A Giveaway & Celebrating the Release of By Appointment Only

It's a Sunday after-church tradition. Following Mass, my husband and I head straight to National Coney Island for breakfast. It's a family-style diner. There's dish clatter, a flood of conversation, kids laughing (and crying!) and folks wiping sleep from their eyes as they hunker in with a cup of coffee, some pancakes, or some bacon and eggs.

It's comfort, and comfort food, that's as familiar to us as a sunrise, and we've even gotten to know a number of the waitresses. When my husband had hip replacement, a few of them even made it a point to stop by and chat, wondering how his recovery progressed. I love this place, and it became the inspiration for my Sal's Place Series.

 

 

After all, can't you  imagine Jennifer strolling the aisles, taking orders and serving customers with a smile? Sal Cocossa hard at work cooking behind the flat top grill? Luke and Callie West having dinner together? Ryan Douglas stopping in for a quick cup of coffee while patrolling the streets of Detroit?

 

Today, Sal's Place has a new entry - By Appointment Only! I want you to get to know Matt Bellinger and Heather Cavanaugh - so, to celebrate, I'm giving away an autographed, print copy of Search & Rescue (Book 1) and Beautiful Music (Book 2). All you have to do is leave a comment, talking about your favorite spot to savor down-home comfort food and casual atmosphere. I can't wait to hear from you! Don't worry about reading the series in order, or being lost if you haven't read them all - these are stand-alone romances full of faith, hope, and love.

 

Giveaway winners will be announced next Saturday right here at the blog, so be sure to check back!

 

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY  ~ BLURB

 

Political dynamo Matt Bellinger understands he has an unyielding responsibility to work hard for the betterment of his community and the world around him. Life, he believes, should be built strictly on effort and tangibles, not an elusive faith.

 

But that belief is challenged when a bill to spearhead volunteerism leads him to canvassing efforts at Detroit's legendary diner, Sal's Place, and a meeting with Heather Cavanaugh. His polar opposite, the street-smart beauty challenges his heart and perceptions. She's the head stylist at Optiva, a trendy, upscale hair salon in downtown Detroit, as well as a tireless volunteer giving back to the city she loves in honor of the God she serves.

 

Love blooms, gradually shifting Matt's perceptions. But when a life-threatening illness in his family challenges that fledgling faith, will he be able to hold fast to his newfound beliefs? Will he discover that faith makes all things possible and love makes all things beautiful?

 

 

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY ~ EXCERPT 

 

Matt made it to the hospital in plenty of time to give Mandy’s untethered arm a gentle squeeze and dot her forehead with a kiss. He loved the way her eyes lit up at the sight of his gift—a big, pink teddy bear with get-well-soon balloons tied to its paws. Once the pre-operative sedative kicked in, Mandy became sluggish, so Matt followed his family out of the room. Only Rick and Stephanie stayed behind.

 

In the waiting room, the O’Connors and a few couples from Rick and Stephanie’s church that Matt had never met before convened to wait for word from the OR. As a group, they joined hands and murmured a prayer. Matt watched, compelled by the scene, and he thought instantly of Heather, of how readily and easily she had prayed at dinner, just like these people prayed now. She was comfortable with her faith and her beliefs, as well as the pattern of her life.

 

Matt felt a stab of yearning that had nothing to do with the love he held for Heather. Rather, the ache that swelled through his chest as the prayer session ended stemmed from the fact that he could feel the peace that flowed. He saw it in their eyes and in the more relaxed way they moved.

 

But he couldn’t taste it for himself. He was an outsider, hungry yet rootless, staring through plate glass at a feast meant to fill and quench.

 

How, he wondered, could he ever break through?

 

“Hey there, handsome.”

 

From behind, that quiet, subdued summons reached his ears…then entered his heart.

 

Matt spun, face-to-face with Heather who stepped straight into his arms and held on tight.

 

The love that washed through him was so powerful, words failed.

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY ~ PURCHASE LINKS

 

PELICAN BOOK GROUP

 

AMAZON 

 

BARNES & NOBLE

 

CHRISTIAN BOOK-DOT COM

Sharon Srock Introduces us to...Terri...with a Print Book Giveaway!

The Women of Valley View are back, so I'm welcoming author Sharon Srock to the blog once again. I'm eager to check out this new release and discover what's new with Sharon - this gracious author has even offered up a print copy of Terri to a lucky commenter, so leave us some love and your e-mail address so we can reach out to you if you win! 

Sharon Srock lives with her husband, Larry, and two dogs in Rural Oklahoma. She is a mother, grandmother, and Sunday School teacher. Sharon has one and three-quarters jobs and writes in her spare time. Her favorite hobby is traveling with her grandchildren. She is a member of the ACFW and currently serves as treasurer for her local chapter.

Sharon’s debut novel, The Women of Valley View: Callie released in October 2012. The second in the series, The Women of Valley View: Terri freshly released just this month.

Connect With Sharon Here:

Blog: http://www.womenofvalleyview.blogspot.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SharonSrock#!/SharonSrock

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/SharonSrock

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6448789.Sharon_Srock

 

Sharon, do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I’ve always been a reader. I NEVER had any desire to write, but God had other plans for me. So, the interest comes directly from Him. I’m waiting to see where He takes it.

What books have most influenced you?

I’ve had a library card for as long as I can remember. As a child I was more interested in the next book than the next…anything. I don’t think I can narrow fifty years of books to a specific set, type, or author. As a child I read just about anything I could get my hands on. I had my Trixie Beldon years, that graduated to Ms. Holts Gothic romances in mid high, Straight romances as a young wife and mother, I had several years of Horror novels, a decade or so of Science fiction/fantasy, heavy on Star Trek titles, Now, mainly court room drama and romantic suspense when I have time to read.

What book are you reading now?

Homefires by Emily Sue Harvey

What are your current projects?

Pam, the third book in the Women of Valley View series is at my publisher for consideration. I am furiously writing the fourth book, Samantha.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I’m a bit of a perfectionist. I try to write it right the first time, instead of just getting the story on paper first and fixing it later. It slows me down since I try to re-read the whole thing everyday before I add new lines and pages. After I have 50 pages or so, the writing seems to progress much faster since I don’t have time to reread.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

The importance of dreams, and the importance of NOT putting those dreams in front of what God has for us. If God has given you a dream for your life, He’ll get you there if you give Him control. Just because the route He takes is different than yours doesn’t mean the destination isn’t the same.

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

OH, yeah. I’m Terri in most of the book. I saw so many parallels in her confusion over where God was taking her and where she wanted to be with my life in the early writing and my questions about this  being God’s will for me. Most of Terri’s prayer’s are mine as I wrote.

What were the challenges (research, literary, psychological, and logistical) in bringing it to life?

You know, writing Callie’s story was a challenge for me in so many ways. Pam’s story was an emotional challenge because I’ve had a lot of the feeling she’ll deal with in the third story. Aside from the introspection mentioned above, Terri’s story was pretty easy to write.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

To repeat the most important point-- If God has given you a dream for your life, He’ll get you there if you give Him control. Just because the route He takes is different than yours doesn’t mean the destination isn’t the same.

And now, let's meet Terri! (And, as a personal aside, I just have to say, I love the hero's name - Steve Evans - since that's my DH's name as well!!)

Despite a bustling day care center and a new foster child, Terri Hayes hungers for a family of her own. Then a plumbing mishap leaves her homeless and questioning God’s plan. Steve Evans’s gracious offer of his basement apartment as a temporary solution is an answered prayer.

 

Steve is a successful writer and a good father, but Terri is horrified when Steve’s book research leads him to a harsh confrontation with the parents of her foster child.  She needs to distance herself from Steve, but her efforts fall short as his two scheming daughters plot to make Terri their new stepmother.

 

Will harsh words and sneaky plans drive Kelsey’s family further apart and put a wedge between Terri and Steve? Or does God have another plan in store?

 

PURCHASE LINKS:

Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/d9kwdcc

Barnes and Noble: http://tinyurl.com/cud7xb6

Pelican book group: http://tinyurl.com/cd5zqar

CONGRATULATIONS!!

Megan Deitchler, step right up and enjoy the fun! You won the drawing for a personally autographed, print copy of Hearts Communion as well as a $15 gift certificate to Pelican Book Group  ( www.pelicanbookgroup.com )  I hope you enjoy the book and the shopping spree!!

If you didn't win this time, don't feel bad. Beautiful Music releases in just a few weeks - on March 8th - and I'll sponsor a similar reader-lovin' contest then!! So, stay tuned, and thanks as always for your support and encouragement!

God Bless ~

Marianne

Sal's Place / Search & Rescue

Welcome to Sal's Place!

Step up to the counter, take a seat and I'll have the waitress pour some coffee while we chat about Search and Rescue.

I've always been fond of family-owned, mom-and-pop style eateries. Setting a series of inspy romances in a time-honored diner located by the Detroit Riverfront speaks of all things cozy and loving. The idea appealed to the foodie in me, and the result is a four-book series from Pelican Book Group called, you guessed it, Sal's Place.

Search and Rescue has just debuted, and I'm dying to give you all the details so you can join the journey ~ I hope you love reading these stories as much as I loved creating them!

So, make yourself at home! Enjoy the blurb and excerpt. Leave me a comment, with e-mail contact info - and you'll be entered to win a $15 gift certificate to Pelican Book Group as well as a personally autographed, print edition of Hearts Communion, Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year in Romance! Winner announced, appropriately enough, on February 14th - Valentine's Day!!!

BLURB:


Holding on for a hero...

Jennifer Foster isn’t one for fairytales. As a source of emotional support for her troubled mother she doesn’t have time.Grounded in the practicality of living day-by-day, the tenderhearted waitress loves to swap food and affection with the regulars at Detroit's legendary diner, Sal’s Place.

When a robbery at the diner sends her life spinning into the capable arms of a Detroit Police officer, Ryan Douglas steps to the forefront of her life, whether she's ready to accept his loving care or not. But Ryan contends with his own set of family difficulties and circumstances that just might overwhelm their fledgling relationship.

Will the blending of their lives, and the love they feel, bring about heartbreak, or will God’s ultimate plan be allowed to play out, and bring them both to a point of acceptance, and love’s embrace?

EXCERPT:

“Hey, Sal, Mrs. Peterson’s sending back her order of spaghetti.” Jennifer Foster put a touch of spin on the rejected plate when she slid it across the metal dividing shelf between the kitchen and service areas. “She says she wants her noodles al dente.”

Sal Cocossa scowled. He planted his fists on hips covered by a speckled white apron. “Seriously.”

“She called it a pile of mush, but go easy. She’s having a bad day. Mr. Peterson’s back in the hospital.”

Sal’s expression immediately eased. “Is it his heart again?”

Jennifer nodded.

“So, you talked to her?”

"For the past couple minutes. Poor thing. She’s pretty much a wreck about it.”

“Fifty years of marriage tend to act on a person that way.” Sal gave a nod and returned his attention to the stove, sliding and jiggling a sauté pan full of caramelizing green pepper and onion, a generous heap of crumbled, homemade sausage, and diced garlic cloves. “I’ll take care of the replacement.

"Thanks, Jenny-Lynn. You’re good people.”

Jennifer adored sixty-year-old Salvatore Cocossa, III and let him know it in the way she fluttered her lashes and smiled into his eyes. “Thanks, boss. Let’s give her al dente…and hope she doesn’t dente her teeth when she crunches into it.”

The quip inspired a spontaneous burst of Sal’s rich, chesty laughter. The reaction warmed Jennifer through.

A moment later, Sal called out the new spaghetti order then scooped up a whisk and lifted a metal bowl, scrambling up some eggs, back to work in the kitchen—master of the legendary diner, Sal’s Place.

Sal’s Place was an old fashioned, family-owned diner located on the Detroit riverfront. The restaurant had claimed its spot on the roadmap of Motown ever since the roaring twenties. Back then, Sal’s great-grandfather had opened and operated the restaurant. In those days, the juggernaut that was the industrial age had lifted Detroit to greatness and times weren’t just good—they were spectacular.

Jennifer’s glance touched upon black and white photos that chronicled the history of the diner. After ten years at Sal’s Place, she knew them by rote. The visual timeline crossed the walls like a history quilt. Her subsequent glance through the windows of the eatery told a much sadder story. Decayed buildings were barely lit against a fast descending early-autumn evening. Intermittent headlights from infrequent cars flashed against dingy bricks; some of the masonry was decorated by graffiti. To say this proud, tough city had fallen upon hard times would be gross understatement.

Battling a swell of sadness, Jennifer pulled away from the blight and returned her focus to the warm, bright atmosphere of the diner. She thought about Mrs. Peterson and sadness turned into compassion. The food at Sal’s Place was top rate; Jennifer knew there was nothing wrong with Sonya Peterson’s order, but she also realized the overburdened, elderly woman had suffered much lately. Sonya needed understanding—and a healthy dose of good fortune. Jennifer knew the feeling, so she championed the idea of cutting this warmhearted regular a bit of slack for ornery behavior.

Awaiting the new plate of food, Jennifer took in the crowd. She checked the lineup of full tables on this Saturday night. There were plenty. Then she automatically tracked back to the front door, where a line of customers were queued to be seated. The place was jumping.

She took note of two uniformed men standing at the head of the line. Glimmering silver chest badges identified them both as members of the 3rd Precinct of the Detroit PD. They were vaguely familiar—semi-regulars. Being a hometown girl, Jennifer knew there was no more gritty form of serve and protect imaginable. Crime prevention—in downtown Detroit? Her problems amounted to nothing by comparison to what these men must witness each day. Her pulse quickened in automatic reflex. Talk about nobility in the face of daunting odds.

Besides, what was it about a handsome man in a uniform?

One in particular captured her focus and held it fast. He was the taller one, who sported the stripes of a Sergeant, short raven hair and a strong, solid build. He looked her straight in the eyes then quirked his lips in a deliberate form of acknowledgement. The reaction left Jennifer to wonder if he hadn’t somehow heard the exchange with Sal.

Her brows furrowed and the striking, mahogany-eyed man gave her a nod. Something in the undercurrents of that innocent moment left Jennifer acutely aware of herself. She flushed head to toe beneath his lingering regard and promptly looked elsewhere. Snagging a coffee pot—decaf due to the time of day—she prepared to make the rounds and return for Sonya’s plate once Sal called her table ticket. It’d be best, she figured, to move on to more worthwhile pursuits than ogling.

Still, while she moved through the restaurant, Jennifer watched Celia, their long-time hostess direct the two officers toward a booth. Sure enough, they ended up at one of Jennifer’s stations. Expectation danced along her nerve endings. Determinedly she doused that reaction and clutched the handle of the steaming glass carafe. Heat stemmed from nothing more than a temporary flame of infatuation, she thought, a headiness derived from the impact of a crisp, royal blue uniform. Or, maybe it was all that tough muscle juxtaposed against those warm eyes and that soft, knowing smile…

The officers sat. When the object of Jennifer’s admiration happened to look her way, she caught her breath and spun away fast, grateful she didn’t believe in mental telepathy. Strangely enough, though, being watched by the man left her feeling as though she had landed dead-center of VIP radar…if only for a moment or two.

Well, she thought ruefully, so much for not ogling.

Intrigued?? I sure hope so! Here's where you can find Search & Rescue:

Pelican Book Group ~ Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Christian Book-DotCom

And in case you're wondering, Beautiful Music, Book 2 of Sal's Place, hits the shelves on March 8, 2013 - watch for it!

Blessings, friends, and thanks for letting me share my joy!

Clare Revell Brings Us Wednesday's Child

I love repeat visitors to the blog - and Clare Revell is always a delight. Today I'm shining a spotlight on her latest release, WEDNESDAY'S CHILD. Meet her now, then check out my review!

ABOUT CLARE REVELL

Clare lives in a small town in England with her husband, whom she married in 1992, and her three children. Writing from an early childhood and encouraged by her teachers, she graduated from rewriting fairy stories through fanfiction to using her own original characters and enjoys writing an eclectic mix of romance, crime fiction and children's stories. When she's not writing, reading, sewing or keeping house or doing the many piles of laundry her children manage to make, she's working part time in the breakfast club at one of the local schools.

She has been a Christian for more than half her life. She goes to Carey Baptist where she is one of three registrars.

She can be found at:

http://www.revell124.plus.com/clarerevell/

https://www.facebook.com/ClareRevellAuthor
https://twitter.com/ClareRevell
http://telscha.blogspot.co.uk/

BLURB

A Romantic Suspense for Every Day of the Week Wednesday's Child grieves for his soul...

Liam Page, school teacher and ex-missionary, is a man with a secret agenda. Revenge. But when he says it with flowers, and accidentally drenches a woman who just happens to be the school's landscape architect, he may have found a light in his darkness.

After an abusive relationship, Jacqui Dorne prefers work to men. It's safer. But Liam Page with his boyish charm and wounded soul, manages to change her preferences. Has God led her to Liam to help him heal?

When their growing relationship is marred by the reappearance of Jacqui's ex-boyfriend, they find themselves suddenly embroiled in a series of dangerous events which leads them to Africa and has them fighting for both love and life.

MARIANNE'S REVIEW

Any book that begins with the scripture Jeremiah 29:11-13 is going to grab my attention straight away. This formative verse is so applicable to the wonderful story Revell creates in Wednesday’s Child.

I’m enjoying her spin on a time-honored nursery rhyme and the ways in which she weaves each day’s verse into a spine-tingling suspense novel. (I have to admit: I’ve gotten sneak peeks at all of Clare’s covers for this series, and Wednesday’s Child is my favorite. What an amazing, straight on depiction of the hero! But I digress…)

Liam Page is wounded. The burdens he carries tug your heart. I love the ordained way in which he meets our more than worthy heroine, Jacqui Dorne. Their paths, we discover, were meant to intersect—not just on a professional but on a personal level as well.

Some of my favorite stories deal with the issue of why God allows bad things to happen to seemingly innocent people. Add to that theme the threat of a menacing villain and you have the recipe for a great page-turner. Revell writes with a clean style and a keen sense of romance and suspense. Balancing the two can be tricky, but in her hands and heart the combination works and engages the reader to the last page.

Revell delivers on all counts in this offering, and I look forward to Thursday’s Child – coming soon from Pelican Book Group!

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon Purchase Link
Pelican Book Group Purchase Link

DISCLAIMER: A copy of this book was provided to me free of charge by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Christmas Extravaganza Reviews - Part 2!

If you're like me, you can't get enough of Christmas! That in mind, I'm delighted to bring you round two of my peek into the Christmas Extravaganza from Pelican Book Group. Check out these titles, available to you during the month of December for just $1.00 each! What a bargain, and what great stories! Go shopping at http://www.pelicanbookgroup.com and ENJOY!

 

 

Christmas Forever – Robin Bayne

Jason hasn't seen Cami in three years. Now she's back, with the son he'd wanted to claim as his own. Can he believe her newly found faith or will she desert him, and God, again?

Review:

 

Finding your way to a new life, and rediscovering the love you lost. Those elements form the backbone of some of my favorite stories! If you feel the same, then you’re going to love Christmas Forever by Robin Bayne. It’s a gem of a novella full of the beauty of the season! Cami is a prodigal, heading home. Jason is the one she left behind—the one who has been in love with her forever. Can they find their way back? Is their love meant to be? Pick up a copy of Christmas Forever and find out! Robin Bayne’s story won’t disappoint!

She Came to See the Snow – Mary Annslee Urban

Haley Blackwell travels to Colorado with plans to relive her favorite childhood memories—including a snowy Christmas. When she meets her grandparents’ neighbor, she finds herself yearning for more than a white Christmas, but trusting men has never been easy for Haley.

After a failed marriage, and the death of his ex-wife, Tate Rivers is determined to concentrate on raising his preschool daughter, Ashlyn, and to stay clear of another relationship. He doubts he can ever trust his heart to another woman—until he meets Haley.

Despite the weather forecast that does not include snow on Christmas Day, Ashlyn prays that God will give Haley the desires of her heart. Will Haley realize Tate isn’t a man who will abandon those he loves, and will they be able to push aside the past and step forward together in love—the way God desires?

Review: 

From deepest pain the greatest joy can bloom—by the grace of God, and if we allow ourselves to accept that gift. I love that aspect of Mary Annslee Urban’s story, She Came to See the Snow. This novella features true-to-life characters who face true-to-life situations. Realism in Christian fiction is something that tends to either turn me on to a story, or make me set it aside. Haley and Tate took hold of my heart and this lovely, well-written romance won me as a reader. Grab a copy, and enjoy!

 

 

Ransomed Hope – Deborah Pierson Dill

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick…

Seventeen years ago, Ashley Turner lost her father as well as Manuel Vega, the man she loved. Since then, she’s been trying to make the best of a bad situation. Now a widow, burdened with the alcoholic brother who bankrupted the family ranch, and days from foreclosure, she’s beyond hoping for her situation to improve. Ashley knows God allows adversity for a reason, but she can’t begin to comprehend the purpose in her troubles.

“…But a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.”

When Manuel makes good on his promise to return after having been harshly turned out so many years ago, Ashley dares to hope that all is not lost. His intention is not to rescue her, however, but to pursue revenge for past wrongs. He soon discovers that his hardened heart is no match for her renewed hope.

Review: 

This beauty from ashes story was a wonderful read! Captivating! Ashley and Manuel are characters you cheer for through all the messy circumstances life can sometimes stir up. Hope, fear, wistfulness and FAITH – all four of these elements create the tapestry of a story that is sure to be on your keeper shelf. Way to go, Deborah!!!

 

 

As You Are at Christmas – Davalynn Spencer

Angela Murphy’s plans for a cozy Colorado Christmas shatter when she finds her fellow-teacher boyfriend entangled with another woman. But she goes home anyway—to her grandmother Mollie’s Berthoud Boarding House where she’s forced into tasks with Mollie’s handsome new boarder, Matt Dawson.

While temporarily rooming at the boarding house until his new furnace arrives, Matt sees through Mollie’s manipulations to pair him with her granddaughter, but he can’t complain about spending time with the beautiful gray-eyed school teacher and the mangy stray they pick up on their way home from cutting a Christmas tree. In the company of both a beauty and a beast, Matt understands more clearly the words of a long-forgotten youth leader.

Will those words draw him back to a long-forgotten God? And will Angela find that home lies not in the Victorian house of her childhood, but in the arms of the man she’s grown to love?

Review:

Sweet touches of humor and love as tender as an evening snowfall make this novella sparkle! Davalynn Spencer is a new-to-me author and I can’t wait for her next release. This story featured not just a winsome hero and heroine but a match-making grandmother who’s totally endearing! I love watching two faith-filled people triumph in love over the obstacles in their lives…even when that romance needs a bit of a kick-start in order to flourish.  ::wink!:: Kudos, Davalynn!!

 

 

Breath of Christmas - EA West

 

When Esther Beauchamp agrees to drive a snowmobile during the Santa Snow Challenge, she expects a problem-free weekend of transporting snowboarders. What she gets is the task of transporting a single snowboarder and babysitting his service dog while he’s on the slope.

Robbie Kendrick is instantly attracted to the pretty staffer who volunteered to help him during the competition. While she’s clueless about asthma, he appreciates her efforts to understand how it affects him and his snowboarding. Best of all, she treats him like a man who isn’t disabled and gets along great with his medical alert dog.

But when Robbie’s ability to compete is called into question, is it in God’s plan for him to give up the career he loves, or will his competitive spirit cause him to lose his chance at a future with Esther?

 

Review:

There is something so beautiful about the way EA West creates her stories. They tug on the heart, they depict realistic characters, and I love the unique circumstances and fresh plots she develops. EA keeps me turning the pages because I never quite know how she’s going to “pull it off” in the end. Invariably, however, there is satisfaction, joy, and hope in the pages of her stories. Breath of Christmas is no different, and it’s such a wonderful holiday treat. Grab a copy!

 

One Christmas Eve – Robin Patchen

Movie star Blake Carmichael found more than just freedom from his drug addiction in rehab. He found God. And he has just one wish for the first Christmas of his new life: reconciliation with his teenage son, Eli. But after eight years of hardly hearing from Blake, Eli wants nothing to do with his father. So when his mother forces Eli to stay with Blake during the Christmas holidays, Eli sneaks out of the house.

From the New Hampshire seacoast to the dangerous streets of Boston, Blake searches for his son, desperate to protect Eli from sins Blake knows all too well. But even if he finds his son, will he ever be able to convince Eli of his love?

Review:

 

I love stories that portray real redemption. I love stories that portray flaws that are identified and overcome (both themes give hope to us all, yes?). Robin Patchen hits the mark with deft writing and smart plotting on her debut, One Christmas Eve. Sometimes we have to *keep* overcoming our sins because of the perceptions they create. Sometimes we have to ask for forgiveness when we jump to erroneous conclusions. How beautiful that grace that leads to love, hope and reclamation! Bravo, Robin.

 

 

 

A Christmas Homecoming – MaryAnn Diorio

Seven Christmases have passed since Sonia Pettit last heard from her daughter Jody. Since Jody’s departure, Sonia’s world has been turned upside down. Her husband has died of a broken heart, and her son, bitter over his sister’s destructive actions, has become rebellious.

Her greatest desire is to have her family together at Christmas, but after what Jody has put them all through, can Sonia truly forgive her daughter?

Jody Pettit O’Dair ran away to experience a life of adventure and excitement, but since her departure, her world has been turned upside down. She’s been abandoned by the man she met and married, lost her job, and is unable to care for her two children. With nowhere else to turn, this prodigal daughter begins the long journey home and prays she will be welcomed after walking away so long ago.

Will Jody find forgiveness in the arms of her family as easily as she received it from God?

Review: 

Do you love stories about redemption and finding your way to faith, love and home? That’s part of what makes Christmas such a magical time of year, isn’t it? Restoration? The love of God? Christ’s birth in spirit and truth shining through tribulation and sin? Second chances? This offering from MaryAnn Diorio features all of that and more. This novella packs tremendous punch, and I highly recommend! It’ll restore your belief in second chances for everyone!

Whew! What a line up!!! In conclusion, and just in time for your Christmas enjoyment, I'll be posting reviews for three concluding selections of the PBG Extravaganza! Stay tuned for more great book offerings, and happy reading!!

Blessings!

A Review Extravaganza!!

Pelican Book Group has kicked off its annual "Christmas Extravaganza!" That means you can purchase absolutely fabulous novellas for a dollar each through the month of December. You might call it PBG's Christmas gift to you--a wealth of romance full of Christmas cheer at a price that's such a bargain!

To get the festivities started, I want to key you in on some of the books, what they're about, and let you know what I thought of them. That's right - it's a review extravaganza, and I hope you run out and grab your copy today! To purchase, simply visit: http://www.pelicanbookgroup.com Happy shopping!

By the way, I'm part of the fun with what I like to call my "London Romance" - Finding Home! Join me at Harrods for tea, and Trafalgar Square for caroling! Share a romantic sunset walk with my hero and heroine, Peter and Lexie, as they wander a bridge over the river Thames. I believe even Dickens would approve!

Here's more to savor:

Angel Song – Mary Manners

Down on her luck, college-educated art teacher Quinn Sanders is a single mom who's returned to Landers Hollow to raise her five-year-old daughter, Linsey. While working at the local diner, Quinn is befriended by Jason Graves. She has no idea Jason's the youth director of Landers Hollow Community Church until he asks her to lend a hand with the children's Christmas pageant.

Jason is dealing with issues of his own--a painful divorce following a doctor's confirmation that he'll never be able to father a child. Jason longs for a family of his own, but, rejected and disheartened, fears it may never come to pass.

Jason and Quinn are both searching for a Christmas miracle. What they find is sweeter than an angel's song.

Review:

Mary Manners is a “must buy” for me because her books never disappoint. Her proven talent for blending joy, tears, heart ache and a faith-filled hope shines bright in the pages of Angel Song. Quinn and Jason (and Linsey, too – the little pixie!) absolutely won my heart, but that’s Mary Manner’s gift—pulling on your heart strings while shining God’s love in her stories. Kudos, Mary! Another winner!

 

 

Everybody Loves Mickey – Therese Travis

He’s a saint with a tarnished halo, and Aubrey Thomas can’t stand him…or can she?

Handsome fireman, Mickey Hurst is loved by all. He volunteers at the local parish where Aubrey Thomas works as an administrator. He sings in the choir. He leads the youth group. He even acts as the church handyman, but Aubrey knew him before he became Saint Mickey—when he told her he’d have to be drunk to kiss her…and he was. What’s so infuriating is that despite his horrible admission, Aubrey loves Mickey as much as everybody else.

Mickey doesn’t blame Aubrey for disliking him. After all, he kissed her when he wasn’t sober—and insulted her, to boot. Aubrey deserved a better man—a Godly man. But, since that fateful kiss, Mickey’s drawn closer to the Lord. With the intercession of God and the matchmaking parish staff, Mickey prays that this Christmas he will be able to prove to Aubrey he’s now the man for her.

Review:

What impressed me most about the novella Everybody Loves Mickey is the realistic and dimensional way Ms. Travis creates her characters. With a deft hand at description and plot, she draws us into the world of two opposed characters – one with a tainted past, another operating on the assumption that, pardon the cliché, ‘leopards just might not change their spots…’ The end result is a Christmas story full of magic, and redemption. Enjoy!!

An Aussie Christmas Angel – Clare Revell

On an extended holiday from the UK, John Connington finds himself in Sydney, Australia with no lodging, and only a telephone number from a friend-of-a-friend offering him a place to stay. Trusting that God knows what He’s doing, John makes the call.

Jo Heywood can’t believe the audacity of John Connington, yet when her flat mate knows of this obscure offer, there's nothing Jo can do. She’s not prepared for the avalanche of feelings this stranger elicits. Not impressed by God’s sense of humour, Jo fights how she feels.

Can a long distance relationship really work or is God just testing them both?

Review:

Most folks know I’m a fan of Clare Revell’s. She’s a remarkable author with a fabulous repertoire of Christian romantic suspense novels. However, this time she offers us a trip to the land down under rather than a dose of murder and mayhem. She takes us to Australia, and treats us to the charming love story of Jo and John – a pair who are destined to be together, despite horrendous logistics and questions about how they can blend the lives they’ve created on separate sides of the globe. This story resounded with faith, hope and romance. Can long-distance relationships work? Read An Aussie Christmas Angel and find out for yourself! Bravo, Clare – great job!

 

 

Dr. Noah and the Sugar Plum Fairy – Carla Rossi

College senior and not-so-ex-ballerina Jane Trumbull is home for Christmas break. She welcomes the joyful chaos of a happy family holiday – then the rollercoaster of emotions begins.

Veterinarian Dr. Noah Barron hopes his return to Texas and his new clinic will help him forget about his dark days in California. But he can’t outrun unresolved issues and doesn’t know how lonely he really is – until he meets slightly clumsy Un-Plain Jane.

Can Jane and Noah learn to share who they really are and what they really want? And can they allow God to send joy after sorrow, hope for hidden dreams, and healing for past wounds?

Review:

I’m a Carla Rossi fan from way back. Her books are some of the first I ever read from White Rose Publishing, and spotting Carla’s talent is a large part of what made me want to write for this publisher. I figured, if WRP endorsed work this good, then I wanted to try to be part of their ranks as well!! She didn’t disappoint with her latest novella, a Christmas release that is sure to warm your heart, tickle your funny bone, and leave you sighing with delight. A charming plotline and delightful characters kept me turning the pages and left me bummed when the story came to an end, only because I wanted more! KUDOS, Carla – keep up the great work!

 

 

Meet Me Under the Mistletoe – JoAnn Durgin

Jacob Marston, Starlight, Iowa's hometown hero made a long-ago promise to the Lord: he won't kiss a woman until he knows she's "the one." Now at age twenty-eight, the rugged firefighter questions if it'll ever happen. Then, he meets his best friend's sister, and Jake believes he's found the woman of his dreams. But what will she think when she discovers his vow?

When Julia makes an unexpected confession on Christmas Day, Jake shares his secret with her, and it looks as though happily-ever-after will make a holiday appearance.

But somehow, everyone in the tiny town of Starlight learns Jake’s secret, and he's instantly transformed from town hero to laughingstock. Did Julia reveal his secret? Can Jake forget the humiliation and find his way under the mistletoe to share a forever kiss with Julia?

Review:

I love finding my way to new and talented authors! JoAnn Durgin is just such a recent discovery for me. With heart, wit, faith and hope, she develops a charming story of second chances driven by winsome characters wrapped by a plot that kept me turning the pages, eager to find out what happened next! I look forward to reading more from this gifted writer!

Southern Fried Christmas – Marian Merritt

Love: purer than Colorado snow, deeper than a Louisiana bayou.

The Colorado Rockies have always been home to journalist Kelly Shepherd, but after the death of her father, and facing her first Christmas alone, she accepts an assignment that leads her deep into Louisiana’s Cajun country.

Since his wife’s death, Denny Labouve has focused his attention on his ten-year-old daughter and the family business, but Kelly sparks the dying embers of his heart even as a Christmas cold front moves through his beloved Cajun country.

Will Denny and Kelly be able to trust God to bridge the span between the Colorado Rockies and the Louisiana bayou?

Review:

Marian Merritt is a ‘new to me’ author that has landed straight onto my ‘to buy list’ for subsequent releases. I can’t wait to read more from this talented author who has a beautiful way of capturing scene, setting, and dialogue. I felt like I was in N’Orleans for Christmas when I read her novella, Southern Fried Christmas (how awesome is that title?!?). Love lost, love found, and starting life anew form the backdrop of the story – and it’s one I highly recommend.

 

Those are the review to now - but stay tuned!! There are more to come. Pelican Book Group is jam-packed with Christmas gifts. In the days ahead, I look forward to sharing additional reviews and great books with you!!

 

Blessings ~

 

Marianne