by admin | Jun 1, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingJustifiedDavid C. Cook (June 1, 2015)byVarina Denman
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
An avid reader and blogger, Varina Denman enjoys writing fiction about Christian women and the unique struggles they face. She seems to have a knack for describing small town life, and is currently working on the three-book Mended Heart Series. The first book in the series, Jaded, won the 2013 ACFW Genesis contest for romance.
Varina attended three Texas universities over a span of five years, majoring in four subjects and earning zero degrees. However, she can now boast sixteen years as a home educator, volunteering in the local cooperative where she has taught numerous subjects including creative writing and literature.
Even though Varina has spoken at ladies’ retreats and taught women’s Bible classes, she finds the greatest fulfillment facilitating prayer groups. She lives in Burleson, Texas, where she helps with Family Ministry in her home congregation. Varina is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and North Texas Christian Writers.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In a small Texas town ruled by gossip, Fawn Blaylock believes others are justified in condemning her untimely pregnancy. Stifled by guilt, she yearns for grace while the local football coach treats her with gentle respect.
Justified perfectly captures the rhythm and romance of life in a small town, telling the unforgettable story of a woman searching for renewal, a man looking beyond what others see, and a community torn between judgment and love. It is the unforgettable story of broken dreams, second chances, and relentless hope.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Justified, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Justified is the second book in Denman’s Mended Hearts Series. The story seems to overlap the one that began in the first novel Jaded, and contains most of the characters introduced there. Fawn Blaylock is the featured character in Justified so readers will learn more about her story as well as those of Tyler, JohnScott, and Clyde. An added bonus is catching up with what is going on with Ruthie, Dodd, Grant, and several others.
When I read Jaded, I was not particularly impressed with Fawn’s character. In fact, she seemed to be one of those stuck-up, rich mean girls who are not very pleasant to be around. As I got deeper into this novel, it was easier to see the real person inside who was insecure and always seeking to gain her father’s approval. And who would ever have guessed that the popular head football coach JohnScott had his own lack of confidence, especially when it came to women? It’s also humorous to me that I didn’t like Ruthie nearly as well from Fawn’s point of view.
Justified is a novel laced with drama, romance, and family secrets. I found myself a bit aggravated with certain characters at times but I feel that it is an indication of a well-written book when I can get that involved with the characters. This novel deals with some hard topics such as abusive relationships and out-of-wedlock pregnancy but the situations are handled well. I liked how the author didn’t take the easy way out at the end by letting a particular character die but used the event to pave the way toward forgiveness and redemption.
by admin | May 30, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Love Inspired, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
Once again Katy Lee has invited me to visit the Stepping Stone Islands where Gretchen Bauer has agreed to allow a home improvement television crew film an episode at her Victorian house in hopes that they can restore it in time to open her Bed and Breakfast. Unfortunately, it seems that her fellow islanders are not in favor of her plans and someone wants her dead or injured.
Irish television host Colm McCrae did not exactly impress me at the beginning because of his flippant attitude. It didn’t take very long, however, for Colm’s true colors to show themselves even if it took Gretchen awhile to trust him. Of course with her experience with men, who could blame her if she never trusted another one?
Katy weaves a fine suspense in this short Love Inspired novel with more than adequate character development and an attention-holding plot. With plenty of action, danger, romance, and surprises, “Permanent Vacancy” further convinced me that Katy Lee’s novels are not to be missed.
This book was provided for review by the author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Gretchen Bauer begins renovating an old Victorian house to turn it into a bed-and-breakfast, she barely escapes several dangerous “accidents” at her home. Colm McCrae, host of the home improvement TV show helping her renovate, refuses to believe these aren’t on purpose. Could this be a harmful ploy by his boss to boost ratings? Yet with Colm’s smooth-talking Irish brogue, Gretchen wonders whether he could be involved. But with a whole town full of neighbors disgruntled about the inn bringing strangers to their shores, Gretchen has a list of more likely suspects. Now she must trust Colm if she wants to keep her new business venture from turning into a five-star death trap.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Katy Lee writes suspenseful romances that thrill and inspire. She believes every story should stir and satisfy the reader–from the edge of their seat. A native New Englander, Katy loves to knit warm wooly things. She enjoys traveling the side-roads and exploring the locals’ hideaways. A homeschooling mom of three competitive swimmers, Katy often writes from the stands while cheering them on.
Visit Katy at: www.KatyLeeBooks.com.
by admin | May 29, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas
MY REVIEW:
Although I’ve never been there, there is a special place in my heart for Texas. I’m not sure exactly why – maybe all the westerns I watched with my Dad as a kid. But even the books that don’t feature cowboys appeal to me because I know enough people who live in Texas to know that they are not all on the ranch. Cabot’s Texas Crossroads series has no cowboys in particular but is really fun to read.
I loved “On Bluebonnet Lake”, the first book of the series, and I have enjoyed revisiting the Rainbow’s End resort to catch up on its characters and to see how things are going with the renovations. In the second book of the series, “In Firefly Valley” I was introduced to two new characters, Marisa, daughter of the resort cook Carmen and Blake, a friend of Greg, the resort owner.
Blake is a best-selling novelist who has hit the dreaded writer’s block and decided to try his friend’s somewhat isolated resort to see if it might boost his creative juices. Marisa has recently lost her job and has moved back to her hometown to take what she hopes will be a temporary job at Rainbow’s End. Of course regular readers of romance can guess that the two of them will end up together but what fun would that be without a good story leading up to happily-ever-after?
Marisa has numerous issues she needs to deal with – especially unforgiveness toward the alcoholic father who abandoned her and her mother. Her attitude is less than stellar and it doesn’t take very much to set her off. Despite his success, Blake has his own less than ideal childhood memories that have more influence on him than he wants to believe. During the course of the book, each of them must deal with their past and move on to be the people God designed them to be.
“In Firefly Valley” is an easily read and enjoyable book. The pace is unhurried with little action or suspense, but is more like a relaxing escape. For true lovers of romance, there is a bonus love story that is nearly as enjoyable as the one between Marisa and Blake. This is the perfect book for a weekend at the lake, beach, or the mountains. It is even the perfect book for relaxing with at home.
This book was provided for review by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
She’s lost her dream job–but has she found the man of her dreams?
Devastated by a downsizing, Marisa St. George has no choice but to return to the small Texas town where she grew up. Though it means a giant step backward, she accepts a position as business manager at the struggling Rainbow’s End resort. The only silver lining: Blake Kendall, a new guest who might make her believe in love at first sight. But will Marisa’s dreams of happily-ever-after be turned upside down when she discovers Blake’s real identity?
This warm and witty story of dreams deferred and mistaken identity will have you believing in second chances.
Praise for Amanda Cabot
“Amanda is a master at creating authentic characters with foibles and dreams.”–Jane Kirkpatrick, New York Times bestselling author of A Light in the Wilderness
“Uplifting and inspiring, the story speaks to the way nostalgia wisely finds a place in the modern world.”–Publishers Weekly starred review of At Bluebonnet Lake
by admin | May 29, 2015 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Florida
MY REVIEW:
I have read two or three Amish books lately with a setting in Pinecraft, Florida. It has been both eye-opening and refreshing to read about Amish and Mennonite life there. I can just see the young people in their traditional attire walking around in flip-flops! Shelley Shepard Gray takes the freedom of the beach a step further by featuring a character who is somewhat of a Mennonite celebrity. I can honestly say that is not something I would have ever imagined.
Both Penny and Michael have experienced tragedy in their lives so when they become acquainted, they immediately sense a bond. Michael is especially attracted to Penny’s innocence and caring personality. At an age when most people their age are already married with children, Michael and Penny have not had a chance for courtship or love because of family expectations. They meet at a time when each of them has grown dissatisfied with their lives and are yearning for independence.
“The Proposal at Siesta Key” is a sweet love story that is not without a few hurdles. The characters are all quite likeable and natural. I liked the way Penny and Michael honored their parents while working to break the apron strings. Their quiet faith was an important part of their story but did not come across as preachy.
I highly recommend this novel as well as all of Gray’s books. Lovers of Amish fiction will certainly enjoy it.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A young Amish woman, yearning for freedom, crosses paths with a handsome Mennonite celebrity in a deeply moving tale of friendship and self-discovery—the second installment in the unforgettable New York Times bestselling author’s new Amish Brides of Pinecraft series.
Penny Troyer rarely disobeys her parents. In the years since her sister’s tragic death, they’ve wanted nothing more than to keep her safe…even if it means never leaving the house.
But tonight, she’s bending the rules because Michael Knoxx, the most famous member of The Knoxx Family Singers, a traveling Mennonite Evangelical family —is scheduled to speak. Penny has heard of Michael—how he lost part of his leg in a terrible accident and uses the experience to inspire others—and knows she must meet him. So, for the first time ever, Penny stands up to her parents and goes out on her own.
Though he speaks about living life to the fullest, Michael knows he needs to take his own advice. Life on the road is grueling and Michael wants to slow down, to rest…to perhaps meet someone who sees him as a man, not just a celebrity. So when a twist of fate allows him the chance to stay a little longer in Pinecraft, Michael knows God is showing him a new path, especially when he discovers how much he and Penny Troyer have in common.
But new friendships can’t stop time. Soon, Michael’s time in Pinecraft will be over and he’ll be back on the road. Her time with Michael has brought her happiness, but will she be able to follow her heart? Or will she be faced with the one thing she’s sure she’ll never have the courage to do?
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Shelley Shepard Gray is a two-time New York Times bestseller, a two-time USA Today bestseller, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time Holt Medallion winner. She lives in Southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.
Find out more about Shelley at http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
by admin | May 27, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
“As Waters Gone By” is one of the most beautiful and touching novels I have experienced in quite awhile. Its pages are filled with unique and sometimes quirky but lovable characters that somehow manage to encourage and bring hope and healing, even in the midst of darkness and despair.
Emmalyn’s life has been turned upside down. Not only has her husband spent the past five years in prison but she has lost her job, her income, and their home. With nothing left but a tiny, run-down cabin they had purchased, Emmalyn pulls up her roots and moves to the Madeline Island to try to make sense of her life and marriage. While there she encounters a free spirit with the outrageous name of Boozie Unfortunate who absolutely does not live up to her name. Another islander, Cora also becomes a part of Emmalyn’s circle of friends. Their friendship and encouragement gradually bring Emmalyn to a place of contentment and peace.
Each and every character plays a major role in this remarkable story about a journey to restoration and hope through faith. I actually do not feel that my words can adequately express how excellent this novel is. This is one you positively MUST read for yourself!
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
How can a marriage survive when separated by hundreds of miles and impenetrable prison walls?
Emmalyn and Max Ross may have to endure the fight of their lives to mend the tattered fabric of their marriage. His actions ensured she could never be a mother and put him in prison, giving their relationship a court-mandated five-year time-out. On a self-imposed exile to beautiful but remote Madeline Island, one of the Apostle Islands of Lake Superior, Emmalyn has just a few months left to figure out if and how they can ever be a couple again.
Nudged along by the exuberant owner of the Wild Iris Inn and Café, a circle of misfit people in their small town, and a young girl who desperately needs someone to love her, Emmalyn restores an island cottage that could become a home and begins to restore her heart by learning what it means to love unconditionally. Yet even as hope begins to find a place within the cottage walls, Emmalyn still wonders if she’s ready for Max’s release. She may be able to rebuild a cottage, but can she rebuild a marriage?
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Cynthia Ruchti has more than three decades of radio broadcast experience with “Heartbeat of the Home” radio and currently serves as Professional Relations Liaison for American Christian Fiction Writers. Find Cynthia on the Web at www.cynthiaruchti.com.
Find out more about Cynthia at http://www.cynthiaruchti.com.
Cynthia Ruchti’s Summer of Fun $100 Giveaway
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Suggested Title: Cynthia Ruchti’s Hemmed in Hope Giveaway
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SUGGESTED TITLE: Cynthia Ruchti’s ‘As Waters Gone By’ Summer of Fun $100 Giveaway
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Can a marriage survive when separated by hundreds of miles and impenetrable prison walls? Find out in Cynthia Ruchti’s new book, As Waters Gone By. Emmalyn and Max Ross may have to endure the fight of their lives to mend the tattered fabric of their marriage. His actions ensured she could never be a mother and put him in prison, giving their relationship a court-mandated five-year time-out.
Cynthia is celebrating the release of As Waters Gone By by giving away a summer of fun to one lucky reader!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A $100 cash card to put toward your trip to Madeline Island (discover the beauty of the setting of As Waters Gone By) or your summer vacation destination
- A book-club set (10 copies of As Waters Gone By and a downloadable starter kit) so you can start your own summer book club
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 10th. The winner will be announced June 11th on Cynthia’s blog.
Plus, now through mid-July, sign up for Cynthia’s mailing list for a five-day virtual tour around Madeline Island for the chance to win a Hemmed in Hope prize pack. Each day begins with an email from Cynthia that introduces where you’ll be “visiting” that day (all key places from As Waters Gone By) with various interactive elements, including“I wish you were here” postcards, trivia quizzes, and an ongoing Island scavenger hunt. The person who interacts the most will win a Hemmed in Hope prize pack (valued at more than $200). That includes:
- The letterpress block Hope sign from DaySpring
- A set of 6 Hemmed in Hope notecards showing a hope-themed Bible verse
- A leather “I can’t unravel, I’m hemmed in hope” journal
- Signed copies of each of Cynthia’s books, fiction and non-fiction
by admin | May 26, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
Having read previous books by Lisa Carter, I was eager to jump into another of her mystery/suspense novels. In the others, I have enjoyed the realistic plots and settings as well as well-rounded characters and complex relationships. I was not disappointed in “Vines of Entanglement”.
As the story opens, Laura Mabry finds a body on the trail that runs behind her house. To her surprise and horror, the murder victim is her employee …and Laura learns that investigators suspect that she could be responsible. To make matters worse, the lead detective turns out to be a man with whom Laura has a romantic past – a man she had hoped to never see again.
Not only is “Vines of Entanglement” a murder mystery but it is also somewhat of a romantic mystery also. During the course of the investigation, the story of Laura and Jon’s past is gradually revealed. A story where the past collides with the present and secrets and lies are revealed, this novel is one that held my interest until the very end. A strong message of faith is woven deftly throughout the story which makes it all the more relevant for me.
This book was provided for review by Amazon Vine.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A tangled web of lies characterizes the life Laura Mabry has built for herself and her son after the tragic death of her husband. But Laura’s carefully constructed world slides off its axis when she stumbles upon the body of a young college student on the recreational trails of Raleigh’s Greenway. What’s worse, Detective Jon Locklear is Laura’s worst nightmare…and her dream come true.
Jon has spent years trying to forget Laura. Past experience has taught him that he can’t trust her, but old habits—like old loves—die hard. When the killer turns his attention on Laura, Jon may be the only one who can save her.
Truth and murder lurk just around the corner for Laura. Can she find the courage to face her deepest fears and unravel the lies of her past before she and her son become the Greenway Killer’s next victims.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Carter is the author of Carolina Reckoning and Aloha Rose, and a writer and teacher whose articles have appeared in FamilyFun, Thriving Family, MomSense, and Christian Parenting Today. She is a frequent speaker and vocalist at women’s ministry events and has taught at the collegiate, high school, and middle school levels. Lisa is a member of ACFW, RWA and Sisters in Crime. When she isn’t writing, Lisa enjoys traveling, quilting, and researching her next romantic adventure. She and her husband have two daughters and make their home in Raleigh, North Carolina. Visit her online at LisaCarterAuthor.com.
