Feb 21, 2012
Brimming with romance and danger, The Maid of Fairbourne Hall takes readers inside the fascinating belowstairs world of a 19th-century English manor, where appearances can be deceiving. To celebrate Julie has teamed up with her publisher, Bethany House, for a fun Kindle Fire giveaway, Facebook Party (where you could win a Downton Abbey prize pack) and blog tour. Details below.

The critics agree, The Maid of Fairbourne Hall is a superb read:
"Christy winner Klassen mines another gem of a story from the rich Regency vein. In a tale of disguise and transformation with echoes of The Prince and the Pauper...Margaret's character and judgment are enriched as she works for a living. The upstairs-downstairs dynamic of the upper and serving classes puts meat on the story's bones. The reliable Klassen has produced a well-realized genre winner in which Christian elements are subtle and historically appropriate." --Publishers Weekly, about The Maid of Fairbourne Hall
"Romance, mystery and secrets.... Klassen always brings freshness to her stories. Some Regency-era novels have stuffy, hands-off characters, but her characters are warm, witty and have style..." --Romantic Times, 4.5 stars for The Maid of Fairbourne Hall
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Julie Klassen loves all things Jane--Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She has won the Christy Award: Historical Romance for The Silent Governess (2010) and The Girl in the Gatehouse (2011) which also won the 2010 Midwest Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota. For more information, visit www.julieklassen.com |
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To escape a scheme to marry her off to a dishonorable man, Margaret Macy flees London disguised as a housemaid. If she can remain unwed until her next birthday, she will receive an inheritance, and with it, sweet independence. But she never planned on actually working as a servant. And certainly not in the home of Nathaniel and Lewis Upchurch--both former suitors. As she fumbles through the first real work of her life, Margaret struggles to keep her identity secret when suspicions arise and prying eyes visit Fairbourne Hall. Can she avoid a trap meant to force her from hiding? |
Don't miss the perfect blend of Regency-era romance and mystery in The Maid of Fairbourne Hall! Grab a copy and then be sure to enter Julie's Kindle Fire Giveaway and RSVP for her Author Chat party on Facebook! Swoon.

One fortunate winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/14. Winner will be announced at Julie's "Fairbourne Hall" Facebook Party on 3/15 . Julie will be hosting an evening of chat, trivia and a sneak peek at her next book - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and a Downton Abbey Prize Pack (Season 1 & 2)!
So grab your copy of The Maid of Fairbourne Hall and join Julie and friends on the evening of March 15th for an evening of fun.
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2/23
Holly at 2 Kids and Tired Books http://2kidsandtiredbooks.blogspot.com
Mary's Cup of Tea http://www.mmbearcupoftea.com
2/24
Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful http://little-bit-of-wonderful.blogspot.com
Jami's Reviews http://jamisreviews.blogspot.com
Dana at Because I Said So http://becauseisaidsothathswhy.blogspot.com
Patricia at It's Time To Read Mamaw http://itstimetoreadmamaw.blogspot.com
2/25
Book Reviews By Jenny http://bookreviewsbyjenny.blogspot.com
Valentina at Carabosse's Library http://carabosseslibrary.blogspot.com
Jessica at A New Leaf http://jandjnewleaf.blogspot.com
Nise' at Under the Boardwalk http://nisefunpages.blogspot.com
2/27
Brenda at WV Stitcher http://www.kittycrochettwo.blogspot.com
Alexandra at Poisoned Rationality http://www.prationality.com
2/28
Karla at Ramblin' Roads http://ramblinroads.blogspot.com
Kari at Alas 3 Lads http://www.alas3lads.blogspot.com
Megan at Hardcover Feedback http://hardcoverfeedback.blogspot.com
Tammi at Our Homeschooling Pilgrimage http://ourhomeschoolingpilgrimage.blogspot.com
2/29
April's Lifestyle Show http://aprilslifestyleshow.com
Mindy at A Room without Books is Empty http://detweilermom.blogspot.com shelly
The Attic Girl http://www.atticgirl.com
Lori at Morning Glories and Moonflowers http://www.perfectisboring.blogspot.com
Nicole at Book Nook Club http://booknookclub.blogspot.com
3/1
Theresa at Just One More Paragraph http://tweezlereads.blogspot.com
Christine at The IE Mommy http://www.theiemommy.com
Mollie at The Gandy's Home Base http://thegandyshomebase.blogspot.com
Danielle at The Happy Wife http://juanshappywife.blogspot.com
Vic's Media Room vicsmediaroom.wordpress.com
Leticia at My Daily Trek http://leticiasworld.blogspot.com
3/2
Shari at The Knit Wit by Shair http://www.theknitwitbyshair.com
Athena at Our Crazy Life http://mama2six.blogspot.com
Gina at Gypsy Mama Logs http://www.gypsymamalogs.com
Karla at Quiet Quilter www.karla-hanns-karla.blogspot.com
Alexia at The Mommy Rambles Http://themommyrambles.blogspot.com
Stacie at Hobbit Door Http://HobbitDoor.blogspot.com
3/3
Ruth at My Devotional Thoughts http://mydevotionalthoughts.com
Kristie at Moments http://kristie-moments.blogspot.com
Celena at The Traveling Sisterhood http://thetravellingsisterhood.blogspot.com
Patricia at Dream a little dream http://liveanddreamalittledream.blogspot.com
Aizess at Christian Book Review Blog http://christianbookreviewblog.blogspot.com
Lindsay at Live To Read ~Krystal http://livetoread-krystal.blogspot.com
LaTawnia Kintz Reviews http://latawniakreviews.blogspot.com
3/5
Vera at Luxury Reading http://www.luxuryreading.com
Karen's Korner http://stillmagnolias.blogspot.com
Chronicles of a Writer http://mlmichaels.blogspot.com
Whitney at Rambles of a Sahm http://ramblesahm.blogspot.com
Debora at A Book and a Cupcake http://abookandacupcake.blogspot.com
Maopa at Luscious Deals http://lusciousdeals.blogspot.com
Kate at Books, Baking & Beyond http://booksbakingandbeyond.com
3/6
Lisa at A Casual Reader's Blog http://ellsey.blogspot.com
Crystal at Cinnamon Hollow http://thecinnamonhollow.com
Page by Paige http:/thesweetandthesassy.wordpress.com
Lauri at Knits, Reads and Reviews http://knitsandreads.blogspot.com
3/7
Courtney's Chitter Chatter http://courtney-courtneyschitterchatter.blogspot.com
Reviews By Erin http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
Nicole at To the heart of history http://www.nicolemillerbooks.com
Kendra at Happily Managing a Household of Boys http://familymgrkendra.blogspot.com
Libby's Library http://www.libslibrary.com
Lisa at Heritage Homestead and Homeschool Academy http://www.teachthemhisways.blogspot.com
3/8
Deborah at A Bookish Libraria~The Bookish Dame Reviews http://abookishlibraria.blogspot.com
Tami at This Mom's Delight http://thismomsdelight.com
Kemi at Homemaking Organized Blog http://www.homemakingorganized.com/blog
Holly at Shelf Life http://www.hollysrenee.blogspot.com
Sheila at Showcase Sisters http://showcasesisters.blogspot.com
3/9
Donna at Books and Such http://bookworm56.blogspot.com
Book Reviews by Renae http://www.renae-sattazahn.blogspot.com
Tiffany at A Cozy Reader's Corner Reviews www.acozyreaderscorner.com
Kimberly's Bookshelf http://kimberlysbookshelf.blogspot.com
Erin's Fiction Tidbits http://erinshepherd623.wordpress.com
Carrie at Farming On Faith http://farmingonfaith.blogspot.com
JHS at Colloquium http://www.jhsiess.com Jennifer
For Such a Time as This http://www.jennifersikora.com
3/12
Amanda at Sisters in Cahoots! http://www.thepriceoftrust.com
Mandie at Mommy Reads too Much http://mommyreadstoomuch.com
Taking Time for Mommy http://takingtimeformommy.com
Sarah at Growing for Christ http://growingforchrist.wordpress.com
3/13
Michelle at Healing Hearts book review blog http://edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com
Maureen's Musings http://musingsbymaureen.blogspot.com
Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood http://www.thezenofmotherhood.blogspot.com
Amanda's at Pile of Books http://amandaspileofbooks.blogspot.com
Jodie at Digging For Pearls http://diggingforpearls.blogspot.com
Patty at Broken Teepee http://brokenteepee.com
Alicia at Surrendering All of Me http://surrenderingallofme.blogspot.com
Feb 20, 2012
Welcome to the blog tour for Colleen's first book in a brand new series, Under Texas Stars."Coble is a great writer, she knows what readers want and she does not disappoint." —Romantic Times Blue Moon Promise is a story of hope, romance, and suspense . . . immersing the reader in a rich historical tale set under Texas stars. To celebrate Colleen has teamed up with her publisher, Thomas Nelson, for a "Blue Moon Promise" Facebook Chat party! During the party she will give away a Kindle Fire and a Texas-sized gift basket (filled with fabulous Texas treats and fun Lucy-inspired housekeeping products)! Save the date. Click the banner to the right and RSVP today for the "Blue Moon Promise" Facebook Party! Invite your friends and don't miss this chance to connect with Colleen and enjoy an evening of chat, trivia, prizes, and more. |
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Best-selling author Colleen Coble's novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, ACFW Book of the Year, RWA’s RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers' Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has nearly 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers and is a member of Romance Writers of America. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana. Visit her website at www.colleencoble.com. Twitter @colleencoble. |
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Book Number One in the Under Texas Stars series A love like Lucy and Nate’s only comes along once in a blue moon . . . Lucy Marsh's worldly resources are running out, but she's fiercely determined to care for her younger brother and sister. When she discovers that their father's recent death was no accident, Lucy is eager to leave town. She accepts a proxy marriage she believes will provide safe refuge. But trouble follows her to Texas where her new husband is surprised to suddenly have a wife and children to care for. |
Nate Stanton always hoped he'd marry someday, but running the family ranch meant he had no time for romance. When his father deposits Lucy Marsh—a city girl—on his doorstep, with two siblings in the bargain, he expects ranch life will send her running on the first train out of town. But Lucy is made of tougher stuff than Nate imagined. When danger moves in, Nate finds he'd give anything to protect Lucy and the children he's grown to love. Even if it means giving up his ranch.
2/22
Mocha with Linda http://mochawithlinda.blogspot.com
Charlene at Quintessentially Quilly http://quilldancer.com
Martha at Our Family's Adventures http://homeschoolblogger.com/martha
Samantha at Super Mom Sam http://supermom-sam.blogspot.com
2/23
Mary's Cup of Tea http://www.mmbearcupoftea.com
Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful http://little-bit-of-wonderful.blogspot.com
Patricia at It's Time To Read Mamaw http://itstimetoreadmamaw.blogspot.com
Amy at A Nest in the Rocks www.anestintherocks.blogspot.com
2/24
Beckie at By The Book http://rbclibrary.wordpress.com
Jessica at A New Leaf http://jandjnewleaf.blogspot.com
Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews http://sharonsgardenofbookreviews.blogspot.com
2/25
Fran at Books and Beyond http://www.booksandbeyond.net
Amanda at Short and Sweet Reviews http://oneminutebooks.blogspot.com
Lori at Morning Glories and Moonflowers http://www.perfectisboring.blogspot.com
2/27
Reviews By Molly http://reviewsbymolly.com
Diane at That's What I'm Here For... www.dianeestrella.com Christine
The IE Mommy http://www.theiemommy.com
Crystal at My Reading Room http://myreadingroom-crystal.blogspot.com
Billy at Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer http://ramblingsofacoffeeaddictedwrter.blogspot.com
2/28
Danielle at The Happy Wife http://juanshappywife.blogspot.com
Vic's Media Room vicsmediaroom.wordpress.com
The Knit Wit by Shair http://www.theknitwitbyshair.com
Athena at Our Crazy Life http://mama2six.blogspot.com
2/29
Elizabeth at Count It All Joy http://texasjoy.blogspot.com
Barbara at Bab's Book http://www.babsbookbistro.net/blog
Ruth at My Devotional Thoughts http://mydevotionalthoughts.com
Laura at Lighthouse Academy http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com
Theresa at Frugal Experiments http://www.frugalexperiments.com
3/1
Ronie at Rapid-Fire Fiction http://www.roniekendig.com/blog
Hayley at Hanging Off The Wire http://hangingoffthewire.blogspot.com
Karen at Write Now http://karenelange.blogspot.com
Krystal at Live To Read ~Krystal http://livetoread-krystal.blogspot.com
Whitney at Rambles of a SAHM http://ramblesahm.blogspot.com
3/2
Kate at Books, Baking & Beyond http://booksbakingandbeyond.com
Crystal at Cinnamon Hollow http://thecinnamonhollow.com
Mel's World with Melissa Mashburn http://www.MelissaMashburn.com
Jennifer at Life Happens With Kids http://lifehappenswithkids.com
Sarah at Growing for Christ http://growingforchrist.wordpress.com
3/3
Brooke at I blog 4 books Http://iblog4books.blogspot.com
Pamela at Daysong Reflections http://daysongreflections.com
Kendra at Happily Managing a Household of Boys http://familymgrkendra.blogspot.com
Lizzie at A Dusty Frame http://www.adustyframe.com
Laura at Day by Day in our World http://daybydayinourworld.com
3/5
Marg at Simply Shop and Save http://www.simplyshopandsave.ca
Paula at The Phantom Paragrapher http://www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com
Cara at the Law, Books & Life http://blog.caraputman.com
Kemi at Homemaking Organized Blog http://www.homemakingorganized.com/blog
3/6
Kristinia at Loving Heart Mommy http://www.lovingheartmommy.com
Tiffany at A Cozy Reader's Corner Reviews www.acozyreaderscorner.com
JHS @ Colloquium http://www.jhsiess.com
Kat at Reviews From The Heart http://reviewsfromtheheart.blogspot.com
3/7
Jacque at Good family Reads Http://www.familyreads.blogspot.com
Megan at The Joys of Life http://www.raunandmegan.blogspot.com
Brittanie at A Book Lover http://www.abookloverforever.blogspot.com
Laurel at Let's Go on a Picnic! http://headant.com
Maureen's Musings http://musingsbymaureen.blogspot.com
Lena at A Christian Writer's World http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
3/8
Megan at Inspired by Fiction http://inspiredbyfiction.blogspot.com
Andi at Radiant Light http://www.frommipov.blogspot.com
Lori at Frog's Lilypad http://lori1971.blogspot.com
Michelle at Life in Review http://lifeinreviewblog.com
Marjorie at The Writer's Tool http://marjorievawter.blogspot.com
3/9
Britni at Book Nook Club http://booknookclub.blogspot.com
Stephanie-jean at Life: SemiCrunchy http://www.lifesemicrunchy.com
Suzanne at Cows and Lasers and Everything in Between http://cowsandlasersandeverythinginbetween.blogspot.com
Jennifer at Book Reviews from a Book Lover bookreviewsfromabooklover.blogspot.com
Ariel at The Librarian's Bookshelf http://thelibrariansbookshelf.blogspot.com
Katie at Legacy of a Writer http://katie-mccurdy.blogspot.com
3/10
Ashley's Bookshelf http://ashleysbookshelf.blogspot.com
Jodie at Digging For Pearls http://diggingforpearls.blogspot.com
Patty at Broken Teepee http://brokenteepee.com
Cindy at All Things Are Possible http://cindywoolard.blogspot.com
Heather at The Sunset Won't Http://thesunsetwont.blogspot.com
3/12
Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood http://www.thezenofmotherhood.blogspot.com
Theresa at Just One More Paragraph http://tweezlereads.blogspot.com
Feb 16, 2012
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Nicoel Seitz, talented author of Beyond Molasses Creek, is thrilled to announce the winners from tonight's "Friendship" Facebook Party and Kindle Touch giveaway. Thank you all so much for coming and be sure to watch my Facebook page for updates on the next book! It is an honor to be able to write from the heart and share thoughts with my readers. You, my readers, inspire me to keep writing! |
Congratulations to Paula Osborne! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek!
Congratulations to Catherine Lee! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek!
Congratulations to Kate Scott! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek and the gift certificate of your choice (Amazon, iTunes, Starbucks)! Email your mailing address and choice to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congratulations to Angie Adair! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek!
Congratulations to Sandy Estes Hayes! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek!
Congratulations to Kym Fullen Amaral! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek and the gift certificate of your choice (Amazon, iTunes, Starbucks)! Email your mailing address and choice to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congratulations to Virginia Horton! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek!
Congratulations to Susie Stowe! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek!
Congratulations to Deb Yorgensen! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek and the gift certificate of your choice (Amazon, iTunes, Starbucks)! Email your mailing address and choice to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congratulations to Pamela Gurule! You've won a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek for posting your photo on my wall! Email your mailing address to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congrats to Lori Drake! You won a Book Club Prize Pack and a Live Chat with Nicole! Email your mailing address to amy {at} litfusegroup.com and the date you'd like your live chat!
Congrats to Shondra Brown! You are the winner of the Kindle Touch! Send your mailing address to amy {at} litfusegroup.com and we'll get right out to you!
Congrats to Crystal Steele Joyce! You won one of Nicole's original paintings! Email your mailing address to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congrats to all the winners - please email your mailing address to Amy {at} litfusegroup {dot} com.
Feb 14, 2012
We are thrilled to tell you about these great resources from Kregel Publications and Sandy's minsitry, Beautiful Womanhood. To celebrate Sandy is hosting a fabulous Kindle Touch giveaway (2/15 - 3/7) and an encouraging Facebook party on 3/8. All the details below.
There was a time when Sandy Ralya's marriage was in trouble. While she eventually sought guidance from godly mentors and Christian counselors, she didn't forget the fear and isolation she experienced and knew other women were feeling the same. So in 2003 Sandy started Beautiful Womanhood, a marriage mentoring ministry, to help other women know they are not alone in their struggles. Being a wife has always been a difficult role to understand. It's not a one-size-fits all formula and with that in mind, Sandy has written The Beautiful Wife o that all women can benefit from her "messy" story and her insights into the value of marriage mentorship.
"...An incredible handbook that every woman needs. I believe this book will be life-changing for many, many women and their marriages." -Best-selling author Shaunti Feldhahn
"Sandy Ralya candidly shares her experiences, others' personal stories, and God's wisdom to mentor women for great marriages." -Florence Littauer, speaker and best-selling author of Personality Plus
"Simply and honestly, Sandy speaks to the real issues that wives deal with and gives practical guidance on how to become 'beautiful' in Christ." -Dan Seaborn, author and founder of Winning at Home
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Sandy Ralya is the founder and director of Beautiful Womanhood, a marriage mentoring ministry based near Grand Rapids, Mich. Her marriage testimony was the focus of a popular three-day interview on FamilyLife Today, TV's Walking by Faith, and Time Out for Women. Sandy is a sought-after speaker, presenting Beautiful Womanhood seminars to hundreds of women each year at MOPS groups, women's retreats, and church leadership conferences across the country and in Canada. Sandy and her husband Tom have been married since 1980, and have a growing number of grandchildren. www.beautifulwomanhood.com |
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The Beautiful Wife uses these inspiring stories along with biblical principles to guide and encourage any wife looking for God's best in her marriage. The Beautiful Wife answers serious questions women have about their roles as wives. Discussing everything from romance and money to beauty, communication, and sex, Sandy challenges women to open up and share their journeys so that together they can see God's plan for their marriages. "It is my passion to help women discover God's heart for their marriage, just as the other women helped me," writes Sandy. "When women share with each other the details of their journeys with God as wives, it's a beautiful thing indeed." The Beautiful Wife has two companion resources - Prayer Journal and Mentor's Guide. |
One beautiful winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/7/12. Winner will be announced at Sandy's "Beautiful Womanhood" Facebook Party on 3/8. Sandy will be hosting an evening of chat, laughter and encouragement - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, prayer journals, gift certificates and a live chat with Sandy for your Bible study or small group!
So grab your copy of The Beautiful Wife and join Sandy and friends on the evening of March 8th for an evening of fun.
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2/16
Michele at My Life & Kids Library I am so glad this set included a Prayer Journal....very important! Every chapter in the book coincides with the prayer journal. It helps to really get involved with your reading. Also helps to get us in the Word of God and more active in our prayer life concerning our marriage.
Sarah at Growing for Christ I strive to be a godly wife, one that is beautiful to both God and my husband – most often I fail but there are small successes as well. If like me, you need a little help then you must check out Sandy Ralya’s Beautiful Wife which will give you a lot of help on your way to becoming a beautiful wife – you still may not be perfect but you’ll have something which will help you on your way and to pick you up when those days come that you don’t feel like being a beautiful wife.
Becky at In The Pages I was pleasantly surprised at this book. The Beautiful Wife by Sandy Ralya is a very powerful book - I was shocked over and over when I read parts that I felt were aimed right at me. I have been inspired and encouraged by this book.
2/17
Abi at 4 the LOVE of BOOKS I so enjoyed reading the Beautiful Wife. What a way to study with other wives that have the same issues as you.
Melissa at Hidden Valley Simplicity Sandy Rayla writes with personableness and chattiness, as if she was sitting down over a cup of coffee with her reader and sharing her heart. Part of her heartbeat is mentoring and that comes through as the author. She writes as a mentor who loves those she montors. That struck a chord with me as a fellow mentor.
Janelle at Cole Clan Adventures I think Sandy has written a program with will undoubtedly draw many of us into a deeper relationship with God and our husbands.
2/18
Tammi at Our Homeschooling Pilgrimage No matter how long you have been married, or how good your marriage is there is always room for improvement. So if you like Bible studies this might be one you would like to have on your coffee table, or night stand.
2/20
Heather at Servant, Wife, Mother I can’t stress how much I enjoyed the mentors guide and am looking forward to putting the ideas within into action!
Christie at Blessed Life Ministries I highly recommend this book on both a personal study and group study level. In her book, The Beautiful Wife, Sandy Rayla brings to the forefront the importance of inner beauty in our marriages. After reading this book I realized how important my inner beauty is and how that beauty glorifies the Lord in my marriage.
Megan at Homeschoolin Mama I can not tell you how blessed I feel after reviewing this Bible Study. I love the way Sandy writes, as if she knows me and is speaking right to me.
2/21
Mollie at The Gandys Home Base I am always a fan of a biblically based marriage resource, but to come across one that works on you, the wife, is even better. I was challenged weekly to pray for my spouse, talk about things with my spouse on how I could be a better wife to him, and of course draw nearer to the Lord. Sandy really is a beautiful writer, and I could really relate to her since she had gone through so many troubles I have. I was really amazed with all the different topics that she had me work through as a wife, and was doubly amazed at her honest of her own flaws.
2/22
Gretta at The Johns Family http://grettajohns.blogspot.com
Jill at I am believing God http://iambelievinggod.wordpress.com
Jennifer at A Peace of Mind http://www.mommybugg.livejournal.com
2/23
Jenn's RAQ http://www.jennsraq.com
Isabelle at Canadian ladybug Reviews! http://www.canadianladybugreviews.com
Mel's World http://www.MelissaMashburn.com
Charla at For What It's Worth www.quiet-rebel.blogspot.com
Karen's Korner http://stillmagnolias.blogspot.com
2/24
Annette at In Wonder http://continuedwonder.blogspot.com
Joan at Book Reviews from an Avid Reader http://bookwomanjoan.blogspot.com
Laura at Day by Day in Our World http://daybydayinourworld.com
Coranne at Short and Sweet http://oneminutebooks.blogspot.com
Christine at The IE Mommy Http://www.theiemommy.com
2/25
Paula at The Phantom Paragrapher http://phantomparagrapher.blogspot.com
Cara at the Law, Books & Life http://blog.caraputman.com
Tami at This Mom's Delight http://thismomsdelight.com
Donna at Books and such http://bookworm56.blogspot.com
Laura Lighthouse Academy http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com
2/27
Jennifer at For Such a Time as This http://www.jennifersikora.com
Kat at Reviews From The Heart http://reviewsfromtheheart.blogspot.com
Lisa at Book Nook Club http://booknookclub.blogspot.com
Tammy at blog...blog...blog http://tammy-thisisme.blogspot.com
Pam at Southern Gal Loves to Read http://southerngallovestoread.blogspot.com
2/28
Kathleen at Jersey Girl Book Reviews http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot.com
Amy at Cajun Joie de Vivre http://amybayliss.com
Melissa at The High Altitude Tea Duchess http://duchessofcoloradosprings.blogspot.com
Cafe Lily Book Reviews http://redlilycafe.blogspot.com
Suzannesaphone http://suzannesaphone.wordpress.com
2/29
Tracy at My Slice of Sanity http://mysliceofsanity.blogspot.com
Jill at Book, Books Everywhere http://bookbookseverywhere.blogspot.com
Leila at All meant to shine Http://allmeanttoshine.blogspot.com
Pam at Southern Gal Loves to Read http://southerngallovestoread.blogspot.com
Kalyn at The Feminine Intellect Http://www.thefeminineintellect.com
Aprils Lifestyle Show http://aprilslifestyleshow.com
3/1
Lori at Morning Glories and Moonflowers http://www.perfectisboring.blogspot.com
Diane at That's What I'm Here For www.dianeestrella.com
Judy at Lost and Found http://judy-the-tealady.blogspot.com
Amber at Snidbits http://amberfrench.blogspot.com
Crystal at My Reading Room http://myreadingroom-crystal.blogspot.com
3/2
Nathania at Sophie and Momma http://sophieandmomma.blogspot.com
Shari at The Knit Wit by Shair http://www.theknitwitbyshair.com
Wendy at Minding Spot http://mindingspot.blogspot.com
Michelle at Our Little Corner of the World http://littlecornerofworld.blogspot.com
Lindsay at Live To Read ~Krystal http://livetoread-krystal.blogspot.com
Hannah at Beauty from Inside http://spacious-soul@livejournal.com
3/3
Hayley at Hanging Off The Wire http://hangingoffthewire.blogspot.com
Scott LaVigne's Blog http://lavignesblog.com
Jamie at Little Blurbs http://littleblurbs.wordpress.com
Maopa at Luscious Deals http://lusciousdeals.blogspot.com
Heather at Proud Book Nerd http://proudbooknerd.com
Saundra at Lil'Maddies Meemaw http://lilmaddiesmeemaw.blogspot.com
Amy at The 160 Acrewoods http://www.the160acrewoods.com
Jeanie at Cup of Joe with Jeanie http://www.cupofjoewithjeanie.com
3/5
Julie at My Kansas City Mommy http://www.mykansascitymommy.com
LuAnn at Reading Frenzy http://lumorgan.blogspot.com
Kendra at Happily Managing a Household of Boys http://familymgrkendra.blogspot.com
Sara at Embracing Destiny http://embracingdestiny.blogspot.com
Heather at Scoomer http://scoomerblog.blogspot.com
Dusty at To the Moon and Back http://reachtothemoonandback.blogspot.com
Pam at Southern Gal Loves to Read http://southerngallovestoread.blogspot.com
3/6
Tammy at Bluerose's Heart http://bluerosesheart.blogspot.com
Cassandra at Redeemed Hearts http://redeemed-hearts.com
Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood http://www.thezenofmotherhood.blogspot.com
Lynetta at Open Book www.lynetta.blogspot.com
Pamela at I Read. Do You? http://www.ireaddoyou.blogspot.com
Nancy Amusing Reviews http://amusingreviews.blogspot.com
Debbie at Latte with the Queen Mommy http://thequeenmommy.com
Michele at My Blessings From Above http://koreamom.blogspot.com
3/7
Margaret at The World As I See It http://theworldasiseeitbloganddesigns.com
Megan at Inspired by Fiction http://inspiredbyfiction.blogspot.com
Andi at Radiant Light http://www.frommipov.blogspot.com
Wanda at The Watered Soul http://wateredsoul.blogspot.com
Suzanne at Cows and Lasers and Everything in Between http://www.cowsandlasersandeverythinginbetween.blogspot.com
Ariel at The Librarian's Bookshelf http://thelibrariansbookshelf.blogspot.com
Lisa at Life Full of Laughter http://lifefulloflaughter.blogspot.com
Kristie at Family, Scrapbooks and Coffee Http://needcoffeeplease.blogspot.com
Emily at Blessed Homemaking http://www.blessedhomemaking.com
Jennifer at Crazy-for-Books http://www.crazy-for-books.com
Pamela at Life as Mom CEO http://www.lifeasmomceo.blogspot.com
Megan at Homeschoolin Mama http://meg-homeschoolinmama.blogspot.com
Heather at Servant, Wife, Mother http://servantwifemother.blogspot.com
Feb 11, 2012
This book is a journey of discovering what it means to be unconditionally loved, approved, accepted, forgiven, blessed, cherished, treasured, and favored by God. To celebrate the book's relesase, Babbie is giving away a Nook Tablet an hosting the "Embrace" FB party on 3/6/12. All the details below.

Here's what I love about Embraced by God: it's as warm and caring, as biblical and wise, as Babbie Mason herself. Filled with passion and compassion, flavored with memorable stories and lyrical lessons, Babbie's devotional invites you to spend twenty-one days basking in the truth of God's love for you. A splendid new resource from a gifted sister. - Liz Curtis Higgs, best-selling author of Bad Girls of the Bible
If you want to enjoy the peace of knowing 'everything is all right' because of who God thinks you are, then read…Embraced by God. - Jan Silvious (Speaker, Life Coach, Author, Big Girls Don't Whine and Same Life New Story)
Are you longing for the truth of God’s love and tenderness for you? Read this book! Babbie Mason has authentically, passionately, purposefully, and powerfully written words of healing for you! - Dr. Thelma Wells
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Have you ever wondered, "Does God really love me? Do I really matter to him?" HE LOVES YOU. As a matter of fact, God loves you just as much as he loves His own Son. In the pages of this heartwarming, thoughtful and life-affirming 21-day journey, award-winning gospel singer, songwriter, and teacher Babbie Mason reminds you, when you know you are loved by God and that you are in His eternal plan, you’ll never again wonder if your life matters. |
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Babbie Mason is a Dove Award-winning and Grammy nominated gospel singer, songwriter, author, creator of the Embrace: A Worship Event for Women ministry, professor of songwriting at Atlanta Christian College and Lee University, and a television talk-show host. She was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame in 2010 and has appeared on numerous national television and radio programs. Babbie has been honored perform for Presidents Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, George W. Bush, Lady Margaret Thatcher, Colin Powell, Steve Forbes among many others. Babbie performs a holiday special at Carnegie Hall every year. Babbie lives near Atlanta on a farm with her husband Charles. |
Embraced by God is a 21-day encounter that shares the unconditional love of God. "If you watch what the media says as to where we should find our identity--" says Babbie, "--money, beauty, power and technology--you'll just be confused about who you are and what your purpose is. As a culture we are trying to buy or sell what can only be administered to the soul by Jesus."

One beloved winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/5/12. Winner will be announced at Babbie's "Embraced" Facebook Party on 3/6. Babbie will be hosting an evening of chat, music, laughter, and encouragement - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, Embraced by God music CDs and Notecards, and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club.)
So grab your copy of Embraced by God and join Babbie and friends on the evening of March 6th for an evening of fun.
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2/14 (Happy Valentine's Day!!)
Pamela at In His Graces This book is a great retreat for anyone seeking a more intimate relationship with God. Each days journey includes the devotional piece, scripture meditation, a prayer for topic, and an action plan for living out that topic.
Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful Written in an easy flowing and engaging style that draws you in from the first paragraph, this book is a perfect fit for busy women who want to spend a little time investing in their spiritual growth.
2/15
MaryBeth at Four Silly Sisters Review I should start by saying these are not short daily devotions by any means. Each day has an entire chapter that relates to it's theme. I have found that I can't fit these in with my early am Bible reading before getting my girls off to school, but it has become something I look forward to sitting down with as soon as I return from morning drop offs. I grab my copy of Embraced by God and a cup of coffee and head to a warm comfy spot for a while. I had not previously heard of Babbie Mason, but she is a singer/songwriter as well as author, and I think that is why I love her writing style. She is very easy to "listen" to. I find myself reflecting throughout the entire day on the thoughts, verses, and themes brought up in each mornings' chapter.
Amanda at Run To The Finish ...if you are feeling a little lost or alone she does an amazing job of really helping you see that you are love.
2/16
Abi at 4 the LOVE of BOOKS Babbie's book Embraced by God is totally about John 3:16 ~ "God's Love" for you.
2/17
Janelle at Cole Clan Adventures In Embraced by God, Babbie Mason shares her heart, and she pours out truth that we sometimes forget to grasp.
Debbie at Journey of Sisters I am finding the book easy reading, but with much to think about and ponder with the LORD-a book that will help you to grow in your Spiritual Walk.
Stacey at WORD up! This is not a quick little devotional read to start your day. It’s a sizeable read to begin your day, but well worth the treasure of scripture and life application contained within.
2/18
Kim at Window To My World I am being continually blessed by this precious, precious book!!!
2/20
Vic's Media Room In “Embraced by God” Babbie Mason gives us more than a devotional she provides us a manual to help develop and deepen our spiritual love life-to understand with more clarity God’s deep, sweet love for us.
Kayla at Brookside Reviews Unlike other devotionals, the daily journey's in this book take a little bit longer to read. She does a great job of taking the scriptures and showing how they are applicable to your life.
2/21
Jill at Book Review Travels I looked forward to reading each day’s teaching and stayed encouraged throughout the entire book.
Jill at I am believing God “Embraced by God” reads like a conversation between two friends. Mason’s warmth and compassion shine through as she demonstrates how to celebrate who we are and whose we are.
Theresa at Frugal Experiments This devotional is not like any other devotional I have come across. To me it is more like a Bible study than a devotional. I found each day’s reading and encouragement to put into practice what I had learned about God’s love that day to be quite challenging. Most devotionals I have read are more about reading and studying and learning what God has to say. This book made me think about what I was reading and made it abundantly clear that I needed to not only read and understand God’s Word, but I actually need to put it into practice.
Ronie at Rapid-Fire Fiction A powerful, poignant book that has the potential to revolutionize your thoughts and how God views you! Beautifully done!
2/22
Jennifer at A Peace of Mind http://www.mommybugg.livejournal.com
LaTawnia at Latawnia Kintz Reviews www.latawniakreviews.blogspot.com
Karen's Korner http://stillmagnolias.blogspot.com
2/23
Whitney at Rambles of a SAHM http://ramblesahm.blogspot.com
Living at Life With The Loves http://livinglifewiththeloves.blogspot.com
Kay at The More The Merrier https://moreismerrier.com
2/24
Julee at Mommy's Memorandum http://mommysmemorandum.com
Joan at Book Reviews from an Avid Reader http://bookwomanjoan.blogspot.com
Sabine at Books, Etc...by Bina www.booksbybina.blogspot.com
2/25
Jane at Blessed Life Ministries http://blessedlifeministries.com/blog
Leila at All meant to Shine http://allmeanttoshine.blogspot.com
Kristinia at Loving Heart Mommy http://www.lovingheartmommy.com
Jennifer at For Such a Time as This http://www.jennifersikora.com
Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood http://www.thezenofmotherhood.blogspot.com
2/27
Sustainable Steffanie sustainablesteffanie.blogspot.com
Lynetta at Open Book www.lynetta.blogspot.com
Andrew's Blog http://runningtowardschrist.blogspot.com
Jacque at Good Family Reads http://familyreads.blogspot.com
2/28
Susan at New Every Morning http://hismorningglory.blogspot.com; http:/www.cwrn.org
Megan at Inspired by Fiction http://inspiredbyfiction.blogspot.com
Robin at Scribbles of the Heart http://www.scribblesoftheheart.com
Loni at Writing Canvas http://writingcanvas.wordpress.com
Lena at A Christian Writer's World http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
Tracye at A Heart Poured Out http://tracyedukes.com
2/29
Michelle at Life in Review http://lifeinreviewblog.com
Barbara at Real Life View http://real-life-view.blogspot.com
Linda at Christian Book Reviews http://www.onedesertrose.wordpress.com
Melissa's Musing http://hugapoohlouise.wordpress.com
3/1
Jennifer at Just Wedeminute http://www.wedemeyerfamily.blogspot.com
Ariel at The Librarian's Bookshelf http://thelibrariansbookshelf.blogspot.com
Lisa at A Life Full of Laughter http://alifefulloflaughter.com
3/2
Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews http://sharonsgardenofbookreviews.blogspot.com
Pamela at Life as Mom CEO http://www.lifeasmomceo.blogspot.com
Becky at In The Pages http://inthepages.blogspot.com
3/3
Michelle at Beyond The Silver and The Gold http://beyondsilverandgold.blogspot.com
Tami at This Mom's Delight http://thismomsdelight.com
Musings By Lynn http://www.musingsbylynn.blogspot.com
3/5
Ann Marie at It's just my life... http://www.itsjustmylife.ca
Tracy at My Slice of Sanity http://mysliceofsanity.blogspot.com
Chrissy at Lil' baby booty Lilbabybootie.blogspot.com
Jeanie at Cup of Joe with Jeanie www.cupofjoewithjeanie.com
Mollie at The Gandy's Home Base http://thegandyshomebase.blogspot.com
Caroline at Happy Four http://happyfour.blogspot.com
Feb 8, 2012
To celebrate, Rosslyn and her publisher, Thomas Nelson, have teamed up for a fun iPod Nano giveaway (2/9-2/28) and "sweet" facebook party on February 28th. (You could walk away with a Downtown Abbey Prize Package!) See below for all the details!
The first book in the series, Fairer than Morning, gained Rosslyn much acclaim and this release is shaping up to be even better!
Author Elliott (Fairer than Morning) creates a pleasing blend of fact and fiction in this second installment in the Saddler’s Legacy series. Hanby is best known for his song “Up on the Housetop,” and slave rescuer John Parker is a real figure large enough to seem legend. Readers will appreciate the well-told tale as well as its historical basis. Publishers Weekly
Elliott’s second Saddler’s Legacy book contains remarkable storytelling about the abolitionist movement. The author graces the pages with imaginative accounts of people living during these precarious times. She delves deeply and intimately into the lives of the brave people who risk all for the Underground Railroad. Romantic Times Book Reviews
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Rosslyn Elliott is the award-winning author of Fairer than Morning, the first in the Saddler's Legacy series. She holds a B.A. from Yale University and a Ph.D. in English from Emory University. Her study of American literature and history inspired her to pursue writing fiction. Elliott lives in Albuquerque, where she homeschools her daughter and works in children's ministry. Visit www.rosslynelliott.com for more information. |
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Music offers Kate sweet refuge from her troubles . . . but real freedom is sweeter. In Westerville, Ohio, 1855, Kate Winter’s dreams are almost within reach. As the first woman to graduate from Otterbein College, she’ll be guaranteed her deepest wish: escape from the dark secret haunting her family. But with her mother determined to marry her off to a wealthy man, Kate must face reality. She has to run. Now. And she has the perfect plan. Join the upcoming musical performance—and use it to mask her flight. |
Ben Hanby, Otterbein College’s musical genius, sees Kate Winter as an enigmatic creature, notable for her beauty, yet painfully shy. Then he hears her sing—and the glory of her voice moves him as never before. He determines to cast her in his musical and uncover the mystery that is Kate. Still, he must keep his own secret to himself. Not even this intriguing woman can know that his passionate faith is driving him to aid fugitives on the Underground Railroad.
A terrifying accident brings Kate and Ben together, but threatens to shatter both their secrets and their dreams. Kate can no longer deny the need to find her courage—and her voice—if she is to sing a new song for their future.
In this second in the award-winning Saddler's Legacy series, Rosslyn Elliott has written a stirring novel of hope and faith inspired by real historical people and events. With Ben Hanby, a genius composer, Kate Winter, one of the first female college graduates in America, and John Parker, an ex-slave who risked his life time and again to help fugitive slaves, Sweeter than Birdsong is full of real heroes to inspire us. "I hope readers will find a renewed sense of strength in their own lives," says Elliott, "knowing that change is possible, and our efforts matter. I want them to remember these unique, brave people in history who left us a shining example of what it means to live out one's beliefs with passion and commitment."
So to celebrate the music in all of us, Rosslyn and Thomas Nelson are hosting this "sweet giveaway".

One fortunate winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on February 28th. Winner will be announced at Sweeter than Birdsong Author Chat Facebook Party on 2/28. Rosslyn will be chatting with guests, sharing a sneak peek of the next book in the series, hosting a trivia contest, and more! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, Seasons 1 and 2 of Downtown Abbey and a soundtrack DVD, and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club AND a LIVE Author Chat for your group with Rosslyn.)
So grab your copy of Sweeter than Birdsong and join Rosslyn and friends on the evening of the 28th for an evening of fun.
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2/10
Holly at 2 Kids and Tired Books Rosslyn Elliot has not only created engaging, likeable characters, she has also captured the essence of humanity, where good men and women are able to rise above their own adversity to help others in need.
Mary's Cup of Tea You will enjoy this book, especially if you are a history buff about that time period.
Tara at Ramblings of the Blonde Mother Bear Rosslyn Elliott’s writing is rich and full of beautiful details that set the stage for this historic novel set in 1855 at Otterbein College. Readers will be quickly drawn into the story and the plight of its characters. Elliot lyrical prose is a true delight.
2/11
Patricia at It's Time To Read Mamaw I loved this book! It will break your heart reading about pain and sorrow people went through fleeing and fighting for freedom.
Come Meet Aus jenny This would be my top read of the year so far.
Book Reviews By Jenny When I got this book I literally finished reading it by the second day of picking it up as I did not want to put it down! It was so entertaining, moving and has such great historical quality to it! I cannot wait until the third book releases!!! Rosslyn has obviously done her research and her writing gets better and better with each book. She is a definite story teller
Amanda at Run To The Finish Books like this are why I read each night before bed…it’s intriguing and exciting, but also allows me to escape from any worries of the day.
Kd Quilts I highly recommend Sweeter than Birdsong as both an entertaining and informative fiction, and I think you will love Rosslyn Elliott's writing as much as I do.
2/13
Jill at Book, Books Everywhere I love how Elliot took names and facts from history to weave into her story. It makes it come alive, breathing life into what could just be boring, dusty facts.
Abi at 4 the LOVE of BOOKS With each turn of the page there's a new twist in the plot in Rosslyn Elliott's newest book Sweeter than Birdsong.
Beckie at By The Book Rosslyn Elliott has again captured the Hanby's wonderful story in a way that keeps the reader turning the pages.
Valentina at Carabosse's Library What really caught my attention from the very beginning was Kate, the protagonist. She has an obvious anxiety disorder which is not a common ailment described in historical stories. The author does a good job in showing us her struggles, not just telling us she has one. It endears us to her from the first page.
Jessica at A New Leaf I love this series. The adventure. The hint of romance. When I read this series, each page plays out in my head like a movie. The writing is so vivid and so real.
Brenda at WV Stitcher I didn't realize until I got to the afterward that the story was based on real people. It made me love the story even more, because I felt like I got a bit of a history lesson while reading fiction.
2/14
Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews I found "Sweeter Than Birdsong" to be a compellingly powerful novel. Rosslyn Elliott presents the story of the pre-Civil War sentiments and tensions between abolitionists and pro-slavery proponents in this fascinating, true-life story of two young people who find love in the midst of a political and personal maelstrom.
Heidi at Starts At Eight For starters, I couldn’t put this book down. If you love historical fiction this book should be on your reading list!
Amanda at Short and Sweet Reviews Rosslyn Elliot is an incredibly gifted writer and I look forward to reading anything she writes in the future. She has an incredible way of writing characters- they aren't perfect and you really "feel" for them. You will want to pick up this book- it is a great second book in an oustanding series!
2/15
Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful Author Interview
Tammi at Our Homeschooling Pilgrimage Rosslyn’s writing is powerful, and draws the reader into the story.
April's Lifestyle Show I could not put this book down and read it in a day and a half.
2/16
Chelle at Chasing the Divine This is an excellent book that puts an emphasis on humanity and the importance of taking risks in order to do what is right and beneficial for others. Sit back and enjoy, this is a delightful read.
Trish at In So Many Words I devoured the first four chapters in a flash and can hardly wait until I have time to read more of the story.
Lori at Morning Glories and Moonflowers You will swoon! Sweeter than Birdsong, written by Rosslyn Elliott, is the second book in the Saddler's Legacy series. The first book is Fairer than Morning.) It combines history, romance, slavery, the Underground Railroad, secrets, and richly written real life characters. I was swept away to a time when a kiss on the hand was scandalous and handwritten letters were the epitome of romance.
Kris at Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers I really love the research that Ms. Elliott obviously puts into her novels.
2/17
Nicole at Wyoming Girl *turned* Coastie Wife I'm left satisfied but can't wait to read the next book in the series!
Diane at That's What I'm Here For The book was wonderful! It painted such a painful and realistic picture of slavery at this time in history. The cost of deciding which side of slavery one stood on, and the courage it took to follow through on that conviction. The ending of this book was extremely powerful, and brought me to tears of pride for what the once shy Kate did. She stood up for what was right when it counted the most. That one scene will stay with me in my mind and remind me of what truly taking a stand is all about.
Danielle at The Happy Wife If you enjoy historical fiction, romance novels, or learning about the inner workings of the Underground Railroad, you will love this book. However, I highly recommend this book foranyone that enjoys a good story.
Vic's Media Room In “Sweeter than Birdsong” Rosslyn Elliott not only gives us a great romance but a real piece of history. While her work is fiction this book is based on the lives of a real Ben and Kate who went through much of the events depicted in the story. This story has such great themes, slavery, how to do good when evil abounds, true love and how God works His plans even in the midst of great suffering. I like history and any story that has something to do with The Underground Railroad is a winner in my book.
Theresa at Faith and Family Reviews This book with all of its impossibilities gives hope for change and shows that when we use our God given talents for God’s glory we will find life more rewarding, no matter the monetary cost.
Mindy at Musings of single countrygal and her cat I would recommended Sweeter Than Birdsong if you love a story that is full of hope and faith and if you love novels that a based on real people then you also get a bonus!
2/18
Gina at Gypsy Mama Logs I immediately fell in love with Kate, and her sweet and determined personality kept me feverishly reading until they very last page.
Splashes of Joy Rosslyn Elliott has written another wonderful historical fiction that will take you soaring through the pre-civil war ear in a way you’ve never there before. With detailed descriptions of the way of life, amazingly created characters that will draw you to themselves and a strong faith and a love for abused slaves, you will be engulfed in this story until the very end.
Casey at Writing for Christ I think I felt the most connection with Kate. Though I have never been one to struggle with being shy or afraid to speak publically, I can understand that debilitating fear that can take over you. Her gentle growth through the story was absolutely perfect and I had to cheer when she stood up for something she believed in and was passionate about.
Lindsay at Live To Read The plot is fast-paced; the author has a very fluid and clean way of writing that contains no awkward transitions or bad sentence structure. The reader will find the plot and events easy to understand and follow, there should be no confusion.
Carlybird's Home You know how sometimes you just know you’re going to love a book? You just get a certain feel for it before you even read the first word. Sometimes it’s the cover, sometimes it’s the title, or it can just be a feeling. I had that feeling about this book.
Renee at Black 'n Gold Girl's Spot Hold on to your hat, it's a dramatic story with twists you won't see coming!
2/20
Laura at Harvest Lane Cottage Do I have to put the book down? Do I hafta? Huh? I felt that way all through the book. I found myself drawn into the pre-Civil War drama of pro-slavery and abolitionist tensions.
Whitney at Rambles of a SAHM I read Rosslyn’s debut novel, Fairer than Morning, last year and absolutely loved it. When I picked upSweeter Than Birdsong, I wondered if she could do it again…and she did! Quite frankly I think I actually liked this second book in the series even more than the first.
Edward at Summit Book Reviews She makes me want to know more. A well-written novel.
Mel's at World with Melissa Mashburn Rich with history this book sweeps you right off your feet and back in time where you feel more like one of the characters than someone sitting in 2012 reading the book.
Lydia at The Overweight Bookshelf Her writing engages the mind whilst wooing the heart as her words shoot true like arrows of truth. Readers can effortlessly immerse themselves completely owing to the diligent attention to detail and Rossylyn's talent for presenting it so articulately.
Lena at A Christian Writer's World Author interview and book giveaway.
2/21
Courtney's Chitter Chatter I’ve read a few Civil War era books but this was the first book that I read about helping slaves escapes to freedom and I have to say that part of the story just came alive in this book. I felt my own heart just hurting for the women slave in the story. The fact that there is light at the end of this sorrow and romance to keep it all going made this novel even better!
Dani at Elle in Organic Shoes Elliott knows how to pull you into a story and keep you there and invested in each and every character. She has entwined fiction with history of the Hanby family that will keep you wanting to know the rest of the story.
2/22
Paula at GraceReign http://gracereign.blogspot.com
Pamela at Daysong Reflections Http://daysongreflections.com
Kendra at Happily Managing a Household of Boys http://familymgrkendra.blogspot.com
Stephanie at A Cooking Bookworm http://www.acookingbookworm.com
Vera at Luxury Reading www.luxuryreading.com
Brooke at I blog 4 books Http://iblog4books.blogspot.com
Lauri at Knits Reads and Reviews http://knitsandreads.blogspot.com
2/23
Kemi at Homemaking Organized Blog http://www.homemakingorganized.com/blog
Tammy Is Blessed http://tammyisblessed.blogspot.com
Becky at Christian Chick's Thoughts http://christianchicksthoughts.blogspot.com
Angela at All Grown Up? http://pantylesspreacherswife.wordpress.com
Tammy at Bluerose's Heart http://bluerosesheart.blogspot.com
2/24
Jennifer at For such a time as this Http://jennifersikora.com
Kathy at Bags, Books & Bon Jovi http://bagsbooksandbonjovi.blogspot.com
Holly at Shelf Life Http://hollysrenee.blogspot.com
Jacque at Good Family Reads Http://familyreads.blogspot.com
Amber at Seasons of Humility http://www.seasonsofhumility.blogspot.com
Tina at Giving N Sharing http://givingnsharing.blogspot.com
2/25
Michelle at Healing Hearts book review blog http://edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com
Maureen's Musings http://musingsbymaureen.blogspot.com
Lori at Frog's Lilypad http://lori1971.blogspot.com
Michelle at Life in Review http://lifeinreviewblog.com
Lauren at 5 Minutes for Books 5minutesforbooks.com
2/27
Pam at Just Like June http://thethriftythings.com
Jennifer at Just Wedeminute http://wedemeyerfamily.blogspot.com
Preslaysa at The Literary Mama www.preslaysa.com
Patty at Broken Teepee http://brokenteepee.com
Nicole at Book Nook Club http://booknookclub.blogspot.com
Reviews by Jane http://www.reviewsbyjane.blogspot.com
Creative Madness Mama http://creativemadnessmama.com
Celena at The Traveling Sisterhood http://thetravellingsisterhood.blogspot.com
Katie at Legacy of a Writer http://katie-mccurdy.blogspot.com
Feb 7, 2012
Jon Lewis, talented author of C.H.A.O.S series, is thrilled to announce the winners from tonight's Alienation Facebook Party and iPad2 giveaway. Thank you all so much for coming and be sure to sign up for updates at the Chaos Page for information about book three!

Congratulations to Frank Tan! You've won a copy of Alienation!
Congratulations to Cherie Renee Clayton! You've won a copy of Alienation and an audio book!
Congratulations to Col Schaefer! You've won a copy of Alienation and the gift certificate of your choice (Amazon, iTunes, Starbucks)! Email your mailing address and choice to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congratulations to Brandy Swain! You've won a copy of Alienation!
Congratulations to Marcy Elder! You've won a copy of Alienation!
Congratulations to Cassie Deaton! You've won a copy of Alienation and the gift certificate of your choice (Amazon, iTunes, Starbucks)! Email your mailing address and choice to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congratulations to Crystal Martinez! You've won a copy of Alienation!
Congratulations to Jenneth Dyck! You've won a copy of Alienation!
Congratulations to Rasha Hattar! You've won a copy of Alienation and the gift certificate of your choice (Amazon, iTunes, Starbucks)! Email your mailing address and choice to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congratulations to Josh Rollins! You've won a copy of Alienation for posting your photo on my wall! Email your mailing address to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congrats to Mindy Brenner! You won a $50 iTunes gift certificate! Email your mailing address to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
Congrats to Jonathon Householder from Illinois! You are the winner of the iPad2 and an copy of Alienation! Send your mailing address to amy {at} litfusegroup.com and we'll get right out to you!
Congrats to all the winners - please email your mailing address to Amy {at} litfusegroup {dot} com.
Jan 31, 2012
Welcome to the Beyond Molasses Creek campaign! Nicole Seitz is recognized as one of today's best storytellers. Her books have been favorably reviewed by the Huffington Post, Booklist, Publisher's Weekly, and more. Romantic Times said, "Seitz writes an unforgettable coming-of-age story about love, loss and purpose. Read with an open mind and heart as you’re reminded that we all fit into the bigger picture of God’s plan. I hope there’s a sequel!", and we agree!
Nicole and her publisher, Thomas Nelson, are celebrating the release of Beyond Molasses Creek with a Fabulous "Friendship" Campaign! Nicole will be traveling state-to-state on a virtual book tour {2/1-2/16} and then wrapping up the festivities with a fun Facebook Party on March 16th. AND ... she's giving away a Kindle Touch and some of her own beautiful artwork - see below for details.
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Nicole Seitz is the author of several critically acclaimed novels - The Inheritance of Beauty, Saving Cicadas, A Hundred Years of Happiness, Trouble the Water, and The Spirit of Sweetgrass. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's School of Journalism, and also has a degree in Illustration from Savannah College of Art & Design. Her paintings are featured on the covers of her books. Visit her at @NicoleSeitz, Facebook and www.nicoleseitz.com for more information. |
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Three lives are bound by a single book . . . and the cleansing waters of Molasses Creek.
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As Ally’s wandering spirit wrestles with a deep longing to flee again, a young woman on the other side of the world escapes her life of slavery in the rock quarries of Nepal. A mysterious sketchbook leads Sunila Kunari to believe there’s more to her story than she’s ever been told, and she’s determined to follow the truth wherever it leads her.
A deep current intertwines the lives of these three souls, and a destiny of freedom, faith, and friendship awaits them all on the banks of Molasses Creek.
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Nicole has woven a large story about faith, friendship and unexpected journeys. One reviewer has said that Beyond Molasses Creek is "a little like Eat, Pray, Love meets The Help". Intrigued? Read the book and join us at the "Friendship" Facebook Party! Join Nicole and friends on the evening of February 16th for a Facebook Author Chat Party. She'll be talking about Beyond Molasses Creek, throwing out some trivia and giving away great prizes - including a Kindle Touch, some of her beautiful artwork and a Book Club Prize Pack (10 copies for your book club/small group and a SKYPE chat with Nicole)! RSVP today!Mark your calendar for 2/16/12 {5PM PST / 8PM EST} and come by for an evening of bookchat, making new friends and story sharing. |
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2/1
Patricia at It's Time To Read Mamaw This story is about sorrow, love, regrets, anticipation and forgiveness. It will make you cry, laugh and probably make you angry in some parts. There will also be celebrations of life and death. But most of all there is very much love, hope and faith in God.
2/2
Cafe Lily Book Reviews Interesting.
Beckie at By The Book Beyond Molasses Creek is first and foremost a wonderful story. Beautifully written, its setting and characters immediately pull you in. It is a novel of things lost and found that will keep you thinking long after the covers have been closed.
2/3
Brenda at WV Stitcher Well developed characters.
Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews This is a thoughtful and beautiful novel, meant to be savored and mulled over. I feel privileged to have read it and I highly recommend it.
Renee at Black 'n Gold Girl's Book Spot I was pleasantly surprised that it was pretty gut-wrenching and covered a lot from interracial relationships, death, single motherhood in the '70s to child labor.
Tammi at Our Homeschooling Pilgrimage I thought Nicole’s descriptions were very good and I could see the scenes and the people within the pages.
2/4
Tracye at A Heart Poured Out In “Beyond Molasses Creek” Nicole Seitz has done a masterful job of writing artfully! From the very first page, I was pulled in. I can not really tell you exactly what it is about her style… I simply connected with it and did not want to be away from it for very long.
Theresa at Just One More Paragraph "Beyond Molasses Creek" is an engrossing and enjoyable read that was difficult to put down.
Kim at Window To My World This story doesn’t have an overtly strong spiritual message. However, if you come to the story with the understanding that no event in our lives takes God by surprise, and that He uses all things for our good and His glory, then you will appreciate the wholeness of this story.
2/6
Vic's Media Room Ms. Seitz has done a great job in the telling of this story and is to be commended especially for her treatment of racism and prejudice.
Chat With Vera The book is written by an excellent story teller and her wordsmithing is delightful - a real pleasure to read.
Janet at Along the Way Overall, this is a fantastic story that I highly recommend.
2/7
Lindsay at Live To Read ~Krystal The reader will be absorbed into the book, it is very difficult to put the book down.
Whitney at Rambles of a SAHM From the beginning pages I fell in love with this novel. It reads like a classic Southern fiction tale. The story is beautifully written about a very sad time in our country’s history. Throughout the narrative you are swept between Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and Kathmandu, Nepal. Ms. Seitz’s way with words puts you right in the midst of these complex places. In my opinion this one is going to hang around for a long time.
Edward at Summitt Book Reviews If you’re looking for a book you won’t want to put down, it’s Beyond Molasses Creek. Nicole Seitz takes a unique idea and weaves it into a delightful tale that is a quick and easy read. I whizzed through it and enjoyed every page.
Cindy's Book Reviews Nicole Seitz has a wonderful talent to describe scenes and characters to the point that you can picture them in your mind.
2/8
Crystal at Cinnamon Hollow “ Beyond Molasses Creek “, by Nicole Seitz, is one of those books that thoroughly shows you how different lives lived side-by-side, especially in the deep south, can be. It also shows you that cultures around the world can be vastly different yet intertwined at the same time. I was captivated by the characters in this story.
Lydia at The overweight Bookshelf Nicole Seitz is a wordsmith who understand that a single well-placed word can alter the whole feeling of a sentence or tone of dialogue.
Katie at Legacy of a Writer The writing style was well done...vivid and emotion filled. Nicole Seitz did a great job on this—bringing the deep passion and emotions onto the page.
Lauri at Knits Reads and Reviews All in all a good book, the characters were well developed and the plot was interesting. I had fun learning about each of the 3 characters, their personalities, their past, their thoughts and feeling.
Courtney's Chitter Chatter What I loved most about this book was the stories of the past from all these characters and how it affects their futures. I was dying to see how it would all come together!! I loved the growth that we got to experience with Ally and also with Sunila!
Jill at Book, Books Everywhere I loved the mystery presented by the cover and spent quite a bit of time wondering how the three lives were going to come together. As the pieces started to fall into place I really appreciated how faith, doubts, loss and love were woven together into this story about the past and the present and how they fit together.
2/9
Brooke at I blog 4 books Overall, the story is incredibly poignant. Seitz addresses tough issues—racism, human trafficking, single parenting, loss, death. She handles each topic realistically and with great sensitivity. I would recommend Beyond Molasses Creek to anyone looking for a deep, emotional story
Paula at Grace Reign Beautiful, and redemptive, Beyond Molasses Creek had slipped into my soul and become a part of me.
Joan at Book Reviews from an Avid Reader This novel grabbed me at the first chapter and didn't let go until the final page.
Maggie at Tethered Mommy I am a sucker for Southern fiction and this book played right into that soft spot.
2/10
Marg at Simply Shop and Save From the very beginning, reading the prologue of ‘Beyond Molasses Creek’, I was hooked on this book and had to keep reading.
Tammy Is Blessed I really enjoyed this book and, in fact, read it in one sitting.
Ruth at This, That and the Other Thing I read a couple of chapters of Beyond Molasses Creek aloud because the language was just that beautiful. Nicole Seitz can really make words sing.
2/11
Pattie at Fresh-Brewed Writer The language is evocative and beautiful and, in places, haunting. I enjoyed reading the story.
Becky at Christian Chick's Thoughts Beyond Molasses Creek is a book to be savored.
Donna at Books and Such This is a wonderful story of love, loss, and forgiveness. Nicole Seitz crafts a story that draws the reader in with vibrant characters and realistic situations.
Melanie at A Year of Jubilee Reviews After reading this book straight through, the first word I said was 'Outstanding'!
Sharon at A I dream of writing for God I got attached to several of the characters. I would actually read this one a second time.
2/13
Carrie at Farming On Faith This book causes much reflection and makes one thankful for the world we live in today.
Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood Nicole Seitz's Beyond Molasses Creek is an aptly named tale. It unfolds smooth, sweet, and slow until you are completely immersed in Ally's story. Ally and Vesey are beautifully developed characters, and Seitz does a masterful job of placing them in the context of their place and time. Beyond Molasses Creek is not a romance; it's a love story that will take you completely by surprise.
Renee at Doorkeeper For me, Ally’s story is a cautionary tale of how choices which begin as temporary fixes for pain or confusion can transform our lives into very sad journeys. I was glad when the threads of hope the author sprinkled throughout this novel eventually blossomed into a joyful ending.
Kathleen at KD Quilts Beyond Molasses Creek is such a unique book in the way Nicole Seitz planned out and wrote the storyline tying together three very different lives.
Lena at A Christian Writer's World Author interview and book giveaway.
2/14
Jacque at Good Family Reads The writing takes you to another time and lets you see deep inside the minds of her characters. If you are looking for a book with more meaning and depth, be sure to add this to your winter reading list. This book is about the past and finding forgiveness and learning to have faith in God.
Amber at Seasons of Humility Creative, bold, and moving, Beyond Molasses Creek is a unique read.
Casey at Writing for Christ The novel is a masterful writing creation.
Laurel at Let's Go on a Picnic! I found it to be a very entertaining book with unforgettable characters.
Deb at Just Short of Crazy Not many books cause me to feel the heartbreak of the characters, but Ms. Seitz writes so poetic that you can’t help but feel what the characters are feeling. Just as I felt their torment I also felt their joy. Once I started reading Beyond Molasses Creek I was unable to put it down. I really recommend adding this book to your “to be read” list. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Maureen's Musings As I got going in this book, I could not put it down. I recommend this as quite an eye opener, and how you want this to end, it most likely doesn't.
2/15
Michelle at Life in Review I very highly recommend this book! The writing is exquisite and the story hooked me from the very start.
Jennifer at A Heart Full of Love Beyond Molasses Creek by Nicole Seitz is a thought-provoking book that sucked me in right from the beginning. The characters are well-developed and sympathetic.
Amber at Living at the Whitehead's Zoo Molasses Creek takes you with Ally as her life falls apart and as she rebuilds it. Love notes from heaven, tears, and compassion this book shares some emotional journeys.
Preslaysa at The Literary Mama What a beautiful story. The characterization was top notch.
Ariel at The Librarian's Bookshelf I LOVED this book.
Lauren at 5 Minutes for Books I recommend Nicole Sietz’s Beyond Molasses Creek.
Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful I loved this book! Nicole has a very unique method of storytelling that drew me in from the first few sentences, and she consistently delivered throughout the entire book.
Aprils Lifestyle Show Nicole Seitz had me after the first chapter, then you begin to read about Sunila's story and you cannot put the book down. You want this girl to escape and find her roots. You will enjoy this read with it's emotional roller coaster ride.
JHS at Colloquium Every so often a book draws its reader so completely into the story that the reader both wants to read feverishly to find out how the story ends and is simultaneously sad upon reading the last word because that means that the wonderful relationship he/she is enjoying with the characters and their experiences has concluded. Beyond Molasses Creek is precisely such a book.
2/16
Michelle at Beyond The Silver and The Gold Nicole Seitz has written a masterful work of art (if it can be called as such) in Beyond Molasses Creek . I've gotten to know each of the characters very well. I lived with their pain and their joy. I cried as they finally discovered their truths. This is a beautiful story of love, self-discovery, friendship and family.
Carlybird's Home Beyond Molasses Creek is a very good book. It is different from many of the books I read and that is a good thing. There is a lot of emotion and a lot of issues to be dealt with, but Nicole does it beautifully.
Kaylea at My Scrappy Life In all, this is an interesting read. This review introduced me to a new writer. I enjoyed Seitz's writing style and plan to look into her other novels.
Deborah at A Bookish Libraria~The Bookish Dame Reviews I recommend this book to those who enjoy an author of intelligence and fine storytelling. And to those who enjoy a woman's story...one with a strong woman character who is capable of overcoming adversity and loss to find her way "home." Like I did, you may come to love the waters of Molasses Creek, and you may find a word of inspiration there.
Reviews By Molly Beyond Molasses Creek is both a dramatically complex read AND a light, refreshing read. It’s not often you find a book that can be BOTH of those things in such way that the reader never looses interest. This book is wonderfully written in a style that will win your heart, your mind, your soul. Filled wonderful messages between the lines, you’ll loose your heart to Molasses Creek!
Mary's Cup of Tea You really need to get the book and read it! It is heartbreaking and sad, but also will make you cheer.
Janet at Along the Way The main focus in this story is one of timeless and unconditional friendship. No matter what happened throughout the years for Allie and Vesey, their strong roots and camaraderie is quietly and simply celebrated. Overall, this is a fantastic story that I highly recommend.
Jan 24, 2012
Congratulations to the winners from Bill Giovannetti's Four Letter Words Blog tour! Don't forget to pick up extra copies of Four Letter Words and keep up with him on these sites: http://maxgrace.wordpress.com,http://fourletterwords.org and http://www.innermess.com.
Many will also be receiving a download of Bill's new ebook - look for that in your inbox soon!
Congratulations to our winners! Please e-mail your address to christen {at} litfusegroup {dot} com
Written with today's teens and young adults in mind, Giovannetti deals directly with the tough issues on today's touchy subjects. Dr. Bob Wenz a professor at Ravi Zacharias Ministries says, Four Letter Words provides "a much needed foundation ... real, tranpsarent and uncompromised!"
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Dr. Bill Giovannetti is a professor at A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary and the senior pastor of Neighborhood Church of Redding. An experienced speaker and author, Bill informs the mind in ways that touch the heart. He enjoys life with his wife and two kids in northern California. For more information about Bill and his other books, visit http://maxgrace.wordpress.com, http://fourletterwords.org and http://www.innermess.com. |
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Thou shalt tolerate every opinion... except the Christian's. Today's postmodern "prime directive" leaves many followers of Jesus tongue-tied. In the global village, isn't it unreasonable, and even dangerous, to suggest that the Bible has a monopoly on truth? The church needs a new breed of Christ-follower. We need Christ-followers who are alert to today's touchy ideas, the truths that fire up more heat than light. We need Christ-followers who can make a clear case for the Bible's worldview; who are ready to help our friends think through their beliefs; who can recognize inconsistencies and challenge them; and who can do all of this with humility, confidence, humor, and love. For more information visit http://fourletterwords.org. |
Bill is celebrating the new Kindle edition of Four Letter Words (for only $4.99)! He’ll be traveling coast to coast over the next few weeks on a virtual book tour and he's celebrating by hosting a great giveaway!
He'll be giving away two gift certificates to Amazon (in the amount of $50 and $25) and free downloads of his yet-to-be-released title, Recession-Proof: Living a God-Blessed Life in a Messed Up World.
Here’s the Scoop:
To enter to win these fabulous, earth-shattering prizes:
1. One $50 gift certificate to Amazon.com
2. One $25 gift certificate to Amazon.com.
3. Copies of Bill's yet-to-be-released title, RECESSION-PROOF: Living a God-Blessed Life in a Messed Up World.
Do 1 or more of the following:
1. Like Bill on Facebook Here.
2. Fill out this form to sign up for Bill’s updates (just a few a year!)
3. Everyone who purchases a Kindle copy of Four Letter Words (here: http://amzn.to/yfGLHP) AND joins my Facebook Author Page will receive an advance copy of my ebook: Recession-Proof: Living a God-Blessed Life in a Messed Up World and be entered to win one of the gift cards!
Winners will be announced on 2/15/12. You’ll receive the link for a digital copy of Recession-Proof on that date.
**If you have any questions, please contact info@litfusegroup.com.
TO QUALIFY FOR THE CONTEST, PLEASE ENTER YOUR INFO HERE
1/26
Tea Time with Annie Kate Clearly, colloquially, and personally, Giovannetti touches some of the deepest points of the Bible and traditional apologetics.
Mocha with Linda This book endeavors to help teens know what and why they believe so that they are able to defend their faith. It has some excellent points and I like how each chapter begins with several Scriptures relating to that chapter's focus. The title is catchy, as the Four Letter Words of which Bill Giovannetti writes are not edgy but are simply words such as True, Know, Pain, Evil, and Wait, among others.
1/27
Kris at Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers I think it would probably be good for an adult study group and especially good for college-aged groups since that seems to be an age that thrives on ferreting out their own personal belief system and enjoying a healthy debate.
Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful Four Letter Words is an excellent book, and one I recommend to anyone - Christian or non-Christian - who is willing to take a moment to really think through what and why they think and believe what they do. The author approaches issues of faith and opinion on a range of topics relevant to today's culture in a way that is direct and unapologetic, but respectful and sincere.
Becky at In The Pages A "needed" book?? Yep, this is it! I have three teenage boys that I am trying to prepare for the big world - and what do we discuss with them the most?? How to stand firm in what we believe and how to share that with others. So I feel that Bill Giovannetti has hit the nail on the head with his book.
1/28
Dana at Because I Said So I found the book to be very interesting and thought provoking.
Debra at Footprints in the Butter I have really enjoyed the book. Giovannetti really makes me think, which is a great thing.
1/30
Janelle at Cole Clan Adventures With a book like Four Letter Words, I think you will want to slowly move through it. There is so much great information that you want to allow that information to really take root in your mind, so you can call upon that knowledge in the future.
1/31
Susan at In This Together In three simple words, Four Letter Words: Conversations on Faith’s Beauty and Logic , is honest, timely, and necessary. I believe author Bill Giovannetti has put forth a theologically sound, informative, and well articulated apologetic work.
Tanya at In theDailies Four Letter Words, by Dr. Bill Giovannetti, seeks to equip readers (specifically upper high school and college-aged believers) with the logic behind our faith and the prevalent holes in modern thinking. While I don’t agree with everything he wrote, the book offers an excellent starting point for contemporary apologetics.
2/1
Trish at 5 Minutes for Books One thing I found so fascinating about this book is that it identifies so many of the ideas that I remember debating with my peers in high school and college without realizing someone else had thought of them first! In addition to a detailed study of how faith and logic work together to lead us to the God of love, Four Letter Words: Conversations on Faith’s Beauty and Logic also offers practical suggestions for young people on how to engage with those who are interested in a way that is both respectful and kind.
Lori Morning Glories and Moonflowers Wow! Where should I start? I highlighted sentences, underlined quotes and read pages aloud to my husband. Everyone, Christians and non-believers alike, should read this book! It answers questions that many are too afraid to discuss. The author, Bill Giovannetti, is entertaining as he enlightens the world to the truth of the Bible and God. This book will change your life and possibly save it.
Theresa at Just One More Paragraph Four Letter Word s is a powerful book - one that will make you take notice and could ruffle a few feathers. Dr. Bill Giovannetti doesn't mince words and puts things out there for one to look at and think about. He deals with "touchy" subjects that most Christians won't or can't discuss with non-believers. Dr. Giovannetti addresses how to handle these subjects and stand up for what one believes in.
2/3
Crystal at My Reading Room I found Four Letter Words to be a very interesting read. I think Bill Giovannetti worked very hard on this book. It is well thought out and the arguments are well-made and the research is well-done.
Jill at Book Review Travels What I immediately liked about this book is that the author expressed that the teachings from the Bible are original and anything else that tries to replace those teachings are copied versions of the real thing.
Kim at Window To My World Four Letter Words is a book packed – PACKED – packed with useful, thought provoking questions that you can use as an entryway into conversations that explain your faith to unbelievers.
2/4
Laura at Lighthouse Academy Author interview
Kaylea at My Scrappy Life I think he hit the nail on the head. Written in an easy to read format, the manuscript seems to unpack each issue in an easy to follow format.
2/6
Lindsay at Live To Read The author writes in a very personal manner, the reader may feel as if he/she truly knows the author and can understand his point on the issues.
Laura at Harvest Lane Cottage This book was amazing to me. I felt like I'd gone through a college course. It explained terms I'd heard thrown around like modernism, post-modernism, animism. The author explained things in clear terms that I'd understood.
Alyssa at Life With A Mission I think that this book will be great for seekers, new believers, and skeptics.
Haley at The Life and Lies of an inanimate flying object I really liked this book. It was very blunt, unafraid of offending people. It's short, and is the kind of book I would read through in a day, and then keep for reference whenever I wondered about something.
2/7
ML at Chronicles of a Writer I was very impressed with Giovannetti's natural style of writing. At times he his comical and at other times, very revealing of his own walk with Jesus Christ.
Joan at Book Reviews from an Avid Reader Giovannetti's “talking points” are very effective. He is great at pointing out the hidden assumptions and inconsistencies in thinking. He has really thought through the issues and the potential arguments others might put forward when questioning Christianity.
Faith at Labor Not In Vain Author interview
2/8
Deena at A Peek At My Bookshelf Author Interview
Paula at The Phantom Paragrapher Four Letter Words is prepared to be a tool for Christians to get to the heart of the issues and equip us with the tools to turn our challenges, our tribulations into triumphs and our faith into opportunities to share with others his greatness.
Stephen at Manifest Blog Giovannetti writes enjoyable prose, alternating between humor and playing the reader’s heart strings, which is a welcomed break from most apologists' styles when dealing with such dry material. He uses a lot of personal stories about sharing his faith with friends, love, loss, and embarrassment that pull apologetics out the theoretical realm of philosophy and plant it squarely in the practical, and being a practical person I appreciate that a lot.
Becky at Christian Chick's Thoughts Giovannetti writes in a clear, logical voice, and his examples serve to bring each topic out of the abstract and into reality. This book is a must-read for teens, whether they are questioning their faith, exploring the idea of Christianity, or trying to explain their faith in Christ to others ... and adults would benefit from it, too! I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
2/9
Shannon at Faith Filled Reading Four Letter Words will equip you to go out into the world in confidence so that you will be able to speak the truth about Jesus with love.
Kate at The Parchment Girl If you’re looking for a basic introduction to apologetics, this is a good book to start with. It’s really well organized (lots of bullet points and sub-sections) and written in an accessible conversational style.
Jennifer at The Radar Report It's a great book for young people of today who have questions about the basics of faith.
Sarah at Growing for Christ I really think this has a place on every Bible and Christ believing Christian’s shelf so that you’ll know how to confront the lies that often come at us, and the ‘Christian’ who doesn’t hold to Scriptural truth should also read this book.
2/10
Andrew's Blog Four Letter Words taught me the importance of exploring the truth of our Faith in God.
Jacque at Good Family Reads There is a lot of meat in this book and should be read as a study guide or for further exploration on what it takes to be a Christian than just reading through in an evening or two. I really liked the talking points and all of the scriptures that were included.
Kalyn at The Feminine Intellect Four Letter Words is a must-read for anyone wanting answers to the tough questions, but I think this book would be particularly beneficial to youth groups and the college bound.
Stacie at Hobbit Door I like how the book is divided. I like that you can jump to anyone one of the words and brush up on that topic.
2/11
Barbara at Real Life View Ever find yourself in that situation where you are having a deep conversation about faith and you just can't answer the difficult questions? Sometimes it seems like every word you say to defend your faith comes out wrong. The book Four Letter Words, by Dr. Bill Giovanetti gives believers the tools to defend their faith.
Linda at Christian Book Reviews Four Letter Words, by Bill Giovannetti, is a spectacular book. These four letter words are vital to our spiritual life. Each chapter gives the different religious views on the specific word for that chapter. You will be challenged to consider which one stands out as truth.
Tammy at blog...blog...blog Four Letter Words jam packed with the information we need to help us stand firm in our faith and it is an excellent resource for preparing our sons and daughters for the world. It would also make for a great resource for bible study.
Splashes Of Joy Sometimes a lot can be said in just one word, and it doesn’t have to be a big word. That’s what this book is all about. Words with just ‘four letters’ in them, words we use all of the time, but we don’t aways think about their meanings. The words in this book are: True; Know; Pain; Ouch; Evil; Word; Damn; Wait and Hope. When I read this book, I was amazed at how much information the author included on each of these words.
2/12
Michelle at Beyond The Silver and The Gold Reading this book is a learning experience for me. Even though this book is geared for the teenage or young adult reader, it made even me begin to question my own thoughts and beliefs. The title itself: Four Letter Words, is already thought provoking and makes one think of that four letter word that's usually bleeped out on TV. However, these actually refer to the four letter word titles of each chapter such as TRUE, EVIL, OUCH, PAIN, DAMN. What I appreciate about the writer is that even as he dishes out the truth about the beliefs that challenge the Bible, he also offers up the Bible truths in a compassionate, easy to understand way so that you really get to know God better.
Heather at Proud Book Nerd It looks like a lot, but it reads fast. It’s written in a way that’s easy to read and fully understand. I found myself wanting to read it. Not wanting to stop. With nonfiction, this is EXTREMELY rare for me. Especially self-help/how-to books. I often find them somewhat dry, and generally more apt to put me to sleep than to make me want to keep going. So not the case here. I was pleasantly surprised.
Jan 20, 2012
Sue Duffy is back with a brand new three book series, Red Returning. The first release, The Sound of Red Returning, is a breathless and unexpected tale. After losing everyone she loves, concert pianist Liesl Bower has nowhere to go but to escape into her music. Searching for the peace she usually finds in her concertos and sonatas, Liesl can’t shake the feeling that she is being haunted by her past. As she’s giving a concert for the president in Washington, D.C., she looks out into the audience to see a man that she’s seen before — the night her professor was attacked — and now he’s back!
Romantic Times gives it 4 Stars: Book one in the Red Returning series starts out just right with political intrigue, suspense and just enough romance to keep readers guessing and interested. Well-defined secondary characters add that extra zing to the plot.
Publisher’s Weekly: The pop-pop-pop of surprise resolutions at the end makes a fine coda.
To celebrate, Sue has teamed up with her publisher, Kregel Publications, for the "Red Returning" Giveaway! One winner will receive a brand new Kindle Fire!
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Sue Duffy is an award-winning writer whose work has appeared in Moody Magazine, The Presbyterian Journal, Sunday Digest, and The Christian Reader. She is the author of Mortal Wounds (Barbour, 2001) and Fatal Loyalty (Kregel, 2010). Sue has also contributed to Stories for a Woman’s Heart (Multnomah). She and her husband, Mike, have three grown children. Find out more at www.sueduffybooks.com. |
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After losing everyone she loves, concert pianist Liesl Bower has nowhere to go but to escape into her music. Searching for the peace she usually finds in her concertos and sonatas, Liesl can’t shake the feeling that she is being haunted by her past . . . and by someone following her. When she spots a familiar and eerie face in the audience of a concert she’s giving for the president in Washington, DC, the scariest day of her life comes back to her with a flash. It has been fifteen years since Liesl watched her beloved Harvard music mentor assaulted on a dark night in Moscow and just as long since the CIA disclosed to her that he’d been spying for Russia. She had seen that man--that eerie face--the night Professor Devoe was attacked. And now he’s back--and coming for her. |
On the run and struggling to rely on the protection of CIA agent Ava Mullins and handsome newspaper reporter Cade O’Brien, Liesl learns she is the prey of an underground cell of Russian KGB agents determined to restore their country to its former Soviet might. But what she doesn’t know is that she is in possession of something--a piece of sheet music--that Russian intelligence is now frantic to find. Inside that music is a secret code, the hidden transcriptions of her deceased mentor, that clearly identify a Russian mole operating inside Israel’s Department of Defense, a mole with enough power and access to execute a daring assassination that no one would see coming.
Caught in a deadly conflict between American and Russian undercover agents, this innocent young pianist is just trying to survive her own personal trauma. Through it all, Liesl must learn that no matter how dark her world grows or how fiercely her enemies pursue her, God is still in control--if only she can yield herself to His grace. Read an excerpt.
Sue and her publisher, Kregel Publications, are giving away a “Red Returning” prize package worth over $200 to one lucky winner!!!! (1/23-2/11)
Enter the Sue Duffy’s Giveaway today and you could win:
* A brand new Kindle Fire with Wi-Fi
* The Sound of Red Returning by Sue Duffy
To enter click one of the icons below. But, hurry! The giveway ends on 2/11. Sue will be announcing the winner of the “Red Returning” Giveaway on February 13th on the Litfuse website!
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1/23
Michele at My Life & Kids Library I love a story where God is just working in the background/behind the scenes and the main character finally realizes it at the end of their ordeal and totally gives their life to God. It's always nice when they find their true love when they have been through so much that they think they will never love again. I can't wait to read the next installment of this story!
Holly at 2 Kids and Tired Books I enjoyed this novel so much. These characters are likeable and you care for them immediately. The intrigue and suspense are fast paced, but perfect and not predictable. I loved the musical aspect and the cleverness of sending codes through sheet music. Amazing. I am thrilled that this is the first in a trilogy and I look forward to more from Sue Duffy.
Tina's Book Reviews I loved the way Duffy mixed romance, music and the intense mystery all together creating a intriguing character in Liesel who as a result of the past and present time periods, we see grow as a character. The best aspect is the actual reveal, I love when a book surprises me after I think I've solved it.
Amy at A Nest in the Rocks It's not easy to achieve the perfect balance of suspense and romance, of intrigue and honesty, of double agents and forgiveness, but that is exactly what Sue Duffy has done in The Sound of Red Returning. Definitely not predictable, this suspenseful story will keep you on your toes as you try to determine exactly whom is spying for whom and just who has no hidden angles.
1/24
Becky at In The Pages The story is fast-paced and full of action. All of the musical themes are wonderful and for those of you that enjoy a little love story - yep, there's that as well! Duffy's first novel in this series is page-turner!
Abi at 4 the LOVE of BOOKS If you want a WOW Book with suspense each turn of the page as the plot thickens then this is the book for you. It is definitely a page turn, can't put it down type of book.
Pam at Southern Gal Loves to Read To use a well-worn cliche, she "had me" at page one and never lost me up to the very end. Intrigue, suspense, danger, and romance all came together into a well-crafted story that was hard to put down.
Valentina at Carabosse's Library The suspense keeps you reading, as the plot tightens around Liesl. Once the story gets started, it’s hard to put down.
1/25
Nise' at Under the Boardwalk The novel was fast paced and kept me guessing.
Janelle at Cole Clan Adventures There is a great deal of action in this book, suspense and, of course, a sprinkling of romance. You cannot help but love the characters. They are real and could be people you know. They are instantly likeable, and you want to keep going along in the journey with them.
Julie at More Of Him Word of caution: Do not start reading this book just before wanting to go to sleep because you won't be able to put it down. This story had me with the first page and I never lost interest.
1/26
Melanie at Christian Bookshelf Reviews
Tammi at Our Homeschooling Pilgrimage I enjoyed this story very much, The characters are very likable and and I fell in love with them right away.
Lena at Christian Writer's World Author interview and book giveaway!
1/27
Christine at The IE Mommy Duffy writes an inspiring story of one young woman’s courage in the face of fear when the past she thought was behind her collides with her present. She successfully draws you into her story where you find intrigue and suspense along with a depth not often found in books with these elements.
Mocha with Linda Spies, counterspies, CIA agents, political intrigue, dysfunctional family baggage, and a hint of romance all intertwine in this captivating book, and an unexpected twist at the end leaves potential for an upcoming sequel.
Kim at Window To My World Sue Duffy’s novel is a great read, and one I am thrilled to recommend to my readers!
1/28
Vic's Media Room Duffy has given us a unique thriller that will keep you on the edge of your chair as you read and flip pages as fast as possible.
1/30
Joy at Splashes Of Joy This is a wonderful thriller that will warm your heart, and you are sure to enjoy! Go grab a copy to read and enjoy for yourself!
Jeremy at Christian Fiction Addiction A finely tuned and well-orchestrated suspense novel, The Sound of Red Returning held me spellbound from the opening chapter.
Carrie at Our Blessed Chaos Have you ever read a book that is so well written that at the height of the scene your heartrate actually speeds up? This is one of those books...except better, because there are several of those twisting tension filled moments!!!
Laura at Lighthouse Academy THE SOUND OF RED RETURNING is the first book I’ve read by Sue Duffy. It is book one in the Red Returning trilogy, and a very nice start.
2/1
Wendy at Minding Spot The Sound of Red Returning is a titillating romantic suspense that had me up late burning the midnight oil. The characters just leap to life from the pages; their depiction is so realistic. Emotional, heartfelt, inspiring and fraught with tension, The Sound of Red Returning is a vastly entertaining read!
Kaylea at My Scrappy Life I found this to be a well written book. It has a strong plot line that will keep your attention.
Aizess at Homeschool Journal Sue Duffy has spun an intriguing web of mystery and suspense! She had me guessing until near the end. Once I thought I figured out who the Russian moles were, Sue would throw another surprise my way. And the presence of an additional unknown person amped-up the mystery even more!
Patricia at (Live and) Dream a little dream In this story you feel a participant and if at times you hold your breath as the story unfolds, you continuously feel the adrenaline flowing through your veins! Your senses are involved 100%!
Annette at A Well-Watered Garden I really, really, liked this book!
2/2
Krystal at Live To Read ~Krystal This novel is exciting and fast-paced, the reader will be hard-pressed to find a slow excerpt in the entire novel. The different environments and settings will serve to make the novel more exciting and innovative. The reader has many more books to look forward to from this author!
Dina at 4 Lettre Words The Sound of Red Returning is a fast-paced thriller with relatable characters. I always enjoy CIA/Spy-themed books, so this one went quickly for me. (Pretty sure I finished it in 3 nights.) A surprise to me, was the included romance. It was very believable, tho. There is also plenty of God-based faith throughout the story. I very much look forward to reading the next book!
Lori at Morning Glories and Moonflowers If you enjoy fast paced, thrilling stories set in exotic locations, The Sound of Red Returning is for you!
2/3
Katie at Legacy of a Writer There was suspense, a bit of mystery, and a journey of healing hurts and redemption.
Dani at Elle in Organic Shoes It’s no wonder the Romantic Times gave the Sound of Red Returning 4 Stars. As Book 1 in the Red Returning Series Sue Duffy knows how to capture an audience and take them on a gripping journey full of suspense and mystery.
Stacie at Hobbit Door I must admit I was pleasantly surprised. I could not put this book down after picking it up. It was very well written with some fascinating and surprising plot twists. I did not expect the plot twists (always a good sign). It had good pacing and I did not feel like quality was sacrificed by the length. There was sufficient fleshing out of each character without getting lost in rabbit trails.
Chrystal at Book Loving Girl I loved how we're thrust into the action right from the start. I was flipping through the pages of this book as fast as I could read. Especially when I got to the middle, I was literally unable to set it down. There were times when I could just feel the tension oozing through it's pages.
2/4
Pam at Daysong Reflections It grabbed me and took me for an incredibly suspense filled ride.
Joan at Book Reviews from an Avid Reader A well crafted book.
2/6
Hattie at Everything Has A Purpose This Christian fiction novel, The Sound of Red Returning, made me meditate on my prayer life. It is not easy to grab for Jesus while running from danger. It is so much easier to learn about His character while life is quiet and simple.
Lizzie at A Dusty Frame I enjoyed reading the story and trying to figure out the mystery–which I couldn’t until the end when the author put the pieces together!
Jill at Frugal Plus
Jetties Ramblings I love the suspense in this book, and how it keeps building. Sue Duffy makes you feel you are right there in the dark, trying to escape the danger.
2/7
The Bookish Dame Reviews From the first gripping chapter until the last, you will find yourself flying through this book.
Becky at Christian Chick's Thoughts The Sound of Red Returning is an intriguing, action-packed story that kept me guessing. I enjoyed the twists and turns, and I never quite had everything figured out!
Donna at Books and Such This is the first book in a new series by Sue Duffy, and it has me hooked for the rest! I really enjoyed the characters, suspense, and story. They seemed realistic and the story flowed nicely. I love the double-agent twist that leaves you with questions and concerns. This book is great for readers of suspense and for book groups that enjoy multi-layered discussions
2/8
Leticia at My Daily Trek This book has some great moments of suspense and believe it or not a blooming romance in the midst of all the chaos.
Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood Sue Duffy's The Sound of Red Returning is a good old-fashioned spy novel that is a blast to read. Filled with unexpected plot twists, the tale keeps you guessing from beginning to end. The best part of the book, however, is its truly likable characters. The Sound of Red Returning is a page-turner that I really enjoyed.
Andrew's Blog If you're looking for a new mystery story to discover then look no farther and read this one! Come on and jump right in and help uncover the identity of the mole! Sue Duffy has written the next bestselling mystery series!
VE @ Duncan Heights The writing was the high point for me, and the music.
2/9
Pamela at I Read. Do You? The Sound of Red Returning is suspenseful and exciting, but it is also romantic and sweet.
Tammy is Blessed The storyline was fantastic and I loved that I thought I had the mystery figured out, only to realize that I didn't - but it was still believable. That's a hard balance to achieve! Loved the characters and felt that they were well developed as well as relatable and realistic.
Maureen's Musings Once you open this book it will grab your immediate attention.
Andi at Radiant Light This was a very intriguing and interesting book. It pulled me right in from the beginning. Liesel was a character that you care about right from the beginning. The love story is not mushy or overly done. There is lots of action to keep you on the edge of your seat. This was the first book I have read of Sue Duffy, but it won't be my last! I highly recommend it!
2/10
Reviews By Molly Sue Duffy has brought her readers a novel that is not only the start to a sure-to-be fantastic new series, but a novel that will move you completely and wholly, following the characters lives as if they were your own. The intense complexity that Ms. Duffy uses to create both the plot line and Lisle’s character is truly stunning. This book is a twist of emotional ups, downs and messages that will leave the reader reflecting on this book for a long time to come.
Amber at Living in Whitehead's Zoo The story flows nicely and is full of suspense. You grip your seat as you try to solve the mystery who is the mole? Who is hunting Liesel? Sue Duffy did a great job with this one and I would gladly pick up another.
Michelle at Life in Review The writing is superb and the story will hook you from start to finish. The story is complex and the characters are vivid and realistic.
Marjorie at The Writer's Tool The characters are well developed; the plot moves along, leaving me breathless at times. And I love the spiritual thread that moves through the story as well. Sue Duffy has done a masterful job at spinning a spy thriller that holds the reader's attention through the last page.
2/11
Crystal at Just Another Book Lovin' Girl I loved how we're thrust into the action right from the start. I was flipping through the pages of this book as fast as I could read. Especially when I got to the middle, I was literally unable to set it down. There were times when I could just feel the tension oozing through it's pages.
Kate at Fuzzy Black Slippers & a Pink Hoodie The Sound of Red Returning, is a breathless and unexpected tale.
Kianna's Korner Sue's writing is well- expressed and eloquent. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys and well-written mystery.
We are thrilled to host this blog tour! Be sure to visit the blogs - all the bloggers have a copy to give away!
Order your own copy here (you may see a different cover, but ignore that - it's the same book!) and start each morning with daily encouragement for your soul.
The 2012 edition of Mornings with Jesus features devotionals by Tricia Goyer, Judy K Baer, Gwen Ford Faulkenberry, Sharon HInck, Keri Wyatt Kent, Camy Tang, and Erin Keeley Marshall.
Invite Jesus into your day.
Tricia Goyer has helped organize the Mornings with Jesus blog tour and had this to say about the project:
Dear Friend,
If there is one thing that has transformed my daily walk it's spending mornings with Jesus. When I was a young Christian I struggled with past mistakes, old longings, and struggled to make it through the day without blowing up at my husband and kids. Then, years ago, I made it a goal to get up early to write. That worked for a while but then I felt guilty. I used the excuse that I didn't have time for God--to read my Bible and pray--yet I was making time to write. I soon changed that and I started putting God first. Through my morning quiet time, God has brought healing to me in those quiet morning hours. I am also strengthened and filled with joy!
Maybe you already have a morning, quiet-time ritual. If so, I hope that Mornings WIth Jesus will be another great resource that you can look to for hope and inspiration. If you don't, my prayer is that this book will encourage you to set aside five minutes to connect with Jesus before you start the day. I was blessed to be able to write this book with many great women. We poured out our hearts and shared our lives, but most importantly, we highlighted how you can deepen your relationship with Jesus as you walk with Him through the pages of God's Word. May you be blessed!
Thankful for Him!
Tricia Goyer
The warm and friendly voices of seven women reflect on the character and teachings of Jesus, and encourage you to draw near to Him and invite His presence, truth and relevance into your life. Each devotion includes a Scripture verse, an insightful reflection on Jesus' words, wisdom, compassion and comfort, and faith step that will and inspire and challenge you.
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Jan 16, 2012

This second installment in Lewis' series was inspired by the life of King David. As a boy, David started out as an underdog, but went on to overcome an unlikely beginning and high-level betrayal to become a respected warrior and national hero. Lewis says, "In Alienation I want readers to realize that like Colt, we all have a special calling. We just need to figure out what it is." Young adults and fans of graphic novels will find Alienation and the C.H.A.O.S. series a thrilling read, which includes a graphic novel prologue and a sketchbook of characters.
"Flying motorcycles, shape-shifting aliens, comic book superscience, and mind-control technology...a fun read...."
--Publishers Weekly
"Comic book characters come to life! ...Brisk pace, aliens and jet-packs--Lewis is a veteran of the comic-book industry, and his plot is a domestic read-alike of Alex Rider."
--Kirkus Reviews
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After his parents were killed in a car accident, Colt McAllister was drawn into a world he thought only existed in comic books-one where mind control, jet packs, and flying motorcycles don't even scratch the surface. Along with his best friends Oz and Danielle, Colt is now training at the secret Central Headquarters Against the Occult and Supernatural academy. But strange accidents seem to follow him. . . even with the security of the school grounds. What first seems random soon turns deadly. But who is targeting Colt? |
As the alien invasions increase in frequency and force, C.H.A.O.S resources are taxed to the limit and they're forced to utilize the new recruits. In the midst of battle, Colt will discover some startling revelations . . . about himself, his friendship with Oz, and why he has been chosen to defeat this alien attack against earth.
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Jon S. Lewis is the coauthor of the Grey Griffins trilogy (over 500,000 books in print) and the upcoming Grey Griffins Clockwork Chronicles. He also writes for the DC COMICS family of publishers. He resides with his family in Arizona. For more about Jon and the series, visit www.chaosnovels.com. |
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The invasion was only the beginning! Jon is celebrating the next adventure in his fast-paced series with an explosive giveaway!

One thrill-seeker will receive:
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on February 7th. Winner will be announced at the Alienation Facebook Party on 2/7. Jon will be hosting an Author Chat, giving away copies of the books and gift certificates to iTunes and Amazon.com! Don't miss a second of the intrigue!
Grab your copy of Alienation and join Jon on the evening of February 7th for an author chat, spy training (How much do you know about alien invaders?) and lots of giveaways.
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1/19
Charlene at Quintessentially Attention parents of reluctant readers — this book is one you’ll want to put in your kid’s hands. It has all the draw of a comic book except the pictures. No fear there, though, Jon Lewis’ writing is vivid enough that pictures seem to spring off the page in full living color.
Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful
1/20
Amy at A Nest in the Rocks For a teen who is looking for a wild ride through a fantasy world, Alienation delivers.
1/21
Dana at Because I Said So I loved this book and can't wait for the third one to come out so that I can read it!
Mindy at A Single Country Gal If you are one that likes to get lost in a science fiction, action packed, edge of your seat mixed with all the techie stuff then I recommend that you pick up a copy of Alienation along with the rest of the C.H.O.A.S series.
Janelle at Cole Clan Adventures (interview with her son who read it) Q: Why would you recommend this book to someone else? A: I think they would like it if they like action or suspenseful books. There was a lot of shooting, and I think most boys would enjoy reading about that. Especially kids interested in serving in the military.
1/23
Fran at Books and Beyond Jon Lewis's book is filled with a descriptive & imaginative story-line & characters. The story flows well on it's own (in case you missed book 1 in the series you would never know it, but do read it if you're a fan) & barely misses a beat from chapter to chapter.
Cassie at Shadow Kisses Book Reviews Alienation brought a fun, dangerous, and creative sci-fi world to life right before my eyes.
Lori at Morning Glories and Moonflowers Hold on tight and prepare for a wild ride! Take one young man chosen to save the world, a top secret experiment, Mission Impossible-like gadgets, aliens and breathtaking action and you get Alienation!
1/24
Theresa at Just One More Paragraph Alienation is the second book in the C.H.A.O.S. series and like the first book, Invasion, it was a thrilling read.
Kianna's Korner The author's style of writing is intriguing and extremely descriptive.
1/25
Charity at Keep On Booking This fast-paced science-fiction novel is enough to keep any reader on the edge of their seat - whether you are a young adult, whom the novel is originally meant for, or an adult like myself. I did not want to put this book down!
Vic's Media Room Mr. Lewis provides enough adrenaline spiked action to keep everyone on the edge of their seats and the theme of faith and God in action is more than worth the price of admission.
Leticia at My Daily Trek It's a world of high-tech gear, shape-shifting aliens, simulated reality and hoverboards. It has a Star Trek kind of quality that I enjoyed immensely.
Crystal at Just Another Book Lovin' Girl The action and suspense that's found on almost every page kept me at the edge of my seat, not wanting to put this book down.
1/26
Theresa at Faith and Family Reviews Can I just say that this book was AMAZING?????? This book is SO awesome! I can’t get over how much I enjoyed this book.
Wendy at Minding Spot Alienation is a fast-paced young adult read with high impact action and great characters.
Kaylea at My Scrappy Life I thought this book was well written and filled with intrigue and suspense. You can tell how writing for D.C. Comics has played a role in the development of Jon Lewis' writing style, because his words seem to come alive due to his vivid descriptions and wording.
Prism at A Girl of Many Colors I love the fast-paced storyline. This book carries smoothly from the last book, and the characters are as original as ever.
1/27
Ronie at Rapid Fire Fiction I found it to be a fun read. Adventurous. I am sure my 12.5 year old twin boys will love it.
Krystal at Live To Read The book starts and ends with action, the reader can look forward to a fast-paced book that will leave him/her at the edge of his/her seat.
1/28
Lisa at A Casual Reader's Blog This is a book that throws you into the action very quickly.
Kim at Deep Imprints Alienation will provide your teen or preteen with a fun reading experience, while showing him or her how faith meshes with real life. Surprisingly, this book reads well as a first (this isn’t a series where you are lost if you don’t start at the beginning), and I expect that we will see many more books in this series.
1/30
Jill at Artistic Blogger Alienation is a fast-paced, "out there" thriller for boys--a much-needed book niche.
Joan at Book Reviews from an Avid Reader This is great sci-fi for teens. There are monsters, jet packs, futuristic weapons, and lots of action. It makes me remember all over again why I loved sci-fi as a teen.
Angela @ SciFi Chick With plenty of danger, intrigue, and suspense – young science fiction fans should enjoy this fast-paced adventure.
1/31
Faye at Labor Not In Vain Bursting with action and fast-paced, page-turning drama, Alienation is one cool book! Even though I hadn't read the prequel Invasion (which is now on my TBR pile), I found myself swept into the world of Colt, Oz, Danielle and C.H.A.O.S.--not to mention...Aliens!
Michelle at Beyond The Silver and The Gold Jon Lewis wrote a great story in Alienation. I was kept on my toes all throughout the book as if I was right there with Colt.
2/1
Marg at Simply Shop and Save I really enjoyed the mix of Science Fiction and Christianity, and look for to the next book in 11-12 months.
Becky at Christian Chick's Thoughts Seriously, this book combines three of my loves—Bible stories, Young Adult fiction, and sci-fi—how could I help but love it, too? I absolutely loved Alienation, and I give it 5 enthusiastic stars! I can't wait to read the next chapter of Colt's story. I'll also be recommending this series to my students—I'm always trying to convince them that reading is fun!
2/2
Regina's at Family Seasons It was fun to read and the action kept you close to the edge of your seat!
2/3
Andrew's at Blog It is filled with wonderful science fiction action and the aliens are made out of a great imagination from the writer. The way he described the aliens provide me with an image of what they were created to appear like. The novel could very well be easily made into a bestselling movie series. I read the novel in about two days and I couldn’t put it down.
Michelle at Healing Hearts book review blog Well, this was an interesting story with a creative plot. I have to admit it pulled me in. I felt like I was reading a cross between Spy Kids and The X Men, but with a unique twist that added a slight faith element as well. I thought it was fun, too, because I knew the places the author referred to in Arizona. That made the book more special to me.
Kari at From the TBR Pile Alienation is filled with intrigue and action.
2/4
Pamela at I Read. Do You? This novel was a nice surprise to me! I had not read the first book in the CHAOS series, Invasion, but I was immersed into this second book fairly quickly. The science fiction aliens were reminiscent of the Men in Black movies and the allegorical story paralleled the Biblical David and Goliath showdown. As a writer for DC Comics, author Jon S. Lewis has an astonishing imagination that gives readers amazing details in this thrilling science fiction novel. This book is a great page-turner for teens who like science fiction, thrills and adventure.
Nancy at Amusing Reviews The book is well paced, a quick read and provides the reader with a dose of higher power and God.
Laurel at Let's Go on a Picnic! I appreciated the fact that Colt’s character is so vulnerable. He’s not perfect; he’s been left an orphan and he’s not the best at shooting aliens. Because of this, he’s filled with real fears and doubts about his destiny. It explains why some of his actions may not be the wisest choices. But that makes him normal–as normal as a boy fighting aliens can be. I believe that many teens who read this may see some of themselves in the characters of Colt and his friends. I recommend that they give Alienation a try; they will be as eager for the next book to come out as I am!
2/6
Preslaysa at The Literary Mama The writing is tight, compelling and kept me turning pages well into the evening! I highly recommend it!
Crystal at My Reading Room I really enjoyed Alienation. It's fast-paced, easy-to-get-into and has interesting characters. I liked the setup and liked the fact that event though this is the second book in the series I was able to jump right in and get into the story. I will go back and read the first book in the series now, but I never felt lost not having read it.
Christen Krumm Lewis has created a world filled with high tech gear, shape-shifting aliens, hoverboards, and fast paced action. While this is the second in Lewis’ CHAOS series, you will not be disappointed! Based on the story of David, this story is sure to capture any teen’s interest!
2/7
Donna at Books and Such I like the characters and think they will appeal to the YA audience.
Martha at Our Family's Adventures This YA Science fiction novel is exciting and will have your teen reading!
Jan 13, 2012
We're thrilled to be touring Mike and Tricia's latest offering, Chasing Mona Lisa. This story picks up right where The Swiss Courier left off and the reader is thrown into Gabi Mueller's next harrowing adventure - track down on irreplaceable work of art, the Mona Lisa. Reader's agree - it's a winner!

"A riveting, well-researched tale that kept me glued to the pages. Absolutely my favorite kind of story: rich in period detail, fast-paced, and loaded with twists. A winner!" --Christopher Reich, New York Times bestselling author of Rules of Vengeance and Rules of Betrayal
"A ticket to a world of mystery, heroism, and adventure. You'll find yourself sinking into a story that leaves you longing for just one more page." --Cara Putman, award-winning author of Stars in the Night and Ohio Brides
"Intriguing and well-written . . . Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey had me at hello!" --Lynn Vincent, New York Times bestselling writer of Heaven Is for Real and Same Kind of Different as Me
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It is August 1944 and Paris is on the cusp of liberation. As the soldiers of the Third Reich flee the Allied advance, they ravage the country, stealing countless pieces of art. Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring will stop at nothing to claim the most valuable one of all, the Mona Lisa, as a post-war bargaining chip to get him to South America. Can Swiss OSS agents Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler rescue DaVinci's masterpiece before it falls into German hands? |
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Tricia Goyer is the coauthor of The Swiss Courier as well as the author of many other books, including Night Song and Dawn of a Thousand Nights, both past winners of the ACFW's Book of the Year Award for Long Historical Romance. Goyer lives with her family in Arkansas. www.triciagoyer.com Mike Yorkey is the author or coauthor of dozens of books, including The Swiss Courier and the bestselling Every Man's Battle series. Married to a Swiss native, Yorkey lived in Switzerland for 18 months. He and his family currently reside in California. www.mikeyorkey.com |
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Chasing Mona Lisa is the continuing tale of Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler (first introduced in The Swiss Courier). This time the duo are on a relentless quest to save the most famous painting in the world - the Mona Lisa. You can help Gabi and Eric with your very own spy pack when you enter The Chasing Mona Lisa Giveaway!

One passionate protector will receive:
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on January 31st. Winner will be announced at Chasing Mona Lisa Facebook Party on 1/31. Tricia and Mike will be hosting an author chat (on Facebook and Live from Tricia's website) and giving away copies of their books and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club AND a LIVE Author Chat for your group with Tricia and Mike.)
So grab your copy of Chasing Mona Lisa and join Tricia and Mike on the evening of the 31st for an author chat, spy training (How much do you know about WWII?) and lots of giveaways.
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1/16
Mocha with Linda The book did give me a deeper appreciation for the treasured work of the masters. I know that whenever I see the enigmatic smile of the famous Mona Lisa, I will wonder just what she saw during the tumultuous days of war!
Melissa at The High Altitude Tea Duchess This book was exciting from page one. It is well written and I was genuinely interested in the story and the characters. This book has great imagery, the dialogue is well paced and it is interesting.
1/17
Kari at From the TBR Pile This is well written and well thought out plot with many twists and turns. I never really quite knew who to trust. Give it a shot!
Amy at A Nest in the Rocks Chasing Mona Lisa begins with a bang, promising lots of action, and it doesn't disappoint.
Billy at Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer There is a hint of romance, but the book is mostly a high energy, action-packed read. Overall, I enjoyed Chasing Mona Lisa and I recommend it to all readers.
Beckie at By The Book If you like a book that takes you on a chase through several countries with twists and turns along the way or if you like fiction with a good mix of historic figures and believable fictional characters, Chasing Mona Lisa is for you.
1/18
Alayna at Joyful Beginnings Begin With Joy in the Morn' When I read “Chasing Mona Lisa”, I was very excited to read it cover to cover in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down, as it did not disappoint me, and delivered exactly what I had hoped for; just like a painting, mystery, secrecy, and that other world! It was very fast-paced, and kept me on the edge, throughout! I was not disappointed in the ending, and found it just as exciting as the beginning!
Renee at Black 'n Gold Girl's Book Spot From the very first page I can almost guarantee that you will be hooked and have an interest in what happens to Gabi and Eric as well as some of the new faces. I'm not sure I've ever read a story that was as exciting and breathtaking as the opening scenes of this tale or a book with characters and a storyline that kept me guessing so much.
Margaret at Creative Madness Mama If you’re looking for a Christian Historical Fiction built upon the descend of World War II with German Nazi’s, Swiss and American Agents, Communist agendas and the parts of history with more detail that you ever learned in class… then indeed you may in fact enjoy this novel. It has an undertone of romance and an overtone of intrigue. Where do your loyalties lie?
Ruth at This That and the Other Thing The story grabbed me early into the book and kept me turning pages until it was over.
1/19
Trish at In So Many Words I always enjoy reading Tricia’s books (and not just because we share a first name!), but I think the co-writing effort with Mike Yorkey added another dimension to the story, and it was great.
Lena at A Christian Writer's World Authors Interview and Book Giveaway.
Christine at The IE Mommy I felt like I knew a lot about that period of time but the authors introduced elements of history I have never thought that much about and I was able to be entertained and learn something at the same time while reading this book.
1/20
Mindy -- a room without books is empty I really like Historical fiction and one of my favorite time periods to read about is World War II. I had read before of how the Nazi's would take valuables and spirit them away. This book takes that and gives you a exciting thrilling ride to save one of the most recognized pieces of art of all time. Even though this is fiction you feel like it was real and that it really happened. Excellent book.
Kim at Window To My World Chasing Mona Lisa i s a very well-written, suspense-filled novel that will entertain all readers! And the bonus content…the accuracy with which they capture life in the European theatre will lead the reader to look further into the rich history surrounding that time period. This is an excellent book, and one I am happy to recommend!
Diane at That's What I'm Here For The book was well written and gave me A LOT of history to digest from this period in time. Very well researched and specific with events, the general unrest, fears, and moods of the people involved at this time. War is horrible and affects every aspect of life .
1/21
Danielle at The Happy Wife I was riveted from the beginning.
Vic's at Media Room Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey have done an excellent job of research in preparing for this book and the story speeds along like an express train. Danger, thrills, espionage and romance “Chasing Mona Lisa” has it all. ”Chasing Mona Lisa” does not disappoint in any area.
Splashes Of Joy In this fast pace chase trying to protect this piece of famous art, the authors have created characters that are powerful and brave, and willing to do whatever it order to make sure no one gets their hands on this the [Mona Lisa].
Nicole at Bless their hearts mom I personally enjoyed the story and it was a easy read, if you have the time I am sure you will enjoy this story.
Elizabeth at Count It All Joy From the very beginning of the book we are kept on the edge of our seat during this adrenaline pumping story.
Kaylea at My Scrappy Life Overall, this novel is intense - but not terrifying. It's a great read that will keep you guessing what happens. It's would truly make a great movie because of the intrigue and suspense.
1/23
Lindsay at Live To Read This book is fast-paced and exciting, the events will take the reader by surprise and make the book very hard to put down.
Deb's Here I think it is a great read for anyone~old and young alike.
Annette at A Well-Watered Garden I liked that the characters are put to the limit in what they are capable of doing when in a life or death situation. Then, they later ponder if they can be that brave or courageous again.
Christy's Book Blog The authors include lots of fascinating history that will keep readers enthralled.
Kristen at Read Great Fiction I enjoyed reading this book.
Kate at Fuzzy Black Slippers & a Pink Hoodie Chasing Mona Lisa appears to be a well-researched novel, and the surprising plot twists just keep coming. The emotions were intense as the characters alternately ran for their lives, waited restlessly for information, or carefully plotted their next move.
1/24
Lisa at A Casual Reader's Blog This was a very fun book. People who love action, history, and art will find a lot of things to enjoy in this book.
Lydia at The Overweight Bookshelf In Chasing Mona Lisa readers are treated to an action packed historical adventure. Told from the perspective of multiple characters from varying political and ethnic backgrounds, the fictional accounts of historical events are rich and varied.
Lauri at Knits Reads and Reviews This is a very well written book.
Pamela at Daysong Reflections Another winner by the team of Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey, “Chasing Mona Lisa” is on my recommended book list for fans of World War 2 novels.
Kendra at Happily Managing a Household of Boys Chasing Mona Lisa is a book that I think many will enjoy and I am very glad that I had the oppurtunity to read it.
Shari at The Knit Wit I found it a really intriguing story, with a lot of twists and turns along the way!
Keenly Kristin I love Chasing Mona Lisa. It is exciting, intense, suspenseful, and full of drama.
1/25
JHS @ Colloquiem Chasing Mona Lisa is a well-researched thriller loaded with narrow escapes, shocking plot developments, poignant moments in which the characters' humanity makes them hauntingly sympathetic, all set against the backdrop of a proud country torn apart by war.
Joan at Book Reviews from an Avid Reader This is a pleasing novel to read of World War II Paris and the care of its art.
Laura at Day by Day in Our World I loved the descriptions of France and Switzerland as well as the interactions of the different characters.
Jendi's Journal Another good read from Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey! The story line is interesting and fresh with some great twists and turns along the way.
Stephanie at A Cooking Bookworm
Linda's Lunacy Chasing Mona Lisa is a very fast past, intriguing story.
1/26
Cara at the Law, Books & Life This is a great book for lovers of World War II or readers who love a historical novel set against the backdrop of real events
Tammy Is Blessed I loved the premise and enjoyed the characters,
Holly at Shelf Life A fascinating read from start to finish.
Becky at Christian Chick's Thoughts Chasing Mona Lisa is an intriguing tale of danger, theft, and a race against time.
Donna at Books and Such This is a fast-paced, sometimes violent thriller. It hooked me from the start and I didn't want to put it down.
1/27
Melanie at So Many books.. So Little Time Chasing Mona Lisa delivers a suspenseful, detailed historical story you wont be able to set down! As is standard Tricia Goyer fashion, the richness of the history of the time draws the reader back to a distant time and invites the reader to dwell there.
Renee at Doorkeeper Chasing Mona Lisa is an action-packed historical thrill-ride with a romantic thread.
Jen at Happy Little Homemaker Goyer and Yorkey did a fabulous job with Chasing Mona Lisa. This book did not disappoint — go check it out today!
Jacque at Good Family Reads Tricia and Mike have managed to come together and swipe a page from history and make it current, believable and an unforgettable race against time.
Susan at New Every Morning This book is an action-packed thrill ride across France! I loved every minute of it.
1/28
Amber at Seasons of Humility Chasing Mona Lisa is an intriguing fictional race through a part of WWII history. The various perspectives ("good" guys and "bad" guys) add to the suspense and mystery, and the details and language keep the story interesting for historical-fiction lovers. Goyer and Yorkey really know how to tag-team it!
Lauren 5 Minutes for Books As usual, Tricia and Mike masterfully blend intriguing historic details with a thrilling plot and interesting characters.
Michelle Healing Hearts book review blog I'm loving it.
Karyn Teach Beside Me I loved this book. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres to read. I love learning something, but also having a fun story line to keep me going. This story was action packed! I read it really fast- a sign of a good book for me!
Athena at Our Crazy Life Filled with everything a good book needs - romance, mystery, deception and a kidnapping for good measure - Chasing Mona Lisa will keep you up all night reading. You won't be able to put it down!
1/30
Michelle Life in Review I very highly recommend this book! It’s well researched and rich with historical detail. The fast-paced story hooked me from the very start and kept me on the edge of my seat. There are lots of great twists, turns, and surprises that keep you guessing and wondering what will happen next. It’s a riveting page-turner!
Britni Book Nook Club This book wasn't quite what I was expecting, but I still throughly enjoyed it.
Jennifer A Heart Full of Love It is full of adventure, adrenaline, and nail-biting moments.
Amber Living at the Whitehead's Zoo I enjoyed being taken back to a little piece of history while enjoying a great story and would not hesitate to pick up another book from these authors.
Anna The Cross Is All Set in occupied France during World War 2, Chasing Mona Lisa is replete with intrigue, adventure, action and excitement. Bombs explode, tension thickens, the pace quickens as events quickly unfold, tumbling one upon another, and the reader is drawn into the plot longing to know what happens next…and why.
Patty at Broken Teepee I did enjoy the overall story. It moved along quite nicely and the characters were well rounded.
Reviews by Molly I definitely recommend this novel. Rich in complexity and amazing historical detail, this novel is worthy of so much more than just 5 Books! Eric and Gabi aren’t ones to be missed on their missions, that’s for sure! The ending of this story is a whopper of unexpectedness and I can’t wait to see if these two incredibly amazing authors collaborate once again to bring their fans another amazing Swiss spy novel! INCREDIBLETASTIC work, Ms. Goyer and Mr. Yorkey!
Judy at Lost and Found Chasing Mona Lisa is a novel that keeps the reader intrigued and interested all the way to the finish line, and wanting more.
Angela at All Grown up? With twists, turns, intrigue, a touch of romance… Chasing Mona Lisa has it all!
1/31
Jennifer at Life Happens Author Interview
Bina at Books, Etc...by Bina I loved the character development, the setting details (particularly because I was raised in Europe and just visited Paris this past summer) and the action that just never seemed to quit.
Jan 5, 2012
Booklist says: "Quiet yet powerful, like a blizzard in Deep Haven, Minnesota, Warren’s latest inspirational novel is a story of hidden pain. …Like the spring thaw, Warren’s novel is cold and hard at the outset, but as the story unfolds, characters with frozen hearts begin to revive. At the end, hope is in full bloom."
Romantic Times says: "4 Stars! The amnesia storyline could have been clichéd, but Warren handles it with such grace that the reader is drawn into the tale. This is a beautifully written book."
Susan is celebrating the book's release with a fantastic $200 Visa Cash Card giveaway! Details below.

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A beautiful blanket of snow may cover the quaint town of Deep Haven each winter, but it can’t quite hide the wreckage of Noelle and Eli Hueston’s marriage. After twenty-five years, they’re contemplating divorce . . . just as soon as their youngest son graduates from high school. But then an accident erases part of Noelle's memory. Though her other injuries are minor, she doesn’t remember Eli, their children, or the tragedy that has ripped their family apart. What’s more, Noelle is shocked that her life has turned out nothing like she dreamed it would. As she tries to regain her memory and slowly steps into her role as a wife and mother, Eli helps her readjust to daily life with sometimes-hilarious, sometimes-heartwarming results. But can she fall in love again with a man she can’t remember? Will their secrets destroy them . . . or has erasing the past given them a chance for a future? Read the story behind the story here. |
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Susan May Warren is the RITA award-winning author of thirty novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press. A four-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award. A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!. She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice. You can find her online at: www.susanmaywarren.com. |
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Sometimes love requires a little forgetting ... Come back to Deep Haven and find out what's been happening in your favorite quaint hamlet. If you're new to the Deep Haven series - this is the perfect book to start with - each book in the series is a stand alone story.

One grand prize winner will receive:
The winner will be announced on 1/30/12 on Susan’s blog, Scribbles! Just click one of the icons below to enter and tell your friends about Susan's giveaway on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
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1/9
Julie Arduini: The Surrendered Scribe As always, Susan May Warren creates layered characters that trigger your own emotions.
Wendy at Wall-to-wall books As always, Susan May Warren puts out a great suspenseful novel! I really liked this storyline a lot. I was hooked right away. Very sweet but "on-the-edge" story with a strong Christian message.
Brenda at WV Stitcher A contemporary story with a small town setting that weaves together several spiritual messages together with a compelling family story of tragedy and loss that stayed with me long after the final page.
Renee at Black 'n Gold Girl's Book Spot I've come to realize that nobody tells a story quite like Susan May Warren. This Deep Haven novel along with a few of her historicals that I have read have proven that tugging at the heartstrings is what Ms. Warren does best. She writes characters that are complex, relatable and most importantly--flawed and far from perfect.
Janelle at Cole clan Adventures I started this book on a lazy day here (those are few and far between) and I finished it the next day. This was a delightful and inspiring story.
1/10
Kalyn at The Feminine Intellect This is not a syrupy romance, with predictable plot lines and story book endings. No, this is a refreshing story about a family who doesn’t have it all together, yet they work through the pain in spite of how easy it would be to walk away.
Stacey at WORD up! Susan May Warren crafts a suspenseful plot peppered with romantic storylines and godly wisdom for dealing with tragic circumstances. This is a must read work of fiction.
1/11
Laurie's School Days An uplifting read.
Michele at My Blessings From Above Wow! What a fantastic book! I was hooked after reading the first page!
Shari at The Knit Wit by Shair I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I got through the 385 pages in less than 24 hours! I couldn't put it down! Now that Christmas is over and we are all ready to hibernate, I suggest picking up this book, and snuggling in for a great read!
Elizabeth at Count It All Joy This truly was a book I had trouble putting down. The dialogue between characters makes you fall in love and care about all of them, both with the primary story and the secondary stories.
1/12
Casey at Writing for Christ Several times during the book, I held my breath, hoping, hoping that the characters would make the right decisions. Those are the kind of stories that engage the emotions and bring the reader into the story.
Kaylea at My Scrappy Warren portrays one key message when it comes to marriage - it must be built upon the love of Jesus.
Net's Book Notes Another great read from Susan, and definitely outside the mold, not that this author has one.
Michelle at Our Little Corner of the World I liked this book very much.
Roxanna at The Jolly Blogger My bestie is a huge fan of SMW and now, I can totally see why! Consider me hooked!
Lisa Jordan You must buy your copy of The Shadow of Your Smile today. You won't be disappointed
1/13
Charity at Hosanna's Journey Warren successfully weaved a brilliant story that took a look at all the what-if’s of loosing a child, a spouse, forgetting one’s life, and true love. This is definitely one of my favorite books.
Scott LaVigne's Blog I highly recommend this book!
Whitney at Rambles of a SAHM I do believe I have already found a book for my 2012 top ten list and it is only two weeks into the New Year.
1/14
Lydia at The Overweight Bookshelf At the end of the book my heart cried out "No! Give me more!" All of Susie books end too soon-not because they don't have great conclusions, but because I am bereft when the characters leave me.
Dineen at Kittens Come From Eggs I love Susan May Warren's Deep Haven books, and this one is so moving. I'm a sucker for a story about a married couple and this one has a really cool twist.
Trish at 5 Minutes for Mom All in all, an enjoyable and thoughtful read.
1/16
Jodie at Mom's Pace There are so many other wonderful characters in this story.
Pam at Daysong Reflections “The Shadow of Your Smile” is a beautifully written story that delves deep into the hearts of those affected by the tragic deaths of loved ones.
Linda's Lunacy The Shadow of Your Smile is the 6th book in the Deep Haven Series. If your like me, and haven’t read any of the Deep Haven Series, that ok. It’s not necessary to read the first books to enjoy The Shadow of Your Smile. Of course, now I want to read them!
Cara at the Law, Books & Life This is a great addition to the Deep Haven series, but stands completely on its own... though it did make me want to track down more novels in the series.
1/17
Tammy Is Blessed For some reason I've always loved storylines that include amnesia as a result of an injury - but this was the best of the ones I've read by far! Warren is simply a great writer. This book tackles some pretty heavy topics and serious issues, but approaches them in just the right way. Fantastic book - I highly recommend it, along with any of her other work!
Becky at Christian Chick's Thoughts I absolutely loved the way the book ended. I don't want to spoil it for you (because you really should read it for yourself), so I'll just say that Warren didn't take the story where I expected, and for that, I'm grateful. Her ending is much more powerful than mine would have been!
Angela at All Grown Up? The Shadow of Your Smile did something no book has done in a few years, it touched my heart to the point I was crying along with the characters. So many times, a phrase would jump out and attach itself to my heart, ingrain itself in my brain and I would feel a nudge saying “this is for you, she wrote this for you, right here, right now in the place you are now.” There can be no higher praise than that.
Donna at Books and Such I found the story and its characters very compelling and recommend it to readers who love a thought-provoking story. Reading groups will find a great deal to discuss within these pages.
1/18
Kat at Reviews From The Heart The Shadow of Your Smile by Susan May Warren is the beautifully written story that shows how loss affects everyone not just the person who died but everyone who was connected to them. It shows how people deal with things internally instead of turning to God who can help them heal through the grieving process when they are ready. He shows that they are never alone and He can mend all things and restore broken hearts again in time, we simply have to be willing to turn to Him for help. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars!
Betsy Ann - Writer at Large Another beautifully written novel by SUSAN MAY WARREN! Fans of Susie won't want to miss this sweet read.
Jacque at Good Family Reads This book has raw emotion throughout the entire book.
Susan at New Every Morning Susan May Warren has done it again! She has written yet another book that tears at your heart while providing hope in God's ultimate grace.
Amber at Seasons of Humility The Shadow of Your Smile has cold hands but a warm heart, as the saying goes. The characters and situations are sometimes very frustrating to read about, and while Warren's writing is lovely, some of the twists and turns are not always so. But buried underneath the snow is life that is waiting to be found again.
1/19
Laurel at Let's Go on a Picnic! First of all, I must say that the setup of the first few pages is breathtaking. The opening scene foreshadows what is to come in Noelle’s life. Her desire for a new life is evident, as well as the dissatisfaction she has in her current life. Susan’s transition of Noelle from troubled to discombobulated is flawless. The storyline of the book is very exciting. Not only does Noelle have face her forgotten memories, there is additional intrigue as well. Without giving away the plot, I would like to say that I like the direction that the book takes. It is a refreshing change from many of the contemporary novels on the market.
Margaret at The World As I See It I read [The Shadow of Your Smile] in 3 days and was sad when it was over. I don’t think are words to describe how I feel about this book. The characters were so easy for me to relate to and her writing captured me in from the very beginning.
Jennifer at A Heart Full of Love I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a beautiful story that drew me in right from the beginning. I truly came to care about the characters and wanted everything set right in the end.
Ariel at The Librarian's Bookshelf The drama and romance in this story pick you up and pull you right in. The setting is also perfect, with the icy winter weather adding to the cold situations in the story. Loved this book!
1/20
Sarah at Growing For Christ This is a wonderful book.
Amy at Bow of Bronze I loved the depth of pain and joy in this book and was captivated by the characters and plot immediately.
Barbara's Thin Line Between Truth & Fiction The Shadow of your Smile isn’t just a story about starting over or second chances, but about trust, about faith, about letting go of the death grip we have on the door to our hearts, and allowing the person that God has given us to share our lives with access to our dreams, our struggles, our pain. Because we aren’t meant to walk this road alone.
Debra at Footprints in the Butter I don't even know where to begin. Except to tell you that Susan May Warren has done it again... The Shadow of Your Smile is simply wonderful, and this is a book I most definitely recommend.
Jill at Book, Books Everywhere I was drawn in by this couple and their struggle. I wanted them to be honest with each other and to find their way.
Heidi at Starts At Eight Susan May Warren weaves together a story so relatable, a story so real, with characters that are as flawed as we are that you can’t help but be pulled in! Don’t leave your Kleenex box too far out of reach for this one! Being a wife, a mother, and one whose life is so deeply entwined with that of my husband and children, this book pulled every heart string I have.
Kendra at Happily Managing a Household of Boys The Shadow of Your Smile is another "Winner" for me! Susan draws the reader in with the tragedies and emotions of the book. I started reading this book and just couldn't put it down, I felt like my heart and mind had jumped right into the book and the events were almost real life happenings!
1/21
Vida at Sunflower Faith The Shadow of Your Smile is a touching love story that readers, like myself, will have a hard time putting down.
Tanya at In the Dailies This book reminded me that I’m not the only one whose life isn’t what was once dreamed. Fortunately, I don’t have amnesia, and I can recall all the little (and sometimes big) choices made here and there along the way, all of which led me to now. It didn’t just happen overnight. The good news: God is Lord over all.
Kimberly at Living on limited income Susan May Warren has written another gripping and refreshing novel. The characters in the book are so personable and relatable that you feel like you are friends with them. All of them. The emotionally charged scenes in the novel are so well written that you can’t help but feel what the characters feel. I found myself on quite an emotional journey! Just when you think you’ve discovered the direction of the plot, Susan adds another complex layer that you never saw coming.
Lena at A Christian Writer's World Author interview and Book Giveaway!
Lori at Morning Glories and Moonflowers " The Shadow of Your Smile" , by Susan May Warren, grips you from the very beginning and has a hold on you until the last page.
Molly at Reviews By Molly The Shadow Of Your Smile is a story that combines tragedy, drama, humor, love, romance, friendship, trust and secrets and turns it into a whopper of a fantastical read. I was hooked from the start and this book kept me in awe the whole time.
Katy at A Few More Pages I really liked that the characters in this book were complicated and their relationships messy.
1/23
Karen's Korner This book is one of those that you need to sit on and think on awhile. This is an author who can spin quite a masterpiece. That is exactly what this book is, a masterful work of art. I was hooked from the beginning and would have done anything to read this wonderful story.
JHS at Colloquium The real key to the success of The Shadow of Your Smile is Warren's character's flawed humanity.
1/24
Jamie at Little Blurbs This book had me hooked from the first page; right from the beginning there is an air of mystery and suspense.
Lisa at A Casual Reader's Blog This book was a great chance to reflect on many different aspects of life. It was a very interesting story and provided a lot of inspiration. I found myself wanting the best for all the characters. They are all likable, with a perfect mix of goodness and flaws. I think people looking for a great book that makes them think as well, this book will fit the bill.
Beth at For the love of books Through out the book Susan May Warren writes so you feel like you are part of the story. I felt the joy and the pain the characters went through. I felt such a kinship with Eli and Noelle and their struggles with their own identies and their marriage.
1/25
Brooke at I blog 4 books Susan May Warren does everything right with this book . . . the characters, the writing, the emotional punch. I wasn't ready for the book to end when it did.
Joan at Book Reviews from an Avid Reader I really enjoyed reading this book. It is very thought provoking. The plot has a great combination of attempts at restoring romance and relationship, and a little suspense.
Pattie at Fresh-Brewed Writer [The Shadow of Your Smile] is probably more true-to-life than any other Christian fiction novel you'll find out there on the shelves.
Staci at 7 on a Shoestring The Shadow of Your Smile is an excellent book and I recommend it as a great read this winter.
Carol at Books Before Food This book will grab you and keep you reading until the very end.
Naasom at The christian fiction's place in Brazil
1/26
Rachelle at Sojourner's Journey Susan May Warren writes a poignant tale of love, forgiveness, grace and faith emerging from the ashes of tragedy.
Maureen's Musings There is so much action in this book that I read this in one day!
Andi at Radiant Light This book wrapped itself around my heart and didn't let go. These characters became apart of me, and I hurt for them and with them.
Michelle at Life in Review The writing is superb with characters that became like family to me. I was completely hooked from the very beginning and when it was over I found myself wishing for more.
1/27
Jennifer at Book Reviews from a Book Lover Susan May Warren is a very gifted storyteller and draws the reader in with an intriguing plot filled with characters that will make you both laugh and cry. This book is filled with hope, rediscovery, love, faithfulness and trust. So many lessons can be learned by reading this book.
Ashley's at Bookshelf The cast of characters throughout the story are wonderful! I could actually feel Noelle's shock and frustration at how her life had turned out. Eli's hurt at his wife's condition. Their son's heartbreak that their mother doesn't remember them or the tragedy that shaped them all. The emotions run high through out the story and I think the author did a great job with the whole story!
Lauri at Knits Reads and Reviews Divorce, accident, secrets...drama, this book has it all, and once again Susan May Warren writes a fantastic story that draws you in and makes her characters feel as though they're a part of you. This is an excellent book that deals with real to life issues. It is full of heart, and will keep you turning the pages as quickly as you can!
Tiffany at A Cozy Reader's Corner Reviews I love how the author creates a story that is both intriguing and romantic while stepping outside the box and including a premise of normality. This story is not your typical romance. The characters don't have it all together, they are struggling just like everyone else, yet they prove that faith and perseverance are much needed qualities. This intimate and compelling story will stay with you long after you finish reading it. Warren's talent seems to know no bounds. It really was a pleasure to read!
Caroline at Happy Four This book reads like a true to life story and brings to life human emotions. I highly recommend this book!
1/28
Holly at The Bookshelf [The Shadow of Your Smile] made me love Susan May Warren even more! Her ability to tell a compelling story with memorable characters and scenes is evident in this book. I highly recommend The Shadow of Your Smile.
Laura at Day by Day in Our World Ms. Warren does a wonderful job painting the settings so the reader can ‘see’ them in their imagination. The characters have the air of real people with real challenges and pain that life can bring. And, she has done a stellar job of weaving in the Christian faith.
Jan 2, 2012
Welcome to our first tour of 2012.
We are thrilled to be kicking off the new year with a brand new series from beloved author Suzanne Woods Fisher! The Keeper is the first book in the Stoney Ridge Seasons series and releases (1/3/12) with grand approval from critics and fans alike. For the launch of this book and series Suzanne is hosting a "Honey of Giveaway"! She'll be giving away an iPad2 and connecting with readers at a fun Facebook party on the 17th!
4 Stars from Romantic Times: The Stoney Ridge Season starts off with characters who are trying to make the right choices, but sometimes with unexpected results. Fisher always brings freshness to her Amish novels. The Amish culture is interesting to read and learn about, but there is also a message: God has plans and those plans may vary greatly from the plans you have.
Christian Fiction Addiction: I can honestly say that "The Keeper" is my favorite contemporary Amish novel that I have read to date. The reason? The characters are simply fantastic! From the moment I picked up this book, I became caught up in their lives and found the book impossible to put down. The book breathes with laughter, heart-break, deep wisdom, hope. As the author gradually allowed me to peek under the characters' interesting exteriors, I discovered hearts that beat with all the dreams and insecurities we all wrestle with at times. God's love absolutely shines through this book, and I came to the last page sad to leave the world of the Windmill Farm. I highly anticipate returning to the farm in book two of the series!
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Julia Lapp has planned on marrying Paul Fisher since she was a girl. Now twenty-one, she looks forward to their wedding with giddy anticipation. When Paul tells her he wants to postpone the wedding--again--she knows who is to blame. Perpetual bachelor and spreader of cold feet, Roman Troyer, the Bee Man.Roamin' Roman travels through the Amish communities of Ohio and Pennsylvania with his hives full of bees, renting them out to farmers in need of pollinators. He relishes his nomadic life, which keeps him from thinking about all he has lost. He especially enjoys bringing his bees to Stoney Ridge each year. But with Julia on a mission to punish him for inspiring Paul's cold feet, the Lapp farm is looking decidedly less pleasant. Can Julia secure the future she's always dreamed of? Or does God have something else in mind? |
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Her interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, W.D. Benedict, who was raised Plain. Suzanne has a great admiration for the Plain people and believes they provide wonderful examples to the world. In both her fiction and non-fiction books, she has an underlying theme: You don't have to "go Amish" to incorporate many of their principles--simplicity, living with less, appreciating nature, forgiving others more readily-- into your life. When Suzanne isn't writing or bragging to her friends about her first new grandbaby (!), she is raising puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To Suzanne's way of thinking, you just can't take life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone's underwear in its mouth. Suzanne can be found on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com. |
During the giveaway one Grand Prize winner will receive a Prize Pack valued at $600:
But wait there's more! Just click one of the icons below to enter, then on 1/17 join Suzanne for The Keeper Facebook Party! During the party Suzanne will announce the winner of the "Honey" of an iPad Giveaway and host a fun book chat and give away some fun "honey" inspired prizes - It'll be 'sweet"!
RSVP early and tell your friends!
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Tell your friends on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Good luck and we hope to see you on the 17th at 5:00 PM PST (6:00 MST, 7:00 CST, 8:00 EST)!
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1/3
Charlene at Quintessentially Quilly Don’t let the fact that this book is labeled “Amish” fiction lead you to believe you’re about to enjoy a fluffy, light romance. Suzanne’s characters are real people with real world-problems. In her stories the Amish interact with their neighbors and one another in realistic scenarios and there are no clear cultural lines drawn to distinguish the Amish as all-good and the Englischers as all-bad. Reading a Suzanne Woods Fisher novel will give you reason to think and reason to rejoice. You’ll get a satisfying romance and a great drama as well.
Mocha with Linda Several plots entwined in this story and unexpected twists touched my heart. Suzanne's new Stoney Ridge Seasons is off to a wonderful start with this first book in the series. It is absolutely a . . . Keeper!
Wendy at wall-to-wall books Wow, I didn't see that ending coming! Any of, I didn't! Suzanne Woods Fisher, in my opinion, is the best Amish Fiction writer there is. She has such a way with her characters, it just draws you into the family, makes you feel like you belong, like you are a visiting friend.
Mary's Cup of Tea
Patricia at It's Time to Read Meemaw I highly recommend this book! I rate this book a 5 out of 5.
1/4
Crystal Created for Home It was a nice little love story and a lovely break from reality for me to read.
Abi at 4 the LOVE of BOOKS Susanne Woods Fisher has done it again. She's made a honey of story. This is one that will keep you buzzing the pages. You don't want to miss what is happening at Stoney Ridge. Julia Lapp is a spit-fire character.
Billy at Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer “The Keeper” is slightly different than the typical Amish fiction, adding witty characters and realism that any reader can connect with. Life is full of twists and turns that challenges your faith as the main character Julia findsout. There is heartache, laughter and wonderful storytelling to be found in “The Keeper”. I recommend the book to all readers.
Beckie at By The Book In The Keeper, you feel like you are among friends. And the story flows naturally; not to slow or too rushed, just right. I was most impressed with the insertion of the characters’ faith. Many of their statements concerning God’s ways and scripture felt like prayers. In fact, sometimes I would go back and repeat them to God. This is not to say that the book was preachy. If anything,The Keeper shows faith as a natural part of life.
1/5
Valentina at Carabosse's Library This was a lovely story full of romance and special relationships that is very different from a lot of the Amish novels that are being written now.
Renee at Black'n Gold Girl's Book Spot The Keeper is quite possibly going to go on my best books of 2012 list! The characters, the setting and most importantly the story are beautiful.
Lori at Morning Glories and Moonflowers Laugh, cry and fall in love with The Keeper . It will be a book that you want to share with friends- just be sure they return it to you.
1/6
Michelle at Destination Amish Suzanne writes about this topic with a real knowledge. I laughed; I cried and was thoroughly impressed by this book. This is a must read! The second book cannot come quick enough. Happy Reading!
Reviews By Molly With romance, humor, Amish charm and wisdom, Ms. Fisher has created the start of a wonderful story. This start to a fantastic new series is a 5 Book worthy novel and will be sitting pretty on my Amish fiction bookshelf for years to come. I can’t wait to read Sadie Lapp’s story in book 2, The Haven, set to release in August of 2012.
Diane at That's What I'm Here For [Suzanne Woods Fisher's] books are immersed in the Amish lifestyle but you do not feel overwhelmed by it. The characters are completely relate-able and entirely quirky in such a loving way that you are immediately drawn in to this family. I loved that the characters appeared to be one way in the beginning, but as you got to know them more and more, and their stories, your opinions of them changed. You were able to truly empathize and connect with each character involved.I have to give the author props on this book’s storyline. It went a way that I never thought it would take, and it was bold. I appreciated the sensitivity of the issues she included and she handled it beautifully and realistically. This book definitely shows that being Amish does not guarantee a trouble-free existence.
Kim at Window To My World I love the tenderness in the heart of the story itself, and how the faith of each character comes into play in an intimate, personal way. There are times when things seem pretty uncertain, and the solution isn't always what it seems. Folks who enjoy visiting the Amish in their fiction will be delighted by Woods' latest novel!
Danielle at The Happy Wife This is one of my favorite books in the Amish fiction genre. The reader is quickly and easily transported to a beautifully simple life in Pennsylvania. The plot draws you in quickly and keeps you engaged until the end. I had a very difficult time putting the book down and read it in 2 days.
Michele at My Blessings From Above This book hooked me on the first page! It really did! It just drew me in! The characters seem real and so believable. The writing is witty and fast-paced. I really enjoy Suzanne Woods Fisher’s writing style. Parts of this story had me laughing out loud! Her writing is very refreshing! If you are a fan of contemporary Amish fiction you will love this story!
1/7
Caroline at Happy Four The story beautifully unveils the heart of the characters as each chapter unfolds. Those you may not have immediately been drawn to appear softer after knowing the history of their pain. The story does brings devastating circumstances of loved ones lost, inclusive of one of Julia's immediate family members passing, but not without passing on a vital part of their physical being to save another. Life is lost, yet renewed in another. A love that appeared genuine is lost and true love found and life at Windmill Farm will never be the same!
Karla at Quiet Quilter Suzanne has done it again!! This book is no different from any of her others!! The first chapter grabs your attention and keeps you enthralled throughout the story by making each character unique and so well described , that you become part of them. Her character development is outstanding. You live their dreams, heartaches, fears and rejoice in their joys.
Bab's Book Bistro The Lapp family are one of a kind. They are funny, lovable and quirky at times. They the family gets along is wonderful. I started the book and did not want to put it down. The pages almost turned on their own as I could not get enough of the Lapp family. I like the way the story turned out. Fisher does a wonderful job with the characters, they way you feel their joys, sadness and dreams. I am looking forward to book 2 in the series.
Wendy at Minding Spot The Keeper is a wonderful read - filled with likable characters and a beautiful setting in Amish country. The troubles the characters go through and how they put their faith in God to help them through it is inspiring. The love triangles, the heartbreak of watching a parent suffer and wanting to help and the love and support of family is what makes this novel shine. I loved it!
Briana at I can't decide This was a wonderful story with many different aspects to it. You will encounter forgiveness, loss, romance, heart problems, special needs, and many other topics as you read. It sounds like a lot to take in but Suzanne does a great job of weaving all of the story lines together. Oh, there is also a little mystery thrown in which is solved by the end of the story.
Roxanna at The Jolly Blogger Suzanne talked about how the Amish were actually fun-loving people and I felt that in the tone and the descriptive language she used throughout the book. As is always the case with her books, I couldn’t put it down…and I know you won’t, either!
1/9
Deb's Here I love to read about the Amish This is the first book in the Stoney Ridge Seasons series and I can't wait to read the next one! As this is a excellent book. Once I started I couldn't put the book down. I loved the Lapp family`as they show you what true family values are all about. As each character has troubles and triumphs and I really liked each one. As Suzanne has a way with writing that makes you feel that you are there.I found myself laughing and crying many times.
Christen at Tribute Books Reviews & Giveaways Sometimes a book shatters stereotypes. The Keeper by Suzanne Woods Fisher does just that.
Linda's Lunacy I love to read books about the Amish lifestyle. The Keeper does not disappoint - a story of taking care of family, lost love, and found love.
1/10
Chrystal at Self Employed Writer I love the Amish books! I was so excited to read and review the newest book, The Keeper. I knew it would not disappoint, and I was right!
Kate at Fuzzy Black Slippers I really enjoyed The Keeper and I’m excited for the next book in the series. When you turn the last page of a book and find yourself disappointed it’s over, you know that book is a keeper!
Crystal at Cinnamon Hollow Suzanne Woods Fisher writes her characters in such a fun way. They aren’t what I would typically think of when imaging an Amish family.
Lauri at Knits Reads and Reviews Hats off to Suzanne for writing yet another great Amish story, I cannot wait to see what's in store in the next book of this series!
Jodie at Mom's Pace I couldn't put the book down. I had feelings ranging from laughter, to sadness, to admiration.
Pamela at Daysong Reflections Suzanne Woods Fisher has a special touch when it comes to writing about the Amish. She literally breathes life into her characters.
1/11
Jill at Frugal Plus The vast difference in the well-written characters makes for a romantic, emotional read. A Keeper!
Marg at Simply Shop and Save This book reminds me of the long ago Walton’s TV program. Good family entertainment is sadly lacking for the viewing audience. I would be so delighted if this story, “ The Keeper ,” would be picked up by the networks or made into a movie.
Vera at Luxury Reading The Keeper is a heart warming story and the love between the characters in the book is readily apparent on every page. Fisher’s new book will appeal greatly to fans of Amish fiction, and cozy fiction in general.
Linda Linda's Lunacy The Keeper does not disappoint.
Tina at Giving & Sharing The Keeper is fast moving, inspiring and filled with enough angst and emotion to keep you reading page after page and ending with probably the best ending I've read in a romance of any kind in a very long time.
Lena at A Christian Writer's World Author interview and book giveaway!
1/12
Kemi at Homemaking Organized Blog I was disappointed to see end. Write more Suzanne!
Sheila at Showcase Sisters "The Keeper" is wonderfully written, romantic, inspiring and heartwarming!
Tiffany at A Cozy Reader's Corner Reviews The story is engaging, humorous and heartwarming. I enjoyed her fast paced, witty writing style. Before I knew it, I'd finished the book. it's a great contemporary Amish romance for those who prefer clean, dramatic love stories or for those who want a break from their normal reading. It's a mini vacation for your taking, as you find yourself transplanted from the living room to an Amish farm.
Carrie at Farming On Faith Just when I think Suzanne can't outdo herself she amazes me once again!
Sara at Shoopette's Book Reviews Enjoyed.
1/13
Jennifer at For such a time as this I love Suzanne Woods Fisher! Her books just take me to a place where I can find adventure, love, and a simple way of life. There is not one of her books that I have read that I have not fallen in love with. She is a talented writer who knows how to draw her audience in.
Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood [The Keeper is] a heartwarming, funny contemporary romance with a fantastic cast of characters who just happen to be Amish. And, it's a delightful read that I hated to see come to an end.
Renee at Doorkeeper I loved the tender hearts and gentle ways of the folks who peopled her novel, The Keeper. And I also enjoyed the touch of mystery in the plot.
Kat at Reviews From The Heart I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and love the message found between the pages, that sometimes we can't always see things when we are too close, sometimes we simply need to take a couple steps back and see it from God's eyes.
jacque at Good Family Reads There are Amish books and then there are Suzanne Fisher Woods Amish tales. The book blurb will lead you to think this is a typical love romance style book, but it is so much more. It is also a book to get you to think beyond the book...not only about the characters (they are great, tho), but about life and life going on.
Mel at MamaBuzz [The Keeper is] a very touching story that is so real to life. I truly wish that Suzanne’s books could be made into movies. They are not your typical Amish stories. She makes the Amish lifestyle, which can sometimes seem so far removed from our own, very real and transparent. Her characters are so lively, animated, and full of true-to-life character.
Amber at Seasons of Humility Fisher's writing is a pleasure to read as she effortlessly combines the quirky with the authentic. Her stories are creative but not too far out there to also be familiar and comforting. Stoney Ridge is a great place to visit through Fisher's book. And The Keeper is a great addition to Fisher's Amish novels, with sweet sibling relationships and a honey of a romance!
1/14
Tammy is Blessed With a few different storylines mixed into the plot, this book was enjoyable from start to finish.
Simply Stacie This book is a beautifully written story of an Amish family who are going through a hard time with money, love and health issues.
Stephanie-jean at Life: SemiCrunchy The Keeper is full of very lovable characters (and some hard to love ones too) with layers of personality! I was left wanting more once I finished, but not in a negative way, I just really wanted to spend more time with all of the characters! Suzanne does a wonderful job keeping the story line interesting with plenty of twist and turns without making the story to convoluted or feeling rushed.
Patty at Broken Teepee Ms. Woods Fisher writes a lovely story about learning to accept what is given to you and perhaps stretch your thinking to expand beliefs you might have had from birth.
Lisa at Life Full of Laughter I really loved Suzanne’s style of writing. I loved that she took her time in telling me the story.
Kristie at Family Scrapbooks and Coffee The Keeper is full of laughs and surprises. It also pulls at heartstrings, as so many of the other books of Suzanne W. Fisher have done for me.
Anne at Mommy Has to Work I love reading Suzanne Woods Fisher books and can’t wait for the next chapter in this series.
1/16
Kaylea at My Scrappy Life Once again, Suzanne has created a story that is warm, inviting and fun to read.
Debra at Footprints in the Butter I had a hard time putting the book down.
April's at Lifestyle Show This is my second book I have read by Suzanne Woods Fisher and I am addicted. The characters are strong yet fragile.
Judy at Lost and Found You wouldn't think the term `action packed' would apply to a community still using original `horse' power. But not only is The Keeper is filled with action, it's also rife with conflict and rich in romance.
Book Junkie Mom at Rainy Day Reviews! I love how the author brought the characters to life, brought realism to the character not just words on a page.
Shari at The Knit Wit by Shair You know you have a good book in your hands, when you can't wait to get to the end to see how everything turns out, until you are getting close to the end, and the you change to not wanting it to end.
Melinda Joy: Living, Laughing, Loving I've read other books by Suzanne, and I really enjoy them. She knows a great amount about the Amish lifestyle, and it's refreshing to read about a simpler way of life.
JHS at Colloquium A lovely surprise.
1/17
Jennifer at Life Happens This book did make me cry a few times. But well worth it. I am so glad that Suzanne keeps writting! I can't wait for book 2 to come out!
Melissa at Bibliophile's Retreat In a genre that some might consider boring or flooded by the same stories redone, Suzanne always manages to bring something new to table.
Libby's Library By chapter 2, I felt like I was a part of the Lapp family!
Lesley at Dragonflies 'n Daydreams This was a wonderful story. I love the characters! Suzanne really brings them to life in an amusing way.
Staci at 7 on a Shoestring http://7onashoestring.com
Holly at Everything and Anything http://everythingandanythingblog.com
Dec 6, 2011
Welcome to the blog tour for this profound book - it's GORGEOUS in look and scope - and we're thrilled to introdue Shelley and Real. Proceeds from book sales go to support the work of several charities. It is a gift that gives a gift.
Real - The Book from David Malcolm on Vimeo.
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“REAL” is a collection of 60 inspirational stories by Shelley Malcolm, with photos by Terilee Dawn Ouimette. The stories are deeply revealing, while the photos are anonymous, focusing only on each subject’s hands. Subjects range from adolescent to elderly, from former gangster to humble homeless, international refugee to hero-housewife, from pro athlete to Hollywood celebrity. While “Real” is her first published book, Malcolm is no stranger to creative projects, as co-owner and restorer of an historic chapel, La Perla del Mar in Shell Beach, CA, and a set designer for theater and film. Shelley Malcolm was named Pismo Beach’s Citizen of the Year in 2011 for her extensive contributions and involvement in the community. Proceeds from the book will benefit the Alzheimer’s Foundation and other charities. Shelley Malcolm graduated from University of Southern California with a degree in dental hygiene. For more information, please visit http://marthamartha.net or http://shelleymalcolmblog.wordpress.com/ |
Shelley Malcolm resides in Shell Beach, California with her husband, Doug. Shelley has four adult children. Her interests include painting , drawing, sculpting, building, playing piano and other musical instruments, outdoor activities including hiking, ocean kayaking, running, water and snow-skiing, international travel, sewing, reading, writing and others.
Be sure to check out the "Real" notecards too!
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12/8
Mocha With Linda In a world obsessed with eternal youth and beauty, often turning to botox, eating disorders, and surgical intervention to attain the perfect body, how refreshing it is to see this book celebrating the beauty of hands that have truly lived and bear the scars and wrinkles to prove it.
12/9
Becky at In The Pages This book is such a great idea that it captured me - I poured over each picture and then read about each person's life that was represented by the picture of his/her hands. Terilee Dawn Ouimette's photos brought the stories to life. It is a book that keeps you turning pages and makes you think.....
Amy at A Nest in the Rocks This book would make fabulous gift or coffee table book. Full of both inspiration and art, it's a great afternoon read and yet it does not need to be read straight through. Each story stands alone and so the book can be read in any order.
Abi at 4 the LOVE of BOOKS Malcolm delivers a remarkable work of inspiration with 60 biographical stories, each illustrated by a captivating photo by professional photographer Terilee Dawn Ouimette. The stories are deeply revealing, while the photos are anonymous, focusing only on each subject’s hands.
12/10
Tasra at tasra mar | transform With candid stories of real people living in the textured reality of life everyday, your heart will be stirred. I found that to be true for me.
Theresa at Just One More Paragraph I keep this book on my coffee table, and find that every time I sit down near it, it demands to be picked up. The photos are stunning and paired with the prose, this book is nothing less than a true work of art. Along with each photo is a story that tells about the life of the person who owns those hands. The stories are heartfelt and beautifully written, and one instantly feels an attachment to the mysterious person.
Jennifer at 5 Minutes for Books They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. This book exemplifies that, with a half page picture accompanied by a two columns of text.
12/13
Judy at Lost and Found This is definitely the kind of book I would keep displayed in my home so visitors could see it. And one I would return to time and time again for myself. I highly recommend "Real" by Malcolm and Ouimette … one copy for your own library (or coffee table!) and a few extra for gifting. A great big thumbs up from this reviewer, for this hands-on approach to storytelling!
12/14
Nicole at Bless Their Hearts Mom I really had to stop after I read each page, and reflect on the hands and what they said, that the words didn't. This is a VERY moving book, and you will find yourself flipping back and forth looking at the pictures, and re-reading the info.
Danielle at The Happy Wife I enjoyed the small insight I was able to get into a variety of lives and the epilogue at the end, brings a semblance of closure to my involvement in their lives. The stories not only cover a variety of people and slices of their lives, but covers a broad area of life topics, such as hope, love, courage, and renewal. I found the stories to be inspiring and heartwarming and the photography is stunning. I will never look at, or even think of, hands in the same way again.
12/15
Fran at Books and Beyond We may not be able to see their faces and surprisingly that doesn't matter. I did not feel cheated in the least. Instead I felt a part of. I "knew" each person. I laughed with them, cried with them, roared in anger with them, felt joy with them, grieved with them. Everything they felt and experienced I was a part of. I was drawn in and even if their personally unique experience did not apply to me, it applied to someone I knew. Now or in the past. The photography is exquisite. I truly envy Ouimette's true talent with a camera.Shelley Malcom conveyed so much in few words. She did not need pages of flowery, dramatic, prose to draw us into the story and keep us trapped. One sentence was all it took. I WANTED to be in that story. It was not a struggle to continue to the next paragraph. She captured her subjects raw emotions and experiences with a quiet grace and dignity. I personally suggest we all order a copy of this book for everyone we love and have it handy at all times. I am actually eager to finish typing this up so I can go back and re read a few of the stories that spoke to me.
12/16
Kaylea at My Scrappy Life Wow.If pictures are worth 1,000 words, then Shelley Malcom and Terilee Dawn Ouimette have captured a priceless treasure in their collaboration known as Real.
Deb's Here This is such a great book,shows the true life of real people.Each story was touching and this is a book that you can set out for everyone to enjoy! It makes you think of life and how the hands really tell the story.I would recommend this book to all.
Krystal at Live To Read This book was actually hard to put down, something I had not expected.
Whitney at Rambles of a SAHM While reading these stories I could just picture Jesus there with them through the struggles and the good times. I feel like the book Real shows us the stories from God’s point of view. When He sees our hands He does not think, oh what a nice manicure or oh my deformed hands. When He sees these hands He sees the real story, the whole story and always a story worth redeeming.
Diane at That's What I'm Here For The author does a beautiful job of sharing snippets from people’s lives. Each one different and significant just as their hands are. Worn, from years of working, holding, going, and praying. The photographer captures each wrinkle, imperfection, and nuance that makes each set of hands extraordinary. Taking the time to examine each one, I could not help but be drawn in to that person’s story.
12/17
Brooke at I blog 4 books A stunning collection.
Julee at Mommy's Memorandum Real is a book that tugs my heart strings. It sits on my nightstand and I find myself opening it’s pages throughout the day. The photos are amazing and accessorized by prose that makes the beauty of this book impeccable. Real is a story about the life of the person who owns the hands. The stories are amazing and written elegantly. I feel like I know the hands and the person behind them.
12/19
Joan at Book Reviews from an Avid Reader There are hands of builders and bakers, of students and seniors. There are young hands, old hands, and scarred hands. The people in this book are not famous. They are inspirational, however. They are people who have overcome difficulties, and weathered adversities. They are people who play together, and work together. They are people just like you and me who have made a difference with their hands.
Laura at Day by Day in Our World Both the photography and the ‘backstory’ have proven to be captivating and I’m looking forward to my print copy finally arriving here. Even from the pdf file, I find the photos drawing me in and wanting to expand upon what is written as my imagination extends the story beyond the words on the page. I can only wish that some one might look at my hands one day and see the stories behind them.
Jill at Frugal Plus The Inspirational stories found in this treasure will give you a glimpse into many Individual lives and you may just do some self-reflection yourself. The photography of each Individuals hands is heartfelt and you can almost "feel" the years of life lessons.
Kim at Window To My World I've always been fascinated by what hands tell us about people, so this book appealed to me a great deal! I remember sitting in church as a child examining my mother's hands. God places the story of life in the hands, doesn't He? Well, this book captures some fascinating pictures and vignettes about life. They are not all from a Christian world view, but they are interesting. If you've always noticed hands like I have, this will be aREAL treasure for you! I hope you will take time to enjoy this fascinating book!
12/20
Tina at Giving N Sharing I think the story that touched me the most is the story of Fran who is preparing for her son's wedding by getting her hair nails done and yet because of cancer she can't attend. Or there is Carol who writes "stories for the journey" and uses writing in her counseling career to help others. There are hands that pray, hands that lie still, hands that caress and hands that help others ~ but that isn't all that this book is about. It's about the stories of individuals who have lived life and have survived.
Angela at All Grown Up? I absolutely LOVE this book. Real by Shelley Malcom is more like a coffee table book than any other type of book. Its stories are heartwarming and make you see the good in life, the pictures are hauntingly gorgeous as all you see are the subjects hands. It is a wonderful concept!
Heather at Scoomer Blog I had the privilege of reviewing Shelley Malcom's new and A-M-A-Z-I-N-G book recently. The book is a compilation of 60 touching and inspiring stories of people and their lives. The stories are moving and deep, while the photos of the subjects hands are just as moving and detailed, there remains an anonymity to them as you never see the subjects faces. I am in LOVE with this book and have shared it with everyone who comes to my house! It combines so much: beauty, art, substance, simplicity, that it draws you in with the first profile. Which happens to be my favorite one in the book.
Tammy at Bluerose's Heart The pictures just really touched my heart. It's amazing what you can take from a picture of hands. Just looking at some of them brought tears to my eyes. I could "feel" how fragile or how strong the person might be, and see how some have struggled through life. They were all unique, yet beautiful!
Tonya at Geek Girl Reviews This is such a beautiful and inspirational book filled with pictures.
12/21
JHS at Colloquium Real is a perfect book to pick up when you are feeling depressed or defeated because the short summaries of those featured on its pages will help restore one's hope and determination.
Jacque at Good Family Reads The pictures of the hands will make you stop and look at your own hands and decide if they are telling the story you want to pass on to your future generations or do we need to change something in our own life.
Karyn at Teach Beside Me What I love about this book is that it is so "real" just like the title states. You connect with the people in the stories so easily because they could be your neighbor or friend. It was a joy reading this book.
Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful I received this book in the mail only a week or so ago, and was unable to put it down until I had reached the final page. The photography in this volume of insightful prose is very peaceful and captivating, and the accompanying stories will leave you smiling and thoughtful. I very much enjoyed Real and I highly recommend this lovely book to anyone who appreciates beauty and a heart-warming story.
Patty at Broken Teepee I found the strength and resilience of the people behind the hands to be very uplifting. The stories were perfect gems to read when I had just a few spare minutes and in need of a smile. Many tales I returned to several times. It's a book to keep handy like that. I usually read before bed but some nights when I'm too tired or my head hurts one of these inspirational tales was just the perfect read before sleep. It's real alright.
Erin at Connected 2 Christ Real is a book that will truly move you. There is nothing more encouraging and inspirational than the stories of others that come from many different backgrounds and lifestyles. Of the the sixty stories in the book, each are categorized accordingly in the following topics; Courage, Hope, Renewal, Work, Dreams, Balance, Wisdom and Acceptance, Inspiration, Purpose, Life, and Love. Stories are paired with stunning yet simplistic photos that illustrate and focus on the subjects life and shared story.
Janet at Along the Way Every once in a while, I come across a book that I want to share with all my friends. Real is one of those books. The photographs and stories are simple, yet stunning and unforgettable. After reading this book, I think I might just spend more time looking at the hands of the people I spend time with.
Michele at My Blessings From Above The stories within the pages of this book are beautiful. You will meet folks who have so few material possessions yet have so much more. You will meet husbands and wives who have shared their lives with each other for many years. You will meet folks who struggle each day and folks who heal.
Nicole at Wyoming Girl *turned* Coastie Wife I loved the photos in Real. The beauty and character in all the different hands portrayed was gorgeous! They were such interesting vivid photos that went along so well with each story about the person who these hands belong to.
Crystal at My Reading Room Real is a great coffee-table type book. It's one to just leave out and pick up and read a few pages from now and then and look at the beautiful and heartfelt pictures. Yes they are just pictures of hands, but paired with the stories they become so much more than that. They become the pictures and stories of people's hopes, dreams, love, search for balance, wisdom, acceptance and so much more.
Luanne at A Bookworm's World Real is a unique project and a truly moving, inspirational and poignant book.
Nov 28, 2011
7/9 - 7/26: Inescapable by Nancy Mehl
6/7 - 6/28: Glamorous Illuisions by Lisa Tawn Begren
5/7 - 5/24: My Stubborn Heart by Becky Wade
4/23 - 5/12: Cravings - The Devotional by Carey Bailey
4/12 - 4/25: Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides by Shirley Brosius, Janine Boyer , Kim Messinger
4/2 - 4/19: The Wedding Dress by Rachel Hauck
3/19 - 4/7: By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer
3/15 - 4/5: The Money Saving Mom's Budget Audio Book by Crystal Paine
3/12 - 3/30: Gabby's Stick-To-It Day by Sheila Walsh
3/12 - 3/31: Baroness by Susan May Warren
3/7 - 3/29: Song of My Heart by Kim Vogel Sawyer
3/5 - 3/22: More Beauty, Less Beast by Debora Coty
3/5 - 3/22: Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings
3/1 - 3/20: Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love
2/22 - 3/15: The Maid of Fairbourn Hall by Julie Klassen
2/21 - 3/13: Blue Moon Promises by Coleen Coble
2/15 - 3/8: The Beautiful Wife by Sandy Ralya
2/13 - 3/1: Embraced by God by Babbie Mason
2/9 - 2/28: Sweeter Than Birdsong by Rosslyn Elliott
2/1 - 2/16: Beyond Molasses Creek by Nicole Seitz
1/26 - 2/11: Four Letter Words by Bill Giovannetti
1/23 - 2/4: Mornings with Jesus 2012, Guideposts
1/23 - 2/4: The Sound of Red Returning by Sue Duffy
1/19 - 2/7: Alienation by Jon Lewis
1/16 - 1/31: Chasing Mona Lisa by Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey
1/9 - 1/24: The Shadow of Your Smile by Susan May Warren
1/3 - 1/19/12: The Keeper by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Nov 21, 2011
Welcome to the blog tour for L.K. Malone's debut fantasy YA fiction book! To celebrate the release of The Mirror of N'de, the publisher, Kregel, is sponsoring a $50 Amazon.com gift card giveaway. Details below.

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About L.K. Malone: L. K. Malone is an insatiable reader who devours nearly a book a day when she isn’t writing. Favorite genres include political thrillers, historical fiction, romance, and fantasy. Some of her favorite reads include the Hunger Games series and the Harry Potter books, which inspired her to try her hand at fantasy with a Judeo-Christian twist. Malone is a Colorado native with a large extended family, which includes two lovely young women who graciously let her mentor them through the Denver Kids program, and a handsome menagerie of pets. About the book: In the mythical city of N’de lives thirteen-year-old Hadlay and her people, the Ramash. Scorned and abused by the unloving and absent Emperor, the Ramash are poor people, placed second to the ruling class of the Oresed. Young but bold, Hadlay rages against the injustice in her city. When she is chosen for the honor of serving the Prince in the Tower, she hopes to find a way to right the wrong . . . but soon discovers that things are worse than she believed. |
Tweet or post about The Mirror of N'de and you could win $50 to Amazon.com.
To enter all you have to do is send a tweet (using @litfuse) about The Mirror of N'de or share about it on Facebook!
If you tweet we'll capture your entry when you use @litfuse. If you share it on Facebook or your blog, just email us and let us know (ckrumm@litfusegroup.com). Easy.
Not sure what to tweet/post? Here's an idea:
TWEET THIS: New YA fantasy - The Mirror of N'de - compelling narrative and creative characters! @litfuse RT for $50 to @amazon http://ow.ly/7AWGT
FACEBOOK THIS: Don’t miss this debut YA fantasy story: Crafting powerful narrative and creative characters, author L. K. Malone spins a compelling tale that combines exciting entertainment and the Christian story. In The Mirror of N’de, readers will empathize with the desires of an oppressed people, will anger at the affliction of a cruel adversary, and ultimately rejoice with the revelation of a Savior. Share this for a chance at $50 to Amazon.com http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13440685
11/29
Billy at Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer The Mirror N’De is a new intriguing novel in the fantasy world that both children and adults will enjoy reading.
Valentina at Carabosse's Library A great cast of characters along with a quirky and fun story make this a great read for children and adults alike.
Michele at My Life & Kids Library I really enjoyed reading this and L.K. Malone wrote this beautifully.
Charlene at Quintessentially Quilly If I could only pick one book I read this year to share with a friend, The Mirror of N’de would be it. I can’t begin to tell you how incredible this book is. The heroes in this story are young teens, but don’t write this off as just another young adult read. L. K. Malone has created a vivid and powerful story that will resonate within the heart of anyone who reads it.
Jennifer at Mad Moose Mama I thought this was a delightful book and was charmed by the characters found within. I loved the world and character building that the author has encompassed. There are creatures to be found within the pages that truly uncanny and the cross breeding and results can be hilarious.
11/30
Janelle at The Cole Clan Adventures I read this book super fast, I never wanted to put it down, and often got lost reading into the night.
April’s Lifestyle Show I have to say this is one of those fantasy books that I could not put down. There is a super cast of characters and all in all I loved how the author brought the characters to life.
Susan at In This Together Author L.K. Malone knocked it out of the park in her debut novel, The Mirror of N’de . Take a little excitement and danger, add a little intrigue and mystery, toss in a whole bunch of random animal “mixes” (like a Nuppy: Newt + Puppy), and a few unexplained occurrences and you have the makings for one addicting page-turner! Honestly, I could not put this book down. I finished it in one sitting.
12/1
Shelly at The Attic Girl Definitely a book you don't want to start at night unless you have a lot of time to stay up late and finish it!
Trish at In So Many Words I greatly enjoyed this book on a number of levels. It is an enjoyable “coming of age” young adult novel with intriguing characters–some likable, some not, some human, some not (or not exactly, anyway!). The allegorical setting is based on the plight of the Jews living under Roman rule, but also pulls in some of the more ancient beings from history.
Theresa at Faith and Family Reviews I really like allegories, so I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was thrilling and very interesting to read about a mysteriously forbidden bedtime story coming to life!
12/2
Kaylea at My Scrappy Life Through vivid word pictures, L.K. Malone has created a story that while fiction, shows a picture of humanity that truly happens when someone in power oppresses another segment of the population.
Sarah at Growing For Christ This is a great YA book though and if you’re looking for quality Christian fantasy then this book has what you’re looking for and more!
12/3
Theresa at Frugal Experiments I always get a slight twinge of feeling sacrilegious or blasphemous when reading a fictional story based on Biblical stories and in the beginning this was no exception. But, the adept handling of the Savior story, told through the guise of myth and spoken storytelling, combined with the interesting characters quickly changed my mind. I found myself drawn right into the story and was completely surprised by the turn of events.
Carlybird's Home The Mirror of N’de once again solidifies my reasons for liking fantasy novels.
Karen's Korner In the book The Mirror N'de author L.K. Malone develops several complex themes. I loved Malone’s willingness to look deeply into the consequences of actions, good and evil and love and betrayal, trust and deception and illusion and reality, both intended and unintended. This well written book has it all thrown in there and serves it up with a side of the unexpected. Just enough to keep you guessing.
Edward at Summit Book Reviews The book is a page turner right up to the end.
Chrystal the Self Employed Writer The whole book was a wonderful work of art. The characters were full and well developed. The plot had many turns and twists.
Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful I absolutely LOVED this book!! The Mirror Of N'de is a YA (young adult) fantasy novel with a Judeo-Christian twist, and having read several books in that category that were uber-flops, I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this one. Thankfully, and to my delight, this book is superb!
12/5
Lisa at A Casual Reader's Blog A very enjoyable book. For me, a good fantasy can sweep you away into a totally new world, and that's exactly what this book did. It was an excellent read, and I recommend to everyone who loves magical worlds and exciting adventures.
Freda's Voice This, by far, was an interesting story. It had so many wonderful elements going on.
Roberto at Books and Movies Reviews This is a wonderful book, very well written and with a deep message to the young adults in our lives.
12/6
Julee at Mommy's Memorandum The author, L.K. Malone, does an outstanding job of writing in detail, allowing the world Hadley lives in to come to life. The character development is good with Hadley being blessed with many talents and also flawed.
Faith at Labor Not in Vain Well written and mysterious, The Mirror of N'de draws one into its spell, weaving a haunting, yet quirky enchantment.
Debra at Footprints in the Butter Wow. Just wow. I want to purchase a case of these and hand them out to a lot of the young people in my life... and to suggest that their parents read it too.
Danielle at The Happy Wife My 9 and 10 year old girls really enjoyed the storyline.
12/7
Marg at Simply, Shop and Save Guest reveiw by her son The Mirror of N’de was a really good fantasy book that was hard to put down. You constantly wanted to know what was going to happen next. There were some references to Biblical stories but re-written to fit this world, which is always interesting to see how different authors handle doing. There was also some science-fiction of mixing the DNA of different animals to get new types of animals.
Heather at Faith, Family and Fun I gave this book right to my teen to see what she thought. She enjoyed the story so much, she wanted to know right away if there was a sequel.
Tammy is Blessed Anyone interested in the fantasy genre would like this book! It definitely swept me into a whole new world.
12/8
Donna at Books and Such Crafting powerful narrative and creative characters, author L. K. Malone spins a compelling tale that combines exciting entertainment and the Christian story.
Krista at Pitching Pencils The Mirror of N'De is a wonderful choice for those parents who are concerned about the fiction read by their children. Unlike other novels that include crass humor and ill-advised life choices, Malone's book is based in Christian theology and ideals. While maintaining a strict adherence to the fundamentals of traditional fantasy, Malone bases her novel in the story of the Fall and the promised hope of a return to paradise. In addition, the book incorporates basic family values that are promoted throughout the book, including respect for family, kindness toward all, and loyalty to fundamental beliefs. This book is highly recommended for Christian young adults and even adults who enjoy fantasy but want to avoid those fantasy novels that involve new age philosophy and the occult.
Sheri at The Shades of Pink What I can tell you comes straight from the mind and mouth of an 11 year old voracious reader.
It's really good. There is a class distinction in the book and it's sad. It made me think a lot. Hadlay seems like a cool girl. It kind of reminds me of Narnia.
When asked if he would recommend the book he answered in the affirmative and gave it two thumbs up.
Jacque at Good Family Reads The story flows very quickly...very much a plot driven book! I had to keep turning the page to find out what was happening. And I found myself chuckling at the many puns sprinkled throughout the book! And then I had to stop and digest what I read...it is a book that will stay with you for a few days. Very good debut and I hope to keep hearing more from L.K. Malone!
12/9
Barbara at Real Life View It's such a blessing to have a entertaining and magical book for my children to get lost in. Once begun, it is a hard to put down book. When you get to the last page you will wish there was more.
12/10
Amber at Livng at the Whitehead's Zoo As you read you could totally imagine a different time and place. You find yourself emerged in a world of fantasy, yet a familiar spiritual connection . A world of good vs. evil. A bit mythical a bit mysterious L.K. Malone does a good job of bringing fantasy to life and grabbing the imagination with these lively characters.
Annette at A Garden of Books It did not take long though to be swept up in this amazing story!
2/12
Angela at All Grown Up? The over all feeling was it was a good book! Normally the boys prefer a male hero, not a heroine, but they said it didn’t make it to girly or touchy feelie for them, so that is a good thing. lol. They admired Hadley and her fight for her people, and said “The girl has guts!”.
Nov 15, 2011

Congratulations to Janet Oliver! You've won a copy of A Lasting Impression a copy of Christy Jordan's Southern Plate Cookbook! Email your mailing address to amy {at} litfusegroup.com!
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Nov 14, 2011
**UPDATE: Winner's from The Remembering You Campaign announced here.
We're thrilled to be touring Tricia Goyer's latest contemporary WWII novel, Remembering You. She and her publisher, Guideposts, have teamed up to put together the Remembering You Giveaway (a Kindle Touch for you and one for a friend!) and a fun Book Chat (on Facebook and Live from her website) on 11/29!
Don't miss a minute of the fun.
"Goyer does well with the Greatest Generation, showing that war is more than nostalgia. This novel has a sweet way of describing family relationships and will particularly speak to those closely connected to WWII veterans, who are taking their stories with them to the grave.” Publisher's Weekly
"This story is a neat mix of old and young, past and present. There are surprises-one based on a real life reunion of a vet that Tricia personally knew. Ava has a lot to learn and many choices to navigate. I wasn't sure until the end how the ultimate story would end. This is a great contemporary twist on World War II stories." Cara Putman
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Tricia Goyer is a homeschooling mom of four (two graduated!) and an acclaimed and prolific writer, publishing hundreds of articles in national magazines. She has also written books on marriage and parenting and contributed notes to the Women of Faith Study Bible. Tricia's written numerous novels inspired by World War II veterans, including her new release Remembering You. Tricia has a weekly radio show Living Inspired and loves to share inspiring, true stories. The Goyer family live in Arkansas. For more information please visit www.triciagoyer.com. |
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35-year-old Ava Andrews' dream job is interrupted by an unusual request--fulfill her 84-year-old grandfather's last wish by joining him on a battle site tour of Europe. Ava is sure her boss will refuse her request. But, instead, he gives her a directive of his own--to videotape the tour and send it back as mini-segments for the show she produces. As if juggling these two things isn't hard enough, Ava is soon surprised again ... twice. First, Ava and Grandpa Jack arrive in Europe, only to discover the tour is cancelled. Unwilling to let down her grandfather or her boss, Ava and Grandpa Jack head out on their own. Then, while they're on their way, the pair soon meet up with Paul, her grandpa's best friend, and his grandson Dennis. The same Dennis who just happens to be Ava's first love. |
Before she knows it, Ava and Dennis are swept down memory lane as they visit the sites that are discussed in the history books. And even though Ava's videotaping old soldiers, she can see their youth, their hopes and fears, and their pride in their eyes. Soon Ava learns the trip isn't just for them ... it's for her too--especially for her heart.
Tricia is celebrating the release of her novel with a KINDLE Touch Giveaway for you ... and for the friend of your choice. Then on 11/29 she'll be wrapping up the release of Remembering You with a Book Chat Party! First she'll be chatting on Facebook, then everyone will head over to Tricia's website for a Live Chat where readers will be able to chat with Tricia via video or text.
Don't miss your chance to win a Kindle Touch for yourself ... and to "remember" a friend this holiday with a Kindle Touch for them!
One grand prize winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on November 29th. Winner will be announced at Remembering You Facebook Party on 11/29. Tricia will be hosting an author chat (on Facebook and Live from her website) and giving away copies of Remembering You, her other WWII books and gift certificates to Starbucks and Amazon.com. So grab your copy of Remembering You and join Tricia on the evening of the 29th for an author chat, a trivia contest (How much do you know about WWII?) and lots of giveaways.
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11/16
Tea Time with Annie Kate Fast-paced, yet emotional and thoughtful,Remembering Youby Tricia Goyer is a special way to focus on the heroes who fought for our freedom. Realizing that this book is based on real life stories makes it even more poignant.
Martha at Our Family's Adventures You will enjoy this story and find your eyes welling up with tears as mine did, thinking of the men who gave their all for our country.
Mocha with Linda I so enjoyed this book.
Becky at In the Pages This was a heart warming read - and it challenges you to think about what is important to you too!
11/17
Amy at A Nest in the Rocks Though much of this book deals with weighty issues, it is at heart a love story - a story of love between a man and a woman, between grandfather and granddaughter, between soldiers and victims, between God and His people. This would be a great introduction to World War II history for those who want to learn more, as well as a reminder for the rest of us of the extent that others have suffered - both as war victims and soldiers - for freedom and equality. The stories of these soldiers should not be lost, and Goyer should be commended for her work in preserving them.
Debra at Footprints in the Butter What a great book.
Abi at 4 the LOVE of BOOKS If you want a book that pays tribute to veterans then Tricia Goyer's Remembering You is just the thing. Wow what a book.
Mark at Thoughts of a Sojourner The book was an interesting and entertaining read, and I didn't even mind the romance aspect of the book. Tricia came up with a great plot and characters, and I was quickly pulled into the story, and loved the ending. A recommended read for historical fiction buffs.
Valentina at Carabosse's Library There’s a nice atmosphere to this book.
Brenda at WV Stitcher I certainly enjoyed reading the book really allowed us to visit the past while keeping a firm footing in the present. Because of the discussion questions included it would be a great book club selection.
Hannah at Project Journal I sincerely enjoyed this book from front to back. It included every element that I love to read - romance, history, religious elements, and mystery.
Amy at Cajun Joie de Vivre This was a book I’ll remember for a long time to come. It came alive inside of me.
1/18
Amy at The Ramblings of Miss Aimy Michelle Amazing. Honestly. Most times you read things about the war and its just really boring to be perfectly honest. I went in thinking I’d only read a few chapters and that would be it. And that is not how it went at all. I got sucked into the story and suddenly some war stories weren't boring at all. And neither was this book. It;s so packed and has some shocking moments in it. It was a really great read.
Karla at Ramblin' Roads The theme of the book was very interesting to me. I also enjoyed the element of romance that was woven into the story.
Ruth at This That and the Other Thing Tricia Goyer did a wonderful job in this book of showing us how their experiences during WWII shaped the lives of her grandfather and his best wartime (and lifetime) friend. We saw the good and the bad. We saw a man who was a hero, and also a man who realized he was a sinner and needed Christ in his life.
Tammi at Our Homeschooling Pilgrimage I loved the characters in this story, they were so real that they leapt off the page. I watched them grow with each new experience, and as they learned more about each other. They learned forgiveness, compassion, to listen, and to accept each other as they are. They also grew in their love of God.
April's Lifestyle Show This was another book that took me back in time, it was very romantic I thought. I loved busy Ava getting to know her grandfather better and reading his war letters.
Mindy at A Room without Books is Empty I really enjoyed this book alot more than I thought I would.
Kimberly at Living On Limited Income I read this book in less than a day. I could not put it down.
11/19
Trish at In So Many Words Remembering You is a timely reminder about honoring those who fight for freedom, as well as about the importance of love and family in our lives. I truly enjoyed this book.
Amie at Surviving the Chaos If you like the idea of an aging WWII hero tribute with a splash of romance, this will be right up your alley. Happy endings never hurt. ;)
Reviews By Molly Mixing past with present, Tricia Goyer has hit another home run with this new novel! Ava's character is well rounded and complex, and really pulled at my heart strings! The plot line is fantastic and instantly captivating. The reader is whisked away to become Ava's friend for the duration of the novel, and by the end of the book, you'll be feeling as if you're saying goodbye to family.
Kim at Window To My World This story is a vivid reminder of the price that was paid for freedom. WWII was a unique time in history, and Tricia Goyer did a fabulous job capturing all facets of that battle - emotionally, phyiscally and mentally. She weaves real human emotion and transformation throughout the story, and the reader enjoys several stories evolving all at once - using a very special time in history to tie all of them together.
Danielle at The Happy Wife The part of the book that I enjoyed the most were the stories from World War II that were retold, with some poetic license, but were generally accurate. The descriptions that the author uses allows the reader to feel as though they are in these places themselves, both currently when the characters are on their trip, but also when they are reminiscing about their war experiences. I recommend this book to any one who enjoys historical fiction, particularly World War II, and stories of first loves reconnecting.
Vic's Media Room Ms. Goyer has done a superb job in giving us history, romance and relationships all in one great big tasty meal that everyone can feast at.
11/21
Hannah at Beauty from Inside I like the setting of Europe, and the author Tricia Goyer writes in a casual writing style that is likable, easy to relate to, and plays like a film in one's head as you read
Caroline at Happy Four An incredibly beautiful written book about relationships, multi-generations and days gone by. This book weaves in the history of Word War II in a beautiful way as you relive the past through the eyes of a soldier who represented America during the war and witnessed horrendous events and also were instructional in freedom. The book is also about the freedom from the past on many levels and of true love found. A wonderful book that I can't recommend enough!
Joy at Splashes Of Joy I did find the characters unique and very likeable, especially after getting to know them better. This is truly a book well worth reading.
Laura at Lighthouse Academy If you like contemporary romances with a large helping of history, then Tricia Goyer’s REMEMBERING YOU will be perfect. It might also be perfect for the WWII veteran on your Christmas gift list. Fascinating notes from the author are included at the end of the book, as well as discussion questions.
Nancy at Bookfoolery and Babble The fluidity of [Tricia Goyer's] writing is excellent and her research strong.
Carlybird's Home The story, the history, the travel and the characters were all so very well written in this book, I really felt like Tricia Goyer has outdone herself.
11/22
Whitney at Rambles of a SAHM I loved the story of Grandpa Jack and Ava and Grand-Paul and Dennis. It was delightful to journey with the four of them through Europe and relive the experiences that the two grandfathers had during World War II while they were fighting in the 41 st Cavalry Recon Squadron, Eleventh Armored Division, Patton’s Third US Army. The author’s ability to make you feel as if you are touring with them is amazing. Her descriptions of the Parisian people were spot on.
Cindy's Book Reviews I enjoyed the book very much, it was a great story, different from Tricia's other WWII books, but was very interesting. I cried with Ava as she realized how frail and old her grandpa was. I laughed at the antics of the two old friends as they tried their hand at some matchmaking. I enjoyed reading about WWII through the eyes of Ava, coming to grips with the things her grandfather went through as a young man, and finding her own faith again.
Freda at Freda's Voice This is a great story and with a well thought out premise.
Crystal at Cinnamon Hollow Tricia did a wonderful job capturing the stories of the men she interviewed and based the story off of. I could imagine the sounds and smells coming from the camps and the joy those men and women at Mauthausen must have felt when they realized they were being freed. I would normally say I can’t even imagine. But when reading Remembering You, you CAN imagine. You DO imagine what they must have experienced. I had cold chills throughout the entire story. You can easily picture what the story is depicting. You can almost smell the scent of fresh baked bread and flowers as she describes Paris in May and the medieval thickness in the air in Germany. I started reading Remembering You and only put it down twice.
Meg at Writings and Wanderings Beautifully written, Remembering You is a remarkable look into the life of one woman as she gets to know her grandfather in a way she never expected, and draws closer to love with the man she’s never forgotten. Ava’s story, as well as the one of her grandfather, will not leave you for a long time to come, even after you’ve finished turning these pages.
11/23
Lydia at Overweight Bookshelf An interesting and contemporary take on the World War 2 subgenre that will appeal to history buffs and contemporary lovers alike.
Katie at Legacy of a Writer I completely enjoyed this journey down memory lane. Each interview that Grandpa Jack or Grand-Paul did for Ava seemed to real and filled with vivid detail and emotion. Remembering You is a story that needs to be savored. I think veterans from the war would appreciate the time and love that Tricia Goyer has put into this book! Historical fans who enjoy books centered around WWII will enjoy this very unique approach to reliving the war—In a way that we all can relate to today.
Christy at Loves Books Remembering You is both moving and heart-wrenching. While fiction it also contains elements that really happened. To me this added so much to the book.
Lauri at Knits, Reads and Reviews I LOVED this book, Tricia Goyer has never disappointed me, and this is one of those stories that will stick with you for a long time. This story is a look back in time and takes you through a journey of the heart. The characters in this book are so real that you may feel as though you are reading about your own grandfather, the love story is not just between Ava and Dennis, but also of the love between grandchildren and grandparents as well a love between those who are forever bonded by war.
Brooke at I blog 4 books Oh. My. Word. I just finished the last page of Remembering You by Tricia Goyer. I'm not sure that words can adequately express my thoughts on this book! This is an amazing story of love, loss, regret, family, friends, faith, and forgiveness. Tricia Goyer has an uncanny way of telling a story. The way she weaves together the past and present is dynamite. I felt as thought I was traveling through Europe with the foursome.
Rel at Relz Reviewz Guest post by Tricia.
Celena at The Traveling Sisterhood's Bookshelf I very much enjoyed Remembering You & recommend it, especially for anyone who'd like to have a better love and understanding for our country and our veterans!
11/25
Pam at Daysong Reflections I enjoyed every page of ‘Remembering You’ and recommend it to lovers of historical fiction. This book would make a wonderful addition to your own library or a nice gift for a friend or family member.
Kendra at Happily Managing a Household of Boys WOW! I LOVED this book!! I began reading it and thought that I would be "Bored" and would not be able to get into it. Well, I guess the saying "Never judge a book by its cover" rings very true right now! Remembering You is a fictional book based on real life events and Tricia Goyer really brings the story and characters "Alive" and makes the reader feel like you are there in the story and time of the book.
Michelle at Beyond The Silver and The Gold Remembering You is a very well-written and well-thought of book. The kind of book you know that the author spent a lot of time researching. I find that what Tricia says is true: we who live in the present time don't know much about the members of our families who lived through the war. Even if I am Filipino, I still hear my parents talk about the war that happened when they were children. I never really thought how important it was to listen to the stories they tell until I've read Remembering You.
Jill at Frugal Plus A Must Read!
Linda's Lunacy Remembering You is a very touching story of World War 2 veterans returning to the battlefields they survived.
11/26
Pattie at Fresh-Brewed Writer What's not to like about a story like this? I enjoyed the story, Ava's journey not only with her grandfather as he takes his, but in her own heart.
Becky at Christian Chick's Thoughts I was completely taken in by the look back at World War II in Remembering You. Ava's grandfather's memories were captivating, and as Ava sought answers, so did I. I absolutely flew through this book, finishing it in just two sittings. I wanted to hear more from Ava's Grandpa Jack and his friend Grand-Paul. Their stories, which are based in fact, were at turns inspiring and heart breaking. I could have read much, much more about these two men.
Angela at All Grown up? Remembering You by Tricia Goyer is a book that was both wonderful and difficult for me to read. My dad was in WWII and doesn’t talk about it very much. We only know a handful of stories of his time there, so reading Remembering You was a bit like seeing into my Dad’s history! To imagine what he went through, things he did, circumstances he survived while reading this book made it more poignant for me. Yes this is a fictional book, but the history is real. Tricia interviewed folks who experienced it, she got to know them and love them, thus making this novel even better!
Tiffany at A Cozy Reader's Corner Reviews Poignant, dramatic and compelling, Remembering You was an enjoyable and thoughtful read. I loved the characters, the storyline and the pace of this book. It's much different than other novels I've read by Goyer. I found myself highly engrossed in the history, touched by the tribute to those who have served and entranced with the story. I would highly recommend this read.
Sara at Shoopette's Book Reviews The basis of this story is one of the worst eras in human history: World War II and the Holocaust. Tricia Goyer deals with this horrific era with dignity and respect, weaving a thoughtful story of faith and what it means to be a true hero.
Kaylea at My Scrappy Life Remembering You is a mufti-layered story. Not only does it follow Ava's journey to find out more about herself - as a person, journalist and granddaughter, but also Jack's journey to put away the ghosts of the past.This book was powerful. It put a new face on WWII and the living history that exists because of the brave men and women who took part in that effort.
Michele at My Blessings From Above I really enjoyed reading Remembering You.
Jennifer at A Peace of Mind
Melanie at So Many Books.. So Little Time Beautiful story of WWII veterans, the struggles and memories that they went through. The relationship building between Grandfathers and their grandchildren was fantastic, and made me want to give my own Grandparents a phone call. Dynamic characters really draw the reader deep into the story, the past and the present. Tricia Goyer has brought facts of WWII alive in this novel and it is obvious the immense research she put into it
11/28
Hey Lorri The characters are all likable.
Renee at Doorkeeper Though the romantic premise was intriguing, I most enjoyed Jack and Paul’s stories. As they shared their memories and dealt with the grief and guilt they’d harbored over the years, my heart was truly touched. I’m confident yours will be, too!
Kat at Reviews From The Heart This is such a wonderful book to read.
Alexia at The Mommy Rambles I thought Tricia wrote a fantastic book, I loved every moment of it and this is one of those books where I actually read the author's notes at the end because I connected so thoroughly with her characters!
Jacque at Good Family Reads I absolutely fell in love with this book. To say it was amazing is simply just an understatement! The writing touched every nerve of my brain. This book had it all, torn family, long lost love, unresolved history and so much more! The research that had to go into this book is just incredible
Nancy at Amusing Reviews The strongest point about the book was the subject matter.
Michelle at Life in Review This story is part family drama, with a little mystery & suspense, and sweet romance. I loved Ava’s character and I could really relate to her.
11/29
Linda at Christian Book Reviews Being so close to Veteran’s day, it’s a time to remember and give thanks to all the soldiers and their families for the sacrifices they made on our behalf. Thanks also to Tricia for sharing these memories with us in novel format.
Stephanie-jean at Life: SemiCrunchy 5/5 stars! A must read! I absolutely loved this book!
Suzanne at Cows & Lasers and Everything in Between For anyone who enjoys reading about World War II or if you are just in the mood for a great book that you can curl up with and finish a few hours later this one is perfect!
Preslaysa The Literary Mama http://www.preslaysa.com Remembering You is a wonderful reading experience. Although I haven’t finished the entire story yet, I am intrigued about the relationship between a grandparent and a grandaughter as they explore the granfather’s WWII memories. I aso love a the theme running throughout this book. Can we redeem the past? Goyer’s fine writing is a wonderful mix of history, romance and family that will keep you turning pages.
Jennifer at Crazy-for-Books I loved the historical aspects of this novel.
Roxanna at The Jolly Blogger Tricia is most certainly talented. I’ve read her self-help, Amish fiction, and now have a taste of her finesse for historical writing. I can’t wait to see the genres she’ll attempt next!
Theresa at Faith and Family Reviews Remembering You is a book with an excellent story line that is more than just about a romance occurring during a historical event. It is about honor, forgiveness, relationships and loving people for who they were, are and going to be.
Crystal at My Reading Room I enjoyed Remembering You because it was different. It delved into remembrances and current lives simultaneously and I love how Ms. Goyer wove these stories together like she did. I highly recommend this book to anyone fascnated with the WWII era. Though it takes place in the modern era, it's worth reading just for those remembrances and the respect that is given to the soldiers all through Europe in the liberated towns. Beautifully researched and beautifully done.
Book Reviews By Jenny Tricia's novel leaps off the page and wraps you in the telling of a beautiful story. She weaves all the ends together seamlessly and beautifully.
Heidi's Ramblings, Reflections & Reviews
JHS at Colloquium Goyer infuses her story with tenderness, compassion, and an appreciation of historical context.
Holly at 2 Kids and Tired Books An enthralling, enjoyable historical read and one I easily recommend.