In keeping with the silly crazy stuff that's been floating like Styrofoam flotsam on my brain, I saw this video on Kaye Dacus blog. She found it on Jenny B. Jones blog. It's hysterical and must be shared. I'm so glad to know I'm not the only one feeling a little silly today.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Sillyness - It's contagious
Song Stuck on the Brain: What isn't stuck today? LF Syndrome is in high gear. I feel like someone took the rack of songs in my head and spun it so hard random songs are flying out left and right. I woke up singing Adele's Set Fire to the Rain, since then I've sung multiple odds and ends. Most recently the Tigger song... The most wonderful thing about Tiggers, are Tiggers are wonderful things... That of course led to... Winnie the Pooh, Winnie the Pooh, Chubby little cubby all stuffed with fluff...
In keeping with the silly crazy stuff that's been floating like Styrofoam flotsam on my brain, I saw this video on Kaye Dacus blog. She found it on Jenny B. Jones blog. It's hysterical and must be shared. I'm so glad to know I'm not the only one feeling a little silly today.
In keeping with the silly crazy stuff that's been floating like Styrofoam flotsam on my brain, I saw this video on Kaye Dacus blog. She found it on Jenny B. Jones blog. It's hysterical and must be shared. I'm so glad to know I'm not the only one feeling a little silly today.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
The Orphan King by Sigmund Brouwer
Today I'm reviewing for Waterbrook Multnomah.
MY TAKE:
I'm a huge fan of anything Merlin or King Arthur related, so when I saw a new series for young adults featuring the famous legend I had to read it.
Merlin and Arthur aren't presented in book one, instead it's the story of a young man denied his birthright that is set on a mission to become the hero he was born to be. Along the way he gathers a band of friends to join him in his mission. Whether friends or foes isn't always evident and it's the mystery and journey of a hero that makes the book addictive and irresistible. Loved it, can't wait for book two.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The future of the Immortals is in the hands of an orphan
My greatest fear was that they would find us and make of us a sacrifice beneath a full moon. Now you, Thomas, must help us destroy the circle of evil.
The last words of a dying woman would change the life of young Thomas. Raised behind monastery walls, he knows nothing of his mysterious past or imminent destiny. But now, in the heart of medieval England, a darkness threatens to strangle truth. An ancient order tightens their ghostly grip on power, creating fear and exiling those who would oppose them. Thomas is determined fulfill his calling and bring light into the mysterious world of the Druids and leaves the monastery on an important quest.
Thomas quickly finds himself in unfamiliar territory, as he must put his faith in unusual companions—a cryptic knight, a child thief, and the beautiful, silent woman whom may not be all she seems. From the solitary life of an orphan, Thomas now finds himself tangled in the roots of both camaraderie and suspicion.
Can he trust those who would join his battle…or will his fears force him to go on alone?
Get a sneak peek and read the first chapter HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sigmund Brouwer is not only the acclaimed author of over 40 books that include several children’s series, he is also an inspirational speaker and co-founder of The Young Writer’s Institute. He has written fiction novels such as Blood Ties, Double Helix and The Weeping Chamber, as well as a non-fiction book, Can the Real Jesus Still be Found? part of his Truth is Out There series. Brouwer has a number of series targeting the 9-15 age bracket. His background briefly playing semi-pro hockey and his interest in sports serve as an ideal framework for his Lightning on Ice and Short Cuts series. Other series include: Watch Out for Joel, The Accidental Detectives, Mars Diaries, Winds of Light, Cyber Quest, Sports Mystery Series, and Bug’s Eye View. Upcoming releases from Brouwer include installments in the Nick Barrett Mystery Series and Degrees of Guilt series.
In addition to writing a vast number of books captivating enough to get children to read Sigmund Brouwer also approaches his writing from a different angle than is seen in most books. Many of his stories are written in the first person format, telling the story only through the main character’s point of view. This point of view is naturally restricting, yet Brouwer deals with the restrictions seemingly without a problem.
His work has been esteemed in Library Journal and Booklist; he has also received the Alberta Film and Literary Writing Grant twice. His articles have been published in Canadian and U.S. publications. Brouwer has made appearances on the Dick Staub Show, 100 Huntley Street, Home Network, Moody Radio and other Christian radio shows across the country.
Sigmund Brouwer is married to Christian recording artist, Cindy Morgan. They live in both Brouwer’s hometown of Red Deer and Nashville. They have a daughter, Morgan Olivia.
You can visit Sigmund Brouwer on Facebook.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
by
MY TAKE:
I'm a huge fan of anything Merlin or King Arthur related, so when I saw a new series for young adults featuring the famous legend I had to read it.
Merlin and Arthur aren't presented in book one, instead it's the story of a young man denied his birthright that is set on a mission to become the hero he was born to be. Along the way he gathers a band of friends to join him in his mission. Whether friends or foes isn't always evident and it's the mystery and journey of a hero that makes the book addictive and irresistible. Loved it, can't wait for book two.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The future of the Immortals is in the hands of an orphan
My greatest fear was that they would find us and make of us a sacrifice beneath a full moon. Now you, Thomas, must help us destroy the circle of evil.
The last words of a dying woman would change the life of young Thomas. Raised behind monastery walls, he knows nothing of his mysterious past or imminent destiny. But now, in the heart of medieval England, a darkness threatens to strangle truth. An ancient order tightens their ghostly grip on power, creating fear and exiling those who would oppose them. Thomas is determined fulfill his calling and bring light into the mysterious world of the Druids and leaves the monastery on an important quest.
Thomas quickly finds himself in unfamiliar territory, as he must put his faith in unusual companions—a cryptic knight, a child thief, and the beautiful, silent woman whom may not be all she seems. From the solitary life of an orphan, Thomas now finds himself tangled in the roots of both camaraderie and suspicion.
Can he trust those who would join his battle…or will his fears force him to go on alone?
Get a sneak peek and read the first chapter HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sigmund Brouwer is not only the acclaimed author of over 40 books that include several children’s series, he is also an inspirational speaker and co-founder of The Young Writer’s Institute. He has written fiction novels such as Blood Ties, Double Helix and The Weeping Chamber, as well as a non-fiction book, Can the Real Jesus Still be Found? part of his Truth is Out There series. Brouwer has a number of series targeting the 9-15 age bracket. His background briefly playing semi-pro hockey and his interest in sports serve as an ideal framework for his Lightning on Ice and Short Cuts series. Other series include: Watch Out for Joel, The Accidental Detectives, Mars Diaries, Winds of Light, Cyber Quest, Sports Mystery Series, and Bug’s Eye View. Upcoming releases from Brouwer include installments in the Nick Barrett Mystery Series and Degrees of Guilt series. In addition to writing a vast number of books captivating enough to get children to read Sigmund Brouwer also approaches his writing from a different angle than is seen in most books. Many of his stories are written in the first person format, telling the story only through the main character’s point of view. This point of view is naturally restricting, yet Brouwer deals with the restrictions seemingly without a problem.
His work has been esteemed in Library Journal and Booklist; he has also received the Alberta Film and Literary Writing Grant twice. His articles have been published in Canadian and U.S. publications. Brouwer has made appearances on the Dick Staub Show, 100 Huntley Street, Home Network, Moody Radio and other Christian radio shows across the country.
Sigmund Brouwer is married to Christian recording artist, Cindy Morgan. They live in both Brouwer’s hometown of Red Deer and Nashville. They have a daughter, Morgan Olivia.
You can visit Sigmund Brouwer on Facebook.
Information courtesy of Harvest House Publishers.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
Kregel's Mortal Fire by C.F. Dunn
Today I'm touring a book on behalf of Kregel Publishing:
MY TAKE:
I am so excited about this new series! Mortal Fire is kind of the intellectuals' turn at Twilight. I say that with all respect for Stephanie Meyers' series, I love Twilight. It's not that Twilight isn't intelligent, but the setting and characters for this series are older and more academic.
Emma is quiet, private and obsessed with a a very unusual part of history - torture, all kinds throughout history and how it's affects have touched humanity. Although a gruesome subject, Emma sees it differently and her unique research has led her to the states to teach and study a diary. Emma's sheltered academic walls of safety begin to crumble when the evil she studies intellectually becomes real on the campus.
Then there is the handsome doctor Matthew Lyons. She's drawn to him despite her efforts to avoid romantic entanglements. He's unexplainable and always there to protect her. In fact he begins to seem more than human.
I love the mix of academia, mystery, faith and dare I say, possibly a little of the supernatural? I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down. I read half the night and couldn't wait to pick it up the next morning. C.F. Dunn has you speeding through the pages all the way to the ending that makes you say, "WHAT?!"
Don't worry, there's a second book coming and there is a preview in the back of the book, which may have just saved my sanity. Fantastic start for a very promising author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
First book in a new series from an author to watch.
Twenty-nine-year-old, independent, and self-assured Cambridge history professor Emma D'Eresby has one obsession in life: the curious journal of a seventeenth-century Englishman, a portion of which was left to her by her late grandfather.
When an unexpected opportunity to study the journal in its entirety presents itself, Emma finds herself leaving Cambridge to take up a year-long position at a prestigious university in Maine. Anticipating a quiet year of research, Emma quickly discovers her work impeded by a range of unforeseen complications. From the start, there is the well-intentioned matchmaking of her vivacious Russian colleague, Elena Smalova, and the unexpected jailing of one of her post-graduate students. More troublesome, however, are the unsolved, brutal night attacks on women near the university and Emma's suspicion that they might be linked to the sinister English professor, Kort Staahl. But, most diverting and disconcerting of all, is Emma's growing attraction to the strikingly handsome Dr. Matthew Lyons, whose kind but deliberately distant demeanor puzzles her.
Suspense and dread mount when Kort begins to take a persistent and unsettling interest in Emma. What are Kort's intentions, and what is he capable of? And the mystery surrounding Matthew only deepens when Emma discovers a link between him and the journal. What is Matthew trying to hide?
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Check out C.F. Dunn on Facebook at Mortal Fire Secret of the Journal
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
C. F. Dunn creates romantic thrillers with a historical twist, drawing on a degree in history and a career in literacy development. She is blessed with a historian husband, two creative daughters and a quirky Corgi called Stig and she divides her time between running her specialist school in Kent, and writing in Cornwall. Her books can be found at www.kregel.com and http://www.cfdunn.co.uk/.
I recieved this book free from Kregel ( lucky ME!) in return for my honest opinion.
by
MY TAKE:
 |
| Author C.F. Dunn |
Emma is quiet, private and obsessed with a a very unusual part of history - torture, all kinds throughout history and how it's affects have touched humanity. Although a gruesome subject, Emma sees it differently and her unique research has led her to the states to teach and study a diary. Emma's sheltered academic walls of safety begin to crumble when the evil she studies intellectually becomes real on the campus.
Then there is the handsome doctor Matthew Lyons. She's drawn to him despite her efforts to avoid romantic entanglements. He's unexplainable and always there to protect her. In fact he begins to seem more than human.
I love the mix of academia, mystery, faith and dare I say, possibly a little of the supernatural? I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down. I read half the night and couldn't wait to pick it up the next morning. C.F. Dunn has you speeding through the pages all the way to the ending that makes you say, "WHAT?!"
Don't worry, there's a second book coming and there is a preview in the back of the book, which may have just saved my sanity. Fantastic start for a very promising author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
First book in a new series from an author to watch.Twenty-nine-year-old, independent, and self-assured Cambridge history professor Emma D'Eresby has one obsession in life: the curious journal of a seventeenth-century Englishman, a portion of which was left to her by her late grandfather.
When an unexpected opportunity to study the journal in its entirety presents itself, Emma finds herself leaving Cambridge to take up a year-long position at a prestigious university in Maine. Anticipating a quiet year of research, Emma quickly discovers her work impeded by a range of unforeseen complications. From the start, there is the well-intentioned matchmaking of her vivacious Russian colleague, Elena Smalova, and the unexpected jailing of one of her post-graduate students. More troublesome, however, are the unsolved, brutal night attacks on women near the university and Emma's suspicion that they might be linked to the sinister English professor, Kort Staahl. But, most diverting and disconcerting of all, is Emma's growing attraction to the strikingly handsome Dr. Matthew Lyons, whose kind but deliberately distant demeanor puzzles her.
Suspense and dread mount when Kort begins to take a persistent and unsettling interest in Emma. What are Kort's intentions, and what is he capable of? And the mystery surrounding Matthew only deepens when Emma discovers a link between him and the journal. What is Matthew trying to hide?
Check out C.F. Dunn on Facebook at Mortal Fire Secret of the Journal
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
C. F. Dunn creates romantic thrillers with a historical twist, drawing on a degree in history and a career in literacy development. She is blessed with a historian husband, two creative daughters and a quirky Corgi called Stig and she divides her time between running her specialist school in Kent, and writing in Cornwall. Her books can be found at www.kregel.com and http://www.cfdunn.co.uk/.
I recieved this book free from Kregel ( lucky ME!) in return for my honest opinion.
CFBA: A Heartbeat Away by Harry Kraus
Song Stuck on the Brain: I Think We're Alone Now by Tiffany
MY TAKE:
I love medical mysteries. I've always been drawn to the science behind the mystery of the human body, so to combine the two makes for twice the fun. Harry Kraus took a really unique occurence in transplant medicine called cellular memory, and built a fantastic mystery around it. Captivating images and emotions pull you into the book as strongly as the intrigue. Loved it.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When a brilliant surgeon undergoes a heart transplant, her life transforms as she begins experiencing memories of a murder she never witnessed.The residents worship her. Nurses step out of her way. Her colleagues respect and sometimes even fear her. But surgeon Tori Taylor never expected to end up on this side of the operating table.
Now she has a new heart. This life that was formerly controlled and predictable is now chaotic. Dr. Taylor had famously protected herself from love or commitment, but her walls are beginning to crumble.
And strangest of all, memories surface that will take her on a journey out of the operating room and into a murder investigation.
Where there once was a heart of stone, there is a heart of flesh. And there is no going back.
If you'd like to read the first chapter excerpt of A Heartbeat Away, go HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A Word from Harry:I started writing my first novel during my last year of surgery training at UK. I was a chief resident, and started writing Stainless Steal Hearts in a call room at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Lexington. It was a crazy time to write! I had a very demanding schedule, often spending days and nights in the hospital. I had two sons at that time, and I recognized the wisdom in my wife's urging: "Now doesn't seem the right time for this dream."
My experience as a writer is far from typical. Having received my formal training in biology and chemistry and medicine, my only preparation for a writing career was a love for reading. The longest thing I'd written before my first novel was a term paper in undergraduate school. My first novel was accepted by Crossway Books and published in 1994, and it wasn't until after I had FOUR published novels that I even opened a book of instruction about the craft of writing fiction. This is not what I recommend to others! Yes, I was successful, but I was bending the "rules" without knowing it. I had a natural talent for plotting, but I realize my initial success may have stunted my growth as a writer. I'd have made faster progress if I'd have gone to the fiction teachers sooner.
I have three sons: Joel, Evan, and Samuel. Look closely in all of my books and you'll see them there. My lovely wife, Kris, provides the basic composition for all those beautiful, athletic, dedicated women in my novels.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
CFBA: Unending Devotion by Jody Hedlund
Song Stuck on the Brain: A Heartful of Love from Les Mis
MY TAKE:
Lily is a strong willed and determined young orphan who is on a mission. A mission to save her sister has led her to fight prostitution and saloons everywhere. What I appreciated most about Lily is that as her heart opens up to love she begins to see that temptation is universal. Because of that recognition it makes her determination to stay pure and fight temptation, to fight for her reputation all the more captivating. She starts out as an oppionated girl, and becomes a mature, spiritually deeper woman in the end. The story is as much her personal journey in faith as it is a very beautiful love story. Well drawn characters are icing on the cake. Villians you clench your teeth over, supporting cast that make you laugh and cheer. Great read.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
High-Stakes Drama Meets High-Tension RomanceIn 1883 Michigan, Lily Young is on a mission to save her lost sister, or die trying. Heedless of the danger, her searches of logging camps lead her to Harrison and into the sights of Connell McCormick, a man doing his best to add to the hard-earned fortunes of his lumber baron father.
Posing during the day as a photographer's assistant, Lily can't understand why any God-fearing citizen would allow evil to persist and why men like Connell McCormick turn a blind eye to the crime rampant in the town. But Connell is boss-man of three of his father's lumber camps in the area, and like most of the other men, he's interested in clearing the pine and earning a profit. He figures as long as he's living an upright life, that's what matters.
Lily challenges everything he thought he knew, and together they work not only to save her sister but to put an end to the corruption that's dominated Harrison for so long.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Unending Devotion, go HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Her first published book, The Preacher’s Bride (2010 Bethany House Publishers), became a best seller and has won multiple awards.
Her second book, The Doctor’s Lady, released in September of 2011, and her third book, Unending Devotion, is out now. She’s currently busy researching and writing another book!
Jody has been married for twenty years to her college sweetheart. Jody has five children ranging in ages from 15 to 6, with a set of twin daughters in the mix to make things more lively.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
The Blue Door by Christa Kinde
Song Stuck on the Brain: Eternal Flame by The Bangles. Apparently I'm now sound tracking my dreams. This one played as a background track in a dream the other night and I woke up singing it. It's been stuck for 2 days straight now, this may be a record.
MY TAKE:
In addition to having a fantastic cover, Christa Kinde has introduced a group of characters that will soon become your friends. The story is definitely written with a younger audience in mind, which is fine since that's how it is being marketed. I generally find that this genre can be read and enjoyed by any age if it's a genre you enjoy, this one definitely felt young to me though, so keep that in mind as you read.
Prissy's gift is introduced in this first book of the series, but the real meat of good vs. evil and the real challenge she'll face isn't presented clearly at all. However this is a series and the book does end in a pretty good cliffhanger, so I imagine they are leading into that more in the book 2. Or at least I hope they are.
Fantasy is very popular right now, and I'm a fan. I review a lot of SciFi/Fantasy novels. And I'm a Twilight fan too. Angels have kind of gained pop culture status, like vampires and werewolves and with that in mind, there are a lot of stories out there that present angels in all kinds of light and variety, not always good. Keeping in mind this is a Christian novel, they're presented positively, but I can't help but feel like it's a way to keep up with what's cool. I absolutely believe angels are real and still minister among us today under the direction and power of Jesus Christ. The angel Moroni appeared to Joseph Smith Jr. to bring God's message of his calling and to tell him about the Book of Mormon; and Angel ministry has a strong history in the restored church and among others as well. Also, I'm sure Angel's missions are varied and unknown to many. As Hebrews 13:2 says, " Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
I'd want to make sure that any reader, especially young readers, understand that Angels aren't fictional supernatural beings as the world would show, but real beings from God's realm that testify of Jesus Christ and the truth of His gospel.
Keeping those things in mind, enjoy the novel and keep an eye out for it's sequel.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The first in a new series about 14-year-old Priscilla Pomeroy, who has the ability to see angels hidden among us, as well as the blue door that leads to the spiritual/heavenly realms. As we meet her and other characters, including behind-the-scenes angels, we learn that there is a reason Prissy can see these things, and she is a key player in a spiritual war unfolding around her.
ZonderKidz launches an exciting supernatural series for kids 11 and up. The Blue Door, the first book in The Threshold Series, introduces Prissie Pomeroy, a teen who discovers she can see what others cannot: angels all around. Even more startling is the surprising secret she uncovers about people she thought she knew. As she wrestles with this unexpected ability she must come to grips with the spiritual battles surrounding her. Especially when she learns she received this gift because God has a unique role for her in his bigger plan. But if she’s to fulfill it, she’ll need faith like never before.This exciting debut by author Christa Kinde draws on the rapidly growing interest in angel stories, an emerging trend in teen and preteen supernatural novels. Boys and girls alike will appreciate her gifted storytelling that captures their imagination with things beyond human sight. And parents will appreciate the family-friendly tone and godly messages maintained throughout this intriguing tale of adventure and spiritual warfare.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
An avid reader who took up writing on a whim, Christa Kinde hails from Scandia, Minnesota, a small town on the fringes of the Twin Cities metro area. She attended Northwestern College in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she discovered the glories of singing in Latin, took biblical Greek as a second language, and learned to play a mean game of foosball. Nearly a decade later, she put her dual degrees in English and Bible to practical use. Everyday Living: Bible Life and Times [Thomas Nelson] was soon followed by numerous Bible study guides and workbooks, including award winning titles for Max Lucado and Women of Faith.
Christa and her husband Wayne lived for several years in rural West Michigan, then spent a handful more in Nashville, Tennessee. They’ve thoroughly enjoyed their travels throughout the United States and abroad and currently reside with their five children in San Diego, California. The Threshold Series [Zonderkidz] is Christa’s first fiction publication.
You can follow the author on Twitter @ChristaKinde
I received this ARC from Zondervan's Good Teen Reads for free.
by
MY TAKE:
In addition to having a fantastic cover, Christa Kinde has introduced a group of characters that will soon become your friends. The story is definitely written with a younger audience in mind, which is fine since that's how it is being marketed. I generally find that this genre can be read and enjoyed by any age if it's a genre you enjoy, this one definitely felt young to me though, so keep that in mind as you read.
Prissy's gift is introduced in this first book of the series, but the real meat of good vs. evil and the real challenge she'll face isn't presented clearly at all. However this is a series and the book does end in a pretty good cliffhanger, so I imagine they are leading into that more in the book 2. Or at least I hope they are.
Fantasy is very popular right now, and I'm a fan. I review a lot of SciFi/Fantasy novels. And I'm a Twilight fan too. Angels have kind of gained pop culture status, like vampires and werewolves and with that in mind, there are a lot of stories out there that present angels in all kinds of light and variety, not always good. Keeping in mind this is a Christian novel, they're presented positively, but I can't help but feel like it's a way to keep up with what's cool. I absolutely believe angels are real and still minister among us today under the direction and power of Jesus Christ. The angel Moroni appeared to Joseph Smith Jr. to bring God's message of his calling and to tell him about the Book of Mormon; and Angel ministry has a strong history in the restored church and among others as well. Also, I'm sure Angel's missions are varied and unknown to many. As Hebrews 13:2 says, " Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
I'd want to make sure that any reader, especially young readers, understand that Angels aren't fictional supernatural beings as the world would show, but real beings from God's realm that testify of Jesus Christ and the truth of His gospel.
Keeping those things in mind, enjoy the novel and keep an eye out for it's sequel.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The first in a new series about 14-year-old Priscilla Pomeroy, who has the ability to see angels hidden among us, as well as the blue door that leads to the spiritual/heavenly realms. As we meet her and other characters, including behind-the-scenes angels, we learn that there is a reason Prissy can see these things, and she is a key player in a spiritual war unfolding around her.
ZonderKidz launches an exciting supernatural series for kids 11 and up. The Blue Door, the first book in The Threshold Series, introduces Prissie Pomeroy, a teen who discovers she can see what others cannot: angels all around. Even more startling is the surprising secret she uncovers about people she thought she knew. As she wrestles with this unexpected ability she must come to grips with the spiritual battles surrounding her. Especially when she learns she received this gift because God has a unique role for her in his bigger plan. But if she’s to fulfill it, she’ll need faith like never before.This exciting debut by author Christa Kinde draws on the rapidly growing interest in angel stories, an emerging trend in teen and preteen supernatural novels. Boys and girls alike will appreciate her gifted storytelling that captures their imagination with things beyond human sight. And parents will appreciate the family-friendly tone and godly messages maintained throughout this intriguing tale of adventure and spiritual warfare.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
An avid reader who took up writing on a whim, Christa Kinde hails from Scandia, Minnesota, a small town on the fringes of the Twin Cities metro area. She attended Northwestern College in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she discovered the glories of singing in Latin, took biblical Greek as a second language, and learned to play a mean game of foosball. Nearly a decade later, she put her dual degrees in English and Bible to practical use. Everyday Living: Bible Life and Times [Thomas Nelson] was soon followed by numerous Bible study guides and workbooks, including award winning titles for Max Lucado and Women of Faith.
Christa and her husband Wayne lived for several years in rural West Michigan, then spent a handful more in Nashville, Tennessee. They’ve thoroughly enjoyed their travels throughout the United States and abroad and currently reside with their five children in San Diego, California. The Threshold Series [Zonderkidz] is Christa’s first fiction publication.
You can follow the author on Twitter @ChristaKinde
I received this ARC from Zondervan's Good Teen Reads for free.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Fairest Beauty has a Beautiful Trailor
I just saw Melanie Dickerson's new book trailer and it was Awesome! Her latest and 3 book is Fairest Beauty. If you aren't familiar with her work yet, you should check out her website, her books have been collecting fans of all ages.
Learn more about Melanie Dickerson and her fabulous books at: http://melaniedickerson.com/
Read her blog at: http://www.melaniewrites.blogspot.com/ Or Follow her on Facebook at: Melanie Dickerson Books
Friday, September 07, 2012
Follow the Heart Cover Reveal Scavenger Hunt
Shiver me timbers! There's treasure to be had, Mateys, but first you must follow the Scavenger Hunt map!
Kaye Dacus is hosting a Cover Reveal Scavenger Hunt across the blogosphere with booty every book lover can appreciate - you could win one of FIVE signed copies of Follow the Heart when it releases in May 2013.
About the Book:
Kate Dearing’s life is turned upside down when her father loses everything in a railroad land speculation and she and her brother are shipped off to their mother’s brother, Sir Anthony, in England with one edict: marry money.
Meet the Author:
Kaye Dacus is hosting a Cover Reveal Scavenger Hunt across the blogosphere with booty every book lover can appreciate - you could win one of FIVE signed copies of Follow the Heart when it releases in May 2013.
Follow the Heart
Book 1 in The Great Exhibition Series -
Coming from B&H Publishing in May 2013
by
About the Book:
Kate Dearing’s life is turned upside down when her father loses everything in a railroad land speculation and she and her brother are shipped off to their mother’s brother, Sir Anthony, in England with one edict: marry money.
Though their uncle tries to ensure Kate finds matrimonial prospects only among the highest echelon of British society, her attentions stray to the one of the least eligible people at her uncle’s home—the garden designer.
Trying to push her feelings for the handsome—but not wealthy—man aside, Kate’s prospects brighten when a friend of Sir Anthony’s, a wealthy viscount, shows favorable interest in her. But will marrying for the financial security of her family be the right thing to do, when her heart is telling her she’s making a mistake?
Mandates . . . money . . . matrimony. Who will follow the heart?
Meet the Author:
Humor, Hope, and Happily Ever Afters! Kaye Dacus is the author of humorous, hope-filled contemporary and historical romances. She holds a Master of Arts in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University, is a former Vice President of American Christian Fiction Writers, and currently serves as President of Middle Tennessee Christian Writers. Kaye lives in Nashville, Tennessee, and even though she writes romance novels, she is not afraid to admit that she’s never been kissed.
Directions:
Each participating blog has both an answer and a question—but the answers and questions aren’t on the same blog. DON’T POST YOUR ANSWERS HERE! Collect the questions and answers in an e-mail—along with the address of the site where you found each—to be sent to Kaye Dacus once you’re confident you have all of them and be entered to win one of FIVE signed copies of Follow the Heart when it releases in May 2013. Visit http://kayedacus.com for the list of participating sites in the scavenger hunt and rules for entering the contest.
Here's what you need from my blog:
Post a comment telling us your what your favorite Kaye Dacus novel is and why.
Then collect the following questions along with my blog address to add to your Treasure List collection.
Question: How many items were on display at the Great Exhibition?
Answer: After reviewing and rejecting dozens of potential designs for the building to house his exhibition, Prince Albert had all but given up. But then he received a rough sketch on a scrap of paper from Joseph Paxton, the man who had designed the state-of-the-art greenhouses at Chatsworth. Prince Albert not only liked the innovative design, but appreciated the fact that the greenhouse design would allow them to build around the existing ancient elms and oaks in Hyde Park instead of cutting them down. Because of its glass-and-iron construction the building came to be known as the Crystal Palace.
Don't forget to list that you found them here on ProjectingA.blogspot, good luck!
For those who'd like to know my answer to the comment question:
I love all Kaye's books so it's hard for me to choose, but my favorite is probably Stand in Groom. Maybe because it was my first, or maybe because I just really identified with Anne, but it will always be special. :)
Wednesday, September 05, 2012
CFBA: Proof by Jordyn Redwood
MY TAKE:
After all the fantastic endorsements attached to this book, I had to wonder if I had anything else to add. Of course praise is always good, and you can never have enough of that kind of endorsement, so I'm tossing in mine to the ever growing list.
Jordyn Redwood's book may be slim in comparison to a lot of the heavy tomes in her genre, but she's definitely not slim on plot or light on suspense. It's obvious from page one that the author knows her stuff, the ebb and flow of the ER and the language unique to it's inhabitants is enticing and understandable. The suspense kicks in on page one with a missing set of keys, although it's only a passing glimpse of what's to come.
DNA testing isn't a new topic, nor is her villain's condition (I won't name it, hate to spoil the fun.) I knew of the condition although I'm not sure how broad a knowledge the public holds on it. What made it even more intriguing was the twist she gave to his already very unique condition and that is what had me guessing to the very end. Even though I was sure I knew the guilty party, I just couldn't explain the DNA problems. As the killer closes in I felt just as frantic and frustrated as those trying to prove his guilt and save Lilly.
As a Christian novel, it gave a unique look at the issues of rape, abortion and the post traumatic stress that often accompanies it, not by presenting the main character as a woman of faith, but as one with no faith that must find something to hold tight to in order to survive. Believer or non-believer we all face a time in our life where our beliefs are held up to a light for examination. A time to decide if what we believe is true or false, a time to decide what and Who to cling to. It kept me captivated to the very last page. I look forward to the rest of the series.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Dr. Lilly Reeves is a young, accomplished ER physician with her whole life ahead of her. But that life instantly changes when she becomes the fifth victim of a serial rapist. Believing it's the only way to recover her reputation and secure peace for herself, Lilly sets out to find--and punish--her assailant. Sporting a mysterious tattoo and unusually colored eyes, the rapist should be easy to identify. He even leaves what police would consider solid evidence. But when Lilly believes she has found him, DNA testing clears him as a suspect. How can she prove he is guilty, if science says he is not?
Endorsements:
“Jordyn Redwood makes quite a splash with her debut novel. PROOF is a hard-edged mix of medical thriller and crime chiller that grabs you on the first page and doesn’t let go until the end. This one will keep you up way past your bedtime.”
—Rick Acker, best-selling author of When the Devil Whistles
“From the very first chapter, the first page even, Jordyn Redwood pulls the reader into a story that won’t let go. PROOF is proof enough for me that Jordyn is the real deal: an author who knows how to weave a tight story, write descriptive, authentic prose, and deal with some pretty hefty issues. I’m a fan!”
—Mike Dellosso, author of Frantic and Rearview (a 7 Hours story)
“Debut novelist Jordyn Redwood has used her experience as an ER and ICU nurse to craft a blend of medical thriller and police procedural with twists and turns to keep fans of either genre turning pages.”
—Richard L. Mabry, MD, author of Lethal Remedy and the Prescription for Trouble series
“A rollercoaster of a story. Jordyn Redwood’s PROOF has everything you could want in a thriller—believable characters, a villain who makes your skin crawl, a touch of humor, and a twisting plot—all bound by fascinating medical and scientific details. What a fabulous debut!”
—Sarah Sundin, award-winning author of the Wings of Glory series
“Jordyn Redwood may be new on the scene, but she writes like a seasoned pro. PROOF is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time with well-drawn characters including a villain I despised and a hero and heroine I rooted for. I thought I would just take a peek at the first chapter and finish the story later. I thought wrong. I read late into the night, lost sleep, and put off my own writing to finish this book. I’m eagerly awaiting Jordyn’s second book and will be first in line to purchase it the day it releases.”
—Lynnette Eason, best-selling author of The Women of Justice series
“I love a great medical thriller and I’m glad to add another author to my list. Jordyn Redwood writes like the medical insider she is. A gripping tale laced with realism, sleep-robbing excitement, and something every reader loves: hope.”
—Harry Kraus, MD, best-selling author of The Six-Liter Club
“PROOF by Jordyn Redwood is a gripping medical thriller written with vivid detail from an author who knows her subject firsthand. A serial rapist is at large in the town—in the hospital, even? Can Lilly trust anyone? Even her closest friend? And just when you think you can relax, the stakes get even higher.”
—Donna Fletcher Crow, author of The Monastery Murders
“Jordyn Redwood’s debut novel is a page-turner with an ingenious premise and solid Christian values. A satisfying read.”
—Frank J. Edwards, Medical Director, Delphi Emergency Physicians,
author of the medical thriller Final Mercy
If you would like to read the first chapter of Proof, go HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jordyn Redwood has served patients and their families for nearly twenty years and currently works as a pediatric ER nurse. As a self-professed medical nerd and trauma junkie, she was drawn to the controlled chaotic environments of critical care and emergency nursing. Her love of teaching developed early and she was among the youngest CPR instructors for the American Red Cross at the age of seventeen. Since then, she has continued to teach advanced resuscitation classes to participants ranging from first responders to MD’s.
Her discovery that she also had a fondness for answering medical questions for authors led to the creation of Redwood’s Medical Edge at http://jordynredwood.com/. This blog is devoted to helping contemporary and historical authors write medically accurate fiction.
Jordyn lives in Colorado with her husband, two daughters, and one crazy hound dog. In her spare time she also enjoys reading her favorite authors, quilting, and cross-stitching.
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