by admin | May 15, 2013 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Jennifer: An O’Malley Love StoryBethany House Publishers (May 1, 2013)byDee HendersonABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dee Henderson is the bestselling, award-winning author of 15 previous novels, including the acclaimed O’MALLEY series and UNCOMMON HEROES series. These days, most authors are out there energetically promoting their books in print and broadcast and via social media—wherever they can get attention. But Dee Henderson keeps a low profile. She avoids telephone interviews because of hearing problems, declined to provide a current photo, and will say only that she lives in Illinois.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
It’s a summer of change for Jennifer O’Malley. The busy physician has a pediatrics practice in Dallas, and meeting Tom Peterson, and falling in love, is adding a rich layer to her life. She’s sorting out how to introduce him to her family–she’s the youngest of seven–and thinking about marriage.
She’s falling in love with Jesus too, and knows God is good. But that faith is about to be tested in a way she didn’t expect, and the results will soon transform her entire family.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Jennifer: An O’Malley Love Story, go to HERE.
MY REVIEW:
The prequel to the long-time favorite O’Malley series by Dee Henderson, Jennifer: An O’Malley Love Story is the short and sweet love story of doctors Jennifer O’Malley and Tom Peterson. Sister to the other O’Malleys who are each featured in romantic suspense novels originally published between 1999 and 2003, Jennifer appeared in many if not all of the books but never had one of her own.
A dedicated doctor who spends her days trying to prevent the complications that endanger her young patients who suffer from cancer or other life-threatening diseases, Jennifer has wasted little time thinking about love until she meets surgeon Tom Peterson. His calm confidence and caring nature appeals to her and their friendship quickly develops into a more serious relationship. Tom also invites her to visit his church with him and patiently answers her questions about his faith while allowing her space to make her own decisions.
As I read and loved the O’Malley series during the early 2000’s, I do not remember very many details but can remember some of Jennifer’s story. I enjoyed reading her back story in this newly published novella. At less than two hundred pages, I was able to read Jennifer: An O’Malley Love Story in a couple of hours. I liked learning about the beginnings of the faith the entire O’Malley family eventually embraced, especially the way Tom explained his faith to Jennifer. Those familiar with other O’Malley series books will not be particularly surprised at developments near the end but I’ll leave that for readers to learn on their own by reading this novel.
If you are a lover of Dee Henderson books, you will not want to miss this one. Just be aware that it is primarily a short love story without the suspense of the full length novels of the series.
by admin | May 15, 2013 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingLast Chance for JusticeB&H Books (May 1, 2013)byKathi MaciasABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kathi Macias is a multi-award winning writer who has authored nearly 40 books and ghostwritten several others. A former newspaper columnist and string reporter, Kathi has taught creative and business writing in various venues and has been a guest on many radio and television programs. Kathi is a popular speaker at churches, women’s clubs and retreats, and writers’ conferences. She won the 2008 Member of the Year award from AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association) and was the 2011 Author of the Year from BooksandAuthors.net. Her novel set in China, Red Ink, was named Golden Scrolls 2011 Novel of the Year and was also a Carol Award Finalist; her October 2012 release, Unexpected Christmas Hero, was named 2012 Book of the Year by BookandAuthors.net. Kathi “Easy Writer” Macias lives in Homeland, CA, with her husband.
Kathi is passionate about The Voice of the Martyrs and Open Doors. To learn more about the persecuted church, please visit VOM’s website and Open Doors Website.
Learn more about Kathi and her books on her Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Welcome to Bloomfield, where life is simple, love is real, and stories are shared.
Lynn Myers is still reeling from losing her husband of thirty-five years when word comes that her only sibling, an older brother, has also died. With no one else to settle the estate, she must return to her small hometown of Bloomfield, however briefly, to settle his affairs.
Lynn’s daughter, Rachel, has just graduated from Bible college and with no other commitments comes along to sort through her uncle’s huge old home, right next to the local cemetery.
It isn’t long before Rachel has two men — a handsome CPA and the youth pastor — seriously vying for her attention. At the same time, Lynn’s attention is drawn to a set of journals her brother has left behind detailing a long-standing Bloomfield mystery.
As they pursue solving this mystery, Rachel must make some personal decisions about her future, while Lynn is forced to face unexpected issues from her own past.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Last Chance for Justice, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
I’ve heard it said that you can’t go home again but since I have never lived over twenty miles from where I grew up, I have no experience to prove or disprove that statement. However, in Last Chance for Justice Lynn Myers gets a chance to find out if it is possible when she inherits her older brother’s estate in Bloomfield. So depressed since her husband’s death that she just wants to climb in bed and sleep all the time, Lynn is encouraged by her recent college graduate daughter to embark on an adventure together to Bloomfield to settle the estate. It doesn’t take long before the familiar small town begins to grow on her and both Lynn and Rachel find themselves hesitant to leave the charming town. An unsolved mystery that has hung over the town for many years and two young men who are interested in a relationship with Rachel also influence their decision to stay just awhile longer.
Last Chance for Justice is somewhat different than other novels I have read by this author but I found it delightful. I loved the close mother/daughter relationship between Lynn and Rachel. The story included a good variety of characters from feisty older waitress Jolene, to weird Jason the cemetery grounds keeper, to the town gossip, and the two charming young men interested in Rachel. I have to admit that I was rooting for the youth pastor all along. A strong thread of faith was deftly woven throughout the narrative with Rachel frequently reminding her mother that they needed to pray before making decisions. The romantic content was both sweet and sensible and the mystery would fall into the “cozy” category. All-in-all, Last Chance for Justice was a relaxing and enjoyable experience and would be just right for summer vacation or a long weekend.
by admin | May 13, 2013 | Books
MY REVIEW:
For anyone who has ever wished they had been around to experience the wonders of the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago, DeAnne Gist’s newest novel “It Happened at the Fair” offers a fictional account through the experiences of inventor Cullen McNamara and teacher Della Wentworth who each spent six months working in exhibits there. Well researched descriptions of the grounds and events are accompanied by actual photos and drawings from the fair. Although the story itself is fictional, it is filled with historical facts.
“It Happened at the Fair” is somewhat different than the other books I have read by this author. It is related from both Cullen and Della’s point of view. In fact this book seems to be written more from Cullen’s viewpoint than Della’s. I have always enjoyed the humor in DeAnne’s novels. Although there is a certain amount of humor in this one, it has a more somber note as a whole which is certainly understandable due to the circumstances of the primary characters. Cullen is a farmer who is allergic to nearly everything he comes in contact with during planting and harvest seasons. On top of that he is quickly losing his hearing. His father has gambled nearly everything to send Cullen to exhibit his automatic sprinkler system at the fair so Cullen is under pressure to succeed. When he continues to lose potential customers due to his inability to hear what they say in the extremely loud exhibit hall, he convinces Della, a teacher of deaf children, to help him learn to read lips as they explore the fair together after their work hours. Cullen soon finds himself attracted to Della despite a fiance waiting back home. With such an uncertain future what is a man to do?
Despite the difference in “It Happened at the Fair” and the author’s previous books, I did enjoy it. After all, variety is the spice of life and I for one would become quickly bored if each author’s books were always the same. I feel that this particular book illustrates Gist’s research skill and her ability to pen a more serious novel. I still love her light-hearted romances and hope she will offer more of them in the future but she has proven herself to be an author of many talents. I hope you will give “It Happened at the Fair” a try.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A transporting historical novel about a promising young inventor, his struggle with loss, and the attractive teacher who changes his life, all set against the razzle-dazzle of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.
Gambling everything, including the family farm, Cullen McNamara travels to the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair with his most recent invention. But the noise in the Fair’s Machinery Palace makes it impossible to communicate with potential buyers. In an act of desperation, he hires Della Wentworth, a teacher of the deaf, to tutor him in the art of lip-reading.
The young teacher is reluctant to participate, and Cullen has trouble keeping his mind on his lessons while intently watching her lips. Like the newly invented Ferris Wheel, he is caught in a whirl between his girl back home, his dreams as an inventor, and his unexpected attraction to his new tutor. Can he keep his feet on the ground, or will he be carried away?
Purchase a copy here.
Read an excerpt.
Read the Press Kit
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Deeanne Gist—known to her family, friends, and fans as Dee—has rocketed up bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her very fun, very original historicals. She has received numerous RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, and rave reviews. Deeanne has a background in education and journalism and a degree from Texas A&M. She has written for “People,” “Parents,” and “Parenting.” She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and has four grown children. She has a very active online community on her website at IWantHerBook.com.
by admin | May 10, 2013 | Books, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I have enjoyed books by Lynette Eason since I first discovered her Love Inspired Suspense novels. The previous two installments of the Deadly Reunions series left me wanting more so I was excited at the chance to review “When a Secret Kills”. As the exciting conclusion of the suspenseful mystery that threatened the lives of Jillian Carter and her friends, “When a Secret Kills” was even better than I could have expected.
Once again, Lynette has skillfully built her plot to a satisfying climax with totally unexpected twists. I loved that even some of the villains were surprised that everything they had believed for ten years was not exactly what they thought had happened. I liked the characters of Jillian and Colton and rooted for them to get back together through the entire book. It was also fun to read about characters from the previous two books in this series.
Truthfully, there was nothing not to like about “When a Secret Kills” and I will continue to look forward to any novel that Lynette Eason decides to write.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In the spine-tingling conclusion to her explosive Deadly Reunion series, Lynette Eason once again treats readers to a tale of secrets that need to be told and dangers that need to be faced.
Investigative reporter Jillian Carter knows it’s time to put the past to rest. She’s tired of looking over her shoulder, letting a killer go free. She’s no longer the scared kid who changed her name and disappeared. Now, no matter what the cost, Jillian must do what she is trained to do—ferret out the truth and expose it. Senator Frank Hoffman committed murder ten years ago—and Jillian watched it happen.
Didn’t she?
Not even the enigmatic and attractive Colton Brady, her ex-boyfriend and nephew of the killer, will be able to make her leave this alone. Get ready for a ride that will make you afraid to be home alone.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of several romantic suspense novels, including When the Smoke Clears, When a Heart Stops, and the Women of Justice 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. Find out more at www.lynetteeason.com.
Praise for Other Deadly Reunion Titles:
When the Smoke Clears:
Eason does an amazing job of setting the bar high for romantic tension, as well as offering a deep dark secret that may or may not ever come to light. The first book in the Deadly Reunions series, readers will be so hooked that they’ll want to embark on this thrill ride for years to come!
– Suspense Magazine
When a Heart Stops:
“…will keep the pages flying to reach the dramatic climax”
– CBA Retailers& Resources
When a Heart Stops is only the second book I’ve read by Lynette Eason, but it’s enough for me to know that she is now one of my favorite authors! I LOVE a good suspense book that keeps me guessing and wondering who is behind it all…well this book definitely gave me that!
– Suspense Zone
by admin | May 10, 2013 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingKatie’s ChoiceB&H Books (May 1, 2013)byAmy LillardABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I’m a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.
I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I’ve retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I’m from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son–a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!
I love homemade tacos, shoes, and romance novels–not necessarily in that order. I’m a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I’m shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.
I believe that God is love. I guess that’s why I adore romances.
I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I’m a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that’s me June Cleaver with a laptop.
I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I’ll get to it or I won’t, either way I’m good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I’m alone on this last one, and again, I’m good with it.)
Favorite movies–(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940?s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven’t seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn’s and Audrey’s.
Learn more about Amy and her books on her Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Katie Rose Fisher loved Samuel Beachy with an intensity that shook their Amish district. No one doubted they would one day marry, until Samuel turned his back on the church and joined the world of the English.
Alone now in Clover Ridge, Katie Rose dedicates her life to God and the school children she teaches each day. Although she secretly longs for more, Katie knows God’s hand is at work, and she is happy.
News correspondent Zane Carson never even knew Oklahoma had an Amish community until he got the chance to live among them and learn about their day-to-day activities. Their simple way of life is intriguing, but not half as much as the young teacher.
Katie Rose is flattered over the attention she receives from Zane, but she has resolved to never marry. Even if she were to entertain the idea, it surely couldn’t be with an outsider like Zane.
Never one prone to the restraints of organized religion, Zane finds a comfort in the rituals and blessings in the day to day righteous living of this small Amish community. He finds himself, God, and love with Katie Rose.
But as Zane draws closer to Katie Rose, Samuel comes back to repent his ways and return to his place at her side. Can Zane convince Katie Rose that he is committed to adapting to her way of life, or will Samuel win her affections back for himself once again?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Katie’s Choice, go HERE.
by admin | May 8, 2013 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Law Enforcement, Suspense
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducing
Wounds
B&H Books (May 1, 2013)
by
Alton Gansky
THE AUTHOR:
Alton L. Gansky is the author of 24 novels and 8 nonfiction works, as well as principle writer of 9 novels and 2 nonfiction books. He has been a Christie Award finalist (A Ship Possessed) and an Angel Award winner (Terminal Justice) and recently was award the ACFW award for best suspense/thriller for his work on Fallen Angel. He holds a BA and MA in biblical studies and Lit.D. He lives in central California with his wife.
In addition to his own writing, Alton Gansky has consulted and provided editing/ writing services to several CBA publishers and written copy, video scripts, and other works for the general business market. Through Gansky.Communications he has consulted with publishers and agents, as well as provided editing services. He is “the go to guy” for co-writing having been selected by Penguin, Waterbrook, Broadman Holman, and other publishers to work with their top tier authors.
Gansky is in frequent demand at writer’s conferences having taught and keynoted in California, Arizona, New Mexico, North Carolina, Delaware, Washington, and Canada. He has also been guest lecturer on suspense writing at Taylor University in Indiana.
Learn more about Alton and his books on his Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A man’s lifeless body is found in the fresh soil of San Diego’s botanical garden. Cause of death is asphyxiation, an easy call for the medical examiner. More mysterious, however, are the tiny drops of blood on the victim’s skin, resulting from hundreds of punctures.
A rabbi leaving his house for work expects a regular day at the synagogue. That quickly changes when he discovers a dead man on his front lawn, clearly beaten to death.
Motorcycle riders racing along the empty streets of an abandoned military base stumble across another man’s corpse, its skin revealing long, red-purple marks of a thrashing given with wood dowels.
The numbers mount. Each week another victim and another mysterious clue in a game of mass murder the police don’t want to lose. The solution rests with Dr. Ellis Poe, a religious professor who only wishes to be left alone with his books and classes.
But evil must be faced, and the choice is no longer his own.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Wounds, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
An unsolved murder three decades old has shaped the lives of two individuals. Carmen Rainmondi, San Diego homicide detective, has spent her life with one purpose in mind – finding her sister’s killer and putting away others like him. A loner, her private life has very little space for others. Dr. Ellis Poe has spent his life filled with guilt because he witnessed the murder of Carmen’s sister but did nothing to help. Work is his panacea and he too spends his free time alone. When one of Poe’s seminary students is the victim of a bizarre murder, Carmen and Ellis’s paths cross for the first time with Carmen the chief investigator on the case. By the story’s end both Poe and Carmen will be instrumental in solving a rapidly developing case as more bodies are found that seem to be connected.
Wounds is a novel that grabs the reader and takes them for an unforgettable ride with homicide detectives as they attempt to solve a case before more people die. The descriptions are so vivid that the reader sees what the detectives see, hears what they hear, and practically smells what they smell. Very little is left to the imagination yet it was all handled tactfully and non-offensively. The tension mounted with each chapter but brief moments of humor offered some much needed relief. Although the author dropped clues along the way, there were plenty of plot twists and surprises to keep me in suspense until the very end.
Wounds is the perfect book for those who enjoy a realistic murder suspense novel.
