"grave consequences" by lisa t. bergren

About the book (from Litfuse): For Cora Kensington, the journey of a lifetime takes unexpected twists. And her future-her very life-depends on the decisions she'll make at each crossroad. As her European tour with her newfound family takes her through Austria, France, and Italy, an unseen enemy trails close behind. Meanwhile, a forbidden love continues to claim her heart, putting everyone's plans in danger.

And as Cora stays one step ahead of it all, what might need the most protection is her own heart, torn between the dramatic pursuit of a dashing Frenchman and a man who has been quietly staking claim to her affections all along. Love has dangers all its own. She must escape the bonds of the past and discover the faith to make the right choices, as each one has grave consequences.

My take: Grave Consequences picks up directly following the events of Glamorous Illusions, book one in Bergren's Grand Tour series. This means you absolutely must read Glamorous Illusions prior to reading Grave Consequences ... or you'll end up very confused!

As the group travels from France to Switzerland to Austria to Italy, Cora finds herself more and more drawn to their guide, Will. This is the romance I was rooting for from Glamorous Illusions, yet I could also see the attraction to Pierre the Frenchman. (One of these romances reminded me of a relationship I had once upon a time ... so I was especially invested in the outcome!) But more important than the romance was Cora's quest to discover who she really was—farm girl, heiress, or a mix of the two. Her journey of self-discovery had me cheering for her all along the way.

I did find the middle of the book to drag a bit (at 430 pages, it's long), but once the group arrived in Vienna, I couldn't fly through the pages quickly enough.

Grave Consequences is a fitting sequel to Glamorous Illusions, and I eagerly anticipate the third book, Glittering Promises, which will release in the fall. 4 stars.

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Read an excerpt.
Buy the book.
Get the Kindle version of Glamorous Illusions (book one in the Grand Tour series) for just $2.51.
Read my review of Glamorous Illusions.

About the author: Lisa T. Bergren is the award-winning author of over thirty-five books, with more than 2 million copies sold. A former publishing executive, Lisa now divides her time between writing, editing, parenting three children with her husband, Tim, and dreaming of her next trip to Italy. She lives in Colorado Springs.

Visit http://lisatawnbergren.com.

About the giveaway:

Celebrate the release of Grave Consequences with Lisa T. Bergren by entering to win an iPad Mini!

One "grand" winner receive:

• A brand new iPad Mini
• Grave Consequences and Glamorous Illusions will be pre-loaded onto the Mini!

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 23rd. Winner will be announced on March 25th at Lisa's website.

Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

new e-short from deeanne gist for just 99 cents!

Historical author Deeanne Gist has a new book releasing later this spring, and I can't wait to read it! In the meantime, here's a cheap (99 cent) eShort prelude to the book that will give you a glimpse into Gist's delightful writing style! (Also check out my review of Love on the Line for more about Gist and her books.) Below is a press release from Litfuse, the company I do most of my reviewing for. They'll be touring Gist's new book when it releases.

Deeanne Gist’s E-Short gives readers a peek inside the world’s fair. Tempest in the White City is a digital short story available from online retailers for 99 cents.

Deeanne Gist fans won’t have to wait until the April 30 release of It Happened at the Fair to read her latest work! On March 19, readers will be able to purchase the e-short, Tempest in the White City, a 40-page short story prelude to It Happened at the Fair, for 99 cents from all online retailers. While the characters from the short story are not carried over into the full-length release, audiences will get a taste of the awe-inspiring backdrop of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and will be anxious to spend more time exploring the exhibition.

In true Gist form, Tempest in the White City combines her trademark humor with romance. Hunter Scott is one of the elite. A Chicago World’s Fair guard specifically chosen for his height, physique, character and ability to serve and protect. When Hunter is overcome with debilitating abdominal pain, he stumbles to an infirmary in the Fair’s Woman’s Building only to discover the doctor is female—which he is none too happy about. But even worse, she has the nerve to diagnose him—the toughest man west of anyplace east—with constipation.

The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair overflowed with the latest innovations welcomed by a throng of people from all around the globe. This setting replete with history, intrigue and wonder caught Gist’s attention and is sure to draw readers of both releases in as well. “I’m always drawn to events in our country’s past that are strangely absent from our history classes. Why the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition has been left out, I don’t know, especially since it was such a pivotal event for us,” explains Gist. “We were able to wow the world with our scientific innovations, and it gave women their first official board position recognized and approved by an Act of Congress (all before we had the right to vote). But it was technology which claimed the day as it nipped at the heels of horses, buggies and man-powered tools.”

More about It Happened at the Fair: Young inventor Cullen McNamara gambles everything, including the family farm, in order to make his family proud—and earn his father’s entry money to the Fair Expo back—by selling his design for an automatic sprinkler system inspired by his mother’s death in a mill fire. Struggling with hearing loss from his previous life on the farm, McNamara finds it difficult to communicate with potential buyers over the din in the Fair’s Machinery Building. In an act of desperation, he hires attractive Della Wentworth, a teacher of the deaf, to tutor him in the art of lip-reading. Much like the newly invented Ferris Wheel, Cullen is caught in a whirl between his girl back home, his dreams as an inventor and his unexpected attraction to his new tutor. Can he keep his feet on the ground or will he be carried away?

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

need something to read or watch?

I love books. I love movies. I love TV.

This should come as a surprise to exactly ... no one.

What may surprise you is that I've recently been getting rid of some of my books, movies, and TV seasons. I decided to do this because recently I felt like God was asking me to. I don't want to overspiritualize anything here—it's not like I heard the voice of God say, "Becky, sell your stuff!" But one day while I was reading my Bible, I suddenly had the thought that I should go through my DVD collection and get rid of some things.

Ultimately, it doesn't matter if the thought came from God or just randomly popped into my brain; weeding things out of my collection is a good thing. When I started my blog Cinematic Survey in 2009, I had 162 movies and 39 television seasons on DVD. That number has risen substantially since then. And don't even get me started on my shelves and shelves of books!

About a year ago, I decided to go through my bookshelves and give the books I no longer wanted to the Nebraska Christian library. While it was hard to part with my books at first, each time I look through my shelves, I have an easier time getting rid of a book or ten. And I give away almost all of the review books I read, keeping only the ones I really really love.

While I've been quite happily giving away books, I've found it quite difficult to get rid of any movies. (My Cinematic Survey journey is proof of that—of the 85 movies I've reviewed, I initially decided to keep 72.) But when I had the prompting to go through my collection, I immediately pulled 10 or 12 things off the shelf. Comparatively, that's not very many, but it's a start.

I gave Blendy first pick, and she took several things. The remaining movies and TV seasons were listed on half.com, and I've already sold two things (Bones seasons one and three—for much less than I paid for them, but for more than I'd have made if they remained on my shelf!). I have 13 things listed right now—if you're looking for a really good deal on Edward Scissorhands, I can totally hook you up!

Hopefully, I'll have the same experience with DVDs that I did with books and find that the more I go over the shelves, the easier it will be to weed out the things I don't need to keep. And maybe I'll even make a little money in the process!

"shattered" by dani pettrey

About the book (from the back cover): With All the Evidence Against Him, Only a Sister's Trust Can Save Him Now

When her prodigal brother Reef's return to Yancey, Alaska, is shattered by his arrest for murder, Piper McKenna is determined to protect him.

Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he's also sworn to find the truth. And he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most. With his sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, some unexpected leads complicate the investigation, and pursuing the truth puts Landon's career in jeopardy.

When Piper launches her own investigation, Landon realizes he must protect her from herself—and whatever complications await as the two follow clues deep into Canada's rugged backcountry. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.

My take: Shattered is one of those books that grabs you at the beginning and doesn't let go until you've read the last page!

When I read Submerged, book one in Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series, my favorite aspect by far was the budding relationship between Piper McKenna and Landon Grainger, so I was thrilled to learn they would be the focus of Shattered. Pettrey continued the will-they-or-won't-they dynamic longer than most authors would have, and I loved it! I flew through the pages hoping they would finally admit their feelings for each other.

While I enjoyed Submerged very much, I absolutely loved Shattered. Everything about it is just that much better than the previous book—the suspense, the character development, and especially the romance.

Pettrey also sets up two other possible romances—between Piper's brother Gage and spunky reporter Darcy St. James and between Piper's sister Kayden and the mysterious but loyal Jake—and I eagerly await the next installment of this series, which will focus on Gage and Darcy. (And please, can we finally learn more about Jake? I'm so curious about him!)

With suspense, romance, and a strong family dynamic, this series reminds me of Dee Henderson's O'Malley series—and that's just about the highest praise I can give to romantic suspense! As this is book two in the series, I'd recommend you read Submerged first—basically because there are a lot of McKennas to keep track of, and they're all introduced in book one. And then come back and read Shattered...you'll be so glad you did! 5 stars.

See what other bloggers are saying.
Buy the book.
Read an excerpt.
See my review of Submerged.

About the author: Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom, and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves—the thrill of adventure, nail biting suspense, the deepening of her characters' faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters.

Visit her website at www.danipettrey.com.

About the giveaway: Dani Pettrey is celebrating the release of Shattered with a Nook HD giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party {3/14}. 

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Nook HD
• Submerged and Shattered by Dani Pettrey {Be caught up in this riveting series.}

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 13th. Winner will be announced at the "Shattered" Author Chat Party on 3/14. Connect with Dani for an evening of book chat, trivia, and a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!

So grab your copy of Shattered and join Dani on the evening of the March 14th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 14th!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

much ado about whedon

I was first introduced to Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing in my college Shakespeare class. I read the play and fell in like. I watched the Kenneth Branagh film and fell in love.

I was first introduced to Joss Whedon when my brother and sister-in-law gave me their copy of Firefly to watch. After struggling a bit to make it through the pilot, I liked it. Then I watched Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog. I loved it. Then I bingewatched Dollhouse on Netflix. I joined the ranks of the Whedonites. The only "big" Whedon projects I haven't gotten into are Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel ... and that's because I don't do vampires. Period. I even liked The Cabin in the Woods, and I generally stay as far away from horror films as I can get!

So you can imagine my delight when I learned that Joss Whedon had filmed a modern-day adaptation of Much Ado. To make it even better, he used his friends—actors who have appeared in previous Whedon projects. Nathan Fillion. Amy Acker. Fran Kranz. Clark Gregg. Sean Maher. I could go on and on ... basically, if you're a fan of Whedon's work, you'll recognize a vast majority of the actors.

For a long time after the movie was announced, I couldn't find out much about it, other than the cast list. But now the film has a trailer AND a release date! (June 7—unfortunately, chances are probably pretty slim that it'll be showing in my area. Road trip, anyone?)

Here's the trailer. I couldn't be more excited!

"firefly island" by lisa wingate

About the book (from the back cover): Sometimes love takes you on an adventure completely off the map.

Mallory Hale's life quickly veers off course when she falls hopelessly in love. After a whirlwind romance, Mallory finds herself leaving the bustle and action of Capitol Hill for the remote town of Moses Lake, Texas-with husband, stepson, and a U-Haul in tow.

A sweet, mishap-filled journey into marriage, motherhood, and ranch living ensues, and Mallory is filled with both the wonderment of love and the insecurities of change. But what she can't shake is the unease she feels around her husband's new boss, Jack West. Jack's presence—and his mysterious past—set her on edge, and when hints of a scandal emerge, Mallory finds herself seeking answers . . . and comes to realize that the middle-of-nowhere home she wasn't sure she wanted is the very place she'll risk everything to save.

My take: As I sit here trying to find words to describe Firefly Island, I'm at a loss. There are so many aspects to the story that it's a bit difficult to describe. Contained in the nearly 400 pages you'll find romance, suspense, political intrigue, and humor. But more than that, Firefly Island is about a woman finding her way—to motherhood, to herself, and to her God.

From the opening pages, I was swept into Mallory's story, and I remained captivated until the very end. Author Lisa Wingate does a wonderful job of drawing the reader in and painting a picture in his or her mind. The supporting characters, the vermin (I am so thankful that Nebraska doesn't have scorpions!), and the struggle to begin a marriage while settling into an unknown (and completely foreign) place all struck me as completely realistic.

While I loved the secrecy and tragedy surrounding Jack West, I found the mystery about Mallory's neighbor Al to be one of the highlights of the book, even though it was definitely a subplot. (And I would love, love, love to read a book where Al is the main character. That woman is fascinating!)

The only thing I couldn't quite buy was Mallory's blog "The Frontier Woman." Not only is that name perilously close to The Pioneer Woman, but also we bloggers know that it usually takes time and effort to build a blog's audience. Mallory wasn't famous prior to beginning her blog, so I thought it was rather implausible that she would rise to blogging prominence so quickly.

Firefly Island is the third book in Wingate's Moses Lake series, but it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. After reading this book, I definitely want to go back and read the other two in the series! Blogging quibble aside, I absolutely loved Firefly Island, and I hope Wingate revisits Moses Lake in the future! 4-1/2 stars.

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Buy the book.

About the author: Lisa Wingate is a popular inspirational speaker, magazine columnist, and national bestselling author of several books, including Tending Roses, Talk of the Town, Blue Moon Bay, and Larkspur Cove, which won the 2011 Carol Award for Women's Fiction. Lisa and her family live in central Texas.

Visit her online at www.lisawingate.com.

About the giveaway: Lisa Wingate is celebrating the release of Firefly Island with an iPad Mini giveaway and a fun Facebook Author Chat Party (March 19th).  

  One fortunate winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini
• The Moses Lake series (Firefly Island, Blue Moon Bay and Larkspur Cove)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 18th. Winner will be announced at the "Firefly Island Author Chat Party on March 19th. Connect with Lisa, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways -- gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of Firefly Island and join Lisa on the evening of the March 19th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 19th!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"the return of cassandra todd" by darrel nelson

About the book (from the back cover): Turner Caldwell works at a local motel as a handyman while attending college full-time. On his way to class one day, he is shocked to see Cassandra Todd and her young son in town. The sight of her brings back powerful memories of being bullied in high school-she was the popular head cheerleader and he the target of her friends' mean-spirited pranks.

When Cassandra and her son check into the motel where he works and she asks for his help in eluding her abusive husband, he finds himself entangled in a dangerous drama that will require him to forgive and draw on every skill he has if they are to survive.

My take: The Return of Cassandra Todd deals with a topic that is far too common in real life yet rarely discussed in Christian fiction: spousal abuse. Also, to a lesser degree, the book deals with bullying. Both topics are timely, and I felt that author Darrel Nelson handled these delicate subjects expertly.

As I read the book, I began to get a bit uncomfortable as I could tell that Cassandra, still a married woman, and Turner were falling for each other. I wondered how Nelson would deal with that moral dilemma. In the end, he took the expected route (though not in the way I anticipated). It was an emotionally satisfying conclusion, but I would really have liked to see the characters wrestle more with right and wrong in light of Cassandra's marital status.

One thing I loved about this book was that it was quite unpredictable. I was never quite sure what would happen to Turner and Cassandra next, and the conflict was resolved in a way I didn't see coming. However, at times I felt like I was reading the script to a Lifetime movie—it was entertaining, it was suspenseful, but it wasn't always completely plausible. (If this book was made into a Lifetime movie, I would totally watch it! I guess I like my books to be a bit more realistic than my movies ...) I also wasn't a fan of all of the point of view shifts—when Nelson was writing from Turner's point of view, it was completely believable, but he didn't bring that same credibility to the sections written from Cassandra's perspective.

All told, I did like The Return of Cassandra Todd. It won't make my "Best Books of 2013" list, but I enjoyed the time spent reading it. 3 out of 5 stars.

Buy the book.
Read my review of Nelson's debut novel, The Anniversary Waltz. 

About the author: Darrel Nelson recently retired after thirty-seven years as a schoolteacher so he could devote himself to writing full-time. He now spends his time writing novels, articles, plays, and music and soaking up time with his ten grandchildren. Nelson has bachelor's degrees in English and education from the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada, where he lives with his wife Marsha.

The Return of Cassandra Todd follows Nelson's highly praised debut The Anniversary Waltz.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free for review from Glass Road Media & Management. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the  Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."