CFBA: Hand-Me-Down Princess by Carol Moncado

Song Stuck on the Brain: Shake it Off by Taylor Swift

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
Hand Me Down Princess CANDID Publications (August 31, 2015)
by
Carol Moncado


MY TAKE:

I've found a new favorite author! If you haven't followed my blog long enough to see me host National Princess Week and National Prince Week, or blather on about my favorite princess and fairy tale books, then let me just catch you up. I love a good Fairy Tale romance come to life - be there magic or not. The Princess by Lori Wick has always been one of my favorites, but Carol Moncado has just taken the tiara with her new book Hand-Me-Down Princess, the first book in The Brides of Belles Montagnes series. 

What started out as a sweet re-imagining of the commoner and the prince arranged marriage (which is enough to get me hooked), quickly ramped up to include a pretty massive royal secret. The surprises were well crafted and believable, I love a good surprise ending. :)  Prince Mal and Jessabelle have an amazingly intricate story to tell with a strong faith filled message underlying it all. 

So now that I'm totally smitten with Prince Mal and hooked on the royal family, I'm anxious to know what happens next. You will be too, so get Winning the Queen's Heart, book 2, available now on Amazon.com to keep the princess party going. It's on my TBR list now.  

Carol's series The Montevaro Monarchy is the trilogy that came first and introduces many of the characters in this new Brides of Belles Montagnes series. You can download the first book, Good Enough for a Princess for free, or download the full three book series as an eBook package here. (These too have been added to my TBR digital stack)

If you love my fellow Missourian author's writing as much as I do, you should also check out her  CANDID Romance series. Finding Mr. Write, book 1, is also free.


 ABOUT THE BOOK

Prince Malachi Van Renssalaer of Mevendia is getting married. The problem? He’s never even met his bride. His father arranged everything, right down to the marriage contract. Malachi swears to himself that he will be nothing like his father in the ways that count - including his fidelity to his wife.

Jessabelle Keller would happily spend her entire life in obscurity, but her father once saved the life of a future king. Before he dies, her father is committed to seeing that king make good on his promise to have one of his sons marry her so she would be taken care of for life.

No sooner than Prince Malachi and Jessabelle return from their honeymoon, they find themselves dealing with both private trauma and the very public drama of groundless accusations from the press. Just as they begin to weave their fragile trust back together, a ghost from the king’s past arrives and threatens everything they’ve ever held dear.

Secrets have a funny way of coming out and this one could rip the faith of the country in their leaders to shreds. Malachi is determined to protect Jessabelle no matter what it takes, but will it ever be enough for her to not feel like a Hand-Me-Down Princess?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Hand Me Down Princess, go HERE.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

When she’s not writing about her imaginary friends, Carol Moncado is hanging out with her husband, four kids, and a dog who weighs less than most hard cover books. She prefers watching NCIS to just about anything, except maybe watching Castle, or Girl Meets World with her kids. She believes peanut butter M&Ms are the perfect food and Dr. Pepper should come in an IV. When not watching her kids – and the dog – race around her big backyard in Southwest Missouri, she’s teaching American Government at a local community college. She’s a founding member and President of MozArks ACFW, category coordinator for First Impressions, blogger at InspyRomance, and represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of The Steve Laube Agency.

CFBA: A Father's Second Chance by Mindy Oberhaus

Song Stuck on the Brain: Cheerleader - the Pentatonix cover

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
A Father's Second Chance Love Inspired (July 21, 2015) by Mindy Oberhaus


MY TAKE: 

I enjoyed Mindy Oberhaus' newest release so much, I submitted a write in vote for A Father's Second Chance in the Romance Category for Goodreads Choice Awards 2015. If that doesn't say it loudly enough, let me try again. I really, really enjoyed this book! lol

Gage is the kind of man women dream of, the fact he is a single dad that is devoted to his girls only adds to the appeal. The relationship that develops between Celeste and Gage is sweet and expected in all the right ways, but that doesn't lessen the appeal or mean there aren't some great little surprises along the way. It's everything a good romance is meant to be, leaving you warm, fuzzy and feeling full of hope at the end. Exactly the way it should. Don't pass this one up.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Businesswoman Celeste Thompson has one goal: to make her restaurant and hotel a success. She doesn't need any distractions, even from handsome contractor Gage Purcell and his two adorable little girls. Besides, single dad Gage is just biding his time before a big job at the mines comes through. But as Celeste's project springs to life, their arguments transform into attraction. Gage isn't looking for romance, especially not with another career-driven woman like his ex-wife. But openhearted Celeste is more than just another work-consumed client. She might just be his happily-ever-after.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Father's Second Chance, go HERE.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the Author: To steal a line from Donny and Marie, I’m a little bit country, a little bit rock-n-roll. I’m trapped in the city, but prefer the country or the mountains.

I love Jesus, my family, and just about anything sweet.

I believe Jesus died for my sins, rose three days later, and will one day return. He has carried me through some of my darkest hours. Without faith in Him, I would be nowhere.

I have a penchant for chocolate, clothes, and shoes. When I’m not penning romance novels, I enjoy cooking, decorating and shopping.

CFBA: Firefly Summer by Kathleen Y'Barbo

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
Firefly Summer Redbud Press (June 23, 2015) by Kathleen Y'Barbo

MY TAKE:

Another romantic hit from Kathleen Y'Barbo. When I see her name, I can guarantee it's going to be worth my time. Firefly Summer didn't disappoint. There are so many layers to this story, each well developed character connecting and interacting; leading each other to find love and forgiveness in so many different ways. It's such a beautiful glimpse of life, with all it's various tragedies, and how God can turn all things for good - often through the touch of another life also seeking healing.  Y'Barbo has done an admirable job weaving a story that focuses on hope. Despite it's heavier undertones, love wins out over tragedy. A truly satisfying endeavor.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A new cowboy romance from award-winning author Kathleen Y'Barbo.

Trey’s biggest challenge isn’t performing surgery…it’s restoring Sessa’s heart!

Artist Sessa Chambers may never recover from losing her prodigal son. Even as she grieves the tragic decisions that led to his death, and left her with a toddler to raise, she’s asked to work on her dream project—restoring carousel horses for the Smithsonian. But she can’t do it on her own…

Dr. Trey Brown can’t pick up a scalpel again. Yes, he acted in self-defense, but the events of that awful night haunt him. He was trained to save lives, not take them. When he goes to the young man’s widowed mother to apologize, she’s not at all what he expected. For one thing, she’s not as alone as he thought—not with the fearsome ladies of the Pies, Books, and Jesus Book Club in her corner. For another, she’s beautiful, and being in her presence is more jolting than any eight-second bronco ride from his former rodeo days. Before he knows it, she’s captured his heart as easily as they capture the fireflies gracing Sessa’s Texas ranch.

How can they overcome their past to embrace a future together?

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

RITA and Carol award nominee Kathleen Y’Barbo is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than forty novels, novellas, and young adult books. In all, more than one million copies of her books are currently in print in the US and abroad, and her books have been translated into Dutch, German, and Spanish, to name a few.

Kathleen is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She holds a BBA from Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School and a certification in Paralegal Studies, and is a former member of the Texas Bar Association’s Paralegal Division.

A tenth-generation Texan, Kathleen Y’Barbo has four children of her own as well as seven bonus kids she gladly inherited when she married her own hero in combat boots (read about their real-life romance here!). Kathleen is proud to be a military wife, even if it did mean giving up her Texas drivers license.

CFBA: The Bones Will Speak by Carrie Stuart Parks

Song Stuck on the Brain: Age of Aquarius by The 5th Dimension. I have NO idea why. :)

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
The Bones Will Speak Thomas Nelson (August 11, 2015) by Carrie Stuart Parks
MY TAKE:

Wow, does Carrie Stuart Parks know how to hook a reader and keep them short of breath!

As a huge fan of shows like Bones, NCIS, CSI:NY, and other numerous crime shows, this book caught my interest right away. As a fan of Brandilyn Collins' Hidden Faces Series and Dee Henderson's O'Malley series, I knew it had big shoes to fill. Parks held her own admirably and I would say the shoe fit.

What more can I say that won't give away too much? I hate to ruin a good suspense! This is book 2 in a series. A Cry from the Dust (A Gwen Marcey Novel Book 1) released in August 2014. I haven't read this one yet, but it has me intrigued, I'll be checking it out for sure. 

There are a lot of crime shows/books these days, but I love those that focus in on the science and forensics. When a book can present the science accurately, in an engaging manner and keep the story at a good pace, you have a winner. Parks did all that and added an extra splash of intensity that sets the bar a little higher for the books to follow. 

ABOUT THE BOOK

A killer with a penchant for torture has taken notice of forensic expert Gwen Marcey . . . and her daughter.
When Gwen Marcey’s dog comes home with a human skull and then leads her to a cabin in the woods near her Montana home, she realizes there’s a serial killer in her community. And when she finds a tortured young girl clinging to life on the cabin floor, she knows this killer is a lunatic.

Yet what unsettles Gwen most is that the victim looks uncannily like her daughter. The search for the torturer leads back in time to a neo-Nazi bombing in Washington state—a bombing with only one connection to Montana: Gwen. The group has a race-not-grace model of salvation . . . and they’ve marked Gwen as a race traitor. When it becomes clear that the killer has a score to settle, Gwen finds herself in a battle against time. She will have to use all of her forensic skills to find the killer before he can carry out his threat to destroy her—and the only family she has left.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Bones Will Speak, go HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Carrie Stuart Parks is an award-winning fine artist and internationally known forensic artist. Along with her husband, Rick, she travels across the US and Canada teaching courses in forensic art to law enforcement as well as civilian participants. She has won numerous awards for career excellence. Carrie is a popular platform speaker, presenting a variety of topics from crime to creativity.

Animals have always been a large part of her life. Her parents, Ned and Evelyn Stuart, started Skeel Kennel Great Pyrenees in 1960. Carrie inherited the kennel and continues with her beloved dogs as both an AKC judge and former president of the Great Pyrenees Club of America. She lives on the same ranch she grew up on in Northern Idaho.

CFBA: Once Upon a Summertime by Melody Carlson

Song Stuck on the Brain: Stars from Les Mis

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
Once Upon a Summertime Revell (June 2, 2015) by Melody Carlson

MY TAKE:

Once Upon a Summertime is a fun, lighthearted romance. It unfolds like the best of Hollywood's chick-flick's - like Maid in Manhattan, Sleepless in Seattle or While You Were Sleeping  - and I mean that in all the best ways.

Anna and Sean are tossed together with a surprise whirlwind of romance, only to learn they can't be a couple because their company prohibits co-workers dating. The premise may seem simple or expected, but the fun of the story is in the journey of their blossoming relationship. It was also fun to get a behind the scenes peek at the hospitality industry. I love a sweet romance and this one proved to be solid gold. I think Sean is my new book hunk. I'm pretty smitten.

Melody Carlson always hits it out of the park, and this is definitely another home run.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Managing the Value Lodge in her hometown was not what Anna Gordon had in mind when she set out in the hospitality industry. But it's a safe choice for a woman whose childhood was anything but stable. Out of the blue, she gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to reinvent herself by moving to New York City, where she hopes for a management position at a stylish new boutique hotel. The big city is full of surprises--not the least of which is Sean O'Neil. Her childhood crush has applied for the very same position!

Sweet, romantic, and endlessly entertaining, this romp through the storied streets of New York City will enchant readers. Melody Carlson has created characters so charming that readers will long to meet them in the lobby of the stunning Rothsberg Hotel.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Once Upon a Summertime, go HERE.




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

My husband Chris and I live in a cabin-style home next to the National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Mountain area of the Pacific Northwest. Our two grown sons and granddaughter live nearby and we try to see them as often as we can. We also have two 're-homed' pets to make life more interesting-our yellow Labrador retriever Audrey and a Maine coon cat named Harry.

My writing studio is in a separate building next to our courtyard (a garden area that's off limits to the voracious deer). The window behind my desk looks out into the Ponderosa pine forest, where I see deer, squirrels, rabbits, and an occasional raccoon. The other windows in my office overlook the courtyard which is frequented by numerous hummingbirds in the summertime-one August evening we counted nearly fifty of the little hummers.

CFBA: The Midwife's Tale by Delia Parr

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
The Midwife’s Tale Bethany House Publishers (June 2, 2015) by Delia Parr


MY TAKE: 

This wonderful book, was not what I expected. Although not heavily marketed as a romance, romance is what I expected. What I found was a delightful story full of mystery, excitement and drama. The romance is lovely, but feels almost secondary to the real story - the discovery Martha Cade makes about herself as a middle aged widow and mother. What a great journey of discovery! She's strong and sassy and independent, but discovers as much of a blessing those traits are, there are times to be weak and humble and dependent on others. It may seem like a common theme, but the story is anything but common.

One of the things I enjoyed most about the story, could also be the one I should caution other readers about the most. Martha is a Midwife and delivers many babies in the story. I find the practice as well as naturopathic medicine really interesting, so it was great to see the research the author had applied. The deliveries are VERY realistic. To the point of describing them in detail using proper anatomical terms. Although I didn't find the use offensive in it's context, reading the word "vulva" in a Christian Romance novel did surprise me! lol. :) I think the author was extremely tasteful in her language and everything was clinical, but because I know there are a small number who would want to know this before reading it themselves, or giving it to a younger reader, I choose to share it here.

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed The Midwife's Tale. Delia Parr did a beautiful job and I would recommend this read to anyone that enjoys this genre.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Martha Cade comes from a long line of midwives who have served the families of Trinity, Pennsylvania, for generations. A widow with two grown children, she's hopeful that her daughter will follow in her footsteps, but when Victoria runs off, Martha's world is shattered.

Worse, a new doctor has arrived in town, threatening her job, and she can't remember a time when her faith has been tested more. Still determined to do the work she knows God intended for her, Martha is unprepared for all that waits ahead. Whether it's trying to stop a town scandal, mending broken relationships, or feeling the first whispers of an unexpected romance, she faces every trial and every opportunity with hope and faith.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Midwife’s Tale, go HERE.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Delia Parr is the author of sixteen historical and inspirational historical romance novels, including Hearts Awakening, Love's First Bloom, and Hidden Affections. The mother of three grown children, she was a long-time high school teacher in southern New Jersey before retiring to Florida.

CFBA: The Wood's Edge by Lori Benton

Song Stuck on the Brain: Hey Brother by Avicii

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
The Wood's Edge WaterBrook Press (April 21, 2015) by Lori Benton

MY TAKE:

The Wood's Edge showed how just a split second decision can be felt for a lifetime of  more. Major Aubrey is grieving and makes a terrible choice, to steal one of the twins from an Oneida mother and replace it with his own dead child. That would be terrible enough, but as his lie progresses it affects everyone near him. Lori Benton has done a fantastic job presenting the rippling results from a tiny stone tossed in a moment in time. Love, heartache, anger, fear - forgiveness. It's a beautiful story and the historical research and well described setting set me back in time until I felt their life in 18th century New York frontier come to life.

If you enjoy historical novels or just enjoy a really well crafted story, you won't want to miss this one.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

At the wood’s edge cultures collide. Can two families survive the impact?

The 1757 New York frontier is home to the Oneida tribe and to British colonists, yet their feet rarely walk the same paths.

On the day Fort William Henry falls, Major Reginald Aubrey is beside himself with grief. His son, born that day, has died in the arms of his sleeping wife. When Reginald comes across an Oneida mother with newborn twins, one white, one brown, he makes a choice that will haunt the lives of all involved. He steals the white baby and leaves his own child behind. Reginald’s wife and foundling daughter, Anna, never suspect the truth about the boy they call William, but Reginald is wracked by regret that only intensifies with time, as his secret spreads its devastating ripples.

When the long buried truth comes to light, can an unlikely friendship forged at the wood’s edge provide a way forward? For a father tormented by fear of judgment, another by lust for vengeance. For a mother still grieving her lost child. For a brother who feels his twin’s absence, another unaware of his twin’s existence. And for Anna, who loves them both—Two Hawks, the mysterious Oneida boy she meets in secret, and William, her brother. As paths long divided collide, how will God direct the feet of those who follow Him?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Wood's Edge, go HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lori Benton spent her late teens and early twenties pursuing a career as a wildlife artist, attending the Maryland College of Art & Design before she began painting professionally. When not writing or researching, Lori can be found exploring the mountains of southern Oregon with her husband, Brian. Lori's first novel, Burning Sky was nominated as an ECPA 2014 Christian Book Award Finalist and also received double nominations for 2014 Christy Awards. The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn is her second novel.

CFBA: Swept Away by Laura V Hilton and Cindy Loven

Song Stuck on the Brain: Mary Did You Know? by Pentatonix

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
Swept Away Abingdon Press (November 18, 2014) by Laura V. Hilton
and
Cindy Loven
MY TAKE: 

Sara Jane's grandma reminded me a little of my Granny, God rest her soul. Spunky, sharp and known for having both a sweet nature and little bite. It made me feel like I could connect with her a tad bit more. And Andrew? Mmm! There's a lot of good stuff under all that broom dust! This was a fun story with a touching look at romance mixed with complicated family issues.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Sara Jane Morgan is trying to balance teaching with caring for her ailing, stubborn grandmother. When school lets out for the summer, the plans are for Grandma to teach Sara Jane to quilt as they finish up the Appalachian Ballad quilt Grandma started as a teenager. But things don’t always go as planned. Andrew Stevenson is hiding from his past—and his future. He works as a handyman to pay the bills, but also as an artisan, designing homemade brooms. When Sara Jane’s grandmother hires him to renovate her home, sparks fly between him and his new employer’s granddaughter. Still, it doesn’t take Sara Jane long to see Drew isn’t what he seems. Questions arise, and she starts online researching him. What she discovers could change her life—and her heart—forever.

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



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Award winning author Laura V. Hilton has penned many novels, including the Amish of Seymour series, the Amish of Webster County series, and the forthcoming Amish of Jamesport series. A member of ACFW, Laura is also a professional book reviewer for the Christian market, with over a thousand book reviews published at various online review sites. A pastor’s wife, stay-at-home mom, and home school teacher, Laura and her family make their home in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas.

A lifelong reader, Cindy Loven is an active church wife of a minister and mother to one son who is a home school graduate. Cindy and her family reside in Conway, Arkansas.

CFBA: Saved by the Fireman by Allie Pleiter

Song Stuck on the Brain: How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?  It's one of my niece's senior year and they're performing the Sound of Music this weekend for the Fall musical. She mentioned how odd it felt to see so many nuns running around suddenly and this song popped in and won't go away.

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
Saved by the Fireman Love Inspired (October 21, 2014) by Allie Pleiter

MY TAKE: 

Is it hot in here or is that just Jesse Sykes?

Cheesy intro or not, that's pretty much how I felt. Jesse is "hot" in all the right ways. Known as 'Pipes' on the squad for his golden voice, he can calm children and turn women to jello all with with same song. He's a master at the stove and at the power tools. He's every woman's dream in my book. Even has the dark good looks. :)

Afraid that makes it too predictable or cheesy? Not in my book. There's always a little bit of a vague formulaic outline, keep in mind these are romance novels by the month. That doesn't mean that there isn't cleverness and fun included. I thoroughly enjoyed Charlotte and Jesse's hot stepping around the issue of love. It was funny, sweet and addictive. In fact, I found out this was the fifth book in the Gordon Falls series by Allie Pleiter. I'm already searching Amazon to find the rest of the series. This one easily stands on it's own, but I love the cast and location (as well as her great writing) so much, that I'll be investing in the rest of the books.

Falling for the Fireman #1

The Fireman's Homecoming#2

The Firefighter's Match #3

A Heart to Heal #4

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Building their future

Charlotte Taylor isn't good at playing it safe. Reeling from the sudden loss of her job and her beloved grandmother, Charlotte knows buying a dilapidated cottage in Gordon Falls isn't exactly practical. Especially since she just hired the one man who may love the property more than she does to help renovate it. Volunteer firefighter and part-time contractor Jesse Sykes can't stay mad at Charlotte for very long. Though she snatched up the home he'd planned on purchasing, Charlotte's dreams are big enough for both of them…if only she'd let him in. Charlotte promised she'd never fall for a first responder, but is it already too late?

Gordon Falls: Hearts ablaze in a small town

If you would like to read the first chapter of Saved by the Fireman, go HERE




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and nonfiction. An avid knitter, harp player and non-reformed chocoholic, she spends her days writing books, doing laundry, running carpools and finding new ways to avoid housework. Allie grew up in Connecticut, holds a BS in speech from Northwestern University and currently lives in suburban Chicago, Illinois. The "dare from a friend" to begin writing eight years ago has blossomed into a career that includes numerous public speaking engagements, two books on parenting; Becoming a Chief Home Officer and Facing Every Mom's Fears and now novels for Steeple Hill Books. She is the mother of two children and, most recently, a Havanese dog named Bella.

CFBA: Thunder by Bonnie S. Calhoun

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
Thunder (Stone Braide Chronicles) Revell (October 7, 2014) by Bonnie S. Calhoun

I have this book on my TBR stack but haven't had a chance to read it yet, so I didn't sign up to be a part of the official tour. However I couldn't pass up the chance to share this with the rest of you. Looks to be a FANTASTIC read. Hope you enjoy it.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In post-apocalyptic America, Selah Chavez is crouched in long grass on a shore littered with the rusted metal remnants of a once-great city. It is the day before her eighteenth Born Remembrance, and she is hunting, though many people refuse to eat animal flesh, tainted by radiation during the Time of Sorrows. What Selah's really after are Landers, mysterious people from a land across the big water who survive the delirium-inducing passage in small boats that occasionally crash against the shoreline. She knows she should leave the capture to the men, but Landers bring a good price from the Company and are especially prized if they keep the markings they arrive with.

Everything falls to pieces when the Lander Selah catches is stolen by her brothers--and Selah wakes up the next morning to find the Lander's distinctive mark has suddenly appeared on her own flesh. Once the hunter, Selah is now one of the hunted, and she knows only one person who can help her--Bohdi Locke, the Lander her brothers hope to sell.

With evocative descriptions of a strange new world that combines elements of scientific advances, political intrigue, and wilderness survival, Bonnie S. Calhoun weaves a captivating tale of a world more like our own than we may want to admit.

You can read Tremors, the prequel to the series for FREE on Amazon HERE.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Thunder (Stone Braide Chronicles), go HERE



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Bonnie S. Calhoun is Owner/Director of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance, owner/publisher of Christian Fiction Online Magazine, Northeast Zone Director for American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and the ACFW ‘2011 Mentor of the Year.”

She love to write, but it doesn't make her happy unless there are the three B's...body count, blood, and blowing things up. She also have mad skills at coding HTML, and website design. And she live in a log cabin in the woods with fifteen acres and a pond full of bass, though she'd rather buy fish at the grocery store. Bonnie shares her domain with a husband, a dog, and two cats, all of whom think she’s waitstaff!

Her sites are:
http://bonniescalhoun.com
https://www.facebook.com/bscalhoun
https://www.facebook.com/bonniescalhoun
https://www.goodreads.com/BonnieSCalhoun
http://www.pinterest.com/bonniecalhoun/
https://www.youtube.com/user/BonnieCalhoun

CFBA: In the Field of Grace by Tessa Afshar

Song Stuck on the Brain: Let Us Shake Off the Coals of Our Garments (hymn)

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
In The Field of Grace River North; New Edition edition (July 1, 2014) by Tessa Afshar


MY TAKE:

Tessa Afshar is back with another hit. YAY! If you're a follower of my blog, you're familiar with this author because I've reviewed and raved about every one of her books. I'm very particular about my Bible fiction. It's a careful balance between retelling the story in precise detail and filling in the details with history and fictional license without changing anything or leaving anything out. Add to it that it needs to be enticing, entertaining and captivating. A balance between drama and hope. Tessa does it all. She has a gift for story telling that allows me to step into the pages of the Bible and relive history in detail all while feeling I learned something new and enlightening in my relationship with Jesus.

Ruth's story is one of my favorites, but I always wondered why her story had so much to share that she got her own book. Obviously there are genealogical connections and other things that make her story important, but Tessa shines a light on Ruth and brings her into a new perspective that really opened up her story to me. It's beautiful. My mom has already read it and loved it and now my 17 year old niece is reading it. This is a book for all ages. Don't miss out.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Destitute, grief-stricken, and unwanted by the people of God, Ruth arrives in Israel with nothing to recommend her but Naomi's, love. Her loftiest hope is to provide enough food to save Naomi and herself from starvation.

But God has other plans for her life. While everyone considers Ruth an outcast, she is astounded to find one of the most honored men of Judah showing her favor.  Long since a widower and determined to stay that way, Boaz is irresistibly drawn to the foreign woman with the haunted eyes. He tells himself he is only being kind to his Cousin Naomi's chosen daughter when he goes out of his way to protect her from harm, but his heart knows better.

Based on the biblical account of Ruth, In the Field of Grace is the story of a love that ultimately changes the course of Israel's destiny and the future of the whole world.

If you would like to read the first chapter of In The Field of Grace, go HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

TESSA AFSHAR was voted "New Author of the Year" by the Family Fiction sponsored Reader's Choice Award 2011 for her novel Pearl in the Sand. She was born in Iran, and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She moved to England where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States permanently. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life forever. Tessa holds an MDiv from Yale University where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship at the Divinity School. She has spent the last thirteen years in full-time Christian work.

CFBA: Firewall by DiAnn Mills

Song Stuck on the Brain: Mama He's Crazy by the Judds

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
Firewall Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (July 1, 2014) by DiAnn Mills

MY TAKE:

DiAnn Mills is a master at building suspense and plucking the heartstrings all while keeping it in a perfect whirlwind, ninety or nothing, supercharged balance. Did that make sense? LOL If you're not sure pick up Firewall and you'll see what I mean. It starts with a bang and never stops. I loved it. I especially enjoyed the well timed spiritual comments that struck a chord but didn't weigh down the story. Oh, and Buddy. Just wait until you meet Buddy. He may be my favorite hero second to Agent Grayson Hall.

I loaned this one to my mom and she had it back to me in less than 2 days. She said, "That was intense! Do you have any other books by her?" Oh yeah, you bet I do! :) Neither of us can wait for more from DiAnn Mills. Don't miss out on the action, check out Firewall A.S.A.P.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

After a whirlwind romance, Taryn Young is preparing to board a plane at Houston International Airport, bound for a dream honeymoon, when a bomb decimates the terminal. Injured but still alive, she awakens to discover her husband is missing and they’re both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn’t who he appears to be.

Agent Grayson Hall’s number-one priority is to catch those responsible for the day’s act of terror. All evidence is pointing to Taryn and her new husband. But his instinct tells him her pleas of innocence are genuine. Is her naiveté just for show, or could she truly be another victim of a master scheme, possibly linked to the software she recently developed for her company?

With both their lives and reputations on the line, and the media outcry for justice increasing with each passing minute, Taryn and Grayson have no choice but to trust one another . . . and pray they can uncover the truth before they become two more casualties.

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

DiAnn Mills believes her readers should “Expect an Adventure.” She is a fiction writer who combines an adventuresome spirit with unforgettable characters to create action-packed novels. Her books have won many awards through American Christian Fiction Writers, and she is the recipient of the Inspirational Reader’s Choice award for 2005, 2007, and 2010. She was a Christy Award finalist in 2008 and a Christy winner in 2010.

DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Inspirational Writers Alive, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, and is the Craftsman Mentor for the Christian Writer’s Guild. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops.

DiAnn and her husband live in Houston, Texas. Visit her website or find her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/diannmills

CFBA: Rival Hearts by Tara Randel

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:   Rival Hearts Abingdon Press (June 17, 2014) by   Tara Randel

MY TAKE:

The book blurb had me hooked long before it ever arrived in the mail. I don't care if it does sound like a predictable chick-flick plot. I LIKE chick-flicks. Especially really good ones. Plot concept is as brilliant and fun as the writer that uses it. In this case, Tara Randel did a great job! Molly and Ben's competitive natures get them both into places they wish they'd thought about twice, but they keep going. Their determination to keep love at bay and avoid what they have between them gets them into a few sticky places too. Working for one another is easy compared to falling in love.

Rival Hearts is a great read, weaving fun and romance with heart and faith.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.

Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?

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






ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. After finding Romantic Times magazine in a bookstore many years ago, she found information about writing organizations. Soon after, she joined Romance Writers of America. She located the local RWA chapter and immediately attended her first meeting. There was no stopping her after that!

Through Tampa Area Romance Authors, Tara learned all about the business of publishing, starting with the craft of writing to behind the scenes of publishing. She served as contest coordinator for four years and served as President for one year, enjoying the organization and the lasting friendships made there.

When not writing, Tara owns a business with her husband and stays busy with her two daughters. She lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery. Enjoy!

CFBA: Yankee in Atlanta by Jocelyn Green

Song Stuck on the Brain: I Wanna Be Like You from The Jungle Book

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:   Yankee in Atlanta River North(June 1, 2014) by   Jocelyn Green



MY TAKE:

As much as I was looking forward to this book, it never arrived. *pout* The publishers must have had something come up to delay the delivery. I'm sorry, I know this is two in a row, but we all know there is no controlling the mail delivery. If the book ever arrives, I will post a review. In the mean while, please enjoy a peek at the book to come.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

When soldier Caitlin McKae woke up in Atlanta after being wounded in battle, the Georgian doctor who treated her believed Caitlin's only secret was that she had been fighting for the Confederacy disguised as a man. In order to avoid arrest or worse, Caitlin hides her true identity and makes a new life for herself in Atlanta. Trained as a teacher, she accepts a job as a governess to the daughter of Noah Becker, a German immigrant lawyer, who is about to enlist with the Rebel army. Then in the spring of 1864, Sherman's troops edge closer to Atlanta. Caitlin tries to escape north with the girl, but is arrested on charges of being a spy. Will honor dictate that Caitlin follow the rules, or love demand that she break them?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Yankee in Atlanta, go HERE.




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jocelyn Green is a child of God, wife and mom living in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She is also an award-winning journalist, author, editor and blogger. Though she has written nonfiction on a variety of topics, her name is most widely recognized for her ministry to military wives: Faith Deployed. Her passion for the military family was fueled by her own experience as a military wife, and by the dozens of interviews she has conducted with members of the military for her articles and books, Faith Deployed: Daily Encouragement for Military Wives and its sequel, Faith Deployed...Again: More Daily Encouragement for Military Wives. She is also co-author of both Stories of Faith and Courage from the War in Iraq & Afghanistan and Stories of Faith and Courage from the Home Front (forthcoming, May 2012). Her Faith Deployed Web site and Facebook page continue to provide ongoing support, encouragement and resources for military wives worldwide.

CFBA: The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart by Allie Pleiter

Song Stuck on the Brain: My Savior, My God by Aaron Shust

 

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:   The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart Love Inspired (June 3, 2014) by   Allie Pleiter


MY TAKE:

Unfortunately, the books were sent out late and I just received my copy in the mail. I'll post a review as soon as possible. Although let me say, I've been looking forward to this one.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

When Katrine Brinkerhoff's cabin is attacked, only sheriff Clint Thornton's heroism saves her. She owes Clint her life—and her help catching the men responsible. All she has to do is trust in Clint's plan to protect her family. But she can't let herself care too deeply, not when her past carries secrets that would drive him away.

Infiltrating the murderous gang is a dirty job, yet Clint is determined to see it through. The brigands will face justice—and they will never harm Katrine again. Clint would give his life to keep the beautiful settler safe…but will he be willing to risk his heart?

Bridegroom Brothers: True love awaits three siblings in the Oklahoma Land Rush

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart, go HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and nonfiction. An avid knitter, harp player and non-reformed chocoholic, she spends her days writing books, doing laundry, running carpools and finding new ways to avoid housework. Allie grew up in Connecticut, holds a BS in speech from Northwestern University and currently lives in suburban Chicago, Illinois. The "dare from a friend" to begin writing eight years ago has blossomed into a career that includes numerous public speaking engagements, two books on parenting; Becoming a Chief Home Officer and Facing Every Mom's Fears and now novels for Steeple Hill Books. She is the mother of two children and, most recently, a Havanese dog named Bella.

CFBA: A Place in His Heart by Rebecca DeMarino

Song Stuck on the Brain: Everything's Okay by Chris Rice

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:   A Place in His Heart Revell (June 3, 2014) by   Rebecca DeMarino

MY TAKE:

Being a bit of a genealogy buff myself (check out the tabs across the top), I'm always intrigued by other people's family history. Rebecca DeMarino has done a fantastic job of not only tracking her family legacy back to the founding fathers of the USA (literally), but she's also woven that history, along with a few family legends, into a beautiful tapestry that shows a much bigger picture than the history books reveal.

Mary Langton marries for love, but that love requires a great deal of her. This isn't a modern day journey where you can pick up a phone and check in with the family, or hop a plane and visit the old country when you're especially homesick. Mary follows Barnabas to a New WORLD. That's a very good term for it - with a journey that kills many before they arrive, and takes many more before sturdy shelters can be built, it's nothing like home. But it's not just about being physically strong. Mary and the other women were strong in ways it's hard to imagine. In a time when you had no rights of your own and were expected to be seen and worked hard - but not heard, life was even harder.

I have a great deal of respect for both Barnabas and Mary and their families, I don't know that I could have done it. Then again, I'm sure many of them felt the same, yet they clung to their faith and the knowledge God had called them there for a purpose. It puts a whole new outlook for me on the idea "with God, all things are possible."

This novel was gripping and had me hooked til the very last, that's for "certe's"! If you enjoy historical romance, this is not to be missed.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Anglican Mary Langton longs to marry for love. Puritan Barnabas Horton is still in love with his deceased wife and needs only a mother for his two young sons. And yet these two very different people with very different expectations will take a leap of faith, wed, and then embark on a life-changing journey across the ocean to the Colonies. Along the way, each must learn to live in harmony, to wait on God, and to recognize true love where they least expect to find it.

This heartfelt tale of love and devotion is based on debut author Rebecca DeMarino's own ancestors, who came to Long Island in the mid-1600s to establish a life--and a legacy--in the New World.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of A Place in His Heart, go HERE.

Rebecca is hosting a Giveaway worth over $300.00 in prizes. There will be 8 winners! Scroll to the bottom of the post HERE to enter!!!!!


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rebecca DeMarino was born in Pensacola, Florida, the daughter of a Navy pilot. Her mother made a home for the family of six all over the map, including Virginia, Nevada, California, Washington, and Guam, before her parents put down anchor on a ranch in Oregon.

As the wife of a young Air Force officer, married life brought more travel. She relied on her mother’s example of how to make a home anywhere. Her three beautiful daughters were born in Florida, Alaska and Nebraska.

Retired after sixteen years with a major airline, she manages to fulfill her love of wanderlust with frequent family or research trips.

Rebecca grew up listening to her mother’s family lore of a great-grandfather from generations ago. Barnabas Horton sailed from England in the 1600’s, to Long Island, N.Y., on a ship called The Swallow. In 1999, after she found Horton Point, L.I., on a map, Rebecca and her mother made the journey to see the lighthouse named after their ancestor.

The legend goes that Barnabas brought a slab of blue slate with him from England, and had the epitaph he wrote himself engraved on it. The blue slate still exists in the Old Cemetery in Southold, L.I., with the Bible verse, “He being dead, still speaketh.” Much information was found about Barnabas, but none of his wife, save a mention in his will.

Her mother passed away in 2005, but Rebecca returned to Southold many times, drawn by her Puritan roots and English heritage. Each time she wondered about her ninth great-grandmother, a young woman who married a widower with two young boys and then followed them for the wilds of Long Island, leaving behind her home and family. What were her dreams? Her motivations? Her fears?

Rebecca’s historical romance novel, A PLACE IN HIS HEART, debuts with Revell, a division of Baker Publishing House, in June of 2014.

CFBA: Until I Found You by Victoria Bylin

Song Stuck on the Brain: Hello My Name Is by Matthew West

 
 

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:   Until I Found You Bethany House Publishers (May 6, 2014) by   Victoria Bylin

MY TAKE:

Kate and Nick's story is captivating from the very beginning. What came as a surprise for me, was how much the story of the endangered condors play into both their story as well as her grandparents. Author Victoria Bylin has done a great deal of research on the birds and she's woven their plight and drama into the very fabric of the tale. What in essence becomes a love story within in a love story. (How much better is that? A two-fer!)

Kate and Nick are both struggling to find answers in their lives. Nick has already given his life to Christ and turned away from his old ways, yet he still struggles with coming to terms with his past. Kate has drifted away from what she once knew, she's not sure she believes in God anymore, or if He has any interest in her life. 

They're blessed to have a couple of well placed people in their lives to help anchor them through it all. Nick's Pastor brother and wife are a great example of a healthy relationship. I appreciated the healthy relationships reflected as a counterbalance to those that struggled. Then there's Kate's grandma who has the wisdom of many years to share in both laughter and tears.

Get ready to see how God moves in their lives to show both of them reality, truth and all consuming love. A fantastic read that really touched my heart. Made me laugh, cry and even want to throttle a character occasionally. All signs of a really well written book! Lives change and choices have to be made that are really tough. You won't want to put this down until the very end.

Be prepared, even the ugly condor can be used to create a match made in heaven.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Finding each other was only the beginning . . .

When Kate Darby swerves off a mountain road to avoid hitting a California condor, she ends up trapped in her car, teetering on the edge of a cliff. Terrified, she breathes a prayer that changes her life.

It's Nick Sheridan who comes to Kate's rescue. Nick is handsome and confident, and he seems to develop a habit of rescuing her, but Kate is in town only until her grandmother recuperates from a stroke. She's not planning to get involved with one of the locals.

Nick is a reformed veteran of life in the fast lane, a new Christian, and a travel writer. When he sees a car dangling on the edge of a cliff, the daredevil in him jumps into action. He doesn't expect to be swept off his feet by the car's occupant. He's made a vow--no dating for a year--but keeping that vow is going to be a lot more difficult now that he's met Kate Darby. . . .

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Until I Found You, go HERE.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from the Author

This may sound crazy, but I was driven to write romance by giant bugs and killer rabbits. I just couldn't take it anymore. My husband and two sons would be camped in front of the television watching a movie about spiders the size of bowling balls, and I'd be wondering when the handsome scientist would get around to kissing the spunky woman with the bug spray. When it didn't happen, I decided to write my own happy endings--without the giant bugs...

Known for her realistic, likable characters and vivid writing, Victoria Bylin writes both western and contemporary inspirational romance. Her books have finaled in the ACFW Carol Awards, the Rita Awards and RT Magazine’s Reviewers’ Choice Awards. She and her husband currently live in Lexington, Kentucky and have two grown sons.