by admin | Jul 14, 2015 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I was so charmed by Millie’s character in “After a Fashion” that I couldn’t wait to read her own story. Well, I finally had the chance and as expected I loved it. My only complaint is that it ended much too soon and now I have to wait again for the next volume of this wonderful series.
Millie’s character brought back memories of my grandmother who was feisty, funny, and had a similar tendency to get words mixed up. We still laugh about the time she told us that a person must be scenic but meant psychic. With all her fun-loving ways, I would like to think that in her younger days my grandmother may have been much like Millie.
Aside from my personal memories, “In Good Company” absolutely lived up to my expectations. It was humorous, romantic, and entertaining yet did not fail to impart a spiritual message as well. Peppered with numerous laugh-out-loud scenes from the very beginning, the story captured my interest and wouldn’t let go until the final page. I loved touching base with characters from “After a Fashion”, several of whom continued to play strong supporting roles.
Jen Turano is my go-to author when I need a light-hearted book that will be sure to cheer up the darkest mood. If you haven’t tried one of her novels, please do yourself a favor and pick up one (or all) of them.
This book was provided for review by the author through
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After growing up as an orphan, Millie Longfellow is determined to become the best nanny the East Coast has ever seen. Unfortunately, her playfulness and enthusiasm aren’t always well-received and she finds herself dismissed from yet another position.
Everett Mulberry has quite unexpectedly become guardian to three children that scare off every nanny he hires. About to depart for Newport, Rhode Island, for the summer, he’s desperate for competent childcare.
At wit’s end with both Millie and Everett, the employment agency gives them one last chance–with each other. As Millie falls in love with her mischievous charges, Everett focuses on achieving the coveted societal status of the upper echelons. But as he investigates the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of the children’s parents, will it take the loss of those he loves to learn whose company he truly wants for the rest of his life?
Read an excerpt from In Good Company.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jen Turano, author of six books, is a graduate of the University of Akron with a degree in clothing and textiles. She is a member of ACFW and lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado. Visit her website at www.jenturano.com.
by admin | Jul 14, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Law Enforcement, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
“Gone Without a Trace” is the second book I’ve read recently that featured a female detective and a PI who she immediately disliked. Fortunately the plots were anything but similar and I enjoyed both books.
The perpetrator in “Gone Without a Trace” was one messed up guy and the reader is given glimpses into his mind at various points during the book. I found it impossible to settle on the guilty party because every time I thought I had it figured out, a little more information was given about another character that directed suspicion in his direction also. I thought the author was genius in misleading the reader and the conclusion is both surprising and horrifying.
“Gone Without a Trace” is an exciting read from the beginning to its end. I thought the characters were strong and realistic and the suspense was broken by a developing romance (of course). I loved the way one disappearance was resolved earlier in the story and how that character helped solve the other case.
I highly recommend “Gone Without a Trace” to anyone who enjoys a good romantic suspense.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The past is repeating itself–and time is running out
It’s been more than two years since homicide detective Livy Reynolds’s cousin disappeared from Logan Point. Unlike most people in her hometown, Livy has never believed that Robyn left voluntarily. When Dallas private investigator Alex Jennings contacts her concerning a senator’s missing granddaughter who was last seen in Logan Point, Livy notices eerie similarities between the two disappearances. With self-doubt plaguing her and an almost instant dislike of the self-assured PI, she’s finding this investigation an uphill battle. But with the prospect of finding her cousin on the horizon, she’ll have to find a way to work with Alex–before it’s too late.
Award-winning author Patricia Bradley keeps you on the edge of your seat with a case–and a relationship–that is anything but certain.
Read an excerpt from Gone Without a Trace.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Patricia Bradley is the author of Shadows of the Past, A Promise to Protect, and Gone without a Trace. Bradley has been a finalist for the Genesis Award, winner of a Daphne du Maurier Award, and winner of a Touched by Love Award. Bradley is a published short story writer and cofounder of Aiming for Healthy Families, Inc. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America, and makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at www.ptbradley.com.
by admin | Jul 13, 2015 | Books, Children, Mystery
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingJack Staples and the Ring of TimeDavid C. Cook (September 1, 2014)byMark Batterson and Joel Clark
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Mark Batterson serves as lead pastor of National Community Church (www.theaterchurch.com) in Washington, DC. One church with seven locations. NCC is focused on reaching emerging generations and meets in theaters throughout the DC metro area. NCC also owns and operates the largest coffeehouse on Capitol Hill. Mark holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Regent University and is the New York Times bestselling author of 11 books, including The Circle Maker, In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, Wild Goose Chase and the two most recent, The Grave Robber and Jack Staples and the Ring of Time. Mark is married to Lora and they live on Capitol Hill with their three children: Parker, Summer, and Josiah.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Eleven-year-old Jack’s ordinary life is upended when mysterious creatures attack his hometown and he is whisked into a fantastical adventure filled with danger at every turn.
Jack learns that most live in a shadow of the world, their vision blinded by invisible scales that have covered human eyes since the beginning of time. But the Awakened experience the world as it truly is, where war rages between good and evil—and Jack is at the heart of it. The Awakened are searching for The Child of Prophesy who will both save the world and destroy it. When Jack joins in their epic battle he must learn to trust his friends and face his fears if he is to make his life count.
If you’d like to read the first chapter of Jack Staples and the Ring of Time, go HERE.
by admin | Jul 12, 2015 | Books, England, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I found Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor to be a riveting story that spanned three generations of women of one family. Although the story moved from past to present frequently, I never had a problem keeping up with the plot. I loved how the author put the story together with Heather discovering family secrets when she returned home to settle her father’s estate.
I also liked how those secrets were doled out one at a time as I learned new facts about each of the women that eventually resulted in more than one huge surprise – surprises that revealed just how closely the histories of these women were entwined and how similar their lives had evolved.
With ample drama, renewed romance, a touch of mystery, and a faith-based plot, Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor contained every element that I require in a good book. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and recommend it.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Uncover a plethora of secrets and a mystery that tie two families together in Melanie Dobson’s new book, Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor. Years ago, the body of Oliver Croft, heir of Lord Croft of Ladenbrooke Manor, was found drowned in the River Coln. Authorities searched for answers, but no one was ever held responsible for Oliver’s death.
When Heather Toulson returns to her parents’ cottage in the English countryside, she uncovers long-hidden secrets about her family history and stumbles onto the truth about a sixty-year-old murder.
Libby, a free spirit who can’t be tamed by her parents, finds solace with her neighbor Oliver, the son of Lord Croft of Ladenbrooke Manor. Libby finds herself pregnant and alone when her father kicks her out and Oliver mysteriously drowns in a nearby river. Though theories spread across the English countryside, no one is ever held responsible for Oliver’s death.
Sixty years later, Heather Toulson, returning to her family’s cottage in the shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor, is filled with mixed emotions. She’s mourning her father’s passing but can’t let go of the anger and resentment over their strained relationship. Adding to her confusion, Heather has an uneasy reunion with her first love, all while sorting through her family’s belongings left behind in the cottage. What she uncovers will change everything she thought she knew about her family’s history.
Award-winning author Melanie Dobson seamlessly weaves the past and present together, fluidly unraveling the decades-old mystery and reveals how the characters are connected in shocking ways.
Set in a charming world of thatched cottages, lush gardens, and lovely summer evenings, this romantic and historical mystery brings to light the secrets and heartaches that have divided a family for generations.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
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.
Find out more about Melanie at http://www.melaniedobson.com.
by admin | Jul 8, 2015 | Books, Nonfiction, Photography
MY REVIEW:
John Shaw’s Guide to Digital Nature Photography is a handbook that could be beneficial to both inexperienced and experienced photographers. It is jam-packed with information that begins with suggestions about which equipment to purchase and concludes with a chapter on photo editing.
Each chapter is illustrated with gorgeous photos taken by the author that highlight whatever aspect of photography is being discussed. There is too much information in this book to read once and find yourself ready to take prize-winning photos. This is a manual that can be referred to again and again, not only for tips but for another look at those fantastic photos.
I feel that I learned a good bit during my initial scan through its pages and will be checking in again for answers to specific questions as I practice my photography skills.
This book was provided for review by Blogging for Books.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Photography legend John Shaw returns with his much-anticipated guide to digital nature photography, complete with more than 250 extraordinarily beautiful photographs.
For over four decades, John Shaw’s authentic voice and trusted advice has helped photographers achieve impressive shots in the great outdoors. In his first-ever book on digital photography, Shaw provides in-depth advice on everything from equipment and lenses to thorough coverage of digital topics including how to use the histogram. In addition, he offers inspirational and frank insight that goes far beyond the nuts and bolts of photography, explaining that successful photos come from having a vision, practicing, and then acquiring the equipment needed to accomplish the intention. Easily digestible and useful for every type of photographer, and complete with more than 250 jaw-dropping images, John Shaw’s Guide to Digital Nature Photography is the one book you’ll need to beautifully capture the world around you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
JOHN SHAW is the author of many enduring bestsellers, including seven previous books on nature photography. His work is frequently featured in National Geographic, Nature’s Best, National Wildlife, Outdoor Photographer, Natural History, Sierra, and Audubon magazines, as well as in calendars, books, and advertisements. He has photographed on every continent, from the Arctic to the Antarctic, and leads sold-out workshops around the globe. Visit him at johnshawphoto.com.
by admin | Jul 7, 2015 | Books, Historical, Miracles
MY REVIEW:
When I agreed to review “The Pilgrim” I was actually unaware of its subject. My past experience with Davis Bunn’s novels is that I can expect them to hold my interest and to be very well researched. I have read so many of them that I do not hesitate when a new one is released. I grew up in a small, southern, rural community where almost everyone went to a Protestant church – usually Baptist, Methodist, or Presbyterian so I had very little knowledge of the Catholic faith. I went into this book with absolutely no clue about Empress Helena and very limited memory about her son Constantine, but I am so thankful I had the opportunity to get to know her through its pages.
What a lady! I can only wish that my faith and determination to live it could be even a fraction of the amount of faith Helena possessed. Her pilgrimage to Jerusalem and her firm belief in the vision she received from God were inspirational. Her strength and love motivated an ever-growing group of pilgrims whose faith grew as a result. I couldn’t help but think how different our world today might be if Christians worked together in the same way and were an example to those who were yet to believe.
“The Pilgrim” is a story for everyone. It may be the story of a Catholic saint but her trust in the Lord to take care of her as she followed the path as He directed is an example to all those who claim to follow Christ.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from
Franciscan Media in exchange for my honest review.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Travel with Empress Helena, mother of the emperor Constantine the Great, on a perilous journey through ancient Judea to Jerusalem.
Abandoned by her husband, in danger because of her faith, but with an implacable will to do what God calls her to, Helena meets those who would help and harm her along the way. Miracles seem to follow this humble but determined woman as she wins many over to the faith, and changes lives forever—including her own. This unforgettable story is a vivid portrait of one of Christian history’s most important women.
Free sample of The Pilgrim by Davis Bunn
ISBN-10: 1632530341
ISBN-13: 978-1632530349
Hardcover and Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Franciscan Media
Publication Date: July 17, 2015
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Davis Bunn is an award-winning novelist with total worldwide sales of seven million copies.
His work has been published in twenty languages, and critical acclaim includes four Christy Awards for excellence in fiction and his 2014 induction into the Christy Hall of Fame.
Davis divides his time between Florida and England, where he serves as Writer In Residence at Regent’s Park College at The University of Oxford. Visit Davis at http://www.davisbunn.com.
Q&A With Davis Bunn, author of The Pilgrim
Q: There are many legends about Constantine and his mother, Helena. How did you decide which legend to incorporate into the story?
Davis Bunn: The period when Constantine became the first Christian emperor is one about which so much has been written, and yet so little detail is known. No one knows for certain where his mother, Helena – the main character in The Pilgrim – was born. There are three main legends, and I used the one that has the greatest sense of historical resonance, that she was British, and her father ruled one of the provinces taken over by the Romans. Her husband was a general who met Helena in the local market and fell in love at first sight.
Q: What is the appeal of writing about a historical figure? What was one special challenge you faced in doing so?
First and foremost, Helena is a saint in the eyes of the Catholic church. Her son, Emperor Constantine, was the first Roman leader to convert to Christianity. His death marked the moment when Christians were freed from persecution. Constantine was led to faith by his mother. The Pilgrim is her story.
While I am a fervent evangelical Protestant, my wife is Catholic. My mother is a Catholic convert. As is my sister, who has raised her two daughters as Catholic. So part of what I wanted to do here was to grow closer to the heritage that these dear people treasure. Their faith has had such an impact on my own life. It was important that I use this story and this opportunity to create something that would honor their perspective on faith. I also wanted to share with readers the enormous life lessons we can learn from the lives of the saints.
So many, many different issues came up as a result of this quest. It proved to be a beautiful and intense growing experience. Although this book is not particularly long, the actual writing took as long as some of my much bigger books. Part of this was honing the story so their faith, and their history, was honored, but done from a foundation that reflected my own personal walk in faith.
My hope, my fervent prayer, is that the story will resonate with readers from both faith communities.
Q: The end of The Pilgrim leaves the reader wanting more. Will you revisit this story down the road?
I am working on a second book, The Fragment, which is scheduled for publication in the spring of 2016. The Fragment carries some of the concepts from The Pilgrim into the early twentieth century, when the U.S. came to possess a reliquary with a supposed component of Jesus’s cross. It ends in a vignette that happens today, when a couple travels to Rome.
Q: How can readers find you on the Internet?
Website: http://www.davisbunn.com/
Subscribe to Davis’s e-newsletter: Send a blank email to davisbunn@aweber.com
Receive Davis’s latest blog posts via your feed reader: http://feeds.feedburner.com/DavisBunn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davisbunnauthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/davisbunn
Twitter: https://twitter.com/davisbunn
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/davisbunn/
