Robin E Mason Debut series Unsavory Heritage

Tessa, book one of Unsavory Heritage

Robin E Mason

E-book $6.99

Print $19.95

510 pp

Buy on Amazon 

About the book

One mother. Two daughters. One favorite. One not. 

When Cassie Barclay is presented with an opportunity – or is it a curse – she jumps at the chance. She takes on a new life, her sister’s life, and although at first, it holds appeal and promise, she soon realizes sometimes the fairy tale is tainted.

Assuming the name of Tessa, Cassie moves into the life that was her sister’s, and faces first one realization then another, one disappointment after another. Stepping into Connie’s life does not automatically grant her all that Connie had or was.

But it does deny all that she had and was as Cassie. As herself.

My review

Mason has woven a tale of generational disjointed love and hate, judgement calls gone wrong, passion and forgiveness.

Christmas birthdays aren’t the only thing the Barclay women have in common. A penchant for finding trouble is another. Mason eventually focuses on the 1950s and the title daughter in this story of lovely, talented women who are disappointed by circumstances and relationships. The book is a virtual visit to this era, one of glamour and glitz, of unreality and reinvention. It takes some time to get here, though, as the story is told in cyclic form, starting with the revelation of a secret, then regressing to an earlier era.

Told in fits and starts, jumping around in time and from an outside wide perspective, this long story is a virtual romp through family secrets, shame, and triumph—thus the “Unsavory” heritage. The desire to be loved and accepted propels the cycle of poor judgement calls and missed opportunities. When an accident opens a strange crack in the family, the unloved daughter attempts to bridge the gap. A huge cast wanders in and out of the generations. Everyone is tied to together and the ripple of choices washes over all of the others. It took me a while to get familiar with the names and relationships, but once we jumped into Cassie/Tessa’s life, the twists just kept coming. Those who love family drama and multi-generational twentieth century stories told in wide angle format will enjoy this series.

About the Author

I have been writing since 1995, and began working in earnest on my debut novel, Tessa, in 2013. Meanwhile, I cranked out a few dozen poems, made countless notes for story ideas, and earned my BFA in Interior Design. I lived with depression for many years, and the inherent feelings of worthlessness and invisibility; I didn’t want to be who I was and struggled with my own identity for many years. My characters face many of these same demons. 

I write stories of identity conflict. My characters encounter situations that force the question, “Who am I, really?” For all who have ever wondered who you are or why you’re here, my stories will touch you in a very real—maybe too real—and a very deep way. I know, I write from experience.

I have three novels published, the Unsavory Heritage series. Tessa, Clara Bess, and Cissy are available on Amazon, both for Kindle and in print. I also have several poems included in an anthology, Where Dreams and Visions Live (Anthologies of the Heart Book 1) 9 by Mary Blowers as well as a short story, “Sarafina’s Light,” also in an anthology, Blood Moon, compiled by Mary Blowers. I will also be working on a personal compilation of poetry to be released in 2017.

You can connect with Robin at:
http://www.robinemason.com
http://robinsnest212.wordpress.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Robin-E-Mason-Author-Artist/224223274404877
https://twitter.com/amythyst212
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7808042.Robin_E_Mason
http://www.pinterest.com/amythyst212/

The other books in the series are available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. I will review them in the future. ~Lisa

Book 2 Clara Bess 

Book 3 Cissy 

Meet Villainous Drake from Time Search by Danele Rotharmel

Today, I’m talking with Drake Procerus from Danele Rotharmel’s new book, Time Search. Time Search is the third book in The Time Counselor Chronicles. Drake, it’s nice to meet you.

Thank you, Lisa. It’s nice to be here. I’m anxious to tell my side of the story.

Good. That’s what I’d like you to do. As the villain of Time Search, how do—

Villain? You think I’m the villain?

Drake, please sit back down.

I’m not a villain! It’s lies! All lies! The villains are those stupid TEMCO employees! They destroy people’s lives and then congratulate themselves on their success! They’re the ones who need stopped! They’re the—

Drake, I asked you to sit down.

(Long pause)(Smiles) Of course. I’m sorry, Lisa.

Take your hand out of your pocket! If you pull a knife, security will be here in a flat second.

Smart, aren’t you? But not smart enough to have security frisk me before this interview.

Drake! I’m warning—

Don’t worry. I’m here to talk—not play. (Slowly removes his hand from his pocket.)

Thank you. That’s better. Now, can you tell me why you’re so angry with TEMCO?

Didn’t those stupid TEMCO clones tell you?

I’d like to hear your side. That’s why you’re here.

In that case, I had one good person in my life. One! And those TEMCO “heroes” took her from me! She was everything—everything—to me, and after they “time counseled” her, she never spoke to me again. They destroyed my life when they brainwashed her!

Are you referring to your ex-girlfriend? Who was she? What was her name?

Are you trying to pump me for information? Did Crystal Stuart put you up to this? Or was it Zeke Masters? Are you working for them?

I’m simply conducting an interview. An interview in which you agreed to participate.

Like fun, you are! You’re a TEMCO spy—and not even a convincing one! If TEMCO wants to find out the name of my girl, and if they want to know who I am, they’ll just have to figure it out for themselves. I’ve provided them with all the necessary clues. They’re just too stupid to put the pieces together. They deserve what’s headed their way. They’re morons!

Crystal’s not a moron.

No… She’s not. (Pauses) She’s a problem… Luckily, I know how to deal with problems.

Are you threatening Crystal’s safety?

(Smiles) I’m just talking. Friendly-like. No need to get worried.

You’re eyes look strange. They have a silver gleam.

(Chuckles) It’s just the lighting. You need different bulbs. No need to worry. Ask your next question.

Why did you kidnap Phoebe?

Precious Phoebe was just a stupid squirrel in the road. If a squirrel gets on the highway, it deserves to be flattened. I needed bait, and she made herself so available. What happened to Phoebe was her own fault.

But she escaped, didn’t she? She defeated you…. Drake! I told you to stay seated!

What do you know about Phoebe? Do you know where she went? Tell me where she is! Tell me now!

Drake, put down that knife! Security! Security!

(Sounds of a door being flung open. Running footsteps… Sounds of a scuffle… Shouts… Glass breaking… More people enter the room.)

Ms. Lickel, I’m Agent Ruthford. Are you okay? Where’s Drake?

I’m fine. Drake broke the window and escaped through it. He ran down the street toward the left. One of the security guards went after him. You may be able to catch him if you hurry!

(Running footsteps. Door slams. More shouts.)

Readers, I’m sorry that we have to cut this interview short. But I’m afraid that Drake has left the building. I’m also afraid that he’ll never be let back inside of it!

About the Book - Time Search

The Time Counselor Chronicles #3

A nameless evil lurks in the shadows…

In the wake of a recent wave of violence, TEMCO employees are left reeling. While some of the staff are put into hiding, others are left behind to discover the true identity of the mysterious nemesis who is determined to destroy them all. While Crystal, Marc, and Zeke search for clues to unravel the mystery of his real name, their enemy is lurking in the shadows searching for TEMCO’s missing leaders. It’s a race against the clock! And as the hours and seconds tick away, it’s anyone’s guess whose search will be completed first. It’s a classic battle of good versus evil, and the stakes couldn’t be higher!

Print - $16.99
Ebook - $4.99

Buy on Amazon, Print
Buy on Barnes and Noble - coming

Buy on Smashwords - coming

About Danele Rotharmel

Danele Rotharmel grew up with a love of the literary word, and by age five, she knew she wanted to be a writer. However, her life took an unexpected turn when a mysterious illness brought her close to death. Eventually, she learned that a low-level carbon monoxide leak from a faulty furnace in her home was slowly poisoning her. This poisoning triggered severe Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and partial amnesia.

During this time, the hardest thing she faced was a crisis of faith. She had to quit her job and stop going to church. She couldn’t write, couldn’t drive, and could barely remember who she was. To say she was upset with the Lord was an understatement. She began reexamining her faith in light of her illness, and eventually, she came to the firm conclusion that God is real, God is good, God is interested and involved, and God is trustworthy regardless of tragedy.

When her illness became even more severe, she was put into quarantine and could only talk to friends and extended family through the glass of a window. This quarantine lasted for seven years. During this time, she wrote the first six books in The Time Counselor Chronicles.

Danele currently lives in Colorado where she continues to write. Although her journey back to health was long and difficult, it provided her with the opportunity to grow closer to God and to write her books. For that, she is forever thankful.

You can learn more about Danele by visiting her blog at https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/

Danele’s Testimony: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/welcome/

Danele’s Books: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/my-books/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14782632.Danele_J_Rotharmel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danele.rotharmel

Meet Kimberley Payne, author of Fit For Faith

Kimberley Payne is the author of Fit for Faith – a 7-week program to improve spiritual and

physical health and is a motivational speaker offering workshops and online courses based on her book. She hopes to inspire women to live happier, healthier lives that glorify God.

Kimberley is happily married and lives with her husband in a village east of Toronto, Canada where she hikes and bikes. Visit her website.

Facebook | Twitter

Pinterest | YouTube | Amazon

Purchase Fit for Faith

Amazon USA

Amazon Canada

Smashwords

See more:

GoodReads

Kimberley, what do you love about this book?

It’s like having your own personal trainer but without the cost.

How did you decide on your topic and what do you hope readers will learn?

As a former personal trainer, I often came across the same questions time and again. I wrote this book to help the reader wade through the myths and misconceptions that are out there. But it's also an awareness program. The reader is accountable to record their activities, and this helps to recognize where their strengths are and what areas they need to improve. Finally, it's a lifestyle change. Over the 7 weeks, the reader will gain habits that last a lifetime.

Share two things you learned about yourself, your setting, or the publishing world while writing this book.

I learned that prayer & Bible study are to the spirit what exercise and healthy eating are to the body, and I want to share this with women.

Lisa: Amen!

What are you reading now?

The Jesus Centred Bible.

What’s next for you?

I plan to continue to walk the talk and share my insights with women on my blog.

Jim Baton Peace Trilogy A Violent Light

A Violent Light, Peace Trilogy, Book #3

Jim Baton

$5.99

$15.99

Buy on Amazon 

Buy on Barnes and Noble 

About the Book

The Youth For Peace Fresh Start Initiative gathers ten Muslim and ten Christian youth from ten nations around the world to learn new paths to peace. But the camp staff have some highly unorthodox teaching techniques. And when one by one the youth start disappearing, some of them wonder if the staff might not have an entirely different agenda. Those left behind must work together to solve the mystery before they also disappear. Meanwhile, unbeknownst to them, the entire world is watching... 

My Review

It’s an international peace conference gone horribly wrong. Young adults who have shown initiatives in peace ventures in their communities, who are actively involved in promoting peace, reconciliation, and acceptance of Christian and Muslim cultures living side by side have been invited to the United States to share with each other and learn new methods of reaching out. Most of them don’t realize how far they have to go until they are forced to unite in order to survive.

A Violent Light is the third book in a series, however each of the books is capable of standing on its own. I read the second book before the first, and while the author follows the story of Sari, a young Indonesian Christian, it’s not crucial to know what goes on before. While the characters are well planned, as in most thrillers the story is plot-driven with events that propel the reader to turn pages, cringe, and cheer. And pray. A lot. This story is unfortunately too real, told by someone who has experienced these issues. On one hand, I can’t believe humanity can overcome our differences; on the other, Baton’s dream of rising above our sinful natures is mine, too. I can hurt for those who are stuck in mental illness because I know being earthbound is only temporary and I long for the better country.

I read fiction mostly for entertainment. I’m not honestly certain that I would have picked up this book on a whim, but the author’s background as a missionary in Indonesia makes the first and second stories pop. While it’s necessary for the evil in this third book set in the US to be somewhat cliché, the author has also shown an understanding of the difference between shock value and those who truly believe they are on the right hand of God and will murder to prove it. I still call such skewed devotion mental illness. Stellar writing is important to me, and this author has done another excellent work.

Those who love controversy, action, gruesome realities, and a good mystery thrill ride with action jumping between scenes will like Baton’s books. They are a true torn from the headlines look at the world today, and with A Violent Light, at America and its rotten layer of racism and biblical misinterpretation that must be overcome by the true power of dignity and self-sacrifice and love.

About the Author

JIM BATON has spent the last 20 years in the world’s largest Muslim nation, building bridges between Muslims and Christians who both desire peace. His speaking and writing call people out of fear and into authentic friendships that can change the world.

Talking A Life Transformed by Sana Edoja

Please welcome Sana Edoja from France. Sana is a former atheist who found the Lord and shares here experience of living the Christ-filled life through her writing. Her books are KNOWING GOD and the recently published A LIFE TRANSFORMED.

    

    "It took me more than twelve years to finish writing my book A Life Transformed," Sana says. "Actually, I started writing it before my son was born. He is eleven years old today. I didn't understand why I added more writing and editing for all those years.

     God taught me perseverance in receiving emotional healing through those years. I had to get my emotional turmoil out of my system by sharing it with the world. It was therapeutic in revealing the power of God's transformation in my life.

What are you reading now?

    I'm reading a book called Supernaturally Natural from a French pastor. It is teaching me how to be more spiritual on a daily basis.

What’s next for you?

I'm planning on promoting my book A Life Transformed and writing more articles on my blog. I'm taking a break from work to strengthen myself with God. I'm learning my identity in Christ and the importance of building my confidence in God's presence. I've recently graduated in becoming a jobseeker adviser. It is a tough for a beginner when you are confronted to professionals' criticism. During my intimacy with God, I listened to His words of healing and encouragement. God helps me to have a sense of comfort, unconditional love and protection. I've enrolled in a Bible course as we are perishing without God's knowledge. I'm working on dealing with my pride in order to become more humble. I'm focusing my thoughts on the word of God in order to make any progress in fulfilling the plan of God for my life.

Buy on Amazon

“I was troubled by a traumatic childhood, a victim of child abuse and bullying. I often felt depressed, humiliated and resentful. I turned to fortune tellers. I found myself caught up in negative thoughts. But it was only when I turned to God that I was able to experience feelings of hope. “Life Transformed” is a testimony to the work of God in restoring one person’s life. Be challenged in learning what God can do in the midst of despair.”

Also from Sana Edoja, KNOWING GOD: 

"Knowing God" can be very challenging in the world we are living in today, especially with the circumstances of life shown to us by the media."I have written Knowing God with the clear intention and determination to help those who are looking for the truth to have a better understanding of God as the Bible intends... I pray that this book will be a source of encouragement and enlightenment to those who are seeking God and want to know Him in a much deeper way." Sana Edoja

Behind the Scenes of Shoba Sadler's CHILD OF DUST

Today we'll sit down to chat with Shoba Sadler, author of the contemporary title Child of Dust. Shoba will take us behind the scenes of her unique new novel and give us a glimpse into her writing.

Shoba, why did you choose to write this type of novel?
Social status and cultural barriers makes for great conflict. Child of Dust is like a modern-day classic of Romeo and Juliet only instead of opposing families, these lovers, Kim and Bryan have cultural and social barriers to contend with.

Kim, the rich and spoilt socialite who loses her money is taken under the wing of her reluctant chauffeur, Bryan, who has his own struggles to deal with. They find love under the most unexpected circumstances.

Can you tell us why you started with an Asian setting for your first two novels?
I was founder of Agape Christian magazine in Malaysia. I also freelanced for the leading English, secular newspaper in Malaysia, The Star. My feature stories forThe Star were several page write-ups with gorgeous photos. Many of my stories were selected by the features editor to be cover stories as well.

As I interviewed people all over the world for Agape, I saw God moving powerfully in Asia and yet there were so few stories coming from there especially in the Christian romance genre.

In Asia, Christianity is seen very much as a Western culture. Yet so many Asians have had powerful encounters with Jesus Christ. Then there is the struggle to validate their faith in the midst of culture, tradition, loss of identity, social stigma and so on.

There alone you have so much material for backdrop, tension, drama, conflict and final resolution.

An example of what I mean can be seen in my short story Finding Enlightenmentthat was awarded second place at faithwriters.com. It can be read here:http://www.faithwriters.com/wc-article-level3-previous.php?id=54362

Talk a little about your unique setting.

When I read novels I am drawn to the backdrop and setting. A great description of the setting subtly woven into the story is what makes the difference between being a narrator who takes a person on a journey through his "telling" and a facilitator who steps out of the way altogether to allow the reader to explore the journey on his own. The writer should aim to be the facilitator and not the narrator.

There is nothing like a great setting to make the reader feel like they are there with the characters. It is like the difference between watching a 2D and 3D movie.

Unfortunately, many formulaic romance novels that are churned out in quick production-line succession fails to capture this allure of setting because it takes research and time. It is also not easy to write setting discreetly in the background and that is the only way to write it. Otherwise it will seem like reading lecture notes instead of a story.

I read one review of a multi-cultural romance set in an Asian country where the reviewer said she felt like she was reading a tour company's brochure and that is the wrong emotion to invoke.

So another reason I wrote Child of Dust was to give romance readers a chance to explore unique settings and backdrops not normally experienced by a reader in the current trend of romance novels available out there.

We'd love to hear a little about the historical background for your novel. Will you talk about that?
The main character, Bryan, Kim's chauffeur has been deeply affected by the Vietnam war in the sense that he is the illegitimate child of an American GI and a Vietnamese woman. This historical background sets a different dimension to the story and adds intrigue and authenticity.

Who would you say is the audience for this novel?

Child of Dust is an appealing read for anyone. As I have also written for the secular press, I am able to write in a manner that appeals to all walks of life both Christian and non-Christian. I have had non-Christians tell me they were so engrossed in the story that they didn't not notice the message of the gospel woven into the story. Yet that message is undoubtedly there.

I am an inspirational writer and everyone loves a good inspirational story just as they love watching a Hallmark movie.

What readers have to say about the novel:
"Make sure when getting ready to read Child of Dust that you don't have anything else planned for the day, you won't be able to put this book down. I could go on and on about this book. Highly and strongly recommend it. Is it possible to give a book 10 stars?" --- Debra Dunson, reviewer at The Edgier Christian Fiction Fan

"I found the writing of this story to be close to excellent.... I found this book to be one of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long time. It was interesting, the story kept moving along, and I learned a lot as I read this story. I found myself intrigued with the constant difficulties faced by the protagonists – and their stories were presented so much more like real life stories than any other book I have read in a long, long time." --- Marina, Community Writer, California

"This novel has a consistent rhythm, adding surprise after surprise, twisting our emotions at each new difficulty Kim faces. I couldn't put this book down, waiting to see if any or all the ends would be tired up. I would actually like to see the novel transcend into a movie. An amazing read." --- Brices Mice Christian Book Reviews


About Child of Dust:

Beautiful but spoilt Vietnamese socialite, Cao Kim Lye, learns of her parents shocking death from the dashing Amerasian family chauffeur, Bryan Nguyen.

Kim steps out of a world of crystal and chandelier to enter the dust and chaos of working-class Hanoi. She finds herself living under the roof of a shop cum living quarters with Bryan and his adoptive family.

Ever conscious of the privileged class, Kim struggles against the emotional ties she forms towards Bryan, the reluctant saviour, who considers her an unnecessary hitch to his already complicated life.

He still bears the scars of abandonment by his mother and his American GI father when U.S. troops pulled out of Vietnam.

Eventually Bryan and Kim's powerful attraction to each other begins to break down the wall between them.

About the author:
Shoba Sadler has been a journalist for 20 years and founder of Agape magazine in Malaysia. She is a versatile inspirational author that likes to write in multiple genres. She has pioneered a new genre in Christian multi-cultural writing with her novel Child of Dust and her many award-winning short stories can be read here http://shobasadler.com/?page_id=250

Her passion for writing is matched only by her passion for cooking with farm fresh produce. She lives a healthy lifestyle on a farm with her husband, Kevin, a talented musician, who also loves to surf and ski. They grow their own vegetables and fruits and share their home with a multitude of animals and wildlife. They are passionate about buying directly from local farmers who practice organic farming.

Time Search NEW from Danele Rotharmel

About the Book - Time Search

The Time Counselor Chronicles #3

A nameless evil lurks in the shadows…

In the wake of a recent wave of violence, TEMCO employees are left reeling. While some of the staff are put into hiding, others are left behind to discover the true identity of the mysterious nemesis who is determined to destroy them all. While Crystal, Marc, and Zeke search for clues to unravel the mystery of his real name, their enemy is lurking in the shadows searching for TEMCO’s missing leaders. It’s a race against the clock! And as the hours and seconds tick away, it’s anyone’s guess whose search will be completed first. It’s a classic battle of good versus evil, and the stakes couldn’t be higher!

Print $16.99
Ebook $4.99

Buy on Amazon, Print
Buy on Barnes and Noble - coming
Buy on Smashwords - coming

My Review
Come back on January 31, February 14 and March 14 to meet three of the most intriguing characters from the series!

This third book in the Time Counselor Chronicles is outstanding. Events set in motion already from the first book swing like Poe’s “Pit and the Pendulum” across Time Search. A case of counseling ripples gone badly wrong take the time counselors by unfortunate surprise. One foe from the past vows revenge as he patiently and coldheartedly works his way through time to set himself up in prime positive to exact his brand of punishment on those who separated him from his girlfriend. We’re not given much more to go on, and the author takes us on a thrill ride as her villain stalks the TEMCO agents, taunts federal agents, and leaves death and the nearly dead in his wake.

The thread of forgiveness, faith, love and hope runs through all of the stories, and is shown with precious clarity in several of the storylines. One huge question for thought is, if you know something bad will happen to someone and you have the power to prevent it but at great cost to others, what would you do? Likewise, if you knew someone could have prevented an outrageous attack but didn’t, what would it take for you to forgive? I love those great juicy chunks of food for thought.

At first I was going to write that readers can pick up a Time Counselor book in any order, but the cliffhanger at the end of Time Search made me change my mind. This is also the first book that I felt at home in, and where the characters felt familiar. Therefore I do recommend reading the books in order to learn about the setting. You cannot be a stickler for complexities of time travel or any “rules” of physics, however—suspend your disbelief to have a jolly good time. The cast is large and complex, but distinct. Pair a quirk with a name and you’ll do fine.

Told in multiple viewpoints and often in very short segments, readers who like contemporary stories of thrill, crimes, romance, forgiveness and faith in a series like Steven James’s Bower Files, but with more biblical reference and funky characters, will like these books.

About Danele Rotharmel

Danele Rotharmel grew up with a love of the literary word, and by age five, she knew she wanted to be a writer. However, her life took an unexpected turn when a mysterious illness brought her close to death. Eventually, she learned that a low-level carbon monoxide leak from a faulty furnace in her home was slowly poisoning her. This poisoning triggered severe Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and partial amnesia.

During this time, the hardest thing she faced was a crisis of faith. She had to quit her job and stop going to church. She couldn’t write, couldn’t drive, and could barely remember who she was. To say she was upset with the Lord was an understatement. She began reexamining her faith in light of her illness, and eventually, she came to the firm conclusion that God is real, God is good, God is interested and involved, and God is trustworthy regardless of tragedy.

When her illness became even more severe, she was put into quarantine and could only talk to friends and extended family through the glass of a window. This quarantine lasted for seven years. During this time, she wrote the first six books in The Time Counselor Chronicles.

Danele currently lives in Colorado where she continues to write. Although her journey back to health was long and difficult, it provided her with the opportunity to grow closer to God and to write her books. For that, she is forever thankful.

You can learn more about Danele by visiting her blog at https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/

Danele’s Testimony: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/welcome/

Danele’s Books: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/my-books/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14782632.Danele_J_Rotharmel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danele.rotharmel

Once Again by Deborah Heal

Once Again

Rewinding Time series, book 1

Deborah Heal

Paperback: $9.99

Ebook: 2.99

Others in the series:

Only Way Home 

How Sweet the Sound 

Matter of Time 

More Than Meets the Eye 

Buy Entire series

About the Book:

Professor Merrideth Randall has a tool that other historians can only dream of—computer software that virtually rewinds time!

It comes in handy for historical research and for her sideline genealogy business. When her colleague physics professor Brett Garrison asks for help with his family tree she can’t resist, even though he’s far too attractive for her peace of mind. And amazingly, he seems to be pursuing her, despite the fact that everyone knows dating a co-worker is career suicide.

Using her software, Merrideth gets a first-hand look at Brett’s ancestors, the courageous pioneers of the Illinois Country who withstood Indian attacks, hardship, and loneliness to settle there in the 1780s. One of the settlers is James Garretson, who risked his life to take the Gospel to the very tribe that wreaked havoc on his family. Merrideth is amazed that he could forgive a crime so huge.

She would love to tell Brett that he is descended from heroes, and that he inherited his black hair and green eyes from James Garretson. But she is determined to safeguard her program, and discretion is not Brett’s strong suit. She also has secrets about herself that she’d just as soon he didn’t find out either.

One virtue Brett does have is patience, and he’s quite willing to wait for Merrideth to figure things out.

Lisa's Review:

Little Merri Randall is all grown up in this new series from inspirational time master Deborah Heal. She’s followed her dream of becoming a young PhD history professor at a southern Illinois college. It’s been years since her childhood encounters with a dangerous and mysterious software program called Beautiful Houses. When she accidentally? rediscovers the program not only still exists and is just as active as ever, curiosity overcomes her good sense and she is once again drawn back to explore time.

Merredith uses the program to help her in both her work and private side business, researching family history. She has grown up reluctant to share herself with others, a definite lack of trust in others and even to a certain extent her own abilities and gifts. When the physics professor sets his sights on her, Merri has a lot to overcome, especially her teaching mentor, to believe anyone might be personally interested in her.

Told from Merredith’s viewpoint throughout, this story and series is a history lover’s dream. Because the character is a professor, her lectures that include blocks of rote history are a natural part of the story, as are the fascinating dialog sharing dates and people. Merri’s trips through time provide a virtual visit to experience life in the late eighteenth century literally through those people’s heads.

Just a fascinating series with excellent research. While science is not discounted, the details of the software’s ability to provide virtual time travel experience for the user doesn’t hinder the reader. The books are part of a series, and while a reader can pick up any story and read it with enough information from the past books to make sense of the particular story arc, you’ll want to read the whole series. I know I will. Recommended for those who love plucky wounded females with a side of romance while reading their history.

Note: Time and Again, the first book in the History Mystery trilogy sert before this series, is available free from Amazon Kindle

Cute&Quick Holiday Reads

Mixed-Up Christmas

Dixie Jo Jarchow

Holiday cowboy romantic novella

Ebook 2.99

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Barnes and Noble 

About the book:

When rodeo superstar Mix Malone announces he’s retiring from the bull riding circuit, his family is furious. Mix is tired, hurt, and disillusioned, but broken bones and concussions are not good enough excuses for quitting, according to his family whose fortune is built on Mix’s success. They’ll do anything to keep him riding.

Blossom Deavers has always told her special education students to follow their dreams—but finds herself faltering in her own attempts to run the Outlaw Café. Making it work is a lot tougher than she’d ever imagined. She has no time or energy to waste on good-looking superstars who seem to have it all.

But when Mix Malone staggers into her café and passes out at a table during the blizzard of the century, she is drawn into a family brawl with no holds barred. Blossom discovers that she can’t just abandon him. Her already hectic life is about to get a lot more complicated when she sets herself against his family’s wishes and advises him to quit. 

My review:

Mad bulls and mothers from the pit color this cute gulp of a holiday read. A family secret and all the wonderful smells of a coffee shop in cowboy country lend depth to a story where a busted rider and a worn-out former teacher have to haul themselves up by their bootstraps and punch out their dreams. Delightful scenarios, some twists, miscommunication, and machismo wash over everything. Two are always better than one when tackling life.

All I Want for Christmas

Janalyn Voigt

Holiday romantic inspirational romance novella

Ebook $.99

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About the Book:

Hailey may just give up on men entirely. When Corey broke her heart, her best friend Matt helped pick up the pieces. Matt made his interest in her no secret when they first met, but seemed happy to accept a friendship, at least until now. With Corey looking her way again, Matt has started acting funny.

If Matt wasn’t a cubicle worker who moonlights as a Seattle street musician, this could have been easy. Hailey can’t afford a drag on her ambitions. She needs to climb the career ladder to keep her childhood home, all she has left of her parents. 

After Amy ditched him for a man with more money, Matt isn’t about to tell Hailey that the fiddle he carries is a Stradivarius or that he owns a tuxedo. Let her love him for himself or not at all.

My review:

Quick and fun holiday bite of a read to keep your fun romance side going. A tale of mistaken identities, longing-for-more friendships, daily latte and office politics set in Seattle create a sweet story. The story of seeing what you want to see, having a hard time looking past your nose, and fearing failure and the future catch two people square at holiday time. Orphaned Hailey is good at her head job, but her artsy heart work may not pay the bills. If she was to fall in love, it would have to be with someone who won’t take advantage of her. Matt’s been burned a time too many and when he’s not being pursued for who he is, he can let his fun side out…only when confession time comes, he needs a stiff upper lip and the help of Hailey’s friend.

The Stone Giver military fiction from Buffy Andrews

The Stone Giver

Buffy Andrews

c. September 2016

Ebook $3.99

Print $11.99

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Full length book

Mainstream post-military romance

About the Book:

When a stone is thrown...ripples are created... A woman who has lost her way. A man crippled by war. What brings them together also pulls them apart. Zara Peede's growing feelings for her patient, soldier Jack Quinlan, scare the Walter Reed Medical Center nurse. Jack, a double amputee, is as wounded in spirit as he is in body. Jack's pain reflects her own grief for her lost brother, a fellow soldier who died in Afghanistan. Does she truly care for Jack, or are both of them just searching for someone to hold onto through their pain? To find out-and in search of her purpose-Zara flees, leaving Jack with only a note and a gift she doesn't fully understand herself. A stone. When Zara and Jack reconnect at an event in New York, they discover that some ripples last a lifetime. Will theirs?

My review:

From the shocking opening sequence of events to a satisfying conclusion, Andrews’s new romance show her penchant for well-researched and well-resourced stories. Readers are drawn right into the world of pain and recovery, anxiety and grief and rehabilitation as Jack makes the decision to find wholeness. Zara, one of his nurses, decides to shift course when Jack becomes that last patient who makes her work too personal. She only knows her new independence must include making a difference for others. An idea takes hold for a non-profit business that rewards encouragement and positive actions of others. Zara learns that a life of building on the success and joys of others spread out a wave of hope. When Jack and Zara cross paths again, they are able to take time without pressure and stress and pain to explore a relationship. 

Told in multiple viewpoints, this mainstream story tackles real questions of double amputees. The characters and dialog are lifelike, and overcoming problems handled in an empathy-inducing manner. Sexual scenarios and some swearing, along with bar scenes, are a natural part of the story. Readers will experience all the sweat, blood, and nightmares of the recovery process.

The Wedding Express with Jody Day

Sequel to The Washout Express

Inspirational romantic novella

Scott West is about to marry the woman of his dreams, but when delayed grief and a life-or-death event jeopardizes their relationship, Scott is forced to ask himself what kind of man he really is. Can he own up to the truth and risk losing the love of his life? And if he does come clean, will it be enough for Bailey? Discover the power of hope, forgiveness, and love in Wedding Express.

November 2016

Harbourlight Books

eBook

$4.99

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My review:

Scott takes a turn to tell his side of his romance with Bailey. He may have only met her a few months ago, but he’s had a washout engagement years past and knows this time Bailey is the right woman. Whether or not it’s the right time is the big question. When his former fiancé reenters his life in a frighteningly dependent way, both Scott and Bailey play truth or consequences for life.

This story takes up right after Washout Express. Set in a quaint Texas community, readers who love miracles and spectacular weddings will have fun with this story. It’s not necessary to read the first story to fall in love with these characters and their story in the Wedding Express. Told from multiple viewpoints, the reader is carried along by the whirlwind events of loss, a medical emergency, and surprise knots of every kind. It’s short and sweet.

Holiday time read with Jody Day

Washout Express

Jody Day

About the Book

Bailey Brown has just lost her job, her birthright, and her fiancé. Loaded with enough insecurities to fill a suitcase, she prays for God to show her the way and then hits the road feeling like the ultimate loser.

Exit 477: Washout Express.

The roadside sign taunts Bailey. Is God confirming she's expressly washed-up? Or does He have something better for her waiting at the end of the exit ramp?

Ebook 2.99

Inspirational Romance

Short book

Harbourlight Books

June 2013

Kindle 

Nook 

My Review: 

Looking for a cutie quick holiday read? Jody Day’s Washout Express will fit the bill!

You just know when the story opens with a devastating and cruel breakup, the sweeter the real romance that follows. And that’s exactly what you get.

I love less than twig perfect runway model heroines and six-pack ab heroes. If you like real people doing real, but sweetly heroic things like running into a fire to save mementos and proposing a lot, and realizing that bolstering each other in faith is truly the most important part of any relationship, Washout Express is for you.

Told in dramatic first person, Day’s Bailey Brown will grab your sympathy from page one. The author winds a mystery letter through the story, tantalizing the reader with its contents. Bailey meets the overworked young man, Scott, the owner of the truck wash business on Exit 477 in Texas, who holds the keys to her true purpose. I loved Bailey’s mom, Gwen, and especially Scott’s dad, Peeps. In fact, I enjoyed the story so much I bought the sequel, Wedding Express.

Clash of the Titles Alliance wishes you Merry Christmas with Barbara Britton

It's common knowledge that authors find their muse in many different places, but one author found her muse while teaching Sunday school.

Author Barbara M. Britton recently was featured on the Books of the Month TV program. Today we host the episode, now available online, on demand, courtesy of Preach the Word Worldwide TV Network. Learn how teaching Sunday school to children helped to spur Barbara's story ideas for her now-popular Biblical fiction series "Tribes of Israel."




(if you can't see the video, click here to visit the Preach the Word Worldwide Network TV station page.) 


Purchase Providence: Hannah's Journey today
Pre-order Building Benjamin: Naomi's Journey

Fiction from Edie Melson: Alone

Alone

Edie Melson

Prism Book Group

November 4, 2016

$3.99

$11.99

Amazon 

Barnes and Noble 

Smashwords 

About the Book

After her family is killed in the cleansing, Bethany’s purpose in life has changed. No longer will she be allowed to work to save her dying planet. As a slave, endurance is her goal as she marks each day as one moment closer to an eternity spent reunited with those she loved. But when her planet is invaded, everything changes. Now she must decide either to align herself with those from her planet who condemned her faith and killed her family, or with the warriors who have conquered her world. Ultimately her choice will mean life or death for more than just her planet’s ecosystem. She alone holds the key to a powerful secret, and the fate of the entire galaxy depends on her decision.

My Review

Reminiscent of the best Robert Heinlein or Arthur C Clarke stories, Melson explores the Christian faith spread through the galaxy. What might it look like over time and adulteration? It’s not all that different from ethnic cleansing on earth.

A dying world exploited to the extreme by a small group of powerful people are led by an influence of evil greater than time…a race of appointed spacefarers bent on taking over…an interpretation of moral codes passed down from generation to generation and now at great cost…and the cypher to a great formula the price of which is life as known.

I confess to changing my mind several times about the true identities of the good guys and the bad guys, who was telling the truth, but most importantly, who was trustworthy. Melson’s science fiction draws in echoes of my favorite stories, from Romeo and Juliet to Michael Crichton to CS Lewis. I enjoyed trying to decide whether the people of Bethany’s world understood what was at stake, how I might react if such a thing happened on earth, and whether the warriors were based on stories of the Nephilim from Scripture. I wondered what Bethany would decide to do, and who she would trust. Thought-provoking, action-packed, and well told, those who like Christian science fiction will find much to like in Alone.

 About the Author

Edie Melson is a leading professional in the writing industry. She’s a sought after writing instructor; and her heart to help others define and reach their dreams has connected her with writers all over the country. She’s the co-director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, as well as a popular faculty member at numerous others. http://steampunkfables.blogspot.com/

Jan Elder's Love Lies and Fireflies book review

Love, Lies, and Fireflies

Jan Elder

Prism Book Group

Contemporary romance

.99

14.99

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BN 

Smashwords 

About the Book

Didi O’Brien is engaged—at least she was an hour ago. Now she’s not so sure. Her fiancé, the suave Kevin Cabot, has just revealed that he’s been unfaithful, and he’s not the least bit sorry. Reeling from the betrayal, with her plans for a happily-ever-after life in doubt, she prays for direction. The answer comes as a complete surprise. God has someone better in mind.

Middle school teacher, Jake Montgomery, is struggling with some issues of his own. Sadly, a year previously his fiancée had been killed in a car crash. Battling anger and despair, in a mountain-top experience, Jake wrestles with the Almighty, and is ready to live again. In his youth, he’d felt an unmistakable call to the ministry but, like the prophet Jonah, since then, he’s been running hard in the wrong direction.

Through a crisis of faith, and glimpses of mercy, Didi and Jake find each other. But can they find the strength to resolve the many obstacles that conspire to keep them apart?

My review

A woman running into a marriage with a mentally disturbed person and a man running fast and hard from his own perceptions of faithfulness find each other. The right timing, interruptions by events out of their control, and self-revelation will either make them stronger together or apart.

When Didi’s attorney fiancé reveals what a cad he is, Didi walks out on their fancy restaurant dinner not realizing she’s caught the attention of a man healing from loss. That man, Jake, has some lessons to struggle through, though, before he can accept the blessings he’s avoiding. They begin a sweet relationship even as Didi’s former fiancé spirals into criminal behavior and Jake opens his ears and heart to his true calling. They may be able to face their past mistakes and save each other, but unless they are each obedient to their first love, God, they can never move forward, either alone or together.

Love is there—maybe even too quickly. Lies—well, justifying our selfish desires, withholding information either intentionally or innocently, and simple naiveté are all shades of misleading. Fireflies are God’s way of showing off, Didi’s father always said. Didi and Jake just need to pay attention.

Told through multiple viewpoints, Elder’s tale of love gone right and wrong is a sweet one with lots of description of food and fun, friendships and everything fun about falling in love is a very nice read.

Prism Book Group Love Is Series Hoping for Joy

Prism Book Group has released another book in the "Love is..." series of romances based on 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.  Hoping for Joy by Penelope Marzec is about love always hoping.

About the Book:

Hannah stares at the diamond ring on her finger. Her hopes for a wedding fade as Logan puts off the date. Does he love her anymore? Should she hand him the ring and move on? Should Hannah stop praying for a fiancé with no faith?

Logan hopes to save his sister from her addiction while helping his father raise his young niece. With his life in turmoil, Logan’s dreams vanish. One night, his sister holds a knife to Hannah’s throat and robs her. Will Hannah forgive him? What will he do with Joy, his sister’s child? Where can he turn for help?

My Review:

One distracted fiancé is an understatement. Logan is so busy trying to get control of not only his life, but also that of his family. In the process, he loses sight of the things and people precious to him, not the least of which is his faith.

When Hannah wonders if there’s any cause to hope for a future with Logan. It takes some family drama and a real close encounter with the depths of despair to help everything see the truth of what’s important.

Lovingly told romantic story of realigning life’s purpose and realizing we can’t and shouldn’t try to be in control of everything. Multiple viewpoints, nice short, but not simple read.