by admin | Jul 16, 2012 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingAlmost AmishBethany House Publishers (July 1, 2012)byKathryn CushmanABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kathryn Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy, but all her life she knew that she wanted to write a novel “some day”. For her, “some day” came in 2003, when she started writing and never looked back.
Her first two manuscripts remain firmly ensconced in the back of her closet (the dust bunnies tell her they really are terrific!). Her third attempt became her first published novel.
A Promise to Remember and Leaving Yesterday were both finalists for the American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award, and Waiting for Daybreak was a finalist in Women’s Fiction for the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award.
On the homefront, she has been married to the wonderful and handsome Lee for nearly twenty-five years now, and their two daughters are currently braving the worlds of high school and college.
They’ve lived in Santa Barbara for over twenty years. It’s a beautiful place and Kathryn feel blessed to be there (although a seventy degree Christmas still leaves her dreaming of a white one—or at least a colder one!)
When she’s not writing or reading or braving seventy degree holidays, you’ll find her trying her best to keep up with her daughters in their various theater, softball, dance, and filled-with-activity lives.
Learn more about Kathryn and her books on her Website .
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Proving the Simple Life Isn’t So Simple After All
Over committed and overwhelmed, Julie Charlton is at the breaking point. She knows she should feel blessed as a mother and wife–but she just feels exhausted. And then, the miraculous happens. Her sister-in-law Susan, a Martha Stewart-in-training, lands the chance to participate in a reality TV series about trying to live like the Amish and needs another family to join her. It’s just the break Julie needs.
But the summer adventure in simple living soon proves anything but simple. With the camera watching every move, Susan’s drive for perfection feels a lot like what they left behind, while Julie suddenly finds herself needing to stand up for slowing down. Whether it’s cooking, cleaning, or dressing differently, each new Amish challenge raises new complications…and soon each woman learns unexpected lessons about herself and her family.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Almost Amish, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Almost Amish is an absolutely perfect concept for a novel at this time with the proliferation of Amish fiction and reality TV programs. When Julie Charlton agrees to join her sister-in-law Susan and their families for a three month reality show that challenges them to live like the Amish, neither of them realize quite what they have agreed to do. Julie just knows that she needs a break and Susan believes that if she plays her cards right, the future of her daughter and herself will be assured. Reality strikes quickly when they find that all the rules are up for change at a moment’s notice and there is nothing they can do about it.
Almost Amish is a book that both adults and teens can enjoy. With three teen characters as well as the two primary characters, lots of humor and drama, plus a bit of romance, the story has a bit of something for everyone. The plot moves at a brisk pace with excellent dialogue and well developed characters. More than one surprise along the way helps keep those pages turning with anticipation.
I liked reading about each of the characters as they allowed their new environment and experiences to shape and change them, albeit some sooner than others. The essential theme of the story is about finding and using the unique gifts that the Lord has given you rather than comparing yourself to others. Almost Amish is a fun and entertaining book that I highly recommend.
by admin | Jul 16, 2012 | Books
MY REVIEW:
Inescapable is a mystery/suspense set in the isolated old order Mennonite town of Kingdom, Kansas. Although the novel is a page turner with sufficient twists and surprises to keep most mystery lovers happy, I felt that its real strength was in its character development. The interaction between characters varied from loving and supportive to hostile which had a strong influence on decisions made by the primary characters.
As Lizzie faced various trials in her life. she was finally able to learn that the only way she could survive was by trusting God to take care of her situation. By letting go of her anger and unforgiveness toward her father and the people of Kingdom, she was finally able to find the peace she had been searching for in her life. Inescapable has a strong message of forgiveness and reconciliation and ended well. I found the details about the old order Mennonites to be interesting. They were an entirely different group than the Mennonites I encounter in our part of the country.
Inescapable was a satisfying read in all respects. I think that readers who enjoy Amish fiction and/or mystery suspense would find it to their taste.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
About the Book:
Lizzie Engel is used to running away. At eighteen, she left her Mennonite hometown, Kingdom, Kansas, with plans never to return.
But five years later, the new life she built is falling apart. Lizzie knows she’s being followed, and she’s certain the same mysterious stranger is behind the threatening letters she’s received. Realizing she’ll have to run again, the only escape Lizzie can manage is a return to the last place she wants to go.
Once she arrives in Kingdom, Lizzie is confident she’ll be safe until she comes up with a new plan. In reacquainting herself with the town and its people–especially her old friend, Noah Housler–she wonders if she judged her hometown and her Mennonite faith too harshly. However, just as she begins to come to terms with her roots, Lizzie is horrified to discover the danger she ran from is closer than ever.
No longer sure who to trust and fearful for her life and the lives of those around her, Lizzie finds she has only one place left to run–to the Father whose love is inescapable.
See what other bloggers are saying about “Inescapable” HERE.
About Nancy:
Nancy Mehl, the author of 12 books, received an ACFW Carol Award in 2009 for her novel For Whom the Wedding Bell Tolls. She has a background in social work and is a member of ACFW and RWA. She writes from her home in Wichita, Kansas, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson. Visit her website at www.nancymehl.com.
CONTEST:
Win a Handmade Mennonite Quilt from @NancyMehl! RSVP for her INESCAPABLE Facebook Party 7/26!
Celebrate with Nancy by entering her “Inescapable” Giveaway and connecting with her during the Author Chat Party on 7/26!
Find out what readers are saying here.
One winner will receive:
- A Handmade Mennonite Quilt
- A copy of Inescapable by Nancy Mehl
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on July 25th. Winner will be announced at the “Inescapable” Author Chat Facebook Party on 7/26. Nancy will be hosting a book chat, testing your trivia skills (how much do you know about the Mennonites?) and giving away some great prizes! |
 |
So grab your copy of Inescapable and join Nancy on the evening of the July 26th for a chance to connect with Nancy 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
RSVP today. Tell your friends via
FACEBOOK or
TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 26th!
by admin | Jul 13, 2012 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingThe Deposit SlipBethany House Publishers (July 1, 2012)byTodd M. JohnsonABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Todd M. Johnson has practiced as an attorney for over 30 years, specializing as a trial lawyer. A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Minnesota Law School, he also taught for two years as adjunct professor of International Law and served as a US diplomat in Hong Kong. The Deposit Slip is his debut novel. He lives outside Minneapolis, Minnesota, with his wife Cathy, and children Ian and Libby.
Learn more about Todd on his Website .
ABOUT THE BOOK:
$10,000,000 Is Missing.
Erin Larson is running out of options. In the wake of her father’s death, she found a slim piece of paper–a deposit slip–with an unbelievable amount on it. Only the bank claims they have no record of the money, and trying to hire a lawyer has brought only intimidation and threats. Erin’s last chance is Jared Neaton.
How Far Will One Lawyer Go to Find the Money?
When Jared wearied of the shady ethics of his big law firm and started his own, he never expected the wheels to fly off so quickly. One big loss has pushed him to the brink, and it’s all he can do to scrape by.
And How Far Will Someone Go to Stop Him?
He’s not sure if Erin’s case is worth the risk, but if the money is real, all his problems could vanish. When digging deeper unleashes something far more dangerous than just threats, both Jared and Erin must decide the cost they’re willing to pay to discover the truth.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Deposit Slip, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
The Deposit Slip is an excellent entry by Todd M. Johnson into the legal thriller genre. Written in an easy-to-read style, the plot has just the right blend of legal facts and procedures, drama, action, and suspense. His characters are well developed especially Jared whose sometimes poor choices are strongly influenced by his desire for justice in addition to his ambition to prove himself. Jared’s relationship (or lack of) with his father is woven through the story and plays a major role in his decision making.
The Deposit Slip is a real page turner that showcases the risks some people will take to cover their tracks and the lengths they will go to for money and power. A strong message of forgiveness and reconciliation is also a highlight of the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Deposit Slip and personally preferred it to some of the Grisham books I have read. I appreciated the fact that Mr. Johnson did not overwhelm me with unnecessary legal facts but included enough to make his points. If you are a fan of legal fiction, you really should give this book a try. I am already looking forward to what this author will offer readers in the future.
by admin | Jul 10, 2012 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Suspense
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingInescapableBethany House Publishers (July 1, 2012)byNancy MehlABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Nancy Mehl lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband Norman and their dog, Watson. She’s authored thirteen books and is currently at work on her newest series for Bethany House Publishing.
All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “It’s a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”
She and her husband attend Believer’s Tabernacle in Wichita.
Learn more about Nancy and her books on her Website .
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Lizzie Engel is used to running away. At eighteen, she left her Mennonite hometown, Kingdom, Kansas, with plans never to return.
But five years later, the new life she built is falling apart. Lizzie knows she’s being followed, and she’s certain the same mysterious stranger is behind the threatening letters she’s received. Realizing she’ll have to run again, the only escape Lizzie can manage is a return to the last place she wants to go.
Once she arrives in Kingdom, Lizzie is confident she’ll be safe until she comes up with a new plan. In reacquainting herself with the town and its people–especially her old friend, Noah Housler–she wonders if she judged her hometown and her Mennonite faith too harshly. However, just as she begins to come to terms with her roots, Lizzie is horrified to discover the danger she ran from is closer than ever.
No longer sure who to trust and fearful for her life and the lives of those around her, Lizzie finds she has only one place left to run–to the Father whose love is inescapable.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Inescapable, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Inescapable is a mystery/suspense set in the isolated old order Mennonite town of Kingdom, Kansas. Although the novel is a page turner with sufficient twists and surprises to keep most mystery lovers happy, I felt that its real strength was in its character development. The interaction between characters varied from loving and supportive to hostile which had a strong influence on decisions made by the primary characters.
As Lizzie faced various trials in her life. she was finally able to learn that the only way she could survive was by trusting God to take care of her situation. By letting go of her anger and unforgiveness toward her father and the people of Kingdom, she was finally able to find the peace she had been searching for in her life. Inescapable has a strong message of forgiveness and reconciliation and ended well. I found the details about the old order Mennonites to be interesting. They were an entirely different group than the Mennonites I encounter in our part of the country.
Inescapable was a satisfying read in all respects. I think that readers who enjoy Amish fiction and/or mystery suspense would find it to their taste.
by admin | Jul 7, 2012 | Books, Historical, Romance, Shakers
MY REVIEW:
Ann Gabhart’s latest historical Shaker novel “The Gifted” vividly details life in the Shaker village of Harmony Hill, Kentucky with Jessamine Brady as its central character. A resident of the village since her grandmother’s death when she was ten, Jessamine has become accustomed to their way of life and attempts to live up to their stringent standards. Unfortunately, at times her unfettered curiosity and abundant zest for life put her at odds with the strict group, especially when she rescues a young man from “the world”. When her circumstances change and she leaves the village, Jessamine has difficulty adjusting to her new way of life but she is thrilled to see Tristan again even though prior commitments may not allow them to act on their mutual attraction.
“The Gifted” is beautifully written and reveals a great deal about life among the Shakers. The legalism and deception of their beliefs is evident although related without judgment as an integral part of the story. Of particular interest was the restriction Jessamine felt while living among the Shakers and the guilt she experienced once free of their rules. Her story clearly illustrates the difference between following God or following a form of religion. I easily became involved with her story but wondered until the very end what her final choice would be – stay in “the world” or return to Harmony Hill. I knew the choice I wanted her to make but was afraid that she would not.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Bestselling author Ann Gabhart, most known for her critically acclaimed Shaker fiction, pours her personal experience and story-telling ability into The Gifted (July 2012). Set in 1849 Kentucky, this stand-alone novel follows Jessamine Brady who loves her Shaker brothers and sisters, but longs for life and love in the outside world.
Jessamine has been in the Shaker Village for half her life, but in spite of how she loves her sisters there, she struggles to conform to the strict rules. Instead she entertains dreams of the world outside. When Tristan Cooper seems to step out of those dreams to entice her into the forbidden realm beyond the Shaker Village, her life turns upside down. Will Jessamine be able to survive the storms of the world? Or will she retreat back to the peace of Harmony Hill?
The thousands of loyal fans of Gabhart’s Shaker novels will love this entrancing story of learning to trust the gifts God gives us and let him guide us through life.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several novels, including Angel Sister, The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker and The Blessed. She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in Kentucky.
Available July 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
by admin | Jul 5, 2012 | Adventure, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Suspense
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingSerpent of MosesBethany House Publishers (July 1, 2012)byDon HoeselABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Don Hoesel is a Web site designer for a Medicare carrier in Nashville, TN. He has a BA in Mass Communication from Taylor University and has published short fiction in Relief Journal. He was born and raised in Buffalo, NY but lives in Spring Hill, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. The Serpent of Moses is his fourth novel.
Learn more about Don and his books on his Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Moses built and lifted up the brass serpent, healing the afflicted Israelites of snakebites. King Hezekiah called the serpent Nehushtan. Long thought destroyed, it’s been buried for millennia, secreted under the region’s shifting sands. Now the Israeli government wants it back and they will stop at nothing to get their hands on it. Yet they’re not the only ones who covet the Nehushtan.
Archaeologist Jack Hawthorne travels to Libya intent on recovering the sacred object, but one does not cross the Mossad and expect to walk away without a fight. Jack and his friends must find the priceless “snake of brass upon a pole” before those who are also hunting it find them…and silence them forever.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Serpent of Moses, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Archaeologist Jack Hawthorne could easily be compared to a modern day Indiana Jones. His quest for biblical artifacts has taken him all over the world and pitted him against various others who were after the same thing. Much like Indiana Jones, he has narrowly escaped serious injury or death numerous times but he never gives up. As the title indicates, in this sequel to Elisha’s Bones, Jack has a bead on the bronze serpent created by Moses in the Book of Numbers and destroyed by Hezekiah in Second Kings. Unfortunately there are others, including some powerful Israelis who will stop at nothing to obtain the serpent of Moses. Before very many chapters have elapsed, Jack and his long-time friends ex-CIA agent Jim Duckett, Dr. Esperanza Habilla and her brother, Romero find themselves up to their eyeballs in a dangerous adventure that could very well cost them their lives.
Serpent of Moses had the same page-turning suspense that I found in Elisha’s Bones. I enjoyed following the separate adventures of each of the characters until they came together near the end for the grand finale. It was also intriguing to read excerpts from their antagonists’ point of view. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and hope to see more adventures of Jack and Espy in the near future. My only complaint is that it was unclear to me what the final outcome was for Templeton (I reread several times to be sure I didn’t miss something). Is this something that readers should decide for themselves or will it be revealed in a forthcoming installment? I’d really like to know.
