I am glad I was able to read this book. I am one of those who allows distractions to keep me off focus. Sometimes I think I'm on the right path, and suddenly I'm going in another direction. This book was so inspiring to read. The author did a great job of targeting areas where we can lose our focus such as prayer time and reading the bible. The enemy loves to find ways to keep us away from God. He can use hurt, unforgiveness or simply thinking you don't have time to sit and read a few scriptures. It is time for us to focus and not let distractions keep us from our destiny.
"To fix our eyes on Jesus , we must do more than look for Him. We must look at Him." I loved the example the author gave about Mary. She sat and listened to Jesus as He spoke. Others thought she should be doing chores but her desire was to learn and be in His presence. We must learn to be as focused as Mary was. It didn't matter that there were other things that needed her attention. She took the time to listen to His words and benefited from her time with him. Thank you for writing a book that has encouraged me to be more focused on God and less on the worldly things that try to distract me.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
Friday, February 12, 2016
Thursday, February 11, 2016
With THIS Ring: Mary Connealy Author Interview and Giveaway
With THIS Ring?A Novella Collection of Proposals Gone AwrybyKaren Witemeyer, Mary Connealy,Regina Jennings, and Melissa JagearsGenre: Romance, Humor
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Date of Publication: January 5, 2016
# of pages: 368
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Date of Publication: January 5, 2016
# of pages: 368
Sometimes Love is Found in the Most Unexpected Places!
Love isn’t always a fairy tale, and it doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes the best stories, though, are the ones that are the most unexpected. Join Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagears for novellas that celebrate the power of love to triumph . . . even when circumstances go awry!
Love isn’t always a fairy tale, and it doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes the best stories, though, are the ones that are the most unexpected. Join Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagears for novellas that celebrate the power of love to triumph . . . even when circumstances go awry!
The Husband Maneuver
When ranch foreman Daniel Barrett seems ready to leave her life forever, Marietta Hawkins decides to grab the reins on their relationship. But to have any hope of maneuvering him into a proposal, she has to act fast or risk losing him completely.
When ranch foreman Daniel Barrett seems ready to leave her life forever, Marietta Hawkins decides to grab the reins on their relationship. But to have any hope of maneuvering him into a proposal, she has to act fast or risk losing him completely.
Her Dearly UnintendedJosiah Huckabee just wanted to make sure Katie Ellen Watson was safe, but when the only bridge to her farm is washed out, the two find themselves alone. Alone, that is, until a menacing stranger appears. Maybe by pretending to be newlyweds, they’ll save their reputations–but can pretending to be in love turn into the real thing?
Runaway BrideHired to help Carrie Halsey escape from a dangerous man intent on making her his wife, Big John Conroy never expected the job to interrupt his solitary Texas Ranger life. But now that he’s promised to keep Carrie safe, he discovers he may just want to make a few more promises.
Engaging the CompetitionHarrison Gray and tomboy Charlotte Andrews have been rivals for years. With Charlotte intended for someone else, it seems they’ll never settle their differences until an accident changes things completely. When Charlotte breaks Harrison’s glasses–without which he’s nearly blind–she must help with his teaching position, and working together forces these former adversaries to reconsider everything.
“This quartet of authors consistently write with hilarity, warmth and toe-curling romance. Their individual contributions to this entertaining collection hold true to form. Connealy tips her hat to long-time fans with a grin-inducing reunion and clever word-smithing. Witemeyer’s ingenious story-within-a story adds even more humor and drama to her contribution. Jennings and Jagears perfectly complete the ensemble with witty tales of friendship and breathless kisses.”–RT Book Reviews Top Pick
PRAISE FOR WITH THIS RING:
“This quartet of authors consistently write with hilarity, warmth, and toe-curling romance. Their individual contributions to this entertaining collection hold true to form. Connealy tips her hat to long-time fans with a grin-inducing reunion and clever word-smithing. Witemeyer’s ingenious story-within-a story adds even more humor and drama to her contribution. Jennings and Jagears perfectly complete the ensemble with witty tales of friendship and breathless kisses.”—RT Book Reviews Top Pick
BUY THE BOOK
Author Interview: Mary Connealy
Why did you choose to write in your particular field or genre?
I don’t think I really picked this genre, I think, because of my rural background and husband who’s a cowboy, the genre sort of picked me. I wrote widely before I got my first book published and the cowboy romantic comedies are what hit. I like to think it’s because I can bring some real authenticity to it because of the life I live and my strange ability to be sassy (at least while typing). That all comes through in just the right way.
Where did your love of books/storytelling/reading/writing/etc. come from?
I’ve always loved to read, from a very young age my mom was always taking us to the library. My parents were big readers, too. But writing, a perfect storm of factors led me to start writing, including my baby going to kindergarten (some free time!), getting our first computer and having a friend write a book and, when I expressed, my admiration, she challenged me to write one, too. But whatever STARTED me writing, the fact was that, once I started, I just loved it. It was the most fun I’d ever had—and it still is.
How long have you been writing?
Almost exactly twenty years now. My ‘baby’ is going to be 26 soon. I started when she went to kindergarten in…counting on my fingers….must now remove my socks…I’d say September 1995. I wrote for ten years before I got my first book published and I had TWENTY finished books on my computer when I got my first contract. I got my first contract in…I’d say, September 2005. And my 50th book will release this year in July 2015. It’s a great ride!
Who are some of your favorite authors you feel were influential in your work? What impact have they had on your writing?
I’d say the author most influential to me is Louis L’Amour. He writes the best cowboys EVER. And I’m strongly influenced in my work by his attitudes toward the frontier. I also love his knowledge of the west. In fact, if in my research I find some fact that disagrees with Louis…I go with Louis nearly every time—that’s mainly because most everyone will believe I’m wrong if I don’t match up to him. I’ve actually talked with Louis L’Amour’s son Beau a few times and hosted him on my blog Petticoats and Pistols.
What literary character is most like you?
This took some thinking. I came up with Melanie in Gone with the Wind. I really am a quiet person who spends most of her time alone, when not caring for my family. My characters I write are NOT me, all those feisty lady ranchers. I think they’re how I WISH I could be. Strong, take Charge, In-Your-Face type women. That seems fun, but I suspect in real life, it would get really old to be a person like that, especially for those around you.
If you were a superhero, what would your name be? What costume would you wear?
Introvert Girl. Yoga pants and a sweatshirt with a sky blue cape…so I wouldn’t show up much when I flew around.
Karen Witemeyer: Winner of the HOLT Medallion and the Carol Award and a finalist for the RITA and Christy Award, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer writes historical romance to give the world more happily-ever-afters. Karen makes her home in Texas, with her husband and three children. Visit her website or connect with her on Facebook.
Mary Connealy: Mary Connealy writes “romantic comedies with cowboys” and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has over half a million books sold. She is the author of the popular series Wild at Heart, Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas, and many other books. Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Visit her website or connect with her on Facebook.
Regina Jennings: Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She is the author of At Love’s Biddingand four other novels, and contributed a novella to A Match Made in Texas. Regina has worked at the Mustang News, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, with her husband and four children. Visit her website or connect with her on Facebook.
GIVEAWAY! FOUR COPIES OF THE BOOK!
February 5-18, 2016
(Winners must have US mailing addresses)
Check out these other great blog stops on the tour!
2/5 The Crazy Booksellers – Promo
2/6 Missus Gonzo – Author Interview
2/7 Books and Broomsticks – Promo
2/8 My Book Fix Blog — Review
2/9 The Page Unbound – Author Interview
2/10 Because This is My Life Y’all – Guest Post
2/11 Texas Book-aholic — Promo
2/12 The Librarian Talks – Author Interview
2/13 All for the Love of the Word — Review
2/14 Hall Ways Blog — Review
blog tour services provided by
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
Book review and giveaway: A River Too Deep by Sydney Tooman Betts
About the book:
In the spring of 1817, Alcy Callen and her father visit a step-uncle they have long presumed dead; but instead of enjoying a loving reunion, they are plunged into treachery and deceit. Nothing is as they expected and little is what it seems. Even the man who helps her escape is not the reliable suitor he appears. Alcy is caught between gratitude and fear, unable to avoid her rescuer's attentions or understand the responses they stir. Neither can she tell what sort of man he is or what he intends to do with her in the strange place they are going. Will he keep her for himself or will he sell her to the highest bidder? Of one person only is she certain, but will he come for her before it is too late?
The story is set in 1817 and we are introduced to Alcy and her uncle. They travel to visit her step-uncle . Upon their arrival you could sense an unsettling presence there. The step-uncle was very convincing but so greedy that I wanted to scream at him. He took a shine to Alcy right away, but was it for love or something selfish? When a tragedy strikes in the home Alcy is devastated. She soon realizes that she is not safe staying with her step-uncle.
Alcy makes a daring escape and is rescued by someone she never would have gone with. Before her is a man who she didn't know and is suddenly whisked away to a land she will come to love and call home. I was so engrossed in the story that I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. Can you imagine living in that time period and being taken to an Indian camp ? Alcy comes from a very wealthy background and this was a culture shock to her.
The author writes a very moving story of a young woman who relies on her faith to adapt to her surroundings. I loved how there were scriptures throughout the book and at the end of each chapter. Alcy begins to share her faith with others at the camp and it was so interesting to read how they were so focused on the Word and accepting of it. Alcy realized that this was her calling and she felt safe there.
The beautiful relationship between her and her adopted father , Running Deer, at the camp was so moving I was brought to tears. The interaction between the two was written with complete beauty and love that a father has for his daughter. As a relationship develops between her and Preying Eagle, the author delivers a very realistic look at the Native American culture ."A worthy daughter trusts her father to wisely choose a husband for her and grows to love his choice."
There were so many memorable moments throughout the book that you must pick up a copy and read this story that not only shows unconditional love but of different cultures living together in unity. 'All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose."
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit for an honest review.
You can purchase the book here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00G5KOL8G/
About the author:
Sydney Tooman Betts and her protagonist-husband currently reside in the Shenandoah Valley near the extensive cavern system that inspired the setting for several early chapters of this book. While single, Ms. Betts (B.S. Bible/Missiology, M.Ed) was involved in a variety of cross-cultural adventures in North and Central America. After marrying, she and her husband lived in Europe and the Middle East where he served in various mission-support capacities. Her teaching experiences span preschool to guest lecturing at the graduate level and serving as the Sunday School Superintendent, Children’s Church Director, or Women’s Ministries facilitator in several evangelical denominations.
Before penning her first novel, A River too Deep, she ghost-wrote several stories for an adult literacy program.
The Burning Spirit Warriors Book 3
by D.E.L. Connor Warriors Book 3
by D.E.L. Connor
Genre: YA / Fantasy / Coming of Age
Publisher: Booktrope Publishing
Date of Publication: September 21, 2015
# of pages: 357
In the third book of D.E.L. Connor’s
magical coming of age Spirit Warriors
series, Emmeline and her friends find themselves still reeling from the loss
and pain caused by the evil spirit, machayiwiw- but the danger is far
from over. As Emme, Charlie, Bets,
Ollie, Jack and their beloved Spirit
Animals prepare for the final battle
against the machayiwiw, Emme
struggles with a battle within her
own heart. She longs for the beauty
and softness she feels around Charlie,
but she can’t deny the burning passion
that consumes her with Jack. Will she
finally let Charlie go and give her heart
to Jack? Enthralling and passionate, Spirit Warriors brings the
vibrant American West to life once again and whispers its ancient
secrets of love and friendship.
BUY LINKS
Praise for the books:
"There is something special about a book/series when you feel like you've come
home to family/friends in the first chapter. That is how I feel when I begin
each new book in this series. I find I care more about each character as the series progresses." - Amazon Reviewer
"I have been a huge fan of this series. After the second book I wasn't
exactly sure how this one would develop. Hands down it is the best
book of the series so far." - Goodreads Reviewer
“The Concealing is one of the best books that I have read in a long time…You will
fall head over heels in love with all of the characters and the plot as well in The Concealing.” – The Avid Reader
“I was glued to the book from the moment I began reading it and was sad
when it ended, because it ended. I can very easily visualise this book as a
film, the descriptions are detailed enough to make it a great opportunity for a film. Amazing.” -- Cookie Book Reviews
“A great young adult series along the formulaic values of the “Twilight” series. home to family/friends in the first chapter. That is how I feel when I begin
each new book in this series. I find I care more about each character as the series progresses." - Amazon Reviewer
"I have been a huge fan of this series. After the second book I wasn't
exactly sure how this one would develop. Hands down it is the best
book of the series so far." - Goodreads Reviewer
“The Concealing is one of the best books that I have read in a long time…You will
fall head over heels in love with all of the characters and the plot as well in The Concealing.” – The Avid Reader
“I was glued to the book from the moment I began reading it and was sad
when it ended, because it ended. I can very easily visualise this book as a
film, the descriptions are detailed enough to make it a great opportunity for a film. Amazing.” -- Cookie Book Reviews
Also a wonderful book for adults who want to immerse themselves in a world
full of youth and American Indian heritage.” -- Respect the Books
Enter to win: a signed copy of
The Concealing, Book 1 of the Spirit Warriors Series,
a $25 Amazon Gift Card, and some Swag!
Della Connor (D.E.L. Connor) was born
in South Dakota and raised in Southeastern
Montana where she acquired a keen appreciation for
Western and Native American culture. She moved
to Texas as a young adult and acquired her
honorary Texan status. She became a registered
nurse, a nurse practitioner and eventually earned
her PhD in nursing. She still works as a nurse
educator and as a nurse practitioner.
Her nights and weekends, however, are filled
with her stories and books.
Her first book, Spirit Warriors:The Concealing,
was published by Booktrope Publishing in November of 2014. The second
book in the series Spirit Warriors: The Scarring published on July 21, 2014 and
Spirit Warriors: The Burning rolled out on September 21, 2015. The Spirit
Warriors story evolved from a short story she wrote for a college English class
in the early 1990s. The professor read it, loved it and asked her to stay after
class and discuss it. During this discussion, he told her that a "dark" story like
hers, which was written for older children, would be unmarketable and unsaleable.
The story kept floating around in her mind. Finally, J.K. Rowling, Stephenie Meyers
and others stepped forward with amazing "dark" stories to create a new genre
called Young Adult. The time was finally right for her book. She wrote book 1 in
two weeks. It took another year and a half and about a 150 queries all with a
"not interested" for her to find a publisher.
Check out these other great blog stops on the tour!
2/2 All for the Love of the Word – Guest Post
2/3 A Novel Reality – Promo
2/4 Missus Gonzo – Review
2/5 Books and Broomsticks – Promo
2/6 bookishjessp – Review
2/7 The Page Unbound – Author Interview
2/8 Because This is My Life Y'all – Review
2/9 Texas Book-aholic – Promo
blog tour services provided by
Monday, February 8, 2016
A CHANCE AT LOVE by T.K. CHAPIN
In A CHANCE AT LOVE, Kyle is a pizza delivery guy who makes a delivery one day that changes his life. He delivers pizza to a church where he sees a glimpse of a beautiful girl that he can't take his eyes off of. He finds out her name is Emily and they begin to get to know each other. He does find it strange that they only talk on the phone and never really go anywhere together. Emily really likes Kyke but she has a secret that will change the dynamics of their relationship. After his persistence she finally tells him what the secret is? Can Kyle handle what Emily has told him?
I found the story to be very powerful as the author eloquently takes Kyle on a journey to a growth in his spiritual walk. It was very refreshing to read about a young person who was eager to learn more about God and seek out advice and guidance from people who could help him. I have had a struggle all day trying to find the right words to say about this book. The reason is that is was such an emotional story filled with young people who are finding their way in a world where life can give you detours. It is a hard decision for some to make , but the author did such an amazing job that I hope this book is required reading for those who need to be encouraged, given hope and the true meaning of unconditional love.
Kyle and Emily's story was an great example of young people who fall in love and want to follow their faith as they trust God for answers. The story was not rushed and the author used real life issues to help connect with readers. I finished the book and sat quietly for awhile. I had just read one of the most moving stories of accepting one another in spite of obstacles . . Are we accepting of others if they are handicapped or different? Thank you for writing a story that gave us insight into how a young man made the choice to accept Jesus and ignored those that made fun of him. Through this book you will find hope, acceptance, forgiveness and a true account of experiencing the undeniable love that never fails.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review
I found the story to be very powerful as the author eloquently takes Kyle on a journey to a growth in his spiritual walk. It was very refreshing to read about a young person who was eager to learn more about God and seek out advice and guidance from people who could help him. I have had a struggle all day trying to find the right words to say about this book. The reason is that is was such an emotional story filled with young people who are finding their way in a world where life can give you detours. It is a hard decision for some to make , but the author did such an amazing job that I hope this book is required reading for those who need to be encouraged, given hope and the true meaning of unconditional love.
Kyle and Emily's story was an great example of young people who fall in love and want to follow their faith as they trust God for answers. The story was not rushed and the author used real life issues to help connect with readers. I finished the book and sat quietly for awhile. I had just read one of the most moving stories of accepting one another in spite of obstacles . . Are we accepting of others if they are handicapped or different? Thank you for writing a story that gave us insight into how a young man made the choice to accept Jesus and ignored those that made fun of him. Through this book you will find hope, acceptance, forgiveness and a true account of experiencing the undeniable love that never fails.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review
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