Showing posts with label giveaway. Show all posts
Showing posts with label giveaway. Show all posts

Friday, September 19, 2014

Clash of the Titles Turns Four and Celebrates with AmazingGiveaways!

...

Happy Birthday,
Clash of the Titles!

Can you believe Clash of the Titles is FOUR years old?
It hardly seems possible.

Four years ago this month, COTT's arena opened for its first Clash, and it's been going strong ever since! Hundreds of Christian authors have competed, and 58 have left victorious. Each author has earned a special place in our hearts, and we at COTT find it an immense privilege to promote Christ through their work.

Join us this week as both COTT champs and COTT staff celebrate these four,amazing years together!

Over the next four days, our generous champions will be giving away 61 oftheir books.

Sixty-one!

We've divided those books into four giveaways--one for each year God has blessed us!
(See below for today's list.)

Each participant has myriad opportunities to enter the four drawings,
but there will only be FOUR WINNERS.
Will you be one of them??

Find out at Clash of theTitles on Tuesday, September 23rd!

Drawings will be open until Monday night,
September 22 (midnight PST).

Until then, it's free rein on entries.
Don't miss out on the fun!

Below, you'll find the four links, one for each giveaway. 
See the Rafflecopter at the end of each article for your entry options.

GIVEAWAY ONE

GIVEAWAY TWO
GIVEAWAY THREE
GIVEAWAYFOUR

Best wishes!

Monday, July 21, 2014

Becoming Lady Lockwood (Regency Romance) by Jennifer Moore ~ Blast & Tour ~ Review/Giveaway

Becoming Lady LockwoodAbout Book 

Amelia Beckett is delighted to be a widow. Married by proxy to a man she'd never met, Amelia recognizes that a fortuitous entry into widowhood frees her from meddlesome chaperones and matchmakers. Heiress to her mother's sugar plantation in Jamaica, she happily anticipates working in a man's world, with the additional credibility of her new title: Lady Lockwood. But with the arrival of Captain Sir William Drake, her plans quickly go awry . . . William has traversed the Atlantic with one purpose. If he cannot prove that Amelia's marriage to his brother was a fraud, she will be entitled to a sizeable portion of his family's estate. He is determined to return this duplicitous Lady to London for an official hearing, and he carries with him a letter that will ensure her cooperation . . . Left with no choice, Amelia joins the captain on his return voyage to England, and the two quickly find that ship life does not allow for evasion. Amelia and William are ceaselessly thrown together, and amidst fierce storms and ocean battles, what began as antipathy seems to be evolving quite unexpectedly. But as they draw ever closer to their destination, will the impossibility of their circumstances shatter any hope of a future together?

Praise for Becoming Lady Lockwood
"Moore does a lovely job of showcasing sizzle in this must-read for fans of regency and historical romance." ~ Foreword Reviews

Excerpt 
The crew released more sails as the breeze quickened, and Amelia watched, craning her neck as her island home, Jamaica, the pearl of the Antilles, gradually became no more than a small green mound on the horizon. A wave of homesickness washed over her. The ship rolled on the larger ocean waves, and she realized that her discomfort was not strictly limited to nostalgia. She was growing increasingly seasick. Just as she reached this realization, she heard steps coming toward her and turning saw Captain Drake approaching. “Miss Becket, you are looking most unwell. I must insist you take to your quarters and lie down.” Even though he was completely correct, and her stomach was threatening to empty itself, the lack of compassion in his demeanor put her on the defensive. “Indeed, Captain Drake. While I am touched by your concern for my well-being, I have no intention to retire, as I am feeling quite well.” The ship pitched again, and Amelia’s stomach pitched along with it. “I assure you, my concern is for the deck of my ship and for my crew charged with keeping her ­in shipshape condition.” Did the man’s arrogance know no bounds? Amelia felt her head spin in a wave of dizziness, and the captain grabbed onto her elbow. “Your face is green, Miss Becket. I insist you take to your berth.” He spoke sharply, turning to the marine next to her. “Corporal, fetch Dr. Spinner to Miss Becket’s quarters.” She wrenched her arm from his grasp. “Captain, I am not in the least ill.” She spoke through clenched teeth, afraid that if she opened her mouth, the contents of her stomach would make a most unwelcome appearance. She rested her hand in a manner that she hoped appeared casual against the netting of hammocks lining the rail of the ship. But truthfully, besides her determination not to allow the captain to order her about, it was the only thing holding her up. Amelia nearly swooned with relief as Sidney Fletcher hurried toward them. “Miss Becket, are you unwell?” He held her elbow in the same manner as had Captain Drake a moment before, and Amelia leaned against him. “Will you allow me to escort you to your quarters then?” “Thank you, Mr. Fletcher. That would be most welcome. How very gentlemanly of you.” She looked toward Captain Drake and narrowed her eyes. A slight smile tugged at the corner of the captain’s lips, and Amelia found that it infuriated her. But when she opened her mouth to tell him so, her stomach betrayed her, and she was horrified to see her breakfast splatter over Captain Drake’s shiny boots. Amelia and Captain Drake stared at each other in disbelief for one mortifying instant before she felt her stomach clench again and pressed her gloved hands against her mouth. “A bucket!” Captain Drake bellowed. 

Jenny MooreAuthor Jennifer Moore 

Jennifer Moore is a Passionate reader and writer of all things romance, helping her find balance with the rest of her world, which includes a perpetually traveling husband and four active sons, who create heaps of laundry that are anything but romantic. Jennifer has a BA in linguistics from the University of Utah and is a Guitar Hero champion. She lives in northern Utah with her family. You can learn more about her at authorjmoore.com. The author's first book, Becoming Lady Lockwood, is a regency romance centered on the British navy during the Napoleonic Wars of the early 1800s.



My Thoughts

Amelia Beckett is an independent woman running her sugar plantation in Jamaica.  Yet, she still seeks the approval and love of her uncaring father.  She went so far as to agree to marry a man in hopes of pleasing her father. Amelia had never met the man she married by proxy. She became a widow before she even met her husband.  She now carries the name Lady Lockwood, but there seems to be discrepancy in the legality of the marriage. She is ordered by her father to come to London for a hearing on the case.  

Captain Drake Lockwood no sooner learns of his brother's death when he finds his brother had married by proxy. He is determined to prove this so called widow joined  into marriage with his brother by fraudulent means.  He is ordered to bring Miss Beckett to London on his ship, during wartime, to prove whether she entered into the union legally. To Drake's confusion the woman seems to be more than just a black widow. Now he feared whether he could get her safely to London without his ship being fired upon.

I found this story intriguing due to strong will and fortitude of Miss Beckett.  I found it was so sad that her father was so disconnected from his daughter not holding any affections for his only child.  

Captain Drake was not very kind until he got to know the real Miss Beckett.  He was very much an honorable gentleman loved and respected by many.

I could not, did not put this book down until I had read the very last page.  I was sad for it to end.  Loved it from beginning to end.  A true romantic swashbuckler!  The author has written a real winner. She gave many interesting facts as to Captain Drake's warship.  It gave me the feeling of actually how it must have been to be aboard his ship.  I am very much looking forward to reading more from Jennifer Moore.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from the author for an honest review.


book blast button

Blast Giveaway 

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash 

Ends 8/5/14 

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the publisher. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
  a Rafflecopter giveaway


book blast button

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

FOREVER AMISH from Kate Lloyd! Enter to win a Kindle and an Amish-made prize pack!

About Book

The latest book in the Legacy of Lancaster trilogy, Forever Amish introduces us to a young woman about to uncover a shocking secret and find an invitation to a new way of living. This is a story of forgiveness, legacies, and the ties that bind through generations.

It’s the Last Thing She Expects to Find
Sally Bingham needs some time away to sort through the changes in her life and to rethink her upcoming marriage. Despite her ailing father’s hesitations, she takes off for a bed and breakfast in Lancaster County for a weekend away. But her best-laid plans leave her in a near collision with a bishop’s buggy and in the home of a mysterious Amish woman named Lizzie. Lizzie introduces her to a different perspective on life, a charming farmhand named Armin— and opens a Pandora’s box that will forever change Sally’s life.

ABOUT KATE LLOYD

Author Kate Lloyd is a passionate observer of human relationships. A native of Baltimore, Kate spends time with family and friends in Lancaster County, PA, the inspiration for her novels. She is a member of the Lancaster County Mennonite Historical Society. Kate and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest. Kate studied painting and sculpture in college. She’s worked a variety of jobs, including car salesman and restaurateur.
Find out more about Kate at http://katelloyd.com.


Landing page:

The latest book in Kate Lloyd's Legacy of Lancaster trilogy, Forever Amish, introduces us to a young woman about to uncover a shocking secret and find an invitation to a new way of living. This is a story of forgiveness, legacies, and the ties that bind through generations.

Kate is celebrating by giving away an Amish-made prize pack!
forever-pinterest

  One winner will receive:
  • A brand new Kindle Fire
  • A Qillow (A pillow with a lovely surprise inside! It opens to a 40” X 60” quilt ideal for traveling, sports events, and home.)
  •  A Center Diamond wall hanging (Hand-stitched by Old Order Amish quilter Emma Stoltzfus of E.S. Quilts in Lancaster, PA. It measures 42” x 42” and is a traditional Old Order Amish design.)
  • Darling Amish-made faceless dolls (Hand-crafted in Lancaster County, PA. Each measures 12 inches and is individually named. Meet Martha and Henry!)
  • Forever Amish and the rest of the Legacy of Lancaster trilogy by Kate Lloyd
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 29th. Winner will be announced at Kate's blog on July 1st.

Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning and be sure to stop by Kate's blog on July 1st to see if you won!


My Thoughts

Sally Bingham has always been interested in the Amish and has recently been corresponding online with an Amish girl, Lilly Zook. So without informing her father or fiance Sally decided to to visit Lilly's Amish community and stay at the local Bed and Breakfast.  When she arrives she is unable to stay at the Bed & Breakfast and is invited to stay with a local Amish family.  This leads to a chain of events Sally had not expected.  For some reason she feels right at home with the Zook family and their community.  She even helps out or shall we say is working  at a local business. 

An Amish man, Armin works for the Zook family and lives on their property.  He has family he could live with but is more comfortable working and staying on the Zook.s property.  He finds himself attracted to the new boarder and decides to ask her on a date of sorts.

I founds myself drawn into the mystery and romance of this story.  I have enjoyed reading this series and this new addition did not disappoint me.  Their is so much I would like to tell you about the book but then the element of surprise would be lost.  I felt the desperate need of Sally to not only find her roll in life but to also grow in her relationship with God.  Then there is Armin trying to find his place within his own family and community.  

The author gives God the biggest roll in this book as he leads the characters on the path he has planned for each and every one of them.  

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group/David C. Cook/Netgalley for an  honest review.

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

THANKFUL BY SHELLEY SHEPARD GRAY | BOOK GIVEAWAY AND BLOG TOUR

About Book: 

Thankful, Book Two in the Return to Sugarcreek series

New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray captures the beauty, devotion, and warmth of Amish life in this engaging tale of family, commitment, trust, and love set in the beloved community of Sugarcreek.

Christina Kempf has always known that God chose Aden Reese to be her husband. As children, he was there to save her when she fell through the ice, and he's been by her side ever since. After his parents died in a car accident ten years ago, the Kempfs raised Aden as one of their own, and everyone sees Aden and Christina as brother and sister. But Christina has never given up hope that Aden will one day ask her to be his wife.

Aden always planned to court Christina. But losing his mother and father changed everything---except his love for her. Her parents generously welcomed him into their home and treated him like a son. He can't betray their kindness by admitting his feelings for the girl who is like a sister . . . yet so much more.

Pressured by her parents to court, Christina begins to accept the attentions of Sugarcreek's young men, and now, Aden must make a choice. Will he stand by and watch the love of his life slip away? Or will he risk losing the love and trust of the family he holds dear to tell Christina how he truly feels?

Thankful includes a P.S. section with additional insights from the author, background material, suggestions for further reading, and more.


About Author: 

About the author: Shelley Shepard Gray is a two-time New York Times bestseller, a two-time USA Today bestseller, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time Holt Medallion winner. She lives in Southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.

 More about author: websiteFacebook


Enter to win the first two books in Shelley's Return to Sugarcreek series, Hopeful & Thankful. a Rafflecopter giveaway
My Thoughts:

Christina Kempf surrendered her heart to Aiden Reese when they were young children.  He was her hero, best friend and protector.  He was taken in by her family after the tragic death of his parents.  They have not revealed the depth of their love for for each other fear the other only carries the love of a sibling. 

Christina makes the move to court other young Amish men at the persistence of her parents.  This rips a hole in Aiden's heart. He is afraid of loosing her but also fears loosing the respect of Christina's parents if he were to reveal his true feelings for their daughter.  

This story touched my heart to the point I had to keep a box of tissues in my lap while reading the book.  In fact it did not take me long to read the book because I refused to put the book down until the very end.  

The story had so much to offer me as a reader. It was tragic, romantic and it had dedication to family and community.  Lessons were learned in trusting God without fear and to pray He for Him to lead us to the life He has planned for us.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5  out of 5.

Disclosure: 
I received a free copy of this book from HarperCollins /Avon Inspire/
Litfuse Publicity Group for an honest review.


Saturday, May 17, 2014

MOMS’ NIGHT OUT BY TRICIA GOYER | BLOGGER CHALLENGE AND TOUR

Moms Night Out Tricia Goyer Kerri Pomarolli

Motherhood can sometimes seem like survival of the fittest. Every day brings its own troubles, and by the end of the day, you’re spent. Between school, soccer practice, cleaning, laundry, cooking dinner, putting away dishes, and keeping your kids from going at each others’ throats, the last thing on your mind is getting away for an evening. If that’s you, you’re invited to take part in Tricia and Kerri’s No More Frumpy Mommy challenge.
Tricia and Kerri will choose 10 winners to receive a Fandango gift card to see Moms’ Night Out, as well as copies of Moms’ Night Out (the book) and Moms’ Night Out and Other Things I Miss. One grand-prize winner will receive $200 to put toward her own moms’ night out or her own moms’ night out “ride” (getting her car detailed and cleaned).

ABOUT BOOK 

Moms’ Night Out is a novelization of the hilarious family comedy that celebrates real family life—where everything can go wrong and still turn out all right. 


All Allyson and her friends want is a peaceful, grown-up evening of dinner and conversation . . . a long-needed moms’ night out. But in order to enjoy high heels, adult conversation and food not served in a bag, they need their husbands to watch the kids for a few hours—what could go wrong? 

Chronicling one night out gone awry, three harried moms, their husbands, a sister-in-law with a misplaced baby, a tattoo parlor owner, a motorcycle gang, and a bewildered cabbie all learn to embrace the beautiful mess called parenting. This book spotlights the unfulfilled expectations and serial self-doubts many moms feel . . . then reassures us that the key is raising kids in a loving home. Mom’s Night Out is an endearing, true-to-life comedy. 

The MOMS’ NIGHT OUT film features Sarah Drew (Grey’s Anatomy), Sean Astin (THE LORD OF THE RINGS), Patricia Heaton (EVERBODY LOVES RAYMOND, THE MIDDLE), Alex Kendrick (COURAGEOUS), Robert Amaya (COURAGEOUS), Andrea Logan White (REVELATION ROAD), Kevin Downes (COURAGEOUS), and platinum-selling country recording artist Trace Adkins (THE LINCOLN LAWYER). 

Learn more and purchase a copy at Tricia’s website.




USA Today best-selling author Tricia Goyer has written the novelization to the much-anticipated movie, Moms’ Night Out. Don’t miss this hilarious family comedy that celebrates real family life—where everything can go wrong and still turn out all right.
Look for the companion devotional written by comedian Kerri PomarolliMoms’ Night Out and Other Things I Miss: Devotions To Help You Survive.
Tricia and Kerri have teamed up for the “No More Frumpy Mommy” challenge


{MORE ABOUT TRICIA GOYER}no

USA Today best-selling author Tricia Goyer is the author of over 35 books, including the three-book Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and “Lead Your Family Like Jesus,” (co-written with Ken Blanchard). She has written over 500 articles for national publications and blogs for high traffic sites like TheBetterMom.com and MomLifeToday.com. She is the host of Living Inspired, a weekly radio show. Tricia and family live in Little Rock, Arkansas. They have six children. 
Find out more about Tricia at http://triciagoyer.com.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Amber Perry, Author of So Fair A Lady, Shares Her Fun Top Ten Pet Peeves! Giveaway!























Today Amber Perry's Top Ten Pet Peeves!

 "My top ten pet peeves!  
This was THE funnest interview I have ever done."

1. Loud chewing. In person, over the phone, on the telly--just yuck!

2. Loud SWALLOWING. Even worse. ;)

3. Sticky anything--floors, handles, knobs--you name it. Things should not be sticky!!

4. Rudeness! Can this be a pet peeve? I can't stand it when people are rude!

5. Bathrooms that don't clean themselves. 

6. Long, boring, gray winters with no snow and no rain and no sun. Only clouds. *bleh*

7. Clam chowder. I strongly believe that clams were never, EVER made to be eaten.

8. Finding an AWESOME vintage dress ON SALE--only to find its not really on sale.

9. Going to the beach and bringing half of the sand home with you.

10. My nose. ;) (mostly kidding. Mostly.)



CLICK ON IMAGE BELOW TO ENTER 
"SO FAIR A LADY" GIVEAWAY




Friday, May 9, 2014

So Fair A Lady, Daughters of His Kingdom Series #1 by Amber Lynn Perry ~ Giveaway

About Book

Boston, MA 1773: Shards of Eliza Campbell’s life crash to the ground when she discovers a devastating secret: her father was a spy for the Sons of Liberty. Determined to uncover the truth—at any cost—not even a marriage proposal from the dashing British Officer Samuel Martin can dissuade her. When rescued from British capture by handsome patriot Thomas Watson, Eliza discovers what her father risked his life for and yearns to know more. But will her budding attraction to this courageous patriot damage her already wounded heart?
After years of being blackmailed by Officer Martin, Thomas plans to start a new life in the small town of Sandwich. However, when his actions place Eliza and her sister in danger, he must act quickly to protect them from falling into enemy hands. If the three of them are discovered, their lives will never be the same. Now, not only must he protect Eliza, he must protect his heart from a love that is sure to wound him far greater than any British soldier ever could.
  • ISBN-13: 9781497518407
  • Publication date: 4/22/2014
  • Pages: 394
Where to Purchase:  Amazon, Barnes & Noble


About Author

A happy-go-lucky homemaker with a passion for historical Christian romances! If I'm not feeding a baby or coloring with my 3 year old, I am reading! My biggest concern everyday is making sure that everything I do
is for the glory of God. I love the Lord and I'm grateful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The thing I love most about these books is that they help to draw me closer to Him!

Website: http://amberlynnperry.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoramberlynnperry
Twitter: @AmberWrites1773


My Thoughts

Eliza Campbell thought her worst day was the death of her father but it was the first of many bad days to come. Her life was not what she was raised to believe.  Her father kept secrets to protect both of his daughters.  Now it will be up to Eliza to protect hererself and her younger sister.  Her beau, British Officer Samuel Martin surprisingly was not the man her father wanted to her to marry. 

Thomas Watson feels it is his responsibility to rescue Eliza and her sister from none other than British Officer Martin. When Officer Martin finds the error in his orders he is positive the women were kidnapped by a patriot by the name of Thomas Watson.  Now Samuel is determined to track down the kidnapper and bring his love Eliza and her sister back him and to their home. 

Thomas must find a way to reveal the truth to Eliza about her father's mission and Thomas's role in that mission.

This is what I would call a block buster book. I was mesmerized by this exploding story of action, danger, romance, faith, hope and redemption.  It's a real page turner.  I loved Thomas Watson, he had such admiration and dedication to his cause as a patriot.  He was also very committed to protect Mr. Campbell's daughters.  

I am looking forward to reading more from this author.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from the author for an honest review.  



Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Win a NEW Spring Wardrobe from @TheQuiltsofLove | “Maybelle in Stitches” Giveaway! 4/11

Don’t miss the newest Quilts of Love book, Maybelle in Stitches, by Joyce Magnin. Maybelle can’t sew. But when she finds an unfinished quilt in the attic of her mother’s house, she gets the crazy idea to complete it.
Joyce is celebrating the release with a $200 Modcloth giveaway. Enter today for a chance to spruce up your spring wardrobe!

qol-maybelle-400-click

  One winner will receive:
  • A $200 ModCloth.com gift card
  • Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron
  • A Sky Without Stars by Linda S. Clare
  • Maybelle in Stitches by Joyce Magnin
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 19th. Winner will be announced on April 21st on the Quilts of Love blog!

Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER.

Friday, March 28, 2014

DANCING WITH FIREFLIES || RSVP for April 10th Facebook Party and enter to win a Kindle HDX from @DeniseAHunter!

Don't miss Denise Hunter's latest Chapel Springs Romance, Dancing with Fireflies. Reviewers have already labeled Dancing with Fireflies "swoon-worthy" and "the perfect love story." 

Join Denise in celebrating the release of her new book by entering her Kindle HDX giveaway and RSVPing for her April 10th Facebook party.


fireflies-400-click

One winner will receive:
  • A brand new Kindle Fire HDX
  • Dancing with Fireflies and Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 10th. Winner will be announced at the Dancing with Fireflies Facebook Party on April 10th. Connect with Denise for an evening of prizes, book chat, and an exclusive look at the next book in the series.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 10th!



Blog Touring Schedule 3/24 – 4/10

Sunday, March 16, 2014

Where Courage Calls by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan

About the book: 

Her courage and her heart will be tested in ways she never expected . . .

Beth Thatcher has spent her entire life in the safe, comfortable world of her family, her friends, and the social outings her father's wealth provides. But Beth is about to leave it all behind to accept a teaching position in the rugged foothills of western Canada. Inspired by her aunt Elizabeth, who went west to teach school several years ago, and gently encouraged by her father, Beth resolves to put her trust in God and bravely face any challenge that comes her way.

But the conditions in Coal Valley are even worse than she'd feared. A recent mining accident has left the town grieving and at the mercy of the mining company. The children have had very little prior education, and many of the locals don't even speak English. There isn't even a proper schoolhouse. In addition, Beth's heart is torn between two young men---both Mounties, one a lifelong friend and the other a kind, quiet man who comes to her aid more than once.

Despite the many challenges, Beth is determined to make a difference in the rustic frontier town. But when her sister visits from the East, reminding her of all the luxuries she's had to give up, will Beth decide to return to her privileged life as soon as the school year is over?

Purchase a copy and read an excerpt: http://ow.ly/tyWJH 


About Authors:

Janette Oke Celebrated for her significant contribution to the Christian book industry, Janette Oke is the recipient of numerous awards. Her novels have sold more than 30 million copies and are beloved by readers around the world. Janette lives with her husband, Edward, in Alberta, Canada. 

Laurel Oke Logan is the daughter of Edward and Janette Oke, is the author of "Janette Oke: A Heart for the Prairie," as well as the novel "Dana's Valley," which she co-wrote with her mom. Laurel and her husband have six children and two sons-in-law and live near Indianapolis, Indiana.



My Thoughts

Beth is made to endure a going away party her mother has arranged for her which was against Beth's wishes.  Her mother has invited the very elite of society.  He main comfort and support at the party is her father.  Beth has taken a teaching position in the remote foothills of western Canada.  This is a great undertaking for such a refined lady but she is sure she up to the challenge. After all her aunt had taken a teaching position in a remote area in Canada several years back.  

When Beth arrives at her destination of Coal Valley the conditions were poor.  The families had very little in shelter, clothing and food.  Many of the families had lost their husbands and fathers in a mine cave in.  She is also informed she will be holding school in a pool hall.  Her mother would be mortified.  To her great pleasure the people of this mining town were mostly pleasant.  The town was protected by the Canadian Mounties.  Which gave her a small sense of security.

This was an informative read.  I remember watching shows with the very impressive Canadian Mounties.  I like historical novels and this book was an exceptional read .  

The authors write of a brave woman that takes on such an adventure where she would be in danger on a daily basis.  This was the wilderness of all wilderness.  She had a very big heart and a great desire to teach children in order to give them a chance at a better life.  

I see Janette Oke as one of these women cutting a path for our young women to follow in her footsteps.  I have so much love and respect for women authors who have given me many hours of reading pleasure.  

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group/Bethany House for review. I was in no way compensated for this review.  This review is my honest opinion.


 

Saturday, February 1, 2014

The Complete Amish Wedding Series BookBlast



  The Complete Amish Wedding Series
 This boxed set features all six books in the Amish Wedding series including:


Amish Wedding

Rebecca Lapp has her life back together after a tough break up. She's found a new man and is finally happy once again. But when her ex comes back into town wanting her back, Rebecca will be forced to make a decision that will change her life forever.


An Amish Widower's Heart

Two years after Henry King loses his wife in a freak accident, he's still trying to cobble his life back together. But he knows that if he doesn't stop lingering on the past, he'll have no future. But can he love again? And just how far is the journey back to happiness?


The Amish Late Bloomer

Almost all of Elizabeth Stoltz's friends are married with kids. Elizabeth meanwhile finds herself back on the dating scene again after a crushing heartbreak. And she quickly finds out that being single at twenty-one year old leaves few options for finding the perfect guy. But Elizabeth is determined to find the love of her life. Will Elizabeth be able to find the love she's been looking her whole life for, is it already too little too late for her?


Beachy Amish Romance

After a rough break up, Benjamin Stoltz moves from Lancaster to the Florida Amish community of Pinecraft looking for a fresh start. But Benjamin soon realizes that finding romance in Florida has some unique problems of its own.


This Side Of Heaven

Mary Stoltz has a clear idea in her head of what she wants her dream man to be like. But her romantic reality has fallen far short of her dreams. Not to mention she is at the tail end of her rumspringa with seemingly not a single good suitor in sight. But when Mary finally meets a handsome and interesting man, will her love life finally live up to the dreams in her head?


Amish Homecoming

David Lapp has his rumspringa in the city cut short when he finds out that his mother has been in an accident. But when he returns to Lancaster to take care of her, secrets from the past come to light that will change the direction of his life forever.

Praise for The Complete Amish Wedding Series
"I had trouble putting the book down. I enjoy the stories about the trials in their lives and the way they rise above them with a little assistance from Gott. Nice clean romances are a great to get away and relax. Thank you for the Great read." ~Teresa Thornock (Goodreads)

Excerpt 
"I don't ever want this moment to end," Hannah King said.
"Neither do I," Henry King replied.
It was a brisk fall day. The kind that made you want to snuggle close to someone you loved. For Hannah and Henry, that was easy. They lived for each other. They were a match made in heaven. And when they were together, it felt like paradise.
Hannah and Henry had been married almost two years. And yet the honeymoon phase was far from over. They still had that glow about each other. An undeniable chemistry. The couple had heard that marriage was work. That everything wouldn't go as smoothly as they expected. They didn't find that to be true though.
For Hannah and Henry, the married life was amazingly simple--even for an Amish couple. After work, they always tried to watch the sunset together. It was a tradition, carrying over from their first date. And Lord willing, they caught a glimpse of the sun dancing across the sky as much as they could.
"Do you think it's always going to be like this?" Hannah asked.
"Gott is the only one that knows for sure. But I sure hope so," Henry remarked.
"You know, I've been thinking a lot about the future," Hannah said.
"Only good things I hope," Henry replied.
"Are you kidding? I have you. What could go wrong?" Hannah asked.
"That's my line," Henry joked.
"I figured you wouldn't mind me borrowing it," Hannah replied.
"You can borrow it anytime you want if you're going to use it on me," Henry said.
"Why don't we go back to talking about our future?" Hannah joked.
"It's funny. My parents always brought me up to stay in the present. To just appreciate what was in front of me," Henry explained.
"Well, I certainly like what's in front of me," Hannah interrupted.
"Thanks to you though, I've found myself starting to look to the future," Henry admitted.
"Look at you, living dangerously," Hannah joked.
"I wish I could be more like you. Looking at the world with nothing but hope in my eyes. But I was raised to keep my feet on the ground. To not let my head drift into the clouds. So optimism is all new to me," Henry said.
"Don't worry. I'm with you every step of the way," Hannah replied.
"I can't think of a better guide," Henry remarked.
"But now that I'm changing your mind about the world, how does the future look now?" Hannah asked.
"As bright as can be," Henry said.

There were certain memories that Henry could never forget. That became burned into his brain. For Henry, that conversation with his wife was one of them. And although the conversation happened over a year ago, it was still as fresh in Henry's mind as ever. It was the last good memory he had of his wife. The next day she died of a freak brain aneurysm.
It was all such a shock. Completely out of the blue. There were no warning signs. No symptoms. In the middle of a conversation a blood vessel in her brain just blew and she collapsed to the ground. There was no way to prepare for the a tragedy like that, especially when it was such a freak occurence. Henry turned to Gott for an explanation, but received none. And he'd been trying to cobble his life back together ever since.
It was all such a complete tragedy. The best thing in Henry's life was taken from him in an instant, without warning and without reason. Not to mention that Hannah was only twenty-three years old. She had so much to look forward to. So much in her future. There should have been children on the way. Glorious days spent in the park. Vacations at the beach. And holidays with relatives. It would be a simple life. But it would also be a joyful one. It just wasn't meant to be though.
Even a year after her death, Henry woke up in disbelief that Hannah was gone. And despite having the whole bed available to him, Henry only slept on his side. He never dared to inch his body to Hannah's side. It was just a force of habit. He knew that it defied logic. That Hannah wouldn't be returning to claim her side of the bed. Still, it was the little routines that gave Henry comfort.


BeccaAuthor Becca Fisher I'm Becca Fisher and I write sweet Amish romances featuring simple people with complex love lives. I'm devout in my faith, relish time with my family, and seek to bring joy to as many lives as possible. I would love to have you as a reader. God bless.

     

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