by admin | Sep 12, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Culinary, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Overall, “All’s Fair in Love and Cupcakes” was a fun and entertaining contemporary romance that was a pleasant diversion. I liked the idea of two long-time best friends coming to realize that their feelings for each other had changed. As far as their characterization went, I really liked both Kat and Lucas. Sometimes Kat’s frustration with her job and her desire to open her own bakery in another town blinded her to the very real possibilities right in front of her. Lucas was the perfect hero, sweet and supportive and willing to do almost anything for Kat – even wear an apron and cook on TV. I enjoyed reading about the cupcake competition and it seemed very realistic as far as what I have actually seen on similar programs. The vivid descriptions of Kat’s recipes made my mouth water and I appreciated the recipe that was included at the end of the book.
Lucas had always been Kat’s number one cheerleader – the one person she could count on for encouragement when her own family failed her. When both Kat and Lucas discovered strong feelings for each other, a trip together to California for a TV cupcake bake-off should have been the perfect romantic interlude. In actuality, their time together became more and more stressed with frequent quarrels that grew out of their personal insecurities about the other’s feelings. I’ll admit, I grew a bit frustrated with both Kat and Lucas at times. I wanted to shake them and tell them to wake up. A total lack of real communication contributed to their problems and it was beginning to look like things just were not going to work out for them.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Kat inspected rows of the same old cupcakes. They seemed to blink back at her, as if they knew she was capable of so much more.
Kat Varland has had enough of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
At twenty-six years old, Kat is still living in the shadows of her family in Bayou Bend, Louisiana. Still working shifts at her Aunt Maggie’s bakery. Still wondering what to do with her passion for baking and her business degree. And still single.
But when Lucas Brannen, Kat’s best friend, signs her up for a reality TV bake-off on Cupcake Combat, everything Kat ever wanted is suddenly dangled in front of her: creative license as a baker, recognition as a visionary . . . and a job at a famous bakery in New York.
As the competition heats up, Lucas realizes he might have made a huge mistake. As much as he wants the best for Kat, the only thing he wants for himself—her—is suddenly in danger of slipping away.
The bright lights of reality cooking wars and the chance at a successful career dazzle Kat’s senses and Lucas is faced with a difficult choice: help his friend achieve her dreams . . . or sabotage her chances to keep her in Louisiana.
Learn more and purchase a copy on Betsy’s site.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Betsy St. Amant lives in Louisiana with her young daughter and has a heart for sharing the amazing news of God’s grace through her novels. A freelance journalist, Betsy is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. When she’s not reading, writing, or singing along to a Disney soundtrack with her daughter, Betsy enjoys inspirational speaking and teaching on the craft of writing.
“Love & Cupcakes” Kindle Giveaway and Facebook Party from @BetsyStAmant!
Don’t miss Betsy St. Amant’s latest fiction release, All’s Fair in Love and Cupcakes. A “sweet” tale of two best friends and the choices they make between dreams and a possible “sure thing,” St. Amant’s novel is sure to satisfy your romantic-fiction craving.
Betsy is celebrating with a fun Kindle giveaway and a Love & Cupcakes Facebook party!
One winner will receive:
- A brand new Kindle
- All’s Fair in Love and Cupcakes by Betsy St. Amant
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on September 18th. Winner will be announced at the “Love & Cupcakes” Author Chat Party on 9/18. Betsy will be hosting a “sweet” book chat, giving away prizes, and answering questions from readers. She will also share an exclusive sneak peek at her next book project!
So grab your copy of All’s Fair in Love and Cupcakes and join Betsy on the evening of September 18th 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
Hope to see you on the 18th!
by admin | Sep 11, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
“The Desire” is the story of Allan and Michele, a young couple who would like to start a family but have had no success. Michele can think of nothing else and resents that Allan seems to be more interested in his mission trips to Africa than her desire for a child. Obviously tensions in their marriage are escalating. At the same time, a pregnant teen enters the lives of Michele and the Anderson family and it appears that her baby could be the perfect solution to Michele’s problem.
In this compelling novel, the reader gains a look into the thoughts and emotions of an infertile young woman as well as an unwed mother. The story also takes us to the mission field in Africa where we get a graphic glimpse of the kind of life that we as Americans cannot even begin to imagine.
As the novel progresses, we see Michele’s attitude begin to change as she reviews a new curriculum for the children’s ministry in her church. As the Lord begins to work in her life and she begins to depend on Him more, she finds that the desire of her heart is more in tune with what the Lord intended for her and Allan all along.
“The Desire” is well-written and very thought provoking. It is a fitting addition to the Restoration Series and I recommend it.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can faith build a bridge between their dreams?
For two years, Allan and Michele have been trying to have a baby. The emotional ride has been taking a toll on their hearts–and their relationship. Michele is obsessed with researching fertility treatments while Allan seems content to spend his time–and their money–on supporting displaced children in Africa. Something’s got to give. But they both hope it’s not their marriage.
Still, God has a plan for Allan and Michele that they could never have imagined. And all it takes to set it in motion is a change of heart . . .
Read an excerpt from “The Desire” HERE.
Purchase a copy of “The Desire:
What critics are saying about the Restoration Series:
“So captivating that you’ll find it very difficult to put down.”–RT Book Reviews
“Readers will be totally drawn in to [the Andersons’] emotional journey.”–Booklist
“Sure to please.”–Library Journal
“Readers will definitely come away satisfied.”–Publishers Weekly
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of several books, including The Dance with Gary Smalley, The Discovery, and The Reunion. He has won three Carol Awards, and two of his novels were finalists for RT Reviews Inspirational Book of the Year for 2011 and 2012. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Dan served as a pastor for 25 years. He lives with his wife in the Daytona Beach area, where he’s busy researching and writing his next novel.
Gary Smalley is one of the country’s best-known authors and speakers on family relationships and has appeared on national television programs such as Oprah, Larry King Live, and TODAY, as well as numerous national radio programs. He is the bestselling and award-winning author or coauthor of many books, including the Baxter Family Redemption series with Karen Kingsbury and The Dance with Dan Walsh. Gary and his wife Norma have been married for 49 years and live in Missouri.
by admin | Sep 11, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I have enjoyed Lynette Eason’s suspense novels since the first ones I read through Love Inspired Suspense. They were excellent but I love the fact that she is now writing full length novels. All the more pages to read before I reach the end!
“Nowhere to Turn” got off to an exciting start and barely slowed down long enough for me to catch my breath. The plot kept to a good pace throughout with plenty of action, danger, surprises, and a bit of romance to keep most readers happy. Although it was evident who some of the bad guys were, the author kept a few secrets to herself until just the right moment for their revelation. I did manage to guess how they kept finding where Danielle was staying but then I have read LOTS of suspense novels. I really liked Danielle and Adam as main characters and Danielle’s son Simon was just perfect for the story.
As long as Lynette Eason will continue to write books like “Nowhere to Turn”, I will keep reading them. I very much recommend it and all her other books to anyone who enjoys a good suspense novel.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She thought her days of hiding were over . . . but the danger has just begun
The day Danielle Harding takes her eleven-year-old son and flees from her abusive husband is the same day Kurt Harding dies. A relieved Dani believes she and her son are finally safe–but in reality, things are just heating up. When Kurt was alive, he took something important from a mysterious individual–who wants the item back and believes Dani now has it. As she and her son run for their lives, they have nowhere to turn, until she hires Adam Buchanan of Operation Refuge and goes into hiding. Unfortunately, she won’t be able to hide for long . . .
From the first breathless scene, this tension-laced story will hold you in its iron grip as bestselling author Lynette Eason propels you along in a race to discover the truth.
Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice series and the Deadly Reunions series, as well as No One to Trust. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She has a master’s degree in education from Converse College and she lives in South Carolina. Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.
Read an excerpt from “Nowhere to Turn” HERE.
Purchase a copy of “Nowhere to Turn”:
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice series and the Deadly Reunions series. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She has a master’s degree in education from Converse College and she lives in South Carolina.
by admin | Sep 10, 2014 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Mennonite, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I actually hesitated to accept “A Season of Change” for review. I may be one of the few readers of Christian fiction who has grown a bit weary of Amish fiction and sometimes wonder how long this trend can last. I was pleasantly surprised by a unique tale featuring an unlikely romance between an old order Amish widower and a young woman whose career in the circus has come to an end.
“A Season of Change” is a heart-warming story set in Pinecraft, an actual Amish/Mennonite community near Sarasota, Florida. It was interesting to read about the relaxed atmosphere of the community that is is such contrast to the Amish lifestyle I usually read about. The characters are well developed and the narrative held my interest quite well. I loved how Jacob’s children played an integral role. I also liked the fact that Jacob and Natalie were able to find a compromise for their differences. I usually find it difficult to believe when an Englisher converts to the Amish faith – even if it is for love.
A good story with a surprise or two, “A Season of Change” is sure to please those who enjoy Amish fiction and possibly even a few readers such as myself.
This book was provided for review by the Amazon Vine program.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Amish widower Jacob Miller believes it was a mistake to visit the Amish village of Pinecraft for winter vacation, especially after his daughter is struck by a car. Stranded in Sarasota until his daughter recovers, Jacob grows increasingly wary of events that unfold in his unfamiliar surroundings—including the strange curiosity of Englischer Natalie Bennett.
Natalie never thought her circus career as an aerial silks artist would end with a blown-out knee at the age of 25. She also never knew her late mother had a secret—that she was once Amish.
When Natalie meets the Millers at the Sarasota hospital, she is attracted to their warm hospitality and simple ways—and soon wonders if they can help her find her mother’s family. As Jacob and Natalie fall in love, their worlds collide. Will their differences tear them apart? Or will their love be strong enough to blend their clashing cultures?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lynette Sowell is the award-winning author of over 15 titles for Barbour Publishing, Harlequin, and Abingdon Press. Lynette was born in Western Massachusetts in the shadow of the Berkshire Mountains, raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, but makes her home on the doorstep of the Texas hill country. She loves reading, cooking, watching movies, and is always up for a Texas road trip. When she’s not writing fiction, she works as a reporter for her city newspaper and has a weekly column called My Front Porch.
by admin | Sep 8, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Love Inspired, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
“Sunken Treasure” is the third novel in Katy Lee’s Love Inspired Suspense series set on Stepping Stones Island. A modern-day pirate tale, the plot is fast paced and filled with danger, suspense, and adventure as well as the requisite romance. The setting of Stepping Stones Island is perfect with its rich and mysterious history.
Talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time! Rachelle Thibodaux found herself right in the middle of a high-stakes race to find a sunken ship that also involved revenge. Plenty of action, drama, and a few surprises kept me reading the entire book in one sitting. Realistically portrayed circumstances in Rachelle’s life made her character well-rounded and believable. I loved seeing how she slowly broke out of her self-imposed isolation and realized that her friends and neighbors did not blame her for the sins of her father. I really liked the characters and their connections to the previous books in the series.
“Sunken Treasure” is another riveting tale from Katy Lee and I highly recommend it and all her novels.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Danger on the High Seas
Shipwreck diver Gage Fontaine is used to modern-day pirates chasing after his boat and the buried treasure he salvages. But when he unknowingly leads a dangerous criminal to the waters off Stepping Stones Island, he puts a beautiful fisherwoman in grave danger. Rachelle Thibodaux has spent the past year hiding on her boat to avoid the town’s censure for her father’s crimes. But when she comes face-to-face with a gun-wielding pirate, she becomes a new kind of target. To save her own life, she’ll have to work with Gage to find the treasure before the pirates do.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
As an Inspirational Romantic Suspense author, Katy Lee writes higher-purpose stories in high-speed worlds. Through her writing, ministries, and teaching, she dedicates her life to sharing tales of love, from the greatest love story ever told to those sweet romantic stories of falling in love. Katy and her husband are born New Englanders, but have been known to travel at the drop of a hat along with their three children. But is where you can find Katy anytime.
by admin | Sep 5, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingDriftwood TidesTyndale House Publishers, Inc. (September 1, 2014)byGina HolmesABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Gina Holmes is the founder of Novel Rocket, regularly named as one of Writers Digest’s best websites for writers. Her debut, Crossing Oceans, was a Christy and Gold Medallion finalist and winner of the Carol Award, INSPY, and RWA’s Inspirational Reader’s Choice, as well as being a CBA, ECPA, Amazon and PW bestseller. Her sophomore novel, Dry as Rain was a Christy Award finalist. Her latest novel, Wings of Glass has been named as one of the best books of the year by Library Journal and was a SIBA Okra pick and a finalist for Romantic Times’ Reviewers Choice Award. She holds degrees in science and nursing and currently resides with her family in southern Virginia. She works too hard, laughs too loud, and longs to see others heal from their past and discover their God-given purpose.
Learn more about Gina and her books on her Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
He made himself an island until something unexpected washed ashore.
When Holton lost his wife, Adele, in a freak accident, he shut himself off from the world, living a life of seclusion, making drifwood sculptures and drowning his pain in gin. Until twenty-three-year-old Libby knocks on his door, asking for a job and claiming to be a friend of his late wife. When he discovers Libby is actually his late wife’s illegitimate daughter, given up for adoption without his knowledge, his life is turned upside down as he struggles to accept that the wife he’d given saint status to was not the woman he thought he knew.
Together Holton and Libby form an unlikely bond as the two struggle to learn the identity of Libby’s father and the truth about Adele, themselves, and each other.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Driftwood Tides, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Driftwood Tides is an emotionally charged story of a young woman who has always felt out of place but wasn’t sure why. A startling revelation during a pre-wedding blood test, sends Libby on a quest to find out who she really is. What Libby finds is not always pretty, but new bonds are formed that will last forever and she finds an inner peace and strength she didn’t know she had.
Although Driftwood Tides is not exactly filled with action or romance, its plot dragged me right into it. I enjoyed reading Libby’s journey of self-discovery and found myself quite involved in it. The characters are fully human and believable. Holton’s dependence upon alcohol was so sad but his determination to overcome was admirable.
Ultimately Driftwood Tides is a story about relationships, both old and new and how distance can sometimes open a person’s eyes to the love that was always there but somehow misunderstood. I liked the way the story played out with mended relationships between Libby and her mother as well as how Libby’s fiance supported her during her time away as she sought answers. And . . . the surprise ending was just perfect!
