Pre-order Distortion by Terri Blackstock for $4.99. Kindle Fire Giveaway and Facebook Party!

Juliet Cole’s life has been dismantled by the murder of her husband. She doesn’t know who—or what—to trust when everything she has believed to be true about her marriage has been a lie.

A husband’s lies can have deadly consequences.

When Juliet Cole’s husband of fifteen years is murdered before her eyes, she thinks it was a random shooting. Devastated and traumatized, she answers hours of questioning, then returns home to break the tragic news to her boys. But a threatening voicemail takes this from a random shooting to a planned, deliberate attack.

Juliet realizes that she and her children are in danger too, unless she meets the killers’ demands. But as she and her sisters untangle the clues, her husband’s dark secrets come to light. The more she learns, the more of her life is dismantled. Was her husband an innocent victim or a hardened criminal?

Pre-order a copy for just $4.99 on Kindle, Nook, iTunes, or the eBook version on CBD until March 10th.

Learn more at Terri’s website.

Terri Blackstock has sold over six million books worldwide and is a New York Times bestselling author. She is the award-winning author of "Intervention," "Vicious Cycle," and "Downfall," as well as such series as Cape Refuge, Newpointe 911, the SunCoast Chronicles, Restoration, and Moonlighters.

Find out more about Terri athttp://www.terriblackstock.com.

My Review:

Well Once again my not being a Suspense reader has not mattered a hoot when reviewing Suspense Novels. I was not aware this was a Book 2 in the series, but it stands alone well even if you have not read the first book.   I love the way Terri Blackstock writes, her story flows smoothly and her plot is really good.  I love the Action, the Romance and Perhaps I may pick up another book of hers in the future... Is Julies husband who she really believes him to be ?  Will she get over his death ? Is he really the innocent one or the guilty one ?  Will Julie find love again ? or will her whole world fall apart ?  What will she do to protect her family ?    You will have to get yourself a copy of this book for sure.  If your a suspense reader it is a must read !  You will love the romance and the love of family portrayed in this story a lot. I will be recommending it to my friends who love a great mystery.

Don't miss Terri Blackstock's latest release in the Moonlighters series, Distortion.

The book releases March 11th, and Terri will be kicking off the release with a fun Facebook Distortion party and giving away a Kindle Fire HDX. PLUS readers can pre-order the ebook for just $4.99 between now and 3/11 everywhere ebooks are sold.

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire HDX


• Distortion and Truth Stained Lies by Terri Blackstock

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 11th. Winner will be announced at the Distortion Facebook Party on March 11th. Connect with Terri for a "suspenseful" book launch party with prizes, a book chat, and more.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 11th!

I recieved this book for my honest review and have recieved no further compensation for doing so.

Thank you Litfuse, Zondervan and Author Terri Blackstock

Tomorrow: My Review of Distortion by Terri Blackstock and Thank you !

I hope you will join me tomorrow Feb 26th for My review of Terri's book Distortion and the Info for her giveaway.

Today was a busy and yet somewhat  stressful day for me.  Why is it we stress about things God calls us to do ?

I knew a year or so ago that the Lord wanted me to share things from my life with other girls and women, but I wasn't sure in what way that would come about. He has made a way for me to try writing and I have learned alot this past year while reading and reviewing, influencing for Authors.  I still am not so sure I consider myself a writer but I will give it my best shot from the heart !

I want to thank all my Author, Reader fans for supporting me in Life and In Prayers and I hope each of you will continue on in prayer for me and my family as I strive to bring honor and glory to the Lord.  You have no idea how much this means to me for your love in Christ to be shed upon me in so many ways.

Blessings and Much Love,

~ Linda~

I MUST be CRAZY !!! Lord Help Me, to bring Honor to YOU !

Today I signed up for SPEEDBO !  Everytime I saw this it struck fear my heart... Fear of Writing, Fear of rejection and fear of putting whats in my heart and head on paper...

But Here I go !

Pray for me...

Just sending the email to Seekerville brought tears to my eyes !

~Linda~

The Ransom by Marylu Tyndall Launch Week 2 and Giveaway !!!!

The Ransom Pre-release Party Week 2!

Port Royal, Jamaica 1692

Living in a city deemed the wickedest in the world is no easy task for Miss Juliana Dutton. To make matters worse, with an ailing father and a drunken fool for a brother, she is forced to take over the running of the family business in order to survive. When a meddlesome suitor threatens to discover her secret and cast them all onto the streets, she agrees to a spurious engagement with the town buffoon, Lord Munthrope. She only hopes the man is trustworthy.

The Pirate Earl, Alexander Hyde, son of the infamous Captain Edmund Merrick Hyde, is the most feared pirate in Port Royal. Disillusioned with the religion of his parents and the pleasures of the world, Alex staves off his emptiness by leading a dual life to hide his deepest secrets.

A long-time enemy is out to destroy Alex and take Juliana for his own. Struggling to maintain her faith in the Divine, Juliana faces her problems bravely, but the harder she tries, the more it seems everything is working against her. Unwittingly, she and her weak fiancé become entangled in the hostility between  the Pirate Earl and his enemy, while even more dangerous forces are rising up to destroy them all.

Allow me to present to you the hero

Alexander Edward Hyde, Lord Munthrope

What can I say? Alex is a hunk. I modeled him after the actor, Chris Hemsworth. Need I say more? He’s 25, tall, built, with coal black hair and indigo eyes. But it isn’t his looks that command respect, it’s his confidence, his demeanor, and his intelligence. Not to mention his skill with a cutlass. Sent to Port Royal as a preacher at age 20, Alex gave up on God after tragedy struck, threw off the religious shackles of his youth, and plunged into a life of debauchery. Soon, his skill and wit made him the most feared pirate in Port Royal, the Pirate Earl. But even that success left Alex empty. He longs for a father’s approval, a man who was absent most of Alex’s childhood, “saving the lost”. Consequently, Alex is mad at God—if He even exists—for stealing his father away. His new life’s philosophy is eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die. In fact, Alex welcomes death. At least in the grave he wouldn’t feel the emptiness clawing away at his insides anymore. That is, until he meets the enchanting Juliana Dutton.

Strengths: Charming, Intelligent, Skilled, Successful, Courageous, Kind, Honorable

Weaknesses: Proud, Pessimistic, Volatile, Bitter, Sad, Empty, filled with Shame

Quirks:  Alex runs his thumb and forefinger down the sides of his mouth when he is thinking—a unique gesture that may give his true identity away.

Inspiration: Alex is an odd mixture of the character types of King, Bad Boy, and Wounded Hero.  He really isn’t a bad boy, though he behaves like one some of the time. He wants to be king of his world and manages to elevate himself to a position of great power, but inside he still longs for the approval of his father. And, though he had loving, Godly parents, he is deeply wounded by their long absences in his childhood. He feels abandoned by not only by them, but by God Himself, if the Almighty even exists. Alex has come to doubt many things, especially the very meaning of life.  Alex is the kind of man who wears the crusty hard exterior of a villain but who inside is a man of honor and character and goodness. Who wouldn’t love a man like that?

OK so now here is your chance to win Marylu's book " The Ransom " Right, well you sail on over to see Captain Marylu and leave her a message to have a chance !!!!

http://crossandcutlass.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-ransom-pre-release-party-week-2.html?showComment=1393007189446#c3842253492391149030

Take it from her Top Woman , you don't want to miss this Voyage !!!  Go enter or I shall make ye walk the plank !!!!

Yo Ho Arrrrrrrrrr !

~Linda~

Elusive Hope by MaryLu Tyndall

 

In a colony named New Hope, while their friends are seeking a Southern utopia. . . .

Hayden is seeking revenge. Relentlessly.

After years of all but selling his soul to track down his scoundrel of a father, Hayden Gale discovers his search must continue in South America, where his father is reported to be helping colonize Brazil. Hayden has nothing more to lose, certainly not a good reputation, and vows to keep pursuing--at any cost--the vile man who he believes killed his mother.

 Magnolia is seeking a way out. Desperately.

 She’s in the jungles of Brazil against her will, but what choice does Magnolia Scott have? Her father insisted on uprooting their family to escape the uncertainty of Southern life after the Civil War. But how will she survive without all she holds dear—wealthy suitors, beautiful clothes, summer balls, and slaves waiting on her every whim? She vows to find a way to get back home—and attaches herself to handsome Hayden Gale.

As they journey toward Rio de Janeiro, they both seek to use the other for their own purposes. Deceptively. Falling in love was never part of their plans. . . .

 

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzPzAI_l_FM?feature=player_embedded&w=640&h=360]

My Review

I was surprised , captivated and now a Marylu Tyndall fan !  Is the hard life and trials enough to make Magnolia give up her hopes and dreams for a real true love someday ?  Will Hayden give up his desperate revenge to actually see what he truly needs in life ?  Marylu weaves a passionate tale of trials and romance in a post civil war period , that grip the heart and mind.  Romance that is sweet , hot and tender all at the same time. Romance so innocent and yet so sweetly passionate.  Adventure that will keep you  on the edge of your seat during suspense and yet totally taken with the  romance at its best !  I love historical fiction.  I love when authors like Marylu take a time period like post civil war and let us see what it was like for folks back in that era.  This is a saga put together that came from great research and wisdom.   Certainly not a tale for the weak of heart ! I am so proud of the way Marylu shows how the love of God prevails to victory over the spiritual and physical trials of life.  As any truly christian author should, for this soul reason I will be forever a reader of her captivating sagas.  I think anyone who loves adventure, romance, and a spell binding tale will love this book and also the whole series.  This is not a put down book, if you have to stop reading for any reason you will be seeking to grab this book and join the adventure of a lifetime.

Until next time !

~ Linda ~

 

MaryLu Tyndall about herself:

MaryLu Tyndall about herself:

"I'm a multi-published, best-selling author of Inspirational Adventure Romances normally set on the historical high seas.  I spent my early years on the Florida coast, dreaming of adventures at sea with  swashbuckling heros!  By age 15, I had a thousand stories swirling about in my head, but I never thought I could ever get published, so I took a different path. One that led me far away from my destiny and from the God who created me. I got a degree in Math and Computer Science and spent twenty years working at a career I hated. Still I wrote in my spare time. I couldn't do otherwise. It was who God made me to be. After years of searching  for meaning and after making a mess of my life, I finally came to my senses like the prodigal in the pigpen and gave my life, my all, to the living God. Since then, miracle after miracle has happened! And one of the biggest miracles of all was that God told me to write a book about pirates, so I did. And then He got me published. It's been a wild ride ever since!"

You can purchase your own copy here:

I received a complimentary copy of this book from TBCN and Publisher for Marylu Tyndall for my honest review and have received no further compensation for doing so.

SCRAPS OF EVIDENCE BY BARBARA CAMERON ~ KINDLE HDX GIVEAWAY

Scraps of Evidence: A Quilt of Love book.

Tess has taken some ribbing from her fellow officer, Logan,for her quilting hobby. He finds it hard to align the brisk professional officer he patrols with during the day with the one who quilts in her off-time. Besides, he’s been trying to get to know her better and he’d like to be seeing her during those couple nights a week she spends with her quilting guild.

Then one afternoon Tess and Logan visit her aunt in the nursing home and she acts agitated when Tess covers her with the story quilt. Aunt Susan seems to be communicating a message to them about Tess’s uncle. There’s a story behind this quilt, they realize, one that may lead them to a serial killer. Will they have a chance to have a future together or will the killer choose Tess for his next victim before they find him?

Learn more about this book and the series at the Quilts of Love website.

{MORE ABOUT BARBARA CAMERON}

Barbara Cameron is a best-selling author who has a heart for writing about the spiritual values and simple joys of the Amish. She is the author of more than 38 fiction and nonfiction books, three nationally televised movies, and the winner of the first Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award. Barbara is a former newspaper reporter. Some of her non-fiction titles include the “Everything Weddings on a Budget Book” and “Her Restless Heart: A Woman’s Longing for Love and Acceptance.” Cameron currently resides in Edgewater, Florida.

Find out more about Barbara athttp://barbaracameron.com.

My Review

I have to say that I truly enjoyed this story !  I am not usually into suspense, but I totally love quilting.  Now I am thinking I will need to read The Quilts of Love Series.  It is true that Everyday Quilts have a story , each and every one of them.  And it is true that no good quilter ever throws away good fabric.  How can a quilt solve a murder ?  Will  true love be found in the end ?  Will faith be found once again ?  Can justice be served and family remain intact ? You will want to get this novel and I suspect that as myself you will then we wanting the whole series of Novels.  I love the way Barbara weaves a tale of Suspense, Romance and True Love.   If suspense is your love, you will want to get this book and  have an awesome read.  This story will hold your attention and keep you on the edge of your seat.  I have to say that I have loved both of Barbara's new books and look forward to reading more of her upcoming work.  Her books leave you wanting to know more and hoping that the story will go on.  Off to my next suspense filled book...

Barbara Cameron's Scraps of Evidence is the newest book in the Quilts of Love line, and Barbara is celebrating with an "intriguing" Kindle HDX giveaway!

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX


• Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron


• Tempest's Course by Lynette Sowell


• Aloha Rose by Lisa Carter

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 8th. Winner will be announced on the Quilts of Love blog on March 10th.

Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

PRINCESS EVER AFTER $200 “Princess” Giveaway and Facebook Party with @RachelHauck!

About the book: A Royal Wedding Book

Regina Beswick was born to be a princess.

But she's content to be a small-town girl, running a classic auto restoration shop, unaware a secret destiny awaits her. One that will leap from the pages of her grandmother's hand-painted book of fairytales.

Tanner Burkhardt is the stoic Minister of Culture for the Grand Duchy of Hessenberg. When he is tasked to retrieve the long-lost princess, he must overcome his fear of failure in order to secure his nation's future---and his own.

Yet lurking in the political shadows is a fierce opponent with sinister plans to abolish the throne forever. Overwhelmed with opposition, Regina must decide if she's destined to restore old cars or an ancient nation. Together---with a little divine intervention---Regina and Tanner discover the truth of her heritage and the healing power of true love.Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/tk6Wt

Meet the author: Rachel Hauck is an award-winning, best selling author of critically acclaimed novels such as RITA nominatedThe Wedding Dress and RITA nominated Love Starts with Elle, part of the Lowcountry series, the Nashvegas series and the Songbird Novels penned with multi-platinum recording artist, Sara Evans. Their novel Softly and Tenderly, was one of Booklists 2011 Top Ten Inspirationals. A graduate of Ohio State University with a degree in Journalism, she worked in the corporate software world before planting her backside in an uncomfortable chair to write full time in 2004. Rachel serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers and leads worship at their annual conference. She is a mentor and book therapist at My Book Therapy, and conference speaker. Rachel writes from her two-story tower in an exceedingly more comfy chair. She is a huge Buckeyes football fan.Learn more about Rachel at: http://rachelhauck.com

My Review: 

I liked this book, but the whole time I was reading it I couldn't shake the fact that I watched the movie princess diaries.  Will he content small town girl learn to be the princess she truly is ? Will there be a real hero and can he overcome to save his country and his own future ?  Will the evil, fierce opponent be overthrown in his sinister plans ? This is a story of restoration and a true growing in character.  Will true love reign ?   Everyone loves a love story !  I liked the story line, its not really the typical girl meets boy story.   If you haven't watched too much cinderella, princess stories, it may appeal to you, or if this is your kind of story.  I like the way the author writes , this was the first book I have ever read of hers so maybe its just me.   I like the part that God is woven into the story and Faith surely wins out and God and Love conquer all !  I also liked that it has a happy ending and shows that when a woman gives in and lets the Lord guide her life and her " destiny" life goes totally right !  All in all its a great book and If your the cinderella story type girl , I highly recommend this one !

Rachel Hauck is celebrating the release of her latest "swoon"-worthy romance,  Princess Ever After, with a fun $200 "Princess" prize package giveaway and a Facebook "Princess" party on March 6th. Grab your tiaras and RSVP today!

One winner will receive:

• A $200 Visa cash card (buy your very own "princess ever after" gown or tanks of gas for your "royal" ride)


• Princess Ever After, Once Upon a Prince, and The Wedding Dress by Rachel Hauck

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 6th. Winner will be announced at Rachel's "Princess" Facebook Party on March 6th. Connect with Rachel for an evening of "royal" book chat, princess-themed trivia, laughter, prizes, and an exclusive look at the next book in the Royal Wedding series!

So grab your copy of Princess Ever After and join Rachel and friends on the evening of March 6th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 6th!

My Interview with Linda S. Clare ~ A Sky Without Stars

A Sky Without Stars

Linda S. Clare

You may purchase a copy here:

 http://www.amazon.com/Sky-Without-Stars-Quilts-Series/dp/1426752792/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1392671349&sr=1-1

Can a quilt bridge the gap between two cultures?  

After her husband is killed on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, Frankie Chasing Bear wants a fresh start. But in 1951, relocating through the US government’s Relocation Program didn’t just mean a new town; it meant a new way of life. Frankie quickly learns that raising her son, Harold, to revere his Lakota heritage, will be a challenge in the white man’s world. Searching for a way for her son to respect his ancestors but also embrace a future of opportunity, she begins a Lakota Star-pattern quilt with tribal wisdom sung, sewn, and prayed into it—something that will not let him forget where he came from.

A bed without a quilt is like a sky without stars, but neither the quilt nor her new life come easily to Frankie. Federal Agent Nick Parker, for instance, is the last man Frankie wants to trust. She’s already struggling to understand Nick’s culture, how can she embrace his Christian faith? Will Frankie learn that love is the most important ingredient for her son’s quilt—and life itself?    

 Linda S. Clare is an award-winning author of books, essays, short stories, and poems. She edits and mentors writers and is a frequent conference speaker and church retreat leader. She and her husband have four grown children. They live in Eugene, Oregon, with their three wayward cats.

~ Thank you Linda for coming and sharing with me today, especially on short notice. I wanted to share you and your story with everyone, I myself have Native American Heritage, Iroquois on my moms side of the family.  I am very taken by your love for the Lakota Children and your desire to help them and be a blessing to them.  I think it is a blessed thing when God calls us to help others. The lord has surely touched your heart for these people. May he bless and prosper you in your endeavors to do so.~

Please tell us a bit about your background and how you started as a CBA writer.

 I started out writing poems and articles, studying at the feet of some wildly talented writers who have become very successful: Melody Carlson and Heather Harpham Kopp.

~ Exiting , I wrote poems years ago and had not thought to have them published, you have encouraged me....

How did you come up with the concept for A Sky Without Stars?

 I love to write about Native Americans. Lakota Star patterned quilts are used by the Lakota to honor their members in “giveaway” ceremonies like naming ceremonies, births and marriages. When I learned that the star pattern is also called “Star of Bethlehem,” it was a natural for me to link the two ideas in Frankie Chasing Bear and Nick.

~ My Grandmother Fisher took up quilting in her later years and now I am learning and doing more myself this year. I think quilts add so much to our lives and carry the stories on into the future.

Do you have an Indian heritage?

Yes, but I only learned of my Cherokee/Choctaw connections when I reunited with my birth father about twenty years ago. My paternal grandpa was born in 1897 in Salisaw, Oklahoma, practically on the Cherokee reservation.

~ I still have my own heritage to learn of and from, it can be exciting.

What made you decide to write an historical novel based in the early fifties?

 The early fifties were a time of great change in America—both positive and not so positive. For Native Americans, the times were challenging, as the US federal government sought ways to get the Indians off the payroll by enticing them with a Relocation Program. This program promised training and/or good city jobs if the Native Americans agreed to move off the reservation. Unfortunately, the promise wasn’t realized much of the time, either stranding Indians with little formal education/skills or forcing them back to the rez. 

~ I have my own thoughts and frustratons on those issues as well and allowing them to build Casino's here in NY state wasn't the answer to making things right, it is only leading to the downfall of others.

How do you feel being a believer has influenced your writing ?

My main characters (including Frankie Chasing Bear) need to live out their faith questions. Sometimes they’re so wounded that they question God’s Love for them. This in turn causes me as the author to seek out the real Living God—I cannot accurately portray something so fundamental as belief if I am not firmly hidden in His Wings. I keep my relationship fresh with worship, prayer, community and Scripture reading. The characters must also find their way home. This mirrors my own faith journey, one of twists and turns, questions and thank goodness, real answers I can believe in with all my heart—that of Jesus’ loving salvation.

~ Praise the Lord for Salvation ! His free gift to us is the most important thing in life.

Who is your favorite Author ? and Why ?

Hard to narrow it down! I tend to love women’s fiction—especially realistic stories of people struggling but overcoming. I like Jodi Picoult and Sue Monk Kidd, but also love long-time pal and coauthor, Melody Carlson’s young adult stories. I have recently discovered Billy Coffey, a Christian author who’s fabulous! I have to be immersed in the fictional dream of the story and if the characters are underdeveloped (or censored) it doesn’t ring true to me.

~ My favorite's so far are Julie Lessman and Joanne Bischof !   I guess its the Moral Purity and Old Fashioned values I hold.

What is your favorite Drink when Reading?

I like to tell folks I have only one vice (LOL) and it’s Diet Dr. Pepper. I drink it shamelessly.

~ I can say I gave up Pepsi many years ago and only drink Ginger Ale !

Favorite Dessert or special treat ?

I don’t drink while reading (or driving!) as much as I love to gnosh while reading. My weakness is Paul Newman Fig Bars but I usually settle for no-butter popcorn.

~ To funny, I have since a girl loved Fig Newtons !

Do you have any pets ?

Do I! At one point my bio said “five wayward cats and two dumb dogs.” Right now we’re down to three wayward cats and the same two dumb dogs, although Bella the teacup Chihuahua would beg to differ.

~ We have some ferral cats here who adopted us !

Linda S. Clare is the author of women’s fiction, including The Fence My Father Built (Abingdon 2009) and upcoming A Sky without Stars (Abingdon 2014). She teaches writing at a community college and for George Fox University and lives in the Northwest with her family and three wayward cats.

www.Lindasclare.com

www.facebook.com/Lindaclarebooks

@Lindasclare on Twitter.

http://www.amazon.com/Linda-Clare/e/B001KHM3L6/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1392671349&sr=1-2-ent

Chat with Janette Oke and enter to win an iPad Mini!

Janette Oke's newest book, Where Courage Calls (co-written with her daughter, Laurel Oke Logan), is receiving rave reviews. It is the companion story to Hallmark Channel's TV series When Calls the Heart, set in the Canadian west.

Janette and Laurel are celebrating with an iPad Mini giveaway and a Facebook author chat party on March 4th.

One winner will receive:

• iPad Mini


• Where Courage Calls by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan


• When Calls the Heart DVD

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 4th. Winner will be announced at the Where Courage Calls Facebook Party on March 4th. Connect with Janette and Laurel for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more!

 

So grab your copy of Where Courage Calls and join Janette and Laurel on the evening of March 4th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 4th!

Wishing On Buttercups Blog Tour by Miralee Ferrell ~ Feb 10th - 28th

Each tour stop will be giving away one print copy of Wishing on Buttercups, U.S. residents only, so be sure and visit each stop to increase your chances of winning!  Giveaway details are given at the bottom of the post. 

February 10th – A Book Lover’s Retreat

February 11th – Shelley’s Book Case

February 12th – For the Love of Literature

February 13th -  The Book Bag

February 15th -  HomeSchooling4boyz

February 17th – Buzzing about Books

February 18th – Stuck on Books

February 19th – The power of words..

February 20th – My Recent Favorite Books

February 22nd – Melina’s Book Blog

February 24th – The Front Porch

February 26th – My Devotional Thoughts

February 28th – Diana’s Tea Time Reviews

February 28th – Create with Joy

 

Synopsis:

Can Love Survive When Secrets Collide?

She’d kept her secrets safely hidden—those from her past, and those in the present. Some things, Beth Roberts knows, a lady simply doesn’t share, even in the 1880’s West. The townspeople would never understand. No one ever has.

Jeffery Tucker, a handsome young writer, has kept his own secrets. He doesn’t have a right to pry into Beth’s affairs but finds himself strangely drawn to her and intrigued by the whiff of mystery surrounding her.

Beth knows that one day someone will unravel the threads of her past. And when two men from her past arrive, the truth might just hurt . . . Beth’s future and her heart.

As shadowy memories surface, Beth sketches the scenes she sees and is shocked by what—and who—her illustrations reveal. Dare she risk her heart again?

Miralee Ferrell is a speaker, accredited counselor, and former ACFW chapter president who has published multiple contemporary and historical romance novels since starting to write in 2005. She enjoys horseback riding, gardening, and family gatherings around their eleven-acre property in Washington State’s beautiful Columbia River Gorge. Miralee has had eight books release, both in women’s contemporary fiction and historical fiction, with another 5 under contract. She’s an award-winning author of Western fiction, and her newest novel, Wishing on Buttercups released February 1, and is the second in a series set in Baker City, Oregon, 1880s.

Interact with Miralee:

Website:  www.miraleeferrell.com

Facebook Author page:  www.facebook.com/miraleeferrell

Twitter: www.twitter.com/miraleeferrell

Giveaway:

To be entered to win a print copy of Wishing on Buttercups, please ask Miralee a question in the comments .  Be sure to include your email address!  Miralee would love to answer questions concerning her books, writing, publishing career, pets, or her hobbies.  She will stop by throughout the day to answer questions on the above blogs , so drop in again to read her replies!

 

Getting Started with Sourdough with Joanne Bischof

Today I wanted to share something really homey with you and by homey I mean something that truely goes with making a home and caring for our families.  My wonderfully talented sister in Christ Joanne Bischof has made us a video of how to make Sourdough Bread. I can smell it baking in the oven and just taste the wonderful goodness, Can't you ?  This is an art and a forgotten one at that, I hope you enjoy Joanne's Video and I hope you are challenged to try making this yourself !   While your thinking on warm, wonderful Home things, you will want to check out Joanne's books, they are just filled with Home, Great food and well what I call All Things Home and All Things Country !

Enjoy !!!!

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CfJIj73EMI?feature=player_embedded]

You can find Joanne at the following places to connect :

http://www.joannebischof.com

https://www.facebook.com/joannebischof

https://twitter.com/joannebischof

http://www.amazon.com/Joanne-Bischof/e/B00DVS53MS/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1392656712&sr=1-2-ent

http://www.pinterest.com/joannebischof/the-cadence-of-grace-series/

 

I hope you will check Joanne out and I have to say that I have and am totally enjoying her books ! She is an awesome stay at home mom and author !  But she is also my Christian Sister and that makes us family !

Until Later

~Linda~

~ This weeks Coming Reviews ~

Monday: Getting Started with Sourdough with Joanne Bischof

Tuesday: My interview with Author, Linda Clare ~ A Sky Without Stars

Wensday:  Barbara Cameron 's  A Road Unknown and Scraps of Evidence ! Yes two books by Barbara this week !

Thursday:

Friday:

On days when no Reviews are listed I will be trying to post other things for you to read here.  Bare with me as we are a homeschool family and in the very near future you will be reading my reviews for homeschooling curriculum  and other books by authors I love. Untill then I hope you all have a Blessed Sabbath and a Happy Lord's Day !

The Jesus Hearted Woman by Jodi Detrick

The Jesus Hearted Woman

~ 10 Leadership Qualities for Enduring & Endearing Influence ~

If you have the heart you can learn the skills.  With a blend of delightful humor and " been there" compassion, Jodi Detrick weaves together memorable stories, biblical insights, and valuable wisdom from her many years of successful leadership. Written for both new and experienced leaders, each chapter includes:

~ Coaching questions for small group discussion

~ Lessons for new leaders

~ A personal application Bible study

Jodi Detrick is an author and religion columnist for The Seattle Times. She  has a DMin degree in Leadership from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary and is an adjunct professor at Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington. Jodi is Chairperson for the national Network for Women in Ministry. She and her husband Don , live in the rainy Pacific Northwest.

Learn more about being a Jesus-hearted woman at www.jesusheartedwoman.com

~ My Review ~

On what are you basing your confidence ? Are you in turmoil over being in ministry ?  Do your women of your church need a boost to get them in the mindset to serve and be confident about it.  Remember , God chooses and uses Reluctant Leaders ~ This is a reassuring fact !   I like how Jodi leads us in lessons that bring us to a point of understanding who we are , what God wants us to be and be like.  I think its like my DH Mark said to me many years ago " Lin, its not about YOU, Its about JESUS , in you "

I can share that from personal experience, when being asked to write a column for our blog that year, I felt totally unqualified and so not worthy to share with women , as I surely didn't have it all together. Nor do I still at times think I am the best woman for the job.  But God knows each issue of my heart and each woman who needs to hear and learn from where I have been.  Jodi's book is a refreshing look at how and why the Lord can and will use you to minister to others.

It will leave you with the confidence you need in God's ability to work through you , to bring others to him. Surely he knows  the end before we do and he knows each facet of the story and how its to play out right ?   I highly recommend this book to all women.  Men could learn a lot about how to  help their wives have confidence in themselves and in God's ability to use them for his glory.  As women  we are to minister to other women and we need to learn those qualities that will draw others to us and help them to see that even if we have not got it all together, God does and when we shine the light of Christ to others, they will see their way to him and his ways.

I recieved a copy of this book from Gospel Publishing House and  myhealthychurch.com  for my honest review and have recieved no other compensation for doing so.

You can learn more about this book and other resources that go with it at: http://myhealthychurch.com/store/searchresults.cfm?StartRow=1&MaxRows=30&cat=AGMHCINDEX&mastercat=

$200 Visa Cash Card Giveaway & “Amish Roads” Facebook Party with Barbara Cameron

Elizabeth is at a crossroad. She's been given the chance to experience life outside of her community, away from the responsibility to care for her eight younger siblings, but Elizabeth Bontrager can't decide which road to take. Goshen has its charms and pressures, but Paradise, Pennsylvania, sounds . . . well, like paradise. And it's also home to her Englisch friend, Paula. Decision made. Elizabeth is Paradise bound.

But will the small town live up to its name? When Elizabeth meets Paula's friend, Bruce, she quickly learns he wants more than a friendship. And the same might be true of Saul Miller, her new boss at the country story that sells Amish products to the Englisch community. As the two compete for her attention, Elizabeth is surprised to realize she misses her family and becomes even more uncertain about where she belongs. She has a choice to make: return home or embrace this new life and possibly a new love?

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/tj3vR

About the Author: Barbara Cameron is a best-selling author who has a heart for writing about the spiritual values and simple joys of the Amish. She is the author of more than 38 fiction and nonfiction books, three nationally televised movies, and the winner of the first Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award. Barbara is a former newspaper reporter. Some of her non-fiction titles include the Everything Weddings on a Budget Book and Her Restless Heart: A Woman's Longing for Love and Acceptance. Cameron currently resides in Edgewater, Florida.

Learn more about Barbara at: http://barbaracameron.com

My Review:

    I totally enjoyed A Unknown Road.  The story of Elizabeth's plight for independence and growing up. She really desires to have a life of her own.  She wants to know what life is like , not having to tend her kinner.  She is longing for more.  You will love her caring ways.   Will she find that with Saul ? Will her parents let her go ?  Will she find true happiness with Saul ?  You will love the charm and wholesome adventure.  This was the first book I have read of Barbara's and I must say I love the way she weaves a tale.   I like the way her story flows.  What I really enjoyed is the way she incorporates the food that the Amish.  She has included a wonderful recipe section in the back of the book and that is so awesome.  After all,  What is an amish story without food, right ?  There are discussion questions as well  , that make it a wonderful book for book clubs, church ladies groups.  It will really make you think about life.  I recommend this book highly.

~ Linda ~

I have received this book for my review and honest opinion of it and I have not received anymore compensation for doing so.

Barbara Cameron is celebrating the release of A Road Unknown with a $200 Visa cash card giveaway and a fun "Amish Roads" Facebook party.

One winner will receive:

• A $200 Visa cash card


• A Road Unknown by Barbara Cameron

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 27th. Winner will be announced at Barbara's "Amish Roads" Facebook Party on February 27th. Connect with Barbara for an evening of book chat, Amish trivia, laughter, prizes, and more!

So grab your copy of A Road Unknown and join Barbara and friends on the evening of February 27th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 27th!

The Simple Woman's Book Club ~ Love Revealed by Kerry Clarensau

Title:

Love Revealed

Author:

Kerry Clarensau

I read this book in:

 Paperback format

My personal thoughts on this book:

We are always searching for the Love of God in any form as christians and I choose to do this book for

Valentines week as I love the heart filled with words on the cover and I wanted to share the

greatest Love of all time, God's Love.  I am still enjoying this book, it is a wonderful study.  Learning to

see God's Love and learning to be intimate with Him is an awesome goal for life. This book will help you discover

your Heavenly Father's :

Authentic Love

Transforming Love

Extravagant Love

Consuming Love

This would make an excellent study for womens ministry and there is a whole bunch of awesome things to go with this book.  It is one of the most awesome studies I have done in some time.

You will be blessed !  It will touch the hearts of women and  speed the healing of the heart , mind and body !

Here is a link where you can find/purchase this book:

http://myhealthychurch.com/store/startitem.cfm?item=500111&cat=AGMHCINDEX&mastercat=&path=AGMHCINDEX

A favorite quote from the book:

" What great love the Father has lavished on us ! " (I John 3:1)



Join  The Simple Woman's Book Club

http://thesimplewomansbookclub.blogspot.com/

https://www.facebook.com/thesimplewoman

New Ball Heritage Collection Green Jars – Pint and Quart

New Ball Heritage Collection Green Jars – Pint and Quart.

HOPEFUL by Shelley Shepard Gray | Win a copy!

About the book: Return to Sugarcreek, Book One

In the Amish town of Sugarcreek, love comes in many forms. But will it come at all for Miriam?

Miriam Zehr has worked at the Sugarcreek Inn longer than she cares to admit. The restaurant is a favorite of town residents as well as the many tourists who come to taste the famous Amish fare. Though she always tries to have a smile for every customer, deep down Miriam knows something's missing: a family of her own.

Miriam has never felt particularly beautiful, especially because she's always been a bit heavier than other girls her age. When Junior, the man she's pined for all her life, suddenly seeks her out, she's thrilled to be noticed . . . until she realizes he's only asking her to help get the attention of Mary Kathryn Hershberger, her pretty friend.

If Miriam helps Junior court Mary Kathryn, she'll get to spend a lot of time with him, but she might lose him in the process. Are these few stolen moments worth a lifetime of sacrifice? Is Miriam right to even hope for the life she dreams of?

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/tacpd

About the Author: Shelley Shepard Gray is a two-time New York Times bestseller, a two-time USA Today bestseller, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time Holt Medallion winner. She lives in Southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.

Learn more about Shelley at: http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com

My Review: 

    I just have to say that I love the way Shelley writes.  The Words just flow so nicely together and make for an easy read.   We find Miriam Zehr go from being single and not content in  many ways to A content woman.  How does she find contentment ?  Will she ever find her true love ? Will she ever have a family of her own ?  I loved the way Shelley adresses many issue of life in this story and I will highly recommend it to my friends and family.  I have to admit that several times in the story I become teary eyed and reached for the tissues, but I am an emotional reader.  This story will touch your heart and warm your winter nights or days.  You will love this first book in the Return to SugarCreek Series.  It is Tenderly told with honesty and each character shows so much depth to life and living.  I hope you will read this book and see just how good Shelleys books are.

I have received this book  for my honest review and have received no further compensation for doing so.

Welcome to the blog tour for Hopeful, the first book in Shelley Shepard Gray's new series, Return to Sugarcreek. Critics have already given their thumbs up for Hopeful: “Lovable characters and a good story, full of romance and suspense . . . a must read." (Library Journal)

Enter to win one of FIVE copies of the book. 

Five winners will receive:

• Hopeful by Shelley Shepard Gray

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 23rd. All winners will be announced February 24th at Shelley's blog.

Enter today and be sure to visit Shelley's blog on the 24th to see if YOU won one of the books!

Indoor Phys Ed with the Nintendo Wii !

As you know its been very cold and snowy here in the Northeast.  We felt bad that we couldn't let the kids outdoors on so many bitterly cold days and they just were sitting down doing things and not physically active.   DH decided to  buy the kids a Wii  !  I was sceptical.  I must say though that given their competitive nature , it is a good thing for them during winter time.  Well they wanted to test it out and decided to try each game through out the day...LOL

As a kid I often heard " No pain , No gain " right....smile    Well, they over did it and boy were they sore for doing so.

They were hootin and hollerin, Jumping around, Cheering and egging each other on to higher levels and It was rather a loud day !!!    Lastnight my oldest daughter said to me " Mom, my arm hurts, my elbow is killing me and it hurts all the way to my hand ".  This morning she is sore big time, but they are working it all out, soreness and stiffness that is.

Hope was sore too, but seems to be doing ok now.  Today the Wii is a little less active and its much quieter !

~ Linda~

THE CALLING | Six Chances to win an iPad, Kindle, or Nook from Suzanne Woods Fisher!

The Calling

Buy from:
Amazon
CBD
Barnes & Noble
Audio Book – Coming Soon

Read an excerpt of The Calling


The second book in the Inn at Eagle Creek series is filled with romance, family secrets and characters who are searching for fulfillment in their lives with some unexpected results. Fisher is an amazing author. She has written a believable story about those who embrace their flaws. – 4 stars from Romantic Times

About the Book:

Twenty-year-old Bethany Schrock is restless. Her love life has derailed, her faith hangs by a thread, and she is spending the incredibly hot summer days wading through a lifetime’s accumulation of junk at the home of five ancient Amish sisters. About the only thing that holds her interest is the spirited and dangerously handsome Jimmy Fisher–and he seems bent on irritating her to no end.

When the sly old sisters and a guest at the Inn get Bethany involved in running the local soup kitchen and starting a community garden, she suddenly finds herself wondering, Shootfire! How did that happen? Despite her newfound purposefulness, a gnawing emptiness about a childhood mystery continues to plague her. Encouraged by Jimmy Fisher, she will seek out the answers she craves–and uncover a shocking secret that will break her heart, heal it, and point her to love.


Download the Reader Guide

Endorsements:

Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher delivers her trademark twists, turns, and tender romance in this delightful and exciting visit to the deceptively quiet community of Stoney Ridge.

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a bestselling author of Amish fiction and non-fiction, and a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazine. The Waiting was a finalist for a 2011 Christy Award. The Choice and The Searchhave been finalists for Carol Awards. Amish Peace: Simple Wisdom for a Complicated World and Amish Proverbs: Words of Wisdom from the Simple Life were both finalists for the ECPA Book of the Year (2010, 2011).

Her interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, who was raised Plain in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. She travels back east a couple of times each year for research. For fun, too.

About Suzanne :



Suzanne has a great admiration for the Plain people and believes they provide wonderful examples to the world. She has an underlying belief in her books–you don’t have to “go Amish” to incorporate many of their principles into your life: simplicity, living with less, appreciating nature, forgiving others more readily, trusting in God.

When Suzanne isn't writing, playing tennis (badly!), or bragging to her friends about her grandbabies (so cute!), she is raising puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To her way of thinking, you just can’t take life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone’s underwear in its mouth.

Keep up on Suzanne’s latest news by receiving her e-newsletter, as well as connecting on Facebook, Twitter and her blog!

My Review:

From the Sassy , inquisitive Bethany, to the Old ladies she works for, you will be chuckling and enjoying the suspense and wondering if this girl will ever find happiness in her life.   I had to laugh as some things were personal to me .  You will love the way Suzanne really touches the home and heart in this book.  I read this  first and cannot wait to go back and finally read book 1  The Letters  to see what really happened first in this series.  I liked the story line and loved the quickly sassy character in Bethany.  Will she ended up with a broken heart ?  Will she ever find love ?  I really loved this story and highly recommend it to you my friends and readers.   I can't wait for Suzanne's next book to come out !

As usual don't forget her fun giveaway !

I recieved this book for my honest opinion and have received no further compensation from doing so.

Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher is celebrating her newest book, The Calling, by giving away TWO iPads, TWO Kindles, and TWO Nooks!

 

Two grand prize winners will receive:

• An iPad


• The Letters and The Calling by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Four second place winners will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX or a Nook HD—winner's choice!


• The Letters and The Calling by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 8th. All winners will be announced February 10th at Suzanne's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit Suzanne's blog on the 10th to see if you won one of the great prizes! (Or better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner announcement delivered to your inbox!)