March Featured Book #1

Before sharing my review, here's a bit of information from Amy.

A Word from Amy...

I think most writers would agree that any truly heartfelt story draws at least some inspiration from people and events which have touched their lives. Then Sings My Soul is no exception. I braided three of my passions together to create this story: my work as a registered nurse caring for elderly patients and their families; my grandfather, who was a savant hobby lapidarist and died a month shy of his 95th birthday; and my love for the people of Ukraine (where my ancestors are from). I wanted to reveal the hope that exists in an often forgotten segment of the population — the elderly — while at the same time show how God moves steadfast and unchanging, but also unexpectedly, through our lives. I incorporated these things into the story of 94-year-old Jakob quite like the way a lapidarist goes about his craft, through the ugly, even filthy beginnings of a raw stone, to the cutting and angling of the different facets of a gem, and eventually to the shine and brilliance of the finished piece. I developed quite a crush on Jakob as I wrote, and I think — I hope — readers will find courage in his often painful but ultimately triumphant journey. So many times we cannot see God in the midst of our journeys. As Jakob and his daughter Nel navigate what seem like overwhelming loneliness and endings, they find that God never left them, and that he is working on and through all of our stories, always. (A note to readers: the blue gemstone on the cover is one my grandfather actually faceted! There is an explanation of this very special stone in the back of the book.)

My review...

Nel Stewart returns home after the death of her mother to help care for her father, Jakob, who is suffering from dementia and a broken hip. Nel feels she failed her parents by not being there and plans to remedy that, even if it costs her a relationship with her boyfriend. Jakob is carrying a lifetime of shame and guilt and does not want to be a burden on anyone. He agrees to share his story with Nel after she discovers information regarding his brother and a life in the Ukraine that she knew nothing about. Will learning about her father’s past bring healing and a renewed relationship for them? Told in alternating time periods and viewpoints, Sorrells deftly tackles a difficult to read topic in a raw yet gentle way. Sensory details, lyrical prose, and dramatic scenes wrap the reader as the story unfolds. The horrors associated with Eastern Europe in the early 20^th century are skillfully balanced with present-day hope. The religious aspect does not overwhelm, instead exemplifying people relying on God, His amazing grace, and His unconditional love. This book is one to read in a thoughtful manner (and not just skim) so that the descriptions can be fully appreciated and understood. The characters will stay with you long after the final page.

To Connect with Amy...

Join Amy and her stories in the following locations:

Website: http://amysorrells.wordpress.com
Email: aksorrells@gmail.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amysorrells
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-K-Sorrells/265415650723

Instagram: http://instagram.com/amyksorrells/
Sign up for my newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/EBFPT
Amazon Author Page: http://amazon.com/author.amysorrells
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6999533.Amy_K_Sorrells
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/amysorrells/

Tuesday Tip: Overused Words

Tuesday Tip

When writing, you can do yourself, and your editor, a favor by eliminating some overused words. There are some that are universally overused, and these should be replaced with fresher ideas. Here are some to avoid when possible:

wonderful                                               amazing

it                                                             literally

really                                                      very

exactly                                                    actually

stuff                                                       things

whatever                                                 seriously

bad                                                         fine

suddenly                                                 probably

good                                                       happy

Every writer has key words that they fall back on at times. Look back over your writing and see if you can identify other words to add to this list. In the long run, your readers will thank you. And so will your editor.

February Featured Book #2

Before sharing my review, here's a bit of information from Lisa.

A Word from Lisa...

     In MANHUNT, Eric has been transferred to a team of US Marshals who catch wanted fugitives, which is a far cry from his ‘calling’ as a WITSEC handler. He’s unhappy, and questioning if this can be God’s will for him. Hailey is his partner on the Marshals’ team, a single mom determined to keep her work and home lives separate. It was so much fun to throw all kinds of crazy situations—a devastating flood, an escaped fugitive and an unsolved theft from years ago—at Eric and Hailey, just to keep them guessing about how they were going to get out of it!

     My next LIS book EASY PREY features Jonah Rivers, Eric and Hailey’s team leader. Easy Prey is coming fall 2015!

  

My Review...

MANHUNT by Lisa Phillips: After a felon they are transporting escapes, US Marshals Eric Hanning and Hailey Shelder are on high alert. The duo has butted heads in the past, but this time they must work together. Eric has recently been transferred out of WITSEC, and he is not impressed to be sent to a small town in Oregon to apprehend a fugitive. As a single mother, Hailey has no time for romance. When her 12 year old daughter is almost kidnapped, Eric and Hailey find their bond strengthening. It is likely that the escaped felon is linked to stolen jewels, and that Hailey’s ex-husband is somehow involved. It appears that someone believes Hailey is involved, too. When the felon vows to seek revenge, many people will be placed in danger, including her daughter. Can they trust the members of their own team to help keep them safe?  An escaped fugitive, a flood, dirty cops, an ex-husband, and an unsolved theft combine to create intense action that begins early on in this page turner. Hailey is a strong, determined character. Eric will be familiar for readers of other books in the series. The romance and faith elements do not overwhelm. There is a good buildup of suspense, vivid imagery, and lots of close calls to engage the reader.

To Connect with Lisa...

You can find me at www.authorlisaphillips.com where you can sign up for my mailing list, and find out what’s Coming Next.

You can also find me on Instagram and Twitter @lisaphillipsbks and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LisaPhillipsNataliaGortova

Tuesday Tip: Inspiration

Tuesday Tip

Inspiration can hit when you least expect it, so be sure to carry a notepad (or have a note-taking app on your cell phone). Inspiration could strike while standing in line or sitting in a doctor's office. These are perfect opportunities for you to take note of your environment. However, if you are looking for more ideas on how to find inspiration for your next story, here are a few suggestions:

1. Read: Try branching out from what you typically read. It may inspire you to try something new in your own writing.
2. Conversation: Sometimes you just can't help overhear conversations. You may find an interesting snippet that could be the basis for your next story.
3. Movies:  There are numerous songs and stories based off of a line or scene from a movie.
4. Writing Groups: Brainstorming with other writers could lead to new ideas.
5. Nature: Stepping outside and enjoying God's creation can be extremely inspiring.
6. Dreams: Keep a notebook beside your bed and jot down what you remember.Perhaps these can be worked into your next story.
7. The Dictionary:  Randomly open it up and choose a word.Do some free associating and see what you come up with.
8. Free writing:For five minutes, sit and write about anything and everything that pops into your mind.Don't try to edit it, just let the words flow.
9. Change Your Scenery or Routine:  Something as simple as changing your location can give you a different perspective and possibly fresh ideas.
10. Try Different Creative Outlets: For instance, paint, sing, or dance. Doing something different, yet also creative, could inspire you in a new way.

February Featured Book #1

I was fortunate enough to interview Shelley at the ACFW convention in St. Louis, MO on September 26, 2014. You can read our interview at http://www.rtbookreviews.com/blog/81657/author-qa-shelley-shepard-gray-talks-amish-fiction-self-publishing-and-more

Before sharing my review, here's a bit of information from Shelley.

A Word from Shelley…

     I'm so excited about this year's series, "The Amish Brides of Pinecraft"! Ever since I discovered that Pinecraft was an Amish snowbird and vacation community located in the heart of Sarasota, I yearned to set a series of novels there.

     Last year, after my editor approved the location, my husband and I took a trip down south to Sarasota. We went at the end of February, and I have to admit that I was as anxious to go on a research trip as I was to get warm! Everything had been gray and snowy here in Southern Ohio for months.

     One fun coincidence that happened was that my Amish friends from Sugarcreek just happened to be vacationing in Pinecraft at the same time. My husband and I spent an afternoon with them one day. They were so gracious! They took time to show us all of the sites. Before long, I was completely charmed by the area. The buildings are quaint and lined by sidewalks. Palm trees and flowers were everywhere, many Amish and Mennonites rode red bicycles, and everyone seemed to be in a happy, relaxed frame of mind.

     I couldn't wait to begin writing the series!

     I decided to make up the Orange Blossom Inn and have it serve as the home base for all four books in the series. I created the character of Beverly Overholt. She owns the inn and hosts most of the main characters in the books. After that, I got to work on plots for each book.

     The series begins with The Promise of Palm Grove. In this book, Leona Weaver must decide whether to hold tight to past choices she's made or take a chance on the promise of what could be. I hope everyone enjoys her story as much as I enjoyed writing it.

My Review…

THE PROMISE OF PALM GROVE by Shelley Shepard Gray: Amish friends Leona, Sara, and Mattie arrive at a B&B in Florida for a two-week vacation before Leona’s marriage to Edmund. While Leona believes Edmund to be a “gut” man, she has doubts about spending the rest of her life with him. As a result, their relationship has been strained recently. She is concerned about sharing this revelation with her friends for fear of their reaction. Local Amish man Zachary Kaufman is the opposite of Edmund. After spending a brief period of time with Zachary, Leona remembers the feelings of joy that have been missing in her life. She begins to experience a sense of peace. Will Leona follow her heart or her sense of duty, as she has committed herself to Edmund? This is the first installment in the "Amish Brides of Pinecraft" series. There are a number of intriguing secondary characters who will hopefully be featured in upcoming sequels. The flow is even and doesn’t feel rushed, giving the reader time to really enjoy the characters. Vibrant descriptions and details bring the plot to life in this heartwarming tale of new beginnings and renewal. In fact, the reader may find themselves wanting to book their own trip to Pinecraft.

To Connect with Shelley…

Readers can find me at: http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com/

Or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ShelleyShepardGray

Or follow me on Twitter @ShelleySGray

Tuesday Tip : Write Daily

"On writing, my advice is the same to all. If you want to be a writer,write. Write and write and write. If you stop, start again. Save everything that you write. If you feel blocked, write through it until you feel your creative juices flowing again. Write. Writing is what makes a writer, nothing more and nothing less." — Anne Rice

"Just write a little bit every day. Even if it's only for half an hour —write, write, write." — Madeleine L'Engle

Tuesday Tip

If you want to be a writer, it is important to make writing a daily habit. It should become as natural to you as breathing. Don’t worry about editing, just write. While every attempt may not be a best-selling book, it is important to keep plugging away. Strive for at least one complete page per day, even if it is just daily observations. For some, long-term goals can seem a bit daunting. Stay focused on short-term goals and you will keep your writing, and career, on track. Once you finish a short-term goal, aim for a new one. It is important to continue plugging away, even when the going gets tough and you want to quit. Look for friends or other writers to connect with who will encourage you on a regular basis.

Here are a few tips:

• Make a date with yourself…daily. If needed, write it in your planner or cell phone calendar. Start with a small amount of time at first and build on it throughout the year.
• Have a designated space for writing, whether it’s at your house or the local Starbucks.
• Disconnect during this time. No Facebook updates or tweets. This is your time to write.

January Featured Book #2

January Featured Book #2

Before sharing my review, here's a bit of information from Chris.

A Word from Chris…

Richard Ramsey wrote a screenplay that was made into a film. They had Bible studies created and resources for small groups. But they didn't have a novel, so they asked me to create one. I took the screenplay and the film and with that skeleton wrote around the story, asking questions, filling in information that the film couldn't include. I had a blast doing this. Richard told me early on that he was open to my creative abilities and he let me "sling the cat," as he called it, around the room. So I did. I think the book really adds to the film but doesn't take away from the story.

For example, we are able to go into the backstory of Rose's mother, a relationship she has with a girlfriend, the inner-workings of her home life, and much more. I usually come up with all the plot points and create the "world" of my fiction, but this was a different discipline. I was able to get into someone else's world and play in the world already created.

This book/film is really a response to the whole "50 Shades of Grey" phenomenon. One of the main questions dealt with is romance and sexuality in the context of a Christian marriage. I know that was at the forefront of the sermon series crafted by Pastor Kyle Idleman.

My Review…

THE SONG By Chris Fabry: Jed King grew up in the shadow of his famous father and hopes to follow in his father’s musical footsteps. His father’s mistakes influenced his life. On his deathbed, Jed’s father encouraged his love of music, as well as following God. He wanted Jed to learn from the mistakes he had made and have a better life for himself. Jed struggles to get his career off the ground, so he accepts a gig at a local festival. There, he has a chance meeting with Rose Jordan. His career soars from the song he pens about Rose. It was love at first sight. Rose is a simple, hard-working girl, not equipped for life on the road. Rose wants to stay in her hometown. Wild child Shelby Bale joins Jed on his tour and sets her sights on him, no matter the cost. As fame builds, Jed is spending more and more time away from home and his family. He has a strong faith, but the road and Shelby cause him to lose himself along the way. Will he be able to keep his promises to Rose as temptation builds? There is so much to love about “The Song,” which is written in two parts and based on “The Song of Songs.” Fabry uses the words of Solomon to demonstrate love, as intended by God. The prose is expressive and engaging, and song lyrics are integrated to advance the story. Detailed descriptions make the reader a part of the story. Biblically based marital advice reminds the reader that temptations will arise, but love is a commitment. Heart-wrenching and emotional scenes abound in this tale of fame, fortune, loss, and redemption. 

To Connect with Chris…

Chris Fabry is an award-winning author and radio personality who hosts the daily program Chris Fabry Live! on Moody Radio. He is also heard on Love Worth Finding, Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman, and other radio programs. A 1982 graduate of the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism at Marshall University and a native of West Virginia, Chris and his wife, Andrea, now live in Arizona and are the parents of nine children.

Chris' novels, which include Dogwwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, Not in the Heart, Borders of the Heart, and his latest release, Every Waking Moment, have won three Christy Awards and an ECPA Christian Book Award, but it's his lyrical prose and tales of redemption that keep readers returning for more.

He has also published more than 65 other books, including nonfiction and novels for children and young adults. He co-authored the Left Behind: The Kids series with Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye, as well as the Red Rock Mysteries and The Wormling series with Jerry B. Jenkins. RPM is his latest series for kids and explores the exciting world of NASCAR.

You can find Chris online at http://chrisfabry.com

January Featured Book #1...and a GIVEAWAY!

January Featured Book #1...And a GIVEAWAY!

Before posting my review, here's a bit of background information from Belle. Be sure to comment on this post, as one random person will be chosen to win this book! Please post your comment by January 15th to be entered into the drawing.

A Word from Belle...

One of the most important aspects of my childhood is the fact that I grew up across the street from a public library.  I grew up reading Harlequin romances from a fairly early age.  I was eleven or twelve, I believe. I'm thankful that my parents, who were both in the medical field, never discouraged me from reading romances. It was always my dream to be a writer, although I had to live life a little bit before that dream became a reality.

In 2012 I stumbled upon an opportunity to pitch a manuscript to Love Inspired editor Emily Rodmell on the Harlequin community forums.  I signed up, then racked my brain trying to come up with a compelling story.  In creating that story I knew that I wanted my heroine, Cassidy, to have done something that she just couldn't brush off with a flick of the wrist.  Enter the character of Holly Lynch, the heroine's best friend, who was paralyzed after the reckless driving accident in which Cassidy was the driver.  I remember reading a real-life story where a bride-to-be was paralyzed due to a friend pushing her into a pool.  The woman ended up as a paraplegic due to this rash but innocent act.  The way in which this real-life individual persevered and instantly forgave her friend was so powerful to me.  What would it be like, I wondered, to be the woman who ended up in the wheelchair, with your life changed so dramatically in an instant?  How could a person be so filled with forgiveness after her life was forever altered? The very idea of it fascinated and humbled me.

Writing Holly's story was important for me, not only as a writer, but as a human being.  From the moment Holly came into being I wanted her to have her own happy ending.  Sometimes characters get inside our heads and our hearts until we have to tell their story.  But writing a story featuring a paraplegic comes with responsibility.  In order to portray Holly realistically it was imperative to do research.  There was lots and lots of research about nerve pain, medicine, physical therapy, wheelchairs, driving as a paraplegic, and fertility issues.  Holly is working hard to get her life back after the accident.  At the same time she yearns to find love and wonders if it will ever happen for her.  As a plot device, I thought it was important to have Dylan unaware of Holly's condition until he shows up in Texas.  When her disability is front and center, he has no choice but to merge his idea of Holly with the woman sitting before him in a wheelchair.  Being a paraplegic factors heavily into Holly's journey, but it doesn't define her love story with Dylan. 

Holly has a fighting spirit, a gentle heart, and a forgiving soul.  For readers, I hope they find inspiration in Holly, her struggles, and her triumphs.

My Review...

HEART OF A SOLDIER – Belle Calhoune: Dylan Hart is returning from Afghanistan and is excited to meet, and surprise, the pen pal who helped him get through his deployment. Holly Lynch is surprised to see him on her doorstep, especially as she neglected to tell him that she is in a wheelchair. She even tries to hide her true identity from him, as she regrets keeping the fact that she is a paraplegic secret. He feels hurt that she did not trust him. Holly is a reminder of his past, which he hasn’t dealt with. When he takes a job at her family’s ranch, Holly hopes she can repair their relationship. Will Dylan be able to forgive her, or will he continue to keep his distance? Holly is a strong, inspiring heroine who reminds the reader that while life is not always easy, it is always worthwhile. Her perseverance is encouraging. She faced a number of hurdles in her life, but did not allow them to make her bitter. This heartwarming story will leave the reader both laughing and crying. It is a keep that will stay with you after the final page.

To Connect with Belle...

Belle Calhoune is the best-selling author of contemporary inspirational romance novels.  Belle grew up in a small town in Massachusetts, one of five children. One of the best things about her childhood was growing up across the street from a public library and having a summer house in Cape Cod. Although her mother was a Psychiatrist and her father a Biologist, Belle gravitated toward literature and writing. Married to her college sweetheart, she is raising two lovely daughters in Connecticut. A dog lover, she has one mini poodle and a chocolate lab. Writing for the Love Inspired line is a dream come true. Working at home in her pajamas is one of the best perks of the job.

Where you can find Belle:

http://www.inspyromance.com/

www.bellecalhoune.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Belle-Calhoune/280681912035512

www.twitter.com/bellecalhoune

This is the time that many people choose to make a fresh start, whether it is with your health, relationships, jobs, etc. There is something exciting about the chance to begin again with a clean slate, which is what a new year seems to bring. It is a time to recommit and get encouraged once again.

A handful of select events can often taint one’s perception of the past year. Last year on New Year’s Eve, I read through the items in my Gratitude Jar. It helped me to realize that 2013 wasn’t as bad as I had remembered. This year, I chose to use a Gratitude Journal instead of the jar. Each day I tried to write down at least three positive things from that day. Over the past week I have been reading through the journal. Once again, it has given me a different perspective on the year. While a number of unanticipated events occurred, many of them were positive. Perhaps the biggest one was a giant leap of faith that I took at the beginning of December. I have yet to see exactly where it will lead, but I know that it was the right move to make. Change is always scary, which is why I (and many others) avoid it at all costs. However, change is a necessary part of life. Without it, there would never be any growth. I’m looking forward to the exciting opportunities that I know are awaiting me in 2015. Sure, I know that everything will not be rosy, but my attitude can still be positive. While it is sometimes difficult to remember, I have learned that everything truly happens for a reason (even though it may not be apparent at the moment).

I hope everyone reading this has a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2015. Will you be making any resolutions or goals? I know I will, as usual, and I’m sure I’ll even manage to keep a few of them! Stay tuned to my blog for reviews of fabulous books, editing and writing tips and motivation, and an occasional message from the heart.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

December Book of the Month

My book of the month is a holiday treasure from Ruth Logan Herne. Before posting my review, here's a bit of background information from Ruth.

A Word from Ruth...

I come from a big family. So does my husband. And then we went and had six kids. What were we thinking??? Wouldn't you think we learned from experience? Clearly not! So when I was putting together Max and Tina's romance, Max was adopted into the big, beautiful, close-knit Campbell clan in Kirkwood Lake. A Latino boy, dumped by his mother and then given a great second chance. But Tina has almost no family except for an aunt and cousin who have nothing to do with her. She's lost so much: her family, her business, and some of her self-respect with romance gone bad. Giving Tina her happy ending wasn't easy because she's a stubborn, independent, do-it-myself type, so she needed a hero who could stand his ground. Who better than Max Campbell, a special ops soldier who goes the distance for God… And his country. A man who comes home to face the past in order to help his family face the future: the loss of the father he loves so much.

My Review...

HER HOLIDAY FAMILY by Ruth Logan Herne: Tina Martinelli watches her dreams go up in smoke, right along with her café. She is forced to reevaluate her future plans. She considers starting a new in another town, where she would be away from the nagging reminders of her past. Her childhood crush Max Campbell is in town to begin his life after leaving the military. The Army and death of his best friend changed him. He regrets his time away from his family and friends and wants to start over. He would love for Tina to be part of his future plans. He is praying that God grants him the opportunity to have a do-over. Tina finds it hard to focus on anything other than broken engagements, loss, and burned-out dreams. Can she trust God for direction?

Herne’s characters remind the reader that it is ironic to believe that our plans are better than God’s. In life, one is often given a second chance, though moving on without facing the past is impossible. Faith, family, and forgiveness abound in this charming holiday-themed treasure

To Connect with Ruth...

I love hearing from readers! E-mail me at loganherne@gmail.com, find me on Facebook http://facebook.com/ruthloganherne, stop by my website http://ruthloganherne.com, or hang with me and a bunch of delightful readers and writers in Seekerville www.seekerville.blogspot.com