CFBA Presents……Miracle in a Dry Season by Sarah Loudin Thomas

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Miracle in a Dry Season

Bethany House Publishers (August 5, 2014)

by

Sarah Loudin ThomasABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sarah Loudin Thomas grew up on a 100-acre farm in French Creek, WV, the seventh generation to live there. Her Christian fiction is set in West Virginia and celebrates the people, the land, and the heritage of Appalachia. Her first novel, Miracle in a Dry Season, releases August 2014 through Bethany House. Sarah is represented by Wendy Lawton of Books & Such Literary Agency.

A graduate of Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC, Sarah once dreamed of being a marine scientist. But her love for words won out and she has spent much of her career in public relations and marketing. She currently oversees fundraising and communications for a Christian children’s home in Black Mountain, NC.

Sarah and her husband Jim live in the mountains of Western North Carolina with Thistle–the canine equivalent to a personal trainer pushing them to hike, run, and throw sticks. Sarah is active in her local church and enjoys cooking and–you guessed it–reading.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In a Drought, It’s the Darkest Cloud

That Brings Hope

It’s 1954 and Perla Long’s arrival in the sleepy town of Wise, West Virginia, was supposed to go unnoticed. She just wants a quiet, safe place for her and her daughter, Sadie, where the mistakes of her past can stay hidden. But then drought comes to Wise, and Perla is pulled into the turmoil of a town desperately in need of a miracle.

Casewell Phillips has resigned himself to life as a bachelor. . .until he meets Perla. She’s everything he’s sought in a woman, but he can’t get past the sense that she’s hiding something. As the drought worsens, Perla’s unique gift divides the town in two, bringing both gratitude and condemnation, and placing the pair in the middle of a storm of anger and forgiveness, fear and faith.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Miracle in a Dry Season, go HERE.

MY THOUGHTS

I loved this book! Perla was so sure she could stay away from attention in her new life, but when things got tough in the town, her abilities to cook and have more food than they needed caused attention, as well as people who were afraid to eat what she cooked. But many would have starved had it not been for Perla. Read this wonderful story about a women who is talked about, and thought her life was ruined because of one mistake she made.

This book was provided by CFBA for me to read and review. This review is mine, my opinion and no one elses!

A Bouquet of Love by Janice Thompson….from Revell

A Bouquet of Love 

by Janice Thompson

She didn’t expect to fall in love–but roses aren’t the only thing blooming on Galveston Island

Cassia Pappas has found herself in a nearly impossible situation. She wants to spend her time immersed in her new job at a Galveston Island floral shop, arranging blooms and brightening occasions with her lovely creations. But her boisterous Greek family–especially her father–has other ideas. They’ve all relocated to Galveston to open up a new family restaurant located on the Strand–directly across the street from iconic pizza place Parma John’s–and they want Cassia’s full participation.

To make matters worse, as Cassia is trying to develop a strong professional relationship with Galveston’s premier wedding coordinator, Bella Neeley, her own father is intent on stealing all of the Rossi family’s faithful customers. Not exactly the best way to get into this former Rossi’s good graces!

Still, at least Alex, that hot delivery guy from the nursery, is always hanging around the flower shop . . .

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

As with her other books, Janice Thompson gives us another wonderful and humorous read that will leave you feeling delightful. Cassia is desperately trying to get away from her fathers hold on her, but it is really more difficult that she would think. As Cassia battles to strike out on her own, I found myself on a most hilarious journey with this adventurous Greek family. Ms. Thompson makes everything fun, from the seriousness of a situation to the sweet romance, I laughed at scene after scene as this family deals with their situations. The question is, when Cassia finds her purpose in life, and finds love, who will be the lucky hot guy?

This is a fantastic light read that I highly recommend! Its fun, funny and very entertaining! I read it in one day, but some may want to spread the fun out over several days. Whatever works for you, I hope you will give A Bouquet of Love a try!  I received this book from Revell Publishers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review.  

 

 

 

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter. An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner. She is the author of the hugely popular Weddings by Bella series and the Backstage Pass series, as well as Picture Perfect, The Icing on the Cake, and The Dream Dress. She lives in Texas. Learn more at http://www.janiceathompson.com.

CFBA Presents A Grand Design by Amber Stockton

This week, the

 

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

 

is introducing

 

A Grand Design

 

Abingdon Press (August 19, 2014)

 

by

 

Amber Stockton

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Words from the author:

Hi, I’m Amber, but my friends call me Tiff, short for Tiffany, my first name. I am in my mid-30’s, married to the love of my life since July 2007, have a daughter and a son, and live in Colorado. Here, I am content to do what I love—write, speak, and offer virtual assistance.

Thanks to the gentle nudging of a fellow author — Tracie Peterson — in 2002, I joined the American Christian Fiction Writers and wouldn’t be published today without them. For those of you who are also fiction writers looking for a wonderful support group, check them out! My very first book, Promises, Promises, sold in December 2006 and released in February 2008. I’ve been going steady ever since.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Alyssa Denham, a single career woman, wins a fun getaway for two on Mackinac Island where her grandmother lives, she gives her carefree best friend a call. Together, they tour the old shops and hidden treasures of the quaint island while helping Alyssa’s grandmother piece together an heirloom quilt. Their quest gains them entrance into the homes of many longtime residents of the island, parts of the city that are otherwise off limits to tourists.
As the quilt’s story takes shape, Alyssa gains amazing insight into her grandmother’s life . . . and attracts the attention of the handsome Scott Whitman, an island resident in charge of hotel transportation. Will memories of her past keep Alyssa from letting go? Or will the quest to piece together the heirloom quilt restore Alyssa’s fractured heart—and bring healing to her entire family?

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Grand Design, go HERE.

Women of Courage by Wanda E. Brunstetter……from Barbour Books

Women of Courage

by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Take a three-thousand mile journey with Amanda Pearson as she leaves the disgrace of a broken engagement and enters the work of a Quaker mission in the western wilds. The trip is fraught with danger, and Amanda is near death before reaching her destination. Among those she meets are an Indian woman who becomes her first convert and a half-Indian trapper who seems to be her biggest critic. But love follows her into the wilderness and will determine the course of her future. You are sure to enjoy this historical romance adventure from New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Women of Courage was a bit different than the Amish fiction that Wanda Brunstetter writes, but Ms. Brunstetter can write anything, and she shows it in this book! She has my attention early in the book, and I enjoyed the adventures I experienced throughout this book. Following Amanda Pearson as she takes the three-thousand mile journey will keep you hopping until the very end. And you will enjoy the historical journey, the heartbreaks and difficulties as well as the happier times. I always enjoy stories with Indians, and I really enjoyed the Indians Amanda comes in contact with, and getting to know them. This book covers a lot of miles and a lot of information, but all in all, it is a really good read.

I received this book from Barbour Books to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times bestselling author, Wanda E. Brunstetter became fascinated with the Amish way of life when she first visited her husband’s Mennonite relatives living in Pennsylvania. Wanda and her husband, Richard, live in Washington State but take every opportunity to visit Amish settlements throughout the States, where they have many Amish friends.

In Perfect Time by Sarah Sundin…..from Revell Publishers

In Perfect Time

by Sarah Sundin

Two hearts are about to learn the rhythm of love

Bold, sophisticated, and coy, Army Air Force flight nurse Lt. Kay Jobson collects hearts wherever she flies, leaving men pining in airfields all across Europe. So how can ruggedly handsome C-47 pilot Lt. Roger Cooper be all but immune to her considerable charms? In fact, he seems to do everything he can to avoid her.

Still, as they cross the skies between Italy and southern France, evacuating the wounded and delivering paratroopers and supplies, every beat of their hearts draws them closer. Can they overcome the fears and misunderstandings of the past in order to take hold of the future?

Sarah Sundin seamlessly weaves together emotion, action, and sweet romance into a tale that transcends time and calls us to believe in the power of love.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I really loved and enjoyed this third book in the Wings of the Nightingale Series by Sarah Sudin. I was excited to read Kay’s story, and I think this is Sarah Sudin’s best book so far! I really like Kay’s bold and determined personality, but yet at the same time, there was a different side of her that I liked even more. She had a difficult time dealing with relationships, and self esteem, and I love the way Ms. Sudin deals with this, the sweet romance, the details, the vivid scenes, and the amazing WWII history all weaves together and makes an amazingly wonderful read. I love reading stories set in the WWI and WWII era, and Sarah Sudin is the lady for writing these historical books! I highly recommend that you pick up a copy of In Perfect Time. But I will say the story is more enjoyable and makes more sense when you read the three books in this series in order!

I received this book from Revell Publishers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part

 

Praise for Sarah Sundin’s Novels

“WWII-era fans won’t be able to put it down.”–Publishers Weekly on With Every Letter

“Excellent research and attention to detail with a flair for romance.”–CBA Retailers+Resources on With Every Letter

“Sundin’s novel features characters living large under emotional and physical stress, while the setting provides invaluable details and insights into the wartime mind-set.”–Booklist, starred review on A Memory Between Us

Sarah Sundin is the author of With Every Letter, On Distant Shores, and the Wings of Glory series. In 2011, A Memory Between Us was a finalist in the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Awards, and Sarah received the Writer of the Year Award at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children. Visit http://www.sarahsundin.com for more information.

CFBA Presents….Sky Zone by Creston Mapes

This week, the

 

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

 

is introducing

 

Sky Zone

 

David C. Cook (June 1, 2014)

 

by

 

Creston Mapes

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Creston has fond memories of his boyhood in Bath, Ohio, where he became enchanted with his future wife, way back in the fourth grade. His father, Bernie, owned and operated The Weathervane Furniture Shop in town. The whole family lived right upstairs in the century-old house known as “The Shop.”

Creston studied journalism at Bowling Green State University, then began his writing career. During the past 30 years, he has worked as a reporter, corporate copywriter, creative director, freelance writer, and author.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A rally for a controversial presidential candidate.

A terrorist threat.

A nightmare of cataclysmic proportions.

Jack and Pamela Crittendon have hit the breaking point. After months out of work as a reporter, Jack is playing Mr. Mom and working part-time at Festival Arena with his survivalist friend Brian Shakespeare. Meanwhile, Pamela has gone back to work full-time while eight months pregnant. Having her recently widowed mother on hand isn’t making matters any easier.
With financial pressures boiling, Jack reports for duty at a rally for controversial presidential candidate Martin Sterling where he expects a mindless night on the job. But when Homeland Security picks up intel about a potential terrorist threat, Jack and Shakespeare are thrust into a life-or-death battle to save their own lives–and the lives of thousands of innocent people.

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

 

MY THOUGHTS
Creston Mapes is at the top of my list for suspense/thriller authors! I love his books, and I loved Sky Zone! It was nice to visit Jack and Pamela Crittendon again, and see what big adventure they were in for this time! And it was an adventure ok, and my head was spinning when I finished reading. It took me a while to get into another book cause I couldn’t get this one out of my head! I LOVE books like this! And I’m not going to reveal anything, you just need to read the book and see for yourself!

I received this book from David Cook and CFBA to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part

 

 

Debt Proof Living by Mary Hunt….from Revell Publishers

Debt Proof Living

by Mary Hunt

“I would have had no idea where to start if I had not read this book.”–Denise J.

“Debt-Proof Living was our salvation, and now it is our daily living reference.”–Kathy W.

“Because of Debt-Proof Living I have completely changed my thinking about money.”–M. J.

“You have changed my life.”–Beth G.

Mortgages, credit card balances, student loans, car loans, and home improvement loans have become a way of life. All that debt is putting not only our present at risk as we live paycheck to paycheck but our futures in jeopardy, as shockingly few of us have enough put away for retirement. But personal financial expert Mary Hunt wants you to know a radical but simple truth–you really can get out of debt and stay out of debt–for the rest of your life.

If you have been struggling to pay the bills, if you feel like you just can’t make your finances work, if you feel like your money situation is getting out of control, you need this book. It can change your life, just as it’s changed the lives of hundreds of thousands of others already.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

As I read Debt Proof Living, I was reminded of many ways that I can help with my finances. Some things in her books is not really new, some are pretty practical, but then Ms. Hunt weaves them all together into one book. She hits on all of the many different kind of debts people may have, and gives loads of neat and helpful tips to help in these suggestions. In following her valuable lessons her in this book, you can be debt free, and if you continue to follow, can stay debt free. But what this book is not, is a quick fix to your finances. It takes work, determination and decisions in order to make it work for you!

I really recommend Mary Hunt’s book to you. I think you will find help in the valuable lessons, tips and tricks she has here. 

I received this book from Revell Publisers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

 

Mary Hunt is an award-winning and bestselling author and the founder and publisher of Debt-Proof Living. Her books have sold more than a million copies, and her daily newspaper column, Everyday Cheapskate, is nationally syndicated and enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of readers. Hunt speaks widely on personal finance and has appeared on shows such as NBC’s TODAY and Dr. Phil. She and her husband live in Colorado. Learn more at http://www.debtproofliving.com.

---

Endorsements

TESTIMONIALS

“It has been four years since I really took to heart all the information in Debt-Proof Living. I am happy to report today that we have paid back over $35,000 of ‘stupid debt’ and are currently saving like crazy for a house. I would have had no idea where to start if I had not read this book. Peace of mind is a great gift!”–Denise J.

“I want to thank you for writing your book, Debt-Proof Living. It was our salvation and now it is our daily living reference. We had a lot of stupid debt (over $40,000) about three years ago. We have now paid off each and every credit-card account. What a weight was lifted from our shoulders. We used this book every step of the way. We are truly reformed credit-card users. I wish a lot of people would read this book–it’s wonderful. We are now using it to learn about investing our money and saving for retirement. We are living proof that it works.”–Kathy W.

“I bought your book to read on a plane. I did not know then how it would change my life in so many ways. Thank you.”–Joan B.

“I picked up Debt-Proof Living from the library. (I know, what a cheapskate!) I wanted to say thanks to you because I can now sleep again at night knowing that there is a way out of our debt-ridden life. I am excited to make changes and not have our life controlled by our money–but rather to be able to control our life and our money.”–Janis N.

“Because of Debt-Proof Living I have completely changed my thinking about money.”–M.J.

“I picked up Debt-Proof Living and started to read. Oh my, I kept thinking, this sounds just like me–I am not the only intelligent person who absolutely stinks at money management! I am pleased to say that I have paid off $12,000 with $6,300 to go. Thanks again for being strong enough to share your story. You have changed my life and from what I can see on your website, countless other’s lives as well.”–Beth G.

CFBA Presents A Heart to Heal by Allie Pleiter

This week, the 

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance 

is introducing 

A Heart to Heal 

Love Inspired (July 15, 2014) 

by 

Allie PleiterABOUT THE AUTHOR:

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

The Courage To Hope.

Guidance counselor Heather Browning is desperate. She needs a mentor to help Simon, a disabled student who is struggling at Gordon Falls High School. Unfortunately, hotshot Max Jones is her only option. Confrontational and cavalier, Max uses his flashy persona to hide the bitterness he’s felt since his life-changing accident. Perpetually cautious, Heather finds Max’s bad-boy bravado as intriguing as it is infuriating. But as Heather and Max work together to build Simon’s self-confidence, they begin to trust each other. Max has never been slow and careful with anything. Can he be gentle with Heather’s heart?

Gordon Falls: Hearts ablaze in a small town.

If you’d like to read the first chapter of A Heart to Heal, go HERE.

 

The Blessings of Friendship Treasury by By Mary Engelbreit

The Blessings of Friendship Treasury 

by By Mary Engelbreit

 

ABOUT THIS BOOK

The Blessings of Friendship, created by New York Times bestselling author and artist Mary Engelbreit, is a playful and poignant treasury of poetry, Bible verses, and quotes that celebrate the joy of friendship. Children will learn from timeless sayings and poems what it means to be a friend – helping, encouraging, listening, sharing with, and loving one another. Colorful and whimsical illustrations bring these words to life, as children learn the value of friendship. Verses from the Bible give us instruction on putting others above ourselves, loving each other, and being kind to one another. This book will make you smile with each turn of the page, remembering old friends and new friends alike.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

When you open a book by Mary Engelbreit, you have opened a masterpiece! And The Blessings of Friendship is such a beautiful book inside and out. The poems, verses and Scripture are so beautifully written, they are truly a blessing and enjoyment to read! This book teaches the valuable lesson of Friendship. One of the short verses in this book is:” A friend is the first one to come in when the whole world has gone out.” And this is so true of everyone, and something each parent should teach their children. And if you have this beautiful Engelbreit book you will be able to read this to your child as well and let them view the pictures. As well as so many other precious verses and poems throughout this book. And the illustrations are the true classy and amazingly beautiful Mary Engelbreit style! And yes I love using the word beautiful when describing this book because, well it is the best way I know to say it!

I highly recommend The Blessings of Friendship by Mary Engelbreit to everyone! I received this book from Book Look Bloggers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

 

Litfuse presents…..The Butterfly and the Violin By Kristy Cambron

The Butterfly and the Violin

ABOUT THIS BOOK

A mysterious painting breathes hope and beauty into the darkest corners of Auschwitz—and the loneliest hearts of Manhattan.

Manhattan art dealer Sera James watched her world crumble at the altar two years ago, and her heart is still fragile. Her desire for distraction reignites a passion for a mysterious portrait she first saw as a young girl—a painting of a young violinist with piercing blue eyes.

In her search for the painting, Sera crosses paths with William Hanover, the grandson of a wealthy California real estate mogul, who may be the key to uncovering the hidden masterpiece. Together, Sera and William slowly unravel the story behind the painting’s subject: Austrian violinist Adele Von Bron.

A darling of the Austrian aristocracy, talented violinist, and daughter to a high-ranking member of the Third Reich, Adele risks everything when she begins smuggling Jews out of Vienna. In a heartbeat, her life of prosperity and privilege dissolves into a world of starvation and barbed wire.

As Sera untangles the secrets behind the painting, she finds beauty in the most unlikely of places: in the grim camps of Auschwitz and in the inner recesses of her own troubled heart.

Learn more and purchase a copy at Kristy’s website.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

This was such a wonderful read! I loved it! Though at times I had a difficult time reading what was happening to Adele and the rest of the prisoners. I felt so bad for Adele because of the circumstances that landed her as prisoner, and then the horrible things she and the ladies with her had to do. And in modern day, Sera was so determined to find the special painting, so would do almost anything, even if it meant flying cross country and meeting a wealthy stranger. The process of finding the painting and the story behind the painting was an amazing story to read. This is a book that will keep your nose in the pages until it is finished. And along with the story of the painting, the two heartwarming romances will warm your heart and stay with you for a long time. This is truly a unique romance story.

I received this book from Litfuse to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

ABOUT THIS AUTHOR

Kristy Cambron has been fascinated with the WWII era since hearing her grandfather’s stories of the war. She holds an art history degree from Indiana University and received the Outstanding Art History Student Award. Kristy writes WWII and Regency era fiction and has placed first in the 2013 NTRWA Great Expectations and 2012 FCRW Beacon contests, and is a 2013 Laurie finalist. Kristy makes her home in Indiana with her husband and three football-loving sons.

When I Fall in Love by Susan May Warren

When I Fall in Love

by Susan May Warren

About this Book

Hawaii was the last place Grace Christiansen ever imagined she’d vacation, much less fall in love. But when her family surprises her with a cooking retreat in paradise, she is pulled—or maybe yanked—away from her predictable, safe life and thrown headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime.

Max Sharpe may make his living on the ice as a pro hockey player, but he feels most at home in the kitchen. Which is why he lives for the three-week culinary vacation he takes each year in Hawaii. Upon being paired with Grace for a cooking competition, Max finds himself drawn to her passion, confidence, and perseverance. But just when Grace dares to dream of a future beyond her hometown, Max pulls away.

Wrestling with personal demons, Max fights against opening his heart to a love he knows he should never hope for. And as his secrets unfold, Grace is torn between the safe path in front of her and what her heart truly desires. If love means sacrificing her ideal happily ever after, Grace’s faith will face its toughest test yet.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I love the Christiansen family and I really enjoyed a visit with them again in Grace’s story. Grace never wanted to leave home, she was perfectly content at home with her cooking ability. Was she ever surprised when here siblings give her a three week culinary vacation to Hawaii. But though at first she thinks she will be alone, she suddenly finds out that her brothers high profile pro hokey player Max will be in Hawaii to watch out for her, which is the last thing Grace wanted.

Susan May Warren has such a way with words, and uses them well when writing awesome books! I love, love this series and this book! I love how she makes the characters seem so very real! I feel as though I know this family personally! And I love the way she introduces Grace and Max to each other. The vivid scenes of Hawaii and the cooking classes, contest, and just everything about the story was just so amazing, I’m still on a high from reading it! I love how Max and Grace are two different personalities, but have so much in common, and Max with his expert side job, or hobby was shocking to me. He just didn’t seem like the type. And I don’t want to keep going on because I will end up telling an important part of the plot, and I don’t want to do that!

If you love romances, this is a must for you! And you want clean, faith base and fun to read added to romance, then you will love When I Fall In Love by Susan May Warren. I received this book from Tyndale House Publishers to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.