Friday, August 31, 2012

The Haven (Stoney Ridge Seasons Book 2) By Suzanne Woods Fisher

I received this book from Litfuse Publicity Group for no charge for my honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own!


Book Description:

When Sadie Lapp steps off the bus in Stoney Ridge after being in Ohio for the winter, she is faced with a decision–one that goes against her very essence. Yet it’s the only way she can think of to protect a loved one.
Schoolteacher Gideon Smucker has been crazy about Sadie since boyhood. But his response to her surprising decision undermines his own reputation–and his relationship with Sadie.
College student Will Stoltz is spending the spring at the Lapp farm as a guard for a pair of nesting Peregrine Falcons–courtesy of the Lancaster County Game Warden. Will needs to get his life back on track, but his growing friendship with Sadie threatens his plans.
The lives of these three individuals intertwine, and then unravel as unexpected twists create ripples through the town of Stoney Ridge . . . and through Sadie’s heart.
Once again, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher intrigues and delights with a story that explores the bonds of friendship, family, and true love. Readers will enjoy every surprise in Sadie’s story as they search for the truth hidden within these pages.


My Thoughts:


The Haven is the second book in The Stoney Ridge Seasons series by Suzanne Woods Fisher. Those that know me I am a HUGE fan of Amish Fiction and Suzanne Woods Fisher and The Haven did NOT disappoint!  I enjoyed the first book from this series so I was very excited to have the opportunity to read the next one.  In The Haven we get to come back to spend time with the Lapp family again.  Suzanne Woods Fisher writes a beautiful story full of love,laughter, and family. The character in her story are captivating and so real that they truly feel like friends. I found myself laughing and crying with the Lapp Family again in this book.   Suzanne Woods Fisher writes with authority about the ways of the Amish, Ohio, bird watching, and the ins and outs of protecting endangered birds.  I found myself pulled into this story from the start. This story has so much to offer and leaves you wanting more.  She writes of the importance of prayer, faith and hope in God's Plan. She focuses on self esteem in one's self, forgiveness and repentance. Then there is the big issue of gossiping and the the damage and pain it has on everyone. I truly enjoyed this latest book in this series and look forward to the rest. If you are a fan of Amish Fiction, I highly recommend this book and this series.

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

A Plain Death: An Appleseed Creek Mystery By Amanda Flower

I received this e-book from B & H Publishing Group through NetGalley.Com for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this e-book.  The opinions expressed here are my own.


Book Description:

Welcome to Appleseed Creek, the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country, where life is not as serene as it seems.

While her Cleveland friends relocated to Southern California and Italy, 24-year-old computer whiz Chloe Humphrey moves with some uncertainty to Appleseed Creek to direct technology services at a nearby college. Her first acquaintance is Becky, an ex-Amish teenager looking for a new home.

While driving Chloe’s car, Becky collides with a buggy, killing an Amish elder. But what looks like an accident is soon labeled murder when police discover the car’s cut brake line.

Now, Chloe must take on the role of amateur sleuth to discover who the real intended victim was before the murderer makes a second attempt. Becky’s handsome Amish-turned-Mennonite brother, Timothy, a local carpenter, comes in handy along the way. With God’s help, they’ll solve the mystery that’s rocking this small community.



My Thoughts:

A Plain Death is the first book in The Appleseed Creek Mystery series by Amanda Flower. This is the first book by Amanda Flower I have had the pleasure of reading.  When I saw this book that had my two favorite genres: Amish Fiction and Mysteries I had to read it. In the first couple pages of this book the action starts and continues to the end.  A Plain Death is a fast paced book that grabs hold all the way to the end.  Amanda Flower writes with authority on the Amish, Mennonites, and Ohio's Amish country.  Amanda Flower's passion for the Amish genre shines through in her writing.  The characters are great. a myriad of true characters that find strength and peace in their faith.  The dialogue between the characters was fantastic. I found myself laughing out loud in quite a few parts especially parts of the story that include Grandpa Zook.  The writing in this book truly made you feel like you are there watching everything unfold. So I have another author to add to my list of must read.  If you are a fan of Amish Fiction you should check out this book, you will not be disappointed.

Monday, August 20, 2012

The Forgiven Duke: A Forgotten Castles Novel Book 2 By Jamie Carie

I received this e-book from  B & H Publishing Group through NetGalley.com for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this e-book. The opinions expressed here are my own!



Book Description:

 Tethered by her impulsive promise to marry Lord John Lemon - the path of least resistance - Alexandria Featherstone sets off toward Iceland in search of her parents with a leaden heart. A glimpse of her guardian, the Duke of St. Easton - the path less traveled by - on Dublin's shore still haunts her.

Will he come after her? Will he drag her back to London, quelling her mission to rescue her treasure-seeking parents, or might he decide to throw caution to the wind and choose Foy Pour Devoir: "Faith for Duty," the St. Easton motto. The Featherstone motto Valens et Volens: "Willing and Able," beats in her heart and thrums through her veins. She will find her parents and find their love, no matter the cost.


The powerful yet wing-clipped Duke of St. Easton has never known the challenge that has become his life since hearing his ward's name. Alexandria Featherstone will be the life or the death of him. Only time and God's plan will reveal just how much this man can endure for the prize of love.



My Thoughts: 

The Forgiven Duke is the second book of Jamie Carie's series The Forgotten Castles. I had the privilege of reading the first book in this series The Guardian Duke and it was wonderful.  The Forgiven Duke does not disappoint.  The Forgiven Duke starts off right where The Guardian Duke left me hanging.  This story grabbed me from the beginning and held on to me until the end.  Jamie Carie writes with such elegance about Ireland, Iceland, and England that makes you feel like you are right there seeing all of these places right along with the characters.  The characters in The Forgiven Duke are old and new.  The characters are well written and are wonderful. I truly enjoyed Alexandria, The Duke of Easton and Montague. I found myself laughing out loud at parts of the dialogue.  I truly enjoyed this book and if you are a fan of Christian Historical Fiction, I highly recommend this book and this series. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series! 



Sunday, August 19, 2012

Relentless Pursuit (Secrets of Roux River Bayou Book 3) By Kathy Herman

I received this e-book from David C. Cook Publishers through NetGalley.Com for no charge in exchanged for my honest review of this e-book.  The opinions expressed here are my own.


Book Description:

Rich with the Cajun flavors of south Louisiana, this final book in the Secrets of Roux River Bayou Series is a story of what it means to find true peace in an uncertain world.
  
Sax Landry left home at seventeen to escape his father's abuse, leaving his mother and sister to fend for themselves. Now, twenty-eight years later, both parents are dead, and guilt compels him to find his sister and make peace. His search leads to Les Barbes, Louisiana, where authorities fear a bio-terrorist has injected cyanide into juice cartons and fresh produce at the grocery store. People are dead. It's not safe. Sax stays, fearing death less than living another day without peace. A divine appointment is about to change all that forever.


My Thoughts:

Relentless Pursuit is the third and final book in Kathy Herman's Secrets of Roux River Bayou and it does not disappoint. As with the other two books in this series a common theme is forgiveness.  Each story has had an underlying story and the theme was forgiveness.  This book could be read on its own, Kathy Herman does a great job of detailing from the other books without it turning off readers who have read the series.  Relentless Pursuit held my attention until the end and kept me guessing.  The characters are wonderfully written and are real people dealing with real life in imperfect ways.  A lot of the characters have been in all 3 books so it was nice to see how their stories ended. Kathy Herman writes with authority on police work, restaurant services, Les Barbes Louisiana, and all things Cajun. This book is a definite winner.  If you enjoy Christian Suspense Fiction with Southern flair this book is for you!

Submerged (Alaskan Courage Book 1) By Dani Pettrey

I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own!



Book Description:

A sabotaged plane. Two dead deep-water divers.

One single clue.

Bailey Craig vowed never to set foot in Yancey, Alaska, again. She has a past, and a reputation--and Yancey's a town that doesn't forget. She's returned only to bury a loved one killed in the plane crash, but then dark evidence emerges and Bailey's own expertise becomes invaluable for the case.

Cole McKenna can face dangerous rescue dives. He can face the fear a murderer may be threatening his town. But facing the reality of Bailey's reappearance is a tougher challenge. She broke his heart...but doesn't seem to be the same girl who left Yancey ten years ago. And he's not the same guy she left behind.

Racing against the clock and a rising body count, Bailey and Cole must move beyond the hurts of their pasts to work together until the truth of what is hidden in the depths finally surfaces.



My Thoughts:

Submerged (Alaskan Courage Book 1) is Dani Pettrey's debut novel and it is a winner! When I saw the cover and read the description I knew I HAD to have it!  Submerged is a fast paced story that has a little bit of everything in it: Mystery, Romance, History, family relationships and Christian Values.  The characters in this novel are well developed and I really felt like I knew them like friends.  Dani Pettrey gives these characters a real life feel that I could feel myself relating to them.  Dani Pettrey writes with authority on diving, boats, Alaska ,and its history. The setting of this story is written so vividly that I felt like I was right there in the book, taking in the scenery.  This book is hard to put down and it truly kept me guessing until the end.  Dani Pettrey is on my must read list! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense Fiction, it will not disappoint!

Sunday, August 12, 2012

The Orphan King: Book One Merlin's Immortals

I received this book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.


Book Description:

 The future of the Immortals is in the hands of an orphan

My greatest fear was that they would find us and make of us a sacrifice beneath a full moon. Now you, Thomas, must help us destroy the circle of evil.

The last words of a dying woman would change the life of young Thomas. Raised behind monastery walls, he knows nothing of his mysterious past or imminent destiny. But now, in the heart of medieval England, a darkness threatens to strangle truth. An ancient order tightens their ghostly grip on power, creating fear and exiling those who would oppose them. Thomas is determined fulfill his calling and bring light into the mysterious world of the Druids and leaves the monastery on an important quest.

Thomas quickly finds himself in unfamiliar territory, as he must put his faith in unusual companions—a cryptic knight, a child thief, and the beautiful, silent woman whom may not be all she seems. From the solitary life of an orphan, Thomas now finds himself tangled in the roots of both camaraderie and suspicion.

Can he trust those who would join his battle…or will his fears force him to go on alone?



My Thoughts:


The Orphan King is the first book in Sigmund Brouwer's new series The Immortals.  This is my first time reading a book by Sigmund Brouwer and I am glad I had the opportunity to read it. In this story we meet Thomas, an orphan who just turned 18 years old, he has been on his own since his caregiver Sarah passed. Thomas has been living like a slave in an abbey all of this time and is waiting for his chance to to leave. As Thomas adventures out into the world on a secret mission that he believes he is the only one to know about it, he makes his way to the kingdom of Mangus with three other people he does not know, he only knows they are to come with him.

From the start of  The Orphan King the storyline gives the reader a high adventure of action, chivalry, knights, swordplay and danger that will keep the pages flying and the reader wanting more. Sigmund Brouwer writes in such a way that you feel like you are there in the  story witnessing all that is happening around them. As I read this story I truly felt like part of the adventures.  I also enjoyed Sigmund Brower's way of weaving the Christian theme throughout the story. He portrays it with Thomas, who begins as a nonbeliever and through his companions he starts to realize that there can be a God. The Orphan King is classified as a Young Adult book, but as an adult I really did enjoy it. I think that anyone 12 years old and older who enjoy Christian Fiction Fantasy will really enjoy this new series. I look forward to Book Two: Fortress of Mist, coming out in February 2013.

Friday, August 10, 2012

The Choice By Robert Whitlow

I received this book from Litfuse Publicity Group from no charge in exchange for my honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own!


Book Description:

One young woman. Two very different roads. The choice will change everything.

Even as a pregnant, unwed teen in 1974, Sandy Lincoln wanted to do the right thing. But when an ageless woman approached her in a convenience store with a mysterious prophecy and a warning, doing the right thing became even more unclear. She made the best choice she could . . . and has lived with the consequences.

More than thirty years later, a pregnant teen has come into her life, and Sandy’s long-ago decision has come back to haunt her. The stakes rise quickly, leaving Sandy with split seconds to choose once more. But will her choice decision bring life . . . or death?



My Thoughts:

As a fan of Robert Whitlow when I saw his latest book The Choice I knew I had to read it.  I have had the pleasure of reading The Alexi Lindale Novels and fell immediately in love with Robert Whitlow's writing.  The Choice is another amazing story that really grabbed a hold of me and even still after finishing this book still stays with me.  The Choice starts out in Rutland GA in 1974, Sandy Lincoln is 17 years old and is pregnant.  Sandy's boyfriend doesn't want the bay and his family has offered to pay for an abortion, Sandy's family wants her to carry the baby and put it up for adoption. So Sandy has a choice.  Sandy leaves Rutland, Ga to live with her estranged Aunt Linda for the duration of her pregnancy. On her way to Atlanta, Sandy stops in a gas station and encounters an old woman who calls her Rebekah and when Sandy corrects her she tells Sandy that Sandy is like Rebekah and is pregnant with twin boys, she then asks Sandy if she is going to raise the them and Sandy tells the woman about her plans for adoption and the old woman informs Sandy its a good choice but to make sure the twins are separated at birth. The old woman prophecies that if the twins ever meet, one of them is going to die. The old woman's parting statement is: Some choices bring life, others bring death, Choose well.  Then the old woman disappears without a trace. 

The Choice is an awesome book that addresses the issue of pro life and pro choice.  Robert Whitlow writes an awesome story that truly looks at the choices we make in life and how they affect everyone involved.  The characters in this story were very well written and are people you can relate to.  I found myself truly caught in their lives, seeing the whole situation unfold.  Robert Whitlow writes with authority about Georgia now and in 1974, the adoption process, and the legal aspects of adoption.  Robert Whitlow also integrates the theme of trusting God and praying into this story very well.  I truly found myself unable to put this book down. I felt like I was there watching the events unfolding right with our characters.  I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Christian fiction! You won't be disappointed! I cannot wait to read more from Robert Whitlow.


About Robert Whitlow:

Robert Whitlow is the best-selling author of legal novels set in the South and winner of the prestigious Christy Award for Contemporary Fiction. A Furman University graduate, Whitlow received his J.D. with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law where he served on the staff of the Georgia Law Review. A practicing attorney, Whitlow and his wife, Kathy, have four children. They make their home in North Carolina. 

Robert Whitlow's Website: www.robertwhitlow.com

To Purchase The Choice: http://www.thomasnelson.com/the-choice.html


 
Win a Nook Color from Robert Whitlow in The Choice Giveaway. RSVP for 8/28 Facebook Party.

Celebrate with Robert by entering to win a Nook Color with GlowLight!

See what folks are saying about The Choice!


One "choice" winner will receive:
  • A Nook Color with GlowLight
  • A four book Robert Whitlow library (winner's choice)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on August 27th. Winner will be announced at the "The Choice" Author Chat Facebook Party on 8/28. Meet Robert, get a sneak peek of his next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and more. There will also be gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group.)!

So grab your copy of The Choice and join Robert on the evening of the August 27th for a chance to connect with Robert and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter

Don't miss a moment of the RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 28th!

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

The Romanov Conspiracy: A Thriller By Glenn Meade

I received this book from Howard Books for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.


Book Description:

Glenn Meade’s electrifying latest novel combines the epic sweep and drama of a heroic quest, the passion and tragedy of Doctor Zhivago, and a majestic cast of characters that will stay with you long after the final pages have been turned. . . . SOMETIMES MYSTERIES ARE NEVER SOLVED. SOMETIMES THERE ARE NO ANSWERS.
Dr. Laura Pavlov, an American forensic archaeologist, is about to unravel a mystery that promises to shed light on one of the 20th century’s greatest enigmas.
A member of an international team digging on the outskirts of the present-day Russian city of Ekaterinburg, where the Romanov royal family was executed in July 1918, Pavlov discovers a body perfectly preserved in the permafrost of a disused mine shaft.
The remains offer dramatic new clues to the disappearance of the Romanovs, and in particular their famous daughter, Princess Anastasia, whose murder has always been in question. Pavlov’s discovery sets her on an unlikely journey to Ireland, where a carefully hidden account of a years-old covert mission is about to change the accepted course of world history and hurl her back into the past—into a maelstrom of deceit, secrets, and lies.
Drawn from historical fact, The Romanov Conspiracy is a high-tension story of love and friendship tested by war, and a desperate battle between revenge and redemption, set against one of the most bloody and brutal revolutions in world history. 


My Thoughts: 


The Romanov Conspiracy is the first novel by Glenn Meade I have had the pleasure of reading.  The Romanov Conspiracy is a fiction story with many historically accurate facts.  Dr. Laura Pavlov finds perfectly preserved remains in Ekaterinburg in Russia where the Romanov Family was executed.   Dr Pavlov finds herself in Ireland to find out who this woman was, why she was buried there, and how this man in Ireland knows all these facts.  He takes Dr Pavlov back to 1918 with his story of how a group of people executed a plan to save the Romanov Family. 

The Romanov Conspiracy is a fast paced thriller that takes you back to 1918 Ekaterinburg during the war and the overthrow of the Romanovs.  It is apparent that Glenn Meade has extensive knowledge of The Romanov family, the world at that time; especially Russia, archaeology, and the history behind this whole time period in our history.  The characters in this story are fascinating in their convictions, their way of life, and the different political alliances that bring them all together.  Glenn Meade's writing makes you feel like you are right there watching it all unfold.  The Romanov Conspiracy is very well written and Glenn Meade grabs readers from the start and keeps you guessing until the very end.  I personally learned a lot of history of The Romanov's that I didn't know, but never felt bogged down by historical facts.  This story is a wonderful balance of fiction and fact.  I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Thrillers. You won't be disappointed. I look forward to reading more from Glenn Meade. 

Monday, August 6, 2012

Tidewater Inn: The Hope Beach Series Book 1 By Colleen Coble

I received this book for no charge from Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review of this book. Opinions expressed here are my own.


Book Description:

Welcome to Hope Beach. A place of intoxicating beauty . . . where trouble hits with the force of a hurricane.
Inheriting a beautiful old hotel on the Outer Banks could be a dream come true for Libby. The inn cries out for her restorer’s talent and love of history. She’s delighted to learn of the family she never knew she had. And the handsome Coast Guard lieutenant she’s met there on the island could definitely be the man of her dreams.
But Libby soon realizes that the only way she can afford the upkeep on the inn is to sell it to developers who are stalking the island. The father who willed her the inn has died before she could meet him, and her new found brother and sister are convinced she’s there to steal their birthright. Worst of all, her best friend and business partner has been kidnapped before her eyes, and Libby’s under suspicion for the crime.
Libby’s dream come true is becoming a nightmare. Her only option is to find her friend and prove her innocence, or lose everything on the shores of Hope Island.


My Thoughts:

Tidewater Inn is the first book in Colleen Coble's newest series The Hope Beach Series.  I am a new fan of Colleen Coble, having read only one of her books so far and Tidewater Inn has solidified my love for her books. Tidewater Inn is a Christian Fiction book that has mystery, love, family dynamics, and relying on God to help through every issue all rolled into it. The characters in this book are wonderfully written ,they are not what they seem.  The descriptions Colleen Coble gives of Hope Beach and the surrounding area makes you feel like you are right there seeing it all unfold. Colleen Coble weaves a tale that grabbed me right from the start and kept me guessing until the end.  I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.  If you enjoy Colleen Coble's other books this one will not disappoint.  I highly recommend this book.

Check out the contest below!!



Celebrate with Colleen by entering to win a $500 gift certificate to BedandBreakfast.com!

Find out what the reviewers are saying here!


One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A $500 gift certificate to BedandBreakfast.com
  • A copy of Tidewater Inn.
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on August 22nd. Winner will be announced at Colleen's "Tidewater Inn" Author Chat Facebook Party on 8/23. Colleen will be sharing the story behind the book, hosting a book chat, testing your trivia skills, and of course, there will be plenty of fun giveaways - books, gift certificates and a Book Club Prize Pack! She’ll also be giving a sneak peak of her next book too!

So grab your copy of Tidewater Inn and join Colleen on the evening of the August 23rd  for a chance to connect with Colleen and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER about Colleen's giveaway and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 23rd!

Sunday, August 5, 2012

HAPPY 10TH ANNIVERSARY PR BY THE BOOK!

PR by the Book is celebrating its 10th Anniversary with a contest!  Escape to Austin, See details below!! Click the links to enter!

PR by the Book's "Escape to Austin" Contest
To celebrate its 10th Anniversary, PR by the Book will award one literary lover a trip to the home of storytellers like O. Henry and Willie Nelson: Austin, Texas

AUSTINNow in its 10th year of operation, with a growing pool of star literary talent and media personalities, PR by the Book has become a go-to firm in the book publishing industry for innovative publicity campaigns and top-tier media placement.

Founded in 2002 by Marika Flatt, PR by the Book has grown from a one-woman operation to a team of 10, representing everyone from The Berenstain Bears series to Rex Pickett, author of the beloved book-turned-movie, Sideways.

Now, PR by the Book has decided it’s time to share the love. And what better way to do that than to award a trip to the town where it all got started: Austin, Texas?

"Austin has burgeoned into a bustling literary community. When I started in book publicity here in 1997, I’d meet people who would be surprised I wasn’t from New York or Los Angeles,” says Flatt. “Now, when I travel for work and people ask where I’m from and I tell them Austin, the response is something similar to: I adore Austin and what a literary town that is!”

The contest is called "Escape to Austin" and will be a truly one-of-a-kind trip for the lucky winner. The prize package includes round-trip airfare for the winner and a guest, a two-night stay at The Hilton Garden Inn downtown Austin, dinner for two at TRIO in the Four Seasons, a $50 gift certificate to historic Hyde Park Bar & Grill and a couple of bookish perks.

Drawing the likes of Susan Orlean and Chuck Palahniuk, the Texas Book Festival is one of the premiere literary fests in the country. Last year, the festival featured 243 authors and attracted 40,000 attendees. The winner of the "Escape to Austin" contest will be granted two VIP passes to the weekend-long festival October 26-28, as well as a pass to one of TBF's invitation-only author parties.

"We are very excited to partner with PR by the Book for this contest package," says Lidia Agraz, TBF's Executive Director. "We're still early in the talent line-up process, but I can say that this year's festival will offer attendees a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to commune with true literary icons."

To enter "Escape to Austin," contest hopefuls must simply "like" PR by the Book on Facebook and fill out the entry form. The contest runs August 1 – August 31, 2012, and a winner will be selected by September 7 (open to U.S. residents only.)

PR BY THE BOOK is a boutique publicity firm specializing in literary media relations campaigns, publishing consultation, small business publicity, and publicity tours for authors and experts. Our team of seasoned publicists has worked on books in nearly every genre, and with dozens of major publishing houses and small presses. Visit prbythebook.com to learn more.

The Egyptian Princess: A Story of Hagar By KD Homberg

I received this audiobook for no charge from the author and Celebrate Lit Blogger Program in exchange for my honest review of this audiobook...