by admin | May 16, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Humor, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingRise and ShineRiver North; New Edition edition (May 1, 2014)by
Sandra D. BrickerABOUT THE AUTHOR:
For more than a decade, Sandra D. Bricker lived in Los Angeles. While honing her chosen craft of screenwriting in every spare moment, she worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television’s hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she walked away from that segment of her life and moved across the country to take on a new role: Caregiver.
The author says that it was her 8th novel that opened the door to finding her way as a writer. “I’m a Christian woman, first and foremost,” she says. “So it was a bit of a dream-come-true when Summerside Press chose me as one of two authors to launch the Love Finds You line.”
Sandie’s real-life role as cancer survivor has parlayed into her steadfast commitment to raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research. Spearheading a series of devotionals for Summerside Press (such as the popular His Grace is Sufficient…Decaf is Not), the author has stipulated that a portion of each contributor’s proceeds will go to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.
“Being allowed to combine my faith and my humor with raising funds for my pet projects … and still pursue my writing dream,” says Bricker, “well, that’s the best of all worlds, as far as I’m concerned!”
And one of the author’s pet projects is animal rescue, evidenced by the special bond she has created with one particular formerly-abandoned puppy — a red-haired collie with “killer brown eyes and the heart of the class clown.”
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Shannon Malone thought she’d found her happy ending when she married Edmund Ridgeway, but a diving accident on their honeymoon left her in a coma. Waking up to the news that she’s thirty years old would have been daunting enough . . . but she also learns that Edmund has lost his interim battle with cancer and the world has marched on without her. Her gorgeous doctor, Daniel Petros, seems to know everything about her and becomes Shannon’s tour guide into a whole new world of madness where reality television has taken over the planet and everyone’s life appears to revolve around a tiny screen on their cell phones!
As Shannon struggles to navigate through the changes-both in the world and in her-she also must discern real memories from imagined ones. Did she really ever wear capri pants and entertain in her living room, or was that Laura Petrie from her favorite classic TV show? And where is her beloved dog, Freeway? Oh, wait! That was Jonathan and Jennifer Hart’s dog, not hers.
Shannon’s three elderly aunts flit through her life in true Sleeping Beauty style with her well-being always a priority. And Edmund’s sister Millicent descends like the Evil Queen she is, trying to extract Shannon from any claim on the Ridgeway family fortune. When a tornado moves through town and Shannon is knocked unconscious, will Daniel’s kiss awaken her once and for all?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Rise and Shine, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
I always enjoy Sandra Bricker’s fun approach to romance and Rise and Shine was no exception. Loosely based on the classic fairytale “Sleeping Beauty”, this particular modern tale features Shannon who has just woken from a ten-year coma following an accident that took place on her honeymoon. Not only must she adjust to all the changes that have taken place in the world while she slept, but she learns that her husband has also died during that time. Meanwhile, Dr. Daniel Petros has watched over her all those years and intends to honor the promise he made to Shannon’s husband.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and loved the characters from Shannon’s delightful aunts to the dreamy Dr. Daniel. The story was a reminder about how much has actually changed in our daily lives over the past ten years, especially in the form of modern technology. The frequent references to classic TV shows were fun, especially how they affected Shannon’s memory as they were played while she was in her coma. An excellent example of forgiveness was the icing on the cake.
Rise and Shine was fun and easy to read as well as appropriate for all ages.
by admin | May 12, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
The morning after an impulsive wedding in Vegas and a one night honeymoon, Celia’s new husband Ty insists that he has made a big mistake and returns to his rodeo career without a backwards glance. Devastated, Celia goes her own way and attempts to put her life back together. After several years, Ty decides to contact Celia and is surprised to learn that they have a daughter Celia has struggled to raise on her own.
It didn’t take me long to figure out that Ty and Celia would end up back together but who knew just how clueless Ty could be and how stubborn Celia would be. Actually Ty was a great guy who wanted to be sure that both Celia and their daughter were taken care of. He just had his mind made up about who he was supposed to marry and was conflicted at best. Celia’s stubbornness was mostly for self-protection. She knew she couldn’t let Ty back in her heart because she couldn’t trust him not to hurt her again.
“Meant to be Mine” is great contemporary romance with excellent interaction between the characters. I loved the way God finally got Ty’s attention and how he and Celia finally resolved their differences and committed to a lifetime together.
This book was provided for review by
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Ty Porter has always been irresistible to Celia Park. All through high school–irresistible. When their paths cross again after college–still irresistible. This time, though, Ty seems to feel exactly the same way about Celia. Their whirlwind romance deposits them at a street-corner Las Vegas wedding chapel.
The next morning they wake to a marriage certificate and a dose of cold reality. Celia’s ready to be Ty’s wife, but Ty’s not ready to be her husband. He’s a professional bull rider, he lives on the road, and he’s long planned to settle down with the hometown girl he’s known since childhood.
Five and a half years pass. Celia’s buried her dreams so that she can afford to raise her daughter. Ty’s achieved all of his goals. Or thought he had, until he looks again into the eyes of the woman he couldn’t forget and into the face of the child he never knew he had.
How much will Ty sacrifice to win back Celia’s trust and prove to her that their spontaneous marriage can still become the love of a lifetime?
Read an excerpt from “Meant to be Mine HERE.
Praise for Becky Wade
“Definitely one for the keeper shelf!”–USA Today on Undeniably Yours
“A sweet contemporary romance that will make for the perfect summer read.”–Novel Crossing on Undeniably Yours
“A feisty heroine, romance, and comedy make this a fabulous debut and Wade an author to follow.”–Library Journal on My Stubborn Heart
“A perfect 5 out of 5 stars…can’t wait to find more from Becky in the near future. This is a must-read for your summer love stories!”–Reviews from the Heart blog on My Stubborn Heart
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
by admin | May 12, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
A poignant story set in motion by the death of Haley’s husband Sam, “Somebody Like You” kept me reading far past my bedtime. It could be difficult to believe that a wife would not know that her husband had an identical twin and that she might fall in love with the twin after her husband’s death but in Beth Vogt’s new novel, it makes perfect sense.
“Somebody Like You” is a story about regrets. Stephen regrets that he waited too late to reconcile with his brother Sam but hopes that in some way he can learn more about his brother’s last years by getting to know Sam’s widow. Haley regrets not telling Sam that they were expecting a child before his death. The discovery that Sam had an identical twin caught her off guard and she wanted to have nothing to do with Stephen; however Stephen’s persistence got past her walls and she soon became dependent on him. Frequent readers can see where this tale will end but the journey is filled with obstacles and seeming impossibilities.
I loved this faith filled story of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. I would recommend it to all who enjoy a romance with a message.
This book was provided for review by Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster, Inc.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In this beautifully rendered, affecting novel, a young widow’s world is shattered when she meets her late husband’s identical twin—and finds herself caught between honoring her husband’s memory and falling in love with his reflection.
Haley’s whirlwind romance and almost three-year marriage to Sam, an army medic, ends tragically when he is killed in Afghanistan. As she grapples with widowhood and the upcoming birth of her son, her attempts to create a new life for herself are ambushed when she arrives home one evening—and finds her husband waiting for her. Did the military make an unimaginable mistake when they told her that Sam had been killed?
After a twelve-year estrangement, Stephen hopes to make things right with his brother—only to discover Sam died without revealing Stephen’s existence to Haley. As Haley and Stephen struggle to navigate their fragile relationship, they are inexorably drawn to each other. Haley is unnerved by Stephen’s uncanny resemblance to Sam, and Stephen struggles with the issue of Haley loving him as Stephen—and not as some reflection of his twin. How can Haley and Stephen honor the memory of a man whose death brought them together—and whose ghost could drive them apart?
Somebody Like You reminds us that while we can’t change the past, we have the choice—and the power through God—to change the future and start anew.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Beth K. Vogt is a nonfiction author and editor who said she’d never write fiction. She’s the wife of an air force physician who said she’d never marry a doctor—or anyone in the military. She’s a mom of four who said she’d never have kids. She’s discovered that God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.”
by admin | May 11, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, France, Historical, Romance, WWII
MY REVIEW:
“Chateau of Secrets” tells two related stories, one that is current and one that took place in France during World War 2. Through alternating chapters the reader learns the historic story of Gisèle Duchant and the risks she took to hide French resistance fighters as well as saving numerous others after the German army moved into the family chateau during the German occupation of France. The contemporary story follows Gisèle’s granddaughter Chloe Sauver as she travels to France to answer questions for a documentary featuring the family history.
“Chateau of Secrets” is a fascinating novel that held my attention until the very end. It was easy to follow each story thread and I enjoyed reading what happened to Gisèle at the same time Chloe learned more about her. The historical setting and details were excellent. I almost felt as though I was there. The dramatic tension was perfect and surprises were revealed at just the right moments. Chloe’s love interests added extra depth to the narrative but in my opinion Gisèle was the star of this book.
A special story, “Chateau of Secrets” is a book I would recommend to all lovers of historical fiction.
This book was provided for review by Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster, Inc.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A courageous young noblewoman risks her life to hide French resistance fighters; seventy years later, her granddaughter visits the family’s abandoned chateau and uncovers shocking secrets from the past.
Gisèle Duchant guards a secret that could cost her life. Tunnels snake through the hill under her family’s medieval chateau in Normandy. Now, with Hitler’s army bearing down, her brother and several friends are hiding in the tunnels, resisting the German occupation of France.
But when German soldiers take over the family’s château, Gisèle is forced to host them as well—while harboring the resistance fighters right below their feet. Taking in a Jewish friend’s baby, she convinces the Nazis that it is her child, ultimately risking everything for the future of the child. When the German officers begin to suspect her deception, an unlikely hero rescues both her and the child.
A present day story weaves through the past one as Chloe Sauver, Gisèle’s granddaughter, arrives in Normandy. After calling off her engagement with a political candidate, Chloe pays a visit to the chateau to escape publicity and work with a documentary filmmaker, Riley, who has uncovered a fascinating story about Jews serving in Hitler’s army. Riley wants to research Chloe’s family history and the lives that were saved in the tunnels under their house in Normandy. Chloe is floored—her family isn’t Jewish, for one thing, and she doesn’t know anything about tunnels or the history of the house. But as she begins to explore the dark and winding passageways beneath the chateau, nothing can prepare her for the shock of what she and Riley discover…
With emotion and intrigue, Melanie Dobson brings World War II France to life in this beautiful novel about war, family, sacrifice, and the secrets of the past.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melanie Dobson is the award-winning author of thirteen historical romance, suspense, and contemporary novels. Two of her novels won Carol Awards in 2011, and Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana won Best Novel of Indiana in 2010. Melanie lives with her husband Jon and two daughters near Portland, Oregon. Visit her online at MelanieDobson.com.
by admin | May 9, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Food, Romance
MY REVIEW:
With a leisurely plot that is meant to be savored, “A Table by the Window” is an extraordinary reading experience. From the delightful quotes at the beginning of each chapter to the tempting heirloom recipes scattered through Juliette’s story, I enjoyed every page.
This novel provided an inside look behind the scenes of a successful restaurant as well as the many details involved in preparing to open a new restaurant. The family dynamics of the D’Alisa crew were wonderful with plenty of drama and humor to go around. I enjoyed Juliette’s journey of self-discovery and all the details of her online dating experience. A family mystery added even more interest and depth to the story.
I would love to try out some of the delicious looking recipes but am forcing myself to ignore them due to current dietary restrictions. My only other complaint is that I have to wait for the next installment of this series to find out what happens with Juliette and Neil. I don’t always enjoy the delay!
This book was provided for review by Blogging For Books.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Heirloom recipes, family secrets…and a chance for love
The youngest heir to a French-Italian restaurant dynasty, food writer Juliette D’Alisa has spent her life negotiating her skill with words and her restaurant aspirations. When her brother Nico offers her a chance to open a restaurant together, she feels torn—does she really have what it takes? Should she risk leaving her journalism career?
After the death of her grandmother, Juliette discovers an antique photograph of a man who looks strikingly like her brother. As the truth behind the picture reveals romance and dark secrets, Juliette struggles to keep the mystery away from her nosy family until she can uncover the whole story.
Inspired by her grandmother’s evolving story, Juliette resolves to explore the world of online dating. To her surprise, she finds a kindred spirit in Neil McLaren, a handsome immunologist based in Memphis, Tennessee. With a long-distance relationship simmering, Juliette faces life-shifting decisions. How can she possibly choose between a promising culinary life and Neil, a man a world away in more ways than one? And is it possible her Grandmother’s story can help show the way?
Read an excerpt from “A Table by the Window HERE.
Praise for A Table by the Window
“Food writer Juliette D’Alisa adores her temperamental, trilingual family of restaurateurs, but she could do without their bossy skepticism of her online love interest who’s so unlike them. Rainy, windy Portland has never felt quite as warm as it does when Juliette navigates long-distance romance, career decisions, and a genealogical mystery. A delectable tale from Hillary Manton Lodge, A Table by the Window includes recipes that are like a warm welcome to the D’Alisa family table.”
—Meg Moseley, author of Gone South and When Sparrows Fall
“Warm, witty, and a culinary delight! Hillary Manton Lodge’s crisp writing reminds me of a vintage romantic comedy but with contemporary appeal as the story unfolds with perfect pacing and recipes to make you drool. More than once I found myself wishing I had a pastry chef in my own kitchen. Wonderfully romantic in all the best ways!”
—Carla Stewart, award-winning author of Chasing Lilacs and Sweet Dreams
“Not since Under the Tuscan Sun have I read a book that I both tasted and felt to such an enchanting degree. Author Hillary Manton Lodge has woven a captivating tale of one woman’s quest to discover not only herself, but the truths behind an old-world family legacy. With a touch of whimsy, the perfect helping of romance, and a hearty sprinkle of laugh-out-loud humor, A Table by the Window is a delight.”
—Joanne Bischof, award-winning author of the Cadence of Grace series
“An endearing, smart, must-read novel! A Table by the Window is a delicious tale that had me slowing down so I could savor it longer. Major props to Hillary Manton Lodge for not only taking me on a beautiful journey alongside Juliette, but for making a non-foodie like myself want to take up a new hobby.”
—Katie Ganshert, award-winning author of Wildflowers from Winter and Wishing on Willows
“Hillary Manton Lodge combines a perfect voice, endearing characters, and delectable recipes into a heart-winning story. A Table by the Window hooked me from the first page to the very last word. Bravo, Hillary!”
—Leslie Gould, best-selling and Christy Award–winning author
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Hillary Manton Lodge is the author of Plain Jayne, a Carol Award Finalist, and Simply Sara, an ECPA bestselling book. A graduate of the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism, Hillary discovered the world of cuisine during her internship at Northwest Palate magazine. A storyteller at heart, in her free time she enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, watching foreign films, and exploring new walking trails. She and her husband live in Portland, Oregon.
by admin | May 9, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
The events described within “Fatal Exchange” could easily have come from the pages of current newspapers in cities across the U.S. In a world where school shootings or hostage situations are much too common and Hispanic drug cartels are on the rise inside our borders, many have become accustomed to hearing or seeing them on the news yet are often in denial that it could happen to them. Although fiction, “Fatal Exchange” offers the reader an up-close look at what it could be like to be at the center of such a dangerous incident.
The relationship between the two primary characters is complicated. Mason is an undercover detective who works with Emily Hunt’s sister Avery on the police force. Avery firmly believes that Mason is responsible for their brother Michael’s death and continues to look for evidence to prove it. Although most of Emily’s family has served in law enforcement, Emily does not have the stomach for it and loves working as a teacher. When Emily’s class is held hostage by a desperate student, she finds herself working with Mason to try to circumvent a disaster.
“Fatal Exchange” was so riveting that I read the entire book in one evening. The plot’s steady progression was filled with several unexpected twists and I never found a good spot to take a break from it. Character development was excellent and I enjoyed getting to know Mason and Emily as their true personalities and natures were exposed. Mason’s integrity and strength were apparent and Emily’s courage throughout the ordeal proved that she was stronger than she believed. With a strong theme about trusting God and forgiveness as well as a sweet romance “Fatal Exchange” is just about perfect. I anxiously await the final book in this series.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Desperate times create desperate people. And desperate people are dangerous . . .
Though Emily Hunt comes from a family of cops, the relatively quiet life of a high school teacher suits her just fine. She’s saving up to buy a house, slowly moving forward after her brother’s death, and settling into a life she loves. So the last person she wants to spend time with is Mason Taylor.
An undercover cop, Mason is enemy number one as far as her family is concerned. His involvement in the death of Emily’s brother is still up in the air, and now he expects her to help him with a case. Mason has been working with one of her students, Rafael Cerda, whose brother has been kidnapped by a drug cartel. And with time running out to meet their demands, Rafael is getting desperate.
Emily will have to draw on all of her strength to handle what happens next . . .
Fatal Exchange will draw you into a complex matrix of intertwining lives, unraveling secrets, and unexpected love.
Read an excerpt from Fatal Exchange HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Harris is a bestselling author, a Christy Award finalist, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 from Romantic Times. She has sold over thirty novels and novella collections. Along with her husband, she and her three children have spent over ten years living as missionaries in Africa where she homeschools, leads a women’s group, and runs a nonprofit organization that works alongside their church-planting ministry. The ECHO Project works in southern Africa promoting Education, Compassion, Health, and Opportunity and is a way for her to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves . . . the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice” (Proverbs 31:8).
When she’s not working, she loves hanging out with her family, cooking different ethnic dishes, photography, and heading into the African bush on safari. For more information about her books and life in Africa, visit her website at www.lisaharriswrites.com or her blog at http://myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.com. For more information about The ECHO Project, please visit www.theECHOproject.org.
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.
