I'm incorporating this information in the Newsletter link at the top of my blog at:
http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/
If you have signed up for Feedblitz on this blog, please unsubscribe soon. I will be taking this blog down in about a month. That should give all of you time to disconnect. Feel free to subscribe to Feedblitz on the other blog. A new Newsletter will go up on the Newsletter page the 1st or 2nd of each month. Don't forget to check them out.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Monday, March 1, 2010
March 2010
Take Time With The Lord Every Day
He wants to commune with you on a deeper level than ever before.
Announcements
I came back from a writers’ retreat to find that Misty Taggart of Trailers to the Stars had completed the book trailer for my next release. I love it. See if you do, too:
Also, I was privileged to be one of the contributing authors of Fiction and Truth.
Stories that Speak to the Soul.
When Jesus walked this earth, He taught most often by telling stories. We call them parables. Afterward, He explained to His listeners (or, in some cases, exclusively to His disciples) the parallels and meanings that could be derived from the story. Fiction and Truth follows this effective format. Christian authors tell engaging short stories with memorable characters in fascinating situations.
Following each story is a brief Author’s Application in which the writer suggests how the lessons of the stories can be applied to the reader s daily life.
Here’s a link where you can order it:
I only had four people sign my Guest Book on my web site in January. I chose two winners for the books. Liza Quisisem from Newark, California, and Erin Valentine from Bentonville, Arkansas. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/ . The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 16 free books a month on my blog: http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/. Most months we give away more than that. This month I am interviewing these authors:
DiAnn Mills – Sworn to Protect
Robin Caroll – Dead Air
Allie Pleiter – Easter Promises
Elizabeth Baker – How to Hang Loose in an Uptight World
Robin Shope – The Easter Edition
Louise Gouge – The Captain’s Lady
Rosey Dow – Homecoming
Athol Dickson – Lost Mission
Amber Miller – Liberty’s Promise
Lisa Wingate – Never Say Never
Kathy Howard – God’s Truth Revealed
Bonnie Leon – Touching the Clouds
Sarah Sundin – A Distant Melody
Gail Sattler – The Narrow Path
Sandra Bricker – The Big 5-OH
Amanda Cabot – Scattered Petals
Liz Babbs – Celtic Treasure
Jim Rubart – Rooms
Richard Mabry – Code Blue
Lisa Harris – Blood Ransom
Lesa Henderson – Someone to Trust
Sharlene MacLaren – Abbie Ann
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Another place you can find out what’s going on in Christian publishing today:
http://canblog.typepad.com/
I’ love for you to follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/lenandooley
Calendar of Events
March 2010 – Release of A Daughter’s Quest, Thorndike Press hard-back, large-print edition
April 10, 2010 – DFW Ready Writers, Colleyville, Texas, Utilizing the Internet
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 1, 2010 – Book Release Party, Mardel Christian Store, Hurst, Texas, 1-3 pm. Please join us for lots of fun.
May 15, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm), WoodsEdge Community Church– Two workshops Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
June 26, 2010 – ACFW local chapter – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level
September 17 – 20, 2010 – ACFW National Conference, Indianapolis, Indiana
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
Becoming Lucy
By Martha Rogers
ISBN 978-1-59979-912-4
Realms
Historical Christian Romance
Back Cover Copy:
Will Heiress LUCINDA BISHOP Learn the Meaning of TRUE LOVE and FORGIVENESS on the Oklahoma Plains?
In 1896, after her parents' deaths, seventeen-year-old heiress Lucinda Bishop is sent to Oklahoma to live with her aunt and uncle. But Oklahoma ranch life brings her more than she bargained for when she meets ranch hand Jake Starnes, a drifter who is running from his past. As her friendship with Jake grows, Lucinda faces emotions she's never before experienced.
As Jake learns more about God's love for him, he realizes he must face his past and the consequences of his actions, even if it means he will lose the one girl he loves. Will he be able to get his life together before someone else claims her hand. . .or even her life?
My Review:
I was privileged to read this book before it released and give an endorsement of it. Here's my endorsement:
"This book is a wonderful debut novel. A real winner. It has a variety of multidimensional characters, a realistic and well-defined setting, and a story that pulls the reader into the nineteenth century and doesn't let go until the last page. I can hardly wait for the next book in the series."
And to borrow the words of my friend Janice Hanna Thompson, "Highly recommended to all readers who are on a journey to 'becoming' all they are meant to be in Christ."
I second that recommendation.
Code Blue
By Richard L. Mabry, MD
ISBN 978-1-426-70236-5
Abingdon Press
Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Back Cover Copy:
Who wants Dr. Cathy Sewell dead?
For Dr. Cathy Sewell, CODE BLUE means more than just the cardiac emergencies she faces--it's the state of her life when the return to her hometown doesn't bring the peace she so desperately needs.
The town doctors resent the fact that she's not only a newcomer but also a woman, and the devastating results from one of her prescriptions may mean the end of her practice.
As two men compete for her affection, an enemy wants her out of town--or possibly even dead.
My Review:
I love this debut novel. Dr. Mabry created medical scenes that were technical enough to be authentic, but still understandable by laymen readers. And the suspense in the story took a lot of twists and turns, with plenty of red herrings to throw the reader off the right track. I love suspense stories like that, with twist endings.
I fell in love with the characters, even many of the secondary ones. Altogether a satisfying read.
The Sheriff’s Surrender
By Susan Page Davis
ISBN 978-1-60260-562-6
Barbour
Historical Christian Romance
Ladies' Shooting Club, Book 1
Back Cover Copy:
A Murder in Fergus, Idaho, had the Townswomen Scared
Gert Dooley can shoot the tail feathers off a jay at a hundred yards from years of test-firing the guns her brother repairs. But long after giving up on marriage, she yearns for rancher Ethan Chapman to see she's more than a crack shot with a firearm. When murder strikes in the sleepy town, Gert forms the Ladies' Shooting Club to teach the women how to protect themselves, their families, and their businesses.
Ethan Chapman didn't ask to be named sheriff, but he acceptes the position and takes on the investigation into the mysterious death of his predecessor. Now he's between a rock and a hard place--being pressured by the townswomen to restore order and safety to Fergus, and by the men who insist Ethan disband the upstart Ladies' Shooting Club.
When another person is murdered, Ethan must turn to Gert and her ladies to help in the investigation. But will Ethan, Gert, and the Ladies' Shooting Club find the murderer before he strikes again.
My Review:
Susan Page Davis is an author like me. One who writes in several genres. And she does each one very well. She grounded the readers in the setting right away and pulled them into the lives of the well-defined characters. With a believable plot that has a mystery attached to it, she weaves a tale that keeps readers turning pages.
I love historical novels. I love mysteries. And I love this book that combines the two. You won't want to miss this wonderful read.
Sons of Thunder
By Susan May Warren
ISBN 978-1-935416-67-8
Summerside Press
Nostalgic Romantic Suspense
The Brothers of Arms Collection
Back Cover Copy:
Two Brothers Love Her--But Only One Can Have Her Heart.
Sofia Frangos is torn between the love of hot-headed, passionate Markos and his younger brother, quiet, intelligent Dino. Markos longs to honor his family, Dino wants to forget the tragedy that drove them from their Greek home to the shores of America. One brother offers the past she loves. the other, a future. Which "Son of Thunder" will she choose? From Chicago's sultry jazz-era clubs. . .to Europe's World War II battlefields. . .to a final showdown on a Greek Island, the SONS OF THUNDER discover betrayal, sacrifice--and finally. . .redemption.
My Review:
I've loved every Susan May Warren book I've ever read. SONS OF THUNDER is probably her best so far. Her word choices evoke deep emotions and even physical sensations in the reader. In some ways stark, but in others lyrical. And the pictures of the places are vivid. This book touches on the human condition in adverse situations, revealing just how far our choices can take us from God. But it also reveals the great love of a merciful God, who is always ready to forgive and redeem.
This is one of the first two books in the new Summerside Press Nostalgic Romantic Suspense line. If all the books live up to this one, they will be must-reads for lovers of romance or suspense.
Songbird Under a German Moon
By Tricia Goyer
ISBN 978-1-935416-68-5
Summerside Press
Nostalgic (Historical) Romantic Suspense
Back Cover Copy:
DATELINE: 1945. THE WAR IS OVER.
And USO singer Betty Lake travels to post-Hitler Germany to entertain occupying U.S. troops. Her first performance is a hit, and she's enthralled by the applause...by her quarters in a former Nazi-held mansion...and by the attention of Frank Witt, a dashing U.S. Army Air Corps combat photographer. Yet this songbird gets her feathers ruffled when her roommate, Kat, goes missing under syspicion of foul play. Is Betty a target, too?
Betty and Frank team up against post-war grudges, and together, the lovebirds seek answers. But will they have a chance for their romance to sing? The truth is revealed under a German Moon.
My Review:
I'm loving these new Summerside Press romantic suspense novels. I reveiwed Susan May Warren's first. Now with Tricia Goyer's, the story is a somewhat softer suspense, but equally as interesting. And the spiritual thread is a little stronger.
My aunt was a U.S. Army nurse in Germany at this time, and she's shared a lot of things with me. This book dovetails with what I already know about the period.
Peopled with interesting characters and with a plot that has enough red herrings to keep the reader guessing for most of the book, this is a wonderful read. Tricia includes many things from the society of our country in those perilous times.
My romantic heart really loved the last scene!!
I highly recommend this book.
March ACFW Book Releases
Wow! Look at all the releases this month from ACFW members.
1. A Distant Melody, Wings of Glory, Book One by Sarah Sundin An historical from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Allie is promised to a man she doesn't love, but a B-17 pilot captures her heart--will she honor her family's wishes or take a chance on love?
2. A Woman Called Sage by Diann Mills An historical from Zondervan. A woman bounty hunter fights bitterness and revenge to find the killers of her husband.
3. Beaded Hope by Cathy Liggett Women's fiction from Tyndale. A moving story about women helping women and lives changed across continents, inspired by a non-profit organization of the same name.
4. Beguiled by Deanne Gist and J. Mark Bertrand; A suspense/mystery/thriller from Bethany House. A dog-walker and a journalist pursue a thief (and each other) in atmospheric Charleston.
5. Cowboy Protector by Margaret Daley A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Love Inspired Suspense. When Hannah Williams comes to help Austin Taylor with his injured daughter, she draws him into an intrigue that threatens their relationship--and their lives.
6. Dead Reckoning by Ronie Kendig Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Abingdon. Trapped by a terrorist plot in Mumbai!.
7. Disarming Andi by Elizabeth Goddard A Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents. Contractor Andi Nielsen has another chance to discover what ís hidden inside the missile base she was hired to remodel. Is she prepared to detonate her feelings for the new owner?
8. Fatal Burn; Big Sky Secrets, Book 2 by Roxanne Rustand A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Love Inspired Suspense. In Montana's wide open spaces, danger and love are waiting....
9. Forget Me Not, Crossroads Crisis Center series, Book 1 by Vicki Hinze A Contemporary Romance from Waterbrook-Multnomah. Someone's robbed her of her identity and goes to great lengths to convince her she's someone else; someone who wants her dead.
10. Gold in the Fire/Light in the Storm by Margaret Daley A Romance from Love Inspired. Stories of love and loyalty
11. Groom in Training by Gail Gaymer Martin A Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired. Friends, Four-legged Friends and Love.
12. Kansas Courtship, After The Storm, No. 3 by Victoria Bylin An Historical Romance from Love Inspired. Dr. Nora Mitchell came to heal the town of High Plains. She stayed to heal Zeb Garrison's heart.
13. Katie's Redemption, The Brides of Amish Country by Patricia Davids A Romance from Love Inspired. A young woman returns to her Amish roots but can she find her way back to her faith.
14. Katy's New World, Katy Lambright Series by Kim Vogel Sawyer General Fiction from Zondervan. An Old Order Mennonite girl holds to her convictions while attending public high school.
15. Liberty's Promise by Amber Stockton An Historical Romance from Heartsong Presents. Feel the heartbeat of a chaotic new country through the lives of three Pennsylvania women who seek to know to whom they can entrust their hearts.
16. Love Finds You in Bridal Veil, Oregon by Miralee Ferrell A Romance from Summerside Press. A schoolteacher must choose between a man from her past and one who could be her future, while risking her reputation to rescue two runaway orphaned children.
17. Love Finds You in Homestead, Iowa by Melanie Dobson A Romance from Summerside Press. A widowed father and his young daughter find healing and hope in the communal Amana Colonies.
18. Morning's Refrain, Book 2 in Song of Alaska series by Tracie Peterson An Historical from Bethany House. Adventure and Romance in 1800's Sitka, Alaska.
19. Once in a Blue Moon by Leanna Ellis Women's Fiction from B&H Publishing. Faith is the first step to soaring.
20. Romance by the Book by Myra Johnson A Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents. A shy young woman's crush on her favorite romance author leads her to the man who will finally claim her heart.
21. Scattered Petals by Amanda Cabot An Historical from Revell. Tragedy broke her spirit -- will love mend her heart?
22. The Captain's Lady by Louise M. Gouge An Historical from Steeple Hill. Torn between love and duty, American Patriot James Templeton must deny his heart to help win his country's freedom.
23. The Easter Edition by Robin Shope A romance from White Rose. Bridal shop owner Carol Horn feels she will never find a love of her own until a new pastor comes to town, turning up by accident at her mother's funeral.
24. The Family Way by Michelle Levigne A romance from Desert Breeze Publishing. Pregnancy brings their shaky marriage to the breaking point, and Lisa and Todd must rediscover their love, their faith, and what true marriage means.
25. The Mockingbird's Call by Diane Ashby and Aaron McCarver A Romance from Barbour. Amelia Montgomery, torn between her family's traditions and her own convictions against slavery, must also choose between her duty and her heart as she works for the Underground Railroad.
26. The Promise of Morning, Book 2, At Home in Beldon Grove series by Ann Shorey An Historical from Revell. When loss drives them apart, can their faith bring them back together?
Happy Reading!
He wants to commune with you on a deeper level than ever before.
Announcements
I came back from a writers’ retreat to find that Misty Taggart of Trailers to the Stars had completed the book trailer for my next release. I love it. See if you do, too:
Also, I was privileged to be one of the contributing authors of Fiction and Truth.
Stories that Speak to the Soul.
When Jesus walked this earth, He taught most often by telling stories. We call them parables. Afterward, He explained to His listeners (or, in some cases, exclusively to His disciples) the parallels and meanings that could be derived from the story. Fiction and Truth follows this effective format. Christian authors tell engaging short stories with memorable characters in fascinating situations.
Following each story is a brief Author’s Application in which the writer suggests how the lessons of the stories can be applied to the reader s daily life.
Here’s a link where you can order it:
I only had four people sign my Guest Book on my web site in January. I chose two winners for the books. Liza Quisisem from Newark, California, and Erin Valentine from Bentonville, Arkansas. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/ . The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 16 free books a month on my blog: http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/. Most months we give away more than that. This month I am interviewing these authors:
DiAnn Mills – Sworn to Protect
Robin Caroll – Dead Air
Allie Pleiter – Easter Promises
Elizabeth Baker – How to Hang Loose in an Uptight World
Robin Shope – The Easter Edition
Louise Gouge – The Captain’s Lady
Rosey Dow – Homecoming
Athol Dickson – Lost Mission
Amber Miller – Liberty’s Promise
Lisa Wingate – Never Say Never
Kathy Howard – God’s Truth Revealed
Bonnie Leon – Touching the Clouds
Sarah Sundin – A Distant Melody
Gail Sattler – The Narrow Path
Sandra Bricker – The Big 5-OH
Amanda Cabot – Scattered Petals
Liz Babbs – Celtic Treasure
Jim Rubart – Rooms
Richard Mabry – Code Blue
Lisa Harris – Blood Ransom
Lesa Henderson – Someone to Trust
Sharlene MacLaren – Abbie Ann
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Another place you can find out what’s going on in Christian publishing today:
http://canblog.typepad.com/
I’ love for you to follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/lenandooley
Calendar of Events
March 2010 – Release of A Daughter’s Quest, Thorndike Press hard-back, large-print edition
April 10, 2010 – DFW Ready Writers, Colleyville, Texas, Utilizing the Internet
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 1, 2010 – Book Release Party, Mardel Christian Store, Hurst, Texas, 1-3 pm. Please join us for lots of fun.
May 15, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm), WoodsEdge Community Church– Two workshops Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
June 26, 2010 – ACFW local chapter – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level
September 17 – 20, 2010 – ACFW National Conference, Indianapolis, Indiana
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
Becoming Lucy
By Martha Rogers
ISBN 978-1-59979-912-4
Realms
Historical Christian Romance
Back Cover Copy:
Will Heiress LUCINDA BISHOP Learn the Meaning of TRUE LOVE and FORGIVENESS on the Oklahoma Plains?
In 1896, after her parents' deaths, seventeen-year-old heiress Lucinda Bishop is sent to Oklahoma to live with her aunt and uncle. But Oklahoma ranch life brings her more than she bargained for when she meets ranch hand Jake Starnes, a drifter who is running from his past. As her friendship with Jake grows, Lucinda faces emotions she's never before experienced.
As Jake learns more about God's love for him, he realizes he must face his past and the consequences of his actions, even if it means he will lose the one girl he loves. Will he be able to get his life together before someone else claims her hand. . .or even her life?
My Review:
I was privileged to read this book before it released and give an endorsement of it. Here's my endorsement:
"This book is a wonderful debut novel. A real winner. It has a variety of multidimensional characters, a realistic and well-defined setting, and a story that pulls the reader into the nineteenth century and doesn't let go until the last page. I can hardly wait for the next book in the series."
And to borrow the words of my friend Janice Hanna Thompson, "Highly recommended to all readers who are on a journey to 'becoming' all they are meant to be in Christ."
I second that recommendation.
Code Blue
By Richard L. Mabry, MD
ISBN 978-1-426-70236-5
Abingdon Press
Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Back Cover Copy:
Who wants Dr. Cathy Sewell dead?
For Dr. Cathy Sewell, CODE BLUE means more than just the cardiac emergencies she faces--it's the state of her life when the return to her hometown doesn't bring the peace she so desperately needs.
The town doctors resent the fact that she's not only a newcomer but also a woman, and the devastating results from one of her prescriptions may mean the end of her practice.
As two men compete for her affection, an enemy wants her out of town--or possibly even dead.
My Review:
I love this debut novel. Dr. Mabry created medical scenes that were technical enough to be authentic, but still understandable by laymen readers. And the suspense in the story took a lot of twists and turns, with plenty of red herrings to throw the reader off the right track. I love suspense stories like that, with twist endings.
I fell in love with the characters, even many of the secondary ones. Altogether a satisfying read.
The Sheriff’s Surrender
By Susan Page Davis
ISBN 978-1-60260-562-6
Barbour
Historical Christian Romance
Ladies' Shooting Club, Book 1
Back Cover Copy:
A Murder in Fergus, Idaho, had the Townswomen Scared
Gert Dooley can shoot the tail feathers off a jay at a hundred yards from years of test-firing the guns her brother repairs. But long after giving up on marriage, she yearns for rancher Ethan Chapman to see she's more than a crack shot with a firearm. When murder strikes in the sleepy town, Gert forms the Ladies' Shooting Club to teach the women how to protect themselves, their families, and their businesses.
Ethan Chapman didn't ask to be named sheriff, but he acceptes the position and takes on the investigation into the mysterious death of his predecessor. Now he's between a rock and a hard place--being pressured by the townswomen to restore order and safety to Fergus, and by the men who insist Ethan disband the upstart Ladies' Shooting Club.
When another person is murdered, Ethan must turn to Gert and her ladies to help in the investigation. But will Ethan, Gert, and the Ladies' Shooting Club find the murderer before he strikes again.
My Review:
Susan Page Davis is an author like me. One who writes in several genres. And she does each one very well. She grounded the readers in the setting right away and pulled them into the lives of the well-defined characters. With a believable plot that has a mystery attached to it, she weaves a tale that keeps readers turning pages.
I love historical novels. I love mysteries. And I love this book that combines the two. You won't want to miss this wonderful read.
Sons of Thunder
By Susan May Warren
ISBN 978-1-935416-67-8
Summerside Press
Nostalgic Romantic Suspense
The Brothers of Arms Collection
Back Cover Copy:
Two Brothers Love Her--But Only One Can Have Her Heart.
Sofia Frangos is torn between the love of hot-headed, passionate Markos and his younger brother, quiet, intelligent Dino. Markos longs to honor his family, Dino wants to forget the tragedy that drove them from their Greek home to the shores of America. One brother offers the past she loves. the other, a future. Which "Son of Thunder" will she choose? From Chicago's sultry jazz-era clubs. . .to Europe's World War II battlefields. . .to a final showdown on a Greek Island, the SONS OF THUNDER discover betrayal, sacrifice--and finally. . .redemption.
My Review:
I've loved every Susan May Warren book I've ever read. SONS OF THUNDER is probably her best so far. Her word choices evoke deep emotions and even physical sensations in the reader. In some ways stark, but in others lyrical. And the pictures of the places are vivid. This book touches on the human condition in adverse situations, revealing just how far our choices can take us from God. But it also reveals the great love of a merciful God, who is always ready to forgive and redeem.
This is one of the first two books in the new Summerside Press Nostalgic Romantic Suspense line. If all the books live up to this one, they will be must-reads for lovers of romance or suspense.
Songbird Under a German Moon
By Tricia Goyer
ISBN 978-1-935416-68-5
Summerside Press
Nostalgic (Historical) Romantic Suspense
Back Cover Copy:
DATELINE: 1945. THE WAR IS OVER.
And USO singer Betty Lake travels to post-Hitler Germany to entertain occupying U.S. troops. Her first performance is a hit, and she's enthralled by the applause...by her quarters in a former Nazi-held mansion...and by the attention of Frank Witt, a dashing U.S. Army Air Corps combat photographer. Yet this songbird gets her feathers ruffled when her roommate, Kat, goes missing under syspicion of foul play. Is Betty a target, too?
Betty and Frank team up against post-war grudges, and together, the lovebirds seek answers. But will they have a chance for their romance to sing? The truth is revealed under a German Moon.
My Review:
I'm loving these new Summerside Press romantic suspense novels. I reveiwed Susan May Warren's first. Now with Tricia Goyer's, the story is a somewhat softer suspense, but equally as interesting. And the spiritual thread is a little stronger.
My aunt was a U.S. Army nurse in Germany at this time, and she's shared a lot of things with me. This book dovetails with what I already know about the period.
Peopled with interesting characters and with a plot that has enough red herrings to keep the reader guessing for most of the book, this is a wonderful read. Tricia includes many things from the society of our country in those perilous times.
My romantic heart really loved the last scene!!
I highly recommend this book.
March ACFW Book Releases
Wow! Look at all the releases this month from ACFW members.
1. A Distant Melody, Wings of Glory, Book One by Sarah Sundin An historical from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Allie is promised to a man she doesn't love, but a B-17 pilot captures her heart--will she honor her family's wishes or take a chance on love?
2. A Woman Called Sage by Diann Mills An historical from Zondervan. A woman bounty hunter fights bitterness and revenge to find the killers of her husband.
3. Beaded Hope by Cathy Liggett Women's fiction from Tyndale. A moving story about women helping women and lives changed across continents, inspired by a non-profit organization of the same name.
4. Beguiled by Deanne Gist and J. Mark Bertrand; A suspense/mystery/thriller from Bethany House. A dog-walker and a journalist pursue a thief (and each other) in atmospheric Charleston.
5. Cowboy Protector by Margaret Daley A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Love Inspired Suspense. When Hannah Williams comes to help Austin Taylor with his injured daughter, she draws him into an intrigue that threatens their relationship--and their lives.
6. Dead Reckoning by Ronie Kendig Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Abingdon. Trapped by a terrorist plot in Mumbai!.
7. Disarming Andi by Elizabeth Goddard A Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents. Contractor Andi Nielsen has another chance to discover what ís hidden inside the missile base she was hired to remodel. Is she prepared to detonate her feelings for the new owner?
8. Fatal Burn; Big Sky Secrets, Book 2 by Roxanne Rustand A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Love Inspired Suspense. In Montana's wide open spaces, danger and love are waiting....
9. Forget Me Not, Crossroads Crisis Center series, Book 1 by Vicki Hinze A Contemporary Romance from Waterbrook-Multnomah. Someone's robbed her of her identity and goes to great lengths to convince her she's someone else; someone who wants her dead.
10. Gold in the Fire/Light in the Storm by Margaret Daley A Romance from Love Inspired. Stories of love and loyalty
11. Groom in Training by Gail Gaymer Martin A Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired. Friends, Four-legged Friends and Love.
12. Kansas Courtship, After The Storm, No. 3 by Victoria Bylin An Historical Romance from Love Inspired. Dr. Nora Mitchell came to heal the town of High Plains. She stayed to heal Zeb Garrison's heart.
13. Katie's Redemption, The Brides of Amish Country by Patricia Davids A Romance from Love Inspired. A young woman returns to her Amish roots but can she find her way back to her faith.
14. Katy's New World, Katy Lambright Series by Kim Vogel Sawyer General Fiction from Zondervan. An Old Order Mennonite girl holds to her convictions while attending public high school.
15. Liberty's Promise by Amber Stockton An Historical Romance from Heartsong Presents. Feel the heartbeat of a chaotic new country through the lives of three Pennsylvania women who seek to know to whom they can entrust their hearts.
16. Love Finds You in Bridal Veil, Oregon by Miralee Ferrell A Romance from Summerside Press. A schoolteacher must choose between a man from her past and one who could be her future, while risking her reputation to rescue two runaway orphaned children.
17. Love Finds You in Homestead, Iowa by Melanie Dobson A Romance from Summerside Press. A widowed father and his young daughter find healing and hope in the communal Amana Colonies.
18. Morning's Refrain, Book 2 in Song of Alaska series by Tracie Peterson An Historical from Bethany House. Adventure and Romance in 1800's Sitka, Alaska.
19. Once in a Blue Moon by Leanna Ellis Women's Fiction from B&H Publishing. Faith is the first step to soaring.
20. Romance by the Book by Myra Johnson A Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents. A shy young woman's crush on her favorite romance author leads her to the man who will finally claim her heart.
21. Scattered Petals by Amanda Cabot An Historical from Revell. Tragedy broke her spirit -- will love mend her heart?
22. The Captain's Lady by Louise M. Gouge An Historical from Steeple Hill. Torn between love and duty, American Patriot James Templeton must deny his heart to help win his country's freedom.
23. The Easter Edition by Robin Shope A romance from White Rose. Bridal shop owner Carol Horn feels she will never find a love of her own until a new pastor comes to town, turning up by accident at her mother's funeral.
24. The Family Way by Michelle Levigne A romance from Desert Breeze Publishing. Pregnancy brings their shaky marriage to the breaking point, and Lisa and Todd must rediscover their love, their faith, and what true marriage means.
25. The Mockingbird's Call by Diane Ashby and Aaron McCarver A Romance from Barbour. Amelia Montgomery, torn between her family's traditions and her own convictions against slavery, must also choose between her duty and her heart as she works for the Underground Railroad.
26. The Promise of Morning, Book 2, At Home in Beldon Grove series by Ann Shorey An Historical from Revell. When loss drives them apart, can their faith bring them back together?
Happy Reading!
Monday, February 1, 2010
February - 2010
Welcome to my newsletter. Enjoy winning books, keeping up with my schedule, reading reviews of the books I've read, and a listing of the new releases by American Christian Fiction Writers members.
Breakthrough Already
God is faithful to perform what He promises. See the Musings section at the bottom of the newsletter to learn what has happened so far.
Announcements
Three book winners for January are: Mary Preston, Toowoomba Qld, Australia - Nancye Davis, Louisville, Kentucky – Kellie Demarsh, Stirling Ontario, Canada. You can choose either Pirate’s Prize, Never Say Never, or A Daughter’s Quest. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/ . The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 16 free books a month on my blog: http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/ . Most months we give away more than that. This month I am interviewing these authors:
Judy Miller – Somewhere to Belong
Robin Caroll – Deliver Us From Evil
Betsy St Amant – A Valentine’s Wish
Cerella D Seachrist – Love Finds You in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Miralee Feerrell – Love Finds You in Bridal Veil, Oregon
Tricia Goyer – Songbird Under a German Moon
Virginia Smith – Third Time’s Charm
Mary Hawkins – Outback From Baragula
Christa Allen – Walking on Broken Glass
Terri Kraus – Transformation
Lori Copeland – A Kiss for Cade
Kerry Nietz – A Star Curiously Singing
Susan May Warren – Double Trouble
Vanissa Miller – Forsaken
Stephen Bly – Creede of Montana
Ronie Kendig – Dead Reckoning
K M Weiland – Behold the Dawn
Jen Stephens – The Heart’s Journey Home
Hillary Manton Lodge – Plain Jayne
Jerry Eicher – Rebecca’s Choice
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Another place you can find out what’s going on in Christian publishing today:
http://canblog.typepad.com/
I’d love for you to follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/lenandooley
My author interview blog, http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/ , was given the Sugar Doll award by Abi Buening. I’m supposed to tell 10 things about myself, but since that blog is only used for author interviews, I’ll post those things here:
1. I live in Texas.
2. I’ve been married over 45 years.
3. I’ve traveled in several foreign countries – Mexico, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Guatemala.
4. I knit and crochet while James and I watch TV.
5. I designed a pattern and make all my slacks.
6. I like to sing and own way over 100 Christian CDs.
7. I collect Christian Christmas CDs, too.
8. I have 4 grandchildren.
9. I have 1 great grandchild.
10. I have a cooler smart phone than my daughters or granddaughters have.
In March, I will start teaching online writing classes. You can sign up for the first class at this site: http://www.wiesworkshops.com/ . If my class isn’t listed when you check, please check back. It will be going up soon. My first class will be “Taking Settings to the Next Level.”
Calendar of Events
February 21-25, 2010 – Writer’s Retreat, Round Top, Texas
March 2010 – Release of A Daughter’s Quest, Thorndike Press hard-back, large-print edition
March 2010 - www.WIESworkshops.com – Taking Settings to the Next Level
April 10, 2010 – DFW Ready Writers, Colleyville, Texas, Utilizing the Internet
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 1, 2010 – Book Release Party, Mardel Christian Store, Hurst, Texas - 1-3 pm. Join us for the fun!!
May 8, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm) – Two workshops Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
June 26, 2010 – ACFW local chapter – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level
September 17 – 20, 2010 – ACFW National Conference, Indianapolis, Indiana
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
Ruby Among Us
By Tina Ann Forkner
ISBN 978-1-4000-7458-0
Waterbrook
Contemporary Women's Fiction
Back Cover Copy:
Sometimes the key that unlocks your future lies in someone else's past.
Lucy DiCamillo is safely surrounded by her books, music, and art--but none of these reclusive comforts or even the protective efforts of her grandmother, Kitty, can shield her thoughts from the mother she can barely recall. Lucy senses her grandmother holds the key, but Kitty seems as eager to hide the past as Lycy is eager to find it.
From the streets of San Francisco and Sacramento to the lush vineyards of the Sonoma Valley, Lucy follows the thread of memory in search of a heritage that seems long-buried with her mother, Ruby.
What she finds is as enigmatic and stirring as it is startling in this redemptive tale about the power of faith and mother-daughter love.
My Review:
I loved the depth of the characters gradually revealed in this book, like a rose's petals slowly unfolding to the sunlight. The characters are almost larger than life, but their misunderstandings and hurts are universal.
When I finished reading this book, I saw many parallels with one of the most familiar of our Lord's parables. You'll really want to read it.
Emmy’s Equal
By Marcia Gruver
ISBN 978-1-60260-207-6
Barbour
Historical Romance
Texas Fortunes - Book 3
Back Cover Copy:
A Strong-willed City Girl Meets Her Match in a Stubborn Vaquero
Emmy Dane's recent decision to trust God with her life has yet to rub off on her stubborn spirit. When her family decides to travel to South Texas to research ranching and demand that Emmy join them, she vows to hate every minute of it.
In Carrizo Springs, Texas, cowboy and ranch foreman Diego Marcelo's Choctaw mama tells him about her dream that God will soon deliver Diego from his loneliness. Diego assures her he has no need of deliverance and likes things the way they are. . .but grows jealous over the seeming attraction between Emmy and his boss's son. So why is his mother adamant that Emmy is not the one from her dreams?
When Emmy's family and Diego's boss are overdue returning from a cattle drive, Emmy insists on accompanying Diego's search party. Diego refuses, but finds Emmy's stubbornness a match for his own.
Faced with a stampede and a wildfire, will Emmy and Diego be able to surrender their wills and recognize true love before it's too late?
My Review:
I have loved Marcia's writing since I read the first page of DIAMOND DUO, the first book in this series. EMMY'S EQUAL is a fit ending of the series. With strong character development, Marcia takes the reader deep into the hearts, revealing strengths and weaknesses, making the reader really care about what happens to the people.
And her plot twists constantly surprise the reader.
Add to that the fact that she created a setting where the reader can see, hear, feel, taste, and experience the Texas frontier. I found this an excellent read that you won't want to miss.
It’s NOT About HIM
By Michelle Sutton
ISBN 978-00-979-74857-8
Sheaf House
Contemporary Romance
Second Glances, book 2
A note on the back states: Due to mature content, recommended for mature teens and young adults.
Back Cover Copy:
Susie passed out while drinking at Jeff's party and later discovered she's pregnant. She has no idea who the father is and considers having an abortion, but instead decides to place her baby for adoption. Following through ends up being more wrenching than she imagined, but she's determined to do the right thing for her baby.
Jeff feels guilty that Suzie was taken advantage of at his party and offers to marry her so she won't have to give up her baby, like his birth mother did with him. But Susie refuses, insisting he should marry someone he loves. Can he convince her that his love is genuine before it's too late? Can she make him understand that it's not about him--it's about what's best for her child.
My Review:
I do agree with the statement on the back of the cover that it's for mature teens and young adults. Some of the scenes, although not completely graphic, are too graphic for young teens.
That being said, this is a powerful look at two young people who made a lot of mistakes before they became Christians. It clearly shows the struggles when the consequences of those mistakes spill over into their new Christian walk.
Realistic situations handled with finesse by the author reveal that Jesus is always the answer, even on the darkest days. I also loved watching the developing romance by two people who've had a hard time knowing what real love is.
I highly recommend this wonderful book.
The Husband Tree
By Mary Connealy
ISBN 978-1-60260-143-7
Barbour
Historical Romance
Montana Marriages, book 2
Back Cover Copy:
No More Husbands for Belle!
Standing over her third no-account husband's grave, Belle Tanner makes a vow--no more men. Now all she needs to do is get her cattle to market before winter sets in. But there's no one around except the drifter Silas Harden, and Belle is such a poor judge of men that she can't decide if he is worth hiring on.
Silas just escaped a shotgun wedding--only to lose his money, his ranch, and his pride. Although he's determined never to get tangled up with women folk again, Belle and her four daughters seem to bring out the protector in him. And he can't seem to stop kissing Belle senseless.
When a group cowpokes, along with a white woman raised by the Shoshone, show up along the drive, Belle has her hands full. Can she keep her oldest daughter and Glowing Sun away from no-good cowhands--and herself out of Silas's arms?
Will anyone get through this treacherous cattle drive unscathed and unhitched?
My Review:
When Mary Connealy burst on the Christian fiction scene, she brought a unique, quirky voice. Her books are funny, poignant, and enjoyable. This one is no exception. Actually, I believer THE HUSBAND TREE is my favorite of all her books.
With more romantic tension than usual, I loved the growing relationship between Belle and Silas. Their character development was fun to read. And I loved the daughters.
Also, I can't wait to read the next book, WILDFLOWER BRIDE, which is Wade and Glowing Sun's story.
You won't want to miss THE HUSBAND TREE. Pick it up today.
Thin Places
By Mary E. DeMuth
ISBN 978-0-310-28418-5
Zondervan
Nonfiction - Memoir
Back Cover Copy:
What if you could retrace your life and discover its thin places--places where the division between this world and the eternal fades?
"Thin places are snatches of holy ground, tucked into the corners of our world, where we might just catch a glimpse of eternity. They are aha moments, the beautiful realizations."
In her moving spiritual memoir, Mary DeMuth traces the winding path of thin places in her life, places where she experienced longing and healing more intensely than before. Mary's story invites you to a deeper understanding of your own story. She calls you to discover new ways to look for God in the past so that you might experience him more profoundly in the present. . .A God ready to break through any ordinary day or extraordinary pain and offer you a glimpse of eternity.
My Review:
I don't read a lot of nonfiction. I can hardly keep up with the fiction I need to read to do reviews, but I wanted to read this memoir. With achingly beautiful words, Mary takes us into dark places of pain and into gloriously-lit places where she meets a loving Savior who dances with her.
I'd often heard that writing is like opening a vein and letting the words bleed from you. With Mary's transparency in this book, many of the words felt as though her life-blood wrote them. Then she anoints them with the blood of Jesus and takes away the pain.
She doesn't, however, gloss over the bad times. Instead, she tells about them with passionate words that reveal her deep hurt, but always lead back to Jesus.
I'm blessed to know Mary personally, but this book gave me an even more in-depth understanding of her as a child, a wife, a mother, and an author. I highly recommend THIN PLACES for all who have any kind of pain in their lives. Her journey will help you move beyond the hurt into the loving arms of Jesus. Her insightful book took me to some of my hidden places, too.
February ACFW Book Releases
Eleven releases this month from ACFW members.
Congrats to all!
1. Abigail: A Novel, The Wives of King David, Book 2, by Jill Eileen Smith from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Turmoil marks her life - what price will she pay for love?
2. A Valentine Wish, by Betsy St. Amant from Steeple Hill Lori, chocolate-lover extraordinary, is unemployed, single, and out of brownie mix. But when a secret admirer pops up at her new job running a chocolate boutique, she might have the ingredients for a special Valentine's after all!
3. Deliver Us From Evil, by Robin Caroll from B&H Publishing. When a female helicopter rescues a US Marshal escorting a heart, they must race against time to uncover the largest child trafficking ring in history.
4. Hometown Promise; First in the Kellerville Series, by Merrillee Whren from Steeple Hill. Kellerville: Finding family, community and love in one small town
5. Love's Winding Path, by Lauralee Bliss from Heartsong Presents, Barbour Publishing. A prodigal's life is never out of God's reach and His love as two lonely adventurers are about to discover.
6. The Marriage Masquerade, by Erica Vetsch from Heartsong Presents, Barbour Publishing. Sometimes running away brings you right back where you started.
7. Meander Scar, by Lisa Lickel from Black Lion. When Ann is ready to jump back into life with a new love, she discovers the devastating truth behind her husband's disappearance.
8. My Deadly Valentine, by Lynette Eason and Valerie Hansen from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Two suspense filled stories about stalkers and the men determined to protect the women they love.
9. On Wings of Love, by Kim Watters from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. A dedicated nurse devotes her life helping others, only to discover the man who steals her heart doesn't want her help..
10. The Pastor's Wife, by Jennifer AlLee from Abingdon Press. A woman must face the husband - and the congregation - she ran from six years earlier.
11. Walking on Broken Glass, by Christa Allen from Abingdon Press. Leah Thornton stops numbing her pain with alcohol, but discovers the road to redemption might still be under construction.
Happy Reading!
Musings
Breakthroughs. . .wait. . .victory. 2010 is a wonderful year already.
I really felt that God was saying there would be a real breakthrough in James recovery from his terrible infection that almost killed him last year. It’s been slow going, with him gradually gaining strength and mental agility.
In the last two weeks, his spark has returned. Even our daughter could hear it when she talked to him on the phone. It’s like I have my husband back. He’s been here, but the essence of who he is was missing. I praise God for giving him back to me.
Breakthrough Already
God is faithful to perform what He promises. See the Musings section at the bottom of the newsletter to learn what has happened so far.
Announcements
Three book winners for January are: Mary Preston, Toowoomba Qld, Australia - Nancye Davis, Louisville, Kentucky – Kellie Demarsh, Stirling Ontario, Canada. You can choose either Pirate’s Prize, Never Say Never, or A Daughter’s Quest. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/ . The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 16 free books a month on my blog: http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/ . Most months we give away more than that. This month I am interviewing these authors:
Judy Miller – Somewhere to Belong
Robin Caroll – Deliver Us From Evil
Betsy St Amant – A Valentine’s Wish
Cerella D Seachrist – Love Finds You in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Miralee Feerrell – Love Finds You in Bridal Veil, Oregon
Tricia Goyer – Songbird Under a German Moon
Virginia Smith – Third Time’s Charm
Mary Hawkins – Outback From Baragula
Christa Allen – Walking on Broken Glass
Terri Kraus – Transformation
Lori Copeland – A Kiss for Cade
Kerry Nietz – A Star Curiously Singing
Susan May Warren – Double Trouble
Vanissa Miller – Forsaken
Stephen Bly – Creede of Montana
Ronie Kendig – Dead Reckoning
K M Weiland – Behold the Dawn
Jen Stephens – The Heart’s Journey Home
Hillary Manton Lodge – Plain Jayne
Jerry Eicher – Rebecca’s Choice
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Another place you can find out what’s going on in Christian publishing today:
http://canblog.typepad.com/
I’d love for you to follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/lenandooley
My author interview blog, http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/ , was given the Sugar Doll award by Abi Buening. I’m supposed to tell 10 things about myself, but since that blog is only used for author interviews, I’ll post those things here:
1. I live in Texas.
2. I’ve been married over 45 years.
3. I’ve traveled in several foreign countries – Mexico, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Guatemala.
4. I knit and crochet while James and I watch TV.
5. I designed a pattern and make all my slacks.
6. I like to sing and own way over 100 Christian CDs.
7. I collect Christian Christmas CDs, too.
8. I have 4 grandchildren.
9. I have 1 great grandchild.
10. I have a cooler smart phone than my daughters or granddaughters have.
In March, I will start teaching online writing classes. You can sign up for the first class at this site: http://www.wiesworkshops.com/ . If my class isn’t listed when you check, please check back. It will be going up soon. My first class will be “Taking Settings to the Next Level.”
Calendar of Events
February 21-25, 2010 – Writer’s Retreat, Round Top, Texas
March 2010 – Release of A Daughter’s Quest, Thorndike Press hard-back, large-print edition
March 2010 - www.WIESworkshops.com – Taking Settings to the Next Level
April 10, 2010 – DFW Ready Writers, Colleyville, Texas, Utilizing the Internet
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 1, 2010 – Book Release Party, Mardel Christian Store, Hurst, Texas - 1-3 pm. Join us for the fun!!
May 8, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm) – Two workshops Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
June 26, 2010 – ACFW local chapter – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level
September 17 – 20, 2010 – ACFW National Conference, Indianapolis, Indiana
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
Ruby Among Us
By Tina Ann Forkner
ISBN 978-1-4000-7458-0
Waterbrook
Contemporary Women's Fiction
Back Cover Copy:
Sometimes the key that unlocks your future lies in someone else's past.
Lucy DiCamillo is safely surrounded by her books, music, and art--but none of these reclusive comforts or even the protective efforts of her grandmother, Kitty, can shield her thoughts from the mother she can barely recall. Lucy senses her grandmother holds the key, but Kitty seems as eager to hide the past as Lycy is eager to find it.
From the streets of San Francisco and Sacramento to the lush vineyards of the Sonoma Valley, Lucy follows the thread of memory in search of a heritage that seems long-buried with her mother, Ruby.
What she finds is as enigmatic and stirring as it is startling in this redemptive tale about the power of faith and mother-daughter love.
My Review:
I loved the depth of the characters gradually revealed in this book, like a rose's petals slowly unfolding to the sunlight. The characters are almost larger than life, but their misunderstandings and hurts are universal.
When I finished reading this book, I saw many parallels with one of the most familiar of our Lord's parables. You'll really want to read it.
Emmy’s Equal
By Marcia Gruver
ISBN 978-1-60260-207-6
Barbour
Historical Romance
Texas Fortunes - Book 3
Back Cover Copy:
A Strong-willed City Girl Meets Her Match in a Stubborn Vaquero
Emmy Dane's recent decision to trust God with her life has yet to rub off on her stubborn spirit. When her family decides to travel to South Texas to research ranching and demand that Emmy join them, she vows to hate every minute of it.
In Carrizo Springs, Texas, cowboy and ranch foreman Diego Marcelo's Choctaw mama tells him about her dream that God will soon deliver Diego from his loneliness. Diego assures her he has no need of deliverance and likes things the way they are. . .but grows jealous over the seeming attraction between Emmy and his boss's son. So why is his mother adamant that Emmy is not the one from her dreams?
When Emmy's family and Diego's boss are overdue returning from a cattle drive, Emmy insists on accompanying Diego's search party. Diego refuses, but finds Emmy's stubbornness a match for his own.
Faced with a stampede and a wildfire, will Emmy and Diego be able to surrender their wills and recognize true love before it's too late?
My Review:
I have loved Marcia's writing since I read the first page of DIAMOND DUO, the first book in this series. EMMY'S EQUAL is a fit ending of the series. With strong character development, Marcia takes the reader deep into the hearts, revealing strengths and weaknesses, making the reader really care about what happens to the people.
And her plot twists constantly surprise the reader.
Add to that the fact that she created a setting where the reader can see, hear, feel, taste, and experience the Texas frontier. I found this an excellent read that you won't want to miss.
It’s NOT About HIM
By Michelle Sutton
ISBN 978-00-979-74857-8
Sheaf House
Contemporary Romance
Second Glances, book 2
A note on the back states: Due to mature content, recommended for mature teens and young adults.
Back Cover Copy:
Susie passed out while drinking at Jeff's party and later discovered she's pregnant. She has no idea who the father is and considers having an abortion, but instead decides to place her baby for adoption. Following through ends up being more wrenching than she imagined, but she's determined to do the right thing for her baby.
Jeff feels guilty that Suzie was taken advantage of at his party and offers to marry her so she won't have to give up her baby, like his birth mother did with him. But Susie refuses, insisting he should marry someone he loves. Can he convince her that his love is genuine before it's too late? Can she make him understand that it's not about him--it's about what's best for her child.
My Review:
I do agree with the statement on the back of the cover that it's for mature teens and young adults. Some of the scenes, although not completely graphic, are too graphic for young teens.
That being said, this is a powerful look at two young people who made a lot of mistakes before they became Christians. It clearly shows the struggles when the consequences of those mistakes spill over into their new Christian walk.
Realistic situations handled with finesse by the author reveal that Jesus is always the answer, even on the darkest days. I also loved watching the developing romance by two people who've had a hard time knowing what real love is.
I highly recommend this wonderful book.
The Husband Tree
By Mary Connealy
ISBN 978-1-60260-143-7
Barbour
Historical Romance
Montana Marriages, book 2
Back Cover Copy:
No More Husbands for Belle!
Standing over her third no-account husband's grave, Belle Tanner makes a vow--no more men. Now all she needs to do is get her cattle to market before winter sets in. But there's no one around except the drifter Silas Harden, and Belle is such a poor judge of men that she can't decide if he is worth hiring on.
Silas just escaped a shotgun wedding--only to lose his money, his ranch, and his pride. Although he's determined never to get tangled up with women folk again, Belle and her four daughters seem to bring out the protector in him. And he can't seem to stop kissing Belle senseless.
When a group cowpokes, along with a white woman raised by the Shoshone, show up along the drive, Belle has her hands full. Can she keep her oldest daughter and Glowing Sun away from no-good cowhands--and herself out of Silas's arms?
Will anyone get through this treacherous cattle drive unscathed and unhitched?
My Review:
When Mary Connealy burst on the Christian fiction scene, she brought a unique, quirky voice. Her books are funny, poignant, and enjoyable. This one is no exception. Actually, I believer THE HUSBAND TREE is my favorite of all her books.
With more romantic tension than usual, I loved the growing relationship between Belle and Silas. Their character development was fun to read. And I loved the daughters.
Also, I can't wait to read the next book, WILDFLOWER BRIDE, which is Wade and Glowing Sun's story.
You won't want to miss THE HUSBAND TREE. Pick it up today.
Thin Places
By Mary E. DeMuth
ISBN 978-0-310-28418-5
Zondervan
Nonfiction - Memoir
Back Cover Copy:
What if you could retrace your life and discover its thin places--places where the division between this world and the eternal fades?
"Thin places are snatches of holy ground, tucked into the corners of our world, where we might just catch a glimpse of eternity. They are aha moments, the beautiful realizations."
In her moving spiritual memoir, Mary DeMuth traces the winding path of thin places in her life, places where she experienced longing and healing more intensely than before. Mary's story invites you to a deeper understanding of your own story. She calls you to discover new ways to look for God in the past so that you might experience him more profoundly in the present. . .A God ready to break through any ordinary day or extraordinary pain and offer you a glimpse of eternity.
My Review:
I don't read a lot of nonfiction. I can hardly keep up with the fiction I need to read to do reviews, but I wanted to read this memoir. With achingly beautiful words, Mary takes us into dark places of pain and into gloriously-lit places where she meets a loving Savior who dances with her.
I'd often heard that writing is like opening a vein and letting the words bleed from you. With Mary's transparency in this book, many of the words felt as though her life-blood wrote them. Then she anoints them with the blood of Jesus and takes away the pain.
She doesn't, however, gloss over the bad times. Instead, she tells about them with passionate words that reveal her deep hurt, but always lead back to Jesus.
I'm blessed to know Mary personally, but this book gave me an even more in-depth understanding of her as a child, a wife, a mother, and an author. I highly recommend THIN PLACES for all who have any kind of pain in their lives. Her journey will help you move beyond the hurt into the loving arms of Jesus. Her insightful book took me to some of my hidden places, too.
February ACFW Book Releases
Eleven releases this month from ACFW members.
Congrats to all!
1. Abigail: A Novel, The Wives of King David, Book 2, by Jill Eileen Smith from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Turmoil marks her life - what price will she pay for love?
2. A Valentine Wish, by Betsy St. Amant from Steeple Hill Lori, chocolate-lover extraordinary, is unemployed, single, and out of brownie mix. But when a secret admirer pops up at her new job running a chocolate boutique, she might have the ingredients for a special Valentine's after all!
3. Deliver Us From Evil, by Robin Caroll from B&H Publishing. When a female helicopter rescues a US Marshal escorting a heart, they must race against time to uncover the largest child trafficking ring in history.
4. Hometown Promise; First in the Kellerville Series, by Merrillee Whren from Steeple Hill. Kellerville: Finding family, community and love in one small town
5. Love's Winding Path, by Lauralee Bliss from Heartsong Presents, Barbour Publishing. A prodigal's life is never out of God's reach and His love as two lonely adventurers are about to discover.
6. The Marriage Masquerade, by Erica Vetsch from Heartsong Presents, Barbour Publishing. Sometimes running away brings you right back where you started.
7. Meander Scar, by Lisa Lickel from Black Lion. When Ann is ready to jump back into life with a new love, she discovers the devastating truth behind her husband's disappearance.
8. My Deadly Valentine, by Lynette Eason and Valerie Hansen from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Two suspense filled stories about stalkers and the men determined to protect the women they love.
9. On Wings of Love, by Kim Watters from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. A dedicated nurse devotes her life helping others, only to discover the man who steals her heart doesn't want her help..
10. The Pastor's Wife, by Jennifer AlLee from Abingdon Press. A woman must face the husband - and the congregation - she ran from six years earlier.
11. Walking on Broken Glass, by Christa Allen from Abingdon Press. Leah Thornton stops numbing her pain with alcohol, but discovers the road to redemption might still be under construction.
Happy Reading!
Musings
Breakthroughs. . .wait. . .victory. 2010 is a wonderful year already.
I really felt that God was saying there would be a real breakthrough in James recovery from his terrible infection that almost killed him last year. It’s been slow going, with him gradually gaining strength and mental agility.
In the last two weeks, his spark has returned. Even our daughter could hear it when she talked to him on the phone. It’s like I have my husband back. He’s been here, but the essence of who he is was missing. I praise God for giving him back to me.
Friday, January 1, 2010
January 2010
Breakthrough
Every year, my friend Rita Booth and I both ask God for a word for the year. This is the word He gave me for me. Rita’s word is Wait. Then at the New Year’s Eve prayer meeting at Gateway Church, Pastor Robert said the word for Gateway this year is Victory. That sounds a lot like breakthrough to me.
Announcements
Three book winners for December are: Nancy Jackson – Southlake, Texas, Abi Buening – Grand Forks, North Dakota, and Kim Boldt, Gravett, Arkansas. You can choose either Wild Prairie Roses or Cranberry Hearts. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/ . The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox. I will only post a newsletter once a month.
And introduce your friends to my newsletter. They might be interested in winning free books and reading book reviews.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 16 free books a month on my blog: http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/ . Most months we give away more than that. This month I’ll be interviewing these authors:
Sharlene MacLaren – Maggie Rose
Kaye Dacus – A Case for Love
Roxanne Rustand – Fatal Burn
Martha Rogers – Becoming Lucy
C. J. Darlington – Thicker Than Blood
Lisa Harris – Colorado Crimes
Jennifer AlLee – The Pastor’s Wife
Kelly Irvin – A Deadly Wilderness
Shanna Groves – Lip Reader
M. L. Tyndall – The Raven Saint
Susan Page Davis and Megan Davis – Mainely Mysteries
Linore Rose Burkard – The Country House Courtship
Deborah Raney – Beneath a Southern Sky
Kathie Fitzpatrick – Angel Promises
Janet Dean – The Substitute Bride
Mary Connealy – The Husband Tree
Susan May Warren – Sons of Thunder
Rachel Hauck – The Sweet By and By
Mary DeMuth – Thin Places
Betsy St. Amant – A Valentine’s Wish
That's a real smorgasbord of books to fit all kinds of reading tastes.
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Another place you can find out what’s going on in Christian publishing today:
http://canblog.typepad.com/
I’ love for you to follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/lenandooley
Calendar of Events
February 21-25, 2010 – Writer’s Retreat, Round Top, Texas
April 10, 2010 – DFW Ready Writers, Colleyville, Texas - Utilizing the Internet
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 2010 – Book Release Party, Mardel Christian Store, Hurst, Texas
May 8, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm) – Two workshops - Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
June 26, 2010 – ACFW local chapter – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma - Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
September 17 – 20, 2010 – ACFW National Conference, Indianapolis, Indiana
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
A Blue and Gray Christmas
By Vickie McDonough, Lauralee Bliss, Tamela Hancock Murray, Carrie Turansky
ISBN 978-1-60260-565-7
Barbour
Historical Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
Christmas Love Captures Hearts During the Civil War
Despite the Blue and Gray troops advancing on their hometown of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Leah Woods and Seth Madison vow to wed at the dawn of the New Year. But when Seth disappears, Leah is left alone, clinging to whatever faith she can muster.
On Christmas Day, Arabella Lambert accepts Barry Birch's proposal of marriage. But as Barry's pacifist leanings come to light, he's labeled a coward. Is their love strong enough to stand against public ridicule?
Rachel Thornton nurses the wounded James Galloway back to health, only to see him determined to head back to the front lines. Can Rachel risk falling for James? Or would her heart be better off in the hands of another man?
After the loss of her Confederate home and husband, Hannah McIntosh found refuge at the Haley ranch in Kansas. When Chris Haley, an embittered Union soldier, returns from war, Hannah knows her days at the ranch are numbered. How much time does she have before Chris throws the Confederate caretaker Hannah out of his home and life forever?
My Review:
To be totally honest, even with the lovely cover, I probably wouldn't have picked up this book. I don't like reading war novels that much. But I featured this book on my blog, and I made a promise to read and review the Christmas novels in October and November. I'm glad I did.
I would have missed a collection of character-driven stories that were strong on doing what is right in the face of extreme adversity. I fell in love with the characters and felt their pain with them. I knew this book would be good because of the quality of the authors who made up the team. I've read and loved other books by all of them.
Fools Rush In
By Janice Thompson
ISBN 978-0-8007-3342-1
Revell
Contemporary Romance
Weddings by Bella, Book One
Back Cover Copy:
Ever Wonder How Italian Sounds with a Southern Drawl?
Bella Rossi's life is just starting to get interesting. When her Italian-turned-Texan parents hand over the family wedding-planning business, Bella quickly books a Boot-Scootin' wedding that would make any Texan proud. There's only one catch--she doesn't know a thing about country music. Where will she find a deejay on such short notice who knows his Alan Jackson from his George Strait? And will Bella ever get to plan her own wedding?
Fun, fresh, and full of surprises, this flavorbul compination of Italian and Tex-Mex highlights the hilarity that ensues when cultures clash.
My Review:
I've been reading Janice Thompson books as long as she's been writing them, and I loved her stories. But with this book, I think she's finally found her unique voice.
The story is a rollicking, fun read that takes you through wildly contrasting cultures. And she does it with a finesse that keeps it from crossing the line from humor into exaggerated caricature.
I loved watching the spiritual development of the main characters that wraps seamlessly into the developing romance. Janice is the director who brings it all to life in the reader's mind.
You won't want to miss this series.
Swinging on a Star
By Janice Thompson
ISBN 978-0-8007-3343-6
Revell
Contemporary Romance
Weddings by Bella, Book Two
Back Cover Copy:
There's a Fine Line Between Ambitious and Crazy. Bella's Just Not Sure Where It Is.
Bella Rossi's life is nearing perfection. Not only does she have the perfect guy, but she's also running a successful wedding plannig business and is about to plan its most ambitious wedding yet--a Renaissance-themed fairy tale come true, complete with period costumes and foods, horse-drawn carriages, and even a castle. There's only one hitch. The best man just happens to be Hollywood's hottest and most eligible bachelor, and he's showing an interest in Bella. Oh, and did we mention he's staying at her house to avoid the paparazzi?
With all the pressure surrounding this wedding, Bella's not sure she's going to make it through. Add her starstruck sister and her feuding aunt and uncle, and you've got a recipe for disaster--and a lot of laughs.
My Review:
I didn't think Janice could top her first book with the list of possible things that could (and do) go awry. I was actually wrong in that assumption. The disasters pile upon each other at an alarming rate, complete with a cast of quirky characters who throw Bella into a tizzy.
I loved the development in the lives of many of the secondary characters in this book. And the wedding was marvelous. But the roadblocks were hilarious, and the spiritual truths learned by several people in the book touched my heart.
Quickly get yourself a copy if you want a fun read.
Dead Reckoning
By Ronie Kendig
ISBN 971-4267-0058-3
Abingdon Press
Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Back Cover Copy:
Trapped by a nuclear terrorist plot in Mumbai!
Underwater archeologist Shiloh Blake is consumed with passion for the water and inflamed at the injustices of life.
When her first large-scale dig traps her in the middle of an international nuclear arms clash, she flees for her life. When she spots a man trailing her, the questions are, "Who is he?" and "How is he always one step ahead?"
Reece Jaxon is a former Navy SEAL and now serves his country as a spy. His life is entangled by the beguiling Shiloh Blake as he hunts down the source of a nuclear dead drop in the Arabian Sea near Mumbai, India.
The only way to end this nightmare and prevent a nuclear meltdown is to join forces with Reece. Will Shiloh violate her vow to never become a spy?
My Review:
I personally don't like to read Advanced Readers Copies of books. However, when the publicist for Abingdon included this ARC in one of the packages she sent to me, I had to read it. Ronie Kendig is one of the authors I mentored before she signed her first book contract, so of course, I wanted to read her debut novel as soon as possible.
I was totally blown away. The book is written very tight and at a breathtaking pace. With every few pages, surprises change everything for the main characters. It was very hard to put the book down when I had to. I wanted to read just the next page, then the next, then. . . You get the picture.
This book has something for almost every reader. The suspense with plenty of explosions to keep a male reader happy, a rich tapestry of setting skillfully woven in with just enough snippets of information to allow the readers to create the place in their own imaginations, and a strong love story with more than its fair share of roadblocks.
You won't want to miss this wonderful read. Unfortunately, it won't release until March. But you can preorder a copy at this link: Dead Reckoning
January ACFW Book Releases
Twelve releases this month from ACFW members. Congrats to all!
1. A Stray Drop of Blood, by Roseanna M. White from Whitefire Publishing. Born free, made a slave, married out of her bonds, Abigail never knows freedom until she feels the fire of a stray drop of blood from a Jewish carpenter.
2. A Deadly Wilderness, by Kelly Irvin from Five Star/Gale/Cengage. A family that will stop at nothing to protect its secrets and a drug cartel hit man are just two of the pieces to the puzzle Homicide Detective Ray Johnson must solve to find a murderer—and save his own life.
3. Becoming Lucy - The Winds Across the Prairie Series, by Martha Rogers from Realms Division of Strang Communications. An alleged murderer reclaims his life, but can he reclaim his beloved?
4. Burn, by Erin Healy and Ted Dekker from Thomas Nelson. A supernatural thriller about a woman who gets an unwanted chance to extinguish her fiery past.
5. First Impressions , by Michelle Sutton from Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. Playing the role of a saloon girl taught her how to flirt, but it makes a lousy first impression on the man whose heart she longs to win.
6. Jenna's Cowboy- Callahans of Texas, 1, by Sharon Gillenwater from Baker/Revell. Will Jenna's love enable Nate to put the horrors of war behind him and become the man she deserves?
7. Never Far from Home- 2nd in the Miller Family Series, by Mary Ellis from Harvest House Publishers. Emma's rebellious Rumschpringe may lead to her banishment as friendship turns to love with the English sheepfarmer.
8. Plain Jane, by Hillary Manton Lodge from Harvest House Publishers. Girl reporter Jayne Tate finds more than she bargained for when she goes to Amish Country to research a story.
9. Sworn to Protect, by Diann Mills from Tyndale. Danika Morales has sworn to protect our nation's borders. But that oath has come with a price.
10. The Chic Shall Inherit the Earth - All About Us #6, by Shelley Adina from Hatchette FaithWords. At exclusive Spencer Academy, Lissa Mansfield gains popularity when she replaces her nemesis, Vanessa, on the senior Cotillion committee, but graduation and major decisions about the future loom.
11. The Choice - Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1, by Suzanne Woods Fisher from Revell. A tender story of love and forgiveness, "The Choice" uncovers the sweet simplicity of the Amish world--and shows it's never too late to find your way back to God.
12. The Husband Tree - Montana Marriages, by Mary Connealy from Barbour. A tough lady rancher drags a reluctant cowhand on a cattledrive, along with her four daughters.
Happy Reading!
Musings
Breakthrough. . .Wait. . .Victory. 2010 is sounding like a wonderful year already.
You’ve heard the saying, “Today is the first day of the rest of your life.” Well, today is the first day of the rest of 2010. I’m going to face this year with a sense of expectancy in my heart.
What is God going to do this year? You can be sure it will be different from anything you planned for yourself. And He will enhance the things you planned.
So I pray new year’s blessings on you and yours in 2010.
Every year, my friend Rita Booth and I both ask God for a word for the year. This is the word He gave me for me. Rita’s word is Wait. Then at the New Year’s Eve prayer meeting at Gateway Church, Pastor Robert said the word for Gateway this year is Victory. That sounds a lot like breakthrough to me.
Announcements
Three book winners for December are: Nancy Jackson – Southlake, Texas, Abi Buening – Grand Forks, North Dakota, and Kim Boldt, Gravett, Arkansas. You can choose either Wild Prairie Roses or Cranberry Hearts. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/ . The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox. I will only post a newsletter once a month.
And introduce your friends to my newsletter. They might be interested in winning free books and reading book reviews.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 16 free books a month on my blog: http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/ . Most months we give away more than that. This month I’ll be interviewing these authors:
Sharlene MacLaren – Maggie Rose
Kaye Dacus – A Case for Love
Roxanne Rustand – Fatal Burn
Martha Rogers – Becoming Lucy
C. J. Darlington – Thicker Than Blood
Lisa Harris – Colorado Crimes
Jennifer AlLee – The Pastor’s Wife
Kelly Irvin – A Deadly Wilderness
Shanna Groves – Lip Reader
M. L. Tyndall – The Raven Saint
Susan Page Davis and Megan Davis – Mainely Mysteries
Linore Rose Burkard – The Country House Courtship
Deborah Raney – Beneath a Southern Sky
Kathie Fitzpatrick – Angel Promises
Janet Dean – The Substitute Bride
Mary Connealy – The Husband Tree
Susan May Warren – Sons of Thunder
Rachel Hauck – The Sweet By and By
Mary DeMuth – Thin Places
Betsy St. Amant – A Valentine’s Wish
That's a real smorgasbord of books to fit all kinds of reading tastes.
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Another place you can find out what’s going on in Christian publishing today:
http://canblog.typepad.com/
I’ love for you to follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/lenandooley
Calendar of Events
February 21-25, 2010 – Writer’s Retreat, Round Top, Texas
April 10, 2010 – DFW Ready Writers, Colleyville, Texas - Utilizing the Internet
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 2010 – Book Release Party, Mardel Christian Store, Hurst, Texas
May 8, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm) – Two workshops - Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
June 26, 2010 – ACFW local chapter – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma - Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
September 17 – 20, 2010 – ACFW National Conference, Indianapolis, Indiana
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
A Blue and Gray Christmas
By Vickie McDonough, Lauralee Bliss, Tamela Hancock Murray, Carrie Turansky
ISBN 978-1-60260-565-7
Barbour
Historical Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
Christmas Love Captures Hearts During the Civil War
Despite the Blue and Gray troops advancing on their hometown of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Leah Woods and Seth Madison vow to wed at the dawn of the New Year. But when Seth disappears, Leah is left alone, clinging to whatever faith she can muster.
On Christmas Day, Arabella Lambert accepts Barry Birch's proposal of marriage. But as Barry's pacifist leanings come to light, he's labeled a coward. Is their love strong enough to stand against public ridicule?
Rachel Thornton nurses the wounded James Galloway back to health, only to see him determined to head back to the front lines. Can Rachel risk falling for James? Or would her heart be better off in the hands of another man?
After the loss of her Confederate home and husband, Hannah McIntosh found refuge at the Haley ranch in Kansas. When Chris Haley, an embittered Union soldier, returns from war, Hannah knows her days at the ranch are numbered. How much time does she have before Chris throws the Confederate caretaker Hannah out of his home and life forever?
My Review:
To be totally honest, even with the lovely cover, I probably wouldn't have picked up this book. I don't like reading war novels that much. But I featured this book on my blog, and I made a promise to read and review the Christmas novels in October and November. I'm glad I did.
I would have missed a collection of character-driven stories that were strong on doing what is right in the face of extreme adversity. I fell in love with the characters and felt their pain with them. I knew this book would be good because of the quality of the authors who made up the team. I've read and loved other books by all of them.
Fools Rush In
By Janice Thompson
ISBN 978-0-8007-3342-1
Revell
Contemporary Romance
Weddings by Bella, Book One
Back Cover Copy:
Ever Wonder How Italian Sounds with a Southern Drawl?
Bella Rossi's life is just starting to get interesting. When her Italian-turned-Texan parents hand over the family wedding-planning business, Bella quickly books a Boot-Scootin' wedding that would make any Texan proud. There's only one catch--she doesn't know a thing about country music. Where will she find a deejay on such short notice who knows his Alan Jackson from his George Strait? And will Bella ever get to plan her own wedding?
Fun, fresh, and full of surprises, this flavorbul compination of Italian and Tex-Mex highlights the hilarity that ensues when cultures clash.
My Review:
I've been reading Janice Thompson books as long as she's been writing them, and I loved her stories. But with this book, I think she's finally found her unique voice.
The story is a rollicking, fun read that takes you through wildly contrasting cultures. And she does it with a finesse that keeps it from crossing the line from humor into exaggerated caricature.
I loved watching the spiritual development of the main characters that wraps seamlessly into the developing romance. Janice is the director who brings it all to life in the reader's mind.
You won't want to miss this series.
Swinging on a Star
By Janice Thompson
ISBN 978-0-8007-3343-6
Revell
Contemporary Romance
Weddings by Bella, Book Two
Back Cover Copy:
There's a Fine Line Between Ambitious and Crazy. Bella's Just Not Sure Where It Is.
Bella Rossi's life is nearing perfection. Not only does she have the perfect guy, but she's also running a successful wedding plannig business and is about to plan its most ambitious wedding yet--a Renaissance-themed fairy tale come true, complete with period costumes and foods, horse-drawn carriages, and even a castle. There's only one hitch. The best man just happens to be Hollywood's hottest and most eligible bachelor, and he's showing an interest in Bella. Oh, and did we mention he's staying at her house to avoid the paparazzi?
With all the pressure surrounding this wedding, Bella's not sure she's going to make it through. Add her starstruck sister and her feuding aunt and uncle, and you've got a recipe for disaster--and a lot of laughs.
My Review:
I didn't think Janice could top her first book with the list of possible things that could (and do) go awry. I was actually wrong in that assumption. The disasters pile upon each other at an alarming rate, complete with a cast of quirky characters who throw Bella into a tizzy.
I loved the development in the lives of many of the secondary characters in this book. And the wedding was marvelous. But the roadblocks were hilarious, and the spiritual truths learned by several people in the book touched my heart.
Quickly get yourself a copy if you want a fun read.
Dead Reckoning
By Ronie Kendig
ISBN 971-4267-0058-3
Abingdon Press
Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Back Cover Copy:
Trapped by a nuclear terrorist plot in Mumbai!
Underwater archeologist Shiloh Blake is consumed with passion for the water and inflamed at the injustices of life.
When her first large-scale dig traps her in the middle of an international nuclear arms clash, she flees for her life. When she spots a man trailing her, the questions are, "Who is he?" and "How is he always one step ahead?"
Reece Jaxon is a former Navy SEAL and now serves his country as a spy. His life is entangled by the beguiling Shiloh Blake as he hunts down the source of a nuclear dead drop in the Arabian Sea near Mumbai, India.
The only way to end this nightmare and prevent a nuclear meltdown is to join forces with Reece. Will Shiloh violate her vow to never become a spy?
My Review:
I personally don't like to read Advanced Readers Copies of books. However, when the publicist for Abingdon included this ARC in one of the packages she sent to me, I had to read it. Ronie Kendig is one of the authors I mentored before she signed her first book contract, so of course, I wanted to read her debut novel as soon as possible.
I was totally blown away. The book is written very tight and at a breathtaking pace. With every few pages, surprises change everything for the main characters. It was very hard to put the book down when I had to. I wanted to read just the next page, then the next, then. . . You get the picture.
This book has something for almost every reader. The suspense with plenty of explosions to keep a male reader happy, a rich tapestry of setting skillfully woven in with just enough snippets of information to allow the readers to create the place in their own imaginations, and a strong love story with more than its fair share of roadblocks.
You won't want to miss this wonderful read. Unfortunately, it won't release until March. But you can preorder a copy at this link: Dead Reckoning
January ACFW Book Releases
Twelve releases this month from ACFW members. Congrats to all!
1. A Stray Drop of Blood, by Roseanna M. White from Whitefire Publishing. Born free, made a slave, married out of her bonds, Abigail never knows freedom until she feels the fire of a stray drop of blood from a Jewish carpenter.
2. A Deadly Wilderness, by Kelly Irvin from Five Star/Gale/Cengage. A family that will stop at nothing to protect its secrets and a drug cartel hit man are just two of the pieces to the puzzle Homicide Detective Ray Johnson must solve to find a murderer—and save his own life.
3. Becoming Lucy - The Winds Across the Prairie Series, by Martha Rogers from Realms Division of Strang Communications. An alleged murderer reclaims his life, but can he reclaim his beloved?
4. Burn, by Erin Healy and Ted Dekker from Thomas Nelson. A supernatural thriller about a woman who gets an unwanted chance to extinguish her fiery past.
5. First Impressions , by Michelle Sutton from Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. Playing the role of a saloon girl taught her how to flirt, but it makes a lousy first impression on the man whose heart she longs to win.
6. Jenna's Cowboy- Callahans of Texas, 1, by Sharon Gillenwater from Baker/Revell. Will Jenna's love enable Nate to put the horrors of war behind him and become the man she deserves?
7. Never Far from Home- 2nd in the Miller Family Series, by Mary Ellis from Harvest House Publishers. Emma's rebellious Rumschpringe may lead to her banishment as friendship turns to love with the English sheepfarmer.
8. Plain Jane, by Hillary Manton Lodge from Harvest House Publishers. Girl reporter Jayne Tate finds more than she bargained for when she goes to Amish Country to research a story.
9. Sworn to Protect, by Diann Mills from Tyndale. Danika Morales has sworn to protect our nation's borders. But that oath has come with a price.
10. The Chic Shall Inherit the Earth - All About Us #6, by Shelley Adina from Hatchette FaithWords. At exclusive Spencer Academy, Lissa Mansfield gains popularity when she replaces her nemesis, Vanessa, on the senior Cotillion committee, but graduation and major decisions about the future loom.
11. The Choice - Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1, by Suzanne Woods Fisher from Revell. A tender story of love and forgiveness, "The Choice" uncovers the sweet simplicity of the Amish world--and shows it's never too late to find your way back to God.
12. The Husband Tree - Montana Marriages, by Mary Connealy from Barbour. A tough lady rancher drags a reluctant cowhand on a cattledrive, along with her four daughters.
Happy Reading!
Musings
Breakthrough. . .Wait. . .Victory. 2010 is sounding like a wonderful year already.
You’ve heard the saying, “Today is the first day of the rest of your life.” Well, today is the first day of the rest of 2010. I’m going to face this year with a sense of expectancy in my heart.
What is God going to do this year? You can be sure it will be different from anything you planned for yourself. And He will enhance the things you planned.
So I pray new year’s blessings on you and yours in 2010.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
December 2009
A Baby changes everything.
Announcements
Three book winners for November are: Jane Squires – Wasola, Missouri, Jackie Colletta Miller – Hyndman, Pennsylvania, and Joyce Shelton, Natchitoches, Louisiana. You can choose either Montana Mistletoe or Snowbound Colorado Christmas. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/ . The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox. I will only post a newsletter once a month.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 16 free books a month on my blog: http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/ . Most months we give away more than that. This month I’ll be interviewing these authors:
Ariel Allison – Eye of the God
Linda S. Clare – The Fence My Father Built
Julie Klassen – The Silent Governess
Margaret Daley – Christmas Peril
Melanie Dobson – Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana
Patti Hill – Seeing Things
Dan Walsh – The Unfinished Gift
Susan Page Davis – The Sheriff’s Surrender
James David Jordan – Double Cross
John B Olson – Powers
T. L. Higley – Guardian of the Flame
Cheryl Wyatt – A Soldier’s Devotion
Wanda Dyson – Shepherd’s Run
Margaret Brownley – A Lady Named Sarah
Denise Hunter – Seaside Letters
Jenny B Jones – Just Between You and Me
Debbie Fuller Thomas – Raising Rain
Cami Checketts – The Sister Pact
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Another place you can find out what’s going on in Christian publishing today:
http://canblog.typepad.com/
Calendar of Events
February 21-25, 2010 – Writer’s Retreat
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 8, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm) – Two workshops Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level
September 2010 - ACFW National Conference - Indianapolis
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
Cowboy Christmas
By Mary Connealy
ISBN 978-1-60260-145-1
Barbour
Historical Romance
Back Cover Copy:
A secretive singer reawakens a cowboy's wounded heart at Christmastime.
Singer Annette Talbot used her voice to spread the gospel with a traveling missionary troupe. When the Latrells take over and want Annie to dress provocatively and give up singing her beloved hymns, Annie flees to Ranger Bluff, Wyoming, dreaming of reuniting with her father for Christmas. But trouble chases her--right off the edge of a cliff!
Elijah Walker's heart turned as cold and barren as the high plains in December after his ex-fiancee betrayed him and caused his father's death. But when he rescues Annie out of a freezing river, Walker's instincts tell him he must help a stranger in need.
With her hermit father retreating to the high country and the Latrells intent on kidnapping her to make money off her singing, Annie may have no way out.
Has Annie hidden the truth about wanted posters bearing her face too long for anyone to believe her now?
Can Elijah overcome the painful past and learn to love again?
Will there ever be peace in their hearts in time for Christmas?
My Review:
This book is classic Mary Connealy with Christmas thrown in. Strong cowboy hero, heroine in peril, truly evil antagonists. A fast-moving story that takes many twists and turns.
One thing she left unexplained, and I really wish I knew the outcome of that particular thread. However, it didn't detract from the rollicking story.
Another book to add to your Christmas reading list.
The Sound of Sleigh Bells
By Cindy Woodsmall
ISBN 978-0-307-44633-4
Waterbrook Press
Contemporary
Back Cover Copy:
Beth Hertzler is unable to let go of a past tragedy.
Still in mourning, she cuts herself off from any hope of happiness.
A gifted carver holds the answer to both her past and future in his hands--but can Beth move beyond yesterday and embrace a second chance at love?
My Review:
I do not wonder that Cindy Woodsmall is a NEW YORK TIMES best-selling author. Her books have depth and width as well as giving the readers characters they can love.
This story shows people who listen to the lies of the enemy and keep painful secrets instead of getting help with healing from them. The way she crafts the story takes you into the very hearts of these people and leads you through the healing process. And there are many surprises along the way.
I highly recommend this book for your growing Christmas reading list.
Together for the Holidays
By Margaret Daley
ISBN 978-0-373-87559-7
Love Inspired
Contemporary
Fostered by Love, Book 5
A family guided them to faith, but only love could heal their hearts.
Back Cover Copy:
Her Holiday Hope
A single mother with a traumatic past, Lisa Morgan only wants to raise her son with love and values. But lately the boy is strugling. When his basketball coach becomes a reluctant role model, Lisa is relieved. Until she learns that David Russell is also a cop. She's not ready to share her past--or her heart. And neither is the world-weary detective. Yet as Christmas comes closer, the true meaning of the holiday brings them together in ways they never dared dream.
My Review:
I enjoy the Love Inspired novels, because they're not a long read, but they pack a punch. Margaret Daley is one of my favorite Love Inspired authors. As always, she delivered a wonderful story full of nuances.
TOGETHER FOR THE HOLIDAYS brings together people with a number of believable issues and throws them into situations they're not ready to face. I loved the way the characters developed and grew in the story.
And I really enjoy books that take place over the Christmas season. I recommend this book for a quick read in your limited time during the holidays.
Christmas Peril
By Margaret Daley & Debby Giusti
ISBN 978-0-373-44365-9
Love Inspired Suspense
Contemporary Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
Christmas Bells Ring With Danger in These Suspenseful Holiday Stories
MERRY MAYHEM by Margaret Daley
When single mom Annie Coleman unexpectedly arrives in Christmas, Oklahoma, police chief Caleb Jackson suspects she's hiding secrets. He'll be watching her closely. And his protection is just what Annie and her daughter need, as danger has followed them to their new home.
YULE DIE by Debby Giusti
It's hardly a happy holiday for medical researcher Callie Evans. . .until she discovers her ailing patient is her long-lost brother. And he's being watched by undercover police officer Joe Petrecelli. When the trio is abducted by a cadre of bad guys, Joe and Callie will have to fight to keep her brother--and themselves--alive.
My Review:
I loved both of these stories. With Margaret's story the suspense is softer than in Debby's book, but they're both page turners with lots of twists and turns.
Yule (you'll) want to add this to your holiday reading list.
Christmas Homecoming
By Debby Mayne, Paige Winship Dooly, Elizabeth Goddard, Elizabeth Ludwig
ISBN 978-1-60260-564-0
Barbour
Contemporary Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
A Grandmother's Letters Bring Three Women Home for Christmas
Grandma Carol Scheirer never thought she'd marry again. But when Alex Knight, an old family friend, confesses his love for her, romance ensues. Using her wedding as the perfect excuse, Carol begs her granddaughters to return to Boulder, Colorado, for an old-fashioned Christmas family reunion. But will her family approve of the new man in her life?
Party planner Noelle Evans arrives in Boulder to help with her grandmother's wedding. But when she has an accident, she finds herself face-to-face with Rocky Carmichael, MD---the man who once jilted her. Will she find more than physical healing at the hands of her ex-fiance?
Writer Christmas Scheirer feels her greed led to her grandfather's death. When she comes accross her grandfather's letters, Christmas will do anything to get them published---even if it means butting heads with Marcus Taggart, the guardian of Grandpa's estate. How far will Christmas go to right her wrongs?
On furlough, missionary Holly Rivers arrives in Boulder for Grandma's wedding. When she runs into Nick Brohns, the man she left behind for God's work, tensions mount. Will God give them both a new mission in life?
My Review:
You won't want to miss this collection written by four of my good friends. Each author brings her own unique twist to the story she tells. And the stories are more than good romances. They're stories about second chances. Don't we all need one of those ever so often?
A Blue and Gray Christmas
By Vickie McDonough, Lauralee Bliss, Tamela Hancock Murray, Carrie Turansky
ISBN 978-1-60260-565-7
Barbour
Historical Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
Christmas Love Captures Hearts During the Civil War
Despite the Blue and Gray troops advancing on their hometown of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Leah Woods and Seth Madison vow to wed at the dawn of the New Year. But when Seth disappears, Leah is left alone, clinging to whatever faith she can muster.
On Christmas Day, Arabella Lambert accepts Barry Birch's proposal of marriage. But as Barry's pacifist leanings come to light, he's labeled a coward. Is their love strong enough to stand against public ridicule?
Rachel Thornton nurses the wounded James Galloway back to health, only to see him determined to head back to the front lines. Can Rachel risk falling for James? Or would her heart be better off in the hands of another man?
After the loss of her Confederate home and husband, Hannah McIntosh found refuge at the Haley ranch in Kansas. When Chris Haley, an embittered Union soldier, returns from war, Hannah knows her days at the ranch are numbered. How much time does she have before Chris throws the Confederate caretaker Hannah out of his home and life forever?
My Review:
To be totally honest, even with the lovely cover, I probably wouldn't have picked up this book. I don't like reading war novels that much. But I featured this book on my blog, and I made a promise to read and review the Christmas novels in October and November. I'm glad I did.
I would have missed a wonderful collection of character-driven stories that were strong on doing what is right in the face of extreme adversity. I fell in love with the characters and felt their pain with them. I knew this book would be good because of the quality of the authors who made up the team. I've read and loved other books by all of them.
Don't leave this book off your Christmas reading list.
December ACFW Book Releases
Eleven releases this month from ACFW members.
Congrats to all!
1. A Bouquet for Iris, by Diane Ashley & Aaron McCarver from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Iris Landon travels to Daisy, Tennessee, to care for two Cherokee children and finds romance and danger while aiding one family in the struggle to keep their land.
2. A Lady Like Sarah, Rocky Creek Romance, by Margaret Brownley from Thomas Nelson. He's a preacher. She's an outlaw. Both are in need of a miracle.
3. ANGEL WITH A BACKHOE, by Deb Kinnard from Desert
Breeze Publishing. A small-town widower and a spunky suburban transplant match wits over a church construction project, finding true love can mix with blueprints and concrete footings.
4. Child Finder: Resurrection series: Child Finder Trilogy, 2nd book, by Mike Angley from Total Recall Publications, Inc. Child Finder: Resurrection…the highly-anticipated sequel to the award-winning debut novel, Child Finder, which Library Journal placed on its 2009 Summer Reads list for Christian fiction!
5. Christmas Peril, by Margaret Daley from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Christmas themed, romantic suspense stories.
6. Cup of Joe, by Teri Wilson from White Rose Publishing. A grieving oman resists the cups of comfort offered by the shy, but handsome, owner of the neighborhood coffee shop.
7. Field of Danger, by Ramona Richards from Love Inspired Suspense. When April Presley can’t remember details of the murder she witnessed, deputy Daniel Rivers must help her recall the event and protect her from the killer determined to silence her.
8. Her Patchwork Family series: The Gabriel Sisters, by Lyn Cote from Love Inspired. In spite of opposition from the rich and influential, can Felicity Gabriel establish a home for children orphaned by the Civil War and heal two wounded hearts?
9. Patterns and Progress series: Michigan historical, book 3, by Amber Stockton from Barbour Publishing. A farmer's daughter would rather turn back the hands of time than accept the fact that advancement in technology could be in God's plan.
10. The Sheriff's Surrender series: #1 of The Ladies' Shooting Club Series, by Susan Page Davis from Barbour Publishing. The men of Fergus aren’t keeping the town safe, so a group of feisty women take matters into their own hands.
11. The Glassblower series: First book in the New Jersey Historical Series, by Laurie Alice Eakes from Barbour Publishing. Colin Grassick moves from Edinburgh, Scotland to Salem county New jersey to take a position as a master glassblower. He loves his work and hopes of bringing his family to America for a better life. But his love for Meg, the daughter of the owner of the glassworks, threatens his job...and then his life.
Happy Reading!
Musings
I’m happy to report that I will send the completed manuscript for Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico, later today, which is the deadline date. Just a few more tweaks.
This is the last post of 2009, the year of the unexpected as per the word I received from God about the year. It certainly contained many and varied unexpecteds. And I praise God for every one of them.
At the top of this blog, I put a quote we read on a sign at a church we passed. “A Baby changes everything.” James laughed.
“That could mean several things.” We know that the church was talking about the coming of our Savior to the earth. That was the single event in history that changed everything that happened since the event. And we’re thankful for His presence in our lives today.
But sometimes the birth of a baby is unexpected and brings unplanned changes in our lives. That doesn’t mean the coming of the baby into the family is a bad thing. The birth of a child brings a hope for the future. A blessing from God.
That’s how I looked at every unexpected that we faced this year. And here we are at the end of the year, thanking God for walking through the highs and the lows with us. He’s the bright and shining star in our lives.
A final note: James and I went to see the movie Blind Side. Even though the local newspaper movie reviewer didn’t give it a very favorable review, the theater was packed. Actually, we had to buy tickets to the next showing after the one we came for, because it was a sell out.
I highly recommend this movie to you. Although it doesn’t gloss over the harder side of life, it brings a message of hope. A very uplifting movie.
See you again in January 2010.
Announcements
Three book winners for November are: Jane Squires – Wasola, Missouri, Jackie Colletta Miller – Hyndman, Pennsylvania, and Joyce Shelton, Natchitoches, Louisiana. You can choose either Montana Mistletoe or Snowbound Colorado Christmas. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/ . The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox. I will only post a newsletter once a month.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 16 free books a month on my blog: http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/ . Most months we give away more than that. This month I’ll be interviewing these authors:
Ariel Allison – Eye of the God
Linda S. Clare – The Fence My Father Built
Julie Klassen – The Silent Governess
Margaret Daley – Christmas Peril
Melanie Dobson – Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana
Patti Hill – Seeing Things
Dan Walsh – The Unfinished Gift
Susan Page Davis – The Sheriff’s Surrender
James David Jordan – Double Cross
John B Olson – Powers
T. L. Higley – Guardian of the Flame
Cheryl Wyatt – A Soldier’s Devotion
Wanda Dyson – Shepherd’s Run
Margaret Brownley – A Lady Named Sarah
Denise Hunter – Seaside Letters
Jenny B Jones – Just Between You and Me
Debbie Fuller Thomas – Raising Rain
Cami Checketts – The Sister Pact
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Another place you can find out what’s going on in Christian publishing today:
http://canblog.typepad.com/
Calendar of Events
February 21-25, 2010 – Writer’s Retreat
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 8, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm) – Two workshops Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level
September 2010 - ACFW National Conference - Indianapolis
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
Cowboy Christmas
By Mary Connealy
ISBN 978-1-60260-145-1
Barbour
Historical Romance
Back Cover Copy:
A secretive singer reawakens a cowboy's wounded heart at Christmastime.
Singer Annette Talbot used her voice to spread the gospel with a traveling missionary troupe. When the Latrells take over and want Annie to dress provocatively and give up singing her beloved hymns, Annie flees to Ranger Bluff, Wyoming, dreaming of reuniting with her father for Christmas. But trouble chases her--right off the edge of a cliff!
Elijah Walker's heart turned as cold and barren as the high plains in December after his ex-fiancee betrayed him and caused his father's death. But when he rescues Annie out of a freezing river, Walker's instincts tell him he must help a stranger in need.
With her hermit father retreating to the high country and the Latrells intent on kidnapping her to make money off her singing, Annie may have no way out.
Has Annie hidden the truth about wanted posters bearing her face too long for anyone to believe her now?
Can Elijah overcome the painful past and learn to love again?
Will there ever be peace in their hearts in time for Christmas?
My Review:
This book is classic Mary Connealy with Christmas thrown in. Strong cowboy hero, heroine in peril, truly evil antagonists. A fast-moving story that takes many twists and turns.
One thing she left unexplained, and I really wish I knew the outcome of that particular thread. However, it didn't detract from the rollicking story.
Another book to add to your Christmas reading list.
The Sound of Sleigh Bells
By Cindy Woodsmall
ISBN 978-0-307-44633-4
Waterbrook Press
Contemporary
Back Cover Copy:
Beth Hertzler is unable to let go of a past tragedy.
Still in mourning, she cuts herself off from any hope of happiness.
A gifted carver holds the answer to both her past and future in his hands--but can Beth move beyond yesterday and embrace a second chance at love?
My Review:
I do not wonder that Cindy Woodsmall is a NEW YORK TIMES best-selling author. Her books have depth and width as well as giving the readers characters they can love.
This story shows people who listen to the lies of the enemy and keep painful secrets instead of getting help with healing from them. The way she crafts the story takes you into the very hearts of these people and leads you through the healing process. And there are many surprises along the way.
I highly recommend this book for your growing Christmas reading list.
Together for the Holidays
By Margaret Daley
ISBN 978-0-373-87559-7
Love Inspired
Contemporary
Fostered by Love, Book 5
A family guided them to faith, but only love could heal their hearts.
Back Cover Copy:
Her Holiday Hope
A single mother with a traumatic past, Lisa Morgan only wants to raise her son with love and values. But lately the boy is strugling. When his basketball coach becomes a reluctant role model, Lisa is relieved. Until she learns that David Russell is also a cop. She's not ready to share her past--or her heart. And neither is the world-weary detective. Yet as Christmas comes closer, the true meaning of the holiday brings them together in ways they never dared dream.
My Review:
I enjoy the Love Inspired novels, because they're not a long read, but they pack a punch. Margaret Daley is one of my favorite Love Inspired authors. As always, she delivered a wonderful story full of nuances.
TOGETHER FOR THE HOLIDAYS brings together people with a number of believable issues and throws them into situations they're not ready to face. I loved the way the characters developed and grew in the story.
And I really enjoy books that take place over the Christmas season. I recommend this book for a quick read in your limited time during the holidays.
Christmas Peril
By Margaret Daley & Debby Giusti
ISBN 978-0-373-44365-9
Love Inspired Suspense
Contemporary Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
Christmas Bells Ring With Danger in These Suspenseful Holiday Stories
MERRY MAYHEM by Margaret Daley
When single mom Annie Coleman unexpectedly arrives in Christmas, Oklahoma, police chief Caleb Jackson suspects she's hiding secrets. He'll be watching her closely. And his protection is just what Annie and her daughter need, as danger has followed them to their new home.
YULE DIE by Debby Giusti
It's hardly a happy holiday for medical researcher Callie Evans. . .until she discovers her ailing patient is her long-lost brother. And he's being watched by undercover police officer Joe Petrecelli. When the trio is abducted by a cadre of bad guys, Joe and Callie will have to fight to keep her brother--and themselves--alive.
My Review:
I loved both of these stories. With Margaret's story the suspense is softer than in Debby's book, but they're both page turners with lots of twists and turns.
Yule (you'll) want to add this to your holiday reading list.
Christmas Homecoming
By Debby Mayne, Paige Winship Dooly, Elizabeth Goddard, Elizabeth Ludwig
ISBN 978-1-60260-564-0
Barbour
Contemporary Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
A Grandmother's Letters Bring Three Women Home for Christmas
Grandma Carol Scheirer never thought she'd marry again. But when Alex Knight, an old family friend, confesses his love for her, romance ensues. Using her wedding as the perfect excuse, Carol begs her granddaughters to return to Boulder, Colorado, for an old-fashioned Christmas family reunion. But will her family approve of the new man in her life?
Party planner Noelle Evans arrives in Boulder to help with her grandmother's wedding. But when she has an accident, she finds herself face-to-face with Rocky Carmichael, MD---the man who once jilted her. Will she find more than physical healing at the hands of her ex-fiance?
Writer Christmas Scheirer feels her greed led to her grandfather's death. When she comes accross her grandfather's letters, Christmas will do anything to get them published---even if it means butting heads with Marcus Taggart, the guardian of Grandpa's estate. How far will Christmas go to right her wrongs?
On furlough, missionary Holly Rivers arrives in Boulder for Grandma's wedding. When she runs into Nick Brohns, the man she left behind for God's work, tensions mount. Will God give them both a new mission in life?
My Review:
You won't want to miss this collection written by four of my good friends. Each author brings her own unique twist to the story she tells. And the stories are more than good romances. They're stories about second chances. Don't we all need one of those ever so often?
A Blue and Gray Christmas
By Vickie McDonough, Lauralee Bliss, Tamela Hancock Murray, Carrie Turansky
ISBN 978-1-60260-565-7
Barbour
Historical Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
Christmas Love Captures Hearts During the Civil War
Despite the Blue and Gray troops advancing on their hometown of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Leah Woods and Seth Madison vow to wed at the dawn of the New Year. But when Seth disappears, Leah is left alone, clinging to whatever faith she can muster.
On Christmas Day, Arabella Lambert accepts Barry Birch's proposal of marriage. But as Barry's pacifist leanings come to light, he's labeled a coward. Is their love strong enough to stand against public ridicule?
Rachel Thornton nurses the wounded James Galloway back to health, only to see him determined to head back to the front lines. Can Rachel risk falling for James? Or would her heart be better off in the hands of another man?
After the loss of her Confederate home and husband, Hannah McIntosh found refuge at the Haley ranch in Kansas. When Chris Haley, an embittered Union soldier, returns from war, Hannah knows her days at the ranch are numbered. How much time does she have before Chris throws the Confederate caretaker Hannah out of his home and life forever?
My Review:
To be totally honest, even with the lovely cover, I probably wouldn't have picked up this book. I don't like reading war novels that much. But I featured this book on my blog, and I made a promise to read and review the Christmas novels in October and November. I'm glad I did.
I would have missed a wonderful collection of character-driven stories that were strong on doing what is right in the face of extreme adversity. I fell in love with the characters and felt their pain with them. I knew this book would be good because of the quality of the authors who made up the team. I've read and loved other books by all of them.
Don't leave this book off your Christmas reading list.
December ACFW Book Releases
Eleven releases this month from ACFW members.
Congrats to all!
1. A Bouquet for Iris, by Diane Ashley & Aaron McCarver from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Iris Landon travels to Daisy, Tennessee, to care for two Cherokee children and finds romance and danger while aiding one family in the struggle to keep their land.
2. A Lady Like Sarah, Rocky Creek Romance, by Margaret Brownley from Thomas Nelson. He's a preacher. She's an outlaw. Both are in need of a miracle.
3. ANGEL WITH A BACKHOE, by Deb Kinnard from Desert
Breeze Publishing. A small-town widower and a spunky suburban transplant match wits over a church construction project, finding true love can mix with blueprints and concrete footings.
4. Child Finder: Resurrection series: Child Finder Trilogy, 2nd book, by Mike Angley from Total Recall Publications, Inc. Child Finder: Resurrection…the highly-anticipated sequel to the award-winning debut novel, Child Finder, which Library Journal placed on its 2009 Summer Reads list for Christian fiction!
5. Christmas Peril, by Margaret Daley from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Christmas themed, romantic suspense stories.
6. Cup of Joe, by Teri Wilson from White Rose Publishing. A grieving oman resists the cups of comfort offered by the shy, but handsome, owner of the neighborhood coffee shop.
7. Field of Danger, by Ramona Richards from Love Inspired Suspense. When April Presley can’t remember details of the murder she witnessed, deputy Daniel Rivers must help her recall the event and protect her from the killer determined to silence her.
8. Her Patchwork Family series: The Gabriel Sisters, by Lyn Cote from Love Inspired. In spite of opposition from the rich and influential, can Felicity Gabriel establish a home for children orphaned by the Civil War and heal two wounded hearts?
9. Patterns and Progress series: Michigan historical, book 3, by Amber Stockton from Barbour Publishing. A farmer's daughter would rather turn back the hands of time than accept the fact that advancement in technology could be in God's plan.
10. The Sheriff's Surrender series: #1 of The Ladies' Shooting Club Series, by Susan Page Davis from Barbour Publishing. The men of Fergus aren’t keeping the town safe, so a group of feisty women take matters into their own hands.
11. The Glassblower series: First book in the New Jersey Historical Series, by Laurie Alice Eakes from Barbour Publishing. Colin Grassick moves from Edinburgh, Scotland to Salem county New jersey to take a position as a master glassblower. He loves his work and hopes of bringing his family to America for a better life. But his love for Meg, the daughter of the owner of the glassworks, threatens his job...and then his life.
Happy Reading!
Musings
I’m happy to report that I will send the completed manuscript for Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico, later today, which is the deadline date. Just a few more tweaks.
This is the last post of 2009, the year of the unexpected as per the word I received from God about the year. It certainly contained many and varied unexpecteds. And I praise God for every one of them.
At the top of this blog, I put a quote we read on a sign at a church we passed. “A Baby changes everything.” James laughed.
“That could mean several things.” We know that the church was talking about the coming of our Savior to the earth. That was the single event in history that changed everything that happened since the event. And we’re thankful for His presence in our lives today.
But sometimes the birth of a baby is unexpected and brings unplanned changes in our lives. That doesn’t mean the coming of the baby into the family is a bad thing. The birth of a child brings a hope for the future. A blessing from God.
That’s how I looked at every unexpected that we faced this year. And here we are at the end of the year, thanking God for walking through the highs and the lows with us. He’s the bright and shining star in our lives.
A final note: James and I went to see the movie Blind Side. Even though the local newspaper movie reviewer didn’t give it a very favorable review, the theater was packed. Actually, we had to buy tickets to the next showing after the one we came for, because it was a sell out.
I highly recommend this movie to you. Although it doesn’t gloss over the harder side of life, it brings a message of hope. A very uplifting movie.
See you again in January 2010.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
November 2009
God will bring to completion everything He starts in your life. . .in His time.
Announcements
Three book winners for October are: Linda Wagner – St. Paul, Minnesota, Jackie Smith – Crawfordville, Georgia, and Ingeborg Fagin, Lighthouse Point, Florida. You can choose from Pirate’s Prize, Never Say Never, and A Daughter’s Quest. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/. The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox. I will only post a newsletter once a month.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 12 free books a month on my blog: http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/. Most months we give away more than that. This month I’ll be interviewing these authors:
Ramona Richards – Field of Danger
Tracey Bateman – Thirsty
Margaret Daley – Together for the Holidays
Ashley Ludwig – All of Nothing
Mary Connealy – Cowboy Christmas
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Calendar of Events
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 8, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm) – Two workshops Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
One Imperfect Christmas
By Myra Johnson
ISBN 9781426700705
Abingdon Press
Contemporary
Back Cover Copy:
Only Love Makes a Christmas Perfect
Christmas is the season of miracles, but when blame and guilt keep two people apart, sometimes a miracle needs a helping hand.
Natalie Pearce loves Christmas so much she'd gladly make a year-round celebration--until her mother suffers a massive stroke while taking down the decorations. Natalie's guilt over not being there to help her mom soon builds a wall that separates her from the rest of her family, including her husband Daniel and their teenage daughter. As the next December approaches, the last thing Natalie wants to be reminded of is another Christmas season.
Will her family's tenacious love and an unexpected Christmas gift from her mother help Natalie mend the broken pieces of their lives?
My review:
I love it when I start receiving the Christmas books from authors and publishing companies. I especially wanted to read this debut novel by Myra Johnson. I've known her for years and watched her grow as she honed her writing skills, and I was elated when she made her first sale.
The book is a good debut novel. The Christmas elements of newness and surprises were strong, and contributed to my enjoyment of the story. I did want to shake Natalie several times when she allowed her guilt to keep her from making the right decisions.
I found the young teenage daughter to be very believable. Her angst increased the level of the tension.
I recommend that you add this book to your Christmas reading list.
The Great Christmas Bowl
By Susan May Warren
ISBN 978-1-4143-2678-8
Tyndale
Contemporary Novella
Back Cover Copy:
Christmas is a magical season - except for this year.
Marianne Wallace loves the holidays. From dressing the tree to her traditional Christmas dinner, it's all about creating memories for her family. But when her children begin to leave home--and their traditions--behind, she has one last chance to create a holiday they'll never forget.
Unfortunately, she's soon in over her head, and one impulsive decision leads to a string of events that will change the way her family--even her small Minnesota town--sees the Christmas season.
My Review:
I've loved Susan's writing for years now. This book is no exception.
Full of traditions and unmet expectations, the book takes the reader through a serious transition time in many families. On the way, it brings laughter, tears, and the warm kind of feeling you want from a Christmas book.
You won't want to miss one. Put it on your list right now.
The Unfinished Gift
By Dan Walsh
ISBN 978-0-8007-1924-1
Revell
Historical Christmas
Back Cover Copy:
Can a gift from the past mend a broken heart?
Ian Collins is an old man without his son. Patrick Collins is a young boy without his father. On his Christmas list are only three items. He wants the army to find his father. He wants to leave his grandfather's house. And he wants the dusty wooden soldier in Grandfather's attic--the one his is forbidden to touch.
My Review:
This novel was a surprise to me. A story that touched on the society and mores in the days of World War II. A story with a lot of heart that takes the reader down the road of broken dreams in the lives of two people who were thrown together by circumstances. Pain and pathos paint a detailed portrait of two hearts on a collision course.
Although this is a debut novel, we have a Christmas classic in the makings. A story readers will want to revisit year after year, much as they do with movies like IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE. So move this book to the top of your to-be-read list and grab a box of Kleenex on the way.
Bluegrass Christmas
By Allie Pleiter
ISBN 978-0-373-87556-6
Love Inspired
Contemporary Romance
Back Cover Copy:
An Old-Fashioned Christmas
That's what led new believer Mary Thorpe to start over in quaint Middleburg, Kentucky. As director of the church's Christmas pageant, Mary's job is to bring the townspeople together, to remind them what the season is really about. But everyone is all riled up over one very handsome man: the man daring to run against Middleburg's popular long-standing mayor. Mac MacCarthy wants change. Mary wants things to stay as they are. Is there a happy medium? Both Mac and Mary are in for one very big Christmas surprise.
My Review:
I love Christmas stories. They're usually feel-good stories that make you get into the holiday spirit. And as a trade paperback, BLUEGRASS CHRISTMAS should have fit that mold. It did not.
This wonderful story brought many surprises. The humor should have built to the big ending, but in this book, the author took the reader into a deep, well-crafted subplot that was profound. Without this depth, this story would have been just another fun read. Instead, it was a powerful look behind the facades people use to hide their deepest secrets, hurts, and longings.
You won't want to miss this story. Put it on the top of your to-be-read Christmas stack.
An Amish Christmas
By Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller & Barbara Cameron
ISBN 976-1-59554-821-4
Thomas Nelson
Contemporary Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
December In Paradise - A Time of Hope, Redemption, and New Life
A CHOICE TO FORGIVE by Beth Wiseman
After Daniel disappeared that long-ago Christmas Eve, Lydia built a life with his brother. But now she's a widow and Daniel has reappeared, asking for forgiveness. But can she go back to her normal life with her long-lost love as her neighbor?
A MIRACLE FOR MIRIAM by Kathleen Fuller
Seth is no longer the arrogant young man who shattered Miriam's confidence and broke her heart. But can he convince "plain" Miriam that she is truly beautiful to him?
ONE CHILD by Barbara Cameron
The birth of one child forever changed the world two thousand years ago. On a snowy Christmas night in Lancaster County, another child changes the world for two very different couples.
My Review:
I thoroughly enjoyed these three stories. Although each novella contains a stand-alone story, they are interrelated through the characters and events. I particularly liked the intermingling and contrasting of the Amish life and life of Englischers. The sense of understanding between those involved.
The characters were well-developed for a novella, and the internal and external conflicts really carried the stories along.
I highly recommend this good read.
November ACFW Book Releases
Seven more releases this month from ACFW members.
1. A Silent Pursuit, by Lynette Eason from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Gina Santino has something someone desperately wants. Now, she's on the hunt to find it. Her deceased fiance's best friend, US Ranger, Ian Masterson is her only hope of staying alive while they race to be the first to discover the treasure her fiance left behind.
2. Chasing Shadows, by Terri Reed from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. An heiress turns to her former love, a cop, for help when she fears for her grandmother's life.
3. Close to Home, by Carolyn Aarsen from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. A reunion of old lovers brings up the shadows of past tragedy.
4. Fit To Be Tied, The Sisters of Bethlehem Springs, Book #2, by Robin Lee Hatcher from Zondervan. Who says a woman can't do a man's job?
5. I'm So Sure, A Charmed Life, Book 2, by Jenny B. Jones from Thomas Nelson. Its prom time and someone is trying to sabotage the queen contest. Can Bella solve the mystery in time AND keep it together as her life goes public on a wrestling reality show?
6. The Bartered Bride, by Erica Vetsch from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Tempests rage, in the board room, the ball room, and on treacherous Lake Superior as two hearts set sail on a collision course.
7. Together for the Holidays, Fostered by Love series-book 5, by Margaret Daley from Love Inspired. Can the true meaning of Christmas bring two loners together?
Happy Reading!
Musings
I had two fun booksignings in October. I met some new people, who hopefully will be come faithful readers.
My daughter and great grandson came to the first one at Mardel in Plano. Here's a picture of us.
I signed books with Amanda Cabot. This was the first time I met her face to face, but I wrote an
Announcements
Three book winners for October are: Linda Wagner – St. Paul, Minnesota, Jackie Smith – Crawfordville, Georgia, and Ingeborg Fagin, Lighthouse Point, Florida. You can choose from Pirate’s Prize, Never Say Never, and A Daughter’s Quest. Click on the View Complete Profile link in the right hand column to find a link to my email. Send me your mailing address. Or you can go to my website and click on Contact Me.
Readers, if you want a chance to win one of my free books, please sign my Guest Book on my website - http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/. The winners are chosen from those who do. But remember to check back in the next month’s newsletter to see if you won. You can sign up at the top of the right hand column of this blog for Feedblitz. Then the newsletter will feed into your Inbox. I will only post a newsletter once a month.
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
Want more free books. We also give away a minimum of 12 free books a month on my blog: http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/. Most months we give away more than that. This month I’ll be interviewing these authors:
Ramona Richards – Field of Danger
Tracey Bateman – Thirsty
Margaret Daley – Together for the Holidays
Ashley Ludwig – All of Nothing
Mary Connealy – Cowboy Christmas
Susan Page Davis – White Mountain Brides
Nicole O’Dell – All That Glitters
Siri Mitchell – Love’s Pursuit
Judy Christy – Gone to Green
A. K. Arenz – The Case of the Mystified M. D.
Shirley Connolly – Thorns ~n~ Thistles
E. R. Webb – Gemini’s Cross
Kay Marshall Strom – The Call of Zulina
E. R. Webb – The Pallium Project
Tricia Goyer & Ocieanna Fleiss – Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie, Montana
Elizabeth Wiseman – An Amish Gathering
Joyce Magnin – The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow
Rhonda McKnight – Secrets and Lies
Nicole O’Dell – All That Glitters
Siri Mitchell – Love’s Pursuit
Judy Christy – Gone to Green
A. K. Arenz – The Case of the Mystified M. D.
Shirley Connolly – Thorns ~n~ Thistles
E. R. Webb – Gemini’s Cross
Kay Marshall Strom – The Call of Zulina
E. R. Webb – The Pallium Project
Tricia Goyer & Ocieanna Fleiss – Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie, Montana
Elizabeth Wiseman – An Amish Gathering
Joyce Magnin – The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow
Rhonda McKnight – Secrets and Lies
You can find all kinds of information about my books on my Fan page on Facebook:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts
I’d love for you to come over and become a fan.
Calendar of Events
May 2010 – Release of Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
May 8, 2010 – ACFW The Woodlands (Writers on the Storm) – Two workshops Painting Historicals With Authenticity & Taking Settings to the Next Level
August 28, 2010 – ACFW Shreveport – Taking Settings to the Next Level
October 2, 2010 – ACFW Tulsa (WIN) – Taking Settings to the Next Level – a hands-on workshop
Book Reviews
Notice: In accordance with FTC regulations, I inform you that most of the books I review have been provided by either the author, a publicist, or the publisher. I review only books I have read and all reviews are the honest representation of my opinion of the book.
One Imperfect Christmas
By Myra Johnson
ISBN 9781426700705
Abingdon Press
Contemporary
Back Cover Copy:
Only Love Makes a Christmas Perfect
Christmas is the season of miracles, but when blame and guilt keep two people apart, sometimes a miracle needs a helping hand.
Natalie Pearce loves Christmas so much she'd gladly make a year-round celebration--until her mother suffers a massive stroke while taking down the decorations. Natalie's guilt over not being there to help her mom soon builds a wall that separates her from the rest of her family, including her husband Daniel and their teenage daughter. As the next December approaches, the last thing Natalie wants to be reminded of is another Christmas season.
Will her family's tenacious love and an unexpected Christmas gift from her mother help Natalie mend the broken pieces of their lives?
My review:
I love it when I start receiving the Christmas books from authors and publishing companies. I especially wanted to read this debut novel by Myra Johnson. I've known her for years and watched her grow as she honed her writing skills, and I was elated when she made her first sale.
The book is a good debut novel. The Christmas elements of newness and surprises were strong, and contributed to my enjoyment of the story. I did want to shake Natalie several times when she allowed her guilt to keep her from making the right decisions.
I found the young teenage daughter to be very believable. Her angst increased the level of the tension.
I recommend that you add this book to your Christmas reading list.
The Great Christmas Bowl
By Susan May Warren
ISBN 978-1-4143-2678-8
Tyndale
Contemporary Novella
Back Cover Copy:
Christmas is a magical season - except for this year.
Marianne Wallace loves the holidays. From dressing the tree to her traditional Christmas dinner, it's all about creating memories for her family. But when her children begin to leave home--and their traditions--behind, she has one last chance to create a holiday they'll never forget.
Unfortunately, she's soon in over her head, and one impulsive decision leads to a string of events that will change the way her family--even her small Minnesota town--sees the Christmas season.
My Review:
I've loved Susan's writing for years now. This book is no exception.
Full of traditions and unmet expectations, the book takes the reader through a serious transition time in many families. On the way, it brings laughter, tears, and the warm kind of feeling you want from a Christmas book.
You won't want to miss one. Put it on your list right now.
The Unfinished Gift
By Dan Walsh
ISBN 978-0-8007-1924-1
Revell
Historical Christmas
Back Cover Copy:
Can a gift from the past mend a broken heart?
Ian Collins is an old man without his son. Patrick Collins is a young boy without his father. On his Christmas list are only three items. He wants the army to find his father. He wants to leave his grandfather's house. And he wants the dusty wooden soldier in Grandfather's attic--the one his is forbidden to touch.
My Review:
This novel was a surprise to me. A story that touched on the society and mores in the days of World War II. A story with a lot of heart that takes the reader down the road of broken dreams in the lives of two people who were thrown together by circumstances. Pain and pathos paint a detailed portrait of two hearts on a collision course.
Although this is a debut novel, we have a Christmas classic in the makings. A story readers will want to revisit year after year, much as they do with movies like IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE. So move this book to the top of your to-be-read list and grab a box of Kleenex on the way.
Bluegrass Christmas
By Allie Pleiter
ISBN 978-0-373-87556-6
Love Inspired
Contemporary Romance
Back Cover Copy:
An Old-Fashioned Christmas
That's what led new believer Mary Thorpe to start over in quaint Middleburg, Kentucky. As director of the church's Christmas pageant, Mary's job is to bring the townspeople together, to remind them what the season is really about. But everyone is all riled up over one very handsome man: the man daring to run against Middleburg's popular long-standing mayor. Mac MacCarthy wants change. Mary wants things to stay as they are. Is there a happy medium? Both Mac and Mary are in for one very big Christmas surprise.
My Review:
I love Christmas stories. They're usually feel-good stories that make you get into the holiday spirit. And as a trade paperback, BLUEGRASS CHRISTMAS should have fit that mold. It did not.
This wonderful story brought many surprises. The humor should have built to the big ending, but in this book, the author took the reader into a deep, well-crafted subplot that was profound. Without this depth, this story would have been just another fun read. Instead, it was a powerful look behind the facades people use to hide their deepest secrets, hurts, and longings.
You won't want to miss this story. Put it on the top of your to-be-read Christmas stack.
An Amish Christmas
By Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller & Barbara Cameron
ISBN 976-1-59554-821-4
Thomas Nelson
Contemporary Novella Collection
Back Cover Copy:
December In Paradise - A Time of Hope, Redemption, and New Life
A CHOICE TO FORGIVE by Beth Wiseman
After Daniel disappeared that long-ago Christmas Eve, Lydia built a life with his brother. But now she's a widow and Daniel has reappeared, asking for forgiveness. But can she go back to her normal life with her long-lost love as her neighbor?
A MIRACLE FOR MIRIAM by Kathleen Fuller
Seth is no longer the arrogant young man who shattered Miriam's confidence and broke her heart. But can he convince "plain" Miriam that she is truly beautiful to him?
ONE CHILD by Barbara Cameron
The birth of one child forever changed the world two thousand years ago. On a snowy Christmas night in Lancaster County, another child changes the world for two very different couples.
My Review:
I thoroughly enjoyed these three stories. Although each novella contains a stand-alone story, they are interrelated through the characters and events. I particularly liked the intermingling and contrasting of the Amish life and life of Englischers. The sense of understanding between those involved.
The characters were well-developed for a novella, and the internal and external conflicts really carried the stories along.
I highly recommend this good read.
November ACFW Book Releases
Seven more releases this month from ACFW members.
1. A Silent Pursuit, by Lynette Eason from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Gina Santino has something someone desperately wants. Now, she's on the hunt to find it. Her deceased fiance's best friend, US Ranger, Ian Masterson is her only hope of staying alive while they race to be the first to discover the treasure her fiance left behind.
2. Chasing Shadows, by Terri Reed from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. An heiress turns to her former love, a cop, for help when she fears for her grandmother's life.
3. Close to Home, by Carolyn Aarsen from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. A reunion of old lovers brings up the shadows of past tragedy.
4. Fit To Be Tied, The Sisters of Bethlehem Springs, Book #2, by Robin Lee Hatcher from Zondervan. Who says a woman can't do a man's job?
5. I'm So Sure, A Charmed Life, Book 2, by Jenny B. Jones from Thomas Nelson. Its prom time and someone is trying to sabotage the queen contest. Can Bella solve the mystery in time AND keep it together as her life goes public on a wrestling reality show?
6. The Bartered Bride, by Erica Vetsch from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Tempests rage, in the board room, the ball room, and on treacherous Lake Superior as two hearts set sail on a collision course.
7. Together for the Holidays, Fostered by Love series-book 5, by Margaret Daley from Love Inspired. Can the true meaning of Christmas bring two loners together?
Happy Reading!
Musings
I had two fun booksignings in October. I met some new people, who hopefully will be come faithful readers.
My daughter and great grandson came to the first one at Mardel in Plano. Here's a picture of us.I signed books with Amanda Cabot. This was the first time I met her face to face, but I wrote an
endorsement for her book, Paper Roses.
Then the second booksigning was at Mardel in Hurst, which is a couple of miles from my house. I love this store. It’s a fairly new store, very well designed with lots of stock that is easy to find.
And the store personnel treated us exceptionally well. I’ll be sure to schedule things in this store again.
I signed books with Leanna Ellis. We interacted with a number of people and had a really good time.
Then the second booksigning was at Mardel in Hurst, which is a couple of miles from my house. I love this store. It’s a fairly new store, very well designed with lots of stock that is easy to find.
And the store personnel treated us exceptionally well. I’ll be sure to schedule things in this store again.
I signed books with Leanna Ellis. We interacted with a number of people and had a really good time.
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