by admin | May 23, 2012 | Books, Historical, Romance, WWII
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingThe Anniversary WaltzRealms (May 15, 2012)byDarrel NelsonABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A Word from the author:I am a schoolteacher by profession and have taught school for (thir—ahem!) years. I grew up in Raymond, Alberta, and attended the University of Lethbridge after graduating from high school and serving a two-year mission to Japan. During university, I met and married Marsha Smith, and we are the parents of four children, which has grown to include their spouses and our ten grandchildren.
I have always loved to write. I started writing stories before I was old enough to realize I was writing stories. It seemed a natural thing to pick up a pencil and paper and create a world simply by using words—worlds of adventure in steaming jungles (Tarzan was an early influence on me) or realms of adventure in outer space (Buck Rogers). But as I have grown older, I have discovered that the real inspiration for me is exploring the theme of love and how it can make such a difference in the world.
I’ve had an article published in Lethbridge Magazine and have written several dramatic plays, two of which won provincial recognition and were showcased at a drama festival. I won the CJOC radio songwriting contest two years running, and have had one of my songs receive international airplay. I have written four novels intended for the juvenile market. They are unpublished as yet, but I read them annually to my fourth grade students and my students tell me they love them, the darlings.
Learn more about Darrel and his books on his Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
At their sixtieth anniversary party, Adam Carlson asks his wife, Elizabeth, for their customary waltz. After the dance they gather the family and share their story—a story of love and courage overcoming adversity and thriving in the face of overwhelming odds.
It’s the summer of 1946, and Adam has just returned from the war to his home in Reunion, Montana. At a town festival he meets Elizabeth Baxter, a young woman going steady with his former high school rival and now influential banker, Nathan Roberts.
When Adam and Elizabeth share a waltz in a deserted pavilion one evening, their feelings begin to grow and they embark on a journey, and a dance, that will last a lifetime.
If you’d like to read the first chapter excerpt of The Anniversary Waltz, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
The Anniversary Waltz is a beautifully told nostalgic love story set during the year immediately following World War II. Contrasting excitement over the end of the war and returning soldier with the many financial and other challenges faced by the returning heroes, the story illustrates the era well. Hero Adam Carlson and heroine Elizabeth Baxter’s courtship is fraught with complications as they face overwhelming situations and tragedy. Only their faith and some creative solutions help them overcome the odds against them.
As a debut novel, The Anniversary Waltz shows great promise of more good stories to come. The characters are true-to-life and it was easy to become involved in their lives. The setting was the perfect backdrop and I almost felt like I had stepped back in time to post war Montana. I enjoyed The Anniversary Waltz and look forward to reading more by this author.
by admin | May 21, 2012 | Amish, Books, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingAnnie’s TruthRealms (May 15, 2012)byBeth ShriverABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Childhood memories of her grandfather’s ranch came alive as Beth wrote her first Amish story. Her parents grew up in the country, so she understands pastoral life and respects those who make a living off the land. She frequents a nearby Amish community just south of Fort-Worth for an occasional church service or brunch with the bishop and his wife. And on the way home she stops at the community store to get some plum jam!
In 2003 Beth began writing her first book. A couple of years later it was published and she has been writing ever since. Beth received a degree in social work from the University of Nebraska and was a case worker before starting a family. Beth followed her passion and has written in a variety of genres in both fiction and non-fiction.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After learning the truth about who she really is, can this prodigal daughter be accepted back into the safety and security of home?
Annie Beiler seems to have it all—a loving family in a tight-knit Amish community and the affections of an attractive and respected young man. But when she learns that she was adopted after being found as an abandoned newborn, she sets out on a journey to find out who she is.
Her father is strongly against her decision to leave, as it could mean Meidung, or excommunication from the community and even her family. But Annie knows she must find “the path that has her heart.”
As Annie’s search brings her into the fast-paced world of modern life, she is confronted with all of the temptations she was warned of. Can she make her way back to the order and security of her family? Or will she remain an outsider—torn between her two worlds?
If you would like to read an excerpt from the first chapter of Annie’s Truth, go HERE.
Learn more about Beth and her books on her Website.
MY REVIEW:
For true fans of Amish fiction, Annie’s Truth adds yet another choice of books in that genre. Featuring members of an old order Amish community, the narrative reveals several differences between various sects and gives the reader an inside look at their lives. The story itself was interesting, particularly the varied reactions to Annie’s time away from the community. With a primary message of forgiveness, Annie’s Truth was quickly read and enjoyable.
by admin | May 19, 2012 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“My Stubborn Heart” is the debut novel by author Becky Wade that I would describe as somewhat “edgy” by current definition. While it has a basically strong faith based message, there are also some scenes and language that many Christians could find offensive. I myself did not have too much of a problem with it because most of the potentially objectionable content was used in a realistic manner. After all, do any of us really know any “perfect” Christians (including ourselves) who never speak inappropriately? I did find that the references to Matt as a “hottie” became a bit repetitious and juvenile, especially coming from supposedly mature women but even that did not prevent me from enjoying the novel.
The story features Kate, a 31-year-old who has been praying for a husband most of her life and has begun to wonder if God would ever answer her prayers. When she takes a break from her job to help her grandmother renovate the family home in Redbud, Pennsylvania, she experiences an instant recognition when she meets Matt, the man doing most of the renovation. However, Matt resists her attempts at friendship from the beginning. As any regular reader of romance novels will know, the story is all about how the walls between Kate and Matt will come down in order for them to have a future together. With that as a given, “My Stubborn Heart” fills in all the blanks about how that transpires.
Sometimes humorous and sometimes dramatic and highly emotional, “My Stubborn Heart” is filled with interesting characters and background. The town of Redbud is enchanting and details about the renovation and decoration of the house were fascinating. An emphasis on the power of prayer predominates and more than makes up for any of the previously mentioned concerns.
Overall, I would recommend “My Stubborn Heart” to those who enjoy contemporary romance.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Kate Donovan is burned out on work, worn down by her dating relationships, and in need of an adventure. When her grandmother asks her to accompany her to Redbud, Pennsylvania, to restore the grand old house she grew up in, Kate jumps at the chance.
Upon her arrival in Redbud, Kate meets Matt Jarreau, the man hired to renovate the house. Kate can’t help being attracted to him, drawn by both his good looks and something else she can’t quite put her finger on. He’s clearly wounded–hiding from people, from God, and from his past. Yet Kate sets her stubborn heart on bringing him out of the dark and back into the light…whether he likes it or not.
When the stilted, uncomfortable interactions between Kate and Matt slowly shift into something more, is God finally answering the longing of her heart? Or will Kate be required to give up more than she ever dreamed?
See what other bloggers are saying about “My Stubborn Heart” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
During her childhood in California, Becky frequently produced homemade plays starring her sisters, friends, and cousins. These plays almost always featured a heroine, a prince, and a love story with a happy ending. She’s been a fan of all things romantic ever since.
Becky and her husband lived overseas in the Caribbean and Australia before settling in Dallas, Texas. It was during her years abroad that Becky’s passion for reading turned into a passion for writing. She published three historical romances with Avon Books, then put her career on hold for several years to care for her kids, then recently returned to writing sheerly for the love of it. She felt led to move to the genre of contemporary Christian romance and couldn’t be more thrilled with it.
These days Becky can be found failing but trying to keep up with her housework, sweating at the gym, carting her kids around town, playing tennis, hunched over her computer, eating chocolate, or collapsed on the sofa watching TV with her husband.
Learn more at: www.BeckyWade.com
Meet Becky:
Stubborn Heart Giveaway!
Celebrate with Becky by entering her My Stubborn Heart Giveaway and connecting with her during the Author Chat Party on 5/24!
One fortunate winner will receive:
- A Brand New Nook Simple Touch™ with GlowLight™
- A $25 Barnes & Noble Gift Certificate
- A copy of My Stubborn Heart by Becky Wade
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on May 24th. Winner will be announced at the “My Stubborn Heart” Author Chat Facebook Party on 5/24. Becky will be hosting an book chat, testing your trivia skills and giving away some great prizes!
So grab your copy of My Stubborn Heart and join Becky on the evening of the May 24th for a chance to meet Becky and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)
by admin | May 18, 2012 | Books, England, Regency, Romance, Suspense
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingChameleonRealms (May 15, 2012)byJillian KentABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jillian Kent is a busy writer and the alter ego of Jill Nutter, a full-time counselor.
Jill spent the first semester of her senior year of college at Oxford studying British Literature, where she fell in love with England. During this season, she came to appreciate the written word, the rich imagery of romantic poetry like The Highwayman, and historical novels of many types, including Jane Austen and all things Regency.
Jill received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Bethany College in West Virginia, and her Masters Degree in Social Work from WVU, and she brings her fascination with different cultures and societies into her writing.
Jill has always been a romantic at heart, so readers will find a good dose of romance woven through each of her novels. Jill, her husband Randy, and children Katie and Meghan are animal lovers. They currently own two dogs, Boo-Boo and Bandit and a menagerie of cats, Lucky, Yuma, Snow, and Holden. Critters of all assortments make their appearance in her stories.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
How much can you really know about someone?
Lady Victoria Grayson has always considered herself a keen observer of human behavior. After battling a chronic childhood illness that kept her homebound for years, she journeys to London determined to have the adventure of a lifetime.
Jaded by his wartime profession as a spy, Lord Witt understands, more than most, that everyone is not always who they pretend to be. He meets Victoria after the Regent requests an investigation into the activities of her physician brother, Lord Ravensmoore.
Witt and Victoria become increasingly entangled in a plot targeting the lords of Parliament. Victoria is forced to question how well she knows those close to her while challenging Witt’s cynical nature and doubts about God. Together they must confront their pasts in order to solve a mystery that could devastate their future.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Chameleon, go HERE.
Learn more about Jillian and her books on her Website
MY REVIEW:
Although there were no haunted castles or mentally deranged wives locked in a tower or any other common scenarios from the gothic romance novels I loved when I was young, Chameleon brought them to mind. Set in Regency England, this romantic suspense had that dark and brooding atmosphere that so typified that genre yet was also so much more. Rather than a shy and fearful heroine in need of a strong hero to rescue her, Victoria Grayson had intelligence and spunk and even rode to the rescue herself a time or two. Lord Witt was a special hero – strong and confident yet understanding and sympathetic.
What can I say about Chameleon without giving the story away? I did not understand the purpose of the title until near the end of the book when I realized just how perfectly it covered what was going on. The mystery and suspense built throughout the story along with plenty of action. Sufficient twists and surprises kept me guessing and on edge to the end. A touch of humor broke the mounting tension at just the right times. The romance between Lord Witt and Lady Victoria progressed at a perfect pace and came to a satisfying conclusion. A strong message of faith was woven seamlessly throughout the narrative.
Although I thoroughly enjoyed “Secrets of the Heart”, the first novel of The Ravensmoore Chronicles, I liked Chameleon even more. I look forward to the next installment of this great series.
by admin | May 14, 2012 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingMy Stubborn Heart• Bethany House Publishers; Original edition (May 1, 2012)byBecky WadeABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Becky Wade is a graduate of Baylor University. As a newlywed, she lived for three years in a home overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, as well as in Australia, before returning to the States. A mom of three young children, Becky and her family now live in Dallas, Texas.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A Sensational CBA Debut in Contemporary Romance!
This summer author Becky Wade makes her CBA debut with a fun — and funny — contemporary romance. Amidst the light-hearted banter and laugh-out-loud moments is a compelling spiritual journey of one woman’s choice to listen to God and wait on him. Filled with humor and authentic romance, My Stubborn Heart is shaping up to be the hit of the summer.
Kate Donovan is burned out on work, worn down by her dating relationships, and in need of an adventure. When Kate’s grandmother asks Kate to accompany her to Redbud, Pennsylvania, to restore the grand old house she grew up in, Kate jumps at the chance.
Yet, she discovers a different kind of project upon meeting the man hired to renovate the house. ;Matt Jarreau is attractive and clearly wounded — hiding from people, from God, and from his past. Kate can’t help but set her stubborn heart on bringing him out of the dark and back into the light… whether he likes it or not.
If you would like to read the first chapter of My Stubborn Heart, go HERE.
Learn more about Becky and her books on her Website.
MY REVIEW:
“My Stubborn Heart” is the debut novel by author Becky Wade that I would describe as somewhat “edgy” by current definition. While it has a basically strong faith based message, there are also some scenes and language that many Christians could find offensive. I myself did not have too much of a problem with it because most of the potentially objectionable content was used in a realistic manner. After all, do any of us really know any “perfect” Christians (including ourselves) who never speak inappropriately? I did find that the references to Matt as a “hottie” became a bit repetitious and juvenile, especially coming from supposedly mature women but even that did not prevent me from enjoying the novel.
The story features Kate, a 31-year-old who has been praying for a husband most of her life and has begun to wonder if God would ever answer her prayers. When she takes a break from her job to help her grandmother renovate the family home in Redbud, Pennsylvania, she experiences an instant recognition when she meets Matt, the man doing most of the renovation. However, Matt resists her attempts at friendship from the beginning. As any regular reader of romance novels will know, the story is all about how the walls between Kate and Matt will come down in order for them to have a future together. With that as a given, “My Stubborn Heart” fills in all the blanks about how that transpires.
Sometimes humorous and sometimes dramatic and highly emotional, “My Stubborn Heart” is filled with interesting characters and background. The town of Redbud is enchanting and details about the renovation and decoration of the house were fascinating. An emphasis on the power of prayer predominates and more than makes up for any of the previously mentioned concerns.
Overall, I would recommend “My Stubborn Heart” to those who enjoy contemporary romance.
by admin | May 13, 2012 | Books, Gilded Age, Historical, Revell, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“The Pursuit of Lucy Banning” gives readers an inside look at the lives of the wealthy residents of exclusive Prairie Avenue of Chicago during the late 1800’s just prior to the opening of the World’s Fair. As the gilded age is nearing its end, lifestyles are indulgent among the rich with heavy emphasis on their social standing. Making the proper marriage connection is of utmost importance within the upper class.
Lucy Banning is the only daughter of one of the Prairie Avenue families. She has been groomed to marry the son of her parents’ best friends for most of her life. As Lucy is pressured to set a wedding date and spend her time planning the event, she is much too involved with her secret college class and her orphanage work, the true loves of her life. When she meets her brother’s friend Will, she realizes that she loves Daniel like a brother and can never marry him. His resistance to her decision and his increasingly unusual behavior haunts her every move. A subplot that features a new maid in the Banning household adds extra interest to the story and just might be the lead-in to the next installment of this series.
“The Pursuit of Lucy Banning” has just the right blend of drama, romance, and even a bit of suspense. The neighborhood of Prairie Avenue was so well described that I could imagine walking down the street and viewing the marvelous architecture of the homes there. Lucy was a strong character with many redeeming qualities, especially her tender heart toward those less fortunate than herself. Will was the perfect match for her even if he didn’t measure up to her family’s social standards.
I very much enjoyed my brief look into the world of the rich and famous of Chicago and a lifestyle that no longer exists. I can’t wait for the next book of the series.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Riveting Story of Love, Wealth & Secrets as Historic Chicago Prepares for 1893 World’s Fair
Marshall Field, Henry Studebaker, Pullman, Kimball, Glessner, Bissell, Armour and Rothschild— these names add up to business inventiveness and unbounded wealth in turn-of-the-century Chicago – but changing social classes are threatening the luxury of the elite Prairie Avenue, the playground for the rich and powerful. Olivia Newport introduces readers to a world of luxurious mansions, secrets and forbidden love in the Windy City.
Set on Prairie Avenue, The Pursuit of Lucy Banning gives an inside look to the rich and powerful on the eve of the 1893 World’s Fair in the Windy City. Olivia Newport transports readers to a time of opulence in the first installment in the Avenue of Dreams series.
Lucy Banning may live among Chicago’s rich and famous, but her heart lies elsewhere. Expected to marry an up-and-coming banker from a respected family, Lucy fears she will be forced to abandon her charity work–and the classes she is secretly taking at the newly opened University of Chicago. When she meets an unconventional young architect who is working on plans for the upcoming 1893 World’s Fair, Lucy imagines a life lived on her own terms. Can she break away from her family’s expectations? And will she ever be loved for who she truly is?
From lavish upper-class homes to the well-worn rooms of an orphanage, Newport breathes life and romance into the pages of history–and everyone is invited.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Olivia Newport‘s novels twist through time to discover where faith and passions meet. Her husband and two twenty-something children provide welcome distraction from the people stomping through her head on their way into her books. She chases joy in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where day lilies grow as tall as she is.
A Word from the author:
