Friday Fiction Friends - A Book Review

I didn't have anyone lined for today, so I thought a book review would fill the spot nicely.

A BEE IN HER BONNET by Jennifer Beckstrand ~ A Review

I don't usually read Amish fiction. Just not my cup of tea. But someone asked me to read this book and I was in the mood for a romance.I'm am ever so happy I decided to read it!!

This is the second book in the series but I didn't feel at all lost by not having read the first (I will go back and read that one, though). The Honeybee Sisters are three young women living with their aunt in a Wisconsin Amish community. The girls were orphaned at a young age and their aunt stepped in to raise them. The family is a little unconventional by Amish standards, especially Aendi Bitsy, who lived outside the Amish community for a long time. She's a big part of what made A BEE IN HER BONNET so enjoyable.

In this novel, Poppy Christner is determined to catch the vandal who has been terrorizing their farm. Their beehives have been tipped over, laundry torn from the line, and graffiti painted on the side of the barn. All of that happened in the first book. This one opens with Poppy confronting two people parked in a car on the road in front of the farm - and getting her hand stuck in the driver's side window as they start to drive away. Luke Bontrager comes along just in time to stop the car and force them to roll down the window, freeing Poppy. She doesn't appreciate his interference (she's convinced she was about to see the faces of the vandals). Luke thinks Poppy takes unnecessary risks.

All of Poppy's life, she's believed that she is not marriage material. Her grandfather told her she'd never get a husband if she stayed so stubborn. In school, she confronted bullies and was generally a tomboy. Now along comes Luke, echoing the same sentiment - who would want to marry such a contrary girl. For her part, Poppy concedes (privately, of course) that Luke is handsome but he's much too bossy.

The two are thrown together through various circumstances, each slowly realizing how special and wunderbar the other is. Luke obstinately sticks to his belief that some things are "men's work" and some work is for women. Poppy stubbornly sticks to her feeling that she can do anything any boy can do. Their clashes are humorous and tug at heartstrings as the reason behind each one's emotions is revealed. How will they ever overcome these obstacles to reach the love God surely has planned for them?

Throughout it all, Aendi Bitsy fills the pages with humor and love. She admonishes the girls for giving Luke some cookies as a thank you for saving Poppy in the car incident. "Boys are like stray cats. Feed them once, and they'll keep coming around." Her gruffness doesn't scare Luke, which is good because Bitsy actually has a warm and loving heart and wants only the best for her nieces.

When I finished reading A BEE IN HER BONNET the only thing I wanted to do next was read book 3! This is a fun romance with plenty of humor and loads of warmth. I definitely recommend it!!

All three of the Honeybee Sisters novels by Jennifer Beckstrand are available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble

Friday Fiction Friends - Emily Reynolds

This week Friday Fiction Friends spotlights Emily Reynolds' debut novel, PICTURE PERFECT. 

Seven years ago, I met Emily through an ACFW critique group. Together with Sally Bayless, we dubbed ourselves "The Three Musketeers" and determined to encourage each other to publication. Life happened and each of us has journeyed different roads to our dreams. Yet we are all three published!

Back then, Emily's WIP (work in progress) went by other names but her main characters were Lily and Micah. I fell in love with them from the start. Lily is spunky, determined, yet caring and full of compassion. She's pursuing her dream of opening a photography studio and has finally found the perfect location. Micah has a past he's not proud of - would love for no one to know about, in fact. A personal tragedy brought him to Christ and now he wants to open a martial arts dojo to teach jujitsu to teens at risk.

Micah just found the perfect location for his dojo. Uh-huh, you guessed it!

That's not what has sparks flying between Lily and Micah, though. Micah gets drafted to help Lily learn swing dancing for her cousin's wedding. Their time on the dance floor heats up their romance but their pasts are about to collide. Again.

Micah is such a wonderful hero. He wants to improve the lives of teens. He's strong yet not a brute. He can dance! He's considerate. And flawed. When he gets frustrated, he stops talking to Lily, which only makes matters worse. So true to life. Lily, for her part, doesn't always open up and share her thoughts and concerns. Which makes matters worse. More real life, right there. Lily sees the good in Micah but she can't quite let go of the past and trust him.

Added to the mix is Lily's best friend, Erica, and her boss, Ian, who owns/runs the local coffee hot spot. Then there's Jeff, the youth pastor. And Myrtle Boralis, a wealthy elderly lady in church who has rubbed a few people the wrong way. We all know someone like her - she means well but is abrasive anyway.

PICTURE PERFECT is a delightful read, full of real life and plenty of romance. Get your copy today, for Kindle or in print.

Emily Reynolds writes contemporary, faith-filled romance novels filled with laughs and small-town charm. She loves exploring the mystery of falling in love, God's redemptive grace, and laugh-out-loud humor. Visit her website to learn more: http://www.emilycreynolds.com/ 

For more incredible contemporary romance novels, check out BLING! Romance, a division of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas

Author Spotlight - Dana Pratola with a NEW RELEASE!!

I met Dana Pratola on Facebook. Though we've never met face-to-face, I consider her to be a friend. Two years ago, I had the joy of reading the first novel in Dana's Descended series, Descended ~ Jett. It is a fabulous novel! I absolutely must read Sebastian, because the third in the series just released and I want to read them all! 

Descended ~ Aaro released on New Year's Day. It's the third book in the 4-part Descended series. Aaro Highlander, like his “brothers,” is a special breed—not quite angel, not quite human—with spectacular gifts, deep running passions and strength of character that makes him the ideal man for our heroine, Darcy.

This part of the journey reveals prophetic secrets unknown to the other men (Jett & Sebastian) until now. While searching for a serial killer, they also await the discovery of the fourth of their kind to come together for a greater purpose. (oooh, can you feel the anticipation?!!)

Here's an excerpt to wet your appetite:

George didn’t bother to conceal his irritation when Aaro approached. He crumpled his napkin and dropped it next to his plate. “You’re food isn’t ready yet?”

Oh, how Aaro loved arrogant blow-hards. He grinned, and pulled out an empty chair. “No. So I’ll just sit with you guys for a minute. You don’t mind, right?” he asked George, then turned to Darcy.

He caught the quick snicker she tried to mask with a delicate cough and a sip of iced tea. She was something. Reaching onto her plate, Aaro stole an olive. He didn’t like olives, but it served to move her eyes to his face where he could send her a not-so-subtle wink.

George made a show of tugging up the sleeve of his Armani shirt to look at his three thousand dollar watch, even though there was a wall clock mounted less than five feet away.

“You have to get back to work,” he said, signaling their waiter for the check.

Aaro took Darcy’s hand, rubbing her wrist with his thumb. Her breath caught, an action that was mimicked by her pulse under his touch. “Do you have to leave so soon?”

She nodded, dumbly, as the waiter set down the leather check folder, thanked them for coming, and strode away. George stood, pulled a money clip from his pocket and slapped down a wad of cash, without seeming to count it.

“In that case, let me say goodbye,” Aaro said.

He leaned from his chair to hers, sliding his hand beneath her sleek ponytail and behind her neck, gently pulling her toward his waiting mouth.

The touch of her warm, flavorful lips had him pressing closer, flexing his fingers against the smoothness of her neck, resisting the desire to slide his hand down her back or to open her mouth to his probing tongue.

He’d thought he knew what he was doing. He’d meant for it to be a sweet peck on the lips, just a harmless show—

No he hadn’t. He’d meant it to be hot and searing, meant it to put that pansy, George, in his place and let him know he would never kiss Darcy like this, never evoke the response she was giving now. Only he didn’t expect his own response to be quite so urgent. Didn’t expect it to induce visions of clearing the table off with one swipe and taking her there in a crowded restaurant.

And he certainly didn’t expect the absolute silence when he reined himself in enough to back slowly away, brushing his thumb over her flushed cheek. Darcy’s eyes shimmered with heat, her breath coming in shallow gasps as she reached for her drink.

But, George didn’t give her time to sip. Moving around Aaro’s still recovering form, he took Darcy by the hand and shuffled her outside.

Aaro sat there a few more seconds, working out in his own mind what just happened. He felt…possessive. What was that about? He swallowed, hard, and looked around. Every eye in the place was focused on him, including Kate’s, her cheeks deep pink as she fanned a white cloth in front of her face.

Embarrassed, he tried a half smile as he walked back to the counter. He’d never been out of control in public before.

“So, that steak done?”

Kate chuckled. “Yes. And it’s on the house.”


Ready to buy it and read it all? Of course you are!! Pop over to Amazon, or click the book photo/name in this post Descended~Aaro

And be sure to visit Dana Pratola online to learn about her other novels, and keep up-to-date on future books. You can find Dana on Facebook, Twitter (@DanaPratola), Goodreads, or at her website, Dana Pratola ~ Author.  

LIFE AND TIMES OF LUCAS MCGILLEY

Today I'm happy to showcase Suzanne D. Williams. I first met Suzanne through Grace Awards and it turns out we like a lot of the same things - books, photography, Irish heritage, and more. Suzanne is the author of both nonfiction and fiction works and even writes a monthly column for Digicams.com about digital photography.  For the Grace Awards Summer Book Launch Tour, she's focusing on her novel THE LIFE AND TIMES OF LUCAS MCGILLEY, a young adult romance of first love and the importance of family. You can purchase this novel and Suzanne's other books at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Here's a blurb about the book:

“Go ahead and plan to leave,” Lucas said. “Hold onto your ticket. I’ll even drive you to the train. But I’ll do it with Sam and John and Charles and Will. With Marcus and James. Even with Jesse. And you’ll have to look us all in the eye as you board and decide what’s more valuable to you. Your plans in Atlanta. Your friend, Christine, who I’m sure is great. Or ten people who love you.”

The second of eight boys, Lucas McGilley spent his youth pulling pranks. Yet growing up comes hard, and he’s learned his lesson. Or so he thinks.

Then Iris Willow shows up for the summer, and along comes love, strife, and a terrible family secret. He needs her now, more than he’s ever thought possible.
But can he convince her to stay, or will she catch the train and be gone forever?

Suzanne has graciously answered a few interview questions so we can get to know her better. 

1) How did you come up with such an unusual name for your novel?

I woke up early one morning with that title in my head. I saw it like a headline. I am a graphic artist as well as a writer, so initially it came to me like the top of a newspaper. But when I made the book cover later, I decided to use a couple instead and give the title an old-fashioned headline effect.

2) Where did the storyline come from?

The storyline was originally a historical fiction. But because contemporary YA sells so well, I changed it. This enabled me to use a modern young couple on the cover and to include things like trucks and cell phones. But it keeps it’s “country” feel somewhat. I am a native Floridian and love to include descriptions of the landscape and lifestyle I am so familiar with in my books. This was the first YA I’ve written that I could really indulge myself in that and it still be contemporary.

3) What was the most difficult part of writing this story?

Remembering all those brothers – Jesse, Lucas, Marcus, James, William, Charles, John, and Sam.

I try to make each story unique in some way. Lucas being one of eight boys is definitely unique, but add in the challenge of having so many names in the text, giving each of them a personality, and the rapport brothers in a large family would have with each other, and I had to stop and think…a lot. Sam’s my favorite brother next to Lucas. Lucas, being the troublemaker, I needed a brother who’d continually stir the pot, so to speak, and he became it.

Here’s an unusual fact about the book, my editor is herself a mom of five boys, so she identified with the feel of the family, and that was a huge help to me in finalizing the story.

4) Iris Willow is a different name. What’s her part in the story?

I love naming characters. As a mom, I personally tried to give my daughter a normal name. After all, I grew up having to explain “Suzanne.” But when it comes to books, I can indulge myself and choose things outside of the box. In Iris’ case, I asked a friend to name a flower, completely at random, and then a tree. I then put them together. It was that simple.

It being a YA romance, I had to have a girl in the story, and since the story is set in a small town way off the road, it made sense to bring her in from the outside, where she’d be unfamiliar with the area. It also seemed a good idea she not be used to a large family, and that created the problems between she and Lucas, her reluctance to get involved, and the mystery of why exactly she was there.

5) What do you love about writing YA?

The innocence of it, two young people first falling in love, and the thrill that brings to the heart and the mind. The older I get, the more I appreciate this.

I nver set out to be a YA writer, and actually, write many other romance titles, but it’s the YA that I always come back to, which brings me the most joy and feedback. As a Christian writer, I add Bible morality into each story as well. Some have more of a Christian theme than others, but all have foundational truths behind them.

No one person’s life is perfect, and I try to reflect that in the mistakes and foibles of the characters, and write what’s best for that particular tale because what works for one doesn’t work for another. Yet when all is said and done, love always triumphs because that, after all, is romance.

To learn more about what Suzanne, visit http://suzanne-williams-photography.blogspot.com/ or link with her on Facebook at  http://www.facebook.com/suzannedwilliamsauthor

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The Grace Filled Christmas Blog Tour Takes A Step Into The Past

Saturday, the first day of December appropriately brought snow here to central Massachusetts. It looked very Christmas-y and got me in the mood to go Christmas Shopping. The snow is gone now but not that Christmas mood!

The Grace Filled Christmas Blog Tour has some wonderful ideas for all the readers on your gift list. Below I'm showcasing my three novels, perfect for anyone who loves a Western Romance. If you haven't already checked out the other blog stops, be sure to visit The Grace Awards Blog for a list of participating authors. While there, also check out the weekly author interviews!

Without further ado, here are my three novels for the showcase:

CELTIC CROSS

Historical Romance/Suspense
Set in 1880's Colorado

Sometimes you have to forget who you are to become who you should be. A stranger arrives on the Donovan ranch one breath away from dead. Matt Donovan doesn't hesitate to help, despite the risk that the man who shot her may come riding down the trail, shattering peaceful Glenpark, Colorado. When Cristeen wakes, one thought haunts her - trust no one.

(click on the picture to pop over to the Amazon page & read a preview)


Shot...Bleeding...Barely conscious...She's dying!
A stranger arrives on the Donovan ranch just one breath away from dead. Matt Donovan does not hesitate to help, despite her unkown past. Will the man who shot her come riding down the trail after her, shattering peaceful Glenpark, Colorado?

When Cristeen wakes, she can remember nothing of her past. Only one thought haunts her day and night: trust no one.

Matt fears Cristeen's fierce independence will lead to tragedy. Can he help Cristeen see the need to trust the Lord before it is too late? Can Cristeen overcome her belief that loving can only bring heartache?

Then a madman bent on revenge tracks her down. Matt cannot rescue Cristeen this time. Only the Lord can save her now--if she has enough faith to trust.

What makes CELTIC CROSS perfect for Christmas reading and gifting?

In the words of one 5-star review: "Each main character had to find a way to come to terms with questions caused by major upheavals in their lives. The questions and concerns are ones that many can resonate with, for we all have had challenges from our past that need to be reconciled by God's love and healing. There was an overshadowing suspense that kept me turning pages and questions that kept my interest. If you are looking for a sweet romance, this is the book for you."

Available in print and for Kindle at:  http://amzn.to/OZtMzZ 

Also available for Nook and other eReaders at: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/241701

CLADDAUGH

Historical Romance/Suspense
Set in 1880's Colorado

Leigh Latham chose love over money, turning her back on family and friends. When the dream becomes a nightmare, Leigh runs back to the friends she left behind. Can she possibly hope to find forgiveness? Marshal Rory Johnston thought he was over Leigh. Now she's back and he isn't sure they can be just friends. Can he protect her and his heart at the same time?

(click on the picture to pop over to the Amazon page & read a preview)

Leigh Latham dreamed of marrying a man of wealth. When she chooses money over love, she turns her back on family and friends. But life doesn't go quite as Leigh planned.

When the dream becomes a nightmare, Leigh flees Philadelphia. With nowhere else to go, she returns to the friends she left behind. Can she possibly hope to find forgiveness?

Marshal Rory Johnston thought he was over Leigh. Now he isn't so sure they can be just friends. Is Leigh hiding something, running from someone? Can he protect her and his heart at the same time?

Will history repeat itself? Or can loyal friendship grow into a love to last a lifetime?

What makes CLADDAUGH perfect for 

Christmas reading and gifting?

The legend of the is perhaps one of the most popular Irish traditions. The heart symbolizes love, the crown symbolizes loyalty and the hands symbolize friendship. The story in my novel revolves around these themes and that's ultimately why I chose Claddaugh for the title.

CLADDAUGH is available in print and eBook:

Amazon http://amzn.to/OZyMVm

for Nook & other eReaders: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/251463

   CELTIC KNOT

Western Suspense with Romance

set in 1890 Colorado

 ~ A sweet romance woven through a suspenseful tale of counterfeiting, murder and kidnapping with as many twists and turns as a never ending Celtic knot. 

(click on the picture to pop over to the Amazon page & read a preview)

"He that loveth not knoweth not God; 

for God is love." ~ 1John 4:8

"There is no fear in love; but perfect

love casteth out fear." ~ 1 John 4:18

Abby Finnigan is struggling to go on with life after the death of her husband. Her family has never been supportive, more so now than ever. She believes the only safe course is to protect her heart. Besides, people only do nice things today because they want something tomorrow.

Secret Service Operative Kyle Lachapelle is working undercover. From the moment he meets Abby, Kyle finds her intriguing--and attractive. When he learns of Abby's connection to his counterfeiting case, Kyle is unsure if he can trust her.

His guarded attitude confuses Abby. She trusts him with much yet withholds her heart, not wanting to be hurt again. When she finds out Kyle has come to arrest her family, her doubts seem justified.. 

Will love conquer their fears?

What makes CELTIC KNOT perfect for 

Christmas reading and gifting?

The greatest gift ever given is Jesus Christ--God loves us all so much He's given us a way to be forgiven though we can never truly be worthy of the gift. Imagine if someone never knew love in their childhood. How difficult the gift of Jesus would be to understand! This is exactly what Abby struggles with as she overcomes grief and moves on with her life. But this is an historical suspense, so she can't just learn about Christ. She also has to cope with her family and their criminal enterprise as well.

CELTIC KNOT is a great gift for anyone who loves mystery, suspense and action (wrapped around a sweet romance). 

Now available in print and eBook!

Amazon Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/bmkpyth Print: http://amzn.to/NkHjk2

Noble & other eReaders http://tinyurl.com/clofpq2

CELTIC CROSS and CLADDAUGH now eBooks!

When I was in high school, my parents got a microwave oven. Mom tried cooking all kinds of foods in there. My all time favorite was microwave popcorn, arguably the greatest invention since the wheel. Warming up a cup of coffee is nice, too. I, however, didn't get a microwave until about ten years after getting married.

We got our first DVD player a few years after the microwave. And only because it was difficult to buy movies on VHS.

Nearly all my friends have cell phones. Not me. One day I will come into the 21st century. I mean, even my parents both have cell phones!

The future of publishing is moving more and more toward eBooks. Seems like nearly everyone has an eReader device of one type or another. Those who don't, read books on their computers. I love print books and will never give them up but it would be foolish to ignore the ePublishing market. So I didn't - my three novels are coming to the electronic book world!

If you're looking for a good book for yourself or to give as a gift, check out Celtic Cross and Claddaugh, both available as eBooks. And Celtic Knot will join them very soon! All three are Christian Historical Romance - Western action and sweet romance. Check them out today!

Purchase links:

Amazon Kindle http://tinyurl.com/bk5jh4y

Barnes & Noble Nook http://tinyurl.com/bj76mtf

Other Readers http://tinyurl.com/bkdz4ya