B4B: Twice a Bride by Mona Hodgson

Song Stuck on the Brain: Overjoyed by Matchbox Twenty

Twice a Bride

by

Mona Hodgson



MY TAKE:

Twice a Bride is book 4 in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series. All of which have been very enjoyable. Willow is actually the sister-in-law to the Sinclair sisters, but has been welcomed into the family with open arms, especially now that she is returned from being institutionalized for depression after her first husband died in a tragic accident. Everyone treats Willow as if she's fragile, afraid she can't stand on her own and make a new life for herself, but Willow is determined to prove them wrong. To show them the faith she has learned to depend on and to prove to herself that she can move forward and be happy. She never anticipated that love or marriage would be a part of her life again. 

Trenton Van Der Veer isn't your average romance hero. He has a speech impediment that has left him with all kinds of scars in his life, spiritually and emotionally. He's had his heart broken and abused by a selfish young girl. The last thing he wants is a wife. He hires Willow under mistaken impression she's married. When he discovers she's a widow, he realizes he's relieved. Willow is talented, they seem to fit like two pieces of a puzzle, but can they overcome their past to find a happy future?

Willow and Trenton are both and inspiration, their frailty becomes their strength as they grow in faith and it's so encouraging. The surrounding stories with the sisters, and the family dynamics keep things light hearted and rolling along at a fast pace. Romance blooms between more than just the Willow and Trenton as well, so you get more sweetness for your buck.

A great read over all. I do recommend you read the earlier books first. They're great and it makes the read smoother, but Twice a Bride can be read as an individual novel if you chose to be a rebel. :)


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Love lost doesn’t mean love lost forever.

Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows?

Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.

With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?

Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns.

Read a Sneak Peak of Twice a Bride HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Over the last twenty-five years, Mona Hodgson’s publishing credits have grown to include nearly thirty children's books, contributions to more than ten books for adults, and four historical novels, including her debut, Two Brides Too Many in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series. Mona is a popular speaker for women's groups, schools, and educators’ and writers’ conferences. She lives in Arizona with her husband and has two daughters and several grandchildren.

"I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

The Orphan King by Sigmund Brouwer

Today I'm reviewing for Waterbrook Multnomah.

The Orphan King

 

by

 

Sigmund Brouwer

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.

B4B: Not This Time by Vicki Hinze

Today I'm touring on behalf of WaterBrook/Multnomah:

Not This Time

by

Vicki Hinze

MY TAKE:

I wish I had known this was the third book in a series. That's my only complaint. When I opted in I was hooked by the premise of the suspense, but nowhere did it indicate a series. Once I had the book in hand, neither the front cover or spine indicated a series, it wasn't until I was several chapters in and feeling as if I was missing something, did I find it notated on the cover page that it is book 3 in the Crossroads Crisis Series. Had I known it was a sequel, I would have purchased and read books 1 and 2 first. It would have been worth it. And I tell you that so you have the opportunity to enjoy this book in the order it was intended, because it is worth the effort.

Ms. Hines did a fantastic job with the characters and the intrigue. Just when I thought I had it figured out another clue would rock my hypothisis. Which of course makes the intrigue truly suspenseful because you spend a good portion of your reading time hoping that this character or that person isn't going to be evil after all. It's a great read with strong Christian characters that share their faith in their daily living. Fantastic book. Now I'm off to find the first two books, Forget Me Not and Deadly Ties.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Small town scandal. International terrorist attack. Who among them is the traitor?

Sara and Beth have built a multi-million dollar business together, but their once solid friendship is now strained. Beth is leery of Sara’s husband, and when he is kidnapped, authorities consider Beth their prime suspect.

Then, their small town of Seagrove Village is rocked by an act of terrorism, and Beth doesn’t know who to trust. Someone she knows is linked to the attack, but who? Is there a connection to Crossroads Crisis Center? In the midst of the confusion and fear, Beth finds herself attracted to a man from her past. She knows she shouldn’t fall in love with him, but she can’t resist or even explain their bond. As her world unravels around her, she wonders, is it possible to be beyond redemption?

To read an excerpt click HERE, or BUY NOW

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Vicki Hinze is an award-winning author of multiple novels including Forget Me Not and Deadly Ties. Hinze’s willingness to take risks in writing and genre has earned her a reputation for trail-blazing skill. She holds a Master of Arts in Creative Writing and a Doctorate in Philosophy, Theocentric Business & Ethics and served as vice president on the International Thriller Writers Board of Directors. She lives in Florida with her husband.


"I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

The Crossing by Serita Ann Jakes

The Crossing

by

Serita Ann Jakes

MY TAKE:

This is the first book I've read by Mrs. Jakes, and it was a very pleasant surprise. The story is told through several of the character's points of view. The shifting between characters was really well done and I think it was an important writing decision, because the story is so much richer for it. Claudia and Casio both suffer from PTSD and emotional trauma from the accident 10 years before. Reading their thoughts and seeing how they rationalized their choices was enlightening and heartbreaking. I think one of the most interesting character point of view we're shown, though, is that of the Victim. As the young teach lays dying on the school bus floor, unable to speak or respond to those around her, we see her coming to terms with her life. Facing her sins, accepting responsibility and forgiveness. Feeling the transition from a mortal life to immortal grow within her as the love of Jesus fills her spirit. It was a beautiful thread woven through the story. Mrs. Jakes shows pain and horror, then the path to finding healing and acceptance. It's not all happy endings and sunshine, but it is very moving. I highly recommend it.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In 2000, a horrible unsolved crime is committed on a Texas school bus. At the time, Claudia Campbell was the beautiful head cheerleader, a hopeful girl who idolized her slain teacher. Now ten years later, Claudia's secret life threatens to destroy her marriage and possibly her very life.

Casio Hightower, now a prominent member of the community and a police officer, was a superstar quarterback and tapped by several colleges as their next golden boy. Casio's rages are tearing him apart and are close to landing him in jail.

The only way to move forward with their lives is to readdress the crime of their past, with the help of God and his perfect grace.





ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Serita A. Jakes has been involved in Christian ministry all of her adult life and has served alongside her husband, Bishop T. D. Jakes, throughout their entire marriage of nearly 30 years. As an insightful speaker, she draws heavily from her education and background in theater and mass communications. A soft-spoken woman offstage, First Lady Jakes, as she is affectionately referred to by The Potter’s House congregation, possesses the rare ability to reach and stir her audiences as she works to complement her husband’s ministry.

In August 1999, she released her first book, The Princess Within, which to date has sold more than 200,000 copies. The book, which is a poignant and revealing autobiographical reflection of encouragement and victory over pain, trauma, and abuse, is scheduled for re-release spring 2011. Serita wrote the book as a vehicle of encouragement for hurting women who want to break the silence surrounding their secret pain and obtain healing from it. In November 2003, Warner Faith published First Lady Jakes’ second book, Beside Every Good Man: Loving Myself While Standing By Him. It challenges women to explore the seasons that shape their views of male influence in their eyes.


“I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review”

The Dragon and Turtle Go on Safari by Donita K. Paul

Song Stuck on the Brain: I Could Not Ask For More by Edwin McCain






Today, as part of the Blogging For Books program with WaterBrook Multnomah, I'm reviewing:

The Dragon and Turtle Go on Safari

by

Donita K. Paul

& Evangeline Denmark

MY TAKE:

I think this is my first review of a children's picture book, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to read more by one of my favorite authors. Plus, I collect children's picture books and knew this one would be a good addition. I love a good story and well done illustrations.

The story is fun, with Roger and Padrig's imaginations seeing an owl as a howler monkey and a kitten as a baby leopard, to name a few. I enjoyed the way the two boys encouraged one another to be brave and never made fun of the other for being jumpy at night. It's very cute with a strong underlying message. The illustrations are adorable and are perfect for the story, a very important part of the book as a whole.

I would say it's better suited for older children that read well, or as a story read by an adult to a child. In my mind though, that's a great choice for stocking your bookshelf. Sure, it's very important for kids to practice reading for themselves, but being read to is also very important in their literary growth. Kids that hear words pronounced properly, experience the proper flow and rhythm of a story being read, and see the fun and joy that is brought by sharing a good story with someone else, become better readers. It's also a great way of bonding with a child.

I'm excited to see that Donita K. Paul has expanded her writing genre and look forward to seeing more.

"Go on Safari" with your child - Enter to Win!

WaterBrook Multnomah want to send your child on their very own backyard safari!

Prize includes:
A Child-Size Tent
2 Sleeping Bags
And Much More!


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Roger the turtle and Padraig the dragon are together again for their second adventure, The Dragon & the Turtle Go on Safari, by Donita K. Paul and Evangeline Denmark, illustrated by Vincent Nguyen. Roger and his new friend, Padraig go on a camping trip and have all kinds of adventures together.

The friends brave the night and hear all sorts of sounds from the jungle as they learn more about what it means to be a real friend.



ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

A former schoolteacher, DONITA K. PAUL is the best-selling author of the Dragon Keeper series, The Vanishing Sculptor, and Dragons of the Valley. She enjoys cooking, beading, stamping, knitting, and her grandsons. Not necessarily in that order.


The daughter of novelist Donita K. Paul, EVANGELINE DENMARK grew up living and breathing good stories. Now she enjoys fiction writing and loves to share Roger and Padraig stories with her own two rambunctious boys.





ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:

New Jersey-based professional artist and illustrator, VINCENT NGUYEN has worked on such movies as Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs, Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who!, Ice Age: The Meltdown, and Robots. His whimsical style brings Roger and Padraig to life on the page.

Flight of Shadows by Sigmund Brouwer

Song Stuck on the Brain: Million Pieces by The Newsboys

Today I'm touring a book I received free for review from WaterBrook Multnomah through their Blogging for Books program.




Flight of Shadows: A Novel

by

Sigmund Brouwer

MY TAKE:

Flight of Shadows, Sigmund Brouwer's follow-up to Broken Angel, was a very pleasant surprise. I'd read Broken Angel and enjoyed it, but had no idea that a sequel had been written. Reading Flight of Shadows was like stumbling across a group of long lost friends. Finding Caitlyn, Billy, and Theo again, and joining them on this new journey was perfect.

Brouwer's depiction of our near future is indeed dismal, with the worst in humanity on display from politics to religion. But through it all runs a very firm strand of hope. This may be speculative fiction, a story that begs us to look a little deeper at our true nature and how close we all walk the line between good and evil, but it's also a fantastic, fast paced, nail-biting read that keeps you up to all hours of the night.

I dare you not to find a part of yourself that identifies with genetically manipulated Caitlyn, or gentle giant Billy, or even street savy Razor, in some way. It's the sign of a truly gifted writer, that character's become people who live and breathe in our minds. Paper images of our own hidden thoughts and fears that allow us to imagine 'what if'. Alter egos of a sort, that give us the opportunity to explore new worlds and learn the great lessons in life, all while encouraging us to look past the evil in the world and see the hope that is still there for all to receive.

This is definitely speculative fiction at it's best.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Her genetic secret could change humanity forever.
Her DNA grants her the ultimate power.
But all she wants is to disappear.

Looming buildings rise into the sky of a near-future America, shadowing the desperate poverty of the soovie parks, death doctors, and fear bombs. In this world of walled cities, where status matters most, Caitlyn Brown is desperate to remain invisible, wrongly believing what she needs to hide is the deformity on her back. The powerful want her for so much more.

She’s forced to take flight again, relying on the help of Razor, a street-smart illusionist she can’t trust. Her only hope is to reach friends already tracked by government.

With a twisted bounty hunter in full pursuit, she and Razor begin to learn the unthinkable about her past and the unique gifts of her DNA. It leads Caitlyn to a choice between the two men who love her, and whether to keep her freedom or sacrifice herself to change human destiny.

In this lightning-fast chase through an all-too-plausible future, best-selling author Sigmund Brouwer is at his best. Flight of Shadows is a terrifying ride into the heart of compelling moral questions about science and society.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sigmund Brouwer is the author of eighteen novels with nearly three million copies in print. His recent novel The Last Disciple was featured in Time magazine and on ABC's Good Morning America. Sigmund is married to Christian recording artist Cindy Morgan, and they and their two daughters divide their time between homes in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada and Nashville, Tennessee.