The Golden Braid

We know that in the movies that there have been untold remakes of those famous fairy tales we have read when we were a children, often times with a darker twist to them. But often there comes a great author who can reweave the tale better than the original and Melanie Dickerson has brilliantly done just that in The Golden Braid. Don't be deceived that just because you may have read the tale of Rapunzel when you were a child and can pass this one up. Trust me, it is well worth your time and for me, I believe this is far better than the original version.

The Golden Braid is the retelling of the story of Rapunzel, the girl with the long hair, but in this case, she lives a reclusive life with her mother moving from town to town, when men seem to be interested in possible marriage to her. So while she tries to remain as hidden as possible, she finds solace in painting vines, animals and flowers on the walls of whatever home, they can find. Her mother, makes a living wherever she goes as a midwife, but is always careful to remind Rapunzel to keep her hair covered and to avoid men at all costs. They are not to be trusted, are only interested in breaking her heart and have nothing to offer her.

On their way to the town of Hagenheim, they are attacked by some robbers on the road, and it's only through a well thought of prayer, that help arrives in the form of Sir Gerek, a knight from the city. He comes to their aid before anything can happen to the two women, and Rapunzel is drawn to his kindness and bravery, even though her mother is spiteful and bitter despite being saved by his efforts. He offers to accompany them to town to ensure their safety despite harsh protests from the mother. Yet when an unexpected thunderstorm spooks Sir Gerek's horse, and subsequently falls on him, his leg and arm are broken. Now it is the woman who come to his rescue as his prisoner's attempt to take Sir Gerek's life. It is only through quick thinking and Rapunzel's skill with throwing knives that the men are stopped and instead take the opportunity to run. Thankfully a monastery is nearby where they can care for Sir Gerek, and Rapunzel's true desire is found. Someone who can teach her to read, but not if her mother has anything to do with it.

I received The Golden Braid by Melanie Dickerson compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of this novel, in exchange for an honest review. I love when authors choose to write from a strong female character's perspective and in this case, Rapunzel while she might be young, she is forward thinking and by has an innocence that appeals to the reader. She isn't those fairy tale woman characters who needed to be rescued, and often times can take care of herself and those around her more than most give her credit for. For me, this one really sold the series and I can't wait to go back and add more from Melanie Dickerson to my personal library This is the second novel in the Medieval Fairy Tale Romance Series and for me easily a 5 out of 5 stars. This is the kind of fairy tale I would share with my daughters!

For more information about The Golden Braid, Melanie Dickerson or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Golden Braid by Melanie Dickerson

You can find Melanie Dickerson on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Golden Braid, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour page. 

Through Waters Deep

One of the things I most enjoy when reading any novel from Sarah Sundin, is her attention to detail and keeping the accuracy of her historical novels genuine. Some of my favorite have been her WWII novels and Through Waters Deep is the debut novel in the Waves of Freedom Series. It takes me back a bit in my own life as we see the main character, Mary Stirling, a Boston Navy Yard secretary referencing her love of Nancy Drew novels growing up. I too, was a girl detective at heart. Mary's ability as a secretary is the perfect skill she needs not only to complete her job but while she is taking reports, she is also talking with the men who are working on the building of our Navy's fleet. It seems that at the launch of their latest vessel, the champagne bottle used to celebrate the official launch was tampered with, and instead was filled with gasoline.

Mary was the first to notice that something was amiss with the bottle's appearance, but her boss thought nothing of it. However, she feels that her tasks at walking around the navy yard gives her access to the men who work there, and she is bound and determine to use everything she has to discover if there is a saboteur in their midst as the nation prepares for war. What she doesn't expect to discover is that her childhood friend from school, Jim Avery has grown up and had now enlisted to serve as navy officer in charge of escorting British convoys across the North Atlantic. Jim feels there is no chance of any chemistry since he usually goes for the bubbly blonde type not the quiet reserved brunette that is Mary.

But the more time they spend together as Jim waits for the USS Atwood to be prepared for deployment oversees, they begin to realize that they have more feelings for one another than they had hoped for. Only they realize it just as Jim is about to be shipped out. Will they have a second chance at seeing where those feelings might develop if given the opportunity or will the sabotage take a toil on one of their lives before love has a chance to gain hold?

I received Through Deep Waters by Sarah Sundin compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Revell Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of the book for my honest review and the opinions are strictly my own. I love the story of these two characters that come together after some time, to see how they have each grown in different ways. Not like an Officer and a Gentlemen, this one felt real to me as both of my parents served in the Navy and subsequently fell in love much like these two do without solving a mystery along the way. Perhaps that is why I could relate to this one so much and saw these characters taking the place of my own parents in a different time from the past. Absolutely LOVED it and well worth all 5 out of 5 naval stars in my book. At the conclusion of the novel are some notes from Sarah about the story as well as some group discussion questions.

For more information about Through Deep Waters, Sarah Sundin or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Through Deep Waters by Sarah Sundin

You can find Sarah Sundin on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

For more reviews of Through Deep Waters, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.


strong>Dive into Sarah Sundin's explosive new series, Waves of Freedom, with book one, Through Waters Deep. When evidence of sabotage on the Atwood is found, Jim and Mary must work together to uncover the culprit. A bewildering maze of suspects emerges, and Mary is dismayed to find that even someone close to her is under suspicion. With the increasing pressure, Jim and Mary find that many new challenges–and dangers–await them in the midst of their budding romance.

Join Sarah in celebrating the release of Through Waters Deep by entering to win an Anchors Aweigh prize pack!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Through Waters Deep
• A nautical tote bag
• A set of compass rose notecards
• A "Hope Anchors the Soul" journal
• A Boston Tea Party earl grey tea set
• A Through Waters Deep apron
• A set of nautical tea towels

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on August 24th. The winner will be announced August 25th on Sarah's blog.

A Sapphire Season

Who doesn't love a great novel of a romantic love that simply can not be because of circumstances that prevent the two ill fated from becoming a couple? Much like a Jane Austen novel right? One of my favorites being Pride and Prejudice. In A Sapphire Season, from author Lynn Morris, we get a sneak peek into the lives of Lady Mirabella Tirel who is searching for just the right prospective suitor now that she is of age. Never does she ever consider the feelings of her close friend, Sir Giles Knyvet, her childhood friend because that is not a match that either her parents or even Giles for that matter would consider. But the heart knows what the heart wants, and as much as it pains Sir Giles, he must take a back seat and do what he can to ensure that Mirabella finds just the right man in her life, wishing that is was him instead.

Soon the two childhood friends find themselves pulled in opposite directions as three possible suitors appear on the horizon with the hopes of catching Mirabella's heart, while Sir Giles can only stand by the sidelines and watch. He on the other hand has to deal with an outstanding debt of his own family and thus the reason why he can not pursue Mirabella. It is something that demands his full attention if he is to ever have any hope of convincing her to marry him instead, but will he have enough time to right matters before Mirabella makes a decision over whom to marry. Now that she is turning twenty- two, Mirabella knows if she doesn't find someone soon, her hopes for finding a successful match will simply be out of the question. No one will want to marry her if she continues to wait any longer.

Since having her heart broken once before, she has long given up hope that one can ever hope to marry for love, so she hopes that if she can find a suitable match, she might learn to love the man she marries one day. This comes at a time, where society and social standing is what is important and even though Mirabella's parents support her choices, they also have to do what is best based on the time period in which this novel is written, a far different one from the world women have today.

I received A Sapphire Season by Lynn Morris compliments of Faith Words. a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest opinion. I did not receive any monetary compensation outside a copy of this novel for my honest review and the opinions expressed are simply my own. Fans of traditional regencies will love this novel. It was a first for me from author Lynn Morris and I look forward to more novels from her in the near future. In my opinion I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars and even fans of Dowtown Abbey would enjoy this one as well! There is a group reading guide at the conclusion which is perfect for book groups!

For more information about A Sapphire Season, Lynn Morris or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

A Sapphire Season by Lynn Morris

You can find Faith Words on Facebook to stay up to date on all their latest novels.

To read more reviews on A Sapphire Season, please visit Faith Word's website.

The Dancing Master

For me, the ear marks of a great novel is when the author truly takes the time to create a story and characters you can relate to and care about. One that doesn't worry about how many pages are in the novel as long as the storyline they thought through is conveyed in the manner they hoped. One that doesn't spend a lot of time in the build up of the novel only to rush through it quickly in a hurried breath at the end. Julie Klassen is that author.

Being a huge fan of traditional regency novels and television series like Downton Abbey, I love the look back in time when men were truly gallant and women were cherished and treated like ladies. If they were interested in one another, a chaperone was sent along as they spent time getting to know one another through walks in the garden or in carriage rides. This is one of those very heartwarming and hold your breath novels. One you will know from the very beginning you've reached something you won't want to rush through because when it does end, you'll be sad. Sad that it's over and you'll have to wait for more to come in the near future. I've been fortunate to read all of Julie Klassen's novels and this one is a masterpiece.

Julia Midwinter is the only daughter of Amelia Midwinter, one of the richest women in the town of Beaworthy. She is not at a loss of handsome suitors although none of them have caught her eye in the way of falling in love like she dreamed. She has fun practicing the art of flirting whenever the opportunity presents itself but finds life rather boring without balls or social outings one would find in London. Since her mother presides over the town and it's parish, dancing and balls have been banned. There is no law on the books but since the death of her Uncle, the entire town has gone along with request. If only Julia could get her to explain the reasons why, but her mother remains tight lipped about why.

However when a stranger moves to town along with his mother and sister, Julia's interest is more than sparked. She finds a man that will challenge even her boldest moves. He refuses to treat her with anything less than the respect a lady deserves even if it means he has to walk away most times. Alec Valcourt has moved in with his uncle along with his mother and sister to find a way to support themselves now that their father has left them. Alec only hopes that as a Dancing and Fencing Master, he might provide the finances that would allow them to find a  home of their own. But when Alec learns that dancing is banned in the town of Beaworthy, he finds his dreams are as lost as his family. How will he be able to provide for his family if he has no skills to do so? How will he be able to provide for any women he falls in love with if he has no hope for a future at anything? Will there be a time to restore dancing in the town of Beaworthy again?

I received The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen compliments of Bethany House Publishers and Litfuse Book Tours for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own. I tried delaying the end of this novel as long as I could but somehow like all great things it has to come to an end. My only hope is that Julie Klassen has something else brewing very soon in the future. There simply hasn't been a book of hers I haven't fallen head over heels in love with. Fans of Jane Austen, Downton Abbey or traditional regency fans will LOVE this novel and is why I can easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. There is even a discussion guide at the end that is excellent for book groups to utilize.

For more information about The Dancing Master, Julie Klassen or where to pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen 

You can find Julie Klassen on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

 To read more reviews on The Dancing Master from the TLC Book Tour, please click here. 


Best-selling author Julie Klassen will be hosting a Kindle Fire HDX giveaway and a live webcast event (1/23) to celebrate the release of her latest novel, The Dancing Master. Enter and RSVP today!

 
  One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on January 23rd. Winner will be announced at the "All Things Jane (from Austen to Eyre)" Live Webcast Event on January 23rd. Connect with Julie for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Julie will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books, Jane Austen DVDs, fun "Jane" merchandise, and gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of The Dancing Master and join Julie and friends on the evening of January 23rd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by signing up for a reminder. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 23rd!

The Anniversary Waltz

Woo Hoo! The best part of finding new authors is like finding a real treasure, especially when the story is so good you want to share it with every single person you can find. That's just what I discovered when I opened the pages of The Anniversary Waltz by Darrel Nelson in his debut novel.

This is such a heartwarming story for lovers of history, World War II, the underdogs of the world and just pure romance told in a way only a seasoned writer would know how and that's what makes this one so splendid. Because it's Darrel's first, but it seems as though he has honed the talents of what makes Nicholas Sparks and Andy Andrews novels work so well in the hearts of women everywhere. A great story!

This one encapsulates two different time periods, 2006 and 1946. In the opening chapter, we are immediately drawn into the Anniversary party for Elizabeth and Adam Carlson, celebrating sixty years of happiness and love among family and friends. Then the story takes us back to where it all began for them as most timeless love stories will.

Here we see Adam Carlson as a returning war hero coming home from World War 2. It's hard coming back because you are sure how you will be received. His mother is waiting to hug him and tell him how much he's been missed, but his father isn't there. He is still carrying a grudge and anger from when Adam announced his intentions of joining the war efforts and leaving his mother and father to manage the family farm until he's returned four years later. You'd think his father would be happy to see him home alive instead of the sixteen others from his home town in Reunion, Montana that died while serving their country.

Adam has to work to heal that rift between him and his father and he begins by immediately setting to work repairing the farm that has fallen into disrepair. Only he soon learns that the farm has fallen into foreclosure and it will be sold in a matter of weeks at an auction. Adam tries everything he can to work with the officer at the bank, Nathan Roberts, an old friend from school. But it seems time has changed their relationship as well. Nathan has been climbing the corporate ladder and making himself rich in the process when a heart murmur kept him home from the war. He is unwilling to work with Adam at all.

Adam soon learns that Nathan's competitiveness runs further along than just business matters when Elizabeth Baxter, his girlfriend, seems to have an eye for Adam and his easy going ways over Nathan's demands. Adam takes the advice from Elizabeth to see her uncle, the mayor, to see if they can find a loophole to save the family farm. This is where the story takes an interesting turn and the book really engages the reader.

Darrel Nelson transports the reader back to a difficult time as soldiers were returning home from the war and towns were trying to find ways to recover from depression as well. It takes you back to simple times when friends and neighbors remember how to come together and find workable solutions. For me, this book was like a mix of It's A Wonderful Life when George and Mary were much older and trying to find a way to make it in their world despite all the difficulties happening in their day. This creates such loveable and real characters you can't help but all in love with and root for the entire way through the book.

In doing so, Darrel created so many moments, I had to stop reading and share them with my husband. These are those "Ah" moments that show how relationships are truly meant to be, with lots of hard work, dedication and laughs along the journey. This one I know will completely capture your heart. If you are a lover of historical romance books, or just a hopeful romantic at heart. I know you will LOVE this one!

I received this book compliments of Glass Roads Public Relations for my honest review and HIGHLY recommend this one. This book for me was a mix of The Notebook and It's A Wonderful Life magically blended together to form an outstanding and timeless classic love story! This is one, I know, I will read again and again and share with anyone who is looking for those incredible books that completely leave your breathless but with a smile on your heart. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and can't wait to add Darrel's novels to my permanent library. Look for his next book, The Return of Cassandra Todd due out in 2013 and one that will be on my MUST read list!

For more information on The Anniversary Waltz, Darrel Nelson, and where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the link below:

The Anniversary Waltz by Darrel Nelson

The Anniversary Waltz

Woo Hoo! The best part of finding new authors is like finding a real treasure, especially when the story is so good you want to share it with every single person you can find. That's just what I discovered when I opened the pages of The Anniversary Waltz by Darrel Nelson in his debut novel.

This is such a heartwarming story for lovers of history, World War II, the underdogs of the world and just pure romance told in a way only a seasoned writer would know how and that's what makes this one so splendid. Because it's Darrel's first, but it seems as though he has honed the talents of what makes Nicholas Sparks and Andy Andrews novels work so well in the hearts of women everywhere. A great story!

This one encapsulates two different time periods, 2006 and 1946. In the opening chapter, we are immediately drawn into the Anniversary party for Elizabeth and Adam Carlson, celebrating sixty years of happiness and love among family and friends. Then the story takes us back to where it all began for them as most timeless love stories will.

Here we see Adam Carlson as a returning war hero coming home from World War 2. It's hard coming back because you are sure how you will be received. His mother is waiting to hug him and tell him how much he's been missed, but his father isn't there. He is still carrying a grudge and anger from when Adam announced his intentions of joining the war efforts and leaving his mother and father to manage the family farm until he's returned four years later. You'd think his father would be happy to see him home alive instead of the sixteen others from his home town in Reunion, Montana that died while serving their country.

Adam has to work to heal that rift between him and his father and he begins by immediately setting to work repairing the farm that has fallen into disrepair. Only he soon learns that the farm has fallen into foreclosure and it will be sold in a matter of weeks at an auction. Adam tries everything he can to work with the officer at the bank, Nathan Roberts, an old friend from school. But it seems time has changed their relationship as well. Nathan has been climbing the corporate ladder and making himself rich in the process when a heart murmur kept him home from the war. He is unwilling to work with Adam at all.

Adam soon learns that Nathan's competitiveness runs further along than just business matters when Elizabeth Baxter, his girlfriend, seems to have an eye for Adam and his easy going ways over Nathan's demands. Adam takes the advice from Elizabeth to see her uncle, the mayor, to see if they can find a loophole to save the family farm. This is where the story takes an interesting turn and the book really engages the reader.

Darrel Nelson transports the reader back to a difficult time as soldiers were returning home from the war and towns were trying to find ways to recover from depression as well. It takes you back to simple times when friends and neighbors remember how to come together and find workable solutions. For me, this book was like a mix of It's A Wonderful Life when George and Mary were much older and trying to find a way to make it in their world despite all the difficulties happening in their day. This creates such loveable and real characters you can't help but all in love with and root for the entire way through the book.

In doing so, Darrel created so many moments, I had to stop reading and share them with my husband. These are those "Ah" moments that show how relationships are truly meant to be, with lots of hard work, dedication and laughs along the journey. This one I know will completely capture your heart. If you are a lover of historical romance books, or just a hopeful romantic at heart. I know you will LOVE this one!

I received this book compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and HIGHLY recommend this one. This book for me was a mix of The Notebook and It's A Wonderful Life magically blended together to form an outstanding and timeless classic love story! This is one, I know, I will read again and again and share with anyone who is looking for those incredible books that completely leave your breathless but with a smile on your heart. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and can't wait to add Darrel's novels to my permanent library. Look for his next book, The Return of Cassandra Todd due out in 2013 and one that will be on my MUST read list!

For more information on The Anniversary Waltz, Darrel Nelson, and where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

The Anniversary Waltz by Darrel Nelson

You can also follow more of this book tour and get a first chapter glimpse into this wonderful novel by clicking here.

The Girl In The Gatehouse

Mariah Aubrey has come back to her distant relatives home after her father has sent her away. Her Aunt Francesca Prin-Hallsey has allowed her to stay in the estates gatehouse that is no longer in use along with her companion Miss Dixon.

Feeling a bit like an outcast at the start when her carriages arrives, her aunt refuses to greet her arrival. Forced to pay for the repairs for broken and missing windows, and the general upkeep of getting the gatehouse in living order, Mariah and Dixon begin work immediately.

When her aunt calls for her one day, she learns that she is in failing health, but wants to make sure that the chest her Aunt has her keep remains locked and removed from the estate until after her death. Seems her step son, Hugh Prin-Hallsey believes Francesca is selling off his mothers personal effects without his consent or knowledge.

This comes at a time when women were expected to be well bred and well mannered in all affairs, and when Mariah agrees to keep the chest locked away in the attic of the gatehouse, the mystery of it's contents begins.

Mariah herself has quite a few mysteries of her own, and it's not until the estate is leased out to a former Sea Captain that things begin to take an unexpected twist.

In the novel, The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen, we are taken back to the days of long forgotten romance and to the era of such great novels like Jane Austin. Where women are beautiful and captivating and men once more become the heroes of their dreams. Set in September in 1813, we are held captive by the words that Julie Klassen uses to tell the story of Mariah Aubrey, an unpublished author of romance novels who herself carries a dark past. The best part of this novel, is how she doesn't unravel the pieces of the mystery until almost the conclusion of the book itself, keeping the reader on the each of her seat and rooting for Mariah's true love and happiness no matter what the cost.

I received this lovely novel compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and anyone who is a fan of Jane Austin or any books from the Regency period, this one will steal your heart with a 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information on the author, the book and even a first chapter glimpse, then click on the links below:

The Girl In The Gatehouse by Julie Klassen

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Girl in the Gatehouse Bethany House (January 1, 2011) by Julie Klassen
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Julie says: My background is in advertising and marketing, but I am blessed with a dream job—working as an editor of Christian fiction. I have been writing since childhood, but Lady of Milkweed Manor was my first novel. It was a finalist for a Christy Award and won second place in the Inspirational Reader's Choice Awards. My second novel, The Apothecary's Daughter, was a finalist in the ACFW Book of the Year awards. I am currently writing one novel a year.

I graduated from the University of Illinois and enjoy travel, research, BBC period dramas, long hikes, short naps, and coffee with friends.

My husband and I have two sons and live near St. Paul, Minnesota.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Miss Mariah Aubrey, banished after a scandal, hides herself away in a long-abandoned gatehouse on the far edge of a distant relative's estate. There, she supports herself and her loyal servant the only way she knows how--by writing novels in secret.

Captain Matthew Bryant, returning to England successful and wealthy after the Napoleonic wars, leases an impressive estate from a cash-poor nobleman, determined to show the society beauty who once rejected him what a colossal mistake she made.

When he discovers an old gatehouse on the property, he is immediately intrigued by its striking young inhabitant and sets out to uncover her identity, and her past. But the more he learns about her, the more he realizes he must distance himself. Falling in love with an outcast would ruin his well-laid plans. The old gatehouse holds secrets of its own. Can Mariah and Captain Bryant uncover them before the cunning heir to the estate buries them forever?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Girl in the Gatehouse, go HERE

The Preacher's Bride

Elizabeth Whitbread had her life planned out ahead of her. Being as plain as she was in comparison to her beautiful and much younger sisters, she was happy to have any man interested in her much less engaged to her. Even though he wasn't much to look at, perhaps in time she could grow to love him. Not many other men would even glance her way.

John Costin tragedy would alter his life in more ways than one when his wife dies delivering their youngest son. Yet with no one to wet nurse him, Thomas' fate wasn't much better than his mother's. When Elizabeth Whitbread locates Lucy, a poor but willing mother to offer extra milk to feed Thomas, it seems like an ideal plan. Little does Elizabeth understand that not all women make suitable wet nurses for families of higher standing in the community. It seems like Ms. Grew has the final say in most matters when it comes to the women of Bedfordshire, yet Elizabeth isn't about to let her have the final say.

When Vicar Burton suggest that Elizabeth offer housekeeping service to John Costin for the summer until suitable arrangements can be made, Elizabeth feels it's God's calling on her life to step up and do the right thing, even though her fiancee' Samuel Muddle isn't at all happy about her spending time with another man and his children.

It isn't until a stranger shows up at the Costin home when John is away, that their lives all about to change. When he threatens to spread rumors of Elizabeth being more than a housekeeper for John unless she provides him with information as to what John Costin has been preaching about, she will ultimately pay in more ways than one.

I received the book, The Preacher's Bride by Jody Hedlund, compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. This one rates a pure 5 out of 5 stars. Not only are the characters believable, once again we have a strong female role model who isn't afraid to stand her ground even against all the odds. I loved this book and highly recommend it. For more information about this book, the author and where to get a first chapter glimpse, please read on:

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Preacher's Bride Bethany House; Original edition (October 1, 2010) by Jody Hedlund
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jody has written novels for the last 16 years (with a hiatus when her children were young. In May of 2009 she double-finaled in the Genesis contest, a national fiction-writing contest for unpublished writers, sponsored by American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW.Shortly after the final, Jody acquired an agent, Rachelle Gardner of Word Serve Literary. Her agent spent the summer of 2009 working on selling her books. In September of that year, Jody signed a three-book deal with Bethany House Publishers. Jody’s debut novel, The Preacher’s Bride, releases in Oct. 2010. Her next book will release in 2011 and a third in 2012.


ABOUT THE BOOK

In 1650s England, a young Puritan maiden is on a mission to save the baby of her newly widowed preacher--whether her assistance is wanted or not. Always ready to help those in need, Elizabeth ignores John's protests of her aid. She's even willing to risk her lone marriage prospect to help the little family. Yet Elizabeth's new role as nanny takes a dangerous turn when John's boldness from the pulpit makes him a target of political and religious leaders. As the preacher's enemies become desperate to silence him, they draw Elizabeth into a deadly web of deception. Finding herself in more danger than she ever bargained for, she's more determined than ever to save the child--and man--she's come to love.

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

While We're Far Apart

Brooklyn, New York ~ September 1943

Just like so many other young men, Eddie Schaffer feels it's his duty to enlist to do his part to help in the effort to fight the war currently going on in Europe. What he doesn't expect is his mother's reaction to the news. She is more than upset and when she refuses to care for his children, Eddie is just about out of options.

His wife, Rachel died and he's having a difficult time trying to carry on with life as he knew it with memories of her everywhere and feels he needs a change of scenery. His children don't want their father to die in the war so they aren't happy with his decision either. They certainly don't want to stay with their grandmother, who know has made it obvious she doesn't want them.

"I'll do it!" calls a voice from the backyard. It's Penny, a childhood friend that has known Eddie her whole life. She willing volunteers to watch his kids while he completes basic training as she has been in love with Eddie her whole life. The children, Ester and Peter don't want Penny watching them either, but she offers to stay at their home so the children don't have to leave their school and home. Eddie agrees and a week later he's off to basic training.

Penny's parents are less than thrilled when she tells them her plans and they do all they can to discourage and belittle her efforts. They remind her she is moving into a Jewish neighborhood and nothing good can come from that. Penny's lived her whole life in fear of never being good enough for her parents so she leaves anyway. Penny believes that God is giving her a second chance and thinks if she cares for Eddie children, he will fall in love with her as well.

Penny meets the landlord, Mr. Jacob Mendel, a Jewish man who is bitter and resentful of his life since his wife died as well with Rachel. He blames God for not answering his prayers and while his only son, daughter in law and grandchild remain missing in Hungary, he has no hope left.

Will Penny be able to mend all the torn lives in the people she meets or will she accept the words of her parents that she is a complete failure at anything in life?

In the book, While We're Far Apart by Lynn Austin, you are taken through the many lives of the people who are affected by the war and how each one of them finds a way to cope. I received this book, compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and gave it a 5 out of 5 stars. This is a great novel about faith and restoration in the midst of one of the hardest times in the world during WW2.

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

While We're Far Apart

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing While We're Far Apart Bethany House (October 1, 2010) by Lynn Austin

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.

Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published twelve novels. Five of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In an unassuming apartment building in Brooklyn, New York, three lives intersect as the reality of war invades each aspect of their lives. Young Esther is heartbroken when her father decides to enlist in the army shortly after the death of her mother.

Penny Goodrich has been in love with Eddie Shaffer for as long as she can remember; now that Eddie's wife is dead, Penny feels she has been given a second chance and offers to care for his children in the hope that he will finally notice her and marry her after the war.

And elderly Mr. Mendel, the landlord, waits for the war to end to hear what has happened to his son trapped in war-torn Hungary. But during the long, endless wait for victory overseas, life on the home front will go from bad to worse.

Yet these characters will find themselves growing and changing in ways they never expected--and ultimately discovering truths about God's love...even when He is silent.

If you would like to read the first chapter of While We're Far Apart, go HERE.

In Every Heartbeat - Review

Imagine growing up most of your life in an orphanage? Imagine that each time parents came looking for a child to adopt, you were not the one that they were looking for?

For Elisabet Conley this was her life. She spent time growing up in an orphanage at a time when most people came looking for strapping young boys that they could put to work, so hers was a time spent lonely and searching in desperation for a place to fit in. She did when she made friends with Bennett Martin and Pete Leidig, both boys in the same place as her, friends she made in the orphanage.

Pete Leidig is a cripple missing a leg that was ran over by a trolley when his parents needed money and sent him out to sell papers. Now missing a leg, his parents didn't know what to do with him so they had him sent to the orphanage as a way of solving a problem.

Bennett Martin is a muscle bound boy whose hopes and dreams in life is finally finding a place to fit in. He has always had a fondness for Elisabet or Libby as the boys have affectionately named her. Yet her caring and compassion seem to be only for Pete. Perhaps she feels overly protective of him due to his injury.

Yet when all three find themselves in the same college thanks to the orphanage sponsoring all three, each one has a goal in life to seek. For Libby it's becoming a writer, Pete wants to be a minister and Bennett, wants to join a fraternity and just have fun.

Just how will the trio survive the challenges that each will face in light of the coming World War. Will they seek what they hope to find or will this be the force that drives them apart? Find out by reading Kim Vogel Sawyer's latest novel, In Every Heartbeat

I received this amazing book compliments of Bethany House Publishers for my honest review and would rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars. This book is available in hardcover, paperback and eBook formats. For more information on this book, the author and where to purchase a copy, click on the title below:

In Every Heartbeat

The Vigilante's Bride

Emily McCarthy has just learned that the orphanage she has been with for as long as she can remember is having her shipped to Montana as an answer to an ad for a mail order bride for a wealthy rancher named Bart Axel.

Only being 18, she is told that her prospects of finding a man where she is currently is slim at best and seeing as she would most likely be well cared for by Mr. Axel the arrangements for her trip have already been made.

Bart Axel is a very wealthy rancher, but not an honest one. He's made most of his money swindling honest people out of their land, cattle and anything else in order to make a buck and gain the potential for making even more money if the railroad decides to buy the rights to the land. He's even been accused of killing his last wife, but no one has been able to prove that except to say the "accident" seems suspicious. However when he learns he is about to gain an 18 year old wife, he is more than content with his latest conquest.

Luke Sullivan has spent most of his life as an orphan being raised by Miss Molly. Now for the past few years he has joined Grant Stuarts vigilance committee in order to keep law and order on the open ranges. Whenever cattle is stolen or breaking the law occurs, the committee is the one to deal the swift hand of justice. When Luke Sullivan learns that his family had been swindled out of the land in a bad game of cards, courtesy of Bart Axel, Luke is going to settle the score once and for all.
Upon seeing Axle's banker in Montana taking his latest "treasure" back to the ranch, Luke finds that this is the time to settle the score. However when he learns that the "treasure" is the mail order bride for Bart Axel on the stage, he isn't about to let this one go.

I received the book, The Vigilante's Bride by Yvonne Harris, compliments of Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. This was such a great western romance book for me to read. I loved getting to know the characters Ms. Harris brings to life on the pages of her latest novel. This one will not disappoint readers. I would rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars for the way the story draws you in from the first page.

For more information about this book, the author and where to purchase a copy, click on the link below:

The Vigilante's Bride