by admin | Dec 4, 2012 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas
MY REVIEW:
Having loved the first two Miller’s Creek novels, I was excited when Cathy offered me a chance to review “The Way of Grace”. With her usual well-rounded characters and down-home setting, Cathy has delivered a winner once again.
Heroine Grace Soldano has become a lawyer because of her desire for justice but her inexperience and personal prejudice have clouded her judgment somewhat. She quickly finds herself unwittingly drawn into a confusing web of deception that places her in danger. When she attempts to secretly help her friend under her own power, she soon finds herself in deep trouble and the object of scorn.
Matt has loved Grace for a long time but realizes that he is not the kind of man she wants. Determined to win her love, Matt continues to support her with his friendship even when others turn their backs on her. He demonstrates unselfish love toward Grace even after he has given up nearly all hope for a future with her.
“The Way of Grace” has several things going for it – a well-paced plot with true-to-life characters, a good blend of suspense, drama, and romance, and a solid biblical message that plainly illustrates the true meaning of grace. The story does not have a happy-ever-after fairytale ending but the end is satisfying all the same. As with Cathy’s previous novels, I would heartily recommend “The Way of Grace”.
This book was provided for review by the author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In pursuit of justice, in need of grace . . .
A justice-seeking perfectionist pursues her dream of a perfect life in her hometown of Miller’s Creek, Texas. Sidetracked by the desire to be a prosecuting attorney, Grace Soldano launches into uncharted waters, making herself over to please her boss and mentor. Then a disheveled free spirit turns her perfectly ordered world upside down, challenging the concept of personal goodness. A fall from perfection leaves Grace teetering between vengeance and grace, caught in a deadly crossfire that leaves her dreams in a heap of ashes. Can she learn to joyfully accept the life God has given her–far from perfect–but one completely immersed in His grace?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Cathy Bryant is the author of the Miller’s Creek Novels—Texas Roads, A Path Less Traveled, and The Way of Grace. Her desire is to write heart-stirring stories about God’s life-changing grace. Though Texas-born, she currently resides in the beautiful Ozark mountains of northwest Arkansas with her husband of thirty years and near the world’s cutest grandson.
You can learn more about her and her books at http://www.CatBryant.com and http://WordVessel.blogspot.com.
by admin | Dec 1, 2012 | Books, Love Inspired, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
It was with regret that I was recently forced to drop my subscription to the auto-ship for the Love Inspired Suspense books because my review commitments have prevented me from finding time to read them. Some might scoff at my love for these mass market novels but I have looked forward to them over the years and have thoroughly enjoyed nearly all of them. It is because of authors like Liz Johnson who always manage to present me with a well-rounded story despite the size limitations – stories that have well-developed characters and plots that usually keep me speculating until the very end. I believe it takes special talent for an author to accomplish that within such stringent parameters.
“A Promise to Protect” lived up to my expectations one hundred percent. It was easy to identify with and love both Matt and Ashley, the primary characters. Secondary characters added color and a touch of reality to the story. The threats against Ashley were frightening and the motives behind them were based on real-life situations. I loved the loyalty and support for each other exhibited by the Navy SEALS and Matt’s dedication to his friend’s sister. The romance that grew between them was a special bonus.
Not only has Liz Johnson provided her readers with a well-written and enjoyable story but she has alerted us to the growing problem of human trafficking even within the U.S. As Christians we may not all get involved personally in the effort to put a stop to this abomination but we can all certainly pray about it.
This book was provided for review by the author Liz Johnson.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Navy SEAL Matt Waterstone knows about keeping people safe. When his best friend’s sister is attacked, Matt promises no harm will come to Ashley Sawyer–not on his watch. But Matt’s not the only protective one. Ashley will do anything to safeguard the residents of the battered women’s shelter she runs. She’s sure she can handle the threats she gets in return. What she can’t handle is the way Matt scales the walls around her heart. Yet when she falls prey to a crime web more sinister than she’d realized, trusting Matt could be the only way to survive.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Liz Johnson graduated from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff with a degree in public relations and set out to work in Christian publishing. In 2006 she got her wish when she accepted a publicity position at a major trade book publisher. While working in the industry, she decided to pursue her other dream—becoming an author. She is now a two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist, and A Promise to Protect is her fourth novel with Love Inspired Suspense. Liz makes her home in Nashville, TN, where she enjoys theater, exploring the local music scene, and making frequent trips to Arizona to dote on her two nephews and three nieces. She loves stories of true love with happy endings. Keep up with Liz’s adventures in writing at www.lizjohnsonbooks.com, or follow her on twitter @LizJohnsonBooks or Facebook.com/lizjohnsonbooks.
AUTHOR INTERVIEW:
What’s your new book, A Promise to Protect, about?
Ashley Sawyer has been the director of a battered women’s shelter for three years, so she’s no stranger to dealing with threats. But when she helps a young woman disappear, the threats become more intense than she’s ever experienced. Navy SEAL Matt Waterstone is happy to check on his best friend’s little sister, certain he can take care of the situation. But as Matt and Ashley search for the source of the threats, they uncover a plot more sinister than they ever imagined . . . and a love they never expected.
How did you get interested in writing about Navy SEALs?
When I was in college, I picked up a novel about a SEAL, and I was hooked. Who were these men unafraid of facing down the worst in this world? Who would go through such torturous training to be called the elite? I began watching documentaries on Special Forces units and reading everything I could about the men on the teams. Lately I’ve been reading biographies of SEALs including Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell and Fearless by Eric Blehm, fascinated by the type of personality it takes to become a SEAL.
It’s been said that good writers are good readers. What do you enjoy reading?
I’ll read just about anything that I can! And I read as often as I’m able. That translates into—whenever I’m not on deadline. My favorite books cross genres and years. As a kid, I read The Witch of Blackbird Pond, and I loved it! Still do. As an adult, I’ve really The Princess Bride and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Mostly I just enjoy a rich story with a happily ever after.
What have you enjoyed reading recently?
I’ve written three books this year—met three deadlines—so I haven’t had as much time to read as I’d like. But I did catch new books by some of my favorite historical authors—Julie Klassen and Karen Witemeyer. On a recent road trip I finally listened to the audio version of Susan Meissner’s The Shape of Mercy. It was wonderful!
Liz, what’s up next for you?
Right now I’m working on the follow up to A Promise to Protect, which is due out next year. It’s about Ashley’s brother and Matt’s best friend, Tristan. Then I’m scheduled to write a third book in my SEAL series. I’ve loved writing about the men of SEAL Team FIFTEEN and the women they fall in love with, so I’ll be sad when the series wraps up. I’m also working on a contemporary romance and bouncing at least a hundred and three other ideas around my mind.
EXCERPT FROM A PROMISE TO PROTECT:
“Tristan is the closest thing I have to a brother. He’s worried about you, and so am I. Let me help.”
Fear flickered through Ashley’s eyes as she whispered, “Someone almost ran me over.”
“Tristan said something about a letter,” Matt pressed.
Ashley nodded. “When I got home that day, there was an anonymous note saying that someone wanted his property back.”
His gut clenched. What kind of jerk threatened a battered women’s shelter? “Listen, I’m in town for a few days. Let me look into things.”
She smiled up at him. “Thanks, but I got the note more than a week ago. If there was any danger, something else would have happened by now.”
As they reached her car, her smile died. He didn’t have to ask if she still thought the threat had passed as she took in the smashed windshield of her coupe. Tucked under a wiper blade, the person responsible for the mess had left a clear message.
If I don’t get what’s mine, you’ll get what’s yours.
Excerpted from A Promise to Protect © 2012 by Elizabeth Johnson. Published by Love Inspired Books.
by admin | Dec 1, 2012 | Books, Historical
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducingGreenwood and ArcherLift Every Voice; New Edition edition (September 20, 2012)
by
Marlene BanksABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Marlene Banks has worked 30+ years combined in nursing and the business arena. Her goal as a writer is to create inspiring, gripping and realistic stories with an emphasis on African American literature. She believes her gift and desire to write is from God and desires to use it to fulfill His purposes. Marlene lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where she is a member of Bethel Deliverance International Church.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Greenwood and Archer: After the Riot continues the stories of Billy Ray Matthias and Benny Freeman and the residents of the Greenwood District after the historical Tulsa Race Riots of 1921. Though a sequel to Son of a Preacherman, Greenwood and Archer can be read as a stand alone book.
The White Glove Society has all but destroyed the Greenwood District, home to the affluent blacks in Tulsa. Now those who have survived are trying to recover what is left including Billy Ray Matthias and Benny Freeman. Billy Ray and Benny are engaged but Benny is hesitant to set a date. Jordan Franks, Benny’s ex-fiancee shows up in Tulsa and Benny is confronted with the memories and emotions of the crippling break up she experienced with Jordan. She must decide whether she will stand and face her past or allow it to drive her back into the dark place she’d grown used to before meeting Billy Ray. Billy Ray’s attempts to keep Benny from running away are challenged by his own struggles as he wrestles with God’s call on his life to preach.
DP Dooley, plagued by a past that prompted him to turn from God and become a government agent, is in a turmoil as he wars against enemies seen and unseen. Internally, he fights against the darkness of his soul as the anger and resentment he has harbored against God for most of his life wears him down. Externally, he continues to fight against the threats of the bigoted White Gloves Society, which is growing and trying to increase its racist activities.
The once hard-edged racial views of Chief Tobias Parnell have noticeably dulled and he no longer enjoys the favor of the White Glove Society. Teaming up with Dooley, Chief Parnell fights against illegal racketeering, bootlegging and racial crimes.
A new brotherhood forms in Tulsa, the interdenominational Christian clergyman (ICCA). Braving the social struggles of Tulsa, five clergymen attempt to and bring together God’s people, regardless of race, economic status, gender, ethnicity and even doctrine. Their goal, along with the people of Greenwood is to see a new Tulsa rise from the ashes.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Greenwood and Archer, go HERE.
by admin | Dec 1, 2012 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducing
A Wild Goose Chase ChristmasAbingdon Press (November 2012)
by
Jennifer AlLeeABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A Word from Jennifer:
As I look back on my life, it’s interesting to see where God’s taken me, and where I took myself that God pulled me out of. I finally got back to writing, the dream of my heart. Since 1996, I’ve published numerous short stories, devotions and plays. I’ve also been active in church drama ministries, another passion of mine. My first novel, The Love of His Brother (November 2007, Five Star Publishers), was followed by The Pastor’s Wife (February 2010, Abingdon Press) and The Mother Road (April 2012). A Wild Goose Chase Christmas is book two in the new Quilts of Love series.
Besides being a writer, I am a wife and mom. Living in Las Vegas, Nevada, my family has learned how to enjoy the fabulous buffets here without severely impacting our waistlines. God is good!
Learn more about Jennifer and her books on her Blog.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Upon her grandmother’s death, Izzy Fontaine finds herself in possession of a Wild Goose Chase pattern quilt that supposedly leads to a great treasure.
Of course, once the rest of the family finds out about the “treasure map,” they’re determined to have a go at the treasure themselves. And, if that weren’t enough, Max Logan, a local museum curator, contacts Izzy and says that Grandma Isabella promised him the quilt.
What is it about this quilt that makes everyone want it? Is Izzy on a wild goose chase of her own, or a journey that will lead her to the treasure her grandmother intended?
If you would like to read the first chapter of A Wild Goose Chase Christmas, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
The story related in A Wild Goose Chase Christmas is exactly what the title says. When Izzy’s grandmother died, she left Izzy a family quilt along with a note that indicated that the quilt would lead to a treasure. Not sure exactly what the note meant, Izzy put the quilt aside until it seemed that everyone wanted her quilt. One of the people wanting the quilt was Max Logan, a museum curator who claimed that Izzy’s grandmother had given the quilt to him. Despite her misgivings as to Max’s motives, Izzy found herself becoming attracted to the genuinely caring person he seemed to be.
As Izzy and Max worked together to discover the meanings of clues left by her grandmother, one after another complication rose to challenge them. But as they persisted, they and Izzy’s mother and brother found exactly the treasure their grandmother hoped they would find.
A Wild Goose Chase Christmas is a fun read especially suitable for the Christmas season with its message of faith, family and restored relationships. A bit of romance doesn’t hurt either.
