Rival Hearts by Tara Randel

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Rival Hearts
(Abingdon Press - June 17, 2014)
by
Tara Randel

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. After finding Romantic Times magazine in a bookstore many years ago, she found information about writing organizations. Soon after, she joined Romance Writers of America. She located the local RWA chapter and immediately attended her first meeting. There was no stopping her after that!

Through Tampa Area Romance Authors, Tara learned all about the business of publishing, starting with the craft of writing to behind the scenes of publishing. She served as contest coordinator for four years and served as President for one year, enjoying the organization and the lasting friendships made there.

When not writing, Tara owns a business with her husband and stays busy with her two daughters. She lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery. Enjoy!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.


Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?

My thoughts:

I've read 18 of the 19 books in the Quilts of Love series and I have to say Rival Hearts is now included in my favorites in the series.

I really liked both the main characters - Molly and Ben - as they were both endearing and down to earth. I couldn't help rooting for both of them to win the editor position as I read the book. I loved Molly's heart for helping people and the great group of ladies she had to support her. And Ben, well, to tell you the truth, his fondness for my favorite baseball great, Cal Ripken, Jr., is one of the things that had me leaning in his favor.

This is a great offering by Tara Randel for the QoL series. If you're a lover of Christian romance with some great give and take between the leading lady and leading man, don't pass this one by.

My sincerest thanks to CFBA and Abingdon Press for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Rival Hearts, go HERE.

A Stitch and a Prayer by Eva Gibson

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Stitch and A Prayer
(Abingdon Press - May 20, 2014)

by
Eva Gibson
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

(No image available) Eva Gibson is the author of twenty books, including A Stitch and a Prayer, the latest release in the Quilts of Love series from Abingdon Fiction. She currently teaches Writing Your Life Story classes for Portland Community College and is an active member of Oregon Christian Writers. She has lived most of her life on the family farm in Wilsonville, Oregon, which is the setting for her novel.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

After her fiancé returns from the Klondike gold rush in 1897, Florence Harms sets about building a new life in her new marriage—even though the lingering effects of illness have left her weak and vulnerable. She and her young husband, Will, work tirelessly to clear the land around their Northwest cabin, content with their modest life.

But then a stranger comes knocking and Florence suddenly senses a restlessness in Will’s spirit that she had never seen before. When he leaves her with only a note that tells her he will return before their baby’s birth, she is devastated, and the illness that stiffened her joints returns. Counting the days until Will walks back through her door, Florence busies herself with a Tree of Life quilt displaying a map of the farm they call home. Doubts claw at her heart as Florence struggles to believe Will’s promise to return to her. Will her labor of love—and faith in God—sustain her as she waits to see her beloved once again?

My thoughts:

An enjoyable book, but definitely not my favorite Quilts of Love offering. I really didn't feel like I connected to Florence and part of that may be that I felt like I was dropped into the middle of the story - without enough backstory to fill in the gaps. I did enjoy some of the secondary characters and I seemed to connect more with them -Tilly, Aunt Amelia and even the dog, Vaughn to some degree. I also felt the ending was a bit abrupt.

Lovers of Christian Historicals set in the Pacific NW would probably enjoy this story and I just may not have been the right reader to really put all the pieces together and connect with the main character in this story.

My sincerest thanks to CFBA and Abingdon Fiction for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Stitch and A Prayer, go HERE.

Gathering Shadows by Nancy Mehl

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Gathering Shadows
(Bethany House Publishers - May 6, 2014)
by
Nancy Mehl
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Mehl lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband Norman and their dog, Watson. She’s authored thirteen books and is currently at work on her newest series for Bethany House Publishing.

All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “It’s a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help."

She and her husband attend Believer’s Tabernacle in Wichita.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Wynter Evans is a promising young reporter for a television station in St. Louis, but even a bright future doesn't take away her pain over the disappearance of her brother nine years ago. So when she stumbles across a photograph of a boy with an eerie resemblance to him, she can't pass up the chance to track him down. With research for work as her cover, she sets out with one of the station's photogs for the place where the picture was taken: the town of Sanctuary.

Almost as soon as she arrives, she meets the town's handsome young mayor, Rueben King, and together they begin to uncover long held secrets that could tear the small town apart and change everything Wynter thought she knew about her life. As the truth of her family's past hides in the shadows, it's clear someone will stop at nothing to keep the answers she's searching for hidden forever--even if the cost is Wynter's very life.

My thoughts:

I was especially impressed by Nancy Mehl's previous "Road to Kingdom" series and I knew I couldn't turn down the chance to review this book.

I really enjoyed this book. It was GOOD! It included many of my favorite elements in a story - a multi-faceted mystery with moments of nail-biting suspense, a hint of romance, and a faith message that is seamlessly woven into the plot. It has enough of the Mennonite ways interspersed throughout to appeal to the bonnet-fiction lovers, but not so much that it would keep those who aren't fans of that genre away. Another plus - seeing Kim Vogel Sawyer's "feline foursome" (Sam, Clyde, Maizie, and Frances) pitter-patter their way through the pages of this book - with plenty of snuggles thrown in!

I think Nancy Mehl has another winner on her hands...Gathering Shadows is strong start to this series and I can't wait to see what comes next!

My sincerest thanks to CFBA and Bethany House Publishers for generously providing a copy for review.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Gathering Shadows, go HERE.

Rise and Shine by Sandra D Bricker

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Rise and Shine
(River North; New Edition edition - May 1, 2014)
by
Sandra D. Bricker

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Shannon Malone thought she'd found her happy ending when she married Edmund Ridgeway, but a diving accident on their honeymoon left her in a coma. Waking up to the news that she's thirty years old would have been daunting enough . . . but she also learns that Edmund has lost his interim battle with cancer and the world has marched on without her. Her gorgeous doctor, Daniel Petros, seems to know everything about her and becomes Shannon's tour guide into a whole new world of madness where reality television has taken over the planet and everyone's life appears to revolve around a tiny screen on their cell phones!

As Shannon struggles to navigate through the changes-both in the world and in her-she also must discern real memories from imagined ones. Did she really ever wear capris pants and entertain in her living room, or was that Laura Petrie from her favorite classic TV show? And where is her beloved dog, Freeway? Oh, wait! That was Jonathan and Jennifer Hart's dog, not hers. Shannon's three elderly aunts flit through her life in true Sleeping Beauty style with her well-being always a priority.

And Edmund's sister Millicent descends like the Evil Queen she is, trying to extract Shannon from any claim on the Ridgeway family fortune. When a tornado moves through town and Shannon is knocked unconscious, will Daniel's kiss awaken her once and for all?

My thoughts:

Although this wasn't my favorite book by this author (Emma Rae is a tough cookie to dethrone!) I did enjoy it. A nice mix of Sandie's signature "Live Out Loud" Fiction - romance, comedy, faith, and "real" characters with real struggles that readers can relate to. It would make a good addition to the reading list of any lovers of Christian Rom-Com.

My sincerest thanks to CFBA and River North Fiction for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Rise and Shine, go HERE.

Paige Turned by Erynn Mangum

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Paige Turned
(TH1NK - April 1, 2014)
by
Erynn Mangum
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A few things about her:

So, if we were having this conversation in person, we would probably be hanging out at Starbucks or one of the cute coffeehouses in town. I’m nuts about all things coffee, I’m crazy about all things pink and girly, and I love, love, love the Food Network! I’m married to my best friend and the most amazing guy ever, Jon. He is amiable toward coffee, does not like anything pink or girly and tolerates the Food Network. So, we make a good match! In July 2010, we became parents to one of the funniest, cutest, sweetest little guys in the whole world (and nope, we aren’t biased at all!), our Nater-Tot, who is legally known as Nathan. Most days, I’m cleaning up messes, making goofy faces, trying to fit some writing in, and just LOVING the life that God has given me!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Despite her valiant efforts, Paige Alder seems stuck in chaos. Her new job as youth intern keeps her hopping from coffee shop to coffee shop all summer long, but at least she’s loving the one-on-one time she gets to spend with the girls. The unfortunate side-effect is that now, four weeks of laundry fills her apartment. Plus, she barely has time to help her sister and best friend with their weddings! And even worse? Something is definitely wrong between her and Tyler. She apologized for what he thought he saw happen with Luke. Can’t they move past it? Or could there be something he’s not telling her—something that could change everything?

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Paige Turned, go HERE.

The Amish Groom by Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Amish Groom
(Harvest House Publishers - April 1, 2014)
by
Mindy Starns Clark

and

Susan Meissner
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Mindy Starns Clark is the bestselling author of the inspirational Million Dollar Mysteries, the Smart Chick Mysteries, and three standalone mysteries, as well as the nonfiction books The House That Cleans Itself and A Pocket Guide to Amish Life. Her novels include A Penny for Your Thoughts, Don't Take Any Wooden Nickels, A Dime a Dozen, A Quarter for a Kiss, The Buck Stops Here, The Trouble with Tulip, Blind Dates Can Be Murder, Elementary, My Dear Watkins, Whispers of the Bayou, Shadows of Lancaster County, and Under the Cajun Moon, plus other books!

Mindy is also the author of numerous plays and musicals which have been performed all over the United States. She has written textbooks, articles, short stories, and more than 75 computer software manuals. A former singer and stand-up comedian, Mindy lives with her husband and two teenage daughters near Valley Forge, PA. She enjoys speaking to churches, civic groups, and libraries across the country. Her unique blend of humor and insight make her an audience favorite.

Susan Meissner is a multi-published author, speaker, and writing workshop leader with a background in community journalism. Her novels include The Shape of Mercy, named by Publishers Weekly as one of the 100 Best Novels of 2008 and a Carol Award winner. She is a pastor’s wife and the mother of four young adults. When she's not writing, Susan writes small group curriculum for her San Diego church. Visit Susan at her website: www.susanmeissner.com, on Twitter at @SusanMeissner, or at www.facebook.com/susan.meissner.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

New from bestselling authors Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner, The Amish Groom (Book 1 in The Men of Lancaster County series) explores the men of an Amish community in Lancaster County, how their Amish beliefs play out in their unique roles, and the women who change their lives.

Born to an ex-Amish mother and an Englisch father, 23-year-old Tyler Anderson was raised as a military kid until the age of 6, when his mom passed away. His dad, shipping off to yet another overseas post, placed Tyler in the care of his Amish grandparents, an arrangement that was supposed to be temporary. It lasted a lifetime.

Rachel Hoeck is the young woman waiting for Tyler’s proposal. She senses that though he loves her and wishes to make a commitment to her and his Amish beliefs, part of him still wonders whether an Amish lifestyle is truly for him.
When an opportunity to connect with his father unexpectedly arises, a visit to California causes Tyler to question everything, including a future with Rachel. Will the new girl in his life, Lark, cause him to remain in the Englisch world? Or will he choose to be an Amish groom after all?

A poignant novel of hoping for romance and searching for identity, set in a beloved Amish community.

My thoughts:

I've not read any of Mindy Starns Clark's previous Amish-themed novels and it's also been a while since I've read a Susan Meissner book, but together these ladies make a winning combination!

This book was so compelling that I read it in one day! I rarely read a book in a day anymore, but I couldn't put this one down. Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres and these ladies did a wonderful job at making the character of the Amish and the humility and simplicity of the Amish lifestyle shine in the pages of this book.

The Amish Groom has great characters, drama and a well-developed and multi-layered plot, and even a slight touch of romantic tension. This is probably one of the best books I've read so far this year. If you are a lover of Amish fiction, be sure to pick up a copy. You won't be disappointed!

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Amish Groom, go HERE.

A Promise in Pieces by Emily T Wierenga

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Promise in Pieces
(Abingdon Press - April 15, 2014)
by
Emily T. Wierenga
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the Author:

I’m Emily, and I’m honored and humbled to meet you, friend.

We’re all stumbling along on this journey and you can approach me about anything okay? I’m an open book, with dog-eared pages and a worn cover.

I’m mama to two boys, ages two and four, and married to a farm-boy-turned-math-teacher. We live in a small Dutch hamlet with three churches, one Co-Op and no stop lights. There are a lot of fields out here, there’s a lot of space and sky for breathing and running and writing.

We foster two boys in addition to our own two, and before I had kids, I took care of my Mum who had brain cancer. She fought back and has recovered, all glory to God, and my pastor-father still holds her hand while they go for daily walks.

I battled anorexia nervosa as a child, and then again as a newly married woman, and I write a lot about body image now and have a passion for women to learn to love themselves.

My husband and I have battled infertility and are currently trying to adopt our third child through the local Alberta government.

I hurt for the church, and believe in it, and pray for it, as I’ve grown up inside its walls and have heard its groanings.

I have a heart for Africa, particularly Uganda, and went there in January on a bloggers’ trip with World Help.

My favorite things to do are read literary novels, play guitar, snowboard, paint with oil and acrylics and hug my babies.

I am the author of two books on eating disorders, a novel releasing this spring, and a memoir coming out this summer.

I hope you’ll connect with me on FB: https://www.facebook.com/emilytwierenga, or if you prefer, Twitter: @emily_wierenga. I’d love to have a virtual glass of wine, or cup of coffee, with you.

Peace to you friends,

e.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

After the end of World War II, Clara Kirkpatrick returns from the Women’s Army Corp to deliver a dying soldier’s last wishes: convey his love to his young widow, Mattie, with apologies for the missed life they had planned to share.

Struggling with her own post-war trauma, Clara thinks she’s not prepared to handle the grief of this broken family. Yet upon meeting Mattie, and receiving a baby quilt that will never cuddle the soldier’s baby, Clara vows to honor the sacrifices that family made.

Now a labor and delivery nurse in her rural hometown, Clara wraps each new babe in the gifted quilt and later stitches the child’s name into the cloth. As each new child is welcomed by the quilt, Clara begins to wonder whatever
happened to Mattie—and if her own life would ever experience the love of a newborn. Little does she know that she will have the opportunity to re-gift the special quilt—years later and carrying even greater significance than when it was first bestowed.

My thoughts:

I've read all but one of the books in the Quilts of Love books, and I have to say that A Promise in Pieces ranks as one of my favorites.

I love both the "stories" in the book - Clara's life as a young woman and also as a mature woman with the wisdom that comes from living a long life. The story lines together struck a perfect balance. The quilt ties both "stories" together and brings about a lovely friendship with Mattie, the widow of one of the patients Clara attends to during her wartime assignment in France.

I know many women (myself included) feel like Clara did in this book - sometimes floundering without knowing the purpose of what God has for us and not wanting to extend ourselves to love and pursue things because of the pain it may cause us. But like Clara, we need to learn that God has plans for all of us to fulfill - they may not necessarily be anything of great importance in the world at large, and may only touch the lives of those around us - our world - but that doesn't make them any less significant.

This story has a great lesson. God wants us all to live a life of faith - one that He reveals to us a piece at a time, letting us know that the masterful tapestry that is our life is stitched together lovingly by His hand, revealing His promise for us and in us.

My thanks to CFBA and Abingdon Press for generously providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Promise in Pieces, go HERE.

Maybelle in Stitches by Joyce Magnin

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Maybelle In Stitches
(Abingdon Press - March 18, 2014)
by
Joyce Magnin
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from the Author:

I am the author of seven novels. Five adult novels and two middle grade readers. I never wanted to do anything else but write and every day I wake up astonished that I get to do what I always dreamed about. My days are filled with words and images along with the usual family stuff. I have three children, Rebekah who is married to Joshua. They have three of the most adorable boys on the planet, Lemuel, Cedar and Soren. My daughter Emily Kate is a lovely young woman anthropologist and my son Adam is fourteen and a student--he's a genius who loves frogs and lizards and fish and plants. He amazes me.

I have never eaten a scallop. I love cream soda. Drink way too much coffee. I do not like elevators but I do enjoy needle arts and of course books. I prefer jazz over country (no offense), milk chocolate over dark, but not roller coasters although my life has often resembled a roller coaster ride.

One of my life's desires is to meet Amy Grant so I can tell her she saved my life.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Maybelle can’t sew. But when she finds an unfinished quilt in the attic of her mother’s house, she gets the crazy idea to complete it. At first, it’s just a way to fill the lonely nights while her husband, staff sergeant Holden Kazinski, is away fighting in World War II.


Yet when Maybelle discovers that the quilt is made from scraps of material that can be traced back through her family heritage, the project is suddenly much more important. Then word comes that Holden is missing in action, and with little else to do, Maybelle clings to the quilt as much as to the hope that her husband is still alive. As neighborhood friends gather around Maybelle to help her through the unknown days and nights ahead, it is the quilt that becomes a symbol of her unflagging belief that Holden will return—to her, to their home, and to their quilt-covered bed.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Maybelle In Stitches, go HERE.

Poison Town by Creston Mapes...and a GIVEAWAY!

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Poison Town
(David C. Cook - February 1, 2014)
by
Creston Mapes
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Creston has fond memories of his boyhood in Bath, Ohio, where he became enchanted with his future wife, way back in the fourth grade. His father, Bernie, owned and operated The Weathervane Furniture Shop in town. The whole family lived right upstairs in the century-old house known as "The Shop."


Creston studied journalism at Bowling Green State University, then began his writing career. During the past 30 years, he has worked as a reporter, corporate copywriter, creative director, freelance writer, and author.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

There's More Than One Kind of Poison in This Town

People are sick and dying. Rumors are swirling. Some claim chemicals leaking from a manufacturing plant are causing the cancer that's crippling people on the poor side of Trenton City, Ohio. Yet nothing at the plant appears amiss.

The problem remains a mystery until reporter Jack Crittendon's long-time mechanic falls ill and he investigates. Soon Jack becomes engulfed in a smokescreen of lies, setups, greed, and scandal.

The deeper he digs, the more toxic the corruption he uncovers. As he faces off with the big-time players behind the scenes and tries to beat the clock before more people die, he realizes the chillingly unthinkable--he knows too much.

My thoughts:

How can you not be intrigued by a book titled "Poison Town"? I always love finding books with clever titles that don't just have a singular meaning - and this one was no exception! The synopsis above speaks of one of the meanings of the "poison", but the book is definitely worth the read just to find out what other "poison" lurks about!

Easily one of the best books I've read this year, I enjoyed the action and suspense, diverse and well-written characters, and there's even a light touch of romance - not enough to appall the gents but enough to satisfy most ladies. There are a lot of great scenes within the pages of the book - one of my favorites happens at Farley's Home Store - you'll know it when you read it.

This is book two of The Crittendon Files, but not having read book one, Fear Has a Name, I can say didn't feel lost as the book included enough back story to bring me up to par. I think this book could even be read as a stand alone.

I'd heard of Creston Mapes when his first books came out but hadn't had the pleasure (and I mean that sincerely) of reading them but plan to dig in to his backlist in the near future.

My sincere thanks to CFBA and David C Cook for generously providing a copy for review.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Poison Town, go HERE.

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


I have the privilege of giving away one copy of Poison Town, thanks to David C Cook. 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 Tuesday (March 25th, 2014), and I will announce/contact the winner on March 26th, 2014.

Please feel free to share this with your Christian Suspense-loving friends, if you would!

How Sweet the Sound by Amy Sorrells

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
How Sweet the Sound
(David C. Cook - March 1, 2014)
by
Amy K. Sorrells
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

An Indianapolis native and graduate of DePauw University, Amy lives with her husband, three boys and a gaggle of golden retrievers in central Indiana. After writing and editing for her college newspaper, she combined a nursing degree with journalism and creative writing, which led to publishing and editing a wide array of medical and nursing writing and multimedia projects over the past 21 years, a position as director of communications of her church’s children’s ministry, as well as a weekly column for a local newspaper which ran from 2009-2012. She has been a two-time semi-finalist for the ACFW Genesis awards, and was the winner of the 2011 Women of Faith writing contest.

When she’s not reading or writing, Amy loves spending time with her three sons; spicy lunches and art gallery walks with her husband; digging in her garden sans gloves; walking her dogs; up-cycling old furniture and junk; photography; and friends.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

From a distance, the Harlans appear to be the perfect Southern family. Wealth and local fame mask the drama and dysfunction swirling through their family line. But as the summer heats up, a flood tide of long hidden secrets surface.

Devastation from a rape followed by the murder of two family members brings three generations of the Harlans together on their pecan plantation in Bay Spring, Alabama. Chief among them is Anniston, who by the time she turned thirteen thought she’d seen it all. But as her heart awakens to the possibility of love, she begins to deal with her loneliness and grief.

This tender coming-of-age tale, inspired by the story of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13, shows how true healing and hope comes only from God. Though our earthly family can wound and disappoint, our heavenly Father brings freedom to those long held captive through His mercy and grace.


My thoughts:

Subjects like those contained in the pages of this book are not the easiest to write with dignity and grace, especially in Christian literature, but I found that the author did a wonderful job balancing the extremes.

Sometimes haunting and sometimes refreshing, the story shares indignities suffered in silence in the Harlan family as well as the family's ability to find joy in the simplest of things. I especially like how the story and song of Jacob's Ladder weaves through the pages, showing how God sends down small miracles in seemingly unexpected ways.

How Sweet the Sound is a compelling debut from Amy Sorrells, with deep emotive characters and a rich and penetrating theme. It will tug at your heart strings as you turn the pages and leave you with a sense of satisfaction of a coming of age story well written.

** A heads up for those who prefer not to have profanity in the books they read - there were a couple of mild profanities in this book (H---, D---). **

My sincerest thanks to CFBA and David C Cook Publishing for generously providing a copy for review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of How Sweet the Sound, go HERE.

A Sky without Stars by Linda S Clare

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Sky Without Stars
(Abingdon Press - February 18, 2014)
by
Linda S. Clare
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Linda S. Clare is an
award-winning author and coauthor of several books and has also
published many essays, stories, and poems in publications, including The
Christian Reader, The Denver Post, and The
Philadelphia Inquirer. Her most recent book is A
Sky without Stars, the newest release in Abingdon’s Quilts of
Love line. Born in Arizona, Linda and her husband now make their home
in Eugene, Oregon, where Linda has taught college-level creative
writing classes, and writes, edits, and mentors other writers. She also
is a frequent writing conference presenter, a church retreat leader,
and mom to four grown children and five wayward cats.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Frankie Chasing Bear is caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she also thinks he will need to learn the white man’s ways to succeed. After the untimely death of her husband, Frankie joins the U.S. Government’s Relocation Program and moves to Arizona. There she begins sewing a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn, and prayed into it.
A bed without a quilt is like a sky without stars, but neither the quilt—nor her new life—comes easily to Frankie. Nick Vandergriff, for instance, is the last man Frankie wants to trust. He’s half-Lakota but Christian, and Frankie can see no good coming from that faith after her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian school. Can Nick convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren’t all bad? And will Frankie learn that love is the most important ingredient—for her son’s quilt and life itself?

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Sky Without Stars, go HERE.

Once Upon a Winter's Heart by Melody Carlson

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Once Upon a Winter's Heart
(Center Street - January 7, 2014)

by
Melody Carlson
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Over the years, Melody Carlson has worn many hats, from pre-school teacher to youth counselor to political activist to senior editor. But most of all, she loves to write! Currently she freelances from her home. In the past eight years, she has published over ninety books for children, teens, and adults--with sales totaling more than two million and many titles appearing on the ECPA Bestsellers List. Several of her books have been finalists for, and winners of, various writing awards.

She has two grown sons and lives in Central Oregon with her husband and chocolate lab retriever. They enjoy skiing, hiking, gardening, camping and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

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

My thoughts:

I'm always excited when Melody Carlson comes out with a new holiday novella. I especially liked that this once centered around a different holiday than she usually writes about - Valentine's Day.

Italian food, Dean Martin music, and a swoonworthy leading man named Lane Forester make this a delectable story. Emma's past has soured her on love and she's definitely not looking for romance of any kind - especially since no love story could compete with the love that her recently deceased Poppi shared with his wife, Nona. Adding drama to the story is Emma's parents having marital difficulties and a sister, Anne, who has her sights set on winning Lane's love.

I enjoyed the immediate chemistry between Emma and Lane, and Anne's conniving character was written to perfection. So if you're looking for a Valentine's Day story with plenty of fireworks...both good and bad...then get a copy of this book. It's a romance lover's delight!

My sincerest thanks to CFBA and Center Street Publishing for generously providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Once Upon a Winter's Heart, go HERE.

Gabriel's Bride by Amy Lillard

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Gabriel's Bride
(B&H Books - February 1, 2014)
by
Amy Lillard
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

I’m a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.

I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I’ve retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I’m from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son–a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!

I love homemade tacos, shoes, and romance novels–not necessarily in that order. I’m a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I’m shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.

I believe that God is love. I guess that’s why I adore romances.

I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I’m a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that’s me June Cleaver with a laptop.

I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twilight series (I’ll get to it or I won’t, either way I’m good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I’m alone on this last one, and again, I’m good with it.)

Favorite movies–(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940′s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven’t seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn’s and Audrey’s.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Rachel Yoder has two choices: marry Gabriel Fisher or move to Ohio. As an orphan, Rachel doesn’t have much to offer; any match she can make will be a good one. She just didn’t plan on Gabriel with his big hands and permanent frown.

As a widower Gabriel needs help caring for the farm and his six children. But he never thought he’d marry a slip of a girl who barely reaches his chin.

Yet as time passes, Gabriel finds himself thinking about a real marriage. They have spoken vows to God and each other, but can he risk his heart with Rachel?

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

Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Scraps of Evidence
(Abingdon Press - January 21, 2014)
by
Barbara Cameron
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the author:

CBD, CBA, and ECPA bestselling author of 35 books (including new series upcoming for Abingdon Press in 2011/2012) including fiction and non-fiction books for Abingdon Press, Thomas Nelson, Harlequin, and other publishers.

I sold three films to HBO/Cinemax and am the first winner of the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award.

My two novellas won the 2nd and 3rd place in the Inspirational Readers Choice Contest from the Faith, Love, and Hope chapter of RWA. Both were finalists for the novella category of the Carol Award of the American Christian Writers Award (ACFW).

ABOUT THE BOOK:

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

My thoughts:

I'm a big fan of this Quilts of Love line of books and mystery/suspense is one of my favorite genres, so I was really anticipating this latest offering from the series.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and it started out fine (other than the fact that Aunt Susan in a nursing home on the back cover blurb turns into Aunt Kathy in the hospital in the opening scene) and I liked how Tess and Logan seem to connect as patrol partners pretty much from the outset. I also loved seeing the city of St. Augustine through the eyes of the native Tess.

The use of the quilt as part of the clues to the mystery was also a great idea and I especially like how that pulled the story together. Unfortunately, the plot did seem a bit transparent, and the story could have used a bit more polish. But all things considered, if the reader can overlook those two small flaws, then I'm sure they will still enjoy the book.

My sincerest thanks to CFBA and Abingdon Press for generously providing a copy of the book for my honest review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Scraps of Evidence, go HERE.

For the Love of Pete by Debby Mayne

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
For the Love of Pete
(B&H Books - January 15, 2014)
by
Debby Mayne
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Debby Mayne is a best-selling author who has published more than 25 books and novellas, 400 short stories and articles, and devotions for women. She has also worked as managing editor of a national health magazine, product information writer for HSN, a creative writing instructor, and a copy editor and proofreader. Her novel, Love Finds You in Treasure Island, Florida received 4-1/2 stars from RT Book Review, and was named a Top Pick for the month of July. She and her husband Wally have two grown daughters, and live in Palm Harbor, Florida.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Widow Bethany Hanahan is trying in vain to fill an empty heart and an empty nest. The result is a home filled to the brim, but something is still missing. That’s when her new gardening club friends come to the rescue, encouraging her to let go of the past as well as the present clutter –emotional, spiritual, and physical. It’s not long before Bethany is finding friends, not bargains, to fill her days. But has her life become too full for someone like Pete Sprockett, a childhood friend, for whom her romantic feelings are beginning to bloom? Join the quirky, loving community of Bloomfield as they do what they do best – poke their well-meaning noses in and intervene in times of need –in author Debby Mayne’s second novel in what has become a five book series about a community where life is simple and love is real.

My thoughts:

I'm not quite finished with this one yet, but am enjoying it. Stay tuned for my review.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of For the Love of Pete, go HERE.

Songs of the Shenandoah by Michael K Reynolds

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Songs of the Shenandoah
B&H Books (January 1, 2014)

by
Michael Reynolds
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Michael K. Reynolds is a writer with more than two decades of experience in crafting fiction, non-fiction, journalism, copywriting and documentary production. He is the author of a series of Irish historical novels published by B&H Publishing Group. These highly acclaimed books are available in bookstores and libraries across the nation and beyond.

Michael is the writer and producer of an Emmy and Telly award-winning series of documentaries titled, Crystal Darkness. These thirty minute anti-meth films have been heavily promoted and broadcast in cities and states throughout the United States and Mexico. They have been viewed collectedly by more than 10 million people and the message has reached more than 30 million to date.

He also has wide experience as a speaker and on-air personality and has been interviewed on a variety of newspapers, radio stations and televisions networks throughout the nation.

Michael earned his B.A. in Creative Writing from the University of California, San Diego and lives in Reno with his wife and three children. He is active in marketplace, marriage, small group and men’s ministries as a leader and speaker.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

At the onset of the Civil War, Seamus heeds his wife’s wishes to return to her beloved family farm in the South, where he takes a post as chaplain for General Stonewall Jackson’s brigade. As Seamus ministers to the troops, his sister Clare ministers in a different way—by being a powerful voice in the Northern cause toward freeing the slaves. All this while their youngest brother Davin, who became wealthy during the Gold Rush, struggles to find love and identity in a fallen world. It’s a clash of loyalties and beliefs that threaten the entire family, each of them trying to hear God’s encouragement in the midst of the tragedy of war. The dramatic conclusion to the acclaimed Heirs of Ireland Series.

My thoughts:

The Heirs of Ireland is the saga of the Irish clan Hanley and begins as Clare and Seamus come to America to escape the potato famine. Later Caitlin and Davin come, and the four do their best to gain their footing in a new land. From the moment I opened the cover on the first book in this series and closed the final cover of Songs of the Shenandoah, I was captivated. Beautifully written, with a compelling and intricately woven plot as well as a host of characters that felt more like real people than those just written in the pages of a book.

Some of the Hanley siblings find treasure in work and ministry, some in the gold fields of California, but each must make their own way and learn their own lessons to discover that true wealth comes by sharing love and forgiveness to his/her family and fellow man and that reward comes when one stands up for what he/she believes.

One of the things that really stood out to me in Songs of the Shenandoah was the songs themselves, not just Seamus learning about the "songs of the Shenandoah" from Pastor Asa, but of the singing at the church in New York, as well as the music box that Clare receives. I think it made the story all the more moving.

This final book was truly a satisfying conclusion to the Heirs of Ireland series. Any fan of historical sagas, Irish immigration, and the Civil War will want to include it in their future reading.

My thanks to CFBA and B&H Publishing for generously providing a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Songs of the Shenandoah, go HERE.

Tempest's Course by Lynette Sowell

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Tempest's Course
(Abingdon Press - December 17, 2013)

by
Lynette Sowell
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lynette Sowell is an award-winning novelist. Her most recent novel, Tempest’s Course, is part of the Quilts of Love line from Abingdon Press. When Lynette’s not writing, she divides her time between editing medical reports and chasing down news stories for the Copperas Cove Leader-Press. Lynette was born and raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland but makes her home in Coppress Cove, Texas, with her husband and a herd of cats who have them well-trained.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Kelly Frost, a textiles conservator, is invited to the Massachusetts coastal city of New Bedford to restore a 150-year-old Mariner's Compass quilt. But there is one stipulation: she must live and work in Gray House, a former whaling captain's home, where the quilt is stored. There she meets Army veteran Tom Pereira, the caretaker of Gray House, whose heart seems as hard as the rocky Massachusetts coastline. Over the long-lit months as Kelly works to restore the quilt, she and Tom grow closer. And as she reads stories in a daily journal penned by Mary Gray, she learns the secrets of the quilt and Mary's own sad tale of regret. Then Tom learns secrets of his own family's past, and both Tom and Kelly learn they are tied to Gray House in ways they never imagined.

My thoughts:

I really enjoyed this book. Tom and Kelly connect - it's almost as if their troubled spirits communicate with one another. Each knows hardship, which comes from totally different sources, but I think that made them more able to relate with one another. So with a great combination of main characters, the connection those characters, and their commiseration to find victory over their struggles, we find that even though experiences may seem to leave their lives in tatters, nothing is too difficult for God to piece back together.

A bit of history, a bit of contemporary, a bit of romance, a bit of mystery...it all makes for a satisfying read!

My sincerest thanks to CFBA and Abingdon Press for generously providing a copy for review.

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