Marcell the Shell with Shoes On - Video

Macell the Shell with Shoes On is a video that was critiqued in the Entertainment Weekly magazine. I thought it looked cute, so I checked it out. Wow, surprising how something that looks like it should be kitchy is actually surprisingly sweet and touching. This shell's interview is a very subtle comment on a much bigger part of life. Hope you all enjoy watching it.

New Artist Angela Hope Taylor - They Haven't Seen This

Meet Angela Hope Taylor, a long time friend and musician. Angela currently lives in California and is using her vocal and writing talents to create a one of a kind, can't be missed album. She comes from a family of talented singers, writers and musicians, so it's no surprise to see she's taking her talent and spreading her wings. I posted earlier about a local gospel group known as Brother John. That's Angela's family, so you can see just how deep the talent runs. Her style is unique and takes a different turn from her roots, but the gift is still there and she's making a mark all her own on music.

Here is her latest work. You can subscribe to Angela on YouTube.com to follow her work and watch for upcoming releases. This release is just the tip of the ice burg from an artist that has a lot to offer. Be sure to let her know what you think of her music and share it with your friends.

CFBA: Surrender the Heart by M.L. Tyndall

Song Stuck on the Brain: Our God is an Awesome God by Michael W. Smith

After finishing this book, this song started running through my head and stuck with me the whole night. I think it sums up the whole theme of Surrender the Heart perfectly.

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:



Surrender the HeartBarbour Publishing (August 1, 2010)

by
M. L. Tyndall

MY TAKE:

I've always loved a good princess and the pirate tale, but Surrender the Heart is so much more. MaryLu took on that theme with a wink and a grin, and then created something so much larger. Noah and Marianne are amazing characters that in the beginning you'd just like to strangle because they're so perfect for one another and yet too tied up in their own issues to see it. Strangle them and want to hug them, too. It's so easy to see a reflection of myself in each of them. Despite the realistic drama in each of their lives, they're also FUN. Both characters are spunky and determined and completely and irritatingly charming. You can't help but fall in love with Noah and cheer for Marianne and her grit.

Surrounding the charming hero and heroine are a cast of characters you won't likely forget. Daniel and his special messages from God and unshakable faith. Lieutenant Reed and his honor among a den of thieves parading as soldiers. Luke, Matthew and Agnes. You'll see what I mean.

I think the part that touched me the most was the interwoven message that through all the mess and uncertainty, each character learned that God is always there, His love is ever present and no matter how insignificant we feel - each of us has a purpose. Just as Esther was born for "such a time as this", we never know when we'll be called upon to fulfill our destiny for Jesus.

Little Daniel said it best. You can't know that God won't turn your mess into good, because you haven't reached the end of the story yet. Just like a good tale, yours isn't over yet, so hold onto your hope and faith and remember you may have been born for such a time as this.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

For the sake of her ailing mother, Marianne Denton becomes engaged to Noah Brennin---a merchantman she despises. But as the War of 1812 escalates, Jonah's ship is captured by the British, and the ill-matched couple learns vital information that could aid America's cause.

Relive the rich history of the War of 1812 through the eyes of Marianne Denton and Noah Brenin, who both long to please their families but neither one wishes to marry the other. Noah is determined to get his cargo to England before war breaks out, and Marianne is equally determined to have a wedding so that her inheritance can be unlocked and her destitute family saved. When their stubborn games get them captured by a British warship, can they escape and bring liberty to their country—and growing love?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Surrender the Heart, go HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

M. L. (MaryLu) Tyndall grew up on the beaches of South Florida loving the sea and the warm tropics. But despite the beauty around her, she always felt an ache in her soul--a longing for something more.

After college, she married and moved to California where she had two children and settled into a job at a local computer company. Although she had done everything the world expected, she was still miserable. She hated her job and her marriage was falling apart.

Still searching for purpose, adventure and true love, she spent her late twenties and early thirties doing all the things the world told her would make her happy, and after years, her children suffered, her second marriage suffered, and she was still miserable.

One day, she picked up her old Bible, dusted it off, and began to read. Somewhere in the middle, God opened her hardened heart to see that He was real, that He still loved her, and that He had a purpose for her life, if she'd only give her heart to Him completely.

She had written stories her whole life, but never had the confidence to try and get any of them published. But as God began to change her heart, He also showed her that writing had been His wonderful plan for her all along!

CFBA: Masquerade by Nancy Moser

Song Stuck on the Brain: Ours by The Bravery

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:



MasqueradeBethany House (August 1, 2010)


by



Nancy Moser



MY TAKE:

Nancy has a way with words and her characters reflect that gift. Dora and Lottie each have a unique personality and it's their conversations and flirtations that showcase that the best. You can tell that she has drawn bits of inspiration from many classic novels and created her own unique story. The Prince and the Pauper is probably the most obvious, but I could feel bits of Les Miserables, Pride and Prejudice, and even a dash of Twelfth Night.

The premise of maid and lady switching places is fun and obviously leads to many humorous and delightful moments, but it's the darker, deeper places that Nancy leads her characters that makes this book truly memorable. New York City is often romanticized, but she shows us a much more gritty and moving view through the eyes of someone who is an outsider. Much like a good portion of her readers, we see it for all that it is and grow with Lottie as she finds her real purpose.

A fantastic, fun and moving story.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

They risk it all for adventure and romance, but find that love only flourishes in truth...

1886, New York City: Charlotte Gleason, a rich heiress from England, escapes a family crisis by traveling to America in order to marry the even wealthier Conrad Tremaine.

She soon decides that an arranged marriage is not for her and persuades her maid, Dora, to take her place. She wants a chance at "real life," even if it means giving up financial security. For Charlotte, it's a risk she's willing to take. What begins as the whim of a spoiled rich girl wanting adventure becomes a test of survival amid poverty beyond Charlotte's blackest nightmares.

As for Dora, it's the chance of a lifetime. She lives a fairy tale complete with gowns, jewels, and lavish mansions--yet is tormented by guilt from the possibility of discovery and the presence of another love that will not die. Is this what her heart truly longs for?

Will their masquerade be discovered? Will one of them have second thoughts? There is no guarantee the switch will work. It's a risk. It's the chance of a lifetime.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Masquerade, go HERE.

View the book trailer:






ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Moser is the award-winning author of over twenty inspirational novels. Her genres include contemporary stories including John 3:16 and Time Lottery, and historical novels of real women-of-history including Just Jane(Jane Austen) and Washington's Lady (Martha Washington). Her newest historical novel is Masquerade. Nancy and her husband Mark live in the Midwest. She’s earned a degree in architecture, traveled extensively in Europe, and has performed in numerous theaters, symphonies, and choirs. She gives Sister Circle Seminars around the country, helping women identify their gifts as they celebrate their sisterhood. She is a fan of anything antique—humans included. Find out more at

http://www.nancymoser.com/ and http://www.sistercircles.com/.

Liu Wei plays piano with feet

Next time I complain that I can't drive because of the possibility of a seizure, I'm going to remember this. I can't believe how many times I've let the littlest of things in life hold me back when they're nothing in comparison to this.

Liu Wei's demonstration of determination and courage with a positive attitude is so inspiring. I love his life's motto: "Live wonderfully."

I can't post the actual video here, but PLEASE visit this link to watch this amazing pianist with no arms play the piano beautifully with his FEET.

CFBA: The Crimson Cipher by Susan Page Davis

Song Stuck on the Brain: My Love by Sia

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:



The Crimson CipherSummerside Press (July 1, 2010)



by


Susan Page Davis

MY TAKE:

How can you go wrong combining secret ciphers, romance, war and patriotism? I loved this book. I've always been intrigued by number puzzles. I'm not very good at them, but that hasn't stopped me from reading about them. I'm amazed at the minds that create such complex systems, and even more amazed at those that can crack them. The Crimson Cipher really has the best of all elements. Emma and John's romance is sweet and builds slowly, but believably for the situation they're in. Their characters are both strong and reserved, but this only lends a needed gravity for the chaos surrounding them. Without it, the story would have fallen apart. The rest of the cast balance that out with several colorful and strong personalities. Choosing to set the story during WWI was an interesting choice as well, since so many of the historical's focus around WWII.

I'm anxious to share this one with my friends and family. I highly recommend this book, for it's unique subject matter, and for the clarity and engaging way it's presented; as well as the overall hook of intrigue and romance.




ABOUT THE BOOK:

IT'S 1915, AND EMMA SHUSTER HAS FAR TOO MUCH ON HER MIND TO ENTERTAIN NOTIONS OF ROMANCE...

A female Navy cryptographer seeks to save lives...and uncover her father’s killers.

In 1915, German sympathizers escalated acts of sabotage in the United States to keep the nation from joining in the war. With enemies lurking at every turn, whom can Emma trust? Is romance the true motive behind her tow suitors advances? Or could one-or both of them-have traitorous intentions in mind?

Following the mysterious murder of Emma Shuster’s father, Lt. John Patterson invites Emma to become a Navy cryptographer because of the expertise she gained in helping her father develop a cipher system.

Emma races to discover the nefarious plans of her country's foes and unmask their leader before others are killed. She finds new strength in her faith as she strives to outwit her adversary, known only as Kobold - German for goblin.

And yet, her greatest challenge may be deciphering the cryptic messages her heart sends whenever she encounters a certain navy lieutenant... Can Emma and John find love in the midst of turmoil as America plunges toward war?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Crimson Cipher, go HERE.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

From Susan: I've always loved reading, history, and horses. These things come together in several of my historical books. My young adult novel, Sarah's Long Ride, also spotlights horses and the rugged sport of endurance riding, as does the contemporary romance Trail to Justice. I took a vocational course in horseshoeing after earning a bachelor's degree in history. I don't shoe horses anymore, but the experience has come in handy in writing my books.

Another longtime hobby of mine is genealogy, which has led me down many fascinating paths. I'm proud to be a DAR member! Some of Jim's and my quirkier ancestors have inspired fictional characters.

For many years I worked for the Central Maine Morning Sentinel as a freelancer, covering local government, school board meetings, business news, fires, auto accidents, and other local events, including a murder trial. I've also written many profiles and features for the newspaper and its special sections. This experience was a great help in developing fictional characters and writing realistic scenes. I also published nonfiction articles in several magazines and had several short stories appear in Woman's World, Grit, and Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine.

My husband, Jim, and I moved to his birth state, Oregon, for a while after we were married, but decided to move back to Maine and be near my family. We're so glad we did. It allowed our six children to grow up feeling close to their cousins and grandparents, and some of Jim's family have even moved to Maine!

Our children are all home-schooled. The two youngest are still learning at home. Jim recently retired from his vocation as an editor at a daily newspaper, and we’ve moved from Maine to Kentucky.

New CD by Brother John

Music is incredibly important in our family. If we aren't singing or writing, we're listening. We love all styles. But inspirational music has a special place in our hearts. I'm the youngest of 5 kids (and numerous foster siblings) and growing up, there was one musical group we all listened to. You may never have heard of them, they're probably more of a local phenomenon, but they're popularity can't be denied and it's only grown over the years.

The group is called Brother John. If you've not heard their music, then I hope you'll take the chance to listen now. It's inspired and infectious.

Over the years the family group put out 8 cassette tapes. We owned them all. They went with us on every car trip and we played them in the house regularly. Eventually we came to know the Brother John family personally and love them as if they were our own family. We went to their concerts, I attended school with their kids and my love for their talent has only grown the longer I've known them. In fact Dad loved their music so much, both songs at his memorial service were done by Brother John. He would have been thrilled.

The only problem is that we wore our cassette tapes out. Multiple times. I think we've owned at least 4 complete sets. Now that cassette tapes are nearly obsolete, I've been anxiously awaiting a re-release on CD. Brother John assured us, and the rest of their huge fan base, that they were working on the remastering and re-release. But the project was arduous and it took a little time. Thankfully, the wait is over!


They've just released a new 2-disc set of their greatest hits in a collection called "Keep it Burning". Thirty-five of their most popular songs. Brother John is not only known for their great voices and harmonies, but their inspired songwriting and the spirit in which it's written.

Please visit their new website Brother John Songs and take a look around. Listen to their song clips, read the lyrics and learn all about this amazing and inspiring group. I know you'll love them as much as our family, and so many others, do.

P.S.

I was so inspired with their updated music release and site, I update our own music page as well. Our music is now available for digital download as well. You can listen to music clips here on the blog. The player is in the side-bar, or you can purchase the music at our web site. http://www.theerwins.com/erwinmusic.htm .

CFBA: Malacca Conspiracy by Don Brown

Song Stuck on the Brain: My Love by Sia - Twilight Eclipse Soundtrack

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:

Malacca ConspiracyZondervan (June 4, 2010)

by
Don Brown

MY TAKE:

The Malacca Conspiracy is high energy political suspense. No doubt about it. Don Brown is a talented writer.

I did find that it took a little while to get into the real action. Setting up the politics and the main issues that begin the intrigue took a good piece of the beginning, and although it was interesting I found it hard to follow at first. Probably because I'm not that into politics and this area of the world was completely unknown to me. Once established however, the main cast come in with a bang to save the day and it never really slows down from there.

I am a fan of political suspense, usually though it focuses around more common areas of the world. It was interesting to find a new part of the world to see into. At least new to me. Great writing. Check it out and see if you find Don's style as intriguing as the political hotbeds he writes about.




ABOUT THE BOOK:

A rogue Indonesian general and his army of terrorists attack oil tankers in the Strait of Malacca in order to profit from oil futures and buy nuclear weapons to establish an Islamic superpower.

Navy JAG officers Zack Brewer and Diane Colcernian race against the odds and a 24-hour deadline before nuclear attacks hit the United States. Departing from the sea of books barely better than soap opera romance and using the frantic pacing of suspense fiction, Brown glides flawlessly among global hotspots of terrorism--including the United States--and the book's principal settings in Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

The President of the United States orders ships of the U.S. Seventh Fleet towards the Malacca Straits to reassert control over the sea lanes, but with time quickly ticking away, will they arrive in time for Zack and Diane to survive this dangerous and final high-stakes drama of life and death?

Sign up for the contest above! And if you would like to read the first chapter of Malacca Conspiracy, go HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

DON BROWN, a former U.S. Navy JAG Officer, is the author of Zondervan’s riveting NAVY JUSTICE SERIES. a dynamic storyline chronicling the life and adventures of JAG officer ZACK BREWER. In 2003, Don began writing Treason, his first novel in the NAVY JUSTICE SERIES.

Paying no homage to political correctness, DON BROWN’S writing style is described as “gripping,” casting an entertaining and educational spin on a wide-range of current issues, from radical Islamic infiltration of the military, to the explosive issue of gays in the military, to the modern day issues of presidential politics in the early 21st Century.

In November of 2009, four years after it was released, and in the wake of Fort Hood, TREASON rocketed to the top-selling in the nation on the Amazon.com bestseller list for fiction, and remained there for over a week. On Thanksgiving Day of 2009, all four of Don’s novels were ranked in the top 5 on the Amazon bestseller list for fiction!

DON BROWN graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1982, and after finishing law school, continued his post-graduate studies through the Naval War College, earning the Navy’s nonresident certificate in International Law.

During his five years on active duty in the Navy, Don served in the Pentagon, was published in the Naval Law Review, and was also a recipient of the Navy Achievement Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

New Author Aprlynne Pike's Wings

I just finished a great new book by author Aprilynne Pike called Wings. I'll admit, the first thing that caught my attention, was that in googling my name (yes, guilty) it brought up Aprilynne Pike. Hmm, interesting another author named April. It's not like it's a hugely common name, so it's always interesting to check them out. I pulled up her webpage and started reading.

"Aprilynne Pike's #1 New York Times best-selling debut, Wings, is the first of four books about a seemingly ordinary girl named Laurel.

Laurel discovers she is a faerie, sent among humans to protect the gateway to Avalon. Thrust into the midst of a centuries-old battle between faeries and trolls, she's torn between a human and a faerie love, as well as her loyalties to each world. In this extraordinary tale of magic and intrigue, romance and danger, everything you thought you knew about faeries will be changed forever."

Okay, so that had me hooked right away. I love fantasy and anything revolving around the Fae and Avalon. They had my attention. I checked it out of the library and read it in one sitting. (just under 4 hours straight.) I loved it.

I noticed that author Stephanie Meyers (Twilight Saga) had commented on her books too.

"Aprilynne Pike's Wings is a remarkable debut; the ingenuity of the mythology is matched only by the startling loveliness with which the story unfolds."

--Stephenie Meyer, #1 New York Times best-selling author of the Twilight Saga

Impressive, right? Stephenie's right too. It's very unique and imaginative. And I won't go into detail so much as why because I don't want to give all the good stuff away. You have to read it for yourself. If you're a fan of Twilight or Harry Potter or anything like that, there is a good chance you will love this series as well.

However, don't think that this IS another Twilight. It has it's own unique brand of fantastic. I think Aprilynne Pike's books have just as much chance at becoming the next big phenomenon of YA lit, but I hate it when people try to promote them as the next SUCH and such.

Honestly, it's an insult to both authors. There will never be another Twilight. It is fantastic, unique, and inspiring. Anything touted as the next Twilight is going to be seen as a pale comparison. Totally unfair to the new author who's work might be great on it's own. And if it's not, how unfair to Stephenie Meyer's that her ground breaking work is being compared to something sub-par.

The same goes for JK Rowling's Harry Potter, George Lucas' Star Wars, or J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. There will never be another series like them. Don't try, don't compare. They are all legendary and deserve to stay that way.

So I'm NOT comparing Aprilynne Pike's Wings and following books to anything particular. Trust me on this one though, it is totally worth the read. She's turned the Fae into something completely new, and I love the twist.

The second book Spells is on hold at the library now. I can't wait to get my hands on it.

Celebrating To Kill a Mockingbird

How I missed this, I don't know. I just read an article in my Writer's Magazine about this year being the 50th anniversary of Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird.

I loved this book from the moment we picked it up my sophomore year. Scout wasn't like me, I'm not a tomboy, I'm not even all that adventurous. But I found something in her that resonated with me. I found a piece of all the characters in me. The quiet stand for the truth no matter how hard it is part of Atticus. The uncomfortable, but longing for normality bits of Boo Radley. Every character had something I could identify with - whether it was because I felt it in me already, or I wished I could count that as one of my strengths. Then there was the anger at injustice and depravity of those who were close minded and prejudiced. To Kill a Mockingbird made me open my eyes and see the world in a new way. Much like Scout, I found that there is a world that is outside of me and my immediate life. It's bigger and scarier and more confounding than I could have imagined. I grew as much as Scout and Jem did through the story and I felt like a different person when I read the last page. How many books can you say did that for you?

50 years and it's still impacting every reader and inspiring a new generation of writers. It has a permanent residency among my classics and most loved books. Right next to Shakespeare and Jane Austen. The shelves that I've sworn to never clear to make room for newer books.

I know it's easily one of the most beloved American classics and yet, this is the first I've heard of the anniversary or any special events surrounding it. How sad. I couldn't let that pass, so here is a link to the official calender of events.

Spread the word and celebrate one of the greatest American works of fiction ever. Better yet, tell me and your friends how it changed your life.

How has To Kill a Mockingbird affected you? Share your story on Twitter #TKAM

CFBA: The Gathering Storm by Brock and Bodie Thoene

Song Stuck on the Brain: Step Into the Light by Jason Watson

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:






The Gathering Storm

Summerside Press (August 1, 2010)






by




Bodie and Brock Thoene



MY TAKE:

I've been a fan of the Thoene's since the 6th grade. A church friend turned my family on to the Zion Chronicles series. All of us took turns staying up half the night to finish reading each book so we could pass it on to the next family member anxiously waiting their turn. We spent weeks discussing the books, the history, the real emotions and connections of the stories. We all fell in love with the authors. My dad and I especially.

I'd always had a strong interest in the WWII era, but it didn't feel REAL until I read the Thoene's books. That's when it came to life for me. When I saw that they had a new series releasing, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it.

The Gathering Storm was like finding a long lost friend that you hadn't realized you were even missing. Even though I know how talented the writers are, it wasn't until I picked it up and sunk into the story that I remembered their voices and how they drew me in. It's not just the era, as powerful a time in history as it is, it's the people. The characters come alive. Full fleshed, complete with passion and flaws and fears. I feel the connection as if I could step into their shoes, and yet wonder if in their shoes I'd face their world with the same grace and strength. Ordinary people in un-ordinary times living life extraordinarily.

That's just the historical layer, just one part of the compelling whole. The picture within the bigger frame becomes the love story and the mystery and the timeless nature of Jesus and His gift of eternal love. The Thoene's have found a unique twist in their mystery. The legend of the Lamed Vav was unknown to me, but the mystery behind the Hebrew story of the 36 righteous ones hooked me instantly. The number 36 is interwoven through the whole story so effortlessly and in so many unique ways. Maybe it's because I have a fascination of sorts with numbers, but I find it amazing how well it was connected. Especially in the romance and poetry. To create such romance, passion and beauty in multiple poems using only 36 words - amazing. It's not hard to imagine that anyone that can write passion and true love that well, writes it from experience as soul mates.

In the end, I set the book down and felt a little wistful. Not just because the story was over and now I have to wait for the next book, but because of my dad. It's been nearly 10 months since my father died. This isn't the first time, and I'm sure it won't be the last, that I've wished I could sit down and discuss something with Dad that I know he would have loved or been fascinated by. But today, I set the book down and had the strongest desire to share the intricacies of the story and discuss it all with Dad. He would have loved it just as much as I did. That alone adds a little something special to the book. Maybe in some way I shared it with him in spirit, if not in person.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

As Nazi forces tighten the noose, Loralei Kepler, daughter of a German resistance leader, must flee her beloved Germany. But is any place safe from Adolf Hitler's evil grasp? Loralei's harrowing flight leads her into the arms of needy child refugees, who have sacrificed everything in exchange for their lives, and toward a mysterious figure, who closely guards an age-old secret.

Explore the romance, the passion, and the danger of the most anticipated series of the last twenty years.

Born from the highly acclaimed and best-loved novels of three generations of readers -- The Zion Covenant series and The Zion Chronicles series -- Zion Diaries ventures into the lives of the inspiring and intriguing characters who loved intensely, stood up for what was right, and fought boldly during Hitler's rise to power and the dark days of World War II.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Gathering Storm, go HERE



ABOUT THE AUTHORS:



Bodie and Brock Thoene (pronounced Tay-nee) have written over 50 works of historical fiction. Over twenty million of these best-selling novels are in print. Eight ECPA Gold Medallion Awards affirms what millions of readers have already discovered—the Thoenes are not only master stylists but experts at capturing readers’ minds and hearts.

Bodie began her writing career as a teen journalist for her local newspaper. Eventually her byline appeared in prestigious periodicals such as U.S. News and World Report, The American West, and The Saturday Evening Post. She also worked for John Wayne’s Batjac Productions (she’s best known as author of The Fall Guy) and ABC Circle Films as a writer and researcher. John Wayne described her as “a writer with talent that captures the people and the times!” She has degrees in journalism and communications.

Brock has often been described by Bodie as “an essential half of this writing team.” With degrees in both history and education, Brock has, in his role as researcher and story-line consultant, added the vital dimension of historical accuracy. Due to such careful research, The Zion Covenant and The Zion Chronicles series are recognized by the American Library Association, as well as Zionist libraries around the world, as classic historical novels and are used to teach history in college classrooms.

Bodie and Brock have four grown children—Rachel, Jake, Luke, and Ellie—and seven grandchildren. Their sons, Jake and Luke, are carrying on the Thoene family talent as the next generation of writers, and Luke produces the Thoene audiobooks.

Bodie and Brock divide their time between London and Nevada.

CFBA: Fatal Loyalty by Sue Duffy

Song Stuck on the Brain: Honor To Us All - Mulan

Watched the movie this morning with my honorary nieces. I've been singing it all day.

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:


Fatal LoyaltyKregel Publications (April 23, 2010)


by


Sue Duffy




MY TAKE:

Sue's book hooked me right away. The plot is unique and compelling and the characters are so well formed. Agent Vic cracked me up, I love the idea of a semi-retired agent whose house boarders on hording and she lives in crazy house dresses, yet still has the grit to whip out her gun and take down the bad guys. All with heart and Christian insight too. And she's not even the main character.

In addition to great characters, her description of Florida was great. I've never been south of Mississippi, so it was like taking the ultimate vacation and reading a great suspense at the same time. I could see the colors and the crazy characters, smell the flowers and breathe the muggy air. It was so real. Great read.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

Where do you run when you know you cannot hide?

Andie Ryborg has nowhere else to go. Her father's campaign for governor and his aggressive war on drugs has chased her from their family home. Drawn to Miami's exotic Coconut Grove, Andie hopes to find a quiet refuge where she can discover herself apart from the public eye. But even in that seclusion, even with an officer assigned to protect her, Andie's privacy has been violated. Someone is watching

Evan Markham's entire life has been a tug-of-war between what is and what could be. He is drawn to a life that is beyond his reach and emotions have clouded his judgment. Evan knows that earning someone's trust isn't easy, especially when he plans to break it. But in the secret corridors of the criminal underworld, he knows what must be done, and he is determined to see it through. Whatever the cost

When enemies close in, a sudden turn of events leaves them both questioning. Where is God in all of this? Who is this enigmatic stranger who offers to help? They both know their lives are in danger. But what about their hearts?

If you would like to read the Prologue of Fatal Loyalty, go HERE.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sue Duffy is an award-winning writer whose work has appeared in Moody magazine, The Presbyterian Journal, Sunday Digest, and The Christian Reader. Her first novel Mortal Wounds was published in 2001 and she has also contributed to Stories for a Woman’s Heart (Multnomah). She and her husband, Mike, have three grown children. Find out more at http://www.sueduffybooks.com/

CFBA: Twilight's Serenade by Tracie Peterson

Song Stuck on the Brain: Hear You Me by Jimmy Eat World

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:

Twilight's SerenadeBethany House (August 1, 2010)

by
Tracie Peterson

MY TAKE:

I enjoyed Twilight Serenade a lot. Maybe because I felt like I could identify with Britta in some ways, even though I don't play an instrument and I haven't been secretly in love with someone for 17 years. Her character though, felt like a reflection somehow of me and I found that appealing. Her struggle with choices and balancing her own desires with God's will and the wants of those around her was real and compelling. But her ability to love was inspiring. Seeing that love save those around her was a beautiful experience.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Britta Lindquist left Sitka six years ago in an attempt to distance herself from the love of her life, Yuri Belikov. Upon her return, she finds Yuri absent and his wife about to deliver a child. When tragic circumstances ensue, Britta suddenly finds herself caring for Yuri's children--and her life intertwining with the man she's tried so hard to forget.

But Britta's other great love is for the violin, and her talent is recognized by Brenton Maltese, a conductor from England. He proposes she accept the coveted first chair position in his orchestra...and also his hand in marriage. At a crossroads, Britta must determine what her heart truly longs for--and if she's willing to fight for it.

At a Crossroads, Britta must determine what her heart truly longs for─and if she's willing to fight for it.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Twilight's Serenade, go HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 85 novels.

She received her first book contract in November, 1992 and saw A Place To Belong published in February 1993 with Barbour Publishings' Heartsong Presents. She wrote exclusively with Heartsong for the next two years, receiving their readership's vote for Favorite Author of the Year for three years in a row.

In December, 1995 she signed a contract with Bethany House Publishers to co-write a series with author Judith Pella. Tracie now writes exclusively for Bethany House Publishers.

She teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research.

Tracie was awarded the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for 2007 Inspirational Fiction and her books have won numerous awards for favorite books in a variety of contests.

Making her home in Montana, this Kansas native enjoys spending time with family--especially her three grandchildren--Rainy, Fox and Max. She's active in her church as the Director of Women's Ministries, coordinates a yearly writer's retreat for published authors, and travels, as time permits, to research her books