Sheila's Books Read

Sheila's bookshelf: read

The Best Intentions
Scotland's Melody
The Secret Society of Salzburg
Secret of the Sonnets
20-40-60-Minute Dinners: Meals to Match the Time You Have
Through the Wilderness: My Journey of Redemption and Healing in the American Wild
Secret Santa Claus Club: A Tool to Help Parents Unwrap the Secret of Santa
Mr. Pudgins
Revenge Never Rests
The Best Mistake
Meriden Park
More Inspirational Stories for Young Women
The Great Tree: A Christmas Fable
To Capture His Heart
The Call of the Sea
Esperance
Livvy and the Enchanted Woodland
Come, Gentle Night
The Bad Boy Theory
Guide To Smart Wedding Planning: What You want to know and everything you haven't thought of yet.


Sheila's favorite books »

2024 Goodreads Reading Challenge

2024 Reading Challenge

2024 Reading Challenge
Sheila has read 4 books toward her goal of 100 books.
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Monday, April 29, 2013

Book Blast and $50 Giveaway for Alexander Drake's Extraordinary Pursuit by Elizabeth Parkinson-Bellows

Alexander Drake new coverAlexander Drake's Extraordinary Pursuit

Meet Alexander Drake, a curious young man living in a drab, oversized mansion with his secretive father. He spent his days playing alone. In the back of his mind he wondered what happened to his mother, and why his father was tight-lipped about the past; but secrets have a way of getting out. It all started with a stay at his grandmother’s cottage. Alexander found strange clues tucked away in his father’s old bedroom. With a mysterious key and several maps in his pack he set off on an innocent search for answers about his family. When he discovered a secret passageway the search took a dramatic turn. He suddenly worried about what was searching for him. Alexander was being hunted by a sorcerer from his father’s past. Answers lead to more questions and the journey of his life. Join Alexander for a thrilling adventure in Azra’s Pith, a place of beauty and magic… but beware—something evil lurks in the shadows.  

Amazon

   

General drake new coverThe Return of General Drake

When Alexander arrived in Verhonia, something went terribly wrong. A dark spell delivered from the mountains of Acadia sent him on a dangerous journey in the middle of the night. As he marched into the mountains, the great city of Verhonia was ambushed and burned to the ground by Roman's army of vicious giant murks. With the safety of the realm in jeopardy, General John William Drake was asked to come back to Azra's Pith. He swore he would never return. But after discovering his son was under a spell and in the grips of a dark sorcerer, he had no choice. Things take a wild turn in the mountains, with runaways, a hungry wolf and a mysterious, young empyrean wizard thrown into the adventure. A tight race against time and evil is in full swing. With faith and a little magic, they just might come out on top.  

Publisher

  alexander tour

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lizzieAuthor Elizabeth Parkinson-Bellows

Being the frizzy-haired tomboy with buck teeth gave me a slight case of shyness as a kid. A colorful imagination meant escape and adventure at the drop of a hat. Over the years I learned that the insecurities I carried around were a waste of time. I still prefer a football game to a manicure any day of the week. That indispensable imagination has found its way into my writing providing a sense of joy and a true purpose.  

Website * Twitter * Facebook

   

Book Blast Giveaway

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Sunday, April 28, 2013

Gift Ideas for Mothers Day: The Art of Motherhood, Covenant Motherhood and Heaven Help Us-A Humorous Look At Womanhood

Mother's Day is in a few weeks. It's time to start looking for that perfect present for your Mom. If she is a reader, you might want to consider one or all of these books published by Covenant books. I have been reading them for the past several weeks and enjoyed them so much. They have made me laugh and cry. I have been reminded of my sacred call of being a Mother. If you are looking for a more serious book or one full of humor, you will find just that in one of these books.


  

 

Product Details

  • Hardcover: 112 pages
  • Publisher: Covenant Communications Inc.; 1st edition (March 1, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1621083373
  • ISBN-13: 978-1621083375

 

 

 

 

   

 Book Description 

 Laugh and cry with thirty of your favorite LDS authors in this richly illustrated book as they share unforgettable true stories of mothers and mothering from their own family relationships. These vivid scenes some lovely, some poignant, some hilarious remind us that no other human experience packs more emotion, learning, anxiety, and satisfaction into every moment of everyday than motherhood. Each piece offers a different perspective on the joys and challenges of this role and illustrates mothering as an art of empathy, endurance, and unparalleled promise. In motherhood, a woman has a tiny glimpse of the powerful feelings experienced by our Heavenly Parents, through it she is magnificently prepared for exaltation with the family she diligently serves.

Some of my favorite stories were by authors Jeffrey Savage, Heather B. Moore, Melanie Jacobson and Sarah Eden. One story will have you laughing and the next will have you crying. I liked how you can pick up the book and read one story in the extra 10 minutes you have before dinner. The beautiful cover also draws you in before you even read one story. 



Product Details

  • Author: Stephanie Dibb Sorensen
  • Paperback: 128 pages
  • Publisher: Covenant Communications Inc.; 1st edition (March 1, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1621083179
  • ISBN-13: 978-1621083177
  • FTC FYI: I received review copies of all of these books in exchange for an honest review.  


 Book Description
Even the most devoted mom can feel overwhelmed and discouraged in the daily trenches of family service. But she can find power in her seemingly endless and ordinary tasks when she sees how they symbolize her covenant relationship with Jesus Christ. In this insightful exploration of domestic life, Stephanie Dibb Sorensen shows how everything a mother does, from folding laundry and washing dishes to refereeing arguments and taking temperatures, is designed to bear record of the Savior s atoning mission. Through scriptural exploration and personal experience, she illustrates how the ongoing chaos of an active home enables a mother to develop the Lords attributes as a creator, teacher, healer, provider, and cleanser thus giving her the opportunity to do for her family, on a smaller scale, what Christ does for the human family.
This book gave me so many reminders about the importance of my job as a Mother. Some times the busy parts of life make us lose focus. This book helped me realize how much Christ can help us as we parent our children daily.

Product Details

  • Author: Kari J. Rich
  • Paperback: 144 pages
  • Publisher: Covenant Communications Inc; 1st edition (February 29, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1608618722
  • ISBN-13: 978-1608618729

Book Description 

LDS women work hard for many people in many places, striving every day to do and be their best, but how often do they get to simply sit back and LOL? In this collection of wry and witty essays, one modern Mormon mom turns ordinary predicaments into awesome opportunities to lighten up and look at life with a laugh. Whether she's busting through red tape to get medical assistance for her injured son, celebrating the birth of her child by losing her lunch on the bathroom floor, or having an off-beat adventure in the residue of Mormon culture found at the D.I., Kari J. Rich uncovers the hilarity that lurks in everyday situations. See her thwart self-pity with self-deprecation as she rediscovers her testimony in a can of tuna, loses touch with her children by joining the PTA, gets chased down by a hawk on her bike, unknowingly turns into her father on Memorial Day, and battles the family hierarchy at the height of the holiday season. There's more than frivolity on these pages, golden nuggets of wisdom do surface on occasion. But don't worry, they pass quickly. Kari's much more concerned with just finding joy in this experience we call womanhood.

 This book had me LOL so much! There are so many stories that I could relate to. If we look at our lives with our children, we can see how many humorous moments there truly are. This book reminds you to laugh along the way as you raise your children.

Here is where you can purchase any of these books!

Kari J. Rich
Best Price $0.01
or Buy New $11.99
Stephanie Dibb Sor...
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or Buy New $11.98
Assorted
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or Buy New $19.99
 

  

Friday, April 26, 2013

David's Song by A.R. Talley-Blog Tour Review and Giveaway

davids tour
 

Book Description: David's Song

Taken from the book cover: Annie only ever really loved two men in her life. One broke her heart, the other married her. Four children and fifteen years later, Annie’s marriage is in jeopardy. Money is tight and her husband questions the very foundation of their relationship. When Annie is Munexpectedly given the opportunity to see the young man who broke her heart — a man who is now a megastar in the music industry — Annie is faced with choices. Choices that will determine what is of more value — a second chance at lost love and unfulfilled dreams or commitment, trust, and love built on years of experience. A psychologically subtle, yet compelling tale about how the instinct and need for love overcomes self-doubt and personal inadequacy. 

Excerpt from David's Song  

“It’s an amazing city,” he said when he saw me look out the window.  I didn’t reply.   “You’re uncomfortable,” he added.  “Why don’t you come and sit down.  We have some hors d’oeurves.”
I turned and looked at him. “What do you want from me tonight?”
          He paused before speaking.  “I hoped we could catch up some and maybe clear the air a little. It’s been a long time,” he said, as if I didn’t know it had been fifteen years.
          I walked over and joined him at the table, unceremoniously dropping into the chair.  He sat down across from me.
          “Okay, go ahead, clear,” I said.
          “I don’t remember you being quite so hostile,” he said with a twinkle.
          “Can’t say that I remember feeling so defensive.”
          “How about if we just talk, enjoy a nice meal, and then I will sufficiently grovel at your feet.”
          “Groveling’s good.  Why don’t we just get it over with now?”  Then I could leave, be done with this nonsense and enjoy the rest of my vacation.  He took a deep breath and laughed lightly.
          “Annie, please, I’m eating humble pie here tonight.  Can we do it my way?” 
          I looked at him across the table without smiling.  I didn’t want to give in no matter how sweetly and sincerely he asked.  I didn’t want to make anything easy for him.
          “I see.  You’re used to getting your own way now, huh?”
          He grinned. “Maybe so.”
          “Why spoil a good dinner?  Let’s go straight to dessert right now,” I said.  “Groveling sounds like a delicious treat.”
          “My way?” he asked again, trying to be charming.
          “If you insist,” I replied, grudgingly.
          He offered me the plate of stuffed mushrooms.  I declined.
          “So how do you like teaching school?” he asked.
.         “I like it well enough.”
          “As I recall, you seemed to think it would suit you well.  Does it?”
          “It’s a job.  I like teaching, but you know every year I get a new group of kids, and I get really attached to them and when June comes around they all . . . leave me.”
          He choked a little on his mushroom.  “Couldn’t let that little dig go, could you?”
          This time I smiled back at him and said, “Whatever do you mean?”  There was no way on earth I was going to let him take me off the defensive.  Not with his charming talk or his smile or even those cursed blue eyes.  This was closure.  Wasn’t that what Carolyn said?   And maybe a little bit of payback, too.
          “So how do you like performing?” I asked in the same condescending tone he had used.
          “I like it well enough,” he said in echo to my earlier response.  I knew he was trying to return my indifference, but he couldn’t hide the smile when he said it.
          “As I recall, you seemed to think it would suit you well,” I said.  “Does it?”
          At this he laughed. “Okay, okay, I surrender.  This is like dancing with a cobra,” he added under his breath.  “I like performing most of the time.  But there are certainly days when I think I should have chosen something different.  I could be some obscure professor at a university teaching music.”
          “Well, that’s not all it’s cracked up to be either.”
          He chuckled.  “This from the girl who wanted to be a teacher.”
          “Not exactly. More from the wife of an academic.  Jeremy teaches at a small college in Ohio.  It has its challenges, believe me, long hours and little pay.  Nothing nearly as fine as this,” I said, glancing around the room.   He chuckled again and leaned toward me in his chair.
          “It’s a prison,” he said quietly.

My Review
 I really liked the novel David's Song.It is a great love story. It is about promises and the reality of love. This story makes you think about what truly makes a good marriage and how a great foundation for a marriage is built. This story flowed so well and the characters were all very likable. I loved main character Annie. She was so normal and true to life.I also couldn't help but like both of the men in Annie's life, David and Jeremy. 

All of us will be tested in life in many ways. This novel shows how working and keeping a marriage strong can be one of those major tests in life. I recommend this book to all women: single or married. This well written novel will not only entertain readers, but give them a lot to think about in their own lives.
 

   
Meet: Author A.R. Talley

April R Talley was born and raised in the Rubber City, Akron, Ohio in 1959. She is the youngest of six children. She attended Brigham Young University for a time, but withdrew to work fulltime for Osmond Productions in Orem, Utah as a member of The Osmond production staff. After a brief stint working in television, she returned to Akron to finish her education. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Media Communications in 1981. April later worked as vice president and part owner of a dance and sportswear boutique. Married in 1982, she is the proud mother of seven children and is deeply involved in volunteer work for her church. April spends her time working on future projects, caring for home and family, and traveling. David’s Song is her debut novel and the first of a trilogy.

Find April at these places:
   

Praise from reviews on Goodreads.com "Not just your typical romance novel" - Tracy Williams "David's Song is great read that leaves you thinking about the story and pondering your own relationships". - Anna Pavkov "Sucked me in from the 1st page" - Jill Walker "Loved this book . . . could not put it down!" - Dana Vieira  

 Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 5/15/13    

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Thursday, April 25, 2013

The Big Debate Literary Loom( Book One) by Carolyn Twede Frank -Review and Giveaway

 
literary loom tour
 

Product Details

  • Paperback: 378 pages
  • Publisher: AugustCorp Press (April 24, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0985251336
  • ISBN-13: 978-0985251338
  • FTC FYI: I received a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review.








 Book Description:The Big Debate (Literary Loom #1)

 A bizarre corpse . . . A strange girl . . . A creepy teacher . . . A cool invention . . . Combine these with an old school and a new student anxious to fit in—and the adventure begins. Fifteen-year-old Josh’s big mouth gets him in trouble at first. But after walking in the shoes of great men of history in the Literary Loom, he uses that mouth to bring down the bad guy and ultimately solve the mystery behind the murder—and the strange girl.  
Excerpt:

Ester climbed up the steps. She was helped to the top of the pile of wood and stood upon it with her back against the stake. Josh gazed up at her, paralyzed. The executioner ascended to her side and wound chains about her frail body, fastening her to the stake. Then he descended to finish his job. There she remained, alone—Joan of Arc, the girl who had so many friends in the days when she was free; the girl who had transformed an army’s hopelessness into courage, along with Josh’s; the girl who had inspired him to follow his heart and not bend to other’s opinions, a heart that now pounded painfully at the speed of light.
 
The mental image of Mr. Ingles in a heap on the floor flashed in Josh’s head. How safe was this contraption, one with artificial intelligence that might not recognize Ester as a traveler? Josh remembered the heat, the cold, the saddle, Louis’s wounds—he felt them all. What would she feel in about one minute? His stomach tensed up at the thought.



My Review
 "But I would like to think that my invention is like a literary loom, weaving a tapestry of images spun by the author but woven into an experience by the reader that delights their mind and warms their soul.” This is what the character, Uncle Reuben, has to say about his invention. I loved this very clever idea found in this new book by Author Carolyn Twede Frank!


The Big Debate is a YA book with a very creative twist on time travel.Having books come to life is the heart of this series. You can actually go experience the book by becoming one of the characters. I really liked the main character, 15 year old Josh. He is trying to fit in at his new school and get's stuck having to do his report with the "strange" girl Ester. This girl and her uncle open a whole new world to Josh. The students at this school are written realistically with teen personalities that ring true. The mystery in this story is compelling. The action in The Big Debate is exciting and it's great to have such wonderful Heroes for you and your teens to cheer for. I can't wait to read more books in this series!



Meet: Author Carolyn Twede Frank

Carolyn has always liked to create. There were always gardens full of beautiful plants in her life, plenty of frilly, homemade dresses for her daughters—and don’t leave out the puppets. Ever since third grade, Carolyn also liked to write. She is the author of Promises, a teen historical fiction novel, and the author/illustrator of two children’s picture books. Carolyn lives in Utah with her husband and teenage daughter, where she runs her puppet-related business in between family time and writing time.
 

Blog Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 5/9/13 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Book Blast and $50 Giveaway for The Big Debate: Literary Loom Book One by Carolyn Twede Frank

 
The Big Debate (Literary Loom #1) 
 A bizarre corpse . . . A strange girl . . . A creepy teacher . . . A cool invention . . . Combine these with an old school and a new student anxious to fit in—and the adventure begins. Fifteen-year-old Josh’s big mouth gets him in trouble at first. But after walking in the shoes of great men of history in the Literary Loom, he uses that mouth to bring down the bad guy and ultimately solve the mystery behind the murder—and the strange girl.  


Book Trailer


Author Carolyn Twede Frank 

Carolyn has always liked to create. There were always gardens full of beautiful plants in her life, plenty of frilly, homemade dresses for her daughters—and don’t leave out the puppets. Ever since third grade, Carolyn also liked to write. She is the author of Promises, a teen historical fiction novel, and the author/illustrator of two children’s picture books. Carolyn lives in Utah with her husband and teenage daughter, where she runs her puppet-related business in between family time and writing time.
 
literary loom tour



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Monday, April 22, 2013

Book Blast and $50 Giveaway for David's Song by A.R. Talley

davids tour
 

Annie only ever really loved two men in her life. One broke her heart, the other married her. Four children and fifteen years later, Annie’s marriage is in jeopardy. Money is tight and her husband questions the very foundation of their relationship. When Annie is unexpectedly given the opportunity to see the young man who broke her heart — a man who is now a megastar in the music industry — Annie is faced with choices. Choices that will determine what is of more value — a second chance at lost love and unfulfilled dreams or commitment, trust, and love built on years of experience. A psychologically subtle, yet compelling tale about how the instinct and need for love overcomes self-doubt and personal inadequacy.  
   
Author A.R. Talley
April R Talley was born and raised in the Rubber City, Akron, Ohio in 1959. She is the youngest of six children. She attended Brigham Young University for a time, but withdrew to work fulltime for Osmond Productions in Orem, Utah as a member of The Osmond production staff. After a brief stint working in television, she returned to Akron to finish her education. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Media Communications in 1981. April later worked as vice president and part owner of a dance and sportswear boutique. Married in 1982, she is the proud mother of seven children and is deeply involved in volunteer work for her church. April spends her time working on future projects, caring for home and family, and traveling. David’s Song is her debut novel and the first of a trilogy.


 Praise from reviews on Goodreads.com "Not just your typical romance novel" - Tracy Williams "David's Song is great read that leaves you thinking about the story and pondering your own relationships". - Anna Pavkov "Sucked me in from the 1st page" - Jill Walker "Loved this book . . . could not put it down!" - Dana Vieira      

Book Blast Giveaway $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 5/12/13   a Rafflecopter giveaway

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Belonging to Heaven by Gale Sears-Blog Tour and Giveaway


Title:Belonging to Heaven
Author: Gale Sears
Publisher: Deseret Book
Published Date: April 2013
Genre: Historical Religious Fiction
ISBN# 978-1-60907-159-2
FTC FYI: I was given a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review.










Book Description:Belonging to Heaven
Descended from the Hawaiian royal line, Jonathan Napela became one of the first—and most influential—converts to the Church in Hawaii. A man of intelligence, social status, and wealth, he used his considerable position to further the gospel in his native land. He developed a lifelong bond of brotherhood with Elder George Q. Cannon, helping to translate the Book of Mormon into Hawaiian and establish a gathering place for the Hawaiian saints in Laie, Oahu. But when his beloved wife, Kitty, was stricken with leprosy, Jonathan made the defining decision of his life. He would leave his life of privilege to become her caretaker and spend the rest of his life on Molokai, the island of lepers. To those who suffered similar heartbreak and banishment, Jonathan’s self-sacrifice became their lifeline. Based on true story, this is an extraordinary novel of a man who chose love in the face of death.


Excerpts from Belonging to Heaven
"She stepped out of the cooking house and moved into the yard. "My heart is full of joy today. My feet and fingers wish to talk of this joy." Slowly she began to sway, her feet moving smoothly over the packed ground, and her gnarled fingers floating through the air, painting pictures with each movement. "I will tell the
story na wai 'eha. The four waters of Maui." She began to chant:

"Fed by the tears of heaven and the hidden pools of"
"the mountains"
"Oh, life-giving waters"
"You flow down to the children of the land."


"Catherine Keliikuaaina Richardson walked beside his son in regal splendor. Her brown hair hung in waves down to her knees. She wore a white holoku in the style that was part missionary and part Hawaiian. Long sleeves covered her arms and a high collar came up to cover her neck.The soft fabric hung loosely from a square yoke that was edged with white ruffles. On her head she wore a wreath of bright yellow 'ilima flowers woven with ferns and the golden tail feathers of the o-o bird. Her golden brown skin glowed in the morning light and the sight of her drove reason from Waaole's head."



My Review
 Once again Gale Sears has written a beautiful story full of heart and rich history. This time the story is about the early Hawaiian Saints, highlighting the life of Jonathan Napela, a son of Hawaiian royalty. We learn about the LDS church's early experience in the 1850's, in the Hawaiian Islands (then known as the Sandwich Islands). I love reading about Elder George Q. Cannon and his mission to the Sandwich Islands.

Reading about the courage of Jonathan, and his excitement about the gospel was inspiring. He faced a lot of opposition from his native people as he listened to and accepted the gospel in his life. There are many moments in this book that will bring you to tears, especially when it comes to the awful disease of leprosy. 

Gale has been blessed with a gift to be able to write such engaging works of historical fiction. I am always swept up in the culture and the lives of the people she writes about. I highly recommend reading Belonging to Heaven, which is a book full of stories of faith, love, compassion and endurance. 





Author Gale Sears
Gale Sears is an award-winning author, known for her historical accuracy and intensive research. Gale received a BA in playwriting from Brigham Young University and a master’s degree in theater arts from the University of Minnesota. She is the author of the bestselling The Silence of God and several other novels, including The Route, Christmas for a Dollar, Autumn Sky, Until the Dawn, and Upon the Mountains. She and her husband, George, are the parents of two children and reside in Salt Lake City, Utah.


Tour Giveaway
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Ends 5/5/13
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Friday, April 19, 2013

Replacing Gentry by Julie N. Ford-Blog Tour Review and $50 Giveaway

Tour Schedule



Product Details

  • Title: Replacing Gentry
  • Author: Julie N. Ford
  • Paperback: 286 pages
  • Publisher: WiDo Publishing (April 9, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1937178315
  • ISBN-13: 978-1937178314
  • FTC FYI: I was given a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review.





Book Description:Replacing Gentry

When Marlie agrees to attend a cadaver ball at Vanderbilt Medical School, she did not expect to actually see any cadavers. Or, that a strange apparition would issue her a chilling message.

Despite the cadaver's warning, Marlie is married a year later to Tennessee State Senator, Daniel Cannon, and living in a plantation-style mansion with two step sons. Add to the mix her growing suspicion that something is amiss with the death of Daniel’s first wife, Gentry; and newlywed Marlie is definitely in over her pretty Yankee head.

What begins as an innocent inquiry into her new husband’s clouded past, ends with Marlie in the midst of a dangerous conspiracy.

A modern twist on the classic Gothic romance novels of Rebecca and Jane Eyre, Replacing Gentry follows Marlie’s precarious journey as she learns the truth about the man she married.

My Review

I already knew that Julie N. Ford knew how to write a great romance, but now I know she also knows how to write a fantastic mystery/suspense novel. From the minute you meet Marlie and she becomes involved with the rich senator, Daniel Cannon,  so quickly you know that something is up. As the pieces unfold in this novel, everyone is suspect. I felt for poor Marlie not knowing who to trust, her husband or another man, Johnny, that she was so attracted to. Even until the very end you still are wondering and trying to piece things together. 

Replacing Gentry is a novel full of lies, betrayal, murder, a cult, conspiracies and of course some romance. The ending is a surprise, but I think I had it figured out several chapters before the end. You will love this new novel by Julie N. Ford. It is now one of my favorites!                                                                                             


Meet:Author Julie N. Ford

Julie N. Ford graduated from San Diego State University with a BA in Political Science and a minor in English Literature. In addition, she has a Masters in Social Work from the University of Alabama. Professionally, she has worked in teaching and as a Marriage & Family Counselor. She is the author of two women’s fiction novels, The Woman He Married and No Holly for Christmas, published in 2011. In addition, she wrote a romance/chick-lit novel, Count Down to Love, also published in 2011. Count Down to Love was a 2011 Whitney Award finalist. Her next novel, Replacing Gentry, is due for release April 9th, 2013.

Currently, she lives in Nashville, TN with her husband, two daughters and one hedgehog.




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Ends 4/30/13

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Thursday, April 18, 2013

Review of Running Home by Cami Checketts

Running Home is now available! To celebrate the release, the first book in the series, Dead Running, is free April 16-20th. Dying to Run and Running Home are only $.99.


Book Description for Running Home
In Cassidy’s battle against human trafficking there are two choices: run or be captured.

Cassidy's humanitarian mission takes an ugly turn when human traffickers attack. Cassidy doesn’t know where to run—home to America, into Jesse’s arms, or any direction she can to escape the traffickers. Innocent families are being ripped apart and Cassidy must decide if she’s brave enough to stop running and join the fight.

My Review:
 The third book in the Dead Running series has Cassidy doing more running-from bad guys! This short book is full of action right from the start. Jessie is back in all of his good looking and wonderful boyfriend glory. I love that he is still around. I feel like Cassidy has come full circle as she insists being involved in battling the human traffickers. They are battling the creepy "Muscle Man" who wants Cassidy. Let me tell you, this book doesn't leave you much time to breathe. Just when they get out of a bad situation, BOOM! They find themselves smack dab in another terrifying encounter with the traffickers. Running Home is a great addition to this action packed, romance mingled, and heart filled story. Cami Checketts delivers once again, and her fans will not be disappointed.

"Cami Checketts has done it again! Running Home is fast-paced and action packed with enough romantic moments to satisfy any romance junkie. It's a wonderful third installment of the Run series and a really fun read.”
Rachael Anderson, Author of The Reluctant Bachelorette 





Cassidy Christensen wants to run.
Captured by the traffickers who killed her mother, Cassidy's only hope is Dr. Tattoo, a man she loves but nobody trusts. When she finally gets a chance to run, someone else she cares about is taken. Running might be her only chance at survival, but Cassidy won't allow another family member to be killed in her place.





Cassidy Christensen is running.
Running from the mercenaries who killed her parents.
Running from a scheming redhead intent on making her life miserable.
Running from painful memories that sabotage her dreams of happiness.
With two very tempting men competing for her attention, she hopes she'll finally have someone to run to, but can she trust either of them? When secrets from her past threaten her family, Cassidy decides to stop running and fight for her future.

"Dead Running was everything I was hoping it would be, captivating, invigorating, and a page turner that I could not, would not, put down! Cami Checketts writes books that will make you think, and make you feel. She captivated me with The Sister Pact, and doesn't lose speed with her newest 'must read', Dead Running." 
Sheila DeChantal, Book Reviewer - Book Journey

"Dead Running can make a claim not many mystery/thrillers can, and that is that it is also really funny. I loved everything about the book. There was murder, romance, family bonds, 5K training, humor, good guys, bad guys, and an ending that left room for a sequel."
Vicki, Book Reviewer - I'd Rather Be Reading At The Beach

Download your free copy of Dead Running here.


Meet the Author:

Cami Checketts is married and the proud mother of four future WWF champions. Sometimes between being a human horse, cleaning up magic potions, and driving boys to lacrosse practice, she gets the chance to write fiction. 

Cami graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Exercise Science. She is a pro bono fitness trainer and shares health and fitness articles at http://fitnessformom.blogspot.com.

Cami and her family live in the beautiful Cache Valley of Northern Utah. During the two months of the year it isn't snowing, she enjoys swimming, hiking, biking, running, and water-skiing. 
 
A portion of the proceeds from Cami's books will be donated to The Child & Family Support Center. For more information on this worthy cause, please go to www.cachecfsc.org






Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Cover Reveal and Giveaway for SHUDDER: Stitch Trilogy Book 2 by Samantha Durante

Shudder:Book 2 in the Stitch Trilogy
I love this cover! It is just as beautiful

and intriguing as the first book cover, Stitch!
 
Book Description: Shudder
It's only been three days, and already everything is different.

Paragon is behind her, but somehow Alessa's life may actually have gotten worse. In a wrenching twist of fate, she traded the safety and companionship of her sister for that of her true love, losing a vital partner she'd counted on for the ordeal ahead. Her comfortable university life is but a distant memory, as she faces the prospect of surviving a bleak winter on the meager remains of a ravaged world. And if she'd thought she'd tasted fear upon seeing a ghost, she was wrong; now she's discovering new depths of terror while being hunted by a deadly virus and a terrifying pack of superhuman creatures thirsting for blood.

And then there are the visions.

The memory-altering "stitch" unlocked something in Alessa's mind, and now she can't shake the constant flood of alien feelings ransacking her emotions. Haunting memories of an old flame are driving a deep and painful rift into her once-secure relationship. And a series of staggering revelations about the treacherous Engineers - and the bone-chilling deceit shrouding her world's sorry history - will soon leave Alessa reeling...

The second installment in the electrifying Stitch Trilogy, Shudder follows Samantha Durante's shocking and innovative debut with a heart-pounding, paranormal-dusted dystopian adventure sure to keep the pages turning.

Add to your Goodreads Here!


Book Description:Stitch (Stitch Trilogy #1)

Her heart races, her muscles coil, and every impulse in Alessa's body screams at her to run... but yet she's powerless to move.

Still struggling to find her footing after the sudden death of her parents, the last thing college freshman Alessa has the strength to deal with is the inexplicable visceral pull drawing her to a handsome ghostly presence. In between grappling with exams and sorority soirees - and disturbing recurring dreams of being captive in a futuristic prison hell - Alessa is determined to unravel the mystery of the apparition who leaves her breathless. But the terrifying secret she uncovers will find her groping desperately through her nightmares for answers.

Because what Alessa hasn't figured out yet is that she's not really a student, the object of her obsession is no ghost, and her sneaking suspicions that something sinister is lurking behind the walls of her university's idyllic campus are only just scratching the surface...

The opening installment in a twist-laden trilogy, Stitch spans the genres of paranormal romance and dystopian sci-fi to explore the challenges of a society in transition, where morality, vision, and pragmatism collide leaving the average citizen to suffer the results.

If you missed it, here is my review of Stitch!

I really liked it a lot! 
 

Meet The Author:
Samantha Durante lives in Westchester County, New York with her husband, Sudeep, and her cat, Gio. Formerly an engineer at Microsoft, Samantha left the world of software in 2010 to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams and a lifelong love of writing. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania's Jerome Fisher Program in Management & Technology, Samantha is currently working full time for her company Medley Media Associates as a freelance business writer and communications consultant. The Stitch Trilogy is her debut series.

Learn More About Samantha here:

Now you have a chance to win a copy of

Shudder by entering on the Rafflecopter form below. 

Enter the Giveaway HERE!!!

Monday, April 15, 2013

Book Blast and $50 Giveaway for Heroes In Training by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams

 
Hades and the Helm of Darkness (Heroes in Training Book 3) The Heroes in Training are entering the Underworld—if Hades can conquer his canine fears, that is. The Underworld usually isn’t really meant to be a fun place—but tell that to Hades! He loves the dark and the stinky smell of sulfur. However, there is one thing that Hades is not a fan of: dogs. And when Zeus and his fellow Olympians encounter Cerberus—a snarling, three-headed dog—Hades must conquer his fears and tame the hound so everyone can continue into the Underworld and deposit their Titan prisoner, Oceanus, back where he belongs! But with magical water that causes forgetfulness, hot beds of lava, and another epic battle with two more Titans standing in their way, will Zeus and his heroes make it out of the Underworld with everyone intact?  

Authors Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams deliver fun, adventures, and a few surprises as ten-year-old Olympians go on a journey of a lifetime to discover their true identities and defeat their Titan enemies. Praise for Heroes in Training "Readers will gobble this down and look for more, make no mythtake." ~ Kirkus “This is a fun read, casting Zeus in the role of relatable kid, and there is a nice balance between his primary goal of survival and his sense of destiny and adventure. . . Share this title, and likely more to come, with those still too young for Percy Jackson’s adventures.” ~ School Library Journal The Series #1 Zeus and the Thunderbolt of Doom #2 Poseidon and the Sea of Fury #3 Hades and the Helm of Darkness #4 Hyperion and the Great Balls of Fire Aladdin Paperbacks (ages 6-9) http://series.simonandschuster.com/Heroes-in-training  


Zeus and the Thunderbolt of Doom (Book 1) After pulling a magical thunderbolt from a stone, ten-year-old Zeus goes on the adventure of a lifetime in this thrilling start to a brand-new series! The terrible Titans--merciless giants who enjoy snacking on humans--have dominated the earth and put the world into chaos. But their rule is about to be put to the test as a group of young Olympians discover their powers and prepare to righteously rule the universe.... Ten-year-old Zeus is mystified (and super-annoyed) by the fact that he keeps getting hit by lightening. Every. Single. Year. He also longs for adventure, as he has never been far from the cave where he grew up. Zeus gets his wish--and a lot more than he bargained for--when he is kidnapped by dangerous, giant Titans! In self-defense, he grabs the first thing he sees--an actual thunderbolt he pulls from a stone that is covered in mysterious markings. Zeus is the only one who can decipher the markings, and sets off on a quest to rescue his youthful fellow Olympians from the evil Cronus. Armed with his trusty thunderbolt (named Bolt, of course), Zeus is on an adventure of a lifetime--and a journey to fulfill his destiny as King of the Gods.  
 

Poseidon and the Sea of Fury (Book 2) A young Poseidon must triumph over aquatic terrors in this Heroes in Training adventure. The merciless Cronus and his Titan buddies are in hot pursuit of Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon, who plan to travel across the treacherous boiling sea in order to save a fellow Olympian. They have a boat, but they also have a problem: Poseidon can’t swim and is terrified of the water (well, really of the creatures that lurk in its depths). The group faces danger after danger as they battle singing sirens, a fishy and ferocious Titan named Oceanus, and people-eating monsters sent by Cronus himself. Can Poseidon overcome his fears and help his fellow heroes escape Cronus and his cronies?
 
Author Suzanne Williams Suzanne Williams is the award-winning author of nearly 40 books for children, from picture books and easy readers to chapter books and middle grade fiction series. A former elementary school librarian, she lives near Seattle. Her picture book Library Lil (illustrated by Steven Kellogg) won the New Mexico children's choice award in 2000 and was on several other state award lists. She is co-author (with Joan Holub) of the popular Goddess Girls series(for ages 8 - 12) and Heroes in Training (ages 6 - 11). Other series include Fairy Blossoms and Princess Power.  
 
Author Joan Holub I graduated from college in Texas with a fine arts degree, and then freelanced as an art director at a graphic design firm for eight years. I dreamed of working in children's books, so I moved to New York City and became associate art director in Scholastic trade books, where I designed books for children and worked with editors and illustrators. It was a great job. I illustrated my first published children's book in 1992 and soon began illustrating full time. I began completing manuscripts and mailing them out to publishers in the early 1990s. In 1996, I sold my first two manuscripts -- Boo Who? A Spooky Lift-the-Flap Book (Scholastic) and Pen Pals (Grosset & Dunlap). Yippee! Now I write full time and have written and/or illustrated over 130 children's books. Creating books that entertain, inform, and interest children (and me) is a fabulous job that I truly love.  
    Book Blast Giveaway $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 4/25/13 a Rafflecopter giveaway