Relz Reviewz

The Captive Heart by Dale Cramer

2012-01-31T23:59:00.000+11:00

Synopsis:~

Bandit troubles intensify as Caleb Bender's family tries to settle into their new life in 1920s Paradise Valley.

When El Pantera kidnaps Rachel and leaves her brother, Aaron, for dead, Jake Weaver and the Mexican native Domingo pursue the bandit leader to his mountain stronghold in a hopeless rescue attempt. Jake and Domingo manage to escape with Rachel, with the bandits hot on their trail. In a desperate attempt to avoid recapture, Domingo puts himself squarely in harm's way, giving Jake and Rachel time to get away. This is not the quiet life Caleb Bender envisioned when he led his family out of Ohio.

What is a father to make of his daughter's obvious affection for a man outside the fold? And how will a pacifist Amishman like Caleb respond to the events that threaten his family and their way of life?

My take:~

Dale Cramer's literary craftsmanship is both beautiful and engaging, taking my breath away in the continuation of Caleb Bender's story, The Captive Heart. Drawing from the personal history of his own family, Dale uses skilful prose to write a masterpiece of forbidden love, family ties, tragedy and, ultimately, hope. Depicting the forbidding Mexican frontier in all its danger and beauty, Dale offers readers insight into the constraints placed on a people deeply committed to pacifism surrounded by men bent on evil and selfish ambition. Caleb's integrity, Miriam's heart and Domingo's honour will make you weep and fill you with joy as they seek to love and protect their families and community the only way they know how. Jacob and Rachel's relationship grows but is challenged by a secret Rachel can't disclose as El Pantera seeks retribution. Suspense, action, danger and romance abound with an ending that will satisfy yet leave you desperate for more. For those like myself who are not usually into Amish tales, don't let the bonnet put you off ~ Dale's storytelling is of the highest calibre and should not be missed!

With thanks to Bethany House for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of Paradise Valley and Summer of Light
Interview with Dale ~ 2007 & 2011
Visit Dale's website and blog
Buy Dale's books at Amazon and Koorong

Character Spotlight ~ Julie Cantrell's Millie, River & Bump

2012-01-30T23:59:00.000+11:00

Debut novelist Julie Cantrell's Into the Free is available now from David C Cook.

Synopsis

Just a girl. The only one strong enough to break the cycle.

In Depression-era Mississippi, Millie Reynolds longs to escape the madness that marks her world. With an abusive father and a "nothing mama," she struggles to find a place where she really belongs.

For answers, Millie turns to the Gypsies who caravan through town each spring. The travelers lead Millie to a key which unlocks generations of shocking family secrets. When tragedy strikes, the mysterious contents of the box give Millie the tools she needs to break her family’s longstanding cycle of madness and abuse.

Through it all, Millie experiences the thrill of first love while fighting to trust the God she believes has abandoned her. With the power of forgiveness, can Millie finally make her way into the free?

Enjoy meeting Millie, River & Bump!

Credit: Julie Cantrell

MILLIE

Brief physical description

Millie Reynolds is a beautiful, dark-skinned southern girl with Choctaw and Scots-Irish roots. Her hair is curly and unruly. She bites her nails and prefers to run through the woods with bare feet. She often wears her hair in braids, and she owns only hand-me-down dresses. She lives in the servants’ quarters (in one of three old slave cabins) on Mr. Sutton’s plantation in Iti Taloa, Mississippi and is considered a “dirt-poor halfbreed” by many of the Depression-era community members.

Actor/famous person

I can’t think of a current actress who looks like Millie, but I wrote her character with an image of my own daughter in mind. My daughter, Emily, also portrays Millie in the book trailer.

Strengths and weaknesses

An old soul, Millie is spunky and smart, patient and practical. Above all else, Millie is a survivor who carefully examines her options in this coming-of-age tale. She thoughtfully observes the people around her, noting how their choices affect their lives. It takes her a while to recognize her own strength and to come to terms with her faith, but with the guidance of several compassionate community members she finds her way.

Quirk (if any)

Millie loves to read, and she dreams of working with horses. Her best friend is a sweet gum tree she names, Sweetie. She spends a lot of time with the trees and with her neighbor, Sloth (think Morgan Freeman). From Sloth, Millie has learned to hunt, fish, and cook. She also has an ability to “listen to the wind,” which means she’s very comfortable in nature and feels deeply connected to her natural environment. She tends to gravitate toward adults and has little in common with children her age.

Credit: Julie Cantrell

Your inspiration for the character

Millie is a combination of every spunky female character I loved as a child, from Pippi Longstocking to Ramona the Pest, but mostly Millie reminds me of my daughter, Emily, who aged with Millie as I edited the book and who is every bit as strong-spirited and probably a lot more feisty.

RIVER

Brief physical description

River is a gorgeous dark-skinned Romani American (“Gypsy”). He has long dark hair and flint black eyes. He wears a chain of coins around his waist and a loose white shirt. He plays the harmonica and quotes literature. He caravans through Iti Taloa with a group of travelers who return every spring to pay homage to their fallen king and queen. Although he is with the group, his mother is dead and his father abandoned him before he was born. He is a loner.

Actor/famous person

Think a young Johnny Depp mixed with a young Steven Strait. Think…temptation.

Strengths and weaknesses

River defies the stereotype of the illiterate “Gypsy” by being a well-read lover of literature. He can charm anyone and has a carefree attitude that makes Millie happy. Everything about him excites her, and he offers her an escape from the painful life she has at home. Despite his many strengths, he has no real education, no plans for a stable career, and no immediate family to offer support.

Quirk (if any)

River can quote verses from literature, which impresses Millie and others. He plays the harmonica and has a sense of humor that brings smiles. He doesn’t take himself too seriously.

Your inspiration for the character

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River was inspired by the guys we’ve all met who make us swoon. Some just emit an energy that draws everyone to them - men, women, young, old…everyone wants to know these guys. When I wrote scenes with River, I thought about Johnny Depp’s character in Chocolat and my son, Adam, who has a wonderful way with words and music and always makes me laugh. Both are charmers in a sweet way. They aren’t aiming to hurt anyone.

BUMP

Brief physical description

Bump is a skinny rodeo veterinarian who is quickly becoming known as a superb horse trainer. He earned his nickname due to his protruding Adam’s apple. He is kind, thoughtful, and patient. His eyes are blue, the color of hydrangeas, which reminds Millie of safety and sweetness. He wears a cowboy hat and boots and has a crooked smile. He is quiet and calm, and he is a good judge of character. Bump comes from a poor family of sharecroppers / tenant farmers in the Mississippi Delta, but they exhibit a true Christian faith and are a strong family unit.

Actor/famous person

Most of the cowboys I’ve met fit this description. One in particular is Tuf Cooper, the youngest participant ever to compete in the National Finals Rodeo.

Strengths and weaknesses

Bump is honest, humble, and hard-working. He’s the kind of guy who cares enough to remove the thorns before he gives Millie a bundle of roses. He’s loyal and protective, and he loves Millie exactly as she is.

Quirk (if any)

Bump is a ‘horse whisperer’ who can break even the toughest horse. He has worked his way through the veterinarian program and is dedicated to his rodeo boss, Mr. Cauy Tucker. He has a thick southern accent and doesn’t always give the first impression that he’s an intelligent, well-educated veterinarian.

Your inspiration for the character

Bump was inspired by all the guys I’ve met who move through the world with a quiet state of grace and goodness. This includes my cousin, David Carter, a fabulous horse whisperer whose faith is unshakable.

Background to the story

Wikipedia Commons

When our family moved to Mississippi, I researched places to take the kids for weekend trips. I came across an old newspaper article from 1915 describing an elaborate funeral for the “Gypsy Queen” Kelly Mitchell. We visited Rose Hill Cemetery in Meridian, Mississippi and saw the graves of Kelly and her husband “King Emil Mitchell” along with other Mitchell descendants. I was fascinated and wanted to know more about the Romani American Travelers who caravanned through the southeastern US during that time period. This single spark of curiosity led to an entire novel in which the travelers are a small thread within the fictional coming-of-age tale about Millie Reynolds.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Visit Julie's website and blog
Buy Julie's book at Amazon or Koorong

Sharon Ewell Foster ~ FamilyFiction Plus

2012-01-29T20:00:00.000+11:00

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing the lovely Sharon Ewell Foster for my article in the January issue of FamilyFiction's digital magazine. I'm thrilled to share my complete interview with Sharon her on my blog ~ enjoy!

Sharon Ewell Foster

What was it about Nat Turner’s story that inspired you to write about him?

Nat Turner was a literate slave preacher who led a revolt in Virginia in 1831 that left more than 50 white people dead. Even 180 years later, groups see him differently. The arguments still rage today: Was Nat Turner a hero or a villain? Did he prophesy the coming Civil War or was he a religious fanatic? There’s a lot here for a writer.

But I remember hearing Nat Turner’s name when I was a child. I saw William Styron’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book, The Confessions of Nat Turner, on my mother’s nightstand. Fast forward to my college years, I had a professor who told me that I should be writing the untold stories; she planted that seed in me.

As I researched, I became convinced that most of what we’ve been taught about Nat Turner isn’t true. Nat Turner, by most accounts was a faithful Christian. Prior to the revolt, he was known as a Christian who didn’t drink, who didn’t steal, who went all over the Tidewater area of Virginia preaching the Word. He could read and write at a time when most of the population of Virginia was illiterate. He was a family man.

His detractors labelled him a monster. But political spin wasn’t invented in 2011, it was happening back then. I needed to know what happened. I spent five years writing and researching this book.

So, here I am. As the nation begins to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, Nat Turner is part of that discussion. As the two events intersect—Turner’s 180th and the Civil War’s 150th, I think it’s important to have a frank conversation about what really happened and how it happened.

The book is Roots meets The Da Vinci Code! LOL!

The Resurrection of Nat Turner, Part I: The Witnesses is Nat’s story through others’ eyes, The Resurrection of Nat Turner, Part 2: The Testimony is the same story through Nat’s eyes. What caused you to choose these two methods to tell his life and mission?

After realizing that the primary historical document, The Confessions of Nat Turner by the attorney Thomas Gray, was a fabrication, I began to search for the real Nat Turner in other places. I learned from local historians that his mother was a slave brought from Ethiopia, that he was supposed to have been friends with his owner, Sallie Francis Moore Travis. In the first book, we learn who Nat Turner was through the eyes of those who knew him—friend and foe, slave and free.

I never intended to writer from Nat Turner’s point of view, but he whispered to me—like melodies talk to composers—insisting that he be heard. There is so much that he knew that no one else knows. One of the first things he spoke to me was, “They were all heroes.” He taught me to see the slaves, all of them, as heroes. Like prisoners of war, their status, what they endured makes them heroes. After that, I was hooked. I told his story, gave his testimony, in Part 2. I suppose, Part 2 is Nat Turner’s day in court.

What do you hope readers take away from The Resurrection of Nat Turner, Part 2: The Testimony?

Publishers Weekly called the book “fast-paced” and “riveting”. That’s gratifying; I do want people to be entertained. But I have been praying for something more. Recently, I have been having conversations online with people from the town where the uprising took place. As you can imagine, even 180 years later, they remain racially polarized.

But the most amazing thing is happening. They are reading The Resurrection of Nat Turner and having the most powerful, insightful, healing conversations with each other. You can feel the honesty and the love, even as they wrestle with this topic. They have welcomed me into the discussions as they are embracing one another. It’s astounding.

That’s what I hope will happen amongst other people and in other communities, across the land, around the world.

How challenging was it to bring Nat’s story, a real historical figure as opposed to a fictional character, to life?

It was very challenging! But, I love what I do. I’m grateful.

My challenge was to make Nat Turner’s story relevant to everyone, to tell the story so that all of us could see ourselves in him and in the people around him. It’s not just an African American story—it’s a story about the price of freedom, about a man struggling against overwhelming odds to protect his family and his community.

It was challenging because the history, as we know it, is a lie. I had to search for the truth—it was hard, but that’s also the fun of it. Once I had so much information, my challenge was to give myself permission to tell a different story than the one that’s been told. I felt such a burden to be true to the facts and to be respectful of the people I wrote about and of the town, it was a challenge to give myself permission to be creative in recreating the story.

But I think the challenges made me a better writer. I think struggle led to the creation of a better book. I love what I do!

How has writing these books impacted your own life?

Researching and writing The Resurrection of Nat Turner has made me even more aware of how precious and important the truth is. It has made me want to search history for other lies that have been told. It has made me realize how easily good, well-meaning people can be led astray by lies. But, most importantly, I am reassured by the enduring strength and power of faith, hope, and love.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Visit Sharon's website
Buy Sharon's books at Amazon or Koorong

Character Spotlight ~ Goyer & Yorkey's Colette Perriard

2012-01-26T23:59:00.000+11:00

Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey return with their second WWII suspense novel, Chasing Mona Lisa, from Revell.

Synopsis

It is August 1944 and Paris is on the cusp of liberation. As the soldiers of the Third Reich flee the Allied advance, they ravage the country, stealing countless pieces of art. Reichsmarschall Hermann Goering will stop at nothing to claim the most valuable one of all, the Mona Lisa, as a post-war bargaining chip to get him to South America. Can Swiss OSS agents Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler rescue DaVinci's masterpiece before it falls into German hands?

With nonstop action, Chasing Mona Lisa is sure to get readers' adrenaline pumping as they join the chase to save the most famous painting in the world. From war-ravaged Paris to a posh country chateau, the race is on--and the runners are playing for keeps.

Enjoy meeting Colette!

Brief physical description

Colette Perriard is petite with light brown hair. She dresses in fashionable pastel colors in her role as a curator for the greatest museum in the world, the Louvre in Paris.

Actor/famous person

Natalie Portman with light brown hair.

Strengths and weaknesses

Colette knows the world of fine art. She views herself as the protector of the Mona Lisa during the time of the Nazi occupation of France. This is both a strength and a weakness. She is fearful that those she cares most will be hurt by the Nazis, and she sometimes is forced to make compromises to protect those she loves.

Your inspiration for the character

Our inspiration for Colette came from the real curators who risked their lives to save priceless art from falling into the hands of people like Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring, who either purchased or confiscated 1,800 pieces of famous art during the war. Colette did her part to walk a tightrope with these ruthless occupiers. We read about these women (and men) in books such as The Rape of Europa.

Background to the story

Colette is a curator at the Louvre Museum during the German occupation of Paris. She is romantically involved with Bernard Rousseau, yet she isn't fully aware of his involvement with the French Resistance. As Paris is being liberated August 1944, the Germans attempt to escape with as much priceless art as possible—including the Mona Lisa. The duty falls on Colette to make sure that doesn't happen, and she receives the help from two Swiss OSS agents, Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Review of The Swiss Courier
Visit Tricia's website
Visit Mike's website
Interview with Tricia
Buy Tricia's books at Amazon or Koorong

Where Wildflowers Bloom by Ann Shorey

2012-01-25T22:21:00.000+11:00

Synopsis:~

The War Between the States stole a father and brother from Faith Lindberg-- as well as Royal Baxter, the man she wanted to marry. With only her grandfather left, she dreams of leaving Noble Springs, Missouri, and traveling west to the Oregon Territory to start a new life, away from the memories that haunt her. But first she must convince her grandfather to sell the family's mercantile and leave a town their family has called home for generations.

When Royal Baxter suddenly returns to town, Faith allows herself to hope that her dreams might come true. Does he truly love her? Or could another man claim her heart? Will she find that following her dreams may not mean leaving home after all?

My take:~

An Ann Shorey story always provides readers with a sweet romance,interesting characters and a fascinating historical setting and Where Wildflowers Bloom is no exception. Set in the aftermath of the Civil War, Ann's characters' lives epitomise the struggles of the day. Faith Lindberg is trying to maintain her grandfather's store against community opposition, after losing her father and brother in the war, Curt Saxon fights demons in his mind following the trauma of the battlefield and Royal Baxter is desperate to make a future for himself. Steeped in the historical era, Ann deals with issues that we face today, from post traumatic stress disorder to age related dementia. I enjoyed Ann's character development, especially Curt and Rosemary, along with understanding the prejudice against a woman wanting to take on a commercial responsibility. I had a moment of frustration due to the ease with which a transfer of affection occurs - it's a little bugbear of mine that pops up often in romance novels. That said, Where Wildflowers Bloom delivers everything readers of traditional, sweet romances desire.

Available January, 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

With thanks to Revell for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of The Edge of Light, The Promise of Morning & The Dawn of a Dream
Character spotlight on Ellie & Matthew
Character spotlight on Molly
Visit Ann's website and blog
Buy Ann's book at Amazon or Koorong

Ten Plagues by Mary Nealy

2012-01-24T22:20:00.000+11:00

Synopsis:~

Join the breakneck chase through Chicago for a murderous maniac. As the victims begin piling up, detective Keren Collins’s spiritual discernment is on high alert. Will she capture the killer before another body floats to the surface?

Ex-cop, now mission pastor Paul Morris has seen his share of tragedy, but nothing prepared him to be a murderer’s messenger boy. Will his old ruthless cop personality take over, leading him to the brink of self-destruction? Can Keren and Paul catch the killer before the corpse count reaches a perfect ten?

My take:~

Mary Nealy, better known as Mary Connealy, writer of historical romantic comedies, shows she is no one trick pony with her excellent romantic suspense, Ten Plagues. Combining action and suspense with romance and the supernatural, Mary held my attention from the dramatic first chapter to the last page. Keren and Paul are solid characters and their burgeoning attraction and snappy dialogue add some levity amidst the ruthlessness of a serial killer's murders. Paul's battle between the compassionate and sacrificial life he leads as a pastor and the hardened cop instincts that kick in when danger strikes, adds a fascinating element to the story. Meaningful faith elements and a few unexpected twists and turns are also included. I certainly hope this isn't the last we hear of Mary Nealy and her suspenseful writing.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Visit Mary's blog
Buy Mary's books from Amazon or Koorong

Character Spotlight ~ Don Reid's Cal, Harlan & Buddy

2012-01-23T22:10:00.000+11:00

Don Reid of The Statler Brothers, returns with his second Mt. Jefferson story, The Mulligans of Mt. Jefferson from David C Cook.

Synopsis

Cal, Harlan, and Buddy grow up together in a small Virginia town in the years before the second World War. United by age, proximity, and temperament, they get into—and out of—all the trouble that boys manage to find. They even earn a nickname from a local restaurateur who gives the boys their first jobs and plenty of friendly advice. "Uncle" Vic calls them the Mulligans, because they always seem to find a way through a thicket of trouble—family problems, girls, college, war—to success. Cal and Harlan and Buddy have been blessed with second chances.

Now it’s 1959, and police lieutenant Buddy receives an early-morning phone call: his friend Harlan, a store owner, has been shot in a break-in. Cal, now a preacher, meets Buddy at the hospital, and together, as professionals and as friends, they begin to unravel what might have happened to Harlan.

Enjoy meeting the lads!

There are three main characters whose lives are followed and developed in The Mulligans of Mt. Jefferson.

Buddy Briggs

He’s solidly built and just under six-feet tall. He’s a police officer and as hard as he has to be but is more comfortable in his roles as husband to Amanda and daddy to Shirley Ann. You’ll get to know him well in his relationship with his two lifelong friends as he shows his loyalty and caring nature. Casting him would be simple for me: Kyle Chandler of “Friday Night Lights” fame. My inspiration for Buddy was no one person in my life. Just a good-hearted, small town man who wants to do the right thing and live the good and quiet life with his family.

Harlan Stone

He was the very handsome and near-rich boy we’ve all known from our high school days. The jock who got all the girls and was even liked by all the guys. His daddy had means and owned a local jewelry store. He was carefree and spent most of his days just having a good time until something happened in his life that made him take responsibility. I can honestly say I have no person in mind for casting. If it were truly the 1950s decade as it is in the book, he would be a perfect fit for Tony Curtis. (And I’ve probably just dated myself severely with that reference!)

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Cal Vaxter

He rounds out the trio of pals with a strange turn in life. He goes from being the annoying little kid in town to being a minister in the town. He’s taller than his two friends and is of a quieter nature. He’s not more serious as you might expect, but he has some elements in his marriage that makes him very reflective. I see him as rather non-descript physically but a definite and strong presence and personality.

Your inspiration for the character

The inspiration would be a composite of friends I grew up with and you grew up with, too. They are a mesh of traits and quirks and morals that come together as three guys who love and look out for one another.

Background to the story

The background is simply friendship and second chances. If you don’t have good friends, it might be because you’re not a good friend. This book is about how we look at the people we care for and if we would do what’s best for them in any situation.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on JD & Karli Wickham from One Lane Bridge
Visit Don's website
Buy Don's books at Amazon or Koorong

Coming soon from Thomas Nelson ~ YA Fiction

2012-01-22T17:41:00.000+11:00

Crazy Dangerous by Andrew Klavan

"You probably want to hear about Jennifer and the demons and how I played chicken with a freight train and—oh yeah—the weird murder and how I found out about it—you're definitely going to want to hear about that. But first, I have to tell you about the stupidest thing I ever did . . ."

Sam Hopkins is bored with his status as a preacher's kid. So when a group of guys notorious for being in trouble offers him friendship, he accepts. Before long, he has several new skills—including hot-wiring cars.

At school, there's an eccentric loner named Jennifer. When Sam defends her from being bullied, she begins to seek him out as her only friend. Her ramblings often seem illogical . . . but then start to contain grains of truth. One leads Sam to discover that one of his new friends has been killed. And then she tells him, "I'm looking for the devil." Sam doesn't know what that means, but he knows it's a matter of life and death that he figure it out.

Everyone else thinks Jennifer is suffering from schizophrenia. But Sam is starting to wonder if there could be something prophetic in her words. Discovering the truth is going to be both crazy and dangerous.

May, 2012

A Charmed Life by Jenny B Jones

The popular YA series in a single volume!

So Not Happening – New York's social darling just woke up in a nightmare: Oklahoma. Bella had it all. Then her father decided to trade her mother in for a newer model. When her mom falls in love with a man she met on the Internet, Bella has to move in with her new family in Truman, Oklahoma. On a farm no less! How can a girl go on when her charmed life is gone and God appears to be giving her the total smack down?

I’m So Sure – Think you're having a rough week? Bella's stepdad just signed the family up for a reality TV show. As if having a camera crew following her around isn't bad enough, Bella discovers a conspiracy against the prom queen candidates. Denying allegations of a love triangle, working to solve the prom queen mystery, and trying to keep her cool on national television finally motivate Bella to start talking—and listening—to God more.

So Over My Head – Newly single, stalked by a killer, and in desperate need of some chic clown shoes—Bella is one skinny mocha frapp away from total meltdown. When the carnival arrives in

Truman, Bella's reporter instincts tell her the bright lights hide more than they reveal. Her suspicions are confirmed when one of the stars is murdered. Is God sending her a message in all of this madness? With a murderer on the loose and her boyfriend's ex on the prowl, this undercover clown has never had more to juggle.

May, 2012

Angel Eyes by Shannon Dittemore

Once you’ve seen, you can’t unsee. Everything changes when you’ve looked at the world through . . .

Angel Eyes

Brielle’s a ballerina who went to the city to chase her dreams and found tragedy instead. She’s come home to shabby little Stratus, Oregon, to live with her grief and her guilt . . . and the incredible, numbing cold she can’t seem to shake.

Jake’s the new guy at school. The boy next door with burning hands and an unbelievable gift that targets him for corruption.

Something more than fate has brought them together. An evil bigger than both of them lurks in the shadows nearby, hiding in plain sight. Two angels stand guard, unsure what’s going to happen. And a beauty brighter than either Brielle or Jake has ever seen is calling them to join the battle in a realm where all human choices start.

A realm that only angels and demons—and Brielle—can perceive.

May, 2012

Starring Me by Krista McGee

Kara McKormick knows she's auditioning for a new teen show. What she doesn't know is that she's also auditioning for Chad Beacon's heart.

After appearing on the reality show The Book of Love, Kara McKormick—a spunky New Yorker with a big family and an even bigger personality—is chosen to audition for a spot on a new teen network's premiere show.

She loves the screen test process . . . but has no idea it's a character test as well. The girls auditioning don't know that current teen heartthrob Chad Beacon has already been tapped to star in the show. His parents want his co-star to be a Christian since he'll be spending so much time with her on the set.

Meanwhile, her best friend Addy and the flighty house mother are praying that Kara will accept the role that God has cast for her—to be a follower of Christ. When tragedy strikes her family, it looks like Kara will have to give up her chance at stardom to be with those she loves . . . but looks can be deceiving.

July, 2012

Character Spotlight ~ L.K. Malone's Hadlay Mivana

2012-01-21T23:30:00.000+11:00

L K Malone returns with a YA allegorical/fantasy novel, available from Kregel.

Synopsis

In the mythical city of N'de lives thirteen-year-old Hadlay and her people, the Ramash. Scorned and abused by the unloving and absent Emperor, the Ramash are poor people, placed second to the ruling class of the Oresed.

Young but bold, Hadlay rages against the injustice in her city. When she is chosen for the honor of serving the Prince in the Tower, she hopes to find a way to right the wrong . . . but soon discovers that things are worse than she believed.

Brief physical description

Hadlay Mivana is thirteen summers old. She is small for her age and she has sky-blue eyes, freckles, and an unruly mop of curly blonde hair, which she usually keeps tightly braided. And she doesn't mind getting dirty, so she usually is!

Strengths and weaknesses

Hadlay is very courageous. Unfortunately, she is not always wise. The combination is not usually a good thing.

Quirk (if any)

Hadlay is a magnet for mishaps.

Your inspiration for the character

When I was working out the basic premise of the story, I knew I wanted to set it in a city based on Babel/Babylon, with that city's mythology and culture, and a little Book of Enoch thrown into the mix. I wanted the central character to be a complete misfit, and the minute I thought that, Hadlay just started to fall together. Whatever you might expect to see in a hero from ancient Mesopotamia, Hadlay is just the opposite. She's a complete anomaly, physically, mentally, and socially.

Background to the story

Hadlay's people, the Ramash, were conquered many ages ago by the Oresed, led by the mysterious Emperor Shungallu and his fearsome giant warriors called Nafal. In the emperor's extended absence, the city Turris has been governed by malicious, magical rulers who terrorize the populace and oppress the Ramash in the emperor's name. When the emperor and his son return to Turris, promising equality and justice, the changes aren't all for the better.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Buy LK Malone's books at Amazon or Koorong

Character Spotlight ~ Roman Troyer & Julia Lapp

2012-01-19T23:30:00.000+11:00

Suzanne Woods Fisher begins her Stoney Ridge Seasons series with The Keeper, now available from Revell Books.

Synopsis

Julia Lapp has planned on marrying Paul Fisher since she was a girl. Now twenty-one, she looks forward to their wedding with giddy anticipation. When Paul tells her he wants to postpone the wedding--again--she knows who is to blame. Perpetual bachelor and spreader of cold feet, Roman Troyer, the Bee Man.

Roamin' Roman travels through the Amish communities of Ohio and Pennsylvania with his hives full of bees, renting them out to farmers in need of pollinators. He relishes his nomadic life, which keeps him from thinking about all he has lost. He especially enjoys bringing his bees to Stoney Ridge each year. But with Julia on a mission to punish him for inspiring Paul's cold feet, the Lapp farm is looking decidedly less pleasant. Can Julia secure the future she's always dreamed of? Or does God have something else in mind?

Enjoy meeting the mysterious Roman and feisty Julia!

Brief physical description

Roman Troyer—the Bee Man. Rome is 25, dashingly handsome (and well aware of that fact). One interesting characteristic: he has gray hair.

Julia Lapp—The oldest daughter in the Lapp family, Julia is 21, attractive—and she knows it, too.

Actor/famous person

Think: Richard Gere—young and handsome with a headful of salt and pepper colored hair.

Think: Sandra Bullock in “The Proposal”

Strengths and weaknesses

Roman Troyer is a mysterious character. He is a migratory beekeeper and roams from community to community with his bees. Although he is thoroughly Amish, he is a solitary person and intensely private.

Julia Lapp takes herself seriously. She has to! Quite a lot of responsibility rests on her shoulders. She takes comfort in her plans for the future--until the Bee Man arrives in town and messes everything up.

Quirk (if any)

Rome: Women are drawn to Rome—except for Julia Lapp. He can’t understand why she isn’t crazy about him.

Julia: She doesn’t mean to be funny, but she is.

Credit: stock.xchang

Your inspiration for the character

On my very first visit to Lancaster County, I came across an Amish farm with a red wind mill. I stopped in, visited with the family, and a friendship developed. In the back of my mind, I always wanted to create a story about an Amish family that doesn’t quite fit your perception of the Amish. I mean, what kind of family has a red wind mill? Interested? Meet them in “The Keeper.”

Background to the story

Roman Troyer is an Amish migratory bee keeper who guards his bees—and his heart—carefully.

Julia Lapp has life planned out—she is going to marry Paul Fisher, he will move to Windmill Farm and fill the gaps that her father’s illness has created. Along comes the Bee Man—who convinces Paul to postpone the wedding. Julia is livid! And determined to woo Paul back.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of The Choice and The Waiting
Visit Suzanne's website and blog
Buy Suzanne's books at Amazon or Koorong

Getting to know Tricia Goyer

2012-01-18T23:30:00.000+11:00

Prolific author, Tricia Goyer, has just released her second novel written with Mike Yorkey, Chasing Mona Lisa. It is a delight to have Tricia share about her book and her life.

Enjoy :)

Tricia Goyer

What appeals to you most about writing fiction?

What I love about fiction most is taking true stories or interesting facts and weaving them together to create a story that readers would fall in love with. I feel as I'm bringing history to life and sharing it with new generations. It's amazing that I get to be a part of that!

Why Christian fiction?

Because Jesus means everything to me I can't imagine writing and having my worldview NOT come through.

Name five things you can’t live without

Jesus, my family, my friends, my computer, social media. LOL.

Favourite book ~ Favourite movie ~ Favourite TV show

The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom, 13 Going on 30, Pickers

Where is the most interesting place you have been?

Prague, Czech Republic

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A 3rd Grade School Teacher

What are two things people might be surprised to know about you?

I want to adopt 3-4 more kids. (God willing!)

I met my biological father for the first time when I was 28 years old.

Chasing Mona Lisa

Synopsis

It is August 1944 and Paris is on the cusp of liberation. As the soldiers of the Third Reich flee the Allied advance, they ravage the country, stealing countless pieces of art. Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring will stop at nothing to claim the most valuable one of all, the Mona Lisa, as a post-war bargaining chip to get him to South America. Can Swiss OSS agents Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler rescue DaVinci's masterpiece before it falls into German hands?

What was your favourite scene to write in (title of current novel) or share your favourite paragraph

I loved the part where the Parisians celebrate the liberation of Paris!

He approached her and opened his arms to her, and then pulled her into a hold. They lost themselves in the throng of revelers. Gabi’s eyes locked with Eric’s, and she leaned into his hand supporting the small of her back. The movement felt safe and secure and made her hope that she would always feel this way in days to come. When he drew her close, she lay her head on his right shoulder. The tension that had bottled up all day evaporated in his embrace.

She closed her eyes and let the soaring music take her to a tranquil place. A thousand flutters—like ripples on the Seine—stirred as he gently led her around the littered cobblestones of the courtyard. It seemed right that she was here, sharing this moment with Eric and those around her. Never before had people opened their hearts as the Parisians did that afternoon. Streets flooded with joy, they were intoxicated by unsuppressed freedom, free to hug and kiss anyone within arm’s length.

Which character did you connect to the most?

I loved Colette! I appreciated her conflict of struggling to protect the priceless art and trying to protect the people around her too.

Which character was the most difficult to write?

Bernard. The resistance was so complicated. I'm glad that Mike had a great handle on the politics of the time!

What’s next in your writing pipeline?

I'm currently working on a novel with my friend Ocieanna Fleiss. It's our third Love Finds You novel we've done together. The title is, “Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska!” After that I'm working on three more Amish novels and a parenting book!

Thanks for sharing, Tricia :)

Relz Reviewz Extras
Review of The Swiss Courier
Visit Tricia's website
Visit Mike's website
Listen to an interview with Tricia & Mike
Buy Tricia's books at Amazon or Koorong

The Accidental Bride by Denise Hunter

2012-01-17T23:30:00.000+11:00

Synopsis:~

Shay Brandenberger is a survivor. She's lived through a crazy childhood, a failed marriage, and single parenthood-with her confidence intact.But not for long. Because when Shay participates in her town's Founder's Day wedding reenactment, she finds herself face-to-face with the one man who takes her breath away and leaves her weak in the knees: Travis McCoy.

Travis is back in town after years way on the rodeo circuit. His one regret in life is breaking Shay's heart when they were high-school sweethearts. He's determined to get it right this time. So when their Founder's Day "marriage" is accidentally made official, Travis seizes the day. Can Shay put aside her pride to let Travis help her, or will their accidental marriage be dissolved before it can begin?

My take:~

Denise Hunter returns with her second Big Sky romance, The Accidental Bride, another contemporary romance filled with small town life, languishing love and fearful hearts. With her signature romantic tension and interesting characterisation, this is a tender story that does however, stretch the imagination. Shay and Travis are thrown together after fourteen years of bitter separation as a result of Travis' youthful fears. Shay's financial hardship is the reason given for her committing to a marriage she doesn't want. The circumstances of their marriage and the resolution of years of heartache seemed too convenient and happened too rapidly for my liking. That said, Shay and Travis are likeable characters and Denise has a real gift for writing romance that has me coming back every time. The Accidental Bride is an enjoyable story that many readers will adore, so I find it hard to say that it didn't meet the high expectation I have set for this talented writer.

With thanks to Thomas Nelson for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of Driftwood Lane, Seaside Letters, Surrender Bay, The Convenient Groom and Sweetwater Gap
Character spotlight on Jake
Character spotlight on Sabrina & Tucker (Seaside Letters)
Interview with Denise
Visit Denise's website and blog
Buy Denise's books at Amazon or Koorong

Character Spotlight ~ Ginger Garrett's Samson

2012-01-16T23:30:00.000+11:00

Ginger Garrett tackles the infamous and heroic Samson in her latest Biblical fiction novel, Desired. Enjoy this look at Samson!

Brief physical description

My description of Samson has caused a bit of a stir. If he was a full-grown man who had never cut his hair or beard, he must have been a strange sight! We are so used to thinking of Samson as a good-looking, clean-cut guy from the movies, but I don’t think the biblical story supports that. I imagine he was probably a regular-sized guy, with decent muscles since they had very active lifestyles in ancient Israel. His hair was long, perhaps down to the floor. He looked like a lost member of ZZ Top. :-)

But, in light of this, my heart broke for him as a child, being so different from the other boys. He must have felt a lot of pressure, too, knowing that an angel had predicted his birth, and promised that he would be the one to begin the great deliverance of his people.

I also wrote the story from his mother’s point of view. She was never given a name in the biblical story. Yet she raised the most notorious prodigal son in the history of the world. She was an older Jewish mother, and I imagined her to act and speak like Olympia Dukakis. That’s not a perfect match, but an endearing one, to me.

Actor/famous person

If I could pick an actor to play him, it would be Russell Crowe. But I would hate to cover up that handsome face! Samson was a strange sight, to be sure, but he taught us that physical appearance is not the heart of our story. Neither is our own strength. We don’t have to be strong, beautiful or popular for God to use us. We don’t have to be perfect, either. It’s not about us in any way. Our stories are about what God can do through us, despite us.

Strengths and weaknesses

Samson was burdened by his calling. He was given to rages and depression. But he hated injustice and loved a broken woman. His mother endured years of confusion and disillusionment. She was prone to question God repeatedly, and to nag Samson into doing what she thought was right.

Your inspiration for the character

I’m raising a son myself, so it was easy to imagine the heartache of Samson’s mother. So much is at stake in their lives, and when they make poor decisions, it just kills us. And for Samson, it was not hard to imagine how he felt, especially when you consider that most of all, he felt different.

Background to the story

DESIRED: The Untold Story of Samson& Delilah

Three women loved him. Two betrayed him. One fulfilled his destiny.

Desired tells the story of the legendary strongman through the eyes of the three most important women in his life. The fiercely loving Jewish mother who nags him toward greatness…and rebellion. The impoverished Philistine girl, Amara, who becomes Samson’s bride. And the emotionally damaged seductress—the legendary Delilah—who becomes the instrument of his destruction and the key to his tragic triumph. Poetic, meticulously researched, and jaw-droppingly honest, Desired ultimately celebrates the God of Israel’s ability to work mightily despite our human weakness.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Review of In the Shadow of Lions
Visit Ginger's website and blog
Buy Ginger's books at Amazon or Koorong

Back with Bourne by Lisa T Bergren

2012-01-15T21:59:00.002+11:00

After a few weeks break, I'm glad to be back blogging again and looking forward to another fabulous year of books to be read, reviewed and spotlighted!
I hope you'll join me and share your thoughts as we journey through 2012 together :)

For now, let me share with you some great news from Lisa T Bergren. As you know, I adored her River of Time series and encourage everyone to get their hands on the wonderfully entertaining Waterfall, Cascade and Torrent. Lisa is hard at work writing a further full length sequel, Tributary, pending the further outcome of sales of the first three stories so get out there and buy them! The great news is that in the meantime Lisa is going to self publish an e-novella that picks up Gabi, Lia, Marcello, Luca, and the enigmatic Lord Greco’s story immediately following Torrent, called Bourne.

I love that Lisa has been able to keep the cover art in the same theme as the rest of the series and while I see Eduardo Verastagui as Greco, the model on the cover is not too bad ;-)

Lisa has some FAQs about Bourne and more on her blog, so check it out here!

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character interviews with Luca, Lia, Gabi and Marcello
Reviews of Waterfall & Cascade
Character spotlight on Gabi, Marcello, Luca & Lia
Character spotlight on Lord Greco
View the trailer for Cascade
Visit Lisa's author website and her travel website
Buy Lisa's books at Amazon or Koorong

Holiday Fun

2012-01-15T21:07:00.000+11:00

Handkerchief Beach, Narooma

Rock pools

Sisters at Guerilla Bay

Sugar Glider visitor

Bargain hunter!

Montague Island in the distance

The beach to ourselves! Check out the private home on the hill!

The view

Firethorn by Ronie Kendig

2012-01-01T22:49:00.000+11:00

Synopsis:~

Former Marine and current Nightshade team member Griffin “Legend” Riddell is comfortable. So comfortable he never sees the set up that lands him in a maximum security prison, charged with murder. How can he prove his innocence behind bars?

Covert operative Kazi Faron is tasked with reassembling Nightshade—the black ops team someone dissected. Breaking Griffin out of a federal penitentiary amid explosive confusion may turn out to be her last assignment. What will it take to convince the fugitive that whoever set him up has also dissected the Nightshade team? As Kazi and Griffin race to rescue the others and discover the traitor, love begins to awaken in their hearts.

Can a covert operative and the felon she’s freed overcome their mutual distrust long enough to save Nightshade? Will anything prepare them for who—or what is coming?

My endorsement:~

Firethorn, the stunning conclusion to Ronie Kendig's adrenaline infused Discarded Heroes series packs all the expected emotional punch and accelerated action of a Kendig thriller, and then some! The Nightshade team has been shattered and only one person can bring them back together, or so she thinks. Kazi and Griffin are complex characters, formidable as individuals and dynamite as they learn to work together seeking answers, justice and just a little retribution. Prepare to be energised, impassioned and engaged, heart and mind, by this stellar tale of betrayal, forgiveness, sacrifice and hope. Firethorn's explosive conclusion is gutsy writing at its best and absolute proof of Ronie's commitment to authentic storytelling. Her ability to tap into her characters' psyches and penchant for palpable heart pumping action scenes are unparalleled in today's romantic suspense genre ~ I only wish there were more to come in this unmissable series.

With thanks to the author and Barbour for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of Wolfsbane, Digitalis and Nightshade
Meet the team: Max ~ Colton ~ Canyon ~ Griffin ~ Azzan ~ John ~ Marshall
Meet the women: Sydney ~ Piper ~ Dani ~ Kazi
Character spotlights: Max & Syd ~ Colton & Piper ~ Canyon & Dani
Visit Ronie's website and blog
Visit Ronie's Discarded Heroes website
Buy Ronie's books at Amazon or Koorong

Get ready for some fun posts about this series, and giveaways, coming soon to Relz Reviewz

Blogging Hiatus

2012-01-01T22:43:00.002+11:00

Well, I'm off on my annual blogging hiatus so won't be posting for a couple of weeks. The break is so very needed but I'm going to miss being around here but hope to see you all again in a couple of weeks when I hope to be refreshed and brimming with enthusiasm :)

I'll be doing one more post before I head off into the sunset, so to speak, because I can't leave you without posting my endorsement of the final book in my favourite series of all time! Look for an fabulous giveaway of this series on my return :)

Praying you have a peaceful and purposeful beginning to 2012!

Love and hugs,

Rel xo xo

Relz Reviewz Top 10 Reads of 2011

2011-12-31T05:30:00.000+11:00

The challenge of compiling a Top 10 list is often overwhelming and frustrating as choosing 10 usually means excluding fantastic reads! Still, I enjoy looking back over my year's reading and selecting books that may be literary masterpieces, books that struck a chord within me or simply one out of the box. Here's my list (in no particular order), sneaking in a few extras by way of a series nomination, and some others at the end of my post that I was loath not to include in some way!

I'd love you to post the link to your Top 10 or just let me know your choices in the comments section.

PS. If any of you actually count you will see I have 11 - I only just noticed as I was about to post ~ LOL! Well, it's my list so I guess having 11 is okay :)

There You'll Find Me by Jenny B Jones

"Jenny B Jones' writing is the Lindt chocolate of Young Adult novels. Smooth, satisfying and memorable, always leaving you much to savour. There You'll Find Me is a captivating and deeply moving story.."

Digitalis & Wolfsbane by Ronie Kendig

Digitalis: "With the relentless action of The Bourne Identity, the electrifying chemistry of Speed and the emotional punch of A Few Good Men, Digitalis is a stomach clenching, all consuming thrill ride as the Nightshade Black Ops team is attacked on mission and at home."
Wolfsbane: "Supremely talented, Ronie Kendig's military thrillers are imprinted with an unparalleled combination of grit, courage, emotional intelligence and spiritual depth."

Indelible by Kristen Heitzmann

"Delving deep into their psyches, Indelible is character driven and darkly mysterious glimpse into the heart of a gifted woman and man driven to succeed beyond all measure."

Pompeii by T L Higley

"Pompeii: City on Fire will grab you by the throat, shake you around a little and eventually let go, leaving you enlivened and deeply satisfied. A consummate storyteller, TL Higley's talent shines in this story of adventure, danger, intrigue and love."

Freedom's Stand by Jeanette Windle

"Unflinchingly honest in her portrayal of political corruption and human rights abuses, the dilemmas and compromises faced by aid agencies and the positive and negative elements of Western intervention, Jeanette sheds light on the plight of the Afghan people in a confronting and challenging manner."

Waterfall, Cascade & Torrent by Lisa T Bergren

Waterfall: "With more sword fights than The Princess Bride, more swoon worthy heroes than Twilight and adventure and intrigue in abundance, Lisa Tawn Bergren has penned a fabulous story in Waterfall."

Cascade: "The strength of Lisa's storytelling is in the intensity she generates in action scenes as Gabi confronts peril and pain, in the burgeoning romance as Marcello stakes his claim and in the conflict that battles in Gabi's soul as she faces a decision that may alter the future of her family forever."

Torrent: "Intrigue, corruption, secret societies and one gorgeous but ambiguous villain intensify the danger and romance, as Lisa weaves twists and turns together with heart pounding adventure into another unique and thrilling tale."

Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer

"Beautifully rendered and historically detailed, Caleb Bender's journey to Mexico in search of religious freedom for his family is an emotive, adventurous and engrossing read."

To Win Her Heart by Karen Witemeyer

"A heroic yet vulnerable hero, an uptight but compassionate heroine, humour, attraction, conflict and an oversized, cantankerous dog called Ornery ~ what's not to love?"

The Colonel's Lady by Laura Frantz

"Evocative, poignant and joyous, The Colonel's Lady is a story to savour again and again."

The Queen by Steven James

An exceptional wordsmith and intricate plotter, thrillers really don't get much better than this.

Yesterday's Tomorrow by Catherine West

"Gritty. Compelling. Moving. Catherine West's debut novel epitomises these words as she plunges the reader into a much derided war and a time in history many wish to forget."

It was so hard to leave some fabulous reads out so I need to mention Jody Hedlund's The Doctor's Lady, Susan May Warren's Heiress and Baby, It's Cold Outside, Terri Blackstock's Shadow in Serenity and To Die For by Sandra Byrd!

7 Stories 7 Writers 7 Hours

2011-12-30T23:30:00.000+11:00

Check out this fabulous new project from 7 amazing writers and Tyndale House! I love the concept and can't wait to read the anthology. Click on the links below to stay in touch:

Mike Dellosso

Rene Gutteridge

Ronie Kendig

Robin Parrish

Tom Pawlik

Travis Thrasher

James Andrew Wilson

Like 7 Hours on Facebook

(The writers have some great giveaways going on if they reach 500 Likes today!)

Coming in 2012 from Howard Books

2011-12-28T17:12:00.000+11:00

I'm excited about a number of these 2012 books from Howard Books! I adore Nicole Baart and Deb Raney's writing and you can't go past a Peretti book for innovation and creativity.

What do you think, my friends?

Far From Here by Nicole Baart

How long do you hold on to hope?

Danica Greene has always hated flying, so it was almost laughable that the boy of her dreams was a pilot. She married him anyway and together, she and Etsell settled into a life where love really did seem to conquer all.

Danica is firmly rooted on the ground in Blackhawk, the small town in northern Iowa where they grew up, and the wide slashes of sky that stretch endlessly across the prairie seem more than enough for Etsell. But when the opportunity to spend three weeks in Alaska helping a pilot friend presents itself, Etsell accepts and their idyllic world is turned upside down. It’s his dream, he reveals, and Danica knows that she can’t stand in the way. Ell is on his last flight before heading home when his plane mysteriously vanishes shortly after takeoff, leaving Danica in a free fall. Etsell is gone, but what exactly does gone mean? Is she a widow? An abandoned wife? Or will Etsell find his way home to her?

Danica is forced to search for the truth in her marriage and treks to Alaska to grapple with the unanswerable questions about her husband’s mysterious disappearance. But when she learns that Ell wasn’t flying alone and that a woman is missing, too, the bits and pieces of the careful life that she had constructed for them in Iowa take to the wind.

A story of love and loss, and ultimately starting over, Far From Here explores the dynamics of intimacy and the potentially devastating consequences of the little white lies we tell the ones we love.

February, 2012

Hazel Creek by Walt Larimore

In a new novel from award-winning author Walt Larimore, a loving rural family struggles to survive tragedy and cope with the invasion of modern ways in the 1920s.

In the Great Smoky Mountains wilderness in 1925, Nathan and Callie Randolph, with their five unique daughters, struggle to maintain their farm, forests, family, and faith against a menacing business and an evil company manager trying to pilfer their land and clear cut their forest.

As loggers invade the mountains, death touches the family, and hardship and loss confront them again and again; fifteen-year-old Abbie Randolph becomes mother to her sisters and leans on her faith to guide her through the emotional wilderness of changing times. With the march of the industrial age, the roaring twenties, Prohibition, the increasing momentum for national parks, and the onslaught of a modern world, the traditional life and ways of the mountaineers were about to change forever.

Featuring a cast of colorful characters, including independent and earnest mountain families, a murderous lumber company manager, Cherokee Indians, a band of gypsies, desperados, lumbermen, moonshiners, a world-famous writer, and Civil War heroes, Hazel Creek reveals a gripping struggle of good and evil during an eruption of violence.

A beloved family physician, Walt Larimore is the perfect author for this novel of love, loss, and injury that illuminates the enduring power of faith.

March, 2012

Illusion by Frank Peretti

A stunning new thriller from the father of Christian fiction—a grieving husband encounters a teen identical to his dead wife…in face, name, and magical skills.

Dane and Mandy Collins have been a popular magic act for close to 30 years. In their late fifties, they plan to retire but their plans are devastated by a fiery car wreck. Dane awakens in a hospital and learns that Mandy is dead. As he reflects on their life together and how they first met at a magic show, we see nineteen-year-old Mandy in a flashback:

Mandy and two friends are visiting a county fair in Idaho when they happen upon a theater where a magician will be doing a show in an hour. While waiting to see the show, young Mandy appears to falls asleep, then awakes abruptly. She fell asleep in 1970; it is now 2010. Distraught, she is picked up by security personnel. She winds up in a mental hospital, where no one is sure who she is or where she came from.

Mandy escapes from the hospital. Alone, penniless, and mystified by her circumstances, she takes shelter with a charitable family and begins eking out a dime by performing magic for anyone who will stop, watch, and leave a tip. She winds up doing a weekly magic act at a local coffeehouse.

A friend tells Dane there’s an act he ought to see. Dane has retired but agrees to watch the girl perform. He is transfixed by the magic he sees, illusions that even he, a seasoned professional, cannot readily explain. But more than anything, he is emotionally devastated by this nineteen-year-old who is in every respect identical to the young beauty he first met some forty years earlier.

When Mandy and Dane reunite, they must decide what their future is…and uncover the conspiracy behind their meeting; the strange, supernatural bent to Mandy's magic; and who is following them.

March, 2012

Darkroom by Joshua Graham

A thrilling suspense novel about a man’s dark past, his daughter’s mysterious visions, and a psychopath who wants to kill them both.After scattering her mother’s ashes in Vietnam, photojournalist Xandra Carrick moves home to New York to rebuild her life and career. When she experiences supernatural visions that reveal atrocities perpetrated by American soldiers during the Vietnam War, she finds herself entangled in a forty-year-old conspiracy that could bring the nation into political turmoil.

Launching headlong into a quest to learn the truth from her father, a Pulitzer Prize winner who served as an embedded photographer during the war, Xandra confronts him about a dark secret he has kept—one that has devastated their family.

Pursued across the continent, Xandra comes face-to-face with powerful forces that will stop at nothing to prevent her from revealing the truth. But not before government agencies arrest her for murder, domestic terrorism, and an assassination attempt on the newly elected president of the United States.

Darkroom is a riveting tale of suspense that tears the covers off the human struggle for truth in a world imprisoned by lies.

May, 2012

After All by Deborah Raney

Featuring her trademark warm, friendly style, the final novel in bestselling and award-winning Deborah Raney’s Hanover Falls series offers plenty of romance and mystery as three people find hope, forgiveness, and love in unexpected places.

Eighteen months after the tragic Grove Street Fire took the life of her husband and four other heroic firefighters, Susan Marlowe thinks she’s finally beginning to heal. But then she discovers that David carried a secret to his grave—a secret that changes everything she thought about their marriage. For the sake of their sons, can Susan forgive the unforgivable?

Andrea Morley lost her closest friend in the fire. But she has no right to mourn him. Instead, she must forever grieve in silence—for someone else’s husband. Peter Brennan carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. As Hanover Falls fire chief, he was responsible for the brave firefighters who lost their lives that awful November night. Can he ever shake the feeling that he could have somehow prevented the tragedy? And now it seems he might find comfort in the arms of the woman he least expected.

May, 2012

Introducing FamilyFiction Edge

2011-12-27T18:13:00.000+11:00

The fabulous FamilyFiction digital magazine I write for is splitting into two magazines to be more reader specific. My Historical and Romance columns will remain with the original FamilyFiction magazine with Amish, Contemporary and Women's fiction, and Children's books and DVDs. The new FamilyFiction Edge magazine will include the Suspense, Speculative, YA/Teen genres along with Movies & DVDs, and Comics.

I'll have articles in both magazines which will be great fun, beginning with a 5 Author Love Inspired Suspense Feature in FamilyFiction Edge's debut edition, releasing in February, 2012.

Here's the official press release which has all the info!

NASHVILLE, Tennessee (January 2, 2012)—Salem Communications Corporation has announced that FamilyFiction, the Christian fiction news source, is launching the all-new spin-off title FamilyFiction Edge. The bimonthly digital magazine FamilyFiction Edge will devote its attention to Christian storytellers in Suspense, Speculative Fiction, YA/Teen, Movies & DVDs, and Comics & Animation.

“From the beginning, the FamilyFiction brand has been devoted to the latest and greatest Christian fiction and family-friendly movies,” notes FamilyFiction’s editor, Chris Well. “By splitting our magazine coverage into two separate titles, each shining the spotlight in different directions of the broader field of Christian fiction, we make it even easier for readers to zero in on what they prefer.”

Starting with the January/February 2012 issue, FamilyFiction Digital Magazine will narrow its focus each issue to Amish fiction, Historical fiction, Romance, Contemporary and Women’s Fiction, and Children's books and DVDs. Top authors include Karen Kingsbury, Beverly Lewis, Francine Rivers, Beth Wiseman, and Melody Carlson. FamilyFiction also covers film releases such as Courageous, from the makers of Fireproof, and The Lamp, adapted from the novel by Jim Stovall.

Starting with the February/March 2012 debut issue, FamilyFiction Edge Digital Magazine will focus on the latest releases in Suspense fiction, which includes thrillers, mysteries, and romantic suspense; Speculative fiction, which includes science fiction, fantasy, supernatural fiction, and end times thrillers; plus YA/Teen fiction, Movies & DVDs, and Comics & Animation. Top creators for these categories include Frank Peretti, Brandilyn Collins, Ted Dekker, Bryan Davis, Steven James, Donita K. Paul, and more. The Edge’s film and DVD coverage will also include the latest from VeggieTales, the upcoming Left Behind movie, as well as the 2012 theatrical release The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.

The FamilyFiction brand also includes a comprehensive website, and the email newsletter

FamilyFiction Weekly.

For more information on the latest in Christian fiction, movies, comics, and DVDs, please visit the FamilyFiction website at http://www.FamilyFiction.com.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T00:03:00.000+11:00

May you be reminded this Christmas of the reason we celebrate and be thankful for the birth, life and death of Jesus Christ, who brings us close to God, the creator and giver of life.

With love, hugs and prayers from me to you, my dear friends!

xo xo xo

Winners of Protection for Hire & more

2011-12-24T23:36:00.001+11:00

Well, it has been a little quiet around here while I was busy with my eldest's birthday, finished up work for the summer holidays and prepared for Christmas! I'll be back into things again next week but then I take my annual blogging break for the first two weeks in January :)

There's going to be some fun stuff happening at Relz Reviewz in 2012, beginning with a great giveaway to celebrate the release of Ronie Kendig's FIRETHORN, the final story in her brilliant Discarded Heroes series, so stay tuned.

For now, here's some Christmas cheer for the winners of the signed copies of Camy Tang's PROTECTION FOR HIRE:

US winner ~ Chalaina

Aussie winners ~ Kathryn A & Leola

Congratulations! Books will be coming your way soon :)

Coming in mid 2012 from Tyndale House

2011-12-20T07:18:00.000+11:00

More Tyndale mid 2012 releases!!

I love Candy's stories and given that fabulous author Ronie Kendig has given Trauma Plan a glowing endorsement, it is one of my most anticipated reads for 2012 :) Jan and Tracy's books look great too.

Enjoy adding to your wishlists!

Trauma Plan by Candace Calvert

Sidelined by injuries from a vicious assault, chaplain Riley Hale is determined to return to her former duties as an ER nurse. But how can she show she’s competent when the hospital won’t let her attempt even simple tasks? Determined to prove herself, Riley volunteers at a controversial urban free clinic despite her fears about the maverick doctor in charge.

Dr. Jack Travis defends his clinic like he’s commander of the Alamo. He’ll fight the community’s efforts to shut its doors, even if he must use Riley Hale’s influential family name to make it happen.

As Riley strives to regain her skills, Jack finds that she shares his compassion—and stirs his lonely heart. Riley senses that beneath Jack’s rough exterior is a man she can believe in. But when clinic protests escalate and questions surface about his past, Jack goes into battle mode and Riley wonders if it’s dangerous to trust him with her heart.

May, 2012

Skip Rock Shallows by Jan Watson

Lilly Gray Corbett has just graduated from medical school and decided to accept an internship in the coal camp of Skip Rock, Kentucky. Her beau, Paul, is doing his residency in Boston and can’t understand why Lilly would choose to work in a backwater town. But having grown up in the mountains, Lilly is drawn to the stubborn, superstitious people she encounters in Skip Rock—a town where people live hard and die harder and where women know their place. Lilly soon learns she has a lot to overcome, but after saving the life of a young miner, she begins to earn the residents’ trust.

As Lilly becomes torn between joining Paul in Boston and her love for the people of Skip Rock, she crosses paths with a handsome miner—one who seems oddly familiar. Her attraction for him grows, even as she wrestles with her feelings and wonders what he’s hiding.

June, 2012

Flame of Resistance by Tracy Groot

Years of Nazi occupation have stolen much from Brigitte Durand. Family. Freedom. Hope for a future, especially for a woman with a past like hers. But that changes the day American fighter pilot Tom Jaeger is shot down over occupied France. Picked up by the Resistance, Tom becomes the linchpin in their plan to infiltrate a Germans-only brothel and get critical intel out through Brigitte, a prostitute rumored to be sympathetic to the Allied cause.

D-day looms and everyone knows that invasion is imminent. But so is treachery, and the life of one American pilot unexpectedly jeopardizes everything. He becomes more important than the mission to a man who cannot bear to lose another agent and to a woman who is more than just a prostitute, who finally realizes that her actions could change the course of history.

June, 2012

Coming in 2012 from Guideposts & Summerside Press

2011-12-18T10:18:00.000+11:00

It's been a bit quiet here the last few days! I've been caught up with my eldest's 14th birthday, work Christmas functions and no doubt, as Christmas approaches posting will be sporadic. That said, I couldn't help but share with you some more sneak peeks!

Late last year Guideposts acquired Summerside Press and together they are continuing to release a range of titles to appeal to their readers.

Enjoy checking out these 2012 releases ~ any catch your eye? Love the cover of Baroness, A Sweethaven Summer and Wedding Belles are cute, the others just the usual fare for me.

A Sweethaven Summer by Courtney Walsh

Campbell Carter has come to Sweethaven in search of answers about her mother’s history. Just before losing a battle with cancer, Suzanne Carter wrote letters to childhood friends from her hometown of Sweethaven, Michigan. Suzanne’s three friends—Lila, Jane, and Meghan—haven’t spoken in years, yet each has pieces of a scrapbook they made together as girls. Suzanne’s letters have lured them all back to the idyllic lakeside town, where they meet Campbell and begin to remember what was so special about their long Sweethaven summers.

With the help of a handsome local man and her mother’s three friends, Campbell hopes to finally uncover her mother’s twenty-five-year old secret. In the process, she discovers a family she never knew and the friendships she’s always wanted.

As the women reconnect over the pages of the old scrapbook, wounds are mended, lives are changed, and friendships are restored—just as Suzanne intended.

COURTNEY WALSH is a freelance writer and author of two craft books, Scrapbooking Your Faith and The Busy Scrapper. She lives in Colorado with her husband and three children. A Sweethaven Summer is her debut novel.

February 1, 2012 ~ Guideposts Books

Love Finds You in Wildrose, North Dakota by Tracey Bateman

Rosemary Jackson has traveled all the way to the frozen tundra of North Dakota territory to visit her twin sister, Rachel. It’s been three long years since Rachel left Kansas with her new husband for this wild place. But Rosemary arrives to find only a grave, a grieving brother-in-law, and an underfed baby. She has no choice but to stay and see her sister’s family through the long winter.

Finn Tate has just buried his beloved wife, and he cannot seem to take care of himself or his infant daughter. He needs help. But he cannot stand the sight of Rosemary, who reminds him so much of Rachel, standing at his cook stove.

When Rosemary settles into a neighboring homestead, Finn realizes she is far more strong-willed than he ever anticipated. But after a series of mishaps on Rosemary’s property threaten her livelihood, it becomes clear that Finn is not the only one who wants her to go back to Kansas.

When the wildflowers arrive with the spring, will Rosemary be forced to leave everything she’s come to love in Wildrose, North Dakota?

TRACEY BATEMAN is the award-winning author of more than thirty titles and has nearly a million books in print. She lives in Missouri with her husband and four children, where she is active in music ministry at her church. Read more at traceybateman.com.

February 1, 2012 ~ Summerside Press

Love Finds You in New Orleans, Louisiana by Christa Allan

1841—Ever since her parents died of yellow fever when she was a child, Charotte LeClerc has lived with her grandparents, who rarely speak of their son and his wife. They are on the verge of negotiating a marriage contract with a suitor, a man Charlotte dreads, when they discover that she enjoys the company of Gabriel Girod, a young Creole man.

Charlotte’s future hangs in the balance as her grandparents consider whether to stop keeping secrets and reveal the truth that they’ve known since before her birth—a truth that will make the difference between a life of obligation and a life of choice for Charlotte.

CHRISTA ALLAN is the author of two acclaimed novels. A former high school English teacher, Christa was born in New Orleans and has lived in Louisiana for most of her adult life. She and her husband have five grown children and three grandchildren. Read more at christaallan.com

February 1, 2012 ~ Summerside Press

Baroness by Susan May Warren

Coming of age in the turbulent Roaring Twenties, two daughters of fortune can have anything they possibly want—except freedom. Expected to marry well and take the reins of the family empire, Lilly and Rosie have their entire lives planned out for them. But Lilly longs to flee the confines of New York City for the untamed wilds of Montana. Her cousin Rosie dreams of the bright lights of the newly emerging silver screen. But following their dreams—to avant-garde France, to dazzling Broadway, to the skies of the fearless wing walkers—will demand all their courage.

When forced to decide, will Lilly and Rosie really be able to abandon lives of ease and luxury for the love and adventure that beckons? At what cost will each daughter of empire find her happy ending?

SUSAN MAY WARREN is the best-selling author of more than thirty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have earned her acclaim from readers and reviewers alike. She is a winner of the ACFW Carol Award, the RITA Award, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award and a nominee for the Christy Award. She is the founder of My Book Therapy, a community that helps other writers find their voices. Susan and her husband have four children and live in a small Minnesota town on the shore of beautiful Lake Superior. Read more at susanmaywarren.com.

March 1, 2012 ~ Summerside Press

Tales from Grace Chapel Inn: Prayers and Pawprints by Diann Hunt

When two very special dogs descend on Acorn Hill, Alice wonders, Could a dog be an answer to prayer? Alice’s prayer is for Paula Middleton, a new resident who lives alone and suffers from seizures. After Paula is injured in a fall, Alice determines the town must do something for the young woman—and a service dog may be just the thing. But will the church board approve the expense? In the meantime, who owns the mysterious black dog that’s been watching over the citizens of Acorn Hill like a guardian angel?

DIANN HUNT began writing after her children left home and published her first novel in 2001. She has since published more than a dozen books. Diann and her husband live in Indiana, where they love to spoil their grandchildren and their dog. Read more at diannhunt.com.

April 1, 2012 ~ Guideposts Books

Tales from Grace Chapel Inn: Empty Nest by Pam Hanson & Barbara Andrews

It’s spring in Acorn Hill, which means the garden is in full bloom and the air is filled with the song of birds returned from their winter adventures. A visit from Louise’s daughter, Cynthia, adds to the joy of the season, but her colleague, a dreamy poet, makes life troublesome for all the Howards with her forgetful ways. Meanwhile, Louise is distracted by a serious legal matter, Jane busies herself with a new hobby, and Alice does her best to offer her help and sweet encouragement wherever needed. The wonders of spring ensure that Grace Chapel Inn is always blooming with new adventures.

PAM HANSON and BARBARA ANDREWS are a daughter-mother writing team; they began working together in the early 1990s and have had twenty books published, including fifteen under the pseudonym Jennifer Drew. Pam is the director of advising for West Virginia University’s School of Journalism. She and her husband have two sons. Prior to their partnership, Barbara had twenty-one novels published under her own name. She is the mother of four and the grandmother of seven. Barbara lives with Pam and her family in West Virginia.

April 1, 2012 ~ Guideposts Books

Shakespeare’s Lady by Alexa Schnee

For centuries, readers have debated the identity of the mysterious Dark Lady in William Shakespeare’s sonnets. Emilia Bassano—lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth and one of the first women poets in England—could be the answer.

In Shakespeare’s Lady, Emilia Bassano is one of the most dazzling ladies at court when she meets the little-known playwright William Shakespeare. Shakespeare sees the world like no one ever has before, and despite everything—his wife in Stratford-Avon, Emilia’s husband and young son, and the will of the fiery and unpredictable queen—they fall in love. But the course of true love never did run smooth, and the Virgin Queen does not take lightly to her ladies straying. These star-crossed lovers must fight for their love—and, eventually, their lives. Meanwhile, William, courting the Queen’s favor for his new theater, pens some of the most memorable stories ever written, and encourages Emilia to write; he helps her compose, and eventually steals, a little bedtime story she calls A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

From the plague-ridden streets of London to the throne room of Greenwich Court to the stage of The Globe Theater, Shakespeare’s Lady is a meticulously researched and gorgeously written story about grace, forgiveness, and the forbidden love between the greatest poet the world has ever known and the woman who inspired him.

ALEXA SCHNEE is the youngest-ever recipient of the Mount Hermon Most Promising Writer Award and a first place winner of the Authors of the Flathead 2010 High School Writing Contest. She lives in Kalispell, Montana.

April 1, 2012 ~ Guideposts Books

Forever Hilltop by Judy Baer

Two charming Forever Hilltop books in one volume. This new two-in-one format features the much-beloved first book in the series, An Unlikely Blessing, along with its brand-new sequel, Surprising Grace.

Book One: An Unlikely Blessing. Meet Alex Armstrong, former city dweller who has just accepted his first parish assignment to a small community in the wilds of North Dakota. In Hilltop Township, Pastor Alex becomes familiar with the colorful residents and their odd traditions, from julebukking to King Oscar’s fish balls. And then there’s the excitement the single pastor creates among the unmarried women in the community! Alex soon discovers that his new church home has as much to teach him as he has to teach them, providing all with An Unlikely Blessing.

Book Two: Surprising Grace. Alex Armstrong is settling into his new role as pastor of Hilltop Church, and he’s even starting to understand the strange ways of the people who populate this barren stretch of North Dakota prairie. But he also finds that his flock needs help and counsel like he never imagined. In this cozy and entertaining read, Alex must choose between the woman he once loved—and the home he’s come to love.

JUDY BAER, award-winning author of nearly eighty books, is a North Dakota native who writes from her home in Elk River, Minnesota. As well as being a full-time writer, Judy is a writing and life coach, a mother of two daughters, and a stepmother of three. Read more at judykbaer.com.

May 1, 2012 ~ Guideposts Books

Kate’s Song by Jennifer Beckstrand

Kate Weaver returns home to her family’s farm in Apple Lake, Wisconsin, battered and bruised and hiding a secret. She is not yet baptized and has spent the past year at a music conservatory in Milwaukee, living among the English. Music is Kate’s passion, and she is very good, so she faces a difficult choice: she must either give up her family and home to pursue the gifts God has given her, or come home and be baptized and give up on her dreams. And with Nathaniel King, the handsome neighbor boy she grew up with, paying attention to her, the choice of whether to return to school in the fall is even harder.

Kate wins a starring role in an upcoming opera, and as she wrestles with pressure from her family and her newfound feelings for Nathaniel, she is also haunted by what happened to her just before she left school: she fought to protect her friend against an angry ex and landed the man in intensive care. Will the consequences of that battle be the end of everything she’s ever wanted anyway? Will Nathaniel wait around while she decides what God really wants for her?

JENNIFER BECKSTRAND has a degree in mathematics and a background in editing. After six children, Jennifer decided to pursue a career in writing. One of her manuscripts, Rachel’s Angel, won first place in two writing contest. Jennifer is a member of the RWA and coordinates the Utah RWA Great Beginnings Contest. She lives in Utah.

May 1, 2012 ~ Summerside Press

Love Finds You in Sunflower, Kansas by Pamela Tracy

Annie Jamison is the sister who keeps the peace. So when her mother goes missing, Annie’s the one sent to retrieve her.

There’s one problem. It seems the town Willa Jamison (willingly) ran off to—Sunflower, Kansas—doesn’t exist. Sure, it’s on the map, but when Annie drives there, she finds herself in the middle of a field. Of sunflowers. In nearby Bonner Springs, Kansas, Annie finds her errant mother…and Joe Kelly, a handsome veterinarian who thinks Annie is part of a team of con artists out to swindle his father. It takes some time, but eventually, Joe’s working with Annie instead of against her to bring their wacky parents to their senses. When this unlikely team turns into an unlikely couple, Annie no longer wants to leave her field of sunflowers. She wants happily-ever-after with Joe Kelly. But when evidence of the con resurfaces, will Joe have enough faith in Annie to recognize the truth?

PAMELA TRACY is the author of more than twenty romance novels and novellas. She is a winner of the ACFW Carol Award and a finalist for both the Holt Madallion and RITA Awards. Pamela lives with her husband and young son in Nebraska. Read more at pamelatracy.com.

May 1, 2012 ~ Summerside Press

Love Finds You in Daisy, Oklahoma by Janice Hanna

In 1912, two years after a tornado left many children homeless, the town of Daisy, Oklahoma, needs help with its orphanage. Enter Rena Jewel, 38 years old and still single, who longs to do something important with her life. A lover of flowers, Rena believes the letter from Daisy to be a sign from the Lord, and she promises to help.

Sheriff Gene Wyatt is a widowed father struggling to control 23 unruly orphans—and to keep his own two boys from burning down the town. So when he receives word that help is on the way, Gene rejoices. Until he meets Rena, that is—a genteel and far too pretty woman whom he assumes is not up to the challenge. And after meeting the children, Rena begins to agree with him! At her wits’ end, she helps the children plant a garden and slowly earns their respect and obedience. The new orphanage director arrives just as the garden begins to bloom, and Rena must decide whether she can leave the town, the children—and the man—she’s come to love.

JANICE HANNA (also published as Janice Thompson) is the author of over seventy books for the Christian market, most of them light-hearted romances. An avid theater buff, Janice directs musicals at a Christian theater near her home in the Houston, Texas area.

May 1, 2012 ~ Summerside Press

Wedding Belles by Janice Hanna

Scene: Beautiful Estes Park, Colorado, 1912. Tomboy Lottie Sanders would do just about anything to help the fella she secretly loves. When Gilbert Parker’s family lodge faces financial ruin, he suggests putting on a melodrama to draw in a crowd. He appeals to Lottie to direct the show. Her plan to bring in actresses from across the country is sabotaged when the local single men turn it into a hunt for brides. Lottie finds the drama shifting from the stage to real life.

Filled with villains, vixens, heroes, and enough actresses to fill a theater, this tale is sure to please lovers of historical romance.

May 1, 2012 ~ Summerside Press

Oil by Jeff Nesbit

Global powers race to exploit the chaos that has erupted overnight. Terrorist attacks against three of the world’s largest oil fields in Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Iraq threaten to cripple the global economy. Clues link to a rogue, nuclear-armed country and a radical Sunni group, but not all are convinced they’re the perpetrators. Who had something to gain? All roads seem to lead to Israel, where Russia and America are locked in a titanic struggle over Israel’s large, undeveloped oil shale reserves.

Nash Lee, an NGO entrepreneur, is thrust into the tumultuous politics of the powerful Saudi kingdom. Dare he trust Saudi’s Prince Abdul with the information he and his team uncover about a deadly plot to spark dissension among the Arab nation-states? Will the Arab Spring revolts spill over into a fight for control of the Saudi kingdom and push the entire planet to the brink of war?

JEFF NESBIT has been a national journalist, the director of public affairs at two federal agencies in Washington, DC, and the communications director of a former vice president at the White House. He’s written more than a dozen successful novels.

June 1, 2012 ~ Guideposts Books

Baby, It's Cold Outside by Susan May Warren

2011-12-14T23:07:00.000+11:00

"More than any other holiday, Christmas had the power to rip her asunder."

In 1949, Dottie Morgan was done with Christmas - too many painful memories and no one to share them with. Once the doyen of Frost, Minnesota's Christmas spirit, Dottie just prays the season will be over quickly and quietly.

""Sweetheart, no man is going to marry a gal who can change her own tires. Men need to feel needed.""

Even Violet Hart's mother devalues her sacrifice and hard work during World War II as a member of the WAACs. While the citizens of Frost find Violet's abilities unworthy of a young woman, Violet is hoping the man she has been corresponding with cares for more than impractical feminine accomplishments.

"He might be a farmer, but he had years of practice reading the nonverbal communication of a wounded woman."

Gordon Lindholm has watched over his neighbour for more than two decades. Silently, and without thanks, made sure milk was delivered and wood chopped, but those things didn't erase the pain of grief, anger and loss or the accusation in her eyes.

"The truth will set you free. The words thrummed in his head. Yes. If only he believed them."

Jake Ramsey turns up in Frost on a mission. To speak the truth to the woman he has grown to love, yet never met and to face the consequences of choices he has come to regret.

Susan May Warren's Baby, It's Cold Outside is a beautiful Christmas story that will touch your heart and reignite your love for Christmas traditions and the importance of sharing the spirit of Christmas with others. Emotive and engaging, each character is replete with personality, foibles and strength, as they grapple with past heartache and for some, the anticipation hope brings. The town of Frost and the post war era come alive under Susan's deft hand, and the relationships, both old and new, are replete with poignancy and tenderness. Dottie, Violet, Gordon and Jake will capture your imagination as they seek to come to terms with their lives. The magic that is Christmas, with its message of hope and second chances, glows in this story and will evoke tears of sadness and joy. Baby, It's Cold Outside is a must read for anyone who adores Christmas novels and even for those, like me, who don't! The perfect read to curl up with as the birth of Jesus approaches.

With thanks to Litfuse for my review copy

As seen at Titletrakk.com

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Jinx Worth
Reviews of Heiress, Nightingale & Sons of Thunder
Visit Susie's website and blog
Buy Susie's books at Amazon or Koorong

Protection for Hire by Camy Tang

2011-12-13T23:06:00.000+11:00

Synopsis:~

Tessa Lancaster's skills first earned her a position as an enforcer in her Uncle Teruo's Japanese Mafia gang.

Then they landed her in prison for a crime she didn't commit.

Now, three months after her release, Tessa's abilities have gained her a job as bodyguard for wealthy socialite Elizabeth St. Amant and her three-year-old son.But there's a problem or two . or three ..

There's Elizabeth's abusive husband whose relentless pursuit goes deeper than mere vengeance. There's Uncle Teruo, who doesn't understand why Tessa's new faith as a Christian prevents her from returning to the yakuza. And then there's Elizabeth's lawyer, Charles Britton, who Tessa doesn't know is the one who ensured that she did maximum time behind bars.

Now Tessa and Charles must work together in order to protect their client, while new truths emerge and circumstances spiral to a deadly fever pitch.

My take:~

A feisty and forgiven heroine with questionable family connections, an heiress determined to protect her young son, a caustic sister, disappointed mother and a southern lawyer with a penchant for cannoli, all add up to a fabulously entertaining novel from the pen of the talented Camy Tang. Camy's characters ooze authenticity and charm, are openly flawed and strive to do what is right adding substance to this fast placed tale of family ties, faith and new beginnings. Tessa's newfound faith is tested as her uncle tempts her to return to her role as an enforcer for the yakuza while Charles Britton entices her heart. Camy's characters and storyline are refreshingly unique and simply put, make for a fabulous read. Great suspense, enticing romance and a deeper message of faith make Protection for Hire a great start to what will be a terrific series ~ I'm looking forward to the next installment in Tessa's life.

With thanks to Zondervan for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Tessa & Charles
Reviews of Sushi for One?, Only Uni, Single Sashimi, Deadly Intent & Formula for Danger
What's Cooking? with Camy
Interview with Camy
Visit Camy's website and blog
Buy Camy's books at Amazon and Koorong
Don't miss your chance to win a copy of Camy's book ~ click here

Character Spotlight ~ Janelle Mowery's Cade Ramsey & Grace Bradley

2011-12-12T23:51:00.000+11:00

Janelle Mowery's second novel in her Colorado Runaway series, When Love Gets in the Way, is available from Harvest House.

Synopsis

Grace Bradley wishes all she touches would turn to gold. Instead, it tends to tarnish.that is, until she finds freedom on the Double K Ranch. Grace is fleeing from the man her father chose to be her husband. But once her heart is captured by her new employer's best friend, and she finally understands the meaning of God's sacrificial love, she relinquishes her independence to save her loved ones.

Cade Ramsey contemplates running for dear life from the accident-prone nuisance he brought to his hometown. The trouble that trails her seems to latch on to him at every turn. But when Grace manages to win his calloused heart, he chases her down, praying he can keep her from following through on a decision that could ruin their lives.

Enjoy meeting Grace & Cade ~ thanks Janelle :)

Brief physical description

Grace Bradley isn’t very tall but what she lacks in height, she tries to make up for in spunk, though she tends to duck and hide when courage fails her. Her long dark hair frames her pale, petite face, though with her new job at the ranch, she’s getting a bit of a tan.

Cade Ramsey’s shoulders are broad because of his job at the livery. He tends to tower over Grace not only in height but in confidence. His wavy dark hair compliments Grace’s.

Actor/famous person

When I think of Grace, I picture a dark-haired, shorter Keira Knightley, I think because of the role she played in all the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. She’s who Grace would like to be…brave, a fighter.

I know I’ll show my age when I mention this next actor for Cade, but I pictured Patrick Wayne when I wrote Cade. The square jaw, curly hair, and broad shoulders fit him perfectly.

Strengths and weaknesses

Grace’s strength is her determination to succeed. Her weakness is that she doesn’t give herself much credit for much of anything. She spent a great deal of her teen years taking care of her sick mother and she learned a lot about life during those years.

Cade’s strength might also be his weakness in that he has a very soft heart for the downtrodden and strays. It’s how he came to be with, and fall in love with, Grace.

Quirk (if any)

Grace’s quirk is that she’s accident prone, and not just to herself. Anyone around her is likely to become involved with her ‘accidents’.

Your inspiration for the character

Cade came directly from the first book of the series, When All My Dreams Come True. He was the best friend of the hero of that story. He was soft hearted in that story and I wanted to see him find a wife. Grace was created just for Cade. He always rescued the lost and lonely. Grace was that but because she’s also accident prone, big brave Cade is almost afraid to be near her, but he finds he can’t stay away.

Credit: stock.xchang

Background to the story

Grace’s father is trying to force her into marrying a man she doesn’t like at all, so she runs away…using the back of Cade’s wagon as a hiding place. When Cade finds her, she talks him into taking her to his hometown. Cade is getting over a broken heart and wants nothing to do with Grace, yet he finds himself drawn to her, even though she’s inflicted all kinds of pain and trouble on him. When the man Grace is supposed to marry shows up, Cade tries to rescue her, putting himself in danger’s path. Grace learns the meaning of sacrificial love and relinquishes her independence to save her loved ones.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Bobbie & Jace from When All My Dreams Come True
Character spotlight on Janelle's Nate & Rebekah from Love Finds You in Silver City, Idaho
Visit Janelle's website
Buy Janelle's books at Amazon or Koorong

Q&A with Naomi Dathan

2011-12-11T21:19:00.001+11:00

Naomi Dathan's debut novel, Whither Thou Goest, I Will Go, is available now in ebook form for Kindle, Nook, Google Book and Kobo.

I hope you enjoy meeting Naomi :)

Naomi Dathan

What appeals to you most about writing fiction?

I’m a chronic daydreamer. I daydreamed my way through elementary school, pushing untouched worksheets into my desk while I survived deserted islands, heroically rescued puppies and went onstage as a famous singer. Now as an adult, I daydream my way through laundry, yard work, and green lights at intersections. This is very bad. But as soon as I start writing my daydreams down, I am no longer daydreaming. I’m writing. And that is very good.

Why Christian fiction?

I actually struggle with the term “Christian Fiction” because of the associated expectations. All of the Christian women I know are more down to earth than the traditional pious Christian heroine, and my fiction Christian women tend to be as well.

The main character of Whither Thou Goest, I Will Go, Jem, is like me: a messy, imperfect Christian with an ongoing relationship with God, who is a living force in the story. It makes my work harder to pigeonhole, but I don’t know how to write any other way. How can I write a universe where God, who created the universe, doesn’t exist?

Name five things you can’t live without (no need to take this too seriously!)

My women friends and family. Especially over the past couple of years, as my husband grew sicker and died, I’ve been able to lean very heavily on my girlfriends. And I have lots of them, so if one gets sick of my whining, I can just switch to another and continue my rant. I also have friends across the country and in the UK, so I can find someone to talk to almost every hour of the day. Men are great for certain things, but women know how to absorb grief and provide comfort.

Credit: sqback

The Internet. I don’t want to live in a world where I can’t instantly find out where I’ve seen that actor before or how to make Spanish rice from scratch.

Dogs. And that’s dogs – plural. Which is ridiculous. Fur all over the couch and carpet, constant interruptions of my work time to let them in and out, having to make arrangements when I travel, and breaking up quarrels over who gets sleep on the freshly shredded pillow. Still . . . have to have dogs.

Chocolate. Really. Sorry to be a cliché, but I didn’t get this way by nibbling on celery while writing difficult scenes.

A heating pad for my feet. A heating blanket would be way too hot, and socks make my toes feel smothered. I can’t sleep unless I have a heating pad wrapped around my feet.

Favourite book ~ Favourite movie ~ Favourite TV show

Favourite book: Pride and Prejudice.

Favourite movie: Pride and Prejudice (“I love you. M-most ardently!”)

Favourite TV show: Parenthood. I love this show because the characters are such a mess, but they never stop loving each other. Next to Parenthood, my current favourite is Animal Cop re-runs. Every time a dog barks on the show, my puppies run to the door, barking madly. And when the show has an especially bad case, I’m moved to give the puppies treats and tell them that I love them.

Where is the most interesting place you have been?

I’m pretty poor and was a full-time care-giver for 6 years, so I haven’t travelled. But I think the most consistently interesting place has been the Emergency Room at Akron City Hospital. I’m serious. I’ve been cold, miserable, and scared there, but I’ve never been bored. I’m too nosy, for one thing, and I have pretty good hearing, so I usually can glean the stories of the people around me. I’m also not big on boundaries, so I’ve gone into rooms to talk and pray with people. One busy night, the elderly lady in the room next to my husband’s had blood all over her from a bad fall. She was being treated but the nurses were too busy so I cleaned her up and stayed with her until her daughter got there. I can’t explain why that is important to me. We were at the Emergency Room 9 times in 2010 and 4 times this year before my husband passed, and this is going to sound crazy but I’m going to kind of miss it.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A writer. Since I was twelve years old, all I wanted to do was write. Every other job I’ve ever done, except parenting, has been done under duress.

What are two things people might be surprised to know about you?

That’s not an easy question, because I’m on Facebook all the time and I have, like, no boundaries!

Let’s go with this: This year, fairly soon after my husband passed, I drove seven hours to my sister’s haunted house and invented and played a character: Big Mama, a creepily friendly old lady with a sort-of Cajun accent. This may have been a sin . . . but I was fabulous.

Credit: bosela

And this: There is a part of me that wants to move to a farm, with real animals and everything, and live the rural life. Every time I drive past a farm I’m drawn to it. But then I realize I would have to take all of my neighbours. And my ceramics class at the community center. And my church – not some other church, but mine, with the people I’ve known for years. And the corner grocery store. Because, seriously. I’m not going to drive 25 minutes for a gallon of milk.

Whither Thou Goest, I Will Go

Which character did you connect to the most?

Jem. As with all my female characters, she is an extension of some part of me. At the time I wrote her story, I was a full-time caregiver, working very hard to be brave, nurturing and uncomplaining. So I actually kind of enjoyed writing the beginning of the book, where she was being bratty and refusing to be any of those things.

I’m also pretty in love with Seth, in spite of his blind-spots. It kind of hurt my feelings that some of my readers ended the book angry at him. But I might have a weakness for stubborn, somewhat abrasive men. . .

Which character was the most difficult to write?

Charley. Even that answer is kind of a spoiler, but I plan my books out completely before I write, so it was really hard to write that beautiful, adorable, rascally little boy.

What was your favourite scene to write in Whither Thou Goest, I Will Go?

Oh, my gosh! It’s so hard to pick. It’s not that I think I’m such a great writer, but that’s the luxury of writing your own story – everything happens exactly the way you think it should. I loved writing the scene where Jem piously asked Seth if they could start going to church, because she’d just found out that’s where the good gossip was. And the scene early in the book, where she and Seth are arm in arm, having a quiet argument while pretending to be civil for the servants.

The scene that resonates most with me is probably the one where she awakened next to Seth and was sure – absolutely sure – that he had died while she slept. I wouldn’t say it’s my favourite, but it came right from my core. I spent more than a decade thinking I might wake up some morning and find my husband gone. If his arm was outside the blanket in the night and was cold I would automatically check his chest to see if he was breathing. Until I wrote that scene, I didn’t realize how many times it had played in my head. It makes me wonder what my scenes will look like, now that my husband really is gone.

What do you hope readers take away from your story?

Simply, life is hard, but God is with you. Less simply, I don’t think God’s plan for us is to have a fairy tale happy ending. I think His love is broader, but harder to take: He wants to mold us, make us ever more into His ideal. Pain is a part of life; it’s not an indication that God has abandoned us.

What’s next in your writing pipeline?

Whither was always meant to be the beginning of a series, so this year, for sure, I’m going to write Book 2. After losing my husband, I experienced my first ever writer’s block, so I decided to break it by participating in Nanowrimo (where you write a novel in the thirty days of November) and write something completely fresh. I ended up with a 50,000 word first draft of a suspense novel. Who knows whether I’ll keep even ten percent of those words in my final edit, but it did get me writing again. I’m back to work!

Thanks for sharing about your life and writing, Naomi :)

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Jem & Seth
Visit Naomi's blog
Buy Naomi's book at Amazon

Coming in mid 2012 from Thomas Nelson

2011-12-10T21:30:00.000+11:00

I love that Thomas Nelson publishes such varied genres ~ historical, suspense, romance, supernatural and more.

I can't wait for Tracy's Garden of Madness ~ another installment in her Seven Wonders series, Colleen is always a great read, Kristin and Sibella, too :)

Which ones have caught your eye? I always love hearing your thoughts on cover art and anticipated stories....

Garden of Madness by Tracy L. Higley

"Three princes who would all have me. One as a means to peace, one as means to power, and the other—the other to set me free."

For seven years the Babylonian princess Tiamat has kept her family's secret, waiting for her father, the mad king Nebuchadnezzar, to return to his family and his kingdom. Married for treaty at fourteen and widowed at twenty-one, she revels in her newfound independence, determined to control her own destiny.

But when a nobleman is found dead in the palace, Tia must discover who is responsible for the murder, even if her own freedom is threatened. Evidence points to the man-beast roaming the Gardens, and Tia fears the closely-guarded secret may soon be discovered.

But the lies have only begun to unravel, and as Tia uncovers one unspeakable truth after another, she finds that she is the center of the intrigue, and her questions are a threat to her very life.

Madness, sorcery, and sinister plots mingle like an alchemist’s deadly potion, and Tia must dare to risk everything—to save the kingdom and herself.

May, 2012

Paris in the Rain by Kristin Billerbeck

When Daphne's fiancé calls off their wedding, her senses leave her—well, one of them does.

Daphne Sweeten, a professional “nose,” has given up her dream job creating fragrances in Paris. She sees it as a sacrifice worthy of the most romantic stories ever told . . . but it's a sacrifice lost on her fiancé, who decides to bail on their wedding.

Now, gone is Daphne's dream job as a perfumer, and most importantly, her money-making sense of smell. Instead she has a formulation job in middle America, a ramshackle house in dire need of roof repair, and an intriguing boss, the handsome Jesse Lightner.

As Daphne navigates the upheaval that is her life, she determines to stop trying to avoid the rain life brings and to dance in its showers instead.

June, 2012

Hope Springs by Kim Cash Tate

When two very different women become unexpected neighbors in Hope Springs, North Carolina, they have no idea how God is going to use the small town to change them . . . or use them to change the town.

Janelle Evans, still reeling from her husband's sudden death two years ago, has come to Hope Springs to help care for her grandmother who is battling cancer.

Becca Anderson is certain that her ministry in St. Louis is about to take off. Yet God seems to be calling her husband to pastor the same church in Hope Springs that his father and grandfather pastored.

Neither woman wanted this small town to be home. Pushed out of their comfort zones, Janelle and Becca both realize that healing in their hearts, their families, and the two churches is needed.

But neither expects all God has planned as hope springs in the most unexpected ways.

June, 2012

Through Rushing Water by Catherine Richmond

When the life she planned for herself is snatched away, Sophia's eyes open to the life God has planned for her.

Sophia Makinoff is sure that 1876 is the year she's going to become the wife of an up-and-coming congressman. But when the congressman humiliates her by proposing to her mousy roommate, Sophia wants nothing more than to disappear and avoid the wedding plans. She grasps at her first opportunity for escape and signs up for the Board of Foreign Missions.

She thinks she'll be going to China . . . but even running away doesn't go as planned when she's instead sent to the Ponca Indian Agency in the Dakota Territory. It's an abysmal, primitive place for a lady of society, but as she gets to know the people, she discovers she can't abandon them. The motives that led her there were anything but pure, but she finds a new purpose in trying to protect "the least of these."

The water rushes around her—literally and figuratively—as Sophia learns that the only way to fulfill her purpose is to ignore the distractions and focus on God's leading.

July, 2012

This Scarlet Cord by Joan Wolf

A chasm lies between Rahab and her beloved Sala that can never be crossed.

Though Sala rescues young Rahab from slave bandits, he knows he can never fall in love with a Canaanite. His belief in the One True God prevents them from a future together. Rahab's beauty gains royal notice, and she is selected to entice the King during the annual sacred marriage reenactment praising their pagan god, Baal.

But when the King suffers a heart attack and dies, Rahab is saved from the humiliating act. Her despair drives her curiosity about Sala's One True God. Could He accept her . . . even love her?

Deceit and pride stand in the way of Rahab's happy ending. Only God can use these events to tell the larger story of forgiveness and redemption.

July, 2012

The Stars Shine Bright by Sibella Giorello

As a forensic geologist for the FBI, Raleigh Harmon has seen more than her fair share of difficult cases. But going undercover will turn her life upside down in ways she never imagined.

There's evidence of race fixing at Emerald Meadows, and thoroughbred horses are dying. When Raleigh arrives posing as the niece of one of the owners, it doesn't take long for her to realize there is something bigger—and more sinister—at work. But determining who's behind it proves significantly more complicated.

Meanwhile, Jack Stephanson is assigned as her case agent and only contact, further complicating their already tumultuous relationship. Her mother is confined to a mental hospital and refuses tosee Raleigh after discovering that her daughter has kept her job as an FBI agent hidden for years. And her fiancé has just flown in to see her. At a time when she can't even be herself, her personal life is fraying at the seams.

The lies in Raleigh's professional life—though crucial to her undercover status—are weighing on her as much as the lies she's told her mother. Before it's all over, she'll have to cling fervently to the truth: both to solve the case and to bring back the family she longs for.

July, 2012

Tidewater Inn by Colleen Coble

Libby arrives at the Tidewater Inn hoping to discover clues about her friend’s disappearance. There she finds an unexpected inheritance and a love beyond her wildest dreams.

Historic preservationist Libby Holladay's passion is safeguarding the past, but her own history remains a mystery. When Libby’s roommate, Nicole, uncovers information about an extended family that Libby never knew existed, hope begins to dawn in Libby’s heart. But then Nicole abruptly goes missing.

Libby arrives in beautiful Hope Beach, a remote island in the Outer Banks, to help local authorities find her friend. There she meets Kirk Bourne, a handsome Coast Guard captain. As they search the small town and surrounding beaches for Nicole together, they find clues about Libby’s family . . . as well as evidence of greed and corruption in the burgeoning seaside town.

As danger closes in, Libby discovers an unexpected inheritance of much more than mere money.

And she finds a love that might be the safe harbor she's searched for all her life.

July, 2012

House of Mercy by Erin Healy

Beth needs a miracle. But God has something more astonishing in mind.

For generations, the Blazing B cattle ranch has been a refuge for outcast men who want only the peace of a hard day’s work and a good night’s sleep. Beth Borzoi has a big heart for the wounded souls who come to her family’s land. She’s on track to become a top-notch veterinarian, which will save the Blazing B thousands of dollars each year.

Then Beth accidentally kills a neighbor’s prized horse. The resulting lawsuit jeopardizes everything: the ranch, the family legacy, her career, and her father’s health.

Beth scrambles to redeem her mistake, pleading to God for help, even as a mystery complicates her life. A wolf stalks her, nosing her toward a destiny she doesn’t understand. And twice she heals mortal wounds with a touch and a prayer. But Beth can’t help the people she’s most desperate to save.

Beth seeks out the only man who can rescue the ranch—a man she first must rescue. The wolf leads her to a remote mountain town, where her estranged but wealthy grandfather is dying, and his mentally ill doctor doesn’t want him to get well. Even if Beth can save his body, his heart might be beyond reach.

August, 2012

Faithful to Laura by Kathleen Fuller

Laura's faith requires her to forgive, but she can only think of revenge.

Laura Stutzman came to Middlefield, Ohio, with one purpose: to get back what Mark King took from her. Soon after she arrives, she is injured. Now her face bears the spidery scars of Mark’s treachery, while her heart nurses new wounds.

Sawyer Thompson is a Yankee who spent his teen years in an Amish home. Now an adult, he has to make a decision—go back to the life he knew as a child or join the church. Having suffered loss and abuse at a young age, he understands Laura’s anger, but is determined to convince her to follow God’s will and forgive.

As their friendship grows, so do their feelings for each other. But a secret from Sawyer’s past comes to light—one even he’s not aware of—threatening the couple’s new relationship. Is Sawyer willing to do whatever it takes to remain faithful to Laura?

August, 2012

The Choice by Robert Whitlow

A mysterious prophecy. A pregnant girl. An impossible choice.

In 1974, seventeen-year-old Sandy Lincoln leaves her small hometown of Rutland, Georgia, to hide her pregnancy. Abortion was legalized the year before and Sandy feels immense pressure from her boyfriend and family to make the whole situation go away. On the road to her aunt’s house in Atlanta, Sandy encounters a strange woman who prophesies that she is carrying twin boys. The woman warns that should the sons ever meet, one of them will die.

Sandy is shocked. How does the woman know she's pregnant? And could it be possible she's carrying twins? Should she take her advice seriously or run the other direction? Before she can decide, the woman is gone . . . leaving Sandy alone to decide her fate.

The choice Sandy makes forever alters her destiny and that of those around her – not just in the present but thirty years later when the effects of the prophecy take a startling twist.

August, 2012

A Path Toward Love by Cara Lynn James

She gave up her luxurious life for the love of a self-centered man. Now she must travel down a path she never expected to find the love God set apart for her.

Young widow Katherine Osborne returns to her family’s rustic camp on Raquette Lake in the Adirondack Mountains. She’s determined to live a quiet life, but her socialite mother is equally determined to push her into a new marriage while she’s still young.

Andrew Townsend has known Katherine since they were children. An attorney who is successful, but not wealthy, he knows she is out of his reach, both socially and financially. But he’s curious what changed the free-spirited girl he knew into the now private, somber young woman.

When Katherine’s father hires Andrew to look into the financial affairs of her former husband, he uncovers secrets about her marriage that she’s been hiding from her family. Trapped by recent events that have come to light, Katherine turns to God for the courage to be honest about her past.

Knowing what Katherine endured stirs up feelings of love and protection in Andrew. Will they be able to overcome the impossible obstacles set before them and join hands to walk down a path toward love?

August, 2012

Song of the Brokenhearted by Sheila Walsh & Cindy Martinusen Coloma

Ava has a loving family, a beautiful house, and a solid faith. Yet in the span of one week, her ideal life will be completely broken . . . in the best of ways.

Her husband’s company is under investigation and their assets are frozen. They have little cash saved and suddenly no income. Her daughter would rather travel than attend law school, and her teenage son fails a drug-test. And then the doorbell rings . . .

On her front steps sits a car-seat holding an infant. The accompanying note explains that Ava's niece is leaving her daughter with Ava, who has all the comforts that life can offer.

Ava packs the baby in the car and sets out on a quest to find the rightful family to care for her. As they journey across the state, she encounters quirky and outcast people—broken people—who show her kindness.

It is in the faces of these people that Ava sees God in a new way. She acknowledges that she's been hiding her brokenness behind good deeds. Losing it all may just be a blessing rather than a curse for Ava and her family.

August, 2012

Character Spotlight ~ Camy Tang's Tessa Lancaster & Charles Britton with giveaways

2011-12-08T17:23:00.001+11:00

Camy Tang's new sassy suspense series begins with Protection for Hire and is available now from Zondervan.

Synopsis

Tessa Lancaster's skills first earned her a position as an enforcer in her Uncle Teruo's Japanese Mafia gang.

Then they landed her in prison for a crime she didn't commit.

Now Tessa and Charles must work together in order to protect their client, while new truths emerge and circumstances spiral to a deadly fever pitch.

Enjoy meeting Tessa & Charles - you're going to love them! Thanks Camy :)

Brief physical description

Tessa has light brown hair, naturally straight, a bit slick, won’t stay up easily. She has brown eyes (amber) with green flecks and a faint dimple on the left corner of her mouth when she smiles. Her father was English, Scottish, and a little Italian.

Charles has golden brown curls and blue-green eyes. He gets his high cheekbones and roman nose from his father. He’s lean, with wide chiseled shoulders.

Credit: exposay.com

Actor/famous person

Tessa: Jessica Alba

Charles: Matthew McConaughey, specifically in How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days

Strengths and weaknesses

Tessa is strong, independent, and capable, but she also has a bit of a temper that she has to struggle to keep in check.

Charles is loyal and responsible, with a bit of a wild streak that he has repressed for most of his life because of his abusive father. He can be a bit legalistic and judgmental, but he’s quick to own up to his mistakes.

Credit: Bell'Alimento

Quirk (if any)

Tessa has a scary love of weapons, a throwback to her days as an enforcer for her mob boss uncle.

Charles defies his Louisiana heritage by loving cannolis more than beignets.

Your inspiration for the character

I came up with Tessa’s character after watching shows like Alias and Covert Affairs. I love heroines who can kick butt! But I also love the humor and drama that comes with family interactions, kind of like The Sopranos, so I combined Alias with the Sopranos and came up with Tessa and her mafia family.

I developed Charles as a total opposite to Tessa, which was fun. At the time, I had just watched How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days again, and I love Matthew McConaughey’s face, figure, and that syrupy drawl! So I cast him as Charles.

Background to the story

Tessa Lancaster’s life is like a Asian sitcom version of The Sopranos. Her Uncle Teruo took her under his wing after her Caucasian father ditched her family when she was ten. It’s just a little too bad that Uncle is the godfather of the Japanese yakuza in San Francisco, but well, nobody’s perfect.

Credit: hisks

Tomboy Tessa always got along better with her male cousins rather than delicate girls like her younger sister, Alicia. As she got older, she excelled in fighting and her uncle unofficially recruited her to do “jobs” for him, although she never killed anyone. Her mother and sister were appalled and embarrassed that she was working for her uncle. To Tessa, it seemed as if the two most important women in her life wanted her to be who she’s not and judged her for it.

Then Uncle’s son killed his girlfriend in a rage. Tessa willingly took the blame instead and went to jail for him, pleading guilty to manslaughter.

Tessa was in prison for a total of seven years, but after four years, a fellow inmate led her to the Lord. The story opens when Tessa is released from prison. Her uncle doesn’t understand her new faith and wants her to continue working for him, but she refuses, wanting to get a “real” job and go legitimate. She agrees to help Elizabeth, a Southern belle who is trying to escape her abusive husband and reclaim her inheritance money.

Elizabeth’s lawyer happens to be Charles Britton, who had been the law clerk at Tessa’s trial. Affronted by the lesser charge of manslaughter when it was obvious to him that Tessa was guilty of a host of other crimes, Charles convinced the judge to add two years to the agreed sentence. Those extra years prevented her from saying goodbye to her beloved aunt and attending her funeral. Now that he has to work with Tessa to help Elizabeth, Charles doesn’t know what to make of this “new” Tessa who is so different from the woman he had helped to send to prison.

Throw in Charles’s and Tessa’s family drama, a few crooked lawyers and some testy mafia, and you’ve got a fun, suspenseful adventure about two people discovering how to become a new creature in Christ.

Fun, as always, Camy ~ many thanks :)

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of Sushi for One?, Only Uni, Single Sashimi, Deadly Intent & Formula for Danger
What's Cooking? with Camy
Interview with Camy
Visit Camy's website and blog
Buy Camy's books at Amazon and Koorong

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The winner of There You'll Find Me is...

2011-12-07T23:30:00.000+11:00

Abby M ~ congratulations!

You will LOVE this story :)

There You'll Find Me by Jenny B Jones

2011-12-06T17:29:00.001+11:00

Synopsis:~

Finley Sinclair is not your typical eighteen-year-old. She's witty, tough, and driven. With an upcoming interview at the Manhattan music conservatory, Finley needs to compose her audition piece. But her creativity disappeared with the death of her older brother, Will.

She decides to study abroad in Ireland so she can follow Will's travel journal. It's the place he felt closest to God, and she's hopeful being there will help her make peace over losing him. So she agrees to an exchange program and boards the plane.

Beckett Rush, teen heartthrob and Hollywood bad boy, is flying to Ireland to finish filming his latest vampire movie. On the flight, he meets Finley. She's the one girl who seems immune to his charm. Undeterred, Beckett convinces her to be his assistant in exchange for his help as a tour guide.

Once in Ireland, Finley starts to break down. The loss of her brother and the pressure of school, her audition, and whatever it is that is happening between her and Beckett, leads her to a new and dangerous vice. When is God going to show up for her in this emerald paradise?

Then she experiences something that radically changes her perspective on life. Could it be God convincing her that everything she's been looking for has been with her all along?

My take:~

Jenny B Jones' writing is the Lindt chocolate of Young Adult novels. Smooth, satisfying and memorable, always leaving you much to savour. There You'll Find Me is a captivating and deeply moving story of a young girl attempting to come to terms with the loss of her beloved brother and discover her place in the world. Jenny has such an authentic voice, capturing teen angst, bravado and depth so well in addition to painting beautiful word pictures of Ireland and its people. The relationship that Beckett and Finley slowly forge is appealing in its genuineness as Beckett attempts to shed his Hollywood persona and show Finley he is "real boy". I adored Finley's attempts to connect with an embittered old woman and the way that storyline developed. Jenny's trademark wit and directness is ever present creating moments of laughter and heartfelt emotion. A tender tale with appeal to readers of all ages, There You'll Find Me is a must read novel of 2011. I love Jenny's adult stories but now having delved into her YA fiction, I'm heading to my daughter's room to find her stash of Jenny B Jones' novels!

With thanks to Wynn~Wynn Media & Thomas Nelson for my ebook review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Finley & Beckett
Reviews of Save the Date & Just Between You and Me
Character spotlight on Lucy & Alex
Character spotlight on Maggie & Connor
Visit Jenny's website and blog
Buy Jenny's books at Amazon or Koorong

Coming in 2012 from Faithwords

2011-12-06T08:30:00.000+11:00

I love the covers of these books from Faithwords and can vouch for the exceptional quality of Carla's writing ~ she is a wonderful woman, as well!

I've read a number of Ginny's early books so keen to see her back writing historicals.

Stardust by Carla Stewart

Shortly after burying her unfaithful husband, Georgia Peyton unexpectedly inherits the derelict Stardust motel from a distant relative. Despite doubts from the community and the aunt who raised her, she is determined to breathe new life into it. But the guests who arrive aren't what Georgia expects: Her gin-loving mother-in-law; her dead husband's mistress; an attractive but down-on-his-luck drifter who's tired of the endless road; and an aging Vaudeville entertainer with a disturbing link to Georgia's past.

Can Georgia find the courage to forgive those who've betrayed her, the grace to shelter those who need her, and the moxy to face the future? And will her dream of a new life under the flickering neon of the STARDUST ever come true?

May, 2012

For Such a Time as This by Ginny Aiken

The first in an inspirational new series, FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS is a retelling of Esther 4:14. Farmers, forced by drought to mortgage their land, hope for relief when the railroad announces plans to build a spur line through their area. Land speculation quickly follows, led by a young banker, Eli Whitman.

Widower Whitman has recently wed Olivia Moore in a marriage of convenience and, while she's proving to be an excellent "investment," his in-laws give him pause. When Whitman's land purchases force Olivia's family off their homestead just as winter sets in, Olivia fears for their safety. Though she swore to stay out of his business, it's up to Olivia to convince her new husband to pull back from his demands in this masterful period romance.

August, 2012

Character Spotlight ~ Kathy Herman's Adele Woodmore

2011-12-05T22:25:00.001+11:00

Kathy Herman's second Secrets of Roux River Bayou mystery, Dangerous Mercy, is available now from David C Cook.

Synopsis

Adele Woodmore has sold her estate and moved to Les Barbes, in order to be close to Zoe, Pierce, and little Grace. She befriends two men from a local halfway house after she hires them to do odd jobs, hoping to help them get back on their feet.But when three wealthy CEOs are drowned in the bathtub and their safes robbed, everyone in town is on edge. Adele's friends insist she should just stay away from the men at the halfway house. She doesn't. Eventually, her housekeeper quits, telling Adele that her association with those men is dangerous mercy, and that she can't be a part of it.

Adele is smart enough to do her homework. She hires a PI to find out whether there's anything in either man's background she should worry about. Neither has a record. And nothing in the report gives her pause except the inordinate number of tragedies both men have endured.So what is there to worry about?

Enjoy meeting my oldest spotlighted character, Adele ~ thanks Kathy!

Brief physical description

Adele Woodmore is eighty-six. White-haired. Peachy cheeks. Faded blue eyes. Classy looking (typical Southern belle). Usually wears dresses.

Actor/famous person

Adele appears on the cover of Dangerous Mercy (attached). Though she isn’t as petite in stature as Jessica Tandy, her personality reminds me of her. I could see Jessica Tandy playing Adele if the story were turned into a movie.

Strengths and weaknesses

Adele’s a no-nonsense person who gets directly to the point and wears her honesty on her sleeve. She forthright, but not rude. She’s good at reading people and tends to give everyone the benefit of the doubt unless they give her reason not to. She makes up her own mind about a person’s character and resists the temptation to engage in gossip. She’s sold out to Christ, and anyone who knows her for any length of time has no doubt that she takes her faith seriously and puts God first. Adele is a very strong individual. Sure of herself. Generous. If she has any weakness it’s getting ahead of God in her desire to reach out to those less fortunate.

Quirk (if any)

Adele calls everyone, “hon.” And when she’s moved by something, she puts her hand on her heart and exclaims, “Oh my,” or “Goodness …” She’s also been known to giggle like a school girl.

Your inspiration for the character

I needed a protagonist who was gutsy enough to really love her neighbor as herself. Usually older believers seem more willing to take chances since the bulk of their life is behind them and they want every moment they have left to truly matter.

Background to the story

Credit: stock.xchang

Adele Woodmore, a wealthy 86-year-old woman sold her huge estate in Alexandria, Louisiana and moved to the quaint tourist town of Les Barbes, Louisiana to be closer to her godchild, Grace Brossard (2). Zoe Broussard, Grace’s mother, once worked as part of Adele’s household staff and stole a valuable ring from Adele, then fooled police and Adele into thinking she was innocent. Zoe later sold the ring and moved to Les Barbes, using the money to start up Zoe B’s Cajun Eatery. Ten years later (book one, False Pretenses), Zoe went back and confessed everything to Adele and offered to pay her a thousand dollars a month for thirty months to square the debt. When it came time to sign the repayment papers, Adele informed Zoe and her husband, Pierce, that she had decided to forgive the thirty thousand dollars—and had also paid off the mortgage on their building. Adele’s reason for doing it was simple: it was grace. Zoe and Pierce were overwhelmed at such a generous act, and Adele eventually confided in them about her own past. How she had lost a child when she was eight months pregnant, had never been able to conceive again, and had never forgiven God. In the aftermath of grief, Adele was bitter and mean, taking her spite out on her hired help. Adele’s husband had to pay their employees ridiculous salaries, just to stay and put up with Adele’s mistreatment. After Adele’s husband died, in her desperation, she accepted Christ and her perspective began to change. She went back to all the people she’d hurt and asked forgiveness. Some forgave her. Others didn’t. But she promised God that she would extend grace to all those who crossed her path. God had forgiven her so much. She didn’t see how she could do less. Adele’s act of grace turned out to be the catalyst for a deep and lasting friendship, and the Broussards named their firstborn daughter Grace—as a reminder of Adele’s (and God’s) kindness to them.

Soon after that (book two, Dangerous Mercy) Adele moves to Les Barbes to be closer to the Broussards, who have become like family. Father Vince from Haven House, a halfway house for homeless men, asks Adele if she would consider hiring Murray Hamlin and Noah Washington to do odd jobs around her place. Adele is only too glad to reach out. It’s a joy any time she can show the love of God to someone new. She hires the two men on numerous occasions and soon invites them to her kitchen table for refreshments and conversation, treating them more like friends than hired help. One of them becomes a person of interest in the killing of a resident of Haven House. All Adele’s close friends, including Zoe and Pierce and Isabel Morand, who works for her, caution her about befriending these strangers, since she really knows nothing at all about them. Isabel finally quits, telling Adele that her association with these men is dangerous mercy. Adele quietly does a background check on the two men and finds nothing that should concern her. So what is there to worry about?

Thanks for sharing about Adele, Kathy :)

Relz Reviewz Extras
Visit Kathy's website
Buy Kathy's books from Amazon or Koorong

Coming in 2012 from Hanegraaff & Brouwer

2011-12-04T18:02:00.001+11:00

Loving these movie poster like covers for Hanegraaff and Brouwer's Last Disciple series from Tyndale House. The first two books are repackaged books from mid 2000, with a new final novel, The Last Temple.

I'm looking forward to reading all three for the first time in 2012. You? I'm guessing these will catch your eye, Nicole!!

The Last Disciple by Hank Hanegraaff & Sigmund Brouwer

First-century Rome is a perilous city as Nero stalks the political circles and huddled groups of believers. To be safe, Christians must remain invisible.

Gallus Sergius Vitas is the only man within Nero's trusted circle willing to do what it takes to keep the empire together. He struggles to lessen Nero's monstrosities against the people of Rome, especially the Christians. But as three Greek letters are scrawled as graffiti throughout the city, Nero's anger grows.

As the early church begins to experience the turbulence Christ prophesied as the beginning of the last days, an enemy seeks to find John's letter, Revelation, and destroy it. Meanwhile the early Christians must decipher it and cling to the hope it provides as they face the greatest of all persecutions.

May, 2012

The Last Sacrifice by Hank Hanegraaff & Sigmund Brouwer

Helius, Nero’s most trusted adviser, anticipates the death of his sworn enemy, the legendary warrior Gallus Sergius Vitas, scheduled to die a gruesome death in the arena. However, the badly beaten man who appears in the amphitheater is not who he seems.

Rescued by a stranger and given a mysterious scroll, Vitas is told he must decipher this letter to find the answers he needs—a letter that Helius is also determined to decipher and to keep hidden from Nero.

As Nero’s reign of terror grows, so does his circle of enemies.

May, 2012

The Last Temple by Hank Hanegraaff & Sigmund Brouwer

Set in the turbulent years just before one of the most horrendous events in Jewish history, The Last Temple concludes the trilogy of The Last Disciple and The Last Sacrifice.

Vitas is reunited with his wife and retires to Alexandria, determined to live a quiet, domestic life. But he can’t avoid the debts that he owes to the men who saved him, and he becomes a key figure in the plot to rid the empire of Nero.

It sweeps him into the “year of four emperors,” when the Roman Empire is nearly destroyed, and takes him back to Jerusalem as Titus lays siege to the great city. Only then, as the prophecy of Jesus begins to unfold, does Vitas discover the true mission set before him and the astounding conspiracy behind it.

August, 2012

The Restorer - Expanded Edition by Sharon Hinck & Interview

2011-12-02T22:42:00.001+11:00

Sharon Hinck's Sword of Lyric series is one of the meaningful and challenging reading experiences I have enjoyed for many years, so I'm thrilled to see that Marcher Lord Press has released the first novel in the series with additional material, The Restorer - Expanded Edition.

In addition to the brilliant story of Susan's journey to another world, involving adventure, danger, corruption and a world seeking redemption with moving spiritual allegory, the expanded editon has additional scenes to enjoy and a detailed devotion guide. The devotion guide walks readers through the books chapters with corresponding Biblical chapter to read and study. I highly recommend this story and the extra material will only add to an exceptional reading experience!

To celebrate, I'm reposting parts of my book club's interview with Sharon from 2008 when we had the pleasure of discussing The Restorer together! Enjoy :)

Book Club: Were some of the spiritual insights that Susan learned through her journey from your own faith experience?

Sharon: Absolutely. I share her longing to be a faithful servant, and her awareness of her own frailty and utter dependence on God.

Did you have a name for the parallel world?

No, and I'm not sure why. I kept working around the issue . . . referencing the People of the Verses, the clans, the city of Lyric, the other place through the portal….but never had a name of the place as a whole. I still don't know why my creative subconscious was so adamant in not providing that… perhaps because the People of the Verses didn't name their world - didn't even think much in terms of “world” but simply their clans. Great question - one that still stumps me.

Where did the idea for the book come from, did she feel that she was shown the way to write this book?

I used to be the artistic director of a Christian performing arts group, and before I retired from that, was developing a script about a woman going into her attic and having devotions - and women from the bible (like Deborah) stepping out and interacting with her)… so that germ developed into a woman in her attic GOING somewhere (but I didn't want it to be Biblical times) and BEING a type of Deborah…and it just kept unfolding from there.

How long did it take to write?

Six months for the first draft…many many rewrites over several years. I began writing it in October of 2002.

Who or what was the inspiration for Susan's character?

First - Deborah (a mother in Israel who rode into battle) from the book of Judges. Second - all the women I know who are literally “pulled into another world” when they get the news that a friend has cancer, or a parent has Alzheimers, or a child has a learning disability. They enter a place they never expected to visit, and are called upon to fill a heroic role they don't feel adequate to fill. And God equips them, sends them allies, and works through them.

And interestingly, in many ways, Susan's journey has been my experience in the world of being a published author. J But I wrote the book BEFORE that happened.

Where did you get the ideas for the town's names and what the other world looked like?

I didn't want to re-create Middle Earth or the Wounded Land, or Albion, or Narnia - things that were already done beautifully by the masters. I wanted to do some twists on the traditional fantasy setting. That winter, Minnesota was grey and overcast - gray snow, gray sky, no sun. I wondered what a world would be like where people never saw the sun, or moon, or stars…and where their technology developed in completely different ways.

As far as the names, I tried to play with the environment a little, and also the musical “sound” of various cultures. But I sneaked in Shamgar as nod toward the book of Judges (he was one of the minor Judges mentioned in the Bible).

What research did you have to do for this book?

Many trips to alternate universes.

(Hee hee! Okay, just kidding).

Swordwork, cultures without written languages, a little about technologies and physics… but it was predominantly spun out of imagination.

I am interested to know where your idea came from for the Rhusicans. Have you had experiences where you've been amongst people who instil negative and evil thoughts?

Great question. I based the Rhusicans on our modern marketing industry…the folks who “create a need” by touching on people's deepest insecurities… saying “you aren't good enough” in whichever way their product can solve. I also have battled depression, so I know how difficult “mind poison” can be… how it can take hold, or dig in.

The challenge to go out of our comfort zone and face our fears is extremely daunting and requires us to put our trust totally in God. Have you found that by writing about Susan and her need to trust God to survive, has given you more confidence to step out and face difficult challenges that may arise in your life?

I think I'm actually more like a character in the third book, who is EAGER to jump ahead and serve - but then gets in over his head. I tend to shout, “Yes, Lord!” but then find myself asking Him to let me turn back.

I DID find that the release of the book and the challenges I faced that year gave me lots of chances to live out the sorts of opportunities to lean into God more, and dig deeper - just like Susan had to.

What was the inspiration for your imagination to come up with the parallel world that was the setting of this series of books?

Julie Heidelberger

I think I answered that earlier, but it was in part from my love of “fish out of water” stories, in part a very dreary winter in Minnesota where it stayed gray a long time, and in part from my love of the Old testament stories of the Judges.

Do you have a mental picture of the characters as you write?

I don't even carry mental pictures of my FRIENDS very well. I'm not big on facial recognition. But I had VIVID senses of their personalities. Each character was very very real to me. I even found myself praying for some of them during my devotions, when I forgot for a moment they were just characters in a story. :)

How do you choose the names for your characters?

I wanted Susan to be an “every woman” and I'm part of a small group Bible study at our church. There are two Susans, and two Marks (none are married to each other)…. So I used those two names as good central names.

Rhus is the Latin botanical name for poison, hence the Rhusicans. Much of the rest - I just grabbed “place-holder names” to use until I could work out careful choices, but ended up keeping most of them.

How much of you is there in Susan?

See above…. A LOT… but in some ways, my spiritual walk with God has a LOT in common with Kieran's. I tend to wrestle with the One quite a bit.

I thought it was interesting that both the Restorers were people who struggled with their faith or felt it was all but gone. I'd love to know your purpose behind choosing those characters for the role

I'm in awe of how God chooses the weak to confound the strong. He uses broken vessels and even rebellious or disbelieving ones. One character is inspired a bit by Gideon - who when He received God's call said, “If the Lord is truly with us, why have all these bad things happened to us?” (I was astounded to find those words in the book of Judges - because they felt so contemporary to me, and I hadn't remembered that aspect of Gideon). As I wrote The Restorer's Son, I felt overwhelmed by God's heart of love even for those who are wandering or challenging Him. I saw the way He pursues us because of that love.

Was The Restorer an easy novel to write?

Yes and no. It was my first novel, so it was SO FUN because I totally didn’t know what I was doing, and wasn’t worrying about all the things I was doing wrong. Each book I’ve written has gotten HARDER to write, because I know more about the craft. It was difficult because in the other world, since they had to sun, moon, stars, or fire, it kept me from using LOTS of the common images and metaphors I was comfortable using when I wrote. And it took extensive “world building” that my women’s fiction doesn’t require in the same way.

Did you plan at the start to have a series?

I don’t remember. I think I just started writing and watched to see what would happen. When I got to the end, I knew it wasn’t over yet. :-)

Eastop

In your everyday life do you wonder what it would be like to live like Susan? and do you reflect back over life like Susan?

My everyday life – when my four kids were young and life was a joyous chaos – was very much like Susan’s. I have a loving husband, yet often felt overwhelmed by life and wondered if my life was really making a difference. Parenting is TOUGH and definitely makes us feel like we’re drowning some days. :-)

What has been the most encouraging feedback you have received regarding this series, by someone whose life has been touched by your story of The Restorer?

SO many amazing stories - from a gal who heard from God during her prayer time to get the book - and then He used it to speak to her…. to a woman who at a certain scene in book two, put the book town, cried before God, and said, “I'm tired of fighting you. I give myself back to you.” To a mom in crisis feeling she couldn't go on, who suddenly remembered the Rhusicans, and recognized the mind poison, and was able to fight it off and get through another day. I'm in awe that God could bring comfort and encouragement to others through this simple story. He is amazing.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Interview with Sharon
Visit Sharon's website and blog
Buy the book at Amazon