Star Crossed

The Ember Gods by Andrea Pearson

2012-01-26T00:01:00.000-08:00

The blurb:

Jacob Clark has just returned from the world of Eklaron, where he frustrated the evil plans of the Lorkon and returned the magical Key of Kilenya to its rightful owners. His quest is far from over, though—Aloren is trapped in Maivoryl City by the Ember Gods, and Jacob can't return to save her until he receives the potion that will protect his team from the corrosive influence of the Lorkon.

Balancing between this new world and his own proves tricky. Not only has he started his first year of high school, but his magical abilities are bringing him too much attention. He feels pulled by both sides, hoping he'll figure out his special powers to save Aloren in time.

Pearson does a great job of weaving an imaginative tale of intrigue, action, and suspense all told from the point of view of fourteen-year-old Jacob. In this volume, Jacob’s brother Matt plays a key role, giving the reader an opportunity to see more into Jacob’s family and his regular life. I think it’s fun to see how Jacob is learning to balance his life as a human kid with his life as a super-hero (as his brother so aptly put it) in Eklaron.

The story is action packed, and fast paced, but not so much as to be exhausting, and lots of fun. I appreciate that Jacob is forced to figure things out for himself, and that the adults in his life don’t swoop in and solve problems for him, even when they’re really scary and really hard.

I’m loaning my Kindle to my 11 year old son, because this is just the kind of story he loves to read. Can’t wait to see the next book in the series!

Purchase your copy of The Ember Gods, and if you haven’t read it yet, start with The Key of Kilenya.

Learn more about author Andrea Pearson and her works.

Family by Design by Heather Justesen

2012-01-18T04:00:00.000-08:00

You might already know I’m a big fan of Heather Justesen’s work. But this one, my friends, is my very favorite to date. Why? Because it’s different. It’s like a backward love story, and I appreciate the freshness of it. Also, I adore Tucker and Reena, and the kids that bring them together, and the way they work together to create a family unlike any of them had ever dreamed.

Also, there are some amazing kissing scenes in this story—the kind that leave the reader’s heart beating a little harder. But don’t worry, it’s absolutely clean. This is such a sweet story. If you’ve never read a Heather Justesen novel, I’d start with this one. For real. It’s fantastic.

Check out the blurb:

Before he could think better of it, he blurted out, “I understand your concerns. I’m going to speak to my commander about getting an early discharge. My girlfriend, Rena, and I have talked about getting married. There just hasn’t been any rush.

As soon as the words were out of his mouth, he wondered what he was thinking. Yes, they had discussed marriage, but not to each other! He and Rena had never even dated.

Tucker’s on his way to the biggest challenge of his life. Rena already has it all—except a family of her own. But neither one expected their friendship would take such a dramatic turn.

When Tucker becomes the guardian of his newly orphaned niece and nephew, he knows he can’t handle them alone, not when he might be shipped out with the Marines at any moment. Desperate, he turns to Rena for a major favor. His marriage proposal would give her everything she wants, but can she learn to live without the romance she’s always dreamed of?

As time, prayer, and a life-changing kiss work a little magic in her heart, Rena wonders if someone up there has a plan for her that’s better than anything she could come up with on her own. And though it seems crazy at first, this could become her chance for a marriage that will last for eternity.

Also, as a special promotion for anyone who buys a book before January 31, you can get a free ebook for her companion novella, Shear Luck. Once you buy a copy of Family by Design go here to get your free copy.

As if that weren’t enough, Heather’s holding a host of giveaways on her blog throughout the next few weeks. Talk about awesome! (See the rules at the bottom of this post to enter.)

Now, just in case you aren’t sure you want a free ebook by Heather Justesen (and come on, who doesn’t want that?) here’s the blurb for Sheer Luck:

Chelsea Robison has never forgotten the older boy next door whom she crushed on as a teen, so when she runs into him at the restaurant he’s preparing to open, it’s a delightful shock. And learning he’s available again is more than a little tantalizing.

Vaughn Krenshaw had never seen his neighbor as more than a nice kid—but Chelsea had definitely grown up in the decade since they saw each other last. He’s attracted to the feisty red head, but still struggles over his wife’s death the previous year. And then there’s his five-year-old daughter, Molly, who really liked Chelsea—until she realized the woman was dating her dad.

As Chelsea starts to wonder if their love for each other will be enough to make things work, a specter from Vaughn’s past rises, making her question whether she really knew him at all.

Enter to win one of a whole slew of prizes Heather’s giving away.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you want to increase your chances, be sure to stop by these other blogs and enter there as well.

Monday, Jan. 16 Danyelle Ferguson
Tuesday, Jan. 17 Kim Job
Wednesday, Jan. 18 Nichole Giles
Thursday, Jan. 19 Liz Adair
Friday, Jan. 20 Susan Dayley
Saturday, Jan. 21 Keith Fisher
Monday, Jan. 23 Robbin Peterson
Tuesday, Jan. 24 Julie Bellon
Wednesday, Jan. 25 Cindy Hogan
Thursday, Jan. 26 Rebecca Talley
Friday, Jan. 27 Kathleen Brebes
Saturday, Jan. 28 Debbie Davis
Monday, Jan. 30 Maria Hoaglund
Tuesday, Jan. 31 Tristi Pinkston
Wednesday, Feb. 1 Joann Arnold
Thursday, Feb. 2 Christine Bryant
Friday, Feb. 3 Rebecca Blevins
Saturday, Feb. 4 Mindy Holt

Starting the Year Right

2012-01-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, I didn't read over the holiday break. Not for lack of material, mind you. Oh no, there's a stack of beautiful, exciting books sitting on my nightstand waiting for me to get to them. But I had other priorities. Like finishing a manuscript, and taking care of sick kids.

Luckily, these books of mine aren't going anywhere. And as soon as I finish the editing I started, I'm all over catching up on my reading so I can start the year right. (Beginning with the books I'm due to review this month.)

If you're wondering what's in that pile, here's a hint (just a few, as it's a long list):

Indellible by Lani Woodland
Crossed by Ally Condie
Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk
Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
Wolfsbane by Andrea Cremer
Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles
A Clash of Kings by George RR Martin
Family by Design by Heather Justesen
The Ember Gods by Andrea Pearson

Have you read any of these yet? Tell me what you thought!

The Assassination of Governor Boggs by Rod Miller

2011-12-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

I admit, I agreed to review this book because I was intrigued by the whole premise. The history surrounding the years in which this story takes place has always been of interest to me, especially since there are a lot of things (both facts and conjecture) I believe aren’t well known to those who don’t seek them out. This story definitely brought to light another side of certain stories I’d heard before.

The story (as it were) of the shooting of Governor Boggs is not one I was familiar with before now. While it’s well written and easy to read, because it’s told through the eyes of a fictional character, it’s hard to know what parts of the story are real and which are fabricated, so I’m still not quite sure how to feel about the outcome.

The factual aspects are more disturbing to me than the fictional ones, which, I believe, is what the author intended. The fact that a politician of such power and influence could issue an extermination order for an entire community of people just blows my mind. But on the other side (as Miller has eloquently explored) the Saints were not as innocent of crimes as most of us would like to believe. Miller takes us on a journey in which we must explore the multi-faceted facts (as presented through fiction) and decide for ourselves who was in the right. If anyone. Or maybe, just maybe, all parties were involved in wrongdoing.

Enter Porter Rockwell. As colorful, interesting, and frightening a character as ever truly lived. Was he really a hired gunman to the prophets of the Mormon Church? And did he actually fire the shot that almost killed Governor Boggs? And if he did, was it of his own volition, or on orders from someone else?

The one thing that bothered me in the fictional detective’s investigation is that there was another possible suspect who was named or mentioned more than once, and yet the detective never looked into that man. I felt that he came to his conclusion rather quickly, and without exploring other possibilities from which he might have gleaned more information. This might have something to do with the author not having access to the information surrounding the other suspect (a hazard of mixing fact and fiction). Despite this minor detail, this is a story worth reading, and one that will give readers food for thought about persecution in the early days of the Mormon Church.

This is definitely a book I'm recommending to other family members, or lovers of historical fiction based in this era.

Here’s the blurb:

Twenty-five years ago, Governor Lilburn Boggs was shot at his home, but the gunman was never found. Now Detective Calvin Pogue has been hired by the Boggs family to open the cold case. From one end of the country to the other Detective Pogue follows clues that lead him relentlessly to the legendary Mormon gunman, Porter Rockwell—who still isn’t making things easier for anyone.

Read more about Rod Miller on his website.
Purchase your copy of The Assassination of Governor Boggs.

Eclectic Books Holiday Catalog

2011-12-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

I don't usually post on Thursdays, like, ever. But I just have to share the link to a really awesome online catalog for anyone wanting to give books for Christmas.

The Eclectic Books catalog offers a number of fantastic, clean books, complete with blurbs and purchase links. I hope this helps you find the perfect gift for the book lover in your life.

Happy holidays!

Holiday Reading Lists

2011-11-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Being that tomorrow is Thanksgiving, I thought I'd post something a little different this week. One of the things for which I am most grateful is good books to read. And since this is a long weekend, there will be a lot of people looking to pass the time with really great books.

In case you're interested, these are the books at the top of my To Be Read pile this week:

I'm almost finished with this one. Really love Tris, the strong female protagonist, and Four, the love interest is so multi-layered that I adore him. Seriously. This is a definite must read if you like dystopian YA and don't mind some violence.

I haven't started this one yet, but am dying to get to it. I've heard it's A.Maz.Ing. Also, I think Robison Wells is da bomb. So it begs to reason that his book will be too.

Also been dying to read this one, and haven't even bought it yet. Though, I may end up at a bookstore tomorrow for this very purpose. I *heart* Ally Condie's work. And if you loved Matched, this one is supposed to be better. So. Yeah.

This one, I'm not as excited about, but my son is very excited for me to read it so we can discuss it, so I need to get it done. Also, he claims it's done in second person point of view, which is pretty much unheard of, at least by me. So I admit I'm way curious to see how I react to this style of writing.

This one has been sitting on my shelf for A YEAR, waiting for me to get to it. I bought it not long after meeting Richard Paul Evans and hearing him speak at a writer's conference. He is such a genuinely nice guy, sweet and thoughtful, and his real-life ties to his writing are practically palpable. I had to buy this book. And now I really have to read it.

What's on your holiday reading list?

Finishing the Dark C.A.R.M.A. Spotlights: Become by Ali Cross

2011-11-18T04:00:00.000-08:00

If you read my Monday and Wednesday blogs this week, you already know I’ve been spotlighting the Dark C.A.R.M.A. books this week. I’m way exited for these amazing women and their individual decisions to go INDIE with high quality work and a strong promotional push.

Today I’m spotlighting Become by Ali Cross.

I haven’t read it yet. Well, at least, not this version. I did read an older version of this book several months ago, and I loved it then. Love Desi, love Michael. Love the concept of the story. But I haven’t yet had the chance to read the newest version, but I’m really excited to get to it (as soon as I finish my NaNo project—you know, reward for accomplishment and all that). If it’s even half as good as the version I read, it’s really, really amazing.

Wanna know what it’s about? Here’s the blurb:

Sixteen-year old Desolation Black wants nothing more than to stay in Hell where it’s cold and lonely and totally predictable. Instead, she’s sent back to Earth where she must face the evil she despises and the good she always feared. When Desi is forced to embrace her inner demon, she assumes her choice has been made—that she has no hope of being anything other than what her father, Lucifer, has created her to be. What she doesn’t count on, is finding a reason to change—something she’s never had before—a friend.

A little about Ali:

I’ve always been a dreamer. When I would tell my family what new adventure I wanted to take on, they’d roll their eyes and say something like, “Oh yeah? Well let us know how that works out for you.” Meaning, of course, that no one expected my dreams to amount to much.

I wanted to be a pilot in the Canadian Air Force, a Royal Canadian Mounted Policewoman, and Prime Minister of Canada.

I wanted to be a youth minister, an opera singer, and a ballet dancer.

I wanted to be happy.

The good news is . . . not all dreams stay relegated to dreamland forever.

I was an opera singer (five years with Opera Idaho) and tried ballet for one magical summer when I was thirty years old.

And I’ve discovered new dreams that are coming true even as we speak.

And . . . I’m happy. Thanks to my family, friends and a core set of beliefs that shape my day.

It’s true, I’m a dreamer. But man, where my dreams have taken me!

And now, I'm the sansei of the writer's dojo, the author of the soon-to-be-released young adult novel BECOME, and ninja-writer extraordinaire.

It's not too late to enter to win a copy of Become. Stop by my other blog to enter!

You can get your copy of Become on Amazon or read more about Ali and all her awesomeness on her website.

Dark C.A.R.M.A. Spotlight: Bound by CK Bryant

2011-11-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Today’s Dark C.A.R.M.A. spotlight is Bound by Christine Bryant.

Every once in a while, I have the opportunity to see books (not written by me) grow from early stages to publication. This is one of those books. From the very first time I read a draft of this book, I've loved Kira, Lydia, and Octavian's story. Not only is it romantic, it's also intriguing and fun and full of adventure.

This is really a great story. Favorite moments involve a waterfall and a shirtless hottie named Octavian, a dying girl and a best friend willing to risk everything to save her, and some great kissing scenes that leave Kira—the main character—and the reader breathless.

The one thing I was sad about was the ending, because I have to wait for book 2. *frowns*

Check it out!

The blurb:

When a photo shoot ends in tragedy, Kira discovers her best friend, Lydia, has been keeping a secret. Knowing the truth, and accepting it, will change Kira’s life forever and thrust her into a world of ancient curses, magical objects, and savage enemies. What happens next will challenge everything Kira knows about her world, herself and the shape-shifting warrior she’s falling in love with. No longer the timid mouse her mother accused her of being, but a woman who finds the mental and physical strength to endure and survive.

BOUND is a heroic tale of true friendship, infinite sacrifice and untamed love.

Purchase your copy of Bound on Amazon or learn more about author C.K. Bryant on her blog.

Dark C.A.R.M.A. Spotlight: Exiled by RaShelle Workman

2011-11-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

**This week I’m spotlighting the Dark C.A.R.M.A. books, which were released last Friday. Today, I’m sharing a little about Exiled by RaShelle Workman. I haven’t read this book yet, but it looks great, don’t you think?

The blurb:

Stubborn, sixteen-year-old Princess Venus of Kelari wants one thing, to become immortal, that is, until someone exiles her to Earth, kills her irrihunter and takes her family.

Now she wants revenge.

First she’s got to get home. But before she can return to Kelari, the Gods have commanded her to help an arrogant boy named Michael find his soul mate.

Only she doesn't know the first thing about love.

Rather quickly, her inexperience with human emotion is obscured by other matters—alien-controlled psychotic teens that are out to kill her, and a government group that is set on capturing and dissecting her.

Worst of all, Venus will suffer a painful death-by-poisoning, thanks to Earth’s atmosphere, if she remains on the planet longer than one week.

Still, Venus is a Princess and she's got a plan. Surely, with her help, Michael will fall in love with a human.

But time is running out and Michael is falling for the wrong girl—her.

You can get your copy of Exiled on Amazon.
Read more about RaShelle Workman on her website.

"With a Name Like Love" by Tess Hilmo

2011-11-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness, you guys. It’s been a long time since I read a middle grade book I loved this much. I dare say Tess Hilmo's With a Name Like Love has a shot at several awards, including a Newberry. Not only is it beautifully written, the characters are so real, and so richly identifiable that you can’t help but want to both laugh and cry with them. It’s such a multi-layered story, which touches on the importance of family, parental love, the damage caused by rumors, small town mentality discouraging people from helping shunned community members, the power of music, kind words, and faith. There’s more, but you get the idea, right?

Let’s talk about Ollie. LOVE. Wait, that’s even her name. But I love that at thirteen she knows how to work, how to worry about others, and how to think about not only her feelings, but the feelings of other people as well. Also I think it’s refreshing to meet a middle grade character who has high morals and is constantly striving to make the right choice right from the beginning. The story isn’t about her learning how to be good, but rather about her learning how to use that goodness to help others and make a difference in the world. And I love the level of respect and admiration she has for her parents and sisters.

I could go on, but then I’d risk ruining your chance to experience this beautiful story for yourselves. So here’s the blurb:

When Ollie’s daddy, the Reverend Everlasting Love, pulls their travel trailer into Binder to lead a three-day revival, Ollie knows that this town will be like all the others they visit— it is exactly the kind of nothing Ollie has come to expect. But on their first day in town, Ollie meets Jimmy Koppel, whose mother is in jail for murdering his father. Jimmy insists that his mother is innocent, and Ollie believes him. Still, even if Ollie convinces her daddy to stay in town, how can two kids free a grown woman who has signed a confession? Ollie’s longing for a friend and her daddy’s penchant for searching out lost souls prove to be a formidable force in this tiny town where everyone seems bent on judging and jailing without a trial.

Find out more about author Tess Hilmo.
Purchase your copy of With a Name Like Love.

No Angel by Theresa Sneed

2011-11-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

When I first picked up No Angel to start reading, I wondered if it was going to be another angel book like so many others on the market. You know which ones I mean? Angel + person they’re guarding = forbidden romance. And yeah, those are fun stories, but I was hoping for something fresh and different, and that is exactly what I got.

Right away, I found the premise for this story fascinating and engrossing. I enjoyed watching Jonathan’s attitude change as he grew to care about the little girl Faith (whom he didn’t ever love romantically, FYI). I was really sad when the two became separated. Then the story took a turn into the underworld, wherein I learned more about Jonathan’s mortal life experience and why he was so reluctant to return to earth, even as a guardian. This was also an interesting premise, but not as engrossing as I felt the initial story was somewhat lost, and a new one told. However, the two stories did merge in the end, and the wide character arc brought to a satisfying close.

At no time did I feel like this story was limited to one particular religion, though I did recognize definite Christian origins. If you like unusual stories about guardian angels, No Angel would be a great choice for a quick, fascinating read.

The blurb:

An angel with an attitude

Jonathan Stewart is not at all happy about having to return to earth
as a guardian angel, but it's required of all post-mortal spirits to
fulfill at least one angel guardianship. Fortunately, on the Guardians
Unlimited application, he had the good sense to request a client
with early-marked-death status, so he believes that while his stay
on earth will be most unpleasant, at least it will be short.
What he doesn t know is that a spirit with EMD status can choose his or
her time of death! Jonathan's client, Celeste Knight, has a mind of
her own and refuses death at every turn, leaving him stuck as her
guardian angel in a place he only wanted to forget.

Learn more about author Theresa Sneed and her publisher, Walnut Springs Press.
Purchase your copy of No Angel.

Identity by Betsy Love

2011-10-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Before I start, I feel the need to go on a little side-jaunt into cover-cover-land for a second. Seems like I’ve mentioned this before, but people, Walnut Springs has produced some absolutely beautiful covers for their books. I am constantly impressed. Look at that (points to the cover above)! Is it not gorgeous? Yeah. So was Lydia and Pride and Popularity and Hang ‘em High. So hats off to the art department at Walnut Springs.

Okay, now onto the real review of Identity.

I’ve always been intrigued by the idea that everyone has a twin somewhere in the world, and Betsy Love did a great job of using this idea to weave a plot of danger and mystery, with nice little doses of sweetness and spirituality. I liked that we were able to see the story unfold from several different points of view, as it gave the story depth and tension that otherwise wouldn’t have been possible.

Favorite scene: a mud fight between Savannah and her brother Shawn in which Haley’s new lavender suit becomes a victim. The family dynamic there gave me even more reason to love the characters to which I’d already become attached.

Since the identity switch theme has been recently done a few times, it was hard to feel like this was a fresh new idea. However, it was done in a completely different way and with enough tension that I was able to forgive the things that felt too similar or familiar. Admittedly, I was somewhat bothered by the bad-guy character (who shall remain nameless to prevent spoilers) who was falsely Mormon, but somehow held a temple recommend and planned (in more than one place in the story) to use it. That part was difficult to believe, and pulled me out of the story when it was brought up. But all in all, I enjoyed it nonetheless.

If you’re looking for a clean read filled with intrigue and mysterious tension, I recommend you pick up a copy of Identity and get reading.

The blurb:

While vacationing in Mexico, two similar-looking young women find themselves caught in a chain reaction of mistaken identities. Amelia is a wealthy heiress and business owner, and Savannah is a sweet Mormon girl deciding whether or not to serve a mission. When they end up on the same flight to Phoenix, Savannah and Amelia unravel the sequence of events that wreaked havoc on their trips, and they make plans to resolve the subsequent misunderstandings. But their flight is cut short when the plane crashes, killing one of the young women and plunging the other into a world of intrigue and deceit where identity means everything.

Purchase your copy of Identity by Betsy Love.
Find out more about the works of Betsy Love.
See what’s happening at Walnut Springs Press.

Lydia by Wanda Luce

2011-10-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by saying that I am a big fan of Regency period romance, however, I am not so much a fan of regency period language in storytelling. I love Jane Austen stories, but really struggle with her writing style because it is so flowery and descriptive. Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against description and beautiful words. I just mostly prefer that the unnecessary ones be left out of a story. It’s definitely tricky to find a balance in writing Regency-style pieces for a modern-day audience.

That said, I went into reading this book with a degree of caution. Luckily, while the language was wordier than your average modern young adult novel (which is the main bulk of my reading list) it was also much more understandable than I expected for a Regency. So while the story started out a bit on the slow side for me, I felt compelled to keep reading and was soon drawn in enough to stay up past my bedtime to finish.

I really enjoyed getting to know the main character, Lydia. Loved her spunk and fortitude, as well as her dedication. I also enjoyed getting to know Connor Denton, even though he—like a typical male—took far too long to make up his mind about what he really wanted.

If I were to get nitpicky, I’d say I wished the main conflict between the two had been a bit stronger, and that I’d had more opportunity to better know some of the other characters in the story. I was interested and intrigued by Charles and Suzan, and what happened behind the scenes with them, as well as Lord Denton’s family and the dynamics there. Also, the romantic in me wished that the ending had been a tad more difficult and lasted just a tiny bit longer, maybe given one more scene at the…well, I’m not one to give spoilers, so I’ll have to leave you hanging. Let’s just say an event and leave it at that. But it’s entirely possible I wished that because I wasn’t ready for the story to end. So take it as you will.

All in all, Lydia was a fun, romantic story with a Jane Austen flavor that will keep your little Regency fan’s heart pitter-pattering with the sweetness of forbidden, unrealized love.

The blurb:

Will Lydia ever find love?

At six and twenty, Lydia Hathaway has endured years of heartbreak, longing for a love that never came. Her deceased father's foolhardiness has left her family bankrupt, and Lydia is eventually left no alternative but to take a position as the governess to Susan Ashcroft of Danbury Park in Surrey. Anxious for peace, Lydia rambles early one morning across the muddy wilds of
the Ashcroft estate, where she has a most unimaginable encounter with the notorious Lord Connor Denton.

As their paths continue to cross, Lydia falls ever deeper in love with the charming rogue while battling against his growing assault on her heart. In spite of his forward attentions, she considers his behavior toward her as nothing less than idle flirtation. And why should she think otherwise? As the wealthy son of an earl, Lord Denton may choose from among the most beautiful women of England's first circles. Tormented in a relentless battle to suppress a love she cannot overcome, Lydia resolves to leave the Ashcrofts and Danbury Park forever. After all, she is nothing to Denton…isn't she?

You can learn more about Wanda Luce and her work on her blog, or more about Lydia and other books like this one on the Walnut Springs blog.

Purchase your copy of Lydia.

Everneath by Brodi Ashton

2011-10-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Debut author Brodi Ashton is about to make a splash on the publishing world with this breathtaking, heart-wrenching, beautiful story of love, loss, and sacrifice. This story is unlike any I’ve read recently, with a unique format that essentially tells two stories at once, and characters that start out raw and aching right from the beginning.

Oh my gosh, you guys, I loved it. Seriously. It’s not even out yet (January—count down with me) but I can’t wait for the next one in the series. The main character Nikki (great name, don’t you think? *winks*) starts out the story as a complete mess, and throughout the whole thing, all you want is for her love interest, Jack, to take her in his arms and make her better. Except really, he can’t. And the hardest part is when you realize he would. That he would do anything to help Nikki, even with Cole pulling at her using every means at his disposal.

Check out the Blurb:

Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath, where immortals Feed on the emotions of despairing humans. Now she's returned- to her old life, her family, her friends- before being banished back to the underworld... this time forever.

She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.

Nikki longs to spend these months reconnecting with her boyfriend, Jack, the one person she loves more than anything. But there's a problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who first enticed her to the Everneath, has followed Nikki to the mortal world. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back- this time as his queen.

As Nikki's time grows short and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she's forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's...

Doesn’t it sound just fantastic? I assure you, it is. If you’re smart (and I know you are) you’ll put this book at the top of your must read list for 2012. In fact, you should just pre-order it here. It’s even a great price.

To hold you over until then, you can learn more about Brodi Ashton by reading her blog or the Everneath page on the publisher's website.

Fall by Jennifer Hurst

2011-10-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

Look, Fall has a new cover!

Unexpected and unique, this story was a fun read that surprised me in many ways. I enjoyed the way the story developed and came to like the main character for how hard she tried to fit into an industry dominated by men. The angels and demons angle is not a new one, but was handled in a way different from other books I’ve read. I did have a few nitpicks in the overall wordiness of certain areas, but did enjoy the story as a whole.

Here’s the blurb:

Women and construction shouldn't mix. At least, that is what the client, Mr. Blackwell, thinks when twenty-one year old Julia Dayle Halstead is promoted to project manager to remodel a turn-of-the-century schoolhouse into a bed and breakfast. However, the schoolhouse contains a dark secret that has been hidden for nearly a hundred years. A secret that will unleash the Furies of Hell and cause the Angels in Heaven to weep as ethereal brothers, Matthew and Nathan battle over Julia's very soul.

Purchase your copy of Fall.
Read Jennifer Hurst’s blog.

And now for a contest!

In conjunction with this blog tour, Jennifer is holding a contest. It will involve any of the blogs that Jennifer visits or where her book is featured and will close on December 31st, 2011. The entrants have to answer three questions about the book they’ve read (bought, borrowed, or stolen - shame on you) and post a link to Jennifer's website on their Twitter, Facebook, or blog (need link for verification).

Then the names will be entered in a random generator and announced on Jennifer's website on January 31st, 2012. The winner will receive a gift certificate for a night’s stay at the actual bed and breakfast where the story takes place.

Other prizes include an autographed copy of FALL, and she will randomly select 3 contestants’ names to use in the sequel to FALL. Plus, they will receive a free copy of that book when it is published.

Each blog Jennifer Hurst visits will have a different set of questions people can answer, and they may enter as many times as they want - but they can enter once per blog site that they visit. So the more sites you visit, the more you can enter your name, thus increasing your chances of winning the gift certificate, a copy of the book FALL, and your name in the sequel.

Get the book, read the book, and then read over the questions below. Once you have your answers, e-mail them to Jennifer. fall.jenniferhurst@gmail.com

Your privacy is respected and your email address will NOT be used for anything but the contest. Once the contest is over - your email address will be deleted from the database.

Here are the questions for you to answer:

1. Who healed JD’s broken ankle?
2. Finish the sentence "Look Daddy. Teacher said that every time a bell rings…"
3. What did JD buy Stacey for Christmas?

If you would like to visit the other sites click here.

The Armor of Light by Karen Hoover

2011-10-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

First of all, I have to preface this review by pointing out that this book is the second in a series, so it’s important to get your hands on a copy of The Sapphire Flute and read it before you move on to The Armor of Light.

Second, oh man. Karen Hoover has done a fantastic job of packing so much into this story, but it’s done in such a way that you just can’t stop reading. This is one of those un-put-down-able books that you keep thinking about for days after you finish it. I don’t know if I’ve said it before, but Karen has such a poetic, beautiful way with words. She draws you in until you love all the characters (even the bad guys), the beautiful world in which they live, the magic…oh, the magic. It’s just incredible.

You can’t help but identify with Ember, who has such a responsibility on her shoulders, who has endured such loss and confusion and heartache, and who is for the first time experiencing romantic feelings toward DeMunth, her protector. And Kayla, with her love for Brant, and her confusion over another man who is vying for her heart—love this dynamic. The romantic aspects just heighten the stakes in the story.

Here’s the blurb:

Ember has been accepted into the mage academy, but not without cost. She has gained a new enemy, ancient and dark, whose entire purpose is to destroy all white magic and her along with it. After nearly losing her life in a brutal attack, DeMunth is assigned her guardian, and the keystone he wears, The Armor of Light, begins the transition that will make it a true power.

Kayla has lost most everything of importance to her—the people, the prestige, and all she fought for the past ten years. With nothing left to lose, she continues her search for the birthplace of The Sapphire Flute and the Wolfchild she believes to be its player. Her journey will take her to strange, foreign, and often dangerous places, and everything she had thought to be true will be proven wrong.

In a showdown full of betrayal and heroic loss, Ember and Kayla finally meet on the battlefield, fighting a war on two fronts—against C'Tan and her people, and the mysterious enemy bent on destroying all magic—the shadow weavers.

The story is full of power, betrayal, hope, and love. The elements of the universe are coming together, and none can know who will stand in the end.

If you ask me, everyone should read this series. But in case you’re unsure, read a sample of The Sapphire Flute or The Armor of Light.

Purchase your Nook, Kindle, or paperback copy of The Sapphire Flute.
Purchase your Nook, Kindle, or paperback copy of The Armor of Light.

Read author Karen Hoover's blog.

"Hang ‘Em High" by Tristi Pinkston

2011-09-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

I just have to say it. Tristi Pinkston has done it again. Ida Mae and the girls have stepped into another hilarious mystery, determined to lasso the culprit and save the world—all before church starts on Sunday. As has been the case with the first two books in this series, I had a fantastic time hanging out with the Secret Sisters and laughing at their antics as they solved the mystery behind the murders of Keith’s prized stud horses.

The snappy dialogue and poignant emotion has made me a dedicated fan of Ida Mae, Tansy, and Arlette. Well, actually, that’s unfair of me to say, unless I also include George, Eden, and Kevin. And let’s not forget Ren, who is all too yummy to not be involved in this story (but I suspect he’ll make a reappearance as a return missionary before too long.)

Just for a few hints of what you can expect, in this volume, Arlette and Tansy convince Ida Mae to purchase a pair of jeans. She also rides a horse for the first time, and once during the night, in her flannel pajamas. George charters a plane and brings Eden and Kevin to the dude ranch. Just to name a few.

Here’s the blurb:

When Ida Mae Babbitt receives an invitation to visit her son Keith's dude ranch in Montana, she's excited to mend their broken relationship, but not so excited about spending time with cows. Arlette and Tansy go along with her, ready to take a vacation that does not involve dead bodies or mysteries of any sort - one must have a break from time to time. But it seems a no-good scoundrel has moseyed into Dodge City and is bent on causing all sorts of trouble for the ranch. Unable to keep her curiosity in check - especially when it seems her own son is the most likely culprit - Ida Mae decides to investigate. Can she lasso the varmint and get him to the sheriff in time?

To celebrate the release of Tristi's eighth book, she's holding a contest! If you leave a comment on this review, you will be entered into a drawing for a free manuscript evaluation, done by Tristi Pinkston Editing. In fact, you can leave comments on all the blogs participating in this virtual book tour! Go to Tristi Pinkston's blog at http://www.tristipinkston.blogspot.com for a list. The deadline is October 5th at midnight MST. If you win and you're not a writer, you can give this evaluation to a friend.

Purchase your copy of Hang Em High (a great deal today!). You might also need Secret Sisters and Dearly Departed.

Learn more about Tristi Pinkston or read her blog.

Pride and Popularity by Jenni James

2011-09-27T21:45:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while you find a book that has a cute cover and interesting premise, but you aren’t sure you'll love it, for one reason or another. That’s kind of what I thought when I picked up Pride and Popularity. Luckily, this was one of those super quick, really fun reads that I found surprisingly refreshing. It’s different than a lot of current YA books, in that it is light hearted and fun, but the characters are of the lovable, identifiable variety we always hope to find. And yeah, I did kind of love it.

This new twist on the Jane Austen classic follows the same formula as the original, but with contemporary characters and situations. The best part is though it’s contemporary, this book is completely free of unsavory language or blushable scenes I wouldn’t want my kids to read, but has ample sexual tension and a satisfying kissing scene that leaves the reader breathless (which, coming from me, is high praise indeed).

Nitpicks:

There are a couple small scenes in which a young character has dialogue for which the author used strong dialect writing. I can jump on board with child dialect on a very, very limited basis before it pulls me out of the story. As I am looking forward to the next book by this author, I hope she will be sparing with future use of childish dialect.

As you can see, even my nitpicks are, well, just that. And definitely wouldn’t keep me from reading future works by this author. In fact, I look forward to Northanger Abby, which (I believe) is due for release in the next few months.

Ladies and gentlemen, Jenni James is an author to keep on your to-read list. That is all.

Here’s the blurb:

Chloe Elizabeth Hart despises the conceited antics of the popular crowd, or more importantly, one very annoying self-possessed guy, Taylor Anderson, who seems determined to make her the president of his fan club! As if! Every girl in the whole city of Farmington, New Mexico, is in love with him, but he seems to be only interested in Chloe. This modern high school adaptation of Pride and Prejudice is a battle of wits as Chloe desperately tries to remain the only girl who can avoid the inevitable falling for Taylor.

Buy your copy of Pride and Popularity.
Learn more about the author or read her blog.
Keep up with works published by Walnut Springs Press.

Bloodborne by Gregg Luke

2011-09-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

The blurb:

One ordinary afternoon, research specialist Dr. Erin Cross steps into a local deli to get some lunch, and nearly takes a bullet instead. Thanks to the timely intervention of a former Marine, she walks away from the seemingly freak incident. But when she returns to find her lab under security lockdown and her apartment ransacked, she realized the attack was anything but random. Erin can’t make sense of the threat, given her low profile after a disastrous H1N1 vaccine trial. She doesn’t know her former colleague has used the virus to develop a potent bioweapon or that her recent research hold a key to his success. And she doesn’t know that his collaborators want her dead before she blows the whistle.

Fleeing for safety with her research in hand, Erin unravels the threats with the help of the timely Marine, former Special Ops agent Sean Flannery. But the closer they come to finding answers, the more questionable Sean’s behavior becomes. His erratic moods and suspicious communications are more fitting for an enemy than a friend. And as the crisis comes to a head, Erin can’t be sure who harbors more secrets—the bioterrorists pursuing her or the one man who can give her protection.

This story was fast paced, intriguing, with twists and turns that kept me guessing all the way through. The scary part, for me, is the realism. That this type of thing could happen in today's world is completely nerve-wracking. Bloodborne is a chilling medical thriller that will keep your heart pounding and your blood pumping with anxiety as you carry this terrifying book around with you because you can't put it down.

Purchase your copy of Bloodborne.
Learn more about Gregg Luke and his works on his website.

Want to hear what others thought? Visit these virtual tour stops:

August 16^th – Wendy Hines http://ww.mindingspot.blogspot.com

August 24^th – Rachelle Christensen http://www.rachellewrites.blogspot.com/

August 25^th – Sarah M. WorkadayReads.com

August 26^th Cami Checketts http://camicheckettsbooks.blogspot.com

August 30^th – Heidi Durant http://ldwmagazine.com/

August 31^st - David West http://www.david-j-west.blogspot.com/

September 6^th – Abel Keogh http://www.abelkeogh.com/blog/

September 7^th - Mindy Holt http://www.ldswbr.com

September 9^th – Nichole Giles http://starcrossedbookreviews.blogspot.com/

September 10^th – Shari Bird http://sharibird.blogspot.com/

September 13^th: Julie Bellon http://LDSWriterMom.blogspot.com

September 12^th: Teri Rodeman http://terirodeman.blogspot.com

September 24^th: Braden Bell http://www.bradenbell.com/bradens-blog.html

September 26^th – Alice Gold http://imsofunny.blogspot.com/

September 29^th – Michelle Hutchinson http://edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com/

Winner of 101 Gourmet Cake Bites by Wendy Paul!

2011-08-28T23:15:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I did a bad thing. I posted this contest, and a few days later went out of town to a convention and never realized I didn't put a closing date on it. My bad. And I'm so sorry for leaving you all hanging like that. Hope you'll forgive me. But. I do have to end the contest at some point, so I called it good at midnight last night.

But if you're dying to enter another contest, don't worry. I'll make sure to direct you to more soon. I give stuff away regularly. Anyway, on to the winner.

*gets out pen and tally calculator*

*scrolls to the random generator located on the sidebar of my other blog*

*enters numbers*

And the winner is...

Jalayne Engberg!

Yayayayayayaclapclapclapclapdancesingclapcheerdancesingclapclapclap!

Jalayne, I'll email you this week for your information and have the publisher get your book sent out.

Thanks for playing, everyone.

101 Cake Bites by Wendy Paul

2011-08-10T01:00:00.000-07:00

Holy cow, you guys. There’s a party going on in my mouth.

According to my daughter: These make me want to sing and dance.

So if you’re into trendy, sweet treats that are easy to bake at home (as opposed to the ones you see created on the Food Network, and that don’t look nearly as delicious as these) you’ve GOT to check out Wendy Paul’s books.

This newest one, 101 Gourmet Cake Bites comes complete with instructions for creating delicious, easy-to-make delicacies that are nothing short of mouthwateringly sinful. Well, maybe not sinful, because then I might get struck by lightning for blogging about them. But they certainly look and taste like that.

If you ever plan to entertain others in a party-type environment (birthdays, holidays, personal celebrations, critique group meetings, Fridays at the office, etc), any one of Wendy Paul’s 101 series books will make you look like a fully trained baker. (Like Peeta Melark!) Impressive? Absolutely.

But here’s the best part. It’s your lucky day, because I feel like celebrating the release of 101 Gourmet Cake Bites. And how will I celebrate? By giving away a hard-cover copy, of course (nice of me, because I considered waiting until Christmas, but I’m just so excited I couldn’t wait). To enter the contest, feel free to do any (or all) of the following, for one point each, and then fill out the form telling me what you’ve done. (Filling out the form is required, as the winner’s name will be drawn from that list. Everything else is optional as long as you do one of them.)

1. Follow this blog.
2. Follow my other blog.
3. Follow Wendy Paul’s blog.
4. Like Wendy Paul’s FB page or follow her on Twitter.
5. Spread the word about this contest (1 point per tweet or FB update linking to this post—up to 3 per day.)
The contest starts now, and will close on Saturday, August 13th at midnight, Mountain Time. In the meantime, get to a bookstore and order Wendy’s other books 101 Gourmet Cupcakes and 101 Gourmet Cookies.
6. Comment here or on Wendy's blogs about how much you LOVE books of hers you already own or recipes of hers you've tried.

The infamous form:
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Gotta go eat more of these delicious candies…I mean, cake bites…I mean sinful, delectable treats. You know you want some.

Calendar of tour stops can be found here: http://www.cedarfortbooks.com/cake-bites-blog-tour/

Super-Spectacular, Uber-Fun Party/Event—You’re Invited!

2011-08-08T01:01:00.000-07:00

I don’t know if you’ve been to my events page or not, but this week I’m participating in an uber-cool, super-de-duper fun event in celebration of the launch of the newest Tristi Pinkston release in the Secret Sisters series, Hang ‘em High. Now, you know I’m not a blogger who frequently uses this space as an advertisement, so it should say a lot about how excited I am that I’m shouting about it here.

So check. This. Out. (Yeah, I took a picture of the flier--so shoot me.)

Did you see my name on that list of authors? Yeah. Not only will I be signing, but also handing out balloons and candy and whatever else needs doing. So come say hi. Bring your friends. And your neighbors. And your kids and their friends. And your extended family members. And when you meet me, tell me you read about this event on my blog. I *may* have a special treat just for my readers. Cuz I love you all so much.

Hope to see you there!

The Key of Kilenya by Andrea Pearson

2011-08-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Blurb:

When two vicious wolves chase fourteen-year-old Jacob Clark down a path from our world into another, his life is forever changed. He has no idea they have been sent by the Lorkon--evil, immortal beings who are jealous of powers he doesn't know he possesses--powers they desire to control.

The inhabitants of the new world desperately need Jacob's help in recovering a magical key that was stolen by the Lorkon and is somehow linked to him. If he helps them, his life will be at risk. But if he chooses not to help them, both our world and theirs will be in danger. The Lorkon will stop at nothing to unleash the power of the key--and Jacob's special abilities.

My thoughts:

When I was first asked to review The Key of Kilenya, I believed it a young adult story that was as much romance as adventure. To my delighted surprise, I realized that it is actually more of a middle grade adventure story which is appropriate for fans of books like Fablehaven and the Far World series. This is a good thing, IMO, because there just aren’t nearly enough fun adventure stories available for kids of this age. (And by this age, I mean too old for kid books, but not quite into dark, heavy YA that is so prominent in the market lately. Mainly the 10-14 age group.) And FYI, even though it contains a girl / boy relationship, it's not really a romance (a relief to my MG reader son).

It’s clean, well written, and packed with adventure in a way that makes the chapters fly by until you realize you’re almost at the end. And then you’re sad to realize the adventure is over, and relieved to discover it's the first of a series so there will be more adventures to come.

I enjoyed Jacob’s story tremendously. And now I will pass to my 11 year old son so he can enjoy it too.

Purchase The Key of Kilenya as an ebook or paperback.

Learn more about author Andrea Pearson by reading her blog or website.

Want to know what others thought? Check out these reviews:

August 1st: Jenni James

August 5th: Tamera Westhoff

August 8th: Gail Zuniga

August 10th: Cindy Hogan

August 12th: Canda Mortensen

August 13th: Lynn Parsons

August 19th: Heather Justesen

August 25th: John Waverly

Hang-em High: Tristi Pinkston's newest volume of the Secret Sisters series

2011-07-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

Author Tristi Pinkston is excited to announce the release of the third novel in her Secret Sisters Mysteries series.

Titled Hang ‘em High, this novel takes place on a dude ranch in Montana. When Ida Mae’s son invites her to come for a visit, of course she brings Arlette and Tansy along with her. They are expecting to spend the week looking at horses, avoiding the cows, and making amends in Ida Mae’s relationship with her son. What they don’t expect is to be stuck on the ranch in the middle of a blizzard and to be thrust headlong into the middle of a mystery.

***

Help Tristi celebrate her new novel in two ways. First, come participate in the two-week-long blog contest, where you can win a book nearly every single day! All the details are up on Tristi’s blog.

Second, come to the book launch!

You are invited to an

August Authorama!

Saturday, August 13th

Pioneer Book, 858 S. State, Orem

12 – 4 pm

Games, prizes, balloons, face painting,

and Dutch oven cobbler

prepared by world champion cook

Keith Fisher.

Authors Tristi Pinkston, J. Lloyd Morgan, Cindy Hogan,

Nichole Giles, and Heather Justesen

will all be there to sign books.

This is one book launch event

you will not want to miss!

"Watched" by Cindy Hogan

2011-07-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Check out this cover! Intriguing, huh?

The blurb:

It takes more than a school trip to Washingotn, D.C. to change fifteen-year-old Christy’s life. It takes murder.

A witness to the brutal slaying of a Senator’s aide, Christy finds herself watched not only by the killers and the FBI, but also by two hot boys.

She discovers that if she can’t help the FBI, who want to protect her, it will cost her and her new friends their lives.

My synopsis:

When socially awkward Christy wins a scholarship and takes the trip of a lifetime, she has no idea what she’s in for. First, she’s thrust into a group with beautiful rich kids—who actually treat her like an equal. Then, after sneaking out one night, she and her friends witness a brutal murder (FYI, this one scene is somewhat graphic), after which none of them will ever be the same. The bad guys are watching. The FBI is watching. But amid all that, Christy discovers that two really hot boys are also watching, and considering her non-existent experience with boys, she has no idea how to deal with any of it.

This story is entertaining with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing up to the very end. A quick and fun summer read.

The awesome contest:

Cindy is giving away a $10 Amazon gift card to one lucky new blog follower (her blog, not mine—although, I’d LOVE to have you follow mine too. Cuz I have great taste in books. Just sayin). The catch is that you have to leave her a comment telling her on which blog you read about this contest (meaning, you tell her I sent you). If a lot of you do this, I also have a chance to win a prize. So run over to her blog, follow, and tell her I sent you. Because you love me, right? Okay.

More info you need to know:

Purchase Watched for Nook. (Bargain price at $2.99!)
Purchase Watched for Kindle. (Same bargain price as above!)
Purchase a paperback copy of Watched.

Learn more about Cindy Hogan and the Watched series. (Don’t forget to leave a comment and tell her I sent you!)

A bunch of other people blogged about Watched this week too. Don’t forget to check out what they had to say about it!

July 18th http://lisaannturner.wordpress.com/ -Lisa Ann Turner

http://www.ldswomensbookreview.com/wordpress/ LDS Women's Book Review

http://sumossweetstuff.blogspot.com/ Sumo's Sweet Stuff

July 19th http://candamortensen.blogspot.com/ Canda's Inkblast

July 20th http://teenbookguide.blogspot.com/ Teen Book Guide

July 21st http://fireandicephoto.blogspot.com/ Fire and Ice

(dis)Abilities and the Gospel

2011-07-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

As you might have noticed, I don’t generally review nonfiction books. But every once in a while, one comes along, and it’s so important, the information inside it so needed or so special, that I can’t wait to tell my readers all about it. This is one of those books.

A disclaimer: I am not a parent to a child with a disability. However, I know many, many children—and even adults—who learn or behave or whose brains work differently than what might be considered normal. And I believe each of these individuals is a very special child of God.

The blurb:

Each day, parents and Church leaders struggle to teach individuals with special needs. Using real-life stories and a touch of humor, this inspiring book guides you to teach effectively, overcome communication barriers, and build strong relationships with people of all ages with disabilities. Discover each person's ability to learn and grow as you help them feel like a valuable part of your life.

This book is a fantastic resource to help leaders and instructors of any religious class or situation better teach, interact with, and understand individuals with special needs. Each chapter outlines a different phase of several different cognitive disabilities, including ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum, behavioral difficulties, Bipolar Disorder, Down Syndrome, intellectual disabilities, and other mental illnesses, and is mapped out in such a way that makes reference quick and easy.

But most importantly, the information reminds us all how important it is for each individual person we work with to feel welcome, loved and appreciated. As far as I’m concerned, that alone is invaluable.

Purchase your copy.
Learn more about coauthor Lynn Parsons.
Learn more about coauthor Danyelle Ferguson.

Enter to win one of two $25 Amazon gift cards! One name will be drawn for a $25 Amazon gift card on June 30^th. Another name will be drawn for a $25 Amazon gift card on July 22nd. Winners will be announced on www.QueenOfTheClan.com There are many ways to enter. You must leave a comment on the reviewer’s blog letting us know what you’ve done. Please include your email address.

1 Point Each:

- Leave a thoughtful comment about the blogger’s review.

- Add the book to your “to-read” list on GoodReads

- Follow the reviewer’s blog

- Follow Danyelle’s blog

- Follow Lynn’s blog

- Follow Danyelle on FB

- Follow Lynn on FB

- Follow Danyelle on Twitter @DanyelleTweets

- Follow Lynn on Twitter @ParsonsLynn

2 Points Each:

- Tell your friends about (dis)Abilities and the Gospel on Facebook with a person links to Danyelle Ferguson & Lynn Parsons

- Tell your friends about (dis)Abilities and the Gospel on Twitter with links to @DanyelleTweets

5 Points:

- Interview Danyelle or Lynn for your blog or write a blog post about why you’re excited about (dis)Abilities and the Gospel. Be sure to leave a direct link to your post in your comment so we can visit and say hello!

Blog Tour Schedule

June 2nd - Christine Bryant @ Day Dreamer

June 7th - Tristi Pinkston

June 9th - Tamera @ 3 Boys & a Dog

June 14th - Ashlee @ Topsy Turvy Cakes

June 17th - Heather Justesen

June 23rd - Rebecca Talley

June 27th - Don Carey

July 6th - Danette @ Everyday Adventures

July 8th - Sheila Staley @ LDS Women's Book Review

July 11th - Kathy @ I Am a Reader, Not a Writer

July 13th - Jessica @ Fringies

July 15th - Heather @ Fire and Ice by Little Red Reads

July 18th - Nichole Giles @ Star Crossed Book Reviews

Good luck!

Blank Slate by Heather Justesen

2011-07-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Blank Slate by Heather Justesen

I know this is totally irrelevant to what’s inside a book, but I just have to mention this beautiful cover. I LOVE the piano and the shoes. And the color contrasts are just stunning.

Okay, I’m done drooling over the shoes.

If you’ve read any of my previous reviews, you should already know that there’s nothing I love more than a good romance. Well, okay, there might be one thing I like more, and it’s a good kissing scene. Let’s face it—not all kissing scenes are created equally. They just can’t all be well written enough to make your heart pound. But. Heather Justesen is a master of both kissing scenes and sweet (yet clean) romance.

*sighs with contentment*

Blank Slate is my kind of book, people. If you haven’t noticed, I’m already a fan of Heather Justesen’s work, and have been for quite some time. I really love all her stuff. But. Blank Slate is different from her other two. The unique premise is intriguing and fresh, and the characters completely, utterly lovable. Without adding spoilers, I can only say that the premise and the characters together make for a tense, heart-wrenching story of longing, and love, and a journey of self-discovery we all hope to never experience ourselves.

Justesen is a master of using words to evoke strong emotions within readers, and the lives of her complex characters twist and turn in so many interesting directions that you simply can’t put the story down. Be forewarned: You will read this fast.

Here’s the blurb:

Adrianna Mueller may be a world-renowned concert pianist, but when she wakes from her coma after a serious car accident, her ability to perform has disappeared as completely as her lost memory. As she recovers from her injuries, she struggles with the expectations of everyone—her family, friends, and fiancé, Brock—who all want everything to go back to the way it was.

Everyone except Gavin, Adrianna’s brother’s business partner, who finds himself drawn to the woman she is now. But he has his own problems. As he tries to get a handle on a former employee’s embezzlement, he fights his growing feelings for Adrianna.

And then a trip to the emergency room shakes everything up, leaving her to stumble as she tries to regain her footing all over again.

Sounds fantastic, right? It is. But don’t take my word for it. Head on over to Heather Justesen’s website and read an excerpt from Blank Slate so you can judge for yourself.

Want to know more about the works of Heather Justesen? Watch her blog for regular announcements and updates.

Impatient? You can purchase Blank Slate in paperback, for your Kindle, or other e-reader format.And the best part? Through the month of July, this special code WV49Z will get you your ebook copy at Smashwords for $1.49! Yes, I am aware that price is insane for a new book. Yes, you are just that lucky.And no, you have no excuses left to NOT hurry over and order this book right away.

When you're finished reading, don't forget to come back and tell me what you thought. I'd love to know.

Ammon by H.B. Moore

2011-06-26T17:40:00.000-07:00

I’m just going to say it. Heather (aka H. B.) Moore has done it again with her newest release, Ammon. She has this incredible ability to take the two-dimensional historic heroes of the scriptures and turn them into real human beings—ones we can understand and with whom we can empathize, and even love.

Her interpretations of these stories are so faith promoting, people! Seriously.

In case you haven’t already read them, you should check out my reviews of some of Heather’s previous books here, here, and here. But if you’re really that far behind in your historical reading, um. Wow. You should really get to work on catching up. H.B. Moore’s work is MUST READ material.(To get your hands on the whole prophet series, or her previous series, Out of Jerusalem, H.B. Moore's website is a good place to start.)

Here’s the blurb for Ammon:

With the fire of newfound testimony, Ammon and his brethren leave Zarahemla to preach the gospel in Lamanite lands, carrying nothing but hunting weapons and the promises of God. Spotted by an enemy scout, they part ways in the dense jungle with hopes of reuniting at the close of their harvest. Ammon follows the Spirit to the borders of Ishmael, where he’s ambushed just seconds after spotting Elena, a fair-skinned woman who captures his interest.

As Ammon gains reknown in the kingdom, he defends Elena from the advances of Gad, the loathsome widower she’ll soon be required to marry. Then swearing allegiance to the Lamanite king and trusting in the Lord, Ammon further proves his strength and devotion by sparing King Lamoni’s flocks from plunderers. The amazed king and his court are converted to the gospel through Ammon’s powerful teachings and the miraculous events that follow, but each action Ammon takes causes more and more disruption throughout the kingdom. And when Elena is abducted by her own brother and hidden away in an unspeakable place, Ammon faces his greatest struggle yet: not just the outward challenge of lethal combat but also the inward challenge of loving one’s enemy.

This is my favorite of the Book of Mormon prophet series. It took me a while to figure out why, but after discussing it with my father-in-law, I realized that it probably has to do with the romance factor. Because there are parts of this book that are beautifully romantic. Oh, and also because the way this is written, it’s easy to see Ammon as the strong-willed, muscular hero who chopped off the arms of the sheep-thieves at Sebus, and then turned around and converted the Lamanite king.

It may sound somewhat blasphemous *cringes, watching for lightning* but if I were a single woman during that era, I would totally have dated Ammon. Just sayin.

Anyway, if you don’t want to take my word for it, check out the first two chapters for FREE.(Be sure to click the excerpt tab.)

And in case that isn’t enough, here’s the trailer.

Read more about the author, H. B. Moore at her website or blog.

Purchase your copy of Ammon by H. B. Moore.

Go. Read. Believe.

That is all.

Michael and Leesie Forever, part II

2011-06-22T04:01:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh, people. I just read the best series. Seriously. It all starts with Taken by Storm. (You can read my thoughts about this book here.) Unbroken connection is a continuation of Michael and Leesie’s love story, and the connection, the bond they’ve formed that just can’t be broken. (Hence the title.)

The Blurb:

Against all odds, the couple that swept you away in TAKEN BY STORM is back. Michael is in Thailand diving his dream. Leesie is at BYU living hers.

And they just can't leave each other alone.

Their romance rekindles, deeper than before. They grow desperate to see one another again. To hold one another again. Michael decides there is only one direction their relationship can go and asks Leesie the ultimate question. Her answer challenges everything Michael is and wants to be.

Can she change for him?

Can he change for her?

Enough?

Oh my goodness. Does that not sound just stunning? Well. It is. Beautifully written. Amazing, heart-wrenching, thought-stealing story. (And I must admit, of the three books, this one is my favorite. Won’t say why, though. Spoilers.)

But lest you think you might get away with reading just Taken by Storm and Unbroken Connection, I must warn you. UC leaves us on a cliff hanger edge that will keep you awake at night until you get out of bed, searching for Cayman Summer so you can devour it in one gulp.

So check out this blurb too:

In Morrison's debut young adult novel, TAKEN BY STORM, Michael faces incredible loss, but he finds Leesie. UNBROKEN CONNECTION is Leesie's story. By the final page, she is broken and battered--physically and spiritually. Morrison vowed to her readers not to leave her that way. CAYMAN SUMMER recounts Michael and Leesie's final journey.

Michael takes Leesie to the Cayman Islands to heal. Time, sunshine, and Michael's devotion free her of physical pain, but grief and guilt haunt her. Michael will do anything to find the old Leesie who prayed, spoke of visions, and kept the rules. For Leesie, that girl is lost forever. Rules? What's the point now? She's ready to break every one.

So here’s the thing. I loved Michael and Leesie’s story. I loved how they started, how they grew together and split apart numerous times, only to end up where they belonged—in the arms of each other. This was a journey I took twice, much like riding a roller coaster a second time, just to make sure it really was as thrilling as I thought the first time. And yes, by the way, it was. Kept me awake nights, even the second time when I knew what was coming next.

(Side note about the ending: I would have preferred that the last few chapters of Cayman Summer be less about religion, and more about them learning to live together regardless of their differences. However, I was satisfied with the overall outcome, and highly recommend the series to readers of all religious affiliations and beliefs. Regardless of religious content, the point of the story is how two young people grow together through the unbreakable bonds of true love.)

This week, Angela is giving away SO. Many. Books! If you’re at all interested in this series, get yourself to her Cayman Summer blog and enter to win.

Or. You can purchase all three titles from her website or from Amazon.

(FYI, this series starts out being written for a wide national audience, and by the third book ends up with a significant amount of Mormon religion. Don't worry, though, you can handle it, I promise.)

2011-05-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

Okay you guys, seriously, I’m thinking June is turning into the BEST month for book releases. Or, at least it is this year. Cuz, not only is Possession coming out on the 7th, but then two days later, The Forgotten Locket, third book in The Hourglass Door series by Lisa Mangum, comes out on the 9th. Do you have any idea how EPIC this is? It’s summer reading gone wild.

And check out this trailer.

If you haven’t read The Hourglass Door and The Golden Spiral yet, I’m shocked and ashamed. Your life is not complete. Not even a little. You should get on that. In fact, hurry and order them online, right now. I’ll wait. (Not sure what these books are about? I reviewed The Hourglass Door here and you can find another great review here.)

*twiddles thumbs* Doot ,do, do.

Okay, now that you’ve done that, let’s talk about the final book in the trilogy, The Forgotten Locket. Oh. My. Gosh. I know I’ve said it before, but Lisa Mangum is a writing genius. Not only is this story brilliantly crafted, expertly plotted, and absolutely tight—but people, it’s poetry. Pure and simple poetry.

I have a tendency to figure out what happens at the end of a book or series somewhere before midpoint of book one, but not so in this story. I never once guessed what was going to happen, so I believe bonus points are in order.

Wanna see the blurb?

The future is uncertain. The battle to control the past has begun.

The final book in the riveting Hourglass Door trilogy begins when Abby steps through the black door, and she doesn’t dare look back. Though it means leaving Dante–wounded, bleeding, and possibly blind–she knows it is the only way to save her family and stop Zo from manipulating the river of time and throwing the future into chaos. In the end, Abby must face a final confrontation that will take her to the very origins of the hourglass door.

Awesome, right? Oh believe me, it is. I just finished reading it. Yes, I know—you’re all totally jealous right now. But don’t worry. You, too, will have the opportunity to read The Forgotten Locket.

You can pre-order your copy here, or here, or head on into your favorite local bookstore and pick it up June 9th. You will NOT be sorry.

Possession by Elana Johnson: A MUST Read Summer Release

2011-05-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, I totally cornered Elana Johnson to ask the questions most burning in my mind since I first read her upcoming release, Possession. Now. I realize I'm a complete cheezer. No need to comment on that. But Elana kind of rocks the awesomesauce. Just in case you didn't already know that.

So check this out:

Last week, I ran a rockin contest in which I gave away a signed and doodled copy of Possession, Elana's debut book. But dudes, in all my excitement to do the giveaway, I never mentioned what I thought of the book itself. Duh.

*facepalm*

Also, I never posted the contest info here.

*second facepalm*

Soooo. No, I am not giving away a second ARC. BUT. I am going to talk a little bit about the book and what I thought. So here's the blurb:

Vi knows the Rule: Girls don't walk with boys, and they never even think about kissing them. But no one makes Vi want to break the Rules more than Zenn...and since the Thinkers have chosen him as Vi's future match, how much trouble can one kiss cause? The Thinkers may have brainwashed the rest of the population, but Vi is determined to think for herself.

But the Thinkers are unusually persuasive, and they're set on convincing Vi to become one of them...starting by brainwashing Zenn. Vi can't leave Zenn in the Thinkers' hands, but she's wary of joining the rebellion, especially since that means teaming up with Jag. Jag is egotistical, charismatic, and dangerous--everything Zenn's not. Vi can't quite trust Jag and can't quite resist him, but she also can't give up on Zenn.

This is a game of control or be controlled. And Vi has no choice but to play.

First. Fantastic, beautiful writing. I have one word for you peeps (and it is straight out of the book):

Choker

What is your definition of this word? Now, your assignment is to read the book, then come back here and tell me if that definition has changed. Holy wow. I love that part. Poetry, my friends. Pure poetry.

Okay, now. What about your definition of being good vs. being bad? Again, my explaining this would involve spoilers, so I will leave that in your thoughts as well, but your view may change after reading Possession.

My friends, this is one of those books that makes you think. And not like a Thinker, but like a person. A real-live person with choices and consequences to actions and feelings that matter, regardless of the views of society. And you will do all this through the eyes of Vi, and with the assistance of Jag.

What did I think of this book? World-changing, thought-altering, life-affecting literature. Or to put it more simply: Amazing.

That is all. Now if you haven't done it already, hurry up and pre-order your copy. Or pick it up in your favorite bookstore on June 7th. I know I will!

Frank Cole Dishes about characters in "The Guardians of the Hidden Scepter"

2011-04-11T04:00:00.000-07:00

Hi all! Today I have a special guest. Frank Cole and I met at a small writer’s conference in Springville, UT a few years back. My computer was having issues, and Frank attempted to assist me in making it stay, well, alive. Also, he and I and a couple other outlet-loving writers dragged a table to the back of the room so we could run a power strip along the wall and plug in.

As we were somewhat isolated from the rest of the attendees, the resulting conversations were quite entertaining. This was when I learned how much of funny guy Frank can be. And he has never proven my first impression wrong. Just sayin. Frank is author of the Hashbrown Winters series, and has just released a new series, the first of which is titled The Guardians of the Hidden Scepter.

NG: So dude, thanks for hanging out with me today. My son and I are big fans of Hashbrown and the gang, which makes us really anxious to get to know the characters in your new series. First thing’s first. What’s your main character’s favorite food?

Frank: Amber loves Top Ramen and Fried Chicken Sandwiches.

NG: Awesomeness. Who doesn’t love Top Ramen, right? And if Amber was a super hero, what would be her super power?

Frank: Mindreading like Professor X. Just the ability to know what people are really thinking.

NG: Sometimes I wish I could read people’s minds. But most the time, I think I’m better off not knowing. But it would definitely be interesting. I sometimes think my dogs can read my son’s mind. Hey, if your main character had an animal, what kind would they choose and what would they name it?

Frank: She would have a horse and she would name him Pharaoh.

NG: Aw. Because she’s into history and stuff right? Only problem is there were no ebooks in history, and definitely no computers. Not even TV! Speaking of which, what is Amber’s favorite TV show?

Frank: She doesn’t watch much television. She could have one if she wanted in her dorm room, but she’s never seen the need. Still, she’d probably enjoy rerun episodes of Full House.

NG: Sounds like she’d get along well with my daughters. Except they have a thing about wanting to live on an island someday. So, if you and Amber were stranded on a desert island together, how would you work together to get rescued? Or would you prefer to stay stranded?

Frank: We would definitely work together to get rescued. I think we’d work on surviving for a while to give our rescuers time to find us if they could, but when that never happened; we would build a raft, chart somewhat of a course, and take our chances with the ocean.

NG: Ooh. Brave of you. Kind of like writing a book is brave. But then, it’s the best way to deal with those dang voices in your head. Most writers have a story about a time when characters from their work in progress spoke to them so persistently that they actually interfered in something the author was trying to do. Do you have one such story and will you share it with us?

Frank: It actually came from Trendon, the sidekick. I think I aggravated him with how impartial I was writing him to sensitive situations. He told me to back off and I listened… a little.

NG: Well, I’m sure you showed him. Gave him what-for and showed him who's boss! Now, if you were real-life friends with Amber, what would you do to spend time together?

Frank: I don’t think I could keep up with her, but I’d definitely try. We’d have to travel a lot and I’d have to hide her books from time to time.

NG: Since we’re on the subject of travelling, while you traveled the road of rejection, what are a few things you and your characters did to survive the trauma?

Frank: We yelled at each other a lot. It got ugly at times, but now, looking back, I see we needed to have our fights.

NG: As do we all, most definitely. But then I bet you made up and went for ice cream or something, right? If you had the opportunity to have one meal with one character in your story, which character would it be, where would you eat, and who would pay?

Frank: I’d eat with Cabarles at his house and with his wife’s cooking. I miss the delicious cuisine of the Philippines.

NG: Ooh, how very exotic and yummy sounding.

Hey Frank, thanks for hanging out with me today! It’s been fun.

To find out more about Frank’s newest release, The Guardians of the Hidden scepter, click here. or visit Frank's blog.

Amber never dreamed her archaeology class would turn into a top secret mission that would take her across the globe, but when her teacher goes missing, Amber realizes it's up to her to protect the Hidden Scepter or risk unleashing an ancient power too terrifying to imagine. This guaranteed page-turner from the bestselling author of the Hashbrown Winters series is perfect for the adventurer in your family.

To purchase your copy of Hashbrown Winters, click here.

Dearly Departed by Tristi Pinkston

2011-02-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here’s where I brag a little bit. I’ve been a fan of Ida Mae and the gang longer than anyone. Well, except maybe the author herself. How? Because I’ve had the privilege of reading all the Secret Sisters series before publication. *sticks out tongue* neener, neener!

In all seriousness though, and without prejudice, I’ve become so endeared to these characters. For one thing, Ida Mae reminds me of my grandma (yes, you, Grandma!) with her spunk, her desire to take care of those around her, and also with her drive to see justice prevail. (Hm. That must be where I get it.) Add to that her dear and wonderful friends Tansy and Arlette, Arlette’s granddaughter Eden, Eden’s friend Kevin, and the ladies’ newfound friend George, and you’ve got a recipe for another hilarious mystery.

The ladies just can’t seem to keep themselves out of trouble! But with the help of their new friends, they manage to skirt the boundaries of the law, while somehow staying alive, even though the odds are always stacked against them.

This book is well written, has several interesting and amusing red herrings, and is such a quick and delightful read that you won’t want to put it down—even when you’ve finished it. (Don’t worry though, I happen to know the author—and the Secret Sisters aren’t finished yet!)

Here’s the blurb:

Ida Mae Babbit has done her community service and is a reformed woman—no more law-breaking for her. But when Arlette's granddaughter Eden discovers a mystery in a fancy nursing home, Ida Mae—with the perfect excuse of a broken wrist and a broken ankle—checks herself into the place. After all, it is for the greater good. Soon she's buzzing around in her motorized wheelchair, questioning the residents and swiping files from the office. She's bound and determined to get to the bottom of this case. But can she solve the mystery before she becomes the next victim?

You can find out more about the author on her blog, or her publisher’s blog.

Purchase your copy of Dearly Departed along with a copy of Secret Sisters.

Ida Mae
Babbitt rides again!
Ida Mae Babbitt may be a reformed woman, but trouble just can't stay away.
Follow the blog tour for Dearly Departed by Tristi Pinkston and learn
about Ida Mae's latest adventure.

We will be giving away THREE copies of Dearly Departed . One
GRAND PRIZE winner will win this fun
scrap booking pack.

It's easy to enter.
1. Visit the fabulous reviews and leave a comment letting us know why
you're excited to read Dearly
Departed. Remember to include your email address.
2. For an additional entry become a follower of Walnut Springs Press blog,
Tristi's blog, or any of the fabulous reviews blog. Leave a comment letting
us know who's blog you now follow.
3. If you tweet about the blog tour, or post about it on your blog or
facebook, leave the link in the comments section and you'll receive an
additional entry for each post.

Good Luck! Entries close at midnight (MST) on March 6th.

***
Ida Mae Babbitt has done her community service and is a reformed
woman - no more law-breaking for her. But when Arlette's granddaughter
Eden discovers a mystery in a fancy nursing home, Ida Mae - with the
perfect excuse of a broken wrist and a broken ankle - checks herself into
the place. After all, it is for the greater good. Soon she's buzzing
around in her motorized wheelchair, questioning the residents and swiping
files from the office. She's bound and determined to get to the bottom of
this case. But can she solve the mystery before she becomes the next
victim?

****
February 16th
Starcrossed book
reviews (Nichole Giles begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting)

Febraury 17
Inksplasher (Karlene Browning)

February 18
Heather Justensen

February 21
Elizabeth Muller

February 22
LDS Women's Book Review (Shanda
Cottam)

February 23
Rachelle Writes
(Rachelle Christensen)
Sometimes
Hard But Oh So Worth It (Kimberly Coates)

February 24
Fire and Ice (Heather
Gardner)

February 28
Cheryl's Book Nook
(Cheryl Koch)

March 1
JDP News (Joyce DiPastena)

March 2
Teri Rodeman

March 3
Why Not? Because I Said
So (Sheila Stayley)

The Peasant Queen

2011-02-06T16:49:00.000-08:00

By Cheri Chesley

The short blurb:

After running away from home, Krystal is transported to a faraway kingdom where an evil tyrant is bent on taking the crown - and Krystal's hand in marriage. But when she falls in love with the rightful heir to the throne, she must make an impossible choice: sacrifice her one chance at happiness or face the destruction of an entire kingdom.

I would like to say I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly I was able to finish this book, but actually, I already knew. After hearing about this story for quite some time, I had pretty high expectations for it, and author Cheri Chesley didn’t disappoint.

Things I loved: I loved the details about Krystal’s world, her life as a peasant, and how it felt for her to be treated as royalty later in the story. I loved Damen the dog and Jareth the prince, and how much they both adore Krystal. Also, believe it or not, I had several moments of sweetness for the evil King Gregory. His love for Krystal was really more of an obsession, but as his feelings for her developed, he became more complex and interesting, which I really appreciated as a reader.

There’s nothing quite like a story in which you know you want the good guys to win, but you also don’t want the bad guy to necessarily lose. At least, not everything.

I loved how Krystal never waits for someone else to come to her rescue, instead defending herself and risking everything to rescue others. She’s a strong, independent character, which is very important to me.

The only thing I didn’t love was that the ending didn’t quite feel all wrapped up, and that I was left with some questions. However, I understand that there will be at least one sequel to this story. So instead of feeling unfinished at the end, it’s more a taste of what’s to come in future volumes.I can live with that (that is, as long as Cheri doesn't keep us waiting for too long).

If you’re looking for a great fantasy story that’s a quick read, I recommend The Peasant Queen.

Also, don't miss out on this awesome contest. All you have to do is leave a comment! For more information and to see the offered prizes click here.

To learn more about the author, Cheri Chesley, check out her blog.
Purchase your copy of The Peasant Queen.
Rate this book on Goodreads or Amazon.

You're Invited to a Launch Party!

2011-01-12T10:40:00.001-08:00

You are invited to the release

of Tristi Pinkston’s new novel

Dearly Departed

on Friday, January 14th,

at Pioneer Book

858 S. State, Orem

6 – 8 pm

Refreshments, prizes, and fun!

Bring a package of socks to be donated

to the homeless, and you'll be entered in an

additional drawing.

Hope to see you there!

"My Gift to You" by Lori Nawyn

2010-11-10T05:06:00.000-08:00

First off, so sorry I've skipped a week posting on this site here and there. I really am still reading like crazy, as always. Just haven't written much about what I'm reading. But don't worry, I'll catch up here soon. Anyway, moving on.

Lots of fantastic new books are being released in the next few months, and as we all know, books make perfect holiday gifts. I have not read this book, but am hearing about it all over the place. Sounds interesting. What do you think?

From the back of the book:

Trish Ingram works hard to maintain the perfect suburban household—or, at least, the appearance of one. By managing her outer world with lavish attention and rigid control, she’s able to ignore and conceal the darkness of her inner world, which is plagued by traumatic childhood memories of loss. Her terminally ill sister-in-law, Jamie, sees through the façade and reaches out in love to Trish, inspiring her to seek a more meaningful life and a more authentic self. But the childhood scars run deep, and despite Trish’s best efforts, she’s unable to be the wife and mother her family needs.

Devastated by the departure of her husband and daughter, Trish faces the challenge and opportunity of a lifetime. She desires to move forward in faith, but this desire alone cannot mend her family's shattered trust. The hollow realm of denial and fear has been her safe haven. To confront pain and transcend the shadows of her past will require a level of courage she’s not sure she possesses. This gripping story of familial love and conflict tenderly reminds us that forgiveness—of self, and others—is both a difficult choice and a precious gift.

Why Lori says she wrote the book:

My Gift to You is about forgiving ourselves, despite what we perceive as our shortcomings.
When we judge ourselves as less than acceptable for any reason, small mistakes can cripple us with discouragement. It becomes easy to lose sight of our potential, as well as precious opportunities for growth.

I was an only child with ample time to ponder the intricacies of human behavior. At a young age, I became fascinated by the fact that while several people in my life were happy, upbeat, and in possession of inner peace in most if not all circumstances, some seemed inherently unhappy no matter what happened—good or bad. Money and possessions didn’t seem to have a bearing, and I wondered what did.

Though I’d been baptized when I was eight, my family didn’t attend church. If I wanted to go, I had to attend on my own. It took me a while to grasp gospel concepts, and I found that most of the time I was among those who were unhappy. About twenty years ago I decided to stop asking Why me? and instead start asking What if?

One by one, I replaced negative emotions with those of a positive nature. Instead of wondering why I couldn't make everyone around me happy—and becoming despondent because nothing I did seemed to change them or their opinions—I started asking things like, "What if happiness really is a choice? What if it can be my choice, no matter what anyone else thinks or feels?"

Instead of commiserating over why my extended family couldn't accept me for who I was and what I believed in, I asked myself, "What if I could choose my own thoughts and emotions based on what I know in my heart is right and true?" In short, "What if I accept myself for who I am?"

And, "What if I forgive—knowing that forgiveness doesn't mean acceptance?"
When I began writing My Gift to You I decided I wanted my main character, Trish, to discover something important about herself: I wanted her to discover her own inner strengths and worth—much like I had when I began to unravel my own life.

About Lori:

Lori Nawyn's award-winning writing has appeared in regional and national publications including Outside Bozeman, Segullah, Deseret News, CraziBeautiful Women, and Latter-Day Woman. She is also a columnist for her local paper and a former member of Utah Press Women. One of her short stories was published in the anthology Stolen Christmas. Her first novel, My Gift to You, was released in October 2010.

Lori is currently writing her next novel, Day, about a mother’s relationship with her son. She works as a freelance artist and is the illustrator of the award-winning children's picture book What Are You Thinking? which was released in July 2010 by ThoughtsAlive Publishing. She and her fireman husband live in northern Utah where they enjoy spending time with their four children and two granddaughters, plus an assortment of dogs, rabbits, and chickens.

My Thoughts About: "Perilous" by Tamara Heart Heiner (and also, a rockin contest!)

2010-10-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

*Read on to find out contest details*

When I first agreed to read this book, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve read a wide variety in young adult titles recently, and almost every one of those titles has fit neatly into one category or another of young adult stories. Especially those books written as series works. But this one is different for me.

I’m not sure I’ve ever read a true young adult suspense novel. But this one was most definitely suspense—or should I say, intense? At no point in the story was I able to predict what was coming next, which is huge for me. Huge. The characters are well developed, the setting easy to picture (even as it is constantly changing) yet invisible, and the story line believable and easy to follow.

I found the plight of Jaci and her friends gripping from the first page to the last, never knowing who to trust or what to hope the kids would do. And while the ending was satisfying, the leftover strings of the story tell me there’s a lot more left of the adventure for these kids. I can’t wait to read the next installment in the series.

The Amazon blurb:

Jaci Rivera has plans for her sophomore year: go to regionals with the track team, make the honor roll, and eat too much pizza with her best friends, Callie and Sara. Her biggest concern is Amanda, the pushy girl who moved in a few months ago. What she doesn't plan for is catching a robber red-handed, or being kidnapped. The desperate thief drags her and her friends 2,000 miles across the Canadian border. They escape from his lair, only to find that he has spies and agents watching their path home, waiting to intercept them and take them back. Then Jaci finds something out about her family. Something which irrevocably connects her to their kidnapper, and makes her question their chances of escape.

And now for the information you’ve all been waiting for: THE CONTEST!

Book giveaway, Oct 15-Nov 15: Every person who comments on any post during the blog tour will be entered into a random drawing for an autographed copy of the book.

Kindle giveaway, Oct 15-Dec 15: This contest is point-based—meaning whoever has the most points wins the Kindle. There will only be one Kindle given away.

Here’s how to accrue your points:

1 point: blog comment (can comment on all the blogs, multiple times, on
the tour)

1 point: follow Tamara’s blog (http://tamarahartheiner.blogspot.com)
1 point: Tweet or retweet the contest (include a link)
2 points: blog about the blog tour (also include a link)
5 points: purchase the book (ebook or paperback, must email Tamara the confirmation email or copy of receipt)

Add up all your points and email the total, along with your links, to tamara at tamarahartheiner dot
com at the end of contest dates (specified above).

Good news! You can earn an infinite number of points!

Purchase your ebook copy of Perilous.
Pre-order or purchase your paperback copy at Barnes and Noble or Amazon.
To earn your extra points, check out Tamara’s blog for a list of participating tour sites.

Good luck!

Books I've Been Reading: Part III

2010-10-04T05:45:00.000-07:00

5. Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce: Another book I’d heard big things about, which means I started reading with high expectations. This is a creative and fresh take on a Little Red Riding Hood-type story, only Red is actually a pair of sisters, the Woodsman is a young boy who is best friends with the girls, and the wolf is a whole society of evil werewolves known as Fenris. Also, there’s romance and kissing, which IMO makes every book better.

Scarlett and Rosie share a strong bond of sisterhood to which I can relate, and their complicated relationships with Silas, creates both believability and tension. So yes, I recommend this one as well.

6. Story of a Girl by Sara Zarr: (Another one I don’t recommend for younger teens, and consider rated PG 17 for sexual content.)While it didn’t hook me in the same way as Sweethearts (by the same author) this book did hook me right from the beginning, and had me feeling sympathetic for both Deanna and other members of her family. Her father, her brother, her niece, her almost sister-in-law, her mother. Deanna’s journey is very subtle in this story, but results in her learning to accept her mistakes and move on, and also to forgive those people who have hurt her most in her life.

Books I've been Reading: Part II

2010-09-27T05:41:00.000-07:00

3. The Miles Between by Mary E. Pearson: I loved The Adoration of Jenna Fox, so I had high expectations here. This book is very, very different, specifically in that it is NOT science fiction, but was still well written and thought out. While it took me 50 pages or so to get into the story, when I was finished, I was completely enchanted. And of the three books I’ve mentioned thus far in my series, this one in particular tugged my heartstrings and took me on an unexpected journey.

4. The Duff by Koedy Keplinger: (First a word of caution: IMO this book is not appropriate for younger teens, but is definitely aimed at the older set, or even a crossover audience, as it has what some might consider undesirable language, as well as sexual content.) I’ve heard mixed reviews of this book, so, take this as my opinion and then go read it and form your own. I actually really liked this story. Enough that I read it in one day, then turned around and reread it over again the next day.

While I thought some of the circumstances were stretched a little bit thin for believability, the characters were real, the message clear, and the story arc completely satisfying. Kind of a modern day Sixteen Candles-type deal. I loved the main character, Bianca, because she felt very real to me. Also, though, I LOVED Wesley, the antagonist/ love interest for being such an anomaly. Every confusion Bianca felt over him, I felt right along with her. This is one of those character driven stories I love for the authenticity. I recommend it.

Books I've Been Reading: Part I

2010-09-20T05:33:00.000-07:00

I’ve been very bad lately. No posts about all the books I’ve been reading. No reviews. No interviews. Just me—not posting here.

And since I’m leaving town for the week, I’m not going to take the time to do a long in-depth review on all the awesome books I’ve read lately. Instead, I’ve decided to share a few thoughts about a handful of the books I’ve read in the last couple weeks.

I should start with The Hunger Games series, because it seems like everyone has something to say about those books. But I think that discussion will require a longer post, all by itself, and more time than I have today . So. This post will be the first of three, in which I post short highlights and thoughts of the books I’ve been reading lately.

1. The Healing Spell by Kimberly Griffiths Little: This book had a really strong voice, and spoke to my inner twelve-year-old. It had beautiful descriptions and culture of the deep south and a heart-wrenching plot. This is not a fast paced tension book, nor a fantasy of any kind. I found it an enjoyable, easy read.

2. Once Was Lost by Sara Zarr: This one was a little different from Sara’s other books in that it had a strong religious focus (Catholic) that followed the main character, Sammy, through belief, doubt, and heartache. However, similar to Sara’s other books, Sammy was dealing with some very difficult and real issues with her mother's alcoholism, her father's neglect, and the confusion created in a community when a beloved young woman goes missing.

This was also an enjoyable read, with an emotional charge that kept me reading all the way through.

My Interview with Author Linda Weaver Clark

2010-08-30T14:58:00.000-07:00

Chatting with me today is Linda Weaver Clarke, who is an author of historical romance and good clean fiction. Linda is celebrating the release of her newest book, Mayan Intrigue.

The jungles of the Yucatan, Mayan ruins, looters, a mysterious artifact, and a nosey reporter are focus of Mayan Intrigue.

Of course, we have to know all the most important basics, right?

NG: What is your main character’s favorite food?

Linda Weaver Clarke: Anything edible! Both John and Julia Evans enjoy trying new kinds of food and their favorite music is jazz and the blues.

NG: If your main character was a super hero, what would be his/her super power?

Linda Weaver Clarke: John’s super power would be his strength. He has a powerful punch. He is unusually tall with broad shoulders and his bulging biceps come from lifting and working with large pieces of steel. So of course, that is a plus! Julia’s super power would be her womanly instincts. She has perception and tries to follow her instincts. In fact, her dreams usually have something to do with the future.

NG: If your main character had an animal, what kind would they choose and what would they name it?

Linda Weaver Clarke: John would have a faithful dog, an Irish Setter with beautiful rich rust-red fur named Clancy. Julia would have a white fluffy kitten with plenty of long hair named Snowball.

NG: What is your main character’s favorite TV show?

Linda Weaver Clarke: John’s favorite is MacGyver. He’s a MacGyver wanna-be. He even calls duct tape MacGyver tape. For years, his oldest daughter, April, never knew the real name of the tape until one day at school when she asked a boy to pass the MacGyver tape. He was totally confused until she pointed to it. It was embarrassing when she found out that it had another name. Poor April!

Julia’s favorite TV show is Hart to Hart. They watch reruns as often as possible. She sees herself and her husband as the married couple, investigating and solving crimes. The couple is madly in love, you laugh at the humor, and sigh at the romance. So, you see why Julia loves that show.

NG: If you and your main character were stranded on a desert island together, how would you work together to get rescued? Or would you prefer to stay stranded?

Linda Weaver Clarke: John would use his ingenuity and strength to build a raft. Julia would use her instincts to find food such as bananas, mangos, and fresh water. Of course, I’m not very handy with building things, so I would help the heroine of my book.

NG: Most writers have a story about a time when the main character of their work in progress spoke to them so persistently that they actually interfered in something the author was trying to do. Do you have one such story and will you share it with us? (In as few words as possible.)

Linda Weaver Clarke: My characters are so considerate of me. They never bother me, don’t keep me up at night, and don’t even disturb me until I’m ready. When I sit down at my computer, they begin talking but not until then. I love my characters!

NG: If you were friends with your main character, what would you do to spend time together?

Linda Weaver Clarke: John would probably take me target shooting. That’s his favorite pastime. In the evening John and Julia would take me to an outdoor restaurant with lights hanging on a string to bring light to the atmosphere. They’re a very romantic couple.

NG: While you traveled the road of rejection, what are a few things you and your characters did to survive the trauma?

Linda Weaver Clarke: While I was waiting, I wrote three more books as a family saga with the same characters. When you fall in love with your characters, you want to make it a series or sequel, and that was what I did while waiting. My road of rejection didn’t last long. It only took under a year before a publisher accepted my work. I was elated because I had heard of many authors who had to wait for several years to be published such as Louis L’Amour, Dr. Seuss, and J.K. Rowling.

NG: If you had the opportunity to have one meal with one character in your story, which character would it be, where would you eat, and who would pay?

Linda Weaver Clarke: It would be April. She’s a delightful character: twenty years of age with shoulder length honey-blond hair and sky blue eyes. Known as a prolific reader, she had gone through different moods throughout the years, from Jane Austen to Jane Eyre, which she couldn’t put down. This alone makes it fun to be around her because we could discuss books and reading. April teaches the art of pottery and is a potter and makes exquisite bowls, dishes, and tall vases. She is also a strong character with definite opinions and definite standards. I think it would be a blast to sit at a Soup and Salad restaurant with her and talk. Of course, she would pay. Hey, that’s her personality. She wouldn’t allow me to pay because I created her.

NG: Thanks for visiting with me today!This has been fun.

Linda Weaver Clarke: Your welcome, Nichole. If anyone wants to read a sample chapter of any of my books, you may go to www.lindaweaverclarke.com.

Learn more about works by Linda Weaver Clarke.
Visit Linda's blog.
Purchase your copy of Mayan Intrigue.

Trapped by Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen

2010-08-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

A Forged Letter, A Golden Vial, An Ancient
Curse...

Filled with family secrets, intrigue, and romance
the blog tour
(August 9-August 24) for Trapped by Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen will
have it all.

Her expression remained somber, but excitement crept into her voice. You are the Firstborn She...You must go to them. You want me to act as bait? Not bait, Emi. A spy. Our Trojan
horse. When Emi Warrin wakes one night to find a thief in her mother's house, she has no idea the intruder has planted a trap - a mysterious letter that will change her life forever.

Lured to the Austrian Alps with Daniel, the man she loves, Emi is thrown into a perilous, mafia-like world of feuding families and a devastating curse that spans generations. As the Firstborn She - the only firstborn female in hundreds of years - only Emi can free her family from the curse that will soon afflict her as well. But for Emi to break the curse, she
must delve into evil designs. As Emi struggles to understand her destiny as the Firstborn She, she learns that everything isn't as it seems and that all choices have consequences.
Can Emi break the curse before it's too late?

We will be giving away THREE autographed copies!

All you have to do is leave a comment (along with your email address if it isn't on your blog profile) and answer the following question.

Which Austrian city would you most like to visit?

The more blogs you comment on the more entries
you'll receive.
All comments must be left by midnight MST
on August 27 to be eligible.

August 9
Heather Gardner

August 10
Jewel Adams

August 11
Mary Greathouse
Teri Rodeman

August 12
Lynn Fowlstone
Christine Bryant

August 13
Valerie Ipson
Sheila Stayley

August 16
Deanne Blackhurst

August 17
Connie Hall
C.S. Bezas

August 18
Kimberly Job
Tristi Pinkston

August 19
Karen Hoover
Nichole Giles

August 20
Alison Palmer
Jessica Williams

August 23
Joyce DiPastena
Laurie Lewis

As I was in the process of reading her book, I had the opportunity to interview author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen with all the questions most on my mind.

NG: Hi Ronda, thanks for visiting with me today.

RGH: Hi Nichole! So glad to be here on your fabulous blog. It’s almost a wonderful as eating a piece of my German Chocolate cake—which is the favorite food of my main character Emi.

NG: Well. Um. That takes care of my first question. So, let’s move onto the second. If your main character was a super hero, what would be her super power?

RGH: That’s easy. Emi is still discovering her power in TRAPPED, so she doesn’t yet even know this, but she has the power to harness nature.

NG: Huh. Interesting. I like that idea. So, if Emi had an animal, what kind would she choose and what would she name it?

RGH: While Emi doesn’t have her own pet yet, now that she’s living on her own, she is still emotionally connected to her mother’s cat, Sylvie.

NG: If you and your main character were stranded on a desert island together, how would you work together to get rescued? Or would you prefer to stay stranded?

RGH: Since both Emi and I are in love with amazing men and also care deeply for many other people, neither of us would want to stay stranded for long. To initiate our rescue, we’d try all the typical methods, like trying to light a smoky fire or writing a message on the beach; but if those didn’t work, we’d try to harness Emi’s power over nature. Since it’s still untried, it’s hard to know what results our efforts would yield, but . . . perhaps she could influence the wind to push a sailboat our direction?

NG: Good answer. Interesting. Most writers have a story about a time when the main character of their work in progress spoke to them so persistently that they actually interfered in something the author was trying to do. Do you have one such story and will you share it with us?

RGH: Just as I had done in my first novel, MISSING, I began to write TRAPPED in 3rd person POV, but as I wrote the first few chapters, I kept hearing Emi’s voice so strongly in my head that I frequently found myself switching to 1st person. I eventually listened to Emi and not only rewrote those first chapters, but also continued the rest of the story in 1st person.

NG: I love when that happens. It’s a frequent thing for me. If you were friends with your main character, what would you do to spend time together?

RGH: Travel to exotic locations and immerse ourselves in the culture. She’s a travel magazine writer and I incorporate my travels in my novels, so we’d make a great team.

NG: Oh, yes. That sounds like a great combo. Speaking of traveling, while you traveled the road of rejection, what are a few things you and your characters did to survive the trauma?

RGH: The same thing we’ve always done: rework and resubmit somewhere else until we find the right audience for our work.

NG: If you had the opportunity to have one meal with one character in your story, which character would it be, where would you eat, and who would pay?

RGH: I would love to invite Emi’s mother over to my house to dinner so my entire family could meet her. She is so fascinating to me. I mean, how could she ever bear the sacrifices she had to make in order to—oops! Spoiler alert!

*Ronda claps a hand to her mouth and refuses to say another word on the record*

NG: Ahem. Well. Thanks, Ronda, for visiting with me today. And for not spoiling the story for those who haven’t yet read the book.

Learn more about books by Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen.

Purchase your copy of Trapped.

Queen in Exile by Donna Hatch

2010-08-16T01:00:00.000-07:00

When I first heard about this book, I knew I wanted to read it. First, because it’s fantasy, but written to feel historical. And second, because it’s a romance. Two of my favorite kinds of stories combined. However, I’m generally pretty skeptical of complex books by newer authors, because I’m pretty picky about quality of writing and authenticity of the characters. Luckily, I was not disappointed by Queen in Exile. I very much enjoyed it.

The conflict and attraction between Jeniah and Kai is right up front and carries through the whole book. I had to keep reading to see what would happen next. I also enjoyed watching how both characters grew individually as well as together, Janiah kind of growing up to become a ruler, and Kai learning to let go of the past and look toward the future. Another thing I appreciated were the numerous bittersweet moments the author so cleverly built in—ones that made my heart sigh while bringing a sad tear to my eyes.

And here’s the kicker. Whether you’re a fan of historical romance, fantastical romance, epic fantasy, or just general romance—you’ll enjoy this book. It kind of has an all around feel to it that will appeal to a wide audience. Plus, the cover is gorgeous.

Here’s the blurb:

Rumors of war hang over Princess Jeniah's peaceful country of Arden, a land that shuns both magic and warfare. Following a lifelong dream, Jeniah forms a telpathic bond with a revered creature called a chayim, who is prophesied to save her kingdom. But when a Darborian knight comes upon Jeniah with her chayim, he sees only a vicious monster about to devour a maiden, and he slays the beast.

Devastated by the loss of her chayim, and fearing that her own magic is evil, Jeniah doubts her destiny. When an enemy invades Arden City, they slaughter the people, storm the castle, and execute the entire royal family except the princess. Rescued by the knight who slew her chayim, Jeniah is now heir to the throne of Arden and the only hope for freeing her people from tyranny.

On the run and hunted by enemy soldiers, Jeniah must place her life and the fate of her kingdom in the hands of this trained killer. Torn between embracing her destiny as queen of Arden, and her love for a mere knight, she must ultimately rely on her magic to save herself and her people from death and tyranny.

Learn more about other books by author Donna Hatch.

Purchase your copy of Queen in Exile.

"Alma the Younger" by H.B. Moore

2010-08-04T04:59:00.000-07:00

I’ve been waiting to read this book ever since I finished the previous installation, Alma. H.B. Moore puts a unique spin on each scriptural story she’s ever tackled, and this story of the bad-boy, son-of-a-prophet is a favorite of many.

Once again, I must applaud Moore for her imagination. She has breathed life into the stories of the Book of Mormon, giving readers a vivid view into what Mesoamerican life might have been like during that period. What’s more, her vivid accounts of the trials faced by the people of that time help us (or at least me) come away with a better understanding of those people as human beings with faults, frustrations, joys and sorrows—more than just the bare-bones stories from scriptural accounts.

As always, I loved the characters, and my heart hurt for them as the plot progressed and Alma the Younger continued to make choices that affected so many. Of all Moore’s books, I think this one tackled the most difficult subjects, and she handled them well. This volume is the best one yet.

I will say, however, that I felt like the story ended a tad too abruptly, forgiveness given so easily. I would have loved to have just a little more of a conclusion on the fictional side, showing the strain and perhaps the mending of the fictional relationships portrayed here. But that’s just me.And as stated above, this volume is a new favorite of mine.

Here’s the blurb:

As night descends, a scarlet-robed man emerges from the temple and a hush falls over the waiting crowd. The hooded figure dares to preach rebellion from the very place where King Benjamin uttered his final blessings upon the people of the Church. Defiling the tower with his very presence, the man who embodies evil raises a hand to silence the drums, then calls to his followers through the eerie quiet. And that's when Alma realizes the terrible truth: this man is his son.

Alma the Younger, son of the aging high priest, once was taught by the wisdom of prophets. Now, ensnared by the wiles of strong drink and harlots, he’s a bitter dissenter determined to overthrow the church and lead the people into new “freedoms.” But en route to one of his malicious missions with his royal henchmen, Alma is halted by an unexpected opponent: an angel of the Lord, a messenger of the very God he has sought to defame. What unfolds is a story of miraculous redemption, a story building on the poignant Book of Mormon account to show how even the vilest of sinners can be transformed by the Savior's amazing grace.

You be the judge.

Read my review of the previous volume in this series, Alma.

Learn more about the books of H.B. Moore .

Read sample pages of Alma the Younger.

Purchase your copy of Alma the Younger.

"Sing Me to Sleep" by Angela Morrison

2010-07-28T05:23:00.000-07:00

I'm Going to start out with the blurb:

Beth has always been “The Beast”—that’s what everyone at school calls her because of her awkward height, facial scars, and thick glasses. Who could love a beast? Beth’s only friend is geeky, golden-haired Scott. That is, until she’s selected to be her choir’s soprano soloist, and receives the makeover of a lifetime. Suddenly, everyone wants a piece of Beth.

Things only get better when her choir travels to Switzerland and Beth meets the mysterious Derek. They have an incredible whirlwind affair that makes Beth realize, for the first time, she too can find love. She’s no longer The Beast. In Derek’s eyes, she’s a beauty. But then Scott makes a heartbreaking confession to Beth that leaves her completely torn. Should she stand by sweet steady Scott or follow the dangerous, passionate feelings she has for Derek?

And there’s an even bigger problem: Derek’s got a secret…one that could shatter everything.

First, the cover. Isn't it gorgeous? I love the hands and the snow, and how it looks like they're trying so hard to hold onto each other. Okay. Enough about that.

I liked Beth right from the first page of this book. Even though she doesn’t realize it, she’s a strong person with beautiful qualities, and I enjoyed watching her grow throughout the story. I enjoyed seeing her gain confidence through music, make friends with other singers in her choir, and allow herself to let go of the person she’s always believed herself to be, in order to become the person she really always was. I especially liked how Morrison integrated music into the story, as it made the whole story feel poetic and real.

Scott, Beth’s best friend since pre-school, is an interesting character. I liked how clear it was from the very beginning that he loved Beth for who she is, and was sad to see her change. And I like that he was willing to stick by her through the hardest stuff. I didn’t like how he still followed her around, almost refusing to live his own life, after he realized she was in a relationship with Derek. For me, that part bordered on creepy-stalkerish. And also, he was pretty bossy with her.Not an attractive quality. But in the end, he turns out to be there when she needs him, which overrides everything else.

That brings me to Derek. Right off the bat, I liked Derek. He seems so genuinely interested in Beth—the real Beth, not the made-up-made-over Beth—that you just can’t help but want her to be with him. Unfortunately, it wasn’t hard for me to guess—right from the time Beth and Derek met—how the story would end. Still, I kept reading, because it stirred lots of emotions inside me, and I love stories like that, even if I already know what’s coming. Remember how I said Scott was bossy? Derek got worse in places, and I wondered if anyone but Beth—who never had a boyfriend before Derek—would’ve stuck around as long. While Derek was the mysterious one, I also felt like the secret was something Beth should’ve either guessed, or figured out long before she did. There was a lack of honesty in their relationship that bothered me. Still, I really felt the connection between the two, and wanted to see them stay together and live happily ever after. And I was very sad when the story ended.

One more thing. I love stories in which kissing is a bigger part of the whole. This story has lots and lots of kissing. Lots. Not a bad thing in my opinion, but if you have a hard time with love scenes that walk a really fine line, beware. I didn’t feel like lines were crossed, and have read much, much worse in YA books, but my lines might be different from those of others, so, you know. Keep that in mind.

And since I'm on the subject of warnings, also keep in mind that this book WILL make you cry. It just will. So keep tissues handy. But you probably won't mind, because it's fantastic. That's all.

I really enjoyed this book, and will now be adding it to the exclusive shelf in my bedroom that consists of “books I want to read again.” Well, you know, as soon as I finish the enormous stack of other books I want to read.

Read the first chapter of Sing Me to Sleep or visit Angela Morrison’s website. Oh, and one more very cool item. Since Beth and Derek's story revolves around music, the song written in the book has been recorded by the REAL Amabile choir, and is available for purchase on iTunes. It's beautiful and you can get a taste by visiting Angela Morrison's website. BONUS!

Purchase your copy of Sing Me to Sleep.

Chocolate Roses by Joan Sowards (and a Contest!)

2010-07-26T04:52:00.000-07:00

If you are considering reading Chocolate Roses, I feel I must warn you. The cover will give you an insane urge to open a box of chocolates every time you pick up the book. Look at it. Isn’t it just delicious? Yeah. But it’s a fun story, so rather than advising you to pass this one up and save yourself from gaining five pounds, I’ll instead tell you to read fast.

In all honesty, though, reading fast isn’t hard to do. The voice of the main character is fresh and fun and full of personality, and I found myself reading faster than I originally planned, just because I wanted to see what would happen next.

Also, there’s a Great Dane involved, and having been acquainted with a pup of this lovable breed in my youth, I have a soft spot for the K9 character otherwise known as Flo. Add that to my soft spot for chocolate, and you get an enjoyable story. I also liked the chapter headings out of the original Jane Eyre. This was a fun, easy-to-read parody.

The blurb:

She’s in love…

He’s out of reach…

Is there any hope?

Janie Rose Whitaker's world revolved around her chocolate shop until Roger Wentworth and his young daughter moved into the apartment across from Janie's. Anyone would think Roger fit the mold of the "perfect" guy, but soon Janie discovers secrets that could keep them apart forever. Though she resists getting involved in Roger's complicated life, they are drawn further into a bittersweet relationship.

You will laugh, cry, and crave chocolate as you read this LDS paraody of the classic novel Jane Eyre.

Joan and her publisher are hosting a giveaway during the blog tour this week.They're giving away two copies (yes, two) of Chocolate Roses, as well as an adorable apron, handmade by Joan. Cute, right?

All you have to do is leave a comment

(along with your email address if it isn't on your blog profile)

and answer the following question.

What's your favorite type of
chocolate: white, dark, or milk?

The more blogs you comment on the
more entries you'll receive.
All comments must be left by

midnight MST on August 8 to be eligible.

I had the privilege of interviewing the author, Joan Sowards, a few weeks ago. If you’re interested in learning more about her, click here to read our interview.

Check out Joan’s blog or buy your copy of Chocolate Roses from Deseret Book or Amazon.

For more chances to win, visit the other participating blogs:
July 26

Joyce DiPastena--JDP News

July 27
Deanne Blackhurst--Annie Speaks Her Mind

Tristi Pinkston--*Tristi Pinkston

July 28
Taffy Lovell--Taffy's Candy

Alison Palmer--Tangled Words and Dreams

July 29
Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen--TheWrite Blocks

C.S. Bezas--For the Love of the Written Word

July 30
Sheila Stayley--Why Not? Because I Said So!

LDSWomen's Book Review

August 2
Kerry Blair--Now & Here

Marsha Ward--Writer in the Pines

August 3
Kaylee Baldwin--Kaylee Baldwin

Amy Orton--Amesbury Reads

August 4
Anna del C.--Anna del C. Dye's Blog

Laurie Lewis--A View from the Other Side

August 5
Valerie Ipson--Of Writerly Things

Anna Arnett--Insights and Ramblings from Anna Arnett

August 6

Danyelle Ferguson--Queen of the Clan

**This book is written for a predominantly LDS audience.

Leaning into the Curves

2010-07-23T05:29:00.000-07:00

by Nancy Anderson and Carroll Hofeling Morris

When I was initially asked to review this book, Leaning into the Curves, I had a few misgivings, the first and foremost one in my mind being that the story revolves around an older couple and the twists and turns their lives take after retirement. Not that I don’t think there is life after retirement, but I’m nowhere near that age (ahem) and I worried that I’d have a hard time relating to the characters.

Luckily, my worry was unfounded, because the truth is people are people whatever their age, and with that truth, we really can relate in many ways. I enjoyed learning about Molly and Hank, and watching them grow into the next phase of their lives. Some of the issues they faced felt a little like things that (in my opinion) should have been dealt with earlier in life—like in their twenties and thirties. But I also recognize that I live in a different generation, and my parents and grandparents were raised with different forms of communication. Or non-communication. *shrugs* You know what I mean?

Anyway, I loved learning more about motorcycles and the way groups of bikers ride in formation for safety. And I loved seeing Molly put so much effort into conquering her fears in order to be with Hank and make him happy. I found this an enjoyable read about families, relationships, and all the many changes life can throw in one couple's path.

The blurb:

Molly is happy with her life the way it is, but everything changes when her husband, Hank, retires. When Hank brings home a Gold Wing motorcycle and joins the Temple Riders Association, a “Mormon motorcycle gang” that combines road trips with temple work, things go from bad to worse. Faced with the prospect of being left behind as Hank hits the road with his new group of friends, Molly starts making some changes of her own.

Leaning into the Curves offers a delightful view of a little-known group of faithful Latter-day Saints. Full of appealing characters and unexpected turns, it gives a new twist to what life can be like after “a certain age”!

Learn more about the authors and their books at their blog or website or purchase your copy of Leaning into the Curves.

**This book is written with a predominantly LDS audience in mind.

The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson

2010-07-21T05:52:00.000-07:00

First I’d like to point out that I heard about this book through word of mouth. I have lots of writer friends who have fixed themselves in the young adult genre, which means we also read a lot of young adult stuff. So after three or four different people told me I should read it, I finally managed to pick up my copy of The Adoration of Jenna Fox at a conference bookstore. And since it was my lucky day, I met Mary Pearson and had her sign it.

The story is very different from anything else I’ve read lately, which was refreshing. The subject matter touched on ethics, miracles and medicine, and choices. It wasn’t at all what I expected, but I definitely enjoyed it.

As soon as I finished, I immediately took the book downstairs to my teenage son and told him, “Read this, you’ll love it.” He did, and he did. So, Mary Pearson obviously knows her audience. Or, more, she knows my teenage test audience.

I enjoyed this story. Unlike some of my friends, I didn’t love it, and I won’t claim it’s the best book written in a long time, because I’ve read a lot of fantastic books lately. But it was unique and fresh, and I really did enjoy it. And also, the writing is absolutely brilliant.

The blurb:

Who is Jenna Fox?

Seventeen-year-old Jenna has been told that is her name. She has just awoken from a year-long coma, and she’s still recovering from the terrible accident that caused it. Her parents show her home movies of her life, her memories, but she has no recollection. Is she really the same girl she sees on the screen?

Little by little, Jenna begins to remember. But along with the memories come questions—questions no one wants to answer for her. What really happened after the accident?
In this fascinating novel, acclaimed author Mary E. Pearson presents an unforgettable look at one human life and a glimpse into a possible future that may be closer than we think.

The trailer:

To learn more about Mary E. Pearson and her other books, check out her website.

Purchase your copy of The Adoration of Jenna Fox.

"Mr Monster" by Dan Wells

2010-07-16T05:31:00.000-07:00

Okay. I’m not going to say I went into this one blind. I was fully aware, when I purchased this book, and even more so when I read it, that this particular story might be somewhat disturbing. After all, I’d already read I AM NOT A SERIAL KILLER, the prequel to this volume.

So, without going into gory details or spoilers, I’m going to say that the voice of John Cleaver is stronger than ever in Mr Monster, and the writing was very well done. I had my guesses about who the killer was this time, and while I wasn’t as surprised as I expected, the end of the book was tense and scary, and I had to put it down and not read it late at night. Because, well, it’s scary. (Um, hello. That’s sort of the point of horror, right? Yes. Okay.)

But even though it was scary, I felt compelled to keep reading anyway, and to find out how everything would work out in the end. And now, I know there must be a third book, and I can’t wait to read it. (Ahem. Dan. That means hurry up and write it.)

Product description from Amazon:

From the author of I AM NOT A SERIAL KILLER...

John Wayne Cleaver has always known he has a dark side but he’s fought hard to oppress it and live a normal life – separating John from Mr Monster to survive. But after confronting and destroying the vicious killer that was terrorizing his town, his inner monster is getting stronger and harder to contain.

And now more bodies are being discovered...

With the police failing to catch Clayton County’s second serial killer John is going to have to use his secret knowledge of the first demon-killer to trap the second...but will he be able to avoid suspicion falling on him, and, in the face of extreme horrors, will he be able to restrain Mr Monster?

Find out more about author Dan Wells and his books on his website. Purchase your copy of Mr Monster here.

"Sweethearts" by Sara Zarr

2010-07-14T05:14:00.000-07:00

I started reading this book right before a conference, during which I had the opportunity to meet Sara Zarr. (Total coincidence, BTW.) I picked it out of my TBR (to be read) pile one morning on my way to the gym. Right off the bat, I found myself taken with the plight of Jennifer and Cameron, and even got teary eyed, reading while I sweated on the elliptical machine.

This is one of those books that you just don’t want to put down. So. I stayed up until almost 4 am to finish it. I found myself constantly routing for Cameron and Jennifer (now Jenna) to share some kind of dynamic first kiss, or a romance that would span the hands of time. What they ended up with, though, was far more real, and I think, better, than the fate I’d imagined for them.

It was a bittersweet read, but completely satisfying and highly enjoyable.

The Blurb:

As children, Jennifer Harris and Cameron Quick were both social outcasts. They were also one another's only friend. So when Cameron disappears without warning, Jennifer thinks she's lost the only person who will ever understand her. Now in high school, Jennifer has been transformed. Known as Jenna, she's popular, happy, and dating, everything "Jennifer" couldn't be---but she still can't shake the memory of her long-lost friend.

When Cameron suddenly reappears, they are both confronted with memories of their shared past and the drastically different paths their lives have taken.

Sweethearts is a story about the power of memory, the bond of friendship, and the quiet resilience of our childhood hearts.

Check out the author’s website, or purchase your copy of Sweethearts by Sara Zarr.

"The Silence of God" by Gale Sears

2010-07-07T07:33:00.000-07:00

When this book arrived in my mailbox, I set it aside for several days. The title was something of a turnoff, and I thought—at first—that I was being asked to review a nonfiction religious tome. Which, to be honest, is not necessarily my thing. But after passing by it several times, something about it spoke to me, and I read the press releases.

My interest sparked. Just a little. While this book is based on a true story, it touched on a subject about which I’ve never read anything. Ever. I thought, “There were LDS people in Russia in 1917? Really?”

Another day passed, and I got curious. I picked it up and read the first page. Then the whole prologue. Intrigued, I kept going.

I’ll be honest. It took me a while to connect with the characters. I attribute that in part to the fact that Russian names are long and confusing, and there are several key characters in this book. Still, usually if I don’t connect within a few chapters, I don’t finish a book. However, I did keep reading this one because I was fascinated by the extremely well-researched history detailing the rise of the Bolshevik regime and the fall of the beloved Romanov family (think Anastasia). The history kept me riveted, and before I knew it, I was halfway through and completely entrenched in the lives of these characters.

One of the things I really enjoyed was that while there was a romantic element in this story, the relationship that pulled me through was a solid, loving friendship between Natasha Ivanova Gavrilova and Agnes Lindolf.

By the time I got to the end, I’d shed more than a few tears and found myself hoping this is the first in a family saga series. Also, I finally understood the reason for the title, and why The Silence of God is actually perfect for this book.

Here’s the blurb:

At the turn of the twentieth century, St. Petersburg offers the best of Imperial Russia. The vast country is filled with grand cathedrals, a faithful populace, and many people who love and revere Tsar Nicholas II and the Romanov family. But as Russia becomes further entrenched in the Great War, a revolution begins brewing within her own borders.

For the wealthy Lindlof family, the only Latter-day Saints living in St. Petersburg at the time, the glitz and glamour of the Silver Age soon dissolves into mass rebellion, dividing their family and testing their faith. Life for Agnes Lindlof will never be the same—changed forever by an ideology that forces equality and demands the silence of God.

Agnes’s lifelong friend, Natasha Ivanovna Gavrilova, is the daughter of a professor and a firm supporter of Bolshevik ideals; she doesn’t believe in God at all. Yet, when the waves of the revolution wash over her family and her friends, Natasha must examine her own heart and decide for herself what to believe and what voice to listen to.

Based on an amazing true story of the only Latter-day Saint family living in St. Petersburg during the Bolshevik Revolution, The Silence of God is a rare glimpse into a fascinating period of history and a powerful, extraordinary novel of devotion and loyalty.

One last short point. I think the timing of this book is very interesting, as it touches on how Russia ventured into socialism, and the effects the move had on some of the Russian people. Very interesting reading indeed.

I recommend this book for the history buff in you or your family. This is definitely a unique and fresh historical setting for books of this type. (I’m on my way to lend my copy to my father-in-law, who loves this type of stuff.)

Find out more about Gale Sears.

Purchase your copy of The Silence of God.

Watch the book trailer.

"Cut" by Patricia McCormick

2010-06-30T05:57:00.000-07:00

Last May, my daughter brought home a stack of books I'd ordered from a Scholastic book order in September. It's kind of a long story, but let's just say that the order was lost. For the entire school year.I almost forgot about my long-lost books. Until the last week of school when they miraculously showed up. Yay!

Cut by Patricia McCormick, was one of the books I had ordered. (PS I do not know this author.)

From the jacket copy:

Callie cuts herself. Never too deep, never enough to die. But enough to feel the pain. Enough to feel the scream inside.

Now she’s at Sea Pines, a “residential treatment facility” filled with girls struggling with problems of their own, Callie doesn’t want to have anything to do with them. She doesn’t want to have anything to do with anyone, She won’t even speak.

But Callie can only stay silent for so long…

My take:

This is one of those issue books that packs a lot of emotional punch into very few words. My paperback edition is unusually small, and still very thin, coming in at 151 pages. And yet, in so few pages, McCormick manages to paint a vivid picture of a young girl’s pain, and the emotional trauma that was a cataclysmic event in her life.

It hooked me well enough that even though I picked it up on a very busy day, I had it finished by the end. Different from the fun, romantic books I usually read, this one touches on the more serious issue of young people deliberately damaging their bodies—through eating disorders or cutting—as a sort of punishment for things that have happened in their lives, or a way of controlling something when the rest of the world has gone haywire for them.

The main character, Callie, is very disturbed by things happening in her home, and is at some point pushed over the edge by her lack of control. Unfortunately, this kind of thing occurs all too often in today’s society, and though it’s disturbing, I appreciate authors who are willing to tackle these issues in order to help other young adults and their parents better understand them.

This particular issue book is clean enough that I will definitely encourage both my teens, as well as my tween, to read it.

Want to know more? Check out Patricia McCormick’s website.

Purchase your copy of Cut.

An Interview with Author Heather Justesen

2010-06-28T05:40:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to participate in the blog tour for Rebound, by Heather Justesen. In following up with that review, Heather has graciously granted me an interview.

NG: Hi Heather! I’m so glad to get to talk to you today. I loved Rebound. Especially that one really great kissing scene…ahem. Yes, I really should change the subject. So…let’s start with food. What is your main character’s favorite food?

HJ: Chocolate chip cookies, though she is rather fond of strawberry cheesecake (but then, aren't we all?)

NG: Yes, yes we are. I must agree. Personally, I believe that cheesecake can turn a person into a hero. Speaking of that, if your main character was a super hero, what would be her super power?

HJ: She'd be like a wood nymph, making everything grow and flower around her. She didn't kill nearly as many plants last summer from neglect as I did.

NG: Hm. That makes sense.

*crosses fingers that Heather won’t ask about my gardening skills—or lack thereof*

NG: If your main character had an animal, what kind would she choose and what would she name it?

HJ: A dog named Bark...oh, wait, that's coming up in the next book, and I guess her son picks the name. Does that still count?

NG: Sure! That works. She really doesn’t have much time on her hands, does she? But even so, what is your main character’s favorite TV show?

HJ: She's a mom, so she doesn't have much time for TV, but she is rather fond of Psych, because that Shaun guy is a nut, and she loves anything on the Food Network.

NG: That’s so totally what I would’ve guessed. Well, the Food Network part anyway. Don’t all moms watch that? Now for the harder questions. If you and your main character were stranded on a desert island together, how would you work together to get rescued? Or would you prefer to stay stranded?

HJ: Oh, I think after being stranded there for a few weeks (with plenty of books to read and chocolate to munch on), we'd decide it was time to gather wood and palm fronds to create our signal fire and tell someone to come pick us up. Of course, neither of us knows Morse Code, but hey, SOS is pretty simple!

NG: If you ever turn up missing after a plane crash or shipwreck, I’ll remember to watch for signals of that type.

*decides to get to the real questions*

NG: Most writers have a story about a time when the main character of their work in progress spoke to them so persistently that they actually interfered in something the author was trying to do. Do you have one such story and will you share it with us? (In as few words as possible.)

HJ: When I wrote my first draft of "The Ball's in Her Court" it was supposed to be about Lily and Denise both, but Denise just had these issues that took over the story, and then John ended up being the kind of person you wanted to shoot instead of live with for eternity. That's how "Rebound" came to be, because Lily deserved something way better than John, and Curtis was the kind of guy I could see her with--and he'd shown interest in her already.

NG: And Lily thanks you for that, as do your fans. If you were friends with your main character—wait, let me rephrase—if your MC came to visit you, what would you do to spend time together?

HJ: Probably just hang out and giggle. Lily and I are both pretty much homebodies and sometimes you just have to get together with your girlfriends, chat and eat too much chocolate (if such a thing is possible). Oh, and watch girl movies--that's always welcome!

NG: While you traveled the road of rejection, what are a few things you and your characters did to survive the trauma?

Author: We read a lot. And baked a lot of chocolate cake, though I really wish Lily would share some of her gourmet recipes and techniques with me--I'm seriously jealous of her culinary skills. I'm a great trauma survivor--just avoid thinking about the trauma until you can face rewrites or resubmission is the easiest way--though it's perhaps not quite as efficient as it should be. Sometimes I'd visit other characters for a while instead. Working on another book is a great way to avoid thinking about the one that is getting rejected at the moment.

NG: That method sounds all too familiar. Hm. I wonder if we picked it up from attending the same conferences or something. Hm. Anyway, if you had the opportunity to have one meal with one character in your story, which character would it be, where would you eat, and who would pay?

HJ: This was a hard decision because there are so many great options. Probably my all-time-favorite restaurant is this little Italian place on East Center in Provo called Ottavio's and everything on their menu is completely delish! It would probably be with Lily, although if we were eating in Utah County, we'd totally have to invite Denise to join us for a girl's night. As for who would pay--we'd probably go Dutch, but if we were celebrating something that could change.

NG: Sounds like lots of fun. And now I’m craving Italian food. Thanks a lot.

No really, thanks Heather, for chatting with me. This has been fun. Stay tuned this Wednesday for my review of Cut.

To find out more about Heather Justesen and her books, check out her website or blog.

"Spells" by Aprilynne Pike

2010-06-23T05:45:00.000-07:00

From Aprilynne’s Website:

Spells, the sequel to Aprilynne Pike's #1 New York Times best-selling debut, continues the story of a not-so-ordinary girl named Laurel.

"I can’t just storm in and proclaim my intentions. I cant 'steal' you away. I just have to wait and hope that, someday, you’ll ask," Tamani said.

"And if I don't?" Laurel said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Then I guess I’ll be waiting forever."

Six months have passed since Laurel saved the gateway to the faerie realm of Avalon. Now she must spend her summer there, honing her skills as a Fall faerie. But her human family and friends are still in mortal danger--and the gateway to Avalon is more compromised than ever.

When it comes time to protect those she loves, will she depend on David, her human boyfriend, for help? Or will she turn to Tamani, the electrifying faerie with whom her connection is undeniable?

My take:

I loved Wings. For real. First of all, any book that includes fantasy, faeries, and kissing is right up my alley. But also, the premise of the Fae in these books is fresh, fun, and unique. I love that each of these books is a fully rounded story that comes to a satisfying conclusion in the end, even while leaving subtle hints about something more to come in future volumes. To me, this is how series books should be crafted.

The characters are likeable, even though I found myself cringing at some of Laurel’s choices. Let’s face it. All characters make mistakes. If they were too perfect, we’d have a hard time loving them the way we do.

What strikes me most in this book is the underlying focus (well hidden) on family and relationships with the people we love. This is not one of those YA books in which there are no parents or adult role models for the main characters. Actually, it’s one in which those adults are a primary focus of importance in Laurel’s life and thoughts. Were it not for her parents, as well as her human boyfriend, Laurel could easily walk away from human life altogether to live in the luxury of Avalon. But those relationships are important to her—thank goodness! Whatever would we do if the trolls took over?

Once again, I’m torn between my boyfriend team loyalties. On the one hand, Laurel’s human boyfriend, David, is the epitome of the perfect guy. He’d do anything for her, even give his life. He’s tall, romantic, and completely sexy. And sweet, too.

On the other hand, Tamani, a spring faery, is tough, wild, and well, he’d also do anything for Laurel. It’s a hard choice. For real.

But I believe David has done more to earn her love, therefore, I give this round to him.

Sadly, neither Tam or David is immortal. Which means both can be killed by a hundred different things—especially the evil trolls. This is a bad thing, since I have a feeling something big is coming their way in the next book.

Since both guys are going to have to fight for Laurel’s love and loyalty, I won’t pit them against Edward or Jacob. I mean, come on. Laurel can only save them from so much certain destruction. And she’s going to need them the next time the trolls come after her.

Still not sure who you like best? Find out for yourself.

Read my previous review of Wings.

To learn more about Aprilynne Pike and her books, click here, here, or here.

Purchase your copy of Wings or Spells.

The Golden Spiral by Lisa Mangum

2010-06-16T06:35:00.000-07:00

The Blurb:

His eyes. His touch. His kiss. Dante was unlike anyone Abby had ever met. Now he’s gone, and Abby will do anything to get him back…

The hourglass door has closed behind Dante, sending him back in time to hunt down Zo, Tony, and V. Abby knows that Dante, as a Master of Time, is the only one who can stop them from destroying time itself. She also knows that he will need her help. But almost immediately, things start to change and Abby’s worst fears are realized when Zo begins targeting her past specifically.

With each new change that ripples into her present, Abby’s life continues to spiral out of control. Her relationships with Jason, Natalie, and even her family, are threatened to the breaking point – and beyond. Zo’s power is greater than Abby ever imagined, and as she struggles to free Dante, she receives help from an unexpected – and unlikely – ally.

As Abby’s world fractures around her, she must face a terrible truth: either Dante didn’t make it through the door, or he is lost forever. So with Dante’s blueprints in hand, she begins construction on a new door, a new time machine that will either save Dante – or doom him.

The river of time is running wild, churning up secrets and betrayals, revelations and promises. With each new turn of the river, Abby faces a new challenge. Who can she trust? And how many more changes can she survive?

The bank is eroding, the barriers are thinning. And time is running out.

Okay, seriously people. This book is fantastic. It’s the second in a trilogy. The first, The Hourglass Door, was recently named the National Book of the Year for Young Adult Fiction (by ForeWord reviews). And I was so pleased, because I couldn’t think of another book that deserved it more. When I read The Hourglass Door last year, I was shocked and awed at the brilliance that has manifested in Lisa Mangum’s debut novel.

After reading The Hourglass Door, I was so frustrated. Not because I didn’t love the book, but because I knew I’d have to wait a full year before being able to read The Golden Spiral to find out what happens next. And here I am again, completely in love with these characters and this story, and left waiting for yet another year before I can read The Forgotten Locket and see this story concluded.

This is not a bad thing. Just an uncomfortable one. It’s like an itch you really want to scratch but can’t quite reach. If I had a time machine like the characters in the story, I could go forward and get a sneak peak at the next volume. Hm. I wonder.

Unfortunately, unlike Abby in the book, I don’t know a master of time, nor have I ever seen a time machine built and designed by Leonardo Da Vinci. But. I am willing to wait. Because seriously, the series is just. That. Good. And I know the wait will be worth it.

What girl wouldn’t love Dante, who’s sexy Italian accent could make anyone swoon, and who loves his leading lady, Abby, with such sweet ferocity that nothing else seems to matter as long as they can be together.

*closes eyes with a sigh*

I’m just going to say it. I think Dante could take Edward in a fight.

No, really. Edward may be fast, but Dante can jump in and out of time. I mean, come on, people! And both are supposedly immortal, so…yeah.

Also. He might be even better looking than Jacob. Maybe. (Tough to do since the release of New Moon, IMO.)

For real. Oh yes, and in case you’re wondering, while this book could be classified as paranormal, it’s also very much a romance and has met all the requirements on my scale to garner a five-star romance rating.

I hope Lisa sells the movie rights soon. It would make an incredible film.

But don’t take my word for it. Hurry out to the nearest bookstore (or Walmart if you want) and snatch up your copies of both The Hourglass Door and The Golden Spiral.

Read my previous review of The Hourglass Door.

Learn more about author Lisa Mangum.

Purchase your copy of The Hourglass Door and The Golden Spiral.

"Rebound" by Heather Justesen

2010-06-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while I have the opportunity to review a book with a romantic storyline that makes my heart sigh. I admit I’m a sucker for a good, clean romance. But I’m also very particular about my romantic tastes. I even have a specific checklist of requirements that I find necessary in a well-written romance novel.

Luckily, Heather Justesen’s Rebound fits my tastes very well.

Let’s check, shall we?

1. Kissing scenes that make your knees weak and heart pound. *check*

2. Enough internal conflict to turn you inside-out, and back again by the end of the book. *check*

3. External conflict that keeps the characters apart and makes you wonder if they’ll really end up together in the end, but you want them to so badly that you just can’t put the book down until you find out. *check*

4. A dose of humor to break up the drama, and scenes that make you cry and laugh at the same time. *check*

5. A satisfying ending in which the characters have grown, and so has the reader. *check, check*

Well, there you have it. Rebound has officially passed my five-star romance test. Here’s the blurb:

With a successful husband, a gorgeous home, and a growing family, Lily Drake has it all. But when the FBI shows up, she realizes her husband is not the man she thought he was.

Meanwhile, Lily's friend Curtis is about to be drafted by the NBA, but he suddenly feels pulled to find his birth family, and no one is prepared for what he'll discover. With so many obstacles in their way, Lily and Curtis must learn to rely on each other if they're ever going to find peace and learn to love again.

In this heartwarming family drama, Heather Justesen, author of The Ball's in Her Court, weaves a stirring story of hope. Reunite with your favorite characters and discover how determination, love, and faith can overcome even the toughest trials.

Rebound is not a sequel to Heather’s other book, The Ball’s In Her Court, but the storyline is a continuation of a story started in that book, so expect to see some familiar characters and family members. I really like when authors do this, because once I’ve read a first book and become invested in the characters, seeing them again in another story feels a little like visiting a friend you haven’t seen for a long time. It delves you deeper into both stories, and gives you even more reason to become involved.

What’s more, this story isn’t just about boy meets girl and the romance that follows. This story delves into family ties, fraud, trust, adoption, early childhood trauma and what it takes for some people to overcome the past so they can move onto the future. Talk about a lot of content in one little book. This is why I’m such a fan of Heather’s work.

But don’t take my word for it. You be the judge.

Click here to learn more about Heather Justesen.

Click here to read the first chapter of Rebound.

Purchase your copy of Rebound or here for The Ball’s In Her Court.

Winner, Winner, Come on Down!

2010-06-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

Hi all! It's little ole' me, here to announce the winner of a hardcover copy of the new Stephenie Meyer book, The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner.

If you missed out on this contest, don't worry. There are still lots of opportunities to win other fun Twilight-esque stuff. In fact, if you check out the Inksplasher blog, there's a new chance to win every day. Hurry over and enter for today's prize drawing!

The winner for Saturday's contest is...

Alden!

Alden, since your profile is private, we have no way to track you down. Please email me with your information at writenichole at gmail dot com so I can get your book to you.

Thanks for playing everyone! Stay tuned on Wednesday for a review of Rebound by Heather Justesen.

Chasing Twilight Tour Stop: Win a Copy of "The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner"

2010-06-04T23:32:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by for our Chasing Twilight road trip! Yesterday, the girls and I had a grand time visiting Jackson Hole, Wyoming--a fantastic hunting ground for the infamous Cullens. Did you know Jackson is a great place to meet celebrities? Yeah, it is.

Karlene posted pictures here. Yes, that is Harrison Ford, but no, you cannot have his phone number. I promised to keep that a secret.

But that's not why you're here. You're here looking for the question of the day, and for your opportunity to win a free book. Unfortunately, it is not signed because I do not personally know Stephenie Meyer, and therefore don't have a direct email address for her. Maybe someday I'll request some bookplates. I digress. Anyway, the prize of the day is a copy of The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner, which is released...wait, today! Yay! (Yes, I admit I'm excited, as always happens when a fun new book is released.)

And here is the magic question:

Who is the lone female wolf in Jacob's pack?

To enter to win today's prize, become a follower (required) and correctly answer today's Twilight trivia question in the comment section by midnight June 5th. If you miss the deadline, no worries. You can still enter to win the grand prize by leaving a comment anytime before July 3rd.

*If more than one person answers correctly, those entries will be entered chosen by a random generator.

Good luck!

For more chances to win, visit the Inksplasher blog.

"Awakening Avery" by Laurie Lewis

2010-06-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

I got my copy of Awakening Avery in a package with three other books, and in a week when five others found their way to my house through various means. It says something to me that Awakening Avery is the first one I chose to read—and not necessarily because I knew my blog tour date was closing in on me. (I’m a fast reader, so I knew I could fit another one in first if I really wanted.) The truth is I’ve never read anything by Laurie Lewis before, but I’ve heard lots of good things about her books, and I was curious.

Plus, I’d been anticipating reading this particular book for over a month. And I was not disappointed. Though I was originally geared up for a heart-wrenching ride with the grieving Thompson family, I actually found this book uplifting, thought provoking, and full of hope.

Here’s the Blurb:

"You're depressed," the doctor declared.

"Ya think?" is author Avery Elkins Thompson's sarcastic response to the astute diagnosis for the malaise that set in following her husband's untimely death. Avery's carefully controlled world is imploding, and her adult children fear they are losing her too.

"You're just a shadow of the person you used to be...We'd gladly give you up for a while if it meant getting you back."

Avery can't write, and questions about their father's death leave the family mired in pain. "We need a healing place," her oldest son tells her, suggesting she find it on Anna Maria Island, Florida, a former family vacation spot.

When Avery returns to Baltimore to sell the family's waterfront condo, she meets rodeo-ers-turned-real-estate-brokers Teddie and Rider Davis, and Avery's quiet life will never be the same again.

The Davises help arrange a short-term house swap with widower Gabriel Carson from Anna Maria, whose overprotective parenting has resulted in two self-centered, twenty-something daughters. Avery and Gabriel are in for the summer of their lives as they step into one another's messy, complicated worlds.

Still, venturing out on her own again is challenging for Avery, whose experiences at the Ringling's magnificent Ca d'Zan mansion, and with the quirky characters she meets there, eventually awaken her to truths she has long forgotten - that as crazy as life can be, it is possible to laugh and love again.

I enjoyed the subplots with Avery’s children, as well as Gabriel and his daughters. And admittedly, when Gabriel mentioned that he’d become a helicopter, constantly hovering over the heads of his children, that struck a chord in me. Because I have been known to have that tendency as well, and am discovering that it’s not always a good thing. Sometimes, our children have to make their own mistakes so they can learn from them.

Though I didn’t originally expect the plot to be centered on religion, it does all circle back to that. Though, not in a preachy way. It just came down to the choices of the characters involved deciding what they believed was right, or how they should live.It's very much a feel good book.

I did feel like the ending wrapped up a little too neatly, but then I’m a huge fan of happy endings.

But don’t take my word for any of it. You be the judge! Oh, and don’t forget to enter to win your free copy and/or a beautiful Anna Maria Island themed pendant. While you're at it, check out my way fun interview with Laurie.

For more information about Laurie Lewis and her books, click here.

To purchase your copy of Awakening Avery, click here.

Chasing Twilight! The Contest

2010-06-01T06:00:00.001-07:00

Hi and welcome to Chasing Twilight—our Countdown to Eclipse Virtual Road Trip to Forks Twilight Trivia Contest.

Yeah. That's a lot to remember. Don't worry about it. All you need to remember is to check the Inksplasher blog every day, read the new posts, and follow the directions. Easy-peasy. Promise.

But for those of you who want the nitty-gritty details, here they are.

Daily Posts
Every day from June 1 through July 3, there will be three posts.

Eclipse Trivia posts: Correctly answer the trivia question in the comments section of the post by the deadline and you will be entered to win the Daily Prize. Correctly answer the question any time before July 3, 2010 and you earn 1 point toward the Grand Prize.
Forks Road Trip posts: We will be taking a virtual road trip from Pleasant Grove, UT to Forks, WA. Travel with us as we visit various tourist sites along the way and in and around Forks. Correctly answer the Road Trip question in the comments section of the post by the deadline and you will be entered to win the Daily Prize. Correctly answer the question any time before July 3, 2010 and you earn 1 point toward the Grand Prize.
Visit our Sponsor posts: Follow the link to visit the sponsor of the Daily Prize. Correctly answer the question in the comments section on their post by the deadline and you will be entered to win the Daily Prize. Correctly answer the question any time before July 3, 2010 and you earn 2 points toward the Grand Prize.

Earning Grand Prize Points
The Chasing Twilight Grand Prize is truly awesome. We'll be adding prizes throughout the contest. Anyone who earns 100 points or more will be entered to win the Grand Prize. Winner will be chosen using Random.com

How do you earn points? Glad you asked!

Daily Posts: Participate in the Daily Posts as described above. If you get every answer correct, you will have earned 136 points.
Mr. Linky: Sign-Up using the Mr. Linky on the Inksplasher blog so we can visit each other and talk Twilight. :) Earn 10 points.
Blogs: Write a post about the Contest, include a link back to this post and the Inksplasher blog. Earn 10 points per blog.
Buttons: Put a Chasing Twilight button on your blog, website or facebook page. Earn 10 points per site. (GO HERE for button codes.)
Facebook: Talk about the Chasing Twilight Road Trip on Facebook, include a link back to this post and the Inksplasher post. Earn 10 points per facebook profile.
Twitter: Twitter about Chasing Twilight. Earn 1 point per day that you Tweet about the contest.
Return and Report: You MUST come back here and tell me what you've done to earn the points. Leave links to your blog, facebook page, twitter, etc.

Author Spotlight: A Visit With Author L.C. Lewis and a Contest!

2010-05-26T20:06:00.000-07:00

Next week I’ll be reviewing Awakening Avery by L.C. Lewis. I’m in the middle of reading the book right now, and let me just warn you that I’m very into it. Anyway, since the blog tour doesn’t start until next week, (my day is officially June 4th) I thought I’d give you all some insight to the author.

NG: Hi Laurie.

*Shakes hands* * suppresses a giggle*

Thanks for visiting with me today. Inquiring minds want to know: what’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? Lately I’ve been really into Ben and Jerry’s Key Lime Pie.

LCL: Key Lime Pie, eh? Were you in any way influenced by Awakening Avery's repetitive references to Key Lime Pie? I have to say Strawberry Cheesecake has my vote. I became "Key Lime'd" out after the book launch. I ordered thirty pounds of Key Lime fudge for that event and we still have a bit of that hanging around the house.

NG: Uh, no. I’ve only seen one reference to the pie so far, but now you’re really making me crave it. Doh! And I must say, Key Lime fudge? Yu-um. But Strawberry Cheesecake flavor? Yeah, I’d take that and run too.

Anyway, moving onto the next question. Who is your favorite author? (Besides yourself or me, since everyone already knows we’re both awesome.)

LCL: This interview is better than therapy! Well, if you and I are off-limits, I'd have to say Nicholas Sparks, who breaks my heart with every book. (Why do I love his books then?) It's a sickness. . .

NG: I agree. I hate books that make me cry, but I still manage to read them sometimes. But then I need a break afterwards for a while. Speaking of breaks, what is your most favorite thing to do when you’re not writing?

LCL: Hanging with my family. They're all grown now, and most live far away from home, but they are some crazy, fun people and I love any time I can have with them.

NG: *makes shifty eyes* I’m not even going to ask what you and your family like to hang from. If you were an animal, what kind would you be and why? (I’m kind of wondering if you’re thinking monkey…)

LCL: I'd like to be a Panda Bear. They get all those nice ooohs and ahhhs at the zoo.

NG: Oh, well, they tend to hang out in trees too, so I suppose that makes total and complete sense. Since you’re not a panda, do you prefer diamonds or pearls?

LCL: It's situational thing. I have some pearls, but diamonds? Not so many, though my activities tend more towards pearls. In truth, I'm a clunky jewelry person--big earrings and classy stuff like that.

NG: Personally, I believe it’s good to have a variety of different pieces. A girl can never have too much jewelry.

Last question. Name one or two power snacks that keep you going as you write.

LCL: I like orange wedges a lot, though they do make my keyboard sticky, and I hate to admit my passion for anything dipped in queso cheese sauce. I try to choose veggies, but the occasional Dorito finds its way into my cheese. My bad. . .

NG: Queso? Yes, that sounds delish, even with an occasional stray Dorito. Or hey, what about fondue? Fondue is also a great cheese…wait, now you have me distracted. And hungry. I think I need to go get a snack. Anyway, thanks for the visit, and for writing a great book that’s making me do lots of thinking.

LCL: Thanks for the fun questions, Nichole. Always a pleasure to visit with you!

NG: The pleasure has been mine as well, Laurie. Readers can stop back by on June 4th to read the full review.

To find out more about L.C. Lewis or her books, click here.

Summer's here and what better way to kick it off than with a blog tour for
Awakening Avery by Laurie Lewis as Awakening Avery
is the perfect poolside read.

Avery can't cope with the death of her husband and is finally convinced by
her son to return to the family's Anna Maria Island vacation spot. With the
help from some new-found friends, Avery swaps her house with a widower
named Gabriel. As Avery and Gabriel step into each others lives, they begin
a correspondence that leads to spiritual and emotional awakening for each
of them.

We're giving away 3 fabulous prizes.
Two readers will win their own copy of Awakening Avery! Yeah. There will be one lucky grand prize
winner who will the beautiful necklace below. The contest opens June 2 and
will close June 13 at midnight MST.

June 1 Sheila Stayley
Why Not? Because I
Said So!LDS Women's Book Review

June 2 Alison Palmer
Tangled Words and Dreams

June 3 Kimberly Jobs
Scribbled Scraps

June 4 Nichole Giles
Star Crossed Book Reviews

June 7 Deanne Blackhurst
The Book of Deanne

June 8 Tristi Pinkston
*Tristi Pinkston, LDS
Author

June 9 C.S. Bezas
For the Love of the Written Word

June 10 Joan Sowards
Joan Sowards

June 11 Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen
The Write Blocks

Entering the contest is easy--all you have to do is blog, tweet, follow, or
comment and then fill out this little form HERE.

1. Follow our reviewers blogs.
(1 entry for each blog you follow.)

2. Leave a comment on a
review. (1 entry for each review you comment on.)

2. Blog about Awakening Avery, the contest, or a review. (3 entries
for each blog post.)

3. Follow us on twitter. (1 entry
for each person you follow.)
Walnut Springs Press
http://twitter.com/walnutspringspr
Nichole Giles
http://twitter.com/nicholegiles
LDS Women's Book Review
http://twitter.com/LDSWBR
Sheila Stayley
http://twitter.com/ssdawn2002
Kimberly Job
http://twitter.com/kimberlyjob
Joan Sowards
http://twitter.com/joansowards

4. Tweet about the contest. (2
entries for each tweet.)

5. Post about the contest on your
Facebook. (2 entries for each facebook post or status update
about the contest.)

6. Become a fan of Walnut Springs Press on Facebook. (1 entry for becoming a fan.)

7. Anything else you can think of that
will spread the word. (3 entries for every social media site you post
on.) If you mention it on goodreads, shelfari,google buzz, make it your
status on gmail chat, MSN or yahoo messenger let us know. We'll reward your
creativity with entries.

Imprints by Rachel Ann Nunes

2010-05-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when my copy of Imprints arrived in the mail. I’ve been a fan of Rachel Ann Nunes since reading and reviewing Saving Madeline last year. When I heard Nunes was venturing in to the paranormal romance genre, I was definitely intrigued.

The premise of this book is exciting and believable. Autumn Rain’s abilities are incredible, and yet cost her a great deal of anguish, and I really liked her as a main character, as well as Jake, her best friend and part-time love interest. I wasn’t sure how I felt about her constant indecision when it came to the male characters who were all possible love interests, though. For me, that kind of hurt the authenticity of everything else Autumn seemed to be about as a person. But as a whole, I really enjoyed the story and how everything unfolded.

This is a clean read, one that would be classified as a Sweet Romance. Meaning, no bad language or gratuitous love scenes. Even the kissing scenes were rather chaste, and left mostly to the reader’s imagination. However, there is little or no content that would be considered religious, either. So while the characters are adults, this story is one I would be completely comfortable having my teenager read.

The blurb:

Sometimes what you can't see means everything.

A young woman is missing. In desperation, her parents turn to Autumn Rain for help. Autumn reads imprints - emotions mysteriously left behind on certain treasured objects. But will this ability enrich her life or destroy it?

Autumn isn't sure - her life has become far from normal - but for people whose loved ones are missing, her talent might mean the difference between life and death. Even the infuriating Detective Martin has asked for Autumn's help, though at times she feels more like a suspect than a consultant. Too often Autumn find herself retreating to her antiques shop and the company of her best friend, Jake Ryan, to avoid notice.

But soon more than one woman is missing, and Autumn teams up with private eye Ethan McConnell to investigate their disappearance. Ethan's attraction to her is a pleasant change from Jake's frustrating offers of friendship, but once Autumn takes that first step, she sets in motion a series of events that risk not only her own life but the lives of those she cares most about.

How does Imprints compare to Saving Madeline? Hm. Well, Saving Madeline is written in third person, rather than first, and is about a very real subject that is a serious problem in society today. It may be fiction, but there is nothing paranormal or fantasyish about it. So, while I really enjoyed Imprints and will definitely continue reading the series, Saving Madeline is still my favorite of the two.

You be the judge, though! Read my review of Saving Madeline here.

To read more about Rachel Ann Nunes and her other works, click here.

To purchase your copy of Imprints, click here.

Welcome to My Book Blog!

2010-05-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

Okay. I've been debating this point for months, but have only now taken the time to set this up. Like I don't have enough blogs or something. But the truth is, I don't. Because my author blog is becoming a bit over-booked, and I need to narrow my focus there. My other blogs all have purposes other than book reviews, too. So.

Since I don't really want to stop doing book reviews, the best solution was for me to start a review site that is dedicated solely to reviewing books and spotlighting authors.

Welcome to Star Crossed Book Reviews! I promise to always give honest, if gentle, feedback on books I've read, books I want to read, and books that have long been favorites of mine. On this blog I also intend to interview and spotlight authors as well. Heck. being an author myself, I happen to have a few connections to interesting people. And those authors I don't know, well, maybe I'll interview them anyway. There's no better way to make a new friend.

So the next time you're looking for something fantabulous to read, I hope you'll stop by here and see what I thought of the books I've read. Maybe I'll recommend something you can love too.

But if you just can't wait for me to fill this blog with hundreds of reviews, no worries. You're more than welcome to find older reviews done on my author blog. (Or you can click on any of the covers featured on the sidebar.)

I hope to see you soon!

Nichole