Finding The Light of Jesus - Giveaway and Review

In today's world we are constantly battling against the effects of stress and work overload in our personal and professional lives. Often times finding that balance between family and work can be difficult to see at times.

In the newest book by Cindy Tuttle, Finding the Light of Jesus, she takes the reader through how to get past the day to day stresses that overwhelm us to the point of exhaustion and depression. In each chapter Cindy opens with a prayer outlining a particular situation we may find ourselves faced with. She discussed the details of what we may be experiencing and what our thoughts may sound like. She then takes the reader through an activity to cause some reflection on their own lives to see how they can implement some positive change. Finally in closing the chapters, she ends it with a wonderful prayer.

Some of the chapters deal with the business of life and stress; believing the false myths of our culture that would have us believe that we need to strive for more; examining our day to see how negative thinking can impact the beginnings of our day; asking ourselves, "What do you desire?"; and finally how do you feel about your life.

The book also contains a section on various prayers and daily reflections that deal with stress, forgiveness, fear, being overwhelmed, jealously, misunderstandings, and anger. There is even a 30-day prayer plan to help put your life back on its spiritual track.

I received this book compliments of Hamby Media for my honest review and can definitely see where this resource could be valuable to so many readers. I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars. For more information on this book, the author and where to purchase a copy of the book, simply click on the title below:

Finding the Light of Jesus

Thanks to Hamby Media, they are offering a copy of the book to one lucky reader of this blog. Here are your guidelines for the giveaway:

1. You must be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart.

2. You must be a resident of the US and No P.O. Boxes please.

3. I need a way to contact you if you are the lucky winner, so please include your email address in the comment box. You can use the (at) and (dot) words instead of the symbols.

4. Leave me a comment and let me know why you'd love to win a copy. The giveaway will end on December 8th. I will notify the winner via email after that date.

Emily of Deep Valley

There are certain books that are defined as classics for a reason.

These are the books that you read more than once and often times read to your children as they grow to love and appreciate books.

Emily of Deep Valley by Mitali Perkins and Maud Hart Lovelace is one such timeless classic. This takes place in the early 1900's at a time where life was a whole lot different than it is today. I think that is what defines it to me as a classic. As I read this novel I was immediately reminded of Turner Classic Movies. This book fits the genre of such like

Emily Webster is an orphan living with her grandfather, who is 81. A former soldier of the war on Gettysburg, he often has lapses in his memory often asking Emily the same questions again after already asking them. She is the model of elegance, simply answering them as if it were the first time hearing them. She takes care of her grandfather ensuring that he has something to eat. If not for her, all he would eat is milk and bread.

Emily's best friend is Annette who is the belle of the ball so to speak. She has the best of everything from custom designed dresses, the boys are all fond of her, and she is the most popular of the girls. The interesting thing about Emily is she isn't jealous or envious of Annette. She merely sees it as a chance to see the other side of life.

She has an innocent view of life and desires better things for herself upon graduation from high school. She dreams of college and all the possibilities that it would offer her, but she lacks the financial means to make that happen. Even though her grandfather cares for her financial, Emily isn't about to ask. She is an honor student and dreams of changing the world. Just how she does that is contained within the beautiful written and illustrated pages of this book.

I received this book, compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I have to say I loved it. It takes you back to the time period of It's A Wonderful Life and the Baileys. Where faith and love are the foundations that make us what we are and define our character not the things that money can buy. I would rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars and it now has a permanent part in our home library and one I can't wait to read to my children and grandchildren as well.

For more information on this book, the author, and where to get a first chapter peek, please read on.

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Emily of Deep Valley Harper Perennial Modern Classics; Reprint edition (October 12, 2010) by Mitali Perkins
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from Mitali: Who In The World Is Mitali Perkins?

That's a good question. I've been trying to figure it out myself, spending most of my life crossing borders.

I was born Mitali Bose in Kolkata (Calcutta), India, and always tried to live up to my name—which means “friendly” in the Bangla language. I had to! Because my family moved so much, it was the only way I could make new friends.

By the time I was 11, I'd lived in Ghana, Cameroon, London, New York and Mexico before settling in California just in time for middle school. Yep, I was the new kid again, in seventh grade, the year everybody barely makes it through.

My biggest lifeline during those early years was story. Books were my rock, my stability, my safe place as I navigated the border between California suburbia and the Bengali culture of my traditional home.

After studying political science at Stanford and public policy at U.C. Berkeley, I taught in middle school, high school and college. When I began to write fiction, my protagonists were often—not surprisingly—strong female characters trying to bridge different cultures.

Mitali Perkins is the author of several books for young people, including SECRET KEEPER (Random House), MONSOON SUMMER (Random House), RICKSHAW GIRL (Charlesbridge), and the FIRST DAUGHTER books (Dutton).

ABOUT THE BOOK

Often cited as Maud Hart Lovelace’s (of Betsy-Tacy fame) best novel, Emily of Deep Valley is now back in print, with a new foreword by acclaimed young adult author Mitali Perkins and new archival material about the characters’ real lives.

Emily Webster, an orphan living with her grandfather, is not like the other girls her age in Deep Valley, Minnesota. The gulf between Emily and her classmates widens even more when they graduate from Deep Valley High School in 1912. Emily longs to go off to college with everyone else, but she can’t leave her grandfather. Emily resigns herself to facing a “lost winter,” but soon decides to stop feeling sorry for herself. And with a new program of study, a growing interest in the Syrian community, and a handsome new teacher at the high school to fill her days, Emily gains more than she ever dreamed...

In addition to her beloved Betsy-Tracy books, Maud Hart Lovelace wrote three more stories set in the fictional town of Deep Valley: Winona’s Pony Cart, Carney’s House Party and Emily of Deep Valley. Longtime fans and new readers alike will be delighted to find the Deep Valley books available again for the first time in many years.

If you would like to browse inside Emily of Deep Valley, go HERE.

Possession

We've all moved at some point in our lives. It becomes the experience we all dread. We hate the packing up of boxes and then trying to bribe friends and family members to help us load the rental truck. So many of us wish we could just hire a moving company to pack it all up, load it up, deliver it and unpack the boxes into our homes, yet few can afford to do it.

The one thing you need to remember is to read the contract including the fine print of every page. Otherwise you may just wind up like detective Vance Graegan, who decides its time to retire from the D.C. police force after a very difficult sniper case and follow his wife's dream to open a deli. She is after all been a successful caterer and Vance longs for a much simpler lifestyle. So what could be easier than to hire a moving company. They show up and pack everything up as required and make sure that Vance has signed his contract.

After that it's simply time to meet them in California at their new home, only when Vance arrives in California, he's about to discover that reading that fine print may just cost him more than the possessions in the moving truck after the driver begins to blackmail him. Mere coincidence? You'll have to read the book, Possession by Rene Gutteridge to find out.

I received this book compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review and beginning with the prologue, this one had me hooked until the very end. Now I am off to find other novels by Rene Gutteridge. She is a very talented author using our own personal experiences of the things we all deal with, to get us emotionally involved in the storyline and characters. Loved it and hands down rate this a 5 out of 5 stars. I may never opt to use a moving company again after reading this one.

For more information on this book, the author and where to purchase a copy of this amazing, Christian, suspense thriller, click on the link below:

Possession by Rene Gutteridge

The Life Book

In today’s divisive culture-war society, when news stories about separation of church and state thrive with controversy, one cutting-edge Christian ministry is having remarkable success spreading the Word of God. What makes it remarkable? They are doing it by distributing Bibles in public schools—legally.

Carl Blunt is the president and CEO of The Life Book Movement, a Christian mission centered on Blunt’s own contemporary, youth-oriented edition of a portion of the Bible called The Life Book, a unique presentation of Scripture designed to engage high school students with the truth of God’s Word. The Life Book presents a brief overview of the Old Testament and the Book of John using an interactive format with honest student comments and real-life questions in the margins. Readers are drawn into the only story that can change their lives forever.

Founded by The Gideons International as an innovative strategy to reach high school students with God’s Word, The Life Book Movement works in collaboration with churches throughout the country to provide the books for free to high school students. Blunt’s organization brilliantly threads a separation-of-church-and-state loophole by getting his publication into the hands of Christian high school students and having them pass the books out to classmates at school—a practice that is entirely legal, as long as the books are not distributed by school staff or other adults. Blunt says, “It’s like we’re helping students smuggle God’s Word into a closed country (public high schools) to reach an unreached people group because studies show that only 4% of today’s teenagers are Bible-believing Christians.” The goal is to ensure that every student in every high school in the United States has an opportunity to receive the gift of The Life Book. This approach presents a phenomenal opportunity to impact a generation with the good news of Jesus Christ.

The Life Book Movement is best described to students as a week-long mission trip to their local high school. Local churches work together in targeted areas to ensure The Life Book is offered to every student in each chosen high school. All churches involved receive the books at no cost from The Life Book Movement and provide the books, along with some evangelism training, to the students in their youth groups. The students then spend a week passing them out to their friends and classmates at school. One student who received the book said, “I got one today. I read it in almost every class today. I like it. It’s pretty neat and other people asked to look at it and then asked where to get one.”

Flying under the radar since its inception last fall, The Life Book Movement is rapidly closing in on distribution of more than 300,000 copies in public high schools across 21 states and even the British Virgin Islands. A quiet success, indeed, but extremely ambitious, The Life Book Movement has an ultimate goal of distributing The Life Book to nearly 18 million high school students when all is said and done. And, so far, the outlook is extremely promising.



My Review:

This is such an incredible tool for any high school student to use to encourage others to take a glance at the Bible. It's small enough to put in your pocket, looks innocent enough to spark interest and loves all the notes from the teens and adults throughout the book that encourage some very interesting conversations among students.

I had my daughter who is a senior in High School look at it and her favorite part is how convenient it is to carry with you and yet doesn't look like your ordinary Bible. I can see this as a great witnessing tool with Bible groups everywhere.

I received The Life Book by Carl Blunt compliments of B & B Media Group for my honest review and must say it rates a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. It's about 4 inches by 4 inches and paperback. For more information on this book, the author and where to get a copy for yourself, click on the link below:

The Life Book by Carl Blunt

You can also follow Carl Blunt on Facebook and Twitter by clicking on the links below:

Facebook

Twitter

Barely A Lady Giveaway and Review

He can't remember...

Olivia Grace has every reason to despise Jack Wyndham, Earl of Gracechurch, who scandalously married and then divorced her, ruining her completely. Yet when she finds an injured Jack on a battlefield wearing the enemy's uniform, she can't resist saving him. He might have broken her heart, but an he truly be a traitor?

What she'll never forget...

When Jack awakes he is shocked to discover that he lost Olivia's love - and much of his memory. Did he really destroy their marriage? And what do his dreams of blood-soaked French uniforms and revenge mean? As the noose of danger tightens around them, Jack and Olivia must determine which is most frightening: the threat of the hangman, their own tempestuous history, or the passion that flares between them once again. (excerpt from rear cover).

Barely A Lady by Eileen Dreyer, is a story of how true love can overcome any obstacle. How a matter of trust can mean so much and hurt even more when betrayed. A story of passions that run so deep they're sure to make your blood sizzle. Oh, and they say that Love is Blind, well in this case it's the Lovers are Blind to what is sitting right in front of their noses.

Olivia Grace has been on the run for five years hiding from her ex-husband and his family. Under a simple ruse right out in plain sight Olivia has found her salvation but for how long? You would think being in such a beautiful place as Belgium would be perfect under the circumstances. A beautiful city besieged with tourist's but also on the verge of war, you would think that there is much to much going on to be noticed.

Jack Wyndham, Earl of Gracechurch has had more than his share of action. Being a Golden Boy with an ego bigger than England itself, how could he not find his way into trouble. It's not until he is found by Olivia on Belgium soil half dead and with no memory that makes things get slicey and dicey for the Earl. Can he be saved from death's grim grip? Will he ever get back the memories that got him into this place in the first place and will Olivia ever be able to forgive all the wrongs that have been done to her by this cad?

This is a delightful story with twists and turns, secrets abound and more mysteries to be solved that will never let you put the book down until devoured. I can tell you this much, expect to get very angry with Jack and his family for what they have done to Olivia. Actually, it's quite easy to be angry just for the injustices that were placed on women in the time period let alone anything else.

I received this book compliments of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review and would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars. This is book one in the Drake Rakes series. If you would like more information on this book, the author and where to get a sneak peek at the first chapter, click on the link below:

Barely A Lady

The generous folks at Hachette Book Group are allowing me to host this book giveaway for three (3) copies!

• Winners are restricted to the US and Canada. No PO Box mailing address please. Be a follower of Reviews From The Heart.
  

• I must have a way of contacting you, so be sure to leave your email address in your comment.

• Some choose to omit the @ sign and the . dot by writing it in "code" like this: you (at) your email (dot)com.

• I'll close the comments December 4th and pick the three winners. I will contact the winners via email to get their mailing information. The winners will have 5 days to respond. If I do not hear from them within three days, I will select another winner(s).

Review - Glade's Winter Collection

Now that it's officially Black Friday and all of us are out there shopping, I found a great product I had to share with all of you compliments of being a BzzAgent as well as from Glade.

Being a lover of candles, I was so excited to try Glade's new Winter Collection in Apple Cinnamon, my favorite scents not just at the holidays but anytime. I got the candle to try and immediately had to light it. Not only was the glass jar decorated with cute white reindeer's but the size of the candle made placing it anywhere reasonable. Too often the bigger candles take up so much room, but these personal sized ones take up less space and still offer the same fragrance power of the larger ones.

My family commented on just how warm and cozy our home smelled after lighting it. It truly did offer a comforting feeling just watching the flicker of the flame and the dance of the reindeer stencils that appear on the area surrounding the candle. Because I thoroughly enjoyed it so much, it ran out after a few days of extended use, but off I went to purchase new ones.

I have used them in our kitchen, bathrooms during Thanksgiving and next to my bedroom for some fragrance while settling in for the night. Glades' Winter collection comes in three great fragrances guaranteed to please everyone's taste, from Apple Cinnamon, Bayberry Spice, French Vanilla, Sugar Plum, Chocolate Cherry, Baked Magic, and Peppermint Crush.

Not only do these come in candles but also in plug in oils, and room sprays to suit your every need. I would highly recommend this product and if you sign up for Glade's Right At Home, you receive some great coupons to try the product. I give this one a 5 out of 5 stars!

Divine Appointments

Josie Brooks doesn't have the easiest job in the world. She spends it traveling from city to city, company to company streamlining companies and unfortunately that means lay offs of employees, no matter how valuable they may be. Her job means not getting personally involved with anyone she comes across and that makes her job all the more easier to do. However it also means that she doesn't have any friends anywhere.

Her only contact has been her family as she places her weekly calls to them telling them where she is living at now and to see how everyone is doing. Even that doesn't offer the satisfaction she has been hoping for.

Yet when she finds herself working in Chicago, she finds herself suddenly affected by those she has to let go. Barb, one of the longest working employees is also the most loved employee by those in the company and when word gets out that Barb is the next to go, Josie finds herself with a target on her back.

When she returns home she is immediately drawn to a mystical snow globe that offers a peaceful green meadow along with a flowing and refreshing river that magically seems to really move. Will this lead her to see things are more than what appears on the companies bottom line and sometimes down-sizing isn't the right thing to do?

To find out, you'll have to check out the latest novel by Charlene Baumbich, Divine Appointments. This book really draws you in emotionally with each character that interacts with Josie and lets you have a personal attachment with each of them in a unique way. I received this book, compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and easily rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about the book, the author and even a first chapter peek then read on:

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Divine Appointments WaterBrook Press; Reprint edition (September 21, 2010) by Charlene Baumbich
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Charlene Ann Baumbich is the author of the previous three books in the Partonville series. A popular speaker, journalist, and author, for several years she has lectured to women’s groups and retreats. Baumbich is also an award-winning journalist whose work has appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Today’s Christian Woman, and numerous other publications. She is the author of six nonfiction books of humor and inspiration.

Charlene says: For over two decades of writing and speaking, my passionate pursuit to entertain and rejuvenate using humor (I love to laugh-especially at myself), uncommon wisdom, and passionate insights has been affirmed through countless calls, letters, and evaluation sheets. A reader recently e-mailed, "There is so much depression and sadness in this world. I applaud you for reminding all of us to treasure the moments in our lives, and for encouraging us to find joy in the little things. What you do helps so many to rise above the heaviness of life and live, and laugh, and face another day, so thanks!!!!" That is exactly why I keep doing what I do.

I am a firm believer in the power of story (short or book-length, funny or insightful, real or fiction, on stage or page) to accomplish my purpose, which is to remind you: Don't Miss Your Life! Whether you're tuning into me live or in print, fasten your seatbelt. I promise you a wild, fun, provocative, heart-warming ride.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Josie Brooks, at the age of 47, thought she was leading an enviable single life. A successful consultant, she calls her own shots, goes where the money is, and never needs to compromise. But her precisely managed world begins to falter during a Chicago contract when an economic downturn, a bleeding heart boss, and the loyalty and kindness between endangered employees ding her coat of armor.

Throw in hot flashes, a dose of loneliness, a peculiar longing for intimacy, an unquenchable thirst—not to mention a mysterious snow globe with a serene landscape, complete with a flowing river and lush greenery that seems to be beckoning her in—and Josie’s buttoned-up life is on the verge of coming completely undone.

Maybe her solitary existence isn’t as fulfilling as she has convinced herself to believe. It will take a few new friends, a mystical encounter, and an unexpected journey to set Josie on her own path to “right-sizing” and making the life changes that really matter. Filled with laugh-out loud moments and a gentle dash of inspiration, Divine Appointments is another heartwarming charmer from a master storyteller.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Divine Appointments, go HERE.

Squirrel Seek Chipmunk - Giveaway and Review

If animals were more like us, if mice kept pets and toads could swear, if dogs had wives and chipmunks dated, sheep sat still and meditated, then in the forest, field, and dairy you might find this bestiary, read by storks, by rates and kitties.

"I found the book to be most droll," might quip the bear, the owl, and the mole. Others, though, would be more coarse. "Bull,"could say the pig and horse. As to the scribe, they'd quote the hen: "Trust me, he's no La Fontaine."

In the newest book, Squirrel Seek Chipmunk, by David Sedaris, you are taken into our everyday lives as seen by certain animal groups. While the story is interesting to see from another perspective, the reader needs to be forewarned that the book is rather graphic despite its childlike cover. Do not make the mistake of thinking this is a child's book. Due to the explict nature of the storyline, I would rate this book a 2 out of 5 stars.

Some of the story interactions besides a squirrel on a blind date with a chipmunk, are a mouse and snake trying to locate a missing relative, the migrating warblers who talk about immigration and people coming to nest in their neck of the woods, as well as many others.

I received this book compliments of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review and think that this book is for a very select audience of readers. This book is available in hardcover, eBook, Audio, CD and large print formats. For more information on this book, the author and where to purchase a copy for yourself, simply click on the book below:

Squirrel Seek Chipmunk

For one lucky follower of my blog, I am giving away a copy of this book. Here are your guidelines for entering this giveaway:

1. You must be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart.

2. Must be a resident of the US and No P.O. Boxes please.

3. I must have a way to contact you if you are the winner, so please make sure to include your email address in your comment. You can use the words (at) or (dot) instead of the symbols.

4. Leave a comment and tell me why you'd love to win a copy of the book. The giveaway will end on December 1st.

Delilah

We've all heard the story of Samson and Delilah from the Bible, but just recently, India Edghill offers us a unique perspective in her newest novel, Delilah, on just what her life must have been like.

In the opening chapters of this book, we learn what Delilah's childhood was like living in the palace serving under the gods of the time and learning all she could to become a priestess in the temple of Atargatis, one of Five Cities that ruled Caanan. She spends her life growing up under the watchful eyes of the high priestess Derceto, who sees her as a valuable pawn in her political agenda.

While in the hills of Caanan, the Israelites choose Samson to lead their fight against the Five Cities. When Samson catches a glimpse of Delilah, he is ready to risk his freedom to marry her, and Derceto seizes the chance to have Samson at her mercy. In this detailed retelling of the Biblical tale, we see a more intimate relationship between the characters of Samson and Delilah that may have led each to their climatic end as we know it.

I received this book compliments of Picador Publishers for my honest review and once again being a lover of these Biblical tales, I love it when authors take it a step further and involve us in the daily lives of these characters. India Edghill does an exceptional job at showing readers what life in those times would have been like for any girl and the difficult choices both parents and children had to make in those days. This is a 5 star book.

This book is available in paperback, hardcover and eBook formats. For more information on this book, the author and where to purchase a copy of this book, click on the title link below:

Delilah by India Edghill

The Lightkeeper's Bride

The Lightkeeper's Bride is the very first book I have read by Colleen Coble and I must say that she is an amazing writer. I admired her use of dialogue and the placement of her characters in a 1920s setting. The book moves along at a quick pace and Coble doesn't stop to dwell on one particular situation; there's always some new adventure on every page and she keeps her readers wanting more.

In this historical/ romance/ suspense novel, a young woman by the name of Katie Russell (main character) loves working as a telephone operator in Mercy Falls, California. Since her family isn't exactly what you might call "well off", Katie is expected to marry well and her family arranges an engagement to a wealthy man named Batholomew Foster. He may not have been what Katie pictured in the man of her dreams, but she knows that her engagement to Bartholomew will secure a strong financial future for her as well as her family.

One night, while Katie is working the phone lines, she overhears a frightening conversation between her friend Eliza and a familiar male voice. Katie tells the constable about what she heard right away, but when she gets to Eliza's house, she discovers that Eliza has gone missing, leaving only her infant child.

Katie believes the least she can do is take care of Eliza's little girl until they find her, only to discover that the lightkeeper has offered to take her. Katie doesn't trust this lightkeeper because he has become a suspect in Eliza's disappearance. He is so set on taking care of the child, though that Katie reluctantly gives him the child and finds herself helping him. Her finance Bartholomew does not like this arrangement at all, but it is out of his hands. Katie and the lightkeeper begin to investigate Eliza's disappearance on their own, which only draws them closer together. It becomes a dangerous situation because not only is Eliza's life on the line but also Katie's heart.

I received this book, The Lightkeeper's Bride by Colleen Coble compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and would have to rate this book at 5 out of 5 stars. For more information on the book, the author and where to purchase a copy, please read below:

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Lightkeeper's Bride Thomas Nelson (October 19, 2010) by Colleen Coble
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Author Colleen Coble’s thirty-five novels and novellas have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Romance Writers of America prestigious RITA, the Holt Medallion, the ACFW Book of the Year, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers’ Choice, the Booksellers Best, and the 2009 Best Books of Indiana-Fiction award. She writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail and love begin with a happy ending.

A word from Colleen: God has been faithful, though the path has not been easy. Nothing worth doing is ever easy. God wouldn’t let me give up, and I like to think the struggle made me stronger. God has given me so much in my life, most importantly my great family, a loving church family at New Life Baptist Church, and my wonderful publishing family at Nelson Books.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A thrilling romantic mystery set in the lush Victorian age.

Central Operator Katie Russell's inquisitive ways have just uncovered her parents' plan for her marriage to wealthy bachelor Bartholomew Foster. Her heart is unmoved, but she knows the match will bring her family status and respectability.

Then Katie overhears a phone conversation that makes her uneasy and asks authorities to investigate. But the caller is nowhere to be found. Mysterious connections arise between the caller and a ship lost at sea.

Against propriety, Katie questions the new lighthouse keeper, Will Jesperson. Then a smallpox epidemic forces their quarantine in his lighthouse. Though of low social status, Will's bravery and kindness remove Katie's suspicion and win her love. Katie and Will together work to solve the mystery of the missing girl and the lost ship as God gives the couple the desire of their hearts.

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

Safe Haven

When a mysterious young woman named Katie appears in the small North Carolina town of Southport, her sudden arrival raises questions about her past. Beautiful yet self-effacing, Katie seems determined to avoid forming personal ties until a series of events draws her into two reluctant relationships: one with Alex, a widowed store owner with a kind heart and two young children; and another with her plain single neighbor, Jo. Despite her reservations, Katie slowly begins to let down her guard, putting down roots in the close-knit community and becoming increasingly attached to Alex and his family.

But even as Katie begins to fall in love, she struggles with the dark secret that still haunts and terrifies her...a past that set her on a fearful, shattering journey across the country, to the sheltered oasis of Southport.

With Jo's empathetic and stubborn support, Katie eventually realizes that she must choose between a life of transient safety and one of riskier rewards...and that in the darkest hour, love is the only true safe haven.

In the newest novel, Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks, this time we have a love story with a sinister past waiting in the wings. The story of forgiveness, betrayal, and unfailing love are the ingredients that make this a 5 star book in my opinion. This book was like a blending of the movie Sleeping with the Enemy alongside your classic love never dies storyline and the ending will leave you completely amazed beyond words. What a great ending that I never saw coming!

I received this book compliments of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review and must say to pick this one up for the holidays. It will completely warm your heart! It's available in hardcover, audio, CD, MP3, and eBook formats. For more information on this book, the author and where to purchase a copy of this amazing book, please click on the title below:

Safe Haven

Mend Mark Giveaway and Review

Mend: Verb

to repair something broken
to free from faults of defects
to improve or set right
to restore to working order
to make amends or atonement for

Every scar tells a story; this scar happens to tell the greatest story of all. No matter what your religious background may be, no one can deny the fact that there is no greater love than for one to lay their life down for another. Just as wearing a rubber band around someone's wrist is designed to be a memory aid, this band is intended to be a personal love reminder for your rendering.



The Mend Mark is designed by Hunter Harrison to resemble one of the redemptive scars that Jesus endured for his people. With circular disks positioned at each side of the wrist, the intent is to simulate one of the holes that was instrumental in killing a King. The purpose of bearing this mark is to emphasize the importance of that sacrifice and prompt us to never forget the role that it continuously plays in our lives.

The Mend Mark is making an impact on the lives of people who don't have access to clean drinking water. We can mend that. In an effort to advocate the message of love, a portion of proceeds from every sale will go directly to Living Water International. To learn more about LVI, visit www.water.cc. I received this bracelet to review compliments of B & B Media Group for my honest review. I love it and the way it opens conversations up when people ask about it. What a great way to share the love of God with people everyday. I rate this product a 5 out of 5 stars.

You can also purchase them below:

Order online for $9.99 at www.mendmark.com.

For one lucky follower of my blog, B & B Media has provided a giveaway bracelet. Here are your guidelines:

1. Be a follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart.

2. Become a follower of mine on Facebook, by clicking on my Networked blog links for an extra entry.

3. Follow me on Facebook under my email: Stevenkat27 (at) gmail (dot) com for an extra entry, be sure to let me know who you are or I can't add you.

4. Be a resident of the US and No P.O. Boxes please!

5. I must have a way to contact you so please include your email address in your comment. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of symbols instead.

6. Leave me a comment and let me know why you'd love to win this bracelet. The giveaway will end on November 28th and I will notify the winner via email.

The Narnia Code

Most of you are well aware of the Biblical references made in the movie, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. You have the representation of Jesus in the character of Aslan the lion, who sacrifices his own life for that of Edmund and comes back at the end to rid Narnia of the White Witch and restore the land from it's perpetual winter.

However are there more references to the Bible in the other six books?

In the book, The Narnia Code by Michael Ward, he unlocks the secrets of C.S. Lewis and the secret of the seven heavens through the Chronicle of Narnia books.

I was surprised at all the references I missed in Prince Caspian as well as the up and coming The Voyage of the Dawn Treader this Christmas. What a wonderful mystery that C. S. Lewis wove through his adventures in Narnia for those willing to seek and unlock the treasures within. For example in Prince Caspian, the book is all about war and the tools used in battle much like the spiritual battle that we all must face each day. I completely missed that reference all together.

In this book, you are taken step by step through all seven books by also the reasons why C. S. Lewis wrote the books the way he did. Now this series provides even more opportunity to discuss with my kids what the Biblical references are within each film and book. I received this wonderful book compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review and can tell you it rates 5 out of 5 stars!!

This is a must have resource for anyone who has the series of the Chronicles of Narnia already! It is available in paperback, eBook and DVD formats. For more information on this book, the author and where to purchase a copy for your own, click on the title below:

The Narnia Code

This Is The Moment! Giveaway and Review

Walter Green is a very extraordinary man.

He spent a year of his life taking a "victory lap" to locate all the people who have touched his life so much that is has changed his life for the better.

Too often most of us remember people who have helped us become who we are today through our memories of them, hardly thinking that perhaps by taking some time to personally meet with each of them and tell them just how thankful we are and how they have changed us.

We often wait until that person has died, to offer our words of praise and thankfulness during their eulogy. A time when that person will never hear our words. How much different would that person's life have been if they could have heard how much their actions affected our lives and made them better. How would that make you feel to hear someone thank you for what you did to make their life so much more meaningful.

In the book, This Is The Moment, Walter Green takes his readers first into the reasons behind writing his book and what this years journey will accomplish to him and to the lives of the people he hopes to meet. Second, he shares his conversations that he had recorded when he meet with his "life changers" or shared glimpses into their letters he sent them. Not all of the people in his life were still living so in those cases we see his thoughts in a letter he sent to the surviving family.

In the final section of the book, Walter walks you through taking this step in your own personal life as well and show you how to begin your own personal journey of gratitude to the people who made you, who you are today.

I received this amazing book, one of the best I've read this year, compliments of Planned TV Arts and Walter Green for my honest review. I LOVED IT!I would rate this one a stellar 5 out of 5 thankful stars!!!! I have even started my own personal journey of thanking the people in my life each week through my personal blog, Heart 2 Heart. I think this book can benefit so many people who need to hear our stories of how they really touched us and changed us for the better. It think it's even more a blessing to do that while they are alive and can hear the words from us now rather than us delivering a eulogy during their funeral.

This book is available in hardcover and eBook formats! For more information on this book, the author and where to purchase a copy of the book, click on the link below:

This Is The Moment

You can also visit Walter's blog at This Is The Moment.com/blog

Thanks to the wonderful people at Planned TV Arts and Walter Green, they are offering a giveaway copy of this amazing book to one lucky follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines:

1. You must be a follower of my blog, Reviews of the Heart.

2. You must be a resident of the US and please No P.O. Boxes.

3. I will contact the winner of the giveaway by email, so please include it with your comment. You can use the words (at) or (dot) instead of the symbols.

4. Leave me a comment and let me know why you'd love to win a copy.

5. For an extra chance to win, please link this giveaway or post about it on your blog. Provide the link in your comment.

The giveaway will end on November 27th. What a great way to end the year on a positive note and just think of the difference it will make not only in your life but in the lives of the people you thank.

Get Riveted Contest and Giveaway!!

To commemorate their latest book, Love Finds You In Victory Heights,Washington, and honor our Veteran's Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss are offering an amazing gift basket giveaway on their website.

Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington, shares the riveting story of Rosalie Matthews, a brave young woman who worked as a B-17 Bomber riveter during World War II. While Rosalie's story is fictional, US history is bursting with real heroines and heroes whose service and sacrifice gave us the freedom we enjoy today.

The Winner of our GET RIVETED by VICTORY HEIGHTS giveaway will receive a fantastic Rosie the Riveter Prize Package, including:

*Rosie the Riveter Puzzle

*Songs that Got Us There CD

*Rosies in B-17 Photo Card

*Retro Rosie box with mints

*Vintage Boeing postcard

*Rosie Metal Water Bottle

*Rosie T-shirt

*B-17 Keychain

*Rosie mini-magnets

*Rosie Tote

You can click here to go the website to enter to win. The winner will be announced on December 1st on their website.I am closing comments so you can visit the site directly to win. I know you'll love this one

Sun Stand Still

I had a great opportunity to be profoundly touched by a great book that I just read called Sun Stand Still. In a nutshell it teaches all of us believers that we can ask impossible things from God and share the belief that He will come through for us.

So many of us simply pray for what we would like to see happen but we lack the confidence in truly believing whether or not that would actually happen. What about asking God for something as impossible for us, like making the sun stand still in the sky? Sound a little on the prayer extreme??

Well that is exactly what Joshua prayed for and with no doubts that God couldn't do it, or if He wanted to...no Joshua spoke it and believed with his whole heart, that God would follow through.

Joshua 10:12 " O sun, stand still of Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon."

What happened next? We'll God extended the day for Joshua so he could eliminate his enemies as they ran for the cover of darkness hoping to get away.

In the book, Sun Stand Still, Steven Furtick teaches believers a simple truth, "If you're not daring to believe God for the impossible, you're sleeping through some of the best parts of your Christian life!"

He teaches you to have "audacious" faith, as any Christian believer should be made of. When you live this way, you'll discover that faith isn't just a Get Out Of Hell Free card. It's the most vital building block of your relationship with God. In this book, he teaches you to expand on your existing faith in a whole new way. In a life changing way! In a way that will show you through many stories how God is still making the miraculous and impossible happen right before our eyes.

I received this amazing book, compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah for my honest review and believe that every Christian should get a copy of this, pastors should begin Bible Studies on this and marriages should pray Sun Stand Still prayers over their partners and families! I would rate this one a stellar 5 out of 5 stars. This book is available in paperback, eBook and CD formats.

For more information on this amazing book, author and where to purchase a copy of this book, click on the title below:

Sun Stand Still

You can also visit Steven's website at www.sunstandstill.org for more information.

The Silent Order

What happens when you mix a story of mystery and crime alongside a bit of Amish romance?

You have the perfect ingredients for a new novel, The Silent Order by Melanie Dobson!!!

In this action packed thriller, you are taken back to the late 1920's at a time when the Prohibition period was going on. Italian mobster families were in competition to see who could make the most money selling corn sugar to make alcohol. Only like all good old fashion mob style books, one family will always be trying to take out the other.

It's been Rollin Wells, a detective for the Cleveland police force whose primary goal has been to eliminate both the Cardano's and the Puglisi's and once again make the streets of Cleveland safe once more. However when the love of his life, Liz Cardano is murdered, revenge seems to be his motive now over justice.

Katie Lehman and her 9 year old son, Henry have loved living in the quiet Amish town of Sugarcreek for quite some time. Her latest problem has been dealing with Jonas Miller and his recent proposal of marriage. She isn't quite sure that marrying him is the ideal reason for someone to get married but thinks he would make a great father for Henry.

However one day when visiting her friend Ruth, they discover something in Ruth's barn that will weave the lives of Katie and Rollin together and uncover some secrets in both of their lives that have remained hidden for too long.

I received this wonderful novel compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. This is a first for me blending a Mafia crime scenario along side your traditional Amish romance but it worked out very well. With Melanie Dobson doing such an extensive bit of research into both of this storylines, you have a well mixed masterpiece and one that anyone would love to read. This one is a perfect 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information on this book, the author and even a first chapter peek, then you will want to read on!!

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Silent Order Summerside Press (November 1, 2010)by Melanie Dobson
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Melanie Dobson is the award-winning author of The Black Cloister; Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana; and Together for Good.

Prior to launching Dobson Media Group in 1999, Melanie was the corporate publicity manager at Focus on the Family where she was responsible for the publicity of events, products, films, and TV specials. Melanie received her undergraduate degree in journalism from Liberty University and her master's degree in communication from Regent University. She has worked in the fields of publicity and journalism for fifteen years including two years as a publicist for The Family Channel.

Melanie and her husband, Jon, met in Colorado Springs in 1997 at Vanguard Church. Jon works in the field of computer animation. Since they've been married, the Dobsons have relocated numerous times including stints in Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Colorado, Berlin, and Southern California. These days they are enjoying their new home in the Pacific Northwest.

Jon and Melanie have adopted their two daughters —Karly (6) and Kinzel (5). When Melanie isn't writing or entertaining their girls, she enjoys exploring ghost towns and dusty back roads, traveling, hiking, line dancing, and reading inspirational fiction.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Rural America - 1928. After the murder of his partner, Detective Rollin Wells hides away in an Amish home near Sugarcreek, Ohio, to find out who in the police force is

collaborating with Cleveland’s notorious mob. While Rollin searches for answers to his partner’s death, he befriends an elusive young Amish woman named Katie and her young son. As Rollin learns about Katie’s past, he’s shocked at the secret Katie is hiding - a secret that has haunted Rollin for eight years.



If you would like to read the first chapter of The Silent Order, go HERE.

Long Time Coming

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Long Time Coming Abingdon Press (November 1, 2010) by Vanessa Miller ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Vanessa Miller of Dayton, Ohio, is a best-selling author, playwright, and motivational speaker. Her stage productions include: Get You Some Business, Don’t Turn Your Back on God, and Can’t You Hear Them Crying. Vanessa is currently in the process of turning the novels in the Rain Series into stage productions.

Vanessa has been writing since she was a young child. When she wasn’t writing poetry, short stories, stage plays and novels, reading great books consumed her free time. However, it wasn’t until she committed her life to the Lord in 1994 that she realized all gifts and anointing come from God. She then set out to write redemption stories that glorify God.

To date, Vanessa has completed the Rain and Storm Series. She is currently working on the Forsaken series, Second Chance at Love series and a single title, Long Time Coming. Vanessa believes that each book will touch readers across the country in a special way. It is, after all, her God-given destiny to write and produce plays and novels that bring deliverance to God’s people. These books have received rave reviews, winning Best Christian Fiction Awards and topping numerous Bestseller’s lists.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Two women from different worlds find hope together.

Faithful Christian Deidre Clark-Morris is a professional career-minded woman with a loving husband, but no children. Kenisha Smalls has lived in poverty all her life. She has three children by three different men and has just been diagnosed with inoperable cervical cancer.

While the meeting between these two women appears accidental, it becomes their catalyst of hope. Neither woman expects the blessing that God has in store for her. While Deidre will guide Kenisha on the path to eternal life with Jesus Christ, Kenisha will teach Deidre how to stand strong against the hard-knocks of life.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Long Time Coming, go HERE

Watch the book video:

Outside The Ordinary World - Giveaway and Review

Is the saying true like mother like daughter?

Sylvia Sandon is hoping that this isn't the case. Remembering back on her not so happy childhood days, she spent many of those years moving from place to place while her father completed his residency program to become a doctor. When they finally did settle down in California they began with a dump of a duplex and along the way upgraded into a custom 5 bedroom home through hard work and her father's eventual graduation of becoming a doctor.

Through her childhood she remembers her mother, Elaine and her "secret friend," Mr. Robert that would take her and her sister for cream sodas while visiting her mother. They were told never to mention this times to her father and even after moving away to California, Mr. Robert told Elaine he would find her no matter where she went.

Sure enough, years later one afternoon at a church potluck, Mr. Robert walked back into her mothers life pretending like nothing had happened at all along the way. Even though it appeared to her that her mother spent countless nights and days alone waiting on her father, she didn't seem like the kind to cheat and she certainly had no plans to follow in her mothers footsteps.

Now that she is grown, married and has children of her own, Sylvia is beginning to walk those very same footprints as her mother. At a local coffee shop one day, her daughter Emmie accidently spills coffee on a younger man named Tai and she finds herself agreeing to meet him again for coffee if only to sell him another one of her painted landscapes. Will she wind up exactly like her mom?

In the book, Outside the Ordinary World by Dori Ostermiller, the reader is transported back and forth in Sylvia's memories from present day to childhood and see just how her path parallels her mothers along the way. This book shows the effects that infidelity can have on the entire family and not just between the couple involved.

I received this book from TLC Book Tours for my honest review and even as a Christian, I found the book honest as it portrays the self-destruction that can come from illicit affairs among married couples and not like the happily ever after version that Hollywood would have us come to believe. I think most readers would find this book a great read to be able to see things from a different perspective and see just how affairs begin with the innocent offers of coffee. I chose to give this book a 5 out of 5 stars for it's ability to show things from both sides of the fence.

For more information on this book, the author and where to get a copy of the book, please click on the link below:

Outside the Ordinary World

Thanks to the generosity of TLC Book Tours and the Dori Ostermiller, they are offering a giveaway copy to one lucky follower of my blog. Here are your guidelines:

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart.

2. You must be a resident of the US or Canada with No P.O. Boxes please.

3. I must have a way to contact via email, so please include it with your comments. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols.

4. Leave a comment why you'd love to win a copy of this book and let me know how you found me! The giveaway will end on November 24th and I will notify the winner by email.

Uncertain Heart

Sarah McCabe knows exactly what she wants...but what does God want for her?

The year is 1886 and Sarah McCabe has wanderlust. In an effort to become independent of her family back in Missouri, she accepts a governess position in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, giving her a firsthand taste of the life she has always desired - a life of luxury, culture, and social privilege.

Richard Navis is a man determined to finish his indentureship to Captain Brian Sinclair and take over his family's farm. But when he falls in love with Sarah, his homesteading goals blur. She doesn't seem interested in settling down. What's more, Richard fears she's fallen victim to the captain's charm and persuasion.

When Sarah's reputation is questioned, Richard devises a bold plan in hopes of protecting her. But is he too late? Has Sara already made her choice?

In Uncertain Heart, Andrea Boeshaar continues the dramatic saga of the McCabe family that she began in Unwilling Warrior.

My Review:

Andrea Boeshaar's second novel in the Series of Redemption, captivated readers once more in Uncertain Heart. Following up with the character of Sarah from Unwilling Warrior, Sarah leaves her family in Jericho Junction and sets out to find her own independence in Wisconsin. She applies as the governess for Captain Brian Sinclair but when she arrives, she isn't expected even though she has the letter from the Captain.

Seeing the damsel in distress in a new city, Richard Navis, comes to her rescue and occupies her time until the Captain can straighten the mess out with his household staff. Richard is more than impressed with Sarah as she can defend herself quite well in his verbal quips with her, being the youngest of the family and with three older brothers to her credit. He finds her most refreshing. However once Sarah is settled as the governess, Richard can't seem to get her off his mind and finds himself running more errands just so their paths meet each day. Will Sarah come to love him as much as he is falling for her or will she return to Missouri at the close of the summer like she planned?

I received this wonderful novel from Glass Roads Public Relations for my honest review and after loving the first book as a personal favorite, this one is just as rewarding. I would rate it a 5 out of 5 stars for the romantic story woven with the strong and independent character of Sarah McCabe and all the delightful characters we meet throughout the story. Even the children are charming as we meet each of them through Sarah's time as their governess and see how she heals each of their hearts.

For more information about this book, the author and where you can purchase a copy, please click on the title below:

Uncertain Heart

You can also visit Andrea Boeshaar's website by clicking here.

Cross Fire Giveaway and Review

The Mastermind is back, and he's about to destroy everything - and everyone Alex Cross loves.

Wedding Bells Ring: Detective Alex Cross and Bree Stone's wedding plans are put on hold when Alex is called to the scene of the perfectly executed assassination of two of Washington, DC's most corrupt: a dirty congressman and an underhanded lobbyist. Next, the elusive gunman begins picking off other crooked insiders, sparking a blaze of theories - is the marksman a hero or a vigilante?

A Murderer Returns: The case explodes, and the FBI assigns Agent Max Siegel to the investigation. As Alex and Max battle over jurisdiction, the murders continue. It becomes clear that thee killings are the work of a professional who has detailed knowledge of his victims' movements - information that only a Washington insider could possess.

Caught In A Lethal Cross Fire: As Alex contends with the sniper, Siegel, and the wedding, he receives a call from his deadliest adversary, Kyle Craig. The Mastermind is in DC and will not relent until he had eliminated Cross and his family for good. With a supercharged blend of action, deception, and suspense, Cross Fire is James Patterson's most visceral and exciting Alex Cross novel ever.

My Review:

Another excellent page turning novel that literally has you on the edge of your seat til the very end. I saw this novel as a blend between the movie Face Off with John Travolta and Nicholas Cage and a great episode of Criminal Minds. The character of Kyle Craig, goes to the greatest lengths possible to devise an ending to Alex Cross and his family and leaves you wondering how it will all play out in the end.

I received this book compliments of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review and once more James Patterson does not disappoint. This is book number 17 in the series and I would rate this book a perfect 5 out of 5 stars for another perfect crime and suspense thriller. This book is available in Hardcover, eBook, CD and large print formats. For more information on this book, the author and a first chapter peek, click on the title below:

Cross Fire

Thanks to Hachette Book Groups who has provided giveaway copies for three lucky followers of my blog and here are your guidelines:

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews of the Heart.

2. Be a resident of the US or Canada or simply have an address within the US or Canada that it can be shipped to and please NO P.O. Boxes!

3. I must have a way to contact you via email if you are one of the lucky winners, so please be sure to include it in your comments. You can use the words (at) or (dot) instead of the symbols.

4. Please leave a comment and simply tell me why you'd love to win the book. The giveaway will end on November 22nd. I will notify all winners by email at that time.

Hell's Corner

Since 9/11 some people wonder just how protected our country is against another terrorist attack here in the United States. We have even created the Division of Homeland Security just for that purpose. Yet what if those that are claiming to be our allies, really are our enemies just using us to gain a way into the United States to once more find a way to bring havoc to our country and make people run in fear again.

In the fifth latest novel by David Baldacci, Hell's Corner brings back the agent Oliver Stone and the Camel Club for those that are follower's of his other books. This time Agent Stone is looking to clear his name before he can accept the Medal of Honor the President of the United States wants to award him. He can't in good faith do that just yet. When the President assigns him a new mission, to locate a Russian drug cartel operating in Mexico with terrorist ties to gain access to the United States, he willingly takes this case.

When the British Prime Minister is here visiting with the President and an attempt to assassinate him takes place within Lafayette Park just across from the White House, things aren't at all what they appear to be.

I received this wonderful suspense filled novel compliments of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review and have to say I was left spell bound and holding my breath on so many chapters. Just when I think I have it figured out, I am left guessing once more. This book had more twists that a roller coaster! This is a blend of Mission Impossible along with The Bourne Identity. If you love books along those lines then this is a must read for you. I rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars.

This book is available in hardcover, eBook, and CD formats. For more information on this book, the author and where to get a first chapter peek, click on the title below:

Hell's Corner

Amy Inspired

I think as a writer there are often times where we find ourselves wondering if our talents are just more of a hobby than the promise of something more, especially when we are anxiously waiting to become published.

Amy Gallagher is such the aspiring, young thirty year old writer whose dream it is to someday have something she has written become published, whether it's a magazine article or perhaps even something larger like a book. Amy finds herself surrounded by a group of similar friends who are also writers like herself, one if her roommate Zoe, who is popular, beautiful and at no loss for available men who are interested in dating her. Zoe also has no problem getting whatever she has submitted to companies published. This more than frustrates Amy who keeps all her rejection letters systematically organized in a folder.

Amy begins to wonder if there is more to life than simply teacher college students about the art of writing when she herself can't seem to get published. She asks the question to her students in class one day, is there a benefit to writing, if no one wants to read it? She is more than shocked by the replies she receives from her students. Her social life outside of hanging out with a few friends is miserably lacking that is, until Zoe's Christian duties bring a friend home who needs a temporary place to stay, with them.

I received the book Amy Inspired by Bethany Pierce compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance in return for my honest review. While this book is interesting, it does take some time to get going and any struggling writer is sure to relate to this novel in more ways than one. I would rate this book a 4 out of 5 stars. For more information regarding this book, the author and where to get a first chapter peek, please read on further:

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Amy Inspired Bethany House; Original edition (October 1, 2010) by Bethany Pierce
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

After completing a master's in Creative Writing and working as a visiting instructor at Miami University in Ohio, Bethany Pierce now lives with her husband in Charlottesville, Virginia, where she is a member of the McGuffey Art Center and continues to write. Her first book, Feeling for Bones, was one of Publishers Weekly's Best Books of 2007.



ABOUT THE BOOK

With rejections piling up, she could use just a little inspiration...

Amy Gallagher is an aspiring writer who, after countless rejections, has settled for a career as an English professor in small-town Ohio just to pay the bills. All her dreams suddenly start to unravel as rejections pile up--both from publishers and her boyfriend.

But just as Amy fears her life is stuck in a holding pattern, she meets the mysterious, attractive, and unavailable Eli. She struggles to walk the fine line between friendship and something more with Eli, even as staying true to her faith becomes unexpectedly complicated.

When secrets, tragedy, and poor decisions cause rifts in Amy's relationships, she must come to terms with who she's become, her unrealized aspirations for her life, and the state of her faith. Can she dare to hope that she will find love and fulfillment despite it all?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Amy Inspired, go HERE.