Today's book hangover is... The Lady and the Lionheart by Joanne Bischoff Wow! That was all I could originally say when I finished this book! It took me a while to process my thoughts and be able to write my review. About the BookTwo worlds collide when the circus comes to Victorian-era Virginia. Raised amid the fame and mystique of the Big Top, Charlie Lionheart holds the audience in the palm of his hand. But while his act captivates thousands, it’s away from the spotlight where his true heart lies. Here he humbly cares for his pride of lions as if they were his brothers, a skill of bravery and strength that has prepared him for his most challenging feat yet—freeing an orphaned infant from the dark bondage of a sideshow. A trade so costly, it requires his life in exchange for hers, leaving him tarnished by the price of that choice. As the circus tents are raised on the outskirts of Roanoke, nurse Ella Beckley arrives to tend to this Gypsy girl. All under the watchful eye of a guardian who not only bears a striking resemblance to the child, but who protects the baby with a love that wraps around Ella’s own tragic past, awakening a hope that goodness may yet reign. When their forbidden friendship deepens, Charlie dares to ask for her heart, bringing her behind the curtain of his secret world to reveal the sacrifice that gave hope to one little girl—boldly showing Ella that while her tattered faith is deeply scarred, the only marks that need be permanent are his own. Check out my review of The Lady and the Lionheart HERE! About the AuthorA Carol Award and two-time Christy Award-finalist, Joanne Bischof writes deeply layered fiction that tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. She was honored to receive the SDCWG Novel of the Year Award in 2014 and in 2015 was named Author of the Year by the Mount Hermon Writer’s conference. Her 2014 novella This Quiet Sky broke precedent as the first self-released title to final for the Christy Awards. She lives in the mountains of Southern California with her husband and their three children. A Snippet from the Book...Roanoke, Virginia Spring, 1890 WITH THE HISS of smoothing irons and the starchy scent of soap trailing her, Ella toted a bundle of hospital linenes up the steps. Snowy evening light whispered cool and gray through the stairwell window of the converted townhouse, and after an afternoon spent below ground, even the sight of fog and gentle flakes bolstered her spirit. Something so simple, but these days--years, really--she was thankful for anything. The wind curled the snow in swirles down the street and she halted at a flash of color drifting along with it. A string of pennants. Wet with the weather, the vibrant strand of cheery flags tumbled along the snow. Ella stepped closer to the window, but they vanished from sight. What are you currently reading? What is your most recent book hangover? Grand FInale Blitz: Protecting the Single Mom by Catherine Lanigan (Harlequin Heartwarming)
4/10/2017
On Tour with Prism Book Tours. Book Tour Grand Finale for Protecting the Single Mom By Catherine Lanigan We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops, go back and check them out... Launch - The Dangerous Tour Hi, and welcome to my Prism Tour for “Protecting the Single Mom”. I’ll bet you’re wondering why I chose this tour title for a Heartwarming story in little old sweet small town Indian Lake, right? Right off the bat, let me tell you that in the real world, there are a lot of dangers, but falling in love, now that’s a real risk. How many people get married for all the wrong reasons? Just check the divorce statistics. In my opinion, love is too often discarded and other “sensible choices” enter the picture. Risking your heart for a lifetime with another person? It’s not practical. It’s nonsensical and yet, we all dream of that one true love. Our soul mate. Our adored one that we will spend all of this lifetime sharing, caring and creating, sigh, a family. Thoughts of a Blonde - Review "We are quickly drawn in to the story of a woman on the run who thought she could finally relax and enjoy life again … only to have her maniac of an ex show back up to terrorize her. A cast of great characters, many of whom we’ve gotten to know in past books in the series, makes a solid story." Katie's Clean Book Collection - The Dangerous Life of a Drug Task Detective There’s not a city, town or hamlet in the United States that are not affected by illegal drug sales, drug addiction, overdoses and drug related deaths. For all the families struggling with this horror, and mine is no exception, drug addiction of a loved one can be overwhelming, frightening and yes, dangerous. Rockin' Book Reviews - Review "I really like this story. I like the suspense in it and thought the characters were well-developed and fun to follow. . . . It was a great story and I would recommend it to other readers."Book Lover in Florida - Excerpt Every protective bone in Trent’s body ached for Cate. Of all the calls, all the assignments he’d been given over the years, this one reverberated inside him like church bells on a summer morning. It didn’t take a genius to understand that his reaction was all about the woman. Not that she was defenseless, but that she’d been so strong for years. Like a stalwart angel against all odds, she’d chosen to obliterate her old life and don a new one. Rainy Day Reviews - Review "This was a "damsel in distress" type book where the damsel is no damsel but does need help because she is in distress. But she is trying her very best to keep things orderly and clean. This author was a new for me, but after reading this book, I really enjoyed her writing so I'll be reading more of her books! It was suspenseful, heroic, intense, and loving. What a great mix!" Zerina Blossom's Books - Excerpt Cate took a sip and raised an eyebrow. “This is delicious. Really good.” “Thanks.” Trent wondered if he was blushing. He’d couldn’t remember blushing before, but suddenly his cheeks felt hot. And the heat wasn’t from the cocoa. Hearts & Scribbles - The Dangerous Life of Being on the Run - Cate For quite some time, I’ve been playing with the idea of Cate Sullivan not really being Cate Sullivan. I introduced her as the realtor in the very first book, LOVE SHADOWS, in this series. She was a friend to Luke Bosworth when his wife was alive and then she helped sell his house after her death. She was empathetic and related well to his children. Harlie's Books - Review "Oh my gosh. Stop what you are doing now and buy this book. Don’t put it on the TBR pile. Pour yourself a glass of wine, or ice tea, get comfy and spend a couple of hours in complete bliss with Trent, Cate, and Danny. You will thank me later and you’re welcome. Of course, since this is my first book in the series, I need to go and get Sophie’s and Katia’s books. Yes, this book is that good that I want to read the other books. I’m a series reader. Yes, I admit it. And even though, Ms. Lanigan does a great job of letting us know about the other characters in town, I really want to read their stories, too." Reading Is My SuperPower - Review "Protecting the Single Mom is Catherine Lanigan at her best! The characters are dimensional and their stories are both heartbreaking and inspiring. Bits of humor provide a break in the suspense-driven tension, and a sweet-but-sizzling romance adds its own sort of tension to the mix. Fans of the series will enjoy visiting with familiar faces (of which Mrs. Beabots continues to be my favorite and the most intriguing), but this book can easily be read as a stand alone too." Mel's Shelves - Review "This is the seventh book in this series and only the third one I've read. It stands well on its own. There are characters from the other books that are mentioned and it was fun to catch up with the ones I knew. I enjoyed the pacing and the blend of romance, action, danger, and character development. This is a great read for fans of clean, contemporary romantic suspense!" Kati's Bookaholic Rambling Reviews - The Danger of Secrets - Trent It was then that I saw first-hand this very human and male response to PTSD. He’d tried everything to get help and he felt he had been helped. But after all these years, he was still haunted by the death of his buddies. The struggle these men and women must go through is monumental. It is not the “stuff” of books that I use just to make a story interesting. This is real life. And it is tragic. underneath the covers - Excerpt “About what?” She took a small step toward him. Could anyone be this beautiful? No makeup, her hair rumpled from the cap. Trent felt as if he’d walked into a dream. “The rowing. You were beautiful. I mean, er, it was beautiful to watch you…all…out there.” She chuckled lightly—a tinkling sound carried on the wind. Wishful Endings - The Danger of Risking Your Heart The inherent risk of falling in love is why I adore romances, the ones I write and the one’s I gobble up by the dozens every month. I listen to sad, torchy “cowboy” songs about breakups and fear, and that final leap of faith that the lovers blindly make. The Silver Dagger Scriptorium - The Danger of A Secret Life - Cate Though Cate was newly pregnant when she hitchhiked into Indian Lake, she was befriended by Captain Redbeard and his wife, Julie, who own the Marina and the attached Marina Mini Mart. When they asked her name, she didn’t give her real name, Susan Kramer, she said, “Cate Sullivan.” She had come up with it so naturally, and from that moment Cate began making her new life and for her, changing her name had been an important part. Heidi Reads... - Excerpt She put her arms around his neck and pulled him closer. If she could stay here, kissing Trent, she didn’t have to think about nightmares and a murderous ex-husband. At this moment, she lived another lie—that she was worthy of having a real love with a man like Trent. Singing Librarian Books - Review "Lanigan’s characters are brought to life in a way that readers can easily relate to them. Readers will also thoroughly enjoy the delightful and enjoyable family dynamic, including fantastic kid characters. This story also has plenty of suspense and romance too. Readers will not want to miss this next instalment in this engaging series. I would recommend this novel to readers that enjoy contemporary romance stories with great family dynamics, as well as mystery." Nicole's Book Musings - The Dangerous Side of Life in a Small Town In PROTECTING THE SINGLE MOM, Trent makes reference to some of the reasons that Indian Lake has such a drug problem. These reasons are not fiction. They are fact. One of the most notable is that residents of small towns have a tendency to believe that drug-lords would not be interested in their “little town.” After all, there aren’t that many people who would buy the drugs, right? A city offers more of that “kind” of person/addict—they think. Hardcover Feedback - Review "Protecting the Single Mom was an enjoyable read, one I think fans of contemporary fiction will enjoy. This story stands on its own, so you don't have to read previous books first, but I do want to read the earlier ones someday." Becky on Books - Interview Welcome, Catherine! What 5 things should readers know about you? 1. I’m a voracious reader. I wish I had more hours in the day to read even more, but I DO have to write. 2. I work full time and write full time if that’s possible—meaning 40 hours at each job give or take a few hours here and there to buy groceries. 3. I iron my sheets and pillowcases. It’s mindless work and I get a ton of ideas. You think it’s the spray starch? I use lavender scented. 4. I never, ever work anymore without my essential oils diffuser going right next to my computer. 5. My son and his family and then friends come first in my life. I’ll drop everything to help. Though I may pack my laptop on any and all trips. Don't forget to enter the giveaway below, if you haven't already... Protecting the Single Mom Shores of Indian Lake #7 Catherine Lanigan Adult Contemporary Romance Paperback & ebook, 384 pages April 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming Getting involved shouldn't be this dangerous… Cate Sullivan is no damsel in distress. She's kept herself and her son safe for six long years. Built a good life in Indian Lake. But now that her drug-dealing ex-husband is moving his operation here, that life is about to explode. Her instincts tell her to trust Detective Trent Davis. That he's more than just a handsome cop doing his duty. The former Green Beret has even formed a fast bond with her son. But there's something he's not telling her. Some darkness that keeps him from giving in to the feelings she knows are growing between them. Cate trusts Trent to keep her safe, but the real question is whether he'll trust himself with her heart. Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin Advanced Review for Protecting the Single Mom This is an exceptional romantic fiction novel that inspires women to achieve their dreams and warms the hearts of the romantics. It is a beautifully well-written story with a clean context. It is suitable for anybody who loves a good romance and yearns to be inspired to make a change in their circumstances. - Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite Tour Schedule March 27th: Thoughts of a Blonde & Katie's Clean Book Collection March 28th: Rockin' Book Reviews & Book Lover in Florida March 29th: Rainy Day Reviews & Zerina Blossom's Books March 30th: Hearts & Scribbles & Harlie's Books April 2nd: Hardcover Feedback & Reading Is My SuperPower April 3rd: Mel's Shelves & Kati's Bookaholic Rambling Reviews April 4th: underneath the covers & Wishful Endings April 5th: The Silver Dagger Scriptorium, Heidi Reads... & Singing Librarian Books April 6th: Nicole's Book Musings & Becky on Books April 7th: Grand Finale
Other Books in the Series
About the Author Catherine Lanigan is the international bestselling and award-winning author of forty published titles in both fiction and non-fiction, including the novelizations of Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile, as well as over half a dozen anthologies, including “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living your Dream”, “Chicken Soup for the Writer’s Soul”, and more. Ms. Lanigan’s novels have been translated into dozens of languages including German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, and Japanese. Ms. Lanigan’s novels are also available in E-books on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com, Apple Store, Mobi and Kobo. Several of her titles have been chosen for The Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Clubs. Her Vietnam war-based novel, The Christmas Star, won the Gold Medal Award Top Pick from Romantic Times Magazine and has also won Book of the Year Romance Gold Award from ForeWord Magazine as well as Book of the Year Romance from Reader’s Preference.
Lanigan is the author of a trilogy of non- fiction books regarding angelic intervention in human life: Angel Watch, Divine Nudges and Angel Tales published by HCI and Cedar Fort. Skyhorse published Lanigan’s “how-to” book on writing: Writing the Great American Romance Novel. Lanigan was tasked by the NotMYkid Foundation to write a non-fiction book addressing teen addictions. Ms. Lanigan’s first Young Adult adventure novel, The Adventures of Lillie and Zane: The Golden Flute, was published by Cedar Fort.
Currently, she has published seven novels in the Shores of Indian Lake series for Harlequin Heartwarming: Love Shadows, Heart’s Desire, A Fine Year for Love, Katia’s Promise, Fear of Falling and Sophie’s Path. Protecting the Single Mom pubs April, 2016. She has recently contracted for two more in the series: Wedding for Isabelle and A Bride for Mica.
As a cancer survivor, Ms. Lanigan is a frequent speaker at literary functions and book conventions as well as inspiring audiences with her real stories of angelic intervention from her Angel Tales series of books. She is an outspoken advocate for domestic violence and abuse and was honored by The National Domestic Violence Hotline in Washington, D.C. (THE EVOLVING WOMAN). She has been a guest on numerous radio programs including “Coast to Coast” and on television interview and talk show programs as well as blogs, podcasts and online radio interview programs.
Tour Giveaway - 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally) - 1 winner will receive a tote bag and three Shores of Indian Lake books: Katia's Promise, Fear of Falling and Sophie's Path (US only) - Ends April 11th a Rafflecopter giveaway
Just the Way You Are (Pleasant Gap Romance #1) by Pepper D. Basham -- Book Tour Review + Giveaway
4/7/2017
About the BookSingle mom, Eisley Barrett, prefers to keep romance safely housed within a centuries-old mystery, but when she travels to England to unearth the secret, an actor with a sordid past offers her reluctant heart a very different type of discovery. Wes Harrison has a past he’s ashamed to confess. Suspicious and cynical, he’s managed to avoid romantic entanglements since a tragedy upended his career and life, that is until American Eisley Barrett comes along. Her authenticity and kindness upend his bitter assumptions and send his heart into unscripted territory. When his past threatens to ruin a second chance at love, can some Appalachian matchmaking and letters from the grace salvage their unexpected romance? About the AuthorPepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes novels inspired by her love for history and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Her Penned in Time series has garnered recognition in the Inspys, Grace Awards, and the ACFW Carol Awards. Her contemporary romance novel, A Twist of Faith, received 4-stars from Romantic Times, and most recently, her newest release, The Thorn Healer, received a Top Pick from RT with 4 ½ stars. Her newest contemporary romance, Just the Way You Are, releases in April 2016. Guest Post from Pepper Basham Thank you so much for featuring my newest novel, Just the Way You Are, on CelebrateLit. I am THRILLED to be a part of this and to share a story that is very dear to my heart. Just the Way You Are is my first ‘true’ Britallachian romantic comedy. Even though I’ve written comedy in some of my other novels and included elements of both Appalachia and Britain, this one embodies the tag #britallachian to the core. For those of you who’ve read some of my previous books, you know I’m a big fan of my native Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian culture. You may also know that I’m a proud Anglophile. Those two loves met in Just the Way You Are – and I tossed lots of other things I love best into the mix. What are those ingredients, you might ask? Well, let me just tell ya! Just the Way You Are is a blend of Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian culture, big (hilarious) family dynamics, matchmaking, Britain, a swoony English hero, a quirky, magnanimous heroine, a bunch of adorable kids, Scooby Doo and Indiana Jones references, lots of humor, a historical mystery, a devious villainess, stately manor houses, secret rooms, love letters, and matchmaking all rolled into one…oh, and did I mention brain-numbing romance? (Did anyone else feel the need to add “fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, miracles, true love….” From the Princess Bride?) J I don’t think I included torture, giants, or monsters in Just the Way You Are…but I may have the other elements in this novel J Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating about the brain-numbing, but I do have a tendency to err on the side of overly dramatic J Within the pages of Just the Way You Are, you’ll meet people from my own family, people from my imagination, and some people who stepped into the story without one ounce of my planning to ever meet them. This story came out of my desire to write something I love reading – spicy romance, clean humor, culture clashes, the big love of family, and redemption. How did my heroine Eisley Barrett evolve? Out of thin air. I was washing dishes one afternoon and staring out the window into our small backyard with the Blue Ridge Mountains painting a purplish-blue frame on the horizon when I closed my eyes. Into my imagination came this ginger-headed woman walking through Heathrow International Airport pulling a hot pink bag behind her…and then, she tripped and fell. That was it. That’s how I was introduced to my insecure, hilarious, romance-loving, single-mom heroine. And the dashing hero? Okay, this may sound ridiculous, but I was watching an interview about Richard Armitage (Thoron Oakenshield, Guy of Gisborne, etc) regarding his lovely costume drama North and South where he plays a very dashing British hero. Anyway, he was SUCH a gentleman to watch during the interview. So polite. Kind. Funny, in a sweet way, and then, out of the blue, he said the word ‘gosh’. I know, that may not be a big deal to anyone but me, but after watching celebrity interviews where every other word needed a censor, the very fact that this elegant man used the word ‘gosh’, sent my writing brain into motion. My first internal question? What if a movie star with a tender heart had been burned by the pretension and expectation of celebrity status? What kind of woman could touch a heart who’d lost his faith in love’s authenticity? Enter my red-head single-mom toting her pink bag through Heathrow and you have the very beginning of Just the Way You Are – a story of forgiveness, second chances…and a little bit of movie magic. ReviewJust the Way You Are, book one in the Pleasant Gap Romance series is a delightful and swoon worthy romance story that readers will thoroughly enjoy. This is a charming and funny story about an unlikely pair, a single mom, Eisley, from the Appalachian Mountains and British movie star, Wes Harrison. It is about how a friendship and a second chance at love takes place. It discusses having trust issues in romantic relationships, as well as how people make mistakes. This story is beautifully written and has lots of memorable lines, such as “Gracious sakes! I squished a grandpa.” Readers will immediately fall in love with the characters and the story, not wanting to put the book down until the last page is turned. Genre: contemporary, romance, inspirational, Christian Publisher: Indie Publication date: April 6, 2017 Number of pages: 315 Content Rating: PG Book Rating: 5 stars A review copy of this book was provided by CelebrateLit. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own. GiveawayTo celebrate her tour, Pepper is giving away a Grand Prize consisting of: A ‘chest’ – in JTWYA historical letters are discovered in a chest that relates to the historical storyline, so all of these lovely goodies are going to be safely inside this chest. Chocolate – several references take place in JTWYA that compare the hero to chocolate A plaque about family – because that’s a main point of importance in JTWYA A Spider-man zipper pull – Pete, the heroine’s son, is a major Spider-man fan. English Breakfast Tea – The hero is English…swoony English A dishcloth – again, something that relates to a scene in the book regarding the hero and dishes (twice) Stirring spoon and measuring cups – food and cooking are a big part of Appalachian culture and fellowship, something celebrated in JTWYA A notebook – Eisley (the heroine) is taking notes about a historical family mystery A lovely container full of cloth flowers (for fun, and beauty) – the container says – Love and you will be loved. Loving others has an amazing way to find its way back to us (as is what happens in JTWYA) A little plaque that reads “You are Loved” – a theme of this story A beautiful lace doily from England (the English part of the story) Some “Pixie Dust” a fun visualization of the ‘magic’ of romance in this story and A copy of Just the Way You Are!! Click HERE to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! Tour ScheduleApril 6: Reading Is My SuperPower
April 6: cherylbbookblog April 6: Fiction Aficionado April 7: Book Reviews From an Avid Reader April 7: Smiling Book Reviews April 7: Singing Librarian Books April 8: Bookworm Mama April 8: my site/autism mom April 9: Quiet Quilter April 9: Inklings and notions April 10: Faithfully Bookish April 10: Back Porch Reads April 11: Robin’s Nest April 11: Christian Chick’s Thoughts April 12: Blogging With Carol April 12: Just the Write Escape April 13: Cordially Barbara April 13: Moments Dipped in Ink April 14: His Grace is Sufficient April 14: A Greater Yes April 15: Just Commonly April 15: 100 Pages per Hour April 16: Book by Book April 16: A Baker’s Perspective April 17: Splashes of Joy April 17: Christian Bookaholic April 17: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations April 18: Karen Sue Hadley April 18: History Mystery & Faith April 18: Through the Open Window April 19: Henry Happens April 19: Baker Kella April 19: Daysong Reflections
Karen Sargent creates characters whose imperfect faith collides with real-life conflicts, taking readers on a journey through grace and redemption to discover enduring hope. A romantic element is woven within each story. In addition to writing inspirational novels, she blogs at The MOM Journey, where moms aren't perfect and that's perfectly okay. Her writing has also been featured in Guidepost’s Angels on Earth magazine. When she's not writing, Karen teaches high school and college English and resides in the beautiful Arcadia Valley with her husband and two daughters.
Check out the interview HERE.
We all know the old adage, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” But isn’t that exactly what we do? Long before I signed with my publisher, I had a vision for my book cover. I also had a former student, Kinsley, who is a graphic artist. So with my contract in hand and pen poised to sign, I asked my publisher if Kinsley could submit a book cover for consideration. The publisher reminded me an in-house designer would be assigned to my book, but then they surprised me and agreed to “consider” an outside submission.
After I shared my vision with Kinsley, I discovered graphic design is an art—not magic—that required content. I needed a little blonde girl to model, a professional photoshoot, and a budget. I didn’t know a little girl who was the right age with the right color hair with the right “look,” and my book budget was already in the red. So I convinced myself the publisher’s cover design would be fine. Fine. But disappointment cast a shadow over me for weeks as I continued to dream about my vision. Finally told myself, “Get over it.” That same night as I crawled into bed, a name popped into my thoughts. Briar. I hadn’t seen Briar since she was a baby. I calculated. She would be about four. Was her hair blonde like her big sister’s was when she was little? Did she have curls? The next morning I texted Briar’s mom, Ashley, who is also a former student and who now teaches in the same school district as me: “I have a strange question. Is Briar’s hair blonde and curly?” Ashley texted back a picture. Perfect! I explained what I needed and that I’d pay for the photoshoot as well as for a little white dress for Briar to wear. Ashley texted back: “No need to pay. We have family pictures scheduled for tomorrow with Heidi.” Tomorrow! With Heidi, the same photographer I had planned to hire! I immediately contacted Heidi to describe my vision. She turned my excitement into her own and said, “I know exactly what you want.” But she didn’t. The next afternoon when Heidi sent me the photo, it wasn’t what I had envisioned at all. It was 100 times better! I had wanted a little girl standing in a field with butterflies swarming toward her. Instead, Heidi snapped this sweet picture of Briar and then placed a butterfly graphic in her hands. Although she had taken several shots, this is the only one she sent me because she knew—and so did I—this was the one! And as soon as Kinsley saw it, she knew it, too. She put her amazing talent to work and created the final masterpiece. I loved the cover so much…we all loved the cover…but would the publisher? On the day the publishing team met to accept or reject our design, I checked my email every three minutes. Finally the email arrived. I held my breath as I clicked it open and read the final decision: “This cover captures the very essence of the story.” I’m sure a cover by the in-house designer would have been fine…even fabulous. But this, this is a “work of heart” because so many people are a part of it—former students, colleagues, friends. I hope potential readers judge my book by its cover!
Although I don’t write romances, a strong romantic thread runs through every story I create because I’m a romantic at heart. On the rare occasion when I can pop a movie into the Blu-Ray, chances are the movie is one of these:
1. This story was inspired by the death of my mother-in-law, who died suddenly and too soon at 61. I wondered, “What if a mother is taken from her family before she is ready to go?” The answer became Waiting for Butterflies.
2. My protagonist is a “lingering spirit,” which some Christian readers might question. After all, we go to Heaven when we die. But…what if God decided to allow a person (like Maggie) to return for some reason? Does the Bible clearly state that is not possible…if God wanted to allow it? I couldn’t find a clear answer, which left just enough wiggle room for my imagination to play. 3. It took me 11 years to decide to write Waiting for Butterflies. When I finally started, writing was easy because I had been imagining the story for so long, and it was fun to finally meet the characters who had been living in my head. 4. The original title of the book was Her Children Shall Rise Up, in reference to Proverbs 31. Then I saw a quote on a journal in a bookstore that inspired the new title. Waiting for Butterflies adds a layer of symbolism and meaning, and without it, the story would not have been the same. 5. I enjoyed naming the minor characters because I borrowed a first name or a last name from people I know. However, the characters have their own identities and personalities. I can’t wait to see if my friends, family, or former students recognize my “shout out” to them! 6. Some of the best twists in the story weren’t planned. I would be busy with something other than writing, and then an idea would suddenly pop into my head. It was always such a surprise! 7. Although it’s not the usual practice, my publisher agreed to let me submit a cover for consideration. I shared my vision with a photographer friend of mine, which inspired her even-better vision. She snapped the photo of the adorable cover model, who is the daughter of a former student. Then I sent the photo to another former student who worked her graphic art magic. I call my cover “a work of heart.” (By the way, the publisher loved it!) 8. My husband hasn’t read my book and probably never will since it’s women’s fiction, unless an ESPN sportscaster recommends it on TV. However, nobody is more proud of my book than he is. 9. People often ask if the characters in my book are similar to my family. In some ways, yes. In many ways, no. Maggie’s fear of losing a child—or being taken from her family while they still need her—are my deepest fears. Sam’s occupation and the sense of responsibility he feels to protect his family are similar to my husband’s. Rachel is an eclectic mix of my daughters—Randi’s creativity, Kelli’s perfectionism—colored by my experience with teens in crisis that I’ve encountered throughout 23 years of teaching high school students. Otherwise, the characters have their own identities, virtues, and flaws. 10. I thought I’d feel like an author once I held Waiting for Butterflies in my hand. But it doesn’t feel like my book. It just feels like I’m holding a book—someone else’s book. (I still can’t believe it.)
Introducing Maggie & Sam
“What are you writing?”
She clasped the journal before tucking it into the side table drawer. “Oh, just…stuff. You know—” “Stuff? I’ll never get that, Mags. When something bothers you, you write. When something bothers me, I need to hit golf balls or chop wood, work through it.” Sam grabbed her hands and pulled her to him. “Yes, that’s what you always say.” Her smile was gentle. “But it’s not just writing, remember? It’s praying, too.” “Yeah, I don’t get that either. But that’s okay. Praying about a problem is your department; doing something about a problem, that’s my department.” Sam’s arms encircled her waist and her body settled into his. His familiar scent was therapy.
Introducing Rachel
“This will be a partner project.”
In most classes those words signaled doom for Rachel, but not science, the only class she shared with her best friend. Quickly she scanned the faces in the lab until she locked eyes with Kristen, sealing their partnership. *** Kristen wrinkled her nose. “You’re such a nerd.” Rachel pushed her elbow into her friend. “I know.” And she did know; somehow she was different. In the hallway, in the classroom, in the cafeteria, she looked normal, just like everyone else. But there was something intangible, something she couldn’t verbalize, that made her peculiar, peculiar in a way Kristen tolerated and some called freaky. Only her mother celebrated her uniqueness, and her words--creative, brilliant, gifted—drowned out the snickers that sometimes followed Rachel in the halls.
Introducing Olivia
“Okay, Lambie, you get to sleep up here by my pillow next to Horsey.” She put her mouth against Lambie’s ear, and her voice lowered to a raspy whisper. “Because you’re my favorite.” Then she picked up a bear and placed him on the other side of her pillow. “Teddy, you go right here. And Baby, I’ll hold you.” She wrapped her arm around a stuffed doll wearing a diaper and a blue bonnet. Then she patted the edge of her bed and addressed them all. “We’ll save this place for Mommy. She can lay with us when she gets tired.”
*** Olivia moved her stuffed lamb closer on the pillow. “She said maybe she saw Heaven, but she isn’t sure.” She turned to face Sam. “Mommy said it’s gonna be beautiful.” Hairs tingled on the back of his neck. Olivia’s imagination was remarkable, tempting even him to get caught up in her make-believe. But this had to end. “Honey, you know, people who believe in Heaven think that’s where they go when they die…And, your mom, well, if she were to see Heaven, it would mean she would have to die.” “She did die, Daddy.” Her blue eyes were wide and honest. What was going on in Olivia’s little mind? How could he help her sort this out? “Well, if you know Mommy died, why do you keep pretending she’s still here?” It was a gentle question, but he couldn’t mask the accusation in his voice. “I’m not pretending. She is here.” Olivia squeezed her fists as she hugged her doll tighter. “She died. She just didn’t go away. She doesn’t know why.”
Author Karen Sargent has written a stunning and emotionally engaging novel in Waiting for Butterflies. This story deals with raw emotions, dealing with grief, pain, loss, sorrow, healing, love, joy, and family bonds. The family dynamics in this story are absolutely beautiful. Readers will immediately fall in love with the family. And the children characters are fantastic. Bringing a whole new dynamic to this amazing story. Sargent brings to life real-to-life feelings that readers will easily understand and relate to. This is a powerful and inspiring novel that readers are not going to want to miss.
Genre: contemporary, romance, Christian, ghost story Publisher: Walrus Publishing Publication date: April 4, 2017 Number of pages: 296 Content Rating: PG Book Rating: 5 stars
A review copy of this book was provided by the author via SLB Tours. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Book Launch Giveaway on the Author's Website
Enter the giveaway HERE.
March 29--Christian Bookaholic | Katie's Clean Book Collection
March 30--Paulette's Papers | Faithfully Bookish March 31--Zerina Blossom's Books April 3--Book by Book | Soulfully Romantic April 4--Mel's Shelves April 5--Debbie's Dusty Deliberations April 6--Smiling Book Reviews April 7--Singing Librarian Books April 10--cherylbbookblog | Fiction Aficionado April 11--Puddletown Reviews April 12--Reading Is My SuperPower Grab the book nearest to you and leave a comment with the first line! Today I am going to post a paragraph from Courting Carrie in Wonderland by Carla Kelly "Is kissing against the army regulations?" Check out this cute historical romance novel from Best-Selling Author Carla Kelly. Struggling through college and balancing her summer job in Yellowstone Park with the Wylie Camping Company, Carrie McKay simply doesn't have time to consider romance. Spanish American War Veteran Sergeant Major Ramsay Stiles also isn't looking for love, busy with his own complicated affairs. But as the magic of Yellowstone starts making its way into their hearts, both begin to see love move up their priority list. My first paragraph: April 14, 1903 Full dress uniform? Check. Xerxes brushed to a fare-three-well, including a new saddle blanket? Check. That medal on his chest centered properly by the wife of B Company's first sergeant? Check. What are you reading? What is your first line?
Open the book nearest you and post the first line in the comments below... Now head on over and join these lovely ladies in First Line Fridays on their blogs too: Reading is My SuperPower | Bookworm Mama | Faithfully Bookish Radiant Light | Encouraging Words from the Tea Queen | All the Book Blog Names are Taken Robin's Nest | Fiction Aficionado | Bibliophile Reviews Kathleen Denly | Lauraine's Notes | With a Joyful Noise | A Baker's Perspective (If you’d like to join us on your blog for First Line Fridays, shoot me a message and let me know!) Today's book hangover is... Just the Way You Are by Pepper D. Basham This is book one in the Pleasant Gap Romance Series and is releasing on 04.06.2017. This story is delightful and absolutely funny! You will not want to miss it!!! About the BookSingle mom, Eisley Barrett, prefers to keep romance safely housed within a centuries-old mystery, but when she travels to England to unearth the secret, an actor with a sordid past offers her reluctant heart a very different type of discovery. Wes Harrison has a past he’s ashamed to confess. Suspicious and cynical, he’s managed to avoid romantic entanglements since a tragedy upended his career and life, that is until American Eisley Barrett comes along. Her authenticity and kindness upend his bitter assumptions and send his heart into unscripted territory. When his past threatens to ruin a second chance at love, can some Appalachian matchmaking and letters from the grave salvage their unexpected romance? Check out my review of Just the Way You Are HERE. About the AuthorPepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of 5 great kids, speech-pathologist to about fifty more, lover of chocolate, jazz, and Jesus. Her debut historical novel, The Thorn Bearer, released in May 2015 and has garnered awards such as Reader’s Favorites Award, finalist in the Grace Awards, shortlisted for the Inspy Awards, and most recently a finalist in the ACFW Carol Awards. Her second historical novel, The Thorn Keeper, released in Feb 2016 and her first contemporary romance, A Twist of Faith, released in April 2016 with a 4 star review from Romantic Times. The third book in the Penned in Time series, The Thorn Healer, released in December 2017 with a 4 1/2 star review from RT and Top Pick rating. Pepper’s first novella arrived in March as part of a Love at First Laugh novella compilation and her novel, Just the Way You Are, releases on April 6th – a funfilled Britallachian romance! Both books are up for preorder on Amazon. Meeting Pepper!!!Yes, I got to meet and hang out with the AMAZING Pepper Basham last summer at CFRR 2016. Needless to say it was definitely a highlight of my summer!!! A Snippet from the Book...One step into the massive, glass-walled waiting area was all it took. In a cataclysmic chain of events, someone bumped into Eisley Barrett, sending her purse and all its contents skittering across the glossy floor of the Heathrow International Airport. Just as she regained her balance, her heel caught on her purse strap, forcing her off-kilter. She liked comedy, but this was ridiculous. What are you currently reading? What is your most recent book hangover? (If you’d like to join me on your blog for Book Hangover Wednesdays, shoot me a message and let me know!) About the Book
Protecting the Single Mom
(Shores of Indian Lake #7) Catherine Lanigan Adult Contemporary Romance Paperback & ebook, 384 pages April 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming Getting involved shouldn't be this dangerous… Cate Sullivan is no damsel in distress. She's kept herself and her son safe for six long years. Built a good life in Indian Lake. But now that her drug-dealing ex-husband is moving his operation here, that life is about to explode. Her instincts tell her to trust Detective Trent Davis. That he's more than just a handsome cop doing his duty. The former Green Beret has even formed a fast bond with her son. But there's something he's not telling her. Some darkness that keeps him from giving in to the feelings she knows are growing between them. Cate trusts Trent to keep her safe, but the real question is whether he'll trust himself with her heart. Other Books in the SeriesAdvanced Review for Protecting the Single Mom
This is an exceptional romantic fiction novel that inspires women to achieve their dreams and warms the hearts of the romantics. It is a beautifully well-written story with a clean context. It is suitable for anybody who loves a good romance and yearns to be inspired to make a change in their circumstances. - Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorit
About the Author
Catherine Lanigan is the international bestselling and award-winning author of forty published titles in both fiction and non-fiction, including the novelizations of Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile, as well as over half a dozen anthologies, including “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living your Dream”, “Chicken Soup for the Writer’s Soul”, and more. Ms. Lanigan’s novels have been translated into dozens of languages including German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, and Japanese. Ms. Lanigan’s novels are also available in E-books on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com, Apple Store, Mobi and Kobo. Several of her titles have been chosen for The Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Clubs. Her Vietnam war-based novel, The Christmas Star, won the Gold Medal Award Top Pick from Romantic Times Magazine and has also won Book of the Year Romance Gold Award from ForeWord Magazine as well as Book of the Year Romance from Reader’s Preference.
Lanigan is the author of a trilogy of non- fiction books regarding angelic intervention in human life: Angel Watch, Divine Nudges and Angel Tales published by HCI and Cedar Fort. Skyhorse published Lanigan’s “how-to” book on writing: Writing the Great American Romance Novel. Lanigan was tasked by the NotMYkid Foundation to write a non-fiction book addressing teen addictions. Ms. Lanigan’s first Young Adult adventure novel, The Adventures of Lillie and Zane: The Golden Flute, was published by Cedar Fort. Currently, she has published seven novels in the Shores of Indian Lake series for Harlequin Heartwarming: Love Shadows, Heart’s Desire, A Fine Year for Love, Katia’s Promise, Fear of Falling and Sophie’s Path. Protecting the Single Mom pubs April, 2016. She has recently contracted for two more in the series: Wedding for Isabelle and A Bride for Mica. As a cancer survivor, Ms. Lanigan is a frequent speaker at literary functions and book conventions as well as inspiring audiences with her real stories of angelic intervention from her Angel Tales series of books. She is an outspoken advocate for domestic violence and abuse and was honored by The National Domestic Violence Hotline in Washington, D.C. (THE EVOLVING WOMAN). She has been a guest on numerous radio programs including “Coast to Coast” and on television interview and talk show programs as well as blogs, podcasts and online radio interview programs. Review
Protecting the Single Mom is the seventh book in the Shores of Indian Lake Series. It is about Cate Sullivan who is on the run from her abusive and drug dealer ex-husband and former Green Beret now Detective Trent Davis. They both have struggles, Cate is being stocked by her ex-husband and Trent is dealing with PTSD. Lanigan’s characters are brought to life in a way that readers can easily relate to them. Readers will also thoroughly enjoy the delightful and enjoyable family dynamic, including fantastic kid characters. This story also has plenty of suspense and romance too. Readers will not want to miss this next instalment in this engaging series. I would recommend this novel to readers that enjoy contemporary romance stories with great family dynamics, as well as mystery.
Genre: contemporary, romance, mystery, thriller Publisher: Harlequin Heartwarming Publication date: April 1, 2017 Number of pages: 384 Content Rating: PG Book Rating: 5 stars
A review copy of this book was provided by Prism Book Tours. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Giveaway
- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)
- 1 winner will receive a tote bag and three Shores of Indian Lake books: Katia's Promise, Fear of Falling and Sophie's Path (US only) - Ends April 11th Tour Schedule
March 26th: Launch
March 27th: Thoughts of a Blonde & Katie's Clean Book Collection March 28th: Rockin' Book Reviews & Book Lover in Florida March 29th: Rainy Day Reviews & Zerina Blossom's Books March 30th: Hearts & Scribbles & Harlie's Books April 2nd: Hardcover Feedback & Reading Is My SuperPower April 3rd: Mel's Shelves & Kati's Bookaholic Rambling Reviews April 4th: underneath the covers & Wishful Endings April 5th: The Silver Dagger Scriptorium, Heidi Reads... & Singing Librarian Books April 6th: Nicole's Book Musings & Becky on Books April 7th: Grand Finale Happy Birthday Singing Librarian Books + 5 Grand Prize Giveaways + Author Chat Facebook Party
4/3/2017
SLB was born on April 13, 2015. So to celebrate SLB's 2nd birthday, there are 5 grand prize giveaways that will be open all month, as well as a Author Chat Facebook Party on April 13th. Details for entering the giveaways and for joining the Facebook Party are below! I hope you will come join in the fun and month long celebration!!
Grand Prize Giveaways
Join the party HERE.
Come chat with these fun authors and be entered for a chance to win a book from the author.
1:00pm--Welcome 1:15pm--Carrie Fancett Pagels 1:30pm-- 1:45pm--Janet Ferguson 2:00pm--Teresa Tysinger 2:15pm--Denise Weimer 2:30pm--Angela Couch 2:45pm--Tanya Stowe 3:00pm--Tanya Eavenson 3:15pm--Ruth Logan Herne 3:30pm--Marguerite Martin Gray 3:45pm--Kate James 4:00pm--Prize winners announced
Thank you to all the authors for the donation of their books for the grand pize giveaways and for their books and time for the Author Chat Facebook Party!
Month in Review -- March 2017
4/2/2017
March ReadsClick the graphics below to add the books to your GoodReads TBR list. March ReviewsClick the images below to be taken to my reviews. First Line Friday PostsClick the images below to be taken to my FLF posts. How am I doing on my reading goals and challenges??Bethany House Reading Challenge--1
Goodreads Challenge--19 books -- 37/100 books read so far this year NetGalley Challenge--6 Whitney Finalists Challenge--NA Historical Fiction Reading Challenge--2 War Through the Generations--NA Personal Reading Challenges--NA See HERE for further details on my reading challenges. What have you been reading? What are your current reading goals? Check out the reading challenge details HERE. Join the LDS Fiction Reading Challenges Facebook Page. Challenge GoalsRead 1 book per week for this challenge.
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