a good deal of life in her young age. Sole owner and operator of Emma’s Boardinghouse, she is “mother” to an array of beefy, unkempt, often rowdy characters. Though many men would like to get to know the steely, hard-edged, yet surprisingly lovely, proprietress, none has ever succeeded. That is, not until the town’s new pastor, Jonathan Atkins, takes up residence in the boardinghouse, affecting not only her with his devout faith and strong convictions, but her clientele as well. Emma clings desperately to her stubborn ways, refusing to acknowledge God’s love—until all of Little Hickman witnesses a miracle—the conversion of her abusive and alcoholic father, Ezra Browning! Only then will Emma begin to experience God’s transforming power at work. I really enjoyed this book - with it's host of likeable characters and an engaging plot filled with humor, romance, and a powerful lesson of forgiveness. It's definitely a book I'll be passing along.
Be sure to check out Sharlene MacLaren's website, as well as the first two books in the Little Hickman series, Loving Liza Jane and Sarah My Beloved.
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingAmber Morn(Zondervan Publishing Company - April 2008)byBrandilyn CollinsABOUT THE AUTHOR: Brandilyn Collins is a best-selling novelist known for her trademark Seatbelt Suspense™. These harrowing crime thrillers have earned her the tagline “Don’t forget to b r e a t h e …®” Brandilyn writes for Zondervan, the Christian division of HarperCollins Publishers, and is currently at work on her 19th book. Her first, A Question of Innocence, was a true crime published by Avon in 1995. Its promotion landed her on local and national TV and radio, including the Phil Donahue and Leeza talk shows. She’s also known for her distinctive book on fiction-writing techniques, Getting Into Character: Seven Secrets a Novelist Can Learn From Actors (John Wiley & Sons), and often teaches at writers conferences. Brandilyn blogs at Forensics and Faith. Visit her Website to read the first chapters of all her books. ABOUT THE BOOK The whole thing couldn’t have taken more than sixty seconds.
Bailey hung on to the counter, dazed. If she let go, she’d collapse—and the twitching fingers of the gunman would pull the trigger. The rest of her group huddled in frozen shock.
Dear God, help us! Tell me this is a dream . . .
The shooter’s teeth clenched. “ Anybody who moves is dead.” On a beautiful Saturday morning the nationally read “Scenes and Beans” bloggers gather at Java Joint for a special celebration. Chaos erupts when three gunmen burst in and take them all hostage. One person is shot and dumped outside. Police Chief Vince Edwards must negotiate with the desperate trio. The gunmen insist on communicating through the “comments” section of the blog—so all the world can hear their story. What they demand, Vince can’t possibly provide. But if he doesn’t, over a dozen beloved Kanner Lake citizens will die... Amber Morn is the climactic finale to Collins’ widely read Kanner Lake series. All first three titles in the series, Violet Dawn, Coral Moon, and Crimson Eve, were bestsellers. Library Journal placed Crimson Eve on its Best Books of 2007 list, and hailed it the “Best Christian suspense of 2007.” A few early reviews of Amber Morn: “… essential reading … a harrowing hostage drama.” – Library Journal “… heart-pounding … breakneck pace … satisfying and meaningful ending.” – RT Bookreviews “This cataclysmic ending left me breathless … Kanner Lake is the Best Suspense Series of 2007/2008.” – deenasbooks.blogspot.com “Collins has saved the best for last .. a powerful ensemble performance.” -- BookshelfReview.com “… a staccato tempo … Sometimes you just have to close the book in order to come up for air.” – Dale Lewis “…a masterpiece of page-turning suspense with a cast of dozens.” – Peg Phifer
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingWhen Zeffie Got a Clue(WaterBrook Press - March 18, 2008)byPeggy DartyABOUT THE AUTHOR: Peggy Darty is the award-winning author of twenty-seven books, including two other cozy mysteries set in Summer Breeze, Florida: When the Sandpiper Calls and When Bobbie Sang the Blues. She has worked in film, researched for CBS, and led writing workshops around the country. Darty and her husband call Alabama home but spend a great deal of time in Colorado, Montana, and on Florida’s Emerald Coast. ABOUT THE BOOK: It’s an ordinary afternoon in Summer Breeze, Florida, when a young, wide-eyed girl steps into I Saw It First, the trash-to-treasure shop Christy Castleman and her Aunt Bobbie have opened. Clutching a jewelry box, Zeffie Adams tells Christy she needs money to pay her grandmother’s medical bills, prompting Christy to offer this curious visitor more than the jewelry box is worth–or so she thinks. But complicated questions form when Christy rips out the box’s lining and uncovers a clue to a cold case murder mystery from eight years ago. Despite warnings from her family and handsome boyfriend Dan Brockman, Christy decides to do a little detective work of her own. After all, the infamous murder happened close to her grandmother’s farm. How risky could it be to take the jewelry box back to the Strickland plantation and ask around about it? Soon Christy finds there is more to the small box than someone wants her to know. A jewelry theft. A mansion murder. Dangerous family secrets buried in history. Can Christy convince others to let go of the past before it’s too late?
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingBetrayed(Tyndale House Publishers - February 6, 2008)byJeanette WindleABOUT THE AUTHOR: As the child of missionary parents, award-winning author and journalist Jeanette Windle grew up in the rural villages, jungles, and mountains of Colombia, now guerrilla hot zones. Her detailed research and writing is so realistic that it has prompted government agencies to question her to determine if she has received classified information. Currently based in Lancaster, PA, Jeanette has lived in six countries and traveled in more than twenty. She has more than a dozen books in print, including political/suspense best-seller CrossFire and the Parker Twins series. ABOUT THE BOOK Fires smolder endlessly below the dangerous surface of Guatemala City’s municipal dump.Deadlier fires seethe beneath the tenuous calm of a nation recovering from brutal civil war. Anthropologist Vicki Andrews is researching Guatemala’s “garbage people” when she stumbles across a human body. Curiosity turns to horror as she uncovers no stranger, but an American environmentalist—Vicki’s only sister, Holly. With authorities dismissing the death as another street crime, Vicki begins tracing Holly’s last steps, a pilgrimage leading from slum squalor to the breathtaking and endangered cloud forests of the Sierra de las Minas Biosphere. But every unraveled thread raises more questions. What betrayal connects Holly’s murder, the recent massacre of a Mayan village, and the long-ago deaths of Vicki’s own parents? Nor is Vicki the only one demanding answers. Before her search reaches its startling end, the conflagration has spilled across international borders to threaten an American administration and the current war on terror. With no one turning out to be who they’d seemed, who can Vicki trust and who should she fear? A politically relevant tale of international intrigue and God’s redemptive beauty and hope.
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingFor Pete's SakeBook Two of the Piper Cove Chronicles(Avon Inspire - April 1, 2008)byLinda WindsorABOUT THE AUTHOR: Maryland author Linda Windsor has written some twenty-nine historical and contemporary novels for both the secular and inspirational markets, but she is most noted for delivering “The Lift of Laughter and Spirit” in her modern inspirational romances. A Christy finalist and winner of numerous industry awards, Linda has written for Multnomah Publishing (historical fiction and contemporary romances), Barbour Publishing (romcom novella), and Westbow Press (the Moonstruck romantic comedy trilogy). Wedding Bell Blues the first book in her new The Piper Cove Chronicles series, is featured on Avon Inspire's launch list. In addition to writing and doing fiction-writing workshops at conferences across the country, Linda continues a music and lay speaking ministry started by her and her late husband, and she is a part-time financial analyst. She also works on “as desperately needed” home improvement projects on the 18th-century-plus house that she and her husband began restoring in 1986. Wallpaper and paint are definitely in her near future. LINDA WINDSOR LOCAL APPEARANCES:Saturday, April 5th, 2008
Jack's Religious Gift Shop
701 Snow Hill Road
Salisbury, MD 21804
2:00PMSaturday, April 12, 2008
The Gospel Shop
800 South Salisbury Blvd
Salisbury, MD 21801
11:00 AMABOUT THE BOOK For Pete's Sake is a remarkable story about the unlikely love between a grown-up tomboy and the millionaire next door. Ellen Brittingham isn’t sure true love exists until she contracts to do the landscaping of the estate of the sophisticated widower next door, Adrian Sinclair. Adrian has it all—at least on the surface, He’s engaged to a beautiful woman who helped him build a successful business and he’ll soon have a mom for his troubled son Pete. Yet, from the moment Ellen rescues a stranded Adrian on her Harley, his well-ordered world turns upside down, cracking his thin façade of happiness and revealing the void of faith and love behind it. Even more, his son seems to have his own sites set on Ellen – as his new mom. As Ellen’s friendship grows with Pete, she realizes that his father is about to marry the wrong woman for the right reasons. And despite her resolve to remain “neighbors only” with the dad, the precocious boy works his way into her heart, drawing Ellen and Adrian closer. Close enough for heartbreak, for Pete’s sake! But how can her heart think that Adrian Sinclair is the one when he’s engaged to a sophisticated beauty who is everything Ellen isn’t. When Ellen’s three best friends see she’s been bitten by the love bug, they jump into action and submit her to a makeover that reveals the woman underneath her rough exterior and puts her in contention for Adrian’s love. But Ellen must ask herself whether she’s ready to risk the heart that she’s always held close. Will Ellen be able to trust that God brought this family into her life for a reason? Or will her fear of getting hurt cause her to turn away from God’s plan and her one true chance at love?
 From Siri Mitchell's newsletter: "Many readers have been asking ‘what are you working on now?’ and ‘when is your next book coming out?’. I’m thrilled to announce that Bethany House Publishers will be releasing my next book, A Constant Heart, in October 2008. As you can probably tell from the cover, this will mark a change in era from my recent chick-lit, but the tone and style of this story will be familiar. Those of you who especially loved Chateau of Echoes will find much to like about this story of love and treachery set in the court of Queen Elizabeth I…and this book’s hero is my most romantic since Adrien in Kissing Adrien! Here’s some teaser information: In a time and place where the only luxury forbidden was love, how can two hearts find each other? 'Trust was a valuable commodity at court. Traded by everyone, but
possessed by no one. Its rarity was surpassed only by love. Love implied
commitment and how could any of us commit ourselves to any but the
Queen? Love implied singularity and how could any of us benefit another
if our affections were bound to one in exclusivity? Love was never
looked for and rarely found. When it was, it always ended badly.'
In Queen Elizabeth’s court where men and women willingly trade virtue for power, is it possible for Marget to obtain her heart’s desire or is the promise of love only an illusion? I can’t wait for you to read it!"
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingOn the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness(WaterBrook Press - March 18, 2008) byAndrew Peterson
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
 Author/Singer/Songwriter Andrew Peterson, a 2005 Audie Award finalist for his readings of Ray Blackston’s Flabbergasted trilogy, wrote and produced the popular Christmas play and musical Behold the Lamb of God: The True Tale of the Coming of the Christ, and the album by the same name, which received the 2004 Best Album of the Year, World Christian Music’s Editors Choice Award. Andrew’s received critical acclaim for his seven albums and is at work on an eighth. He lives with his wife Jamie and their three young children near Nashville, Tennessee, where he reads storybooks aloud to his family each evening.
Artist Justin Gerard has illustrated several children’s books, including The Lightlings storybooks for young readers by R.C. Sproul. He lives in Greenville, South Carolina, and works as the chief creative officer for Portland Studios.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
 Once, in a cottage above the cliffs on the Dark Sea of Darkness, there lived three children and their trusty dog Nugget. Janner Igiby, his brother Tink, their crippled sister Leeli are gifted children as all children are, loved well by a noble mother and ex-pirate grandfather. But they will need all their gifts and all that love to survive the evil pursuit of the venomous Fangs of Dang who have crossed the dark sea to rule the land with malice and pursue the Igibys who hold the secret to the lost legend and jewels of good King Wingfeather of the Shining Isle of Anniera.
Andrew Peterson spins a quirky and riveting tale of the Igibys’ extraordinary journey from Glipwood’s Dragon Day Festival and a secret hidden in the Books and Crannies Bookstore, past the terrifying Black Carriage, clutches of the horned hounds and loathsome toothy cows surrounding AnkleJelly Manor, through the Glipwood Forest and mysterious treehouse of Peet the Sock Man (known for a little softshoe and wearing tattered socks on his hands and arms), to the very edge of the Ice Prairies.
Full of characters rich in heart, smarts, and courage, On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness presents a world of wonder and a tale children of all ages will cherish, families can read aloud, and readers’ groups are sure to discuss for its layers of meaning about life’s true treasure and tangle of the beautiful and horrible, temporal and eternal, and good and bad.
“So good–smart, funny, as full of ideas as action.”
–Jonathan Rogers, author of The Wilderking Trilogy
“A wildly imaginative, wonderfully irreverent epic that shines with wit and wisdom–and features excellent instructions on how to cope with Thwaps, Fangs, and the occasional Toothy Cow.”
–Allan Heinberg, writer/co-executive producer of ABC’s Grey's Anatomy, and co-creator of Marvel Comics Young Avengers
“Totally fun! Andrew Peterson, a natural storyteller in the oral tradition, has nailed the voice needed to translate a rip-roaring fantasy tale to the written page.”
–Donita K. Paul, author of DragonSpell, DragonKnight, DragonQuest, and DragonFire
 I am a big fan of Kim Vogel Sawyer's books for two reasons. First, I am a Kansas native and love reading stories about the state I spent the first 21 years of my life, and second, she writes some really great books. Her upcoming release from Bethany House arrives in August. About Where the Heart Leads:
After graduating from Boston Tech, Kansas-born Mennonite Thomas Ollenburger wonders what God has in store for him. When he meets Daphne and accepts a position as a journalist at her father's Boston newspaper, his job requires him to support a presidential candidate with questionable values. Thomas is torn---and God seems silent. What should he do?
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingSweet Caroline(Thomas Nelson - February 12, 2008)byRachel HauckABOUT THE AUTHOR: I graduated from Ohio State University (Go Buckeyes!) with a degree in Journalism. As a member of Phi Mu sorority, I partied my way though the last few years of college. But, the truth is, and always will be, I belong to Jesus. At the age of six, I knelt at the altar of a Tulsa Methodist church and gave my life to the One who loves me. After graduation, hired on at Harris Publishing as a software trainer, determined to see the world. And I did it without a laptop, a cell phone, an IPod or portable DVD player. Those were hard times. But, I traveled to Ireland, Spain, Venezuela, Mexico, Australia, Canada and the U.S. from California to Maine. But, life on the road is difficult. Working twelve to fourteen hour days, one doesn't get to see many of the sites. In Ireland, our company's distributor drove me around at night so I could see something of Dublin. I met Tony, my husband, in '87, at church, of all places. We got married in '92. Tony has been a pastor for twenty years. I've worked with him in eighteen of those twenty. Our heart is to see teens and adults passionate, radical and whole hearted for Jesus. Tony and I don't have any children of our own, lots of kids-in-the-Lord and we love them all. However, we do have a very spoiled dog, and an even more spoiled cat. I've always wanted to be a writer. My dad used to tell me, "You're a writer." I have letters he wrote me post college, exhorting me to write. In this, I believe he had the heart of God. In '93, I started an epic WW2 novel with two plots. It was well rejected. After that ordeal, I took a break and put efforts into my job as a software project manager. But, I missed writing and in late ' 99, I took up the craft again. With a little help from my friends, my first book was published in ' 04, Lambert's Pride, a romance novel. I love writing chick lit and romance. I love writing. What an honor. Rachel has several other books that have been received with great praise, including Diva Nash Vegas and Lost In Nash Vegas. You can purchase copies of Rachel's books, signed personally for you, at this site: Signed by the Author.comABOUT THE BOOK: When a Southern waitress inherits the Lowcountry cafe where she works, she suddenly has to balance more than just her next food order.Caroline Sweeney has always done the right thing--the responsible, dependable thing--unlike her mother who abandoned her family. But when her best friend challenges her to accept an exciting job adventure in Barcelona, Spain, Caroline says "yes" to destiny. Then, without warning, ownership of the run-down cafe where she's been waitressing falls right into Caroline's lap. While she's trying to determine the cafe's future, handsome Deputy Sheriff J.D. Rand captures Caroline's heart. But when her first love, Mitch O'Neal, comes back to town, fresh from the heat of his newly-found fame as a country music singer in Nashville, Caroline must make some hard choices about love and the pursuit of the sweet life.
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingThe Perfect Life(Thomas Nelson - February 5, 2008)byRobin Lee HatcherABOUT THE AUTHOR: Robin Lee Hatcher discovered her vocation as a novelist after many years of reading everything she could put her hands on, including the backs of cereal boxes and ketchup bottles. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction (Whispers from Yesterday), the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance (Patterns of Love and The Shepherd's Voice), two RT Career Achievement Awards (Americana Romance and Inspirational Fiction), and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over 50 novels, including Catching Katie, named one of the Best Books of 2004 by the Library Journal. Robin enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, reading books that make her cry, and watching romantic movies. She is passionate about the theater, and several nights every summer, she can be found at the outdoor amphitheater of the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, enjoying Shakespeare under the stars. She makes her home outside of Boise, sharing it with Poppet the high-maintenance Papillon. She also likes to blog. Go leave her a comment at Write Thinking! ABOUT THE BOOK: Katherine Clarkson has the perfect life. Married to Brad, a loving and handsome husband, respected in their church and the community. Two grown daughters on the verge of starting families of their own. A thriving ministry. Good friends. A comfortable life. She has it all--until the day a reporter appears with shocking allegations. Splashed across the local news are accusations of Brad's financial impropriety at his foundation and worse, an affair with a former employee. Without warning, Katherine's marriage is shattered and her family torn apart. The reassuring words she's spoken to many brokenhearted women over the years offer little comfort now. Her world spinning, Katherine wonders if she can find the truth in the chaos that consumes her. How can she survive the loss of what she thought was the perfect life?
 How many of you enjoy TLC's hit show "Jon and Kate Plus 8"? I just saw where Zondervan has announced that Kate Gosselin, along with family friend Beth Carson, are writing a book about Kate and Jon's experiences. Zondervan's press release about Multiple Bles8ings:
Multiple Blessings shares the gripping details of the couple's journey after learning they were expecting sextuplets, while raising twin toddlers. While strongly encouraged by doctors to consider selective reduction for the sake of both mother and babies, the couple believed each baby was a gift from God and accepted the challenge he was giving them. Kate also writes about the numerous challenges the couple faced, including the medical battle involved in carrying six babies to the critical 30-week mark, and the loss of Jon's job that forced the couple to rely on God completely. Overall, the book is an inspirational and moving account of how the Gosselins found everyday strength in spite of emotional, financial, social, and physical exhaustion.
"The Gosselins' story is not only unique by nature but also offers an unparalleled set of life experiences that are emotional, inspirational and encouraging, and we're thrilled to welcome Kate as a Zondervan author," says Scott Bolinder, executive vice president and publisher at Zondervan. "Kate and Jon are walking a road that few others have taken, and they consistently show tremendous grace, patience and courage in their daily lives as they seek to provide for their eight children and raise them to honor God in a world where compromise and escape have become all too common."
Kate and Jon Gosselin's twins, Cara and Madelyn, were born October 8, 2000. Their sextuplets were born May 10, 2004. The Gosselin family is the star of the television reality series, Jon & Kate Plus 8, which premiered its third season on TLC in January.Can't wait to read this one...and you can find the whole clan on the web at sixgosselins.com.
 Tornado season's coming...in August! Check out this upcoming title by Cathy Marie Hake. Don't you just love that cover! About Whirlwind:
Widower Daniel Clark needs a nanny for his 18-month-old son, Arthur. Governess Millicent Fairweather is without a job. When the two meet on a ship to America, things come together---and fall apart---very quickly! What with illness, thieves, and secret codes, how's a person to know what's real and what's not?I have read a few of Cathy's other books, Fancy Pants, Letter Perfect, and Forevermore, to name a few. I found them all delightful, with a wonderful balance of humor, romance, and God's Truth. Be sure to put Whirlwind on your list of future reads, because if Cathy's other books are any indication, it'll blow you away.
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingTruffles by the Sea(Bethany House - February 1, 2008)byJulie Carobini ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Julie Carobini is an award-winning writer whose stories often spotlight her family, the sea, and God's timely work in the lives of those around her. She lives with her husband, Dan, and their three children in Ventura Beach, California. She also likes to blog! Go leave her a comment at Waves of Grace. Julie left you all a special message:To celebrate my upcoming CFBA tour March 5-7, I'll be giving away a copy of Truffles by the Sea AND and a 1/2 lb. box of yummy truffles to three of your readers.
All they need to do is drop by my blog http://juliecarobini.blogspot.com/ during the tour and leave a comment and a way to contact them if they win!
ABOUT THE BOOK:
 If you read Julie's first book, Chocolate Beach, then you might remember Gaby as Bri’s dramatic, lovesick best friend. Unfortunately, things get worse—much worse—for her before they get…well, best not to give it away. Sometimes all a girl has left is chocolate...Gaby Flores has a penchant for drama and an unfortunate knack for dating Mr. So Wrong. After breaking off yet another relationship, watching her apartment building burn to the ground, and discovering that her dippy delivery guy has run off with most of her business, Gaby decides it’s time to turn things around. So she moves to a tiny waterfront loft and takes on a new motto: “Be gullible no more!” With help from her friends, she works to rebuild her flower shop—and her life. But when legal troubles and quirky neighbors and two surprising romances enter her beachy world, Gaby’s motto and fledgling faith are put to the test. Can a young woman prone to disaster in both work and love finally find happily ever after?"Truffles by the Sea is delightful! Julie Carobini has a new fan in this reader, and she's earned a spot on my keeper shelf." --Kay James, RomanceReaderatHeart.com "This book is a delight to read, and the author has us rooting for Gaby from page one. This girl's never-say-die attitude is incredible, and her life is filled with all kinds of foibles. This is chick lit with heart – about so much more than finding a man.... While keeping the light chick lit tone, this book satisfied while avoiding the tired old formulas. Just when I’m ready to give up on the genre, I stumble across an author who can write without relying on stereotypes." --Cara Putman, writerinterrupted.com "I liked Julie Carobini's first novel, Chocolate Beach, but her sophomore release, Truffles By The Sea, greatly surpasses it. I thoroughly enjoyed Carobini's second book and felt her writing was much stronger throughout. The characters are deeper and yet funnier – a great combination.... It's a great read for a cold winter day – you can curl up with the book, a nice fire and pretend you're the one by the sea." --Jill Hart, RadiantLit.com
Romance is in bloom once again in Holmes County. Cleon and Grace Schrock are expecting their first child together and are happily settling into married life. And Grace’s younger sister, Ruth, is falling in love with Martin Gingerich. As their love blooms, the attacks on the Hostettler family begin again threatening their peace and security once again.
First, the attacks are just pranks...
A stink bomb in the family barn
The farm gets toilet-papered
Then, they escalate...
Laundry on the line is shredded
Weed spray in the garden kills all their garden plants
Finally, the unthinkable...
A horse and buggy are run off the road, costing the family dearly
Who’s to blame? Footprints lead directly to the Larson homestead and shortly thereafter Ray and Donna Larson make an offer to purchase the Hostettler homestead should they decide to move. But it could also be Luke Frieson, a young man still on rumspringa who hangs around with a rowdy English crowd. Cigarettes at the scene of one attack could point to him. Or they could point to heavy smoker Sheriff Osborn.
Bestselling Amish fiction author Wanda E. Brunstetter is certain to keep her millions of readers up late into the evening to learn whether all the mischief and mayhem will finally come to an end.
About Wanda E. Brunstetter
Fascinated by the Amish people during the years of visiting her husband’s family in Pennsylvania, Wanda E. Brunstetter combined her interest with her writing and now has eleven novels about the Amish in print, along with numerous other stories and ministry booklets. She has also written an Amish cookbook, an Amish devotional and some Amish children’s books. She lives in Washington State, where her husband is a pastor, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish settlements throughout the States.
Q. A Sister’s Test is the second installment in the Holmes County Series and deals with mysterious attacks that test the faith, perseverance and forgiveness of the characters. What was the inspiration behind this series and what message(s) should readers take away after they’ve read A Sister’s Test?
A. After reading a newspaper article about some Amish people who’d been attacked by someone with a grudge against them, I decided to write a series addressing this issue and showing how I believe the Amish would respond to a situation such as this. The message I hope my readers will take away from reading A Sister’s Test is the message of forgiveness, forbearance, and trusting in God to bring about something good even in bad situations.
Q. In the past you’ve mentioned having a serious fascination with the Amish people and it’s clear from your writings that you respect their culture. What is it about them and their culture that you admire?
A. I admire their strong faith in God and their commitment to God and family. I also admire the fact that they do not put their emphasis on worldly things and spend more time reflecting on God’s creation and the blessings He bestows.
Q. How can we adopt these principles in today’s society without giving up the ‘modern’ way of life and becoming Amish?
A. We can slow down and take time out to spend with the Lord, as well as our family and friends. Many people are so busy “doing” that they miss a lot of the wonderful things God created for our enjoyment. Realizing that “things” aren’t nearly as important as “people” will help us keep our focus where it should be.
Q. How do you think you’d respond to the attacks in A Sister’s Secret if you were Ruth?
A. I would no doubt be very frightened and concerned for the welfare of my family. I would, of course, notify the authorities, and perhaps do a little investigating on my own. Most of all, however, I would trust God for protection and ask Him to bring the answers that are needed to put a stop to the crimes. I would also ask Him for patience and a sense of peace.
Q. The ability, or inability, to have children whatever the reason can be devastating to a woman. Do you have any advice to women struggling in this area of life?
A. Two of my best friends are not able to have children of their own. One friend chose to adopt, the other friend did not. Both women are loving, nurturing, caring people, and both are living fulfilled lives. While motherhood is a fulfilling responsibility, I don’t believe being a mother is the only way a woman can be fulfilled. There are many other things we can do in this life that bring fulfillment, and if we seek God’s will and ask Him how we can best serve Him, He will fulfill our needs.
Q. Thinking ahead to the big reveal of the attacker in Book Three, would you be able to forgive this person if you were a member of the Hostettler family?
A. True healing can only occur if we are willing to let go of our pain and forgive those who have wronged us. Only in God’s strength are we able to find the kind of forgiveness necessary in situations like the Hostettlers went through. I would hope I would say, just as Christ said when He was crucified, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
Q. What was your favorite part of writing and planning this series?
A. My favorite part of planning this series was being able to visit Holmes County and get to know several Amish families who live there
Q. What books are currently on your bookshelf?
A. Fiction: Fair Game by Carol Cox; Nonfiction: Lord, I need Your blessing by Anita Corrine Donihue, and Self Talk, Soul Talk by Jennifer Rothschild. All three are excellent books!
Q. What inspires you as a writer? Is it a particular location? A particular ritual?
A. Anytime I’m visiting my Amish friends, I’m inspired to write about the Amish. I also have many Amish things in several rooms in my house, and just looking at them inspires me to write my Amish stories.
Q. You now have over two-million books in print. Do you have any advice for beginning or aspiring novelists?
A.Keep writing and perfecting your craft, and never, ever give up. God’s timing is always best.
Q. We’re eagerly anticipating Book Three…are you in the process of writing it? When will it be available?
A. Book 3, A Sister’s Hope, will be published in July 2008. (Here's a sneak peek at the cover...)
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Athol Dickson's university-level training in painting, sculpture, and architecture was followed by a long career as an architect then his decision several years ago to devote full time to writing.
Boys who never age, giants lost in time, mist that never rises, questions never asked...on the most remote of islands off the coast of Maine, history haunts the present and Vera Gamble wrestles with a past that will not yield. Will she find refuge there, or will her ghosts prevail on...Winter Haven
