Feasted On: The Patchwork Family Series, Book 1 | #BookReview #KarenWitemeyer @bethany_house

- This was an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon: Hardcover - Pages: 352, Paperback - Pages: 352; Kindle Edition - File Size: 7334 KB; Audible Audiobook – Unabridged | Release Date: June 5, 2018 | Publisher: Baker Publishing Group : Bethany House Publishers | Obtained: NetGalley / Bethany House Publishers

"More Than Meets the Eye" [The Patchwork Family Series, Book 1] by Karen Witemeyer

Author's Book Description : Many consider Evangeline Hamilton cursed. Orphaned at a young age and possessing a pair of mismatched eyes--one bright blue, the other dark brown--Eva has fought to find her way in a world that constantly rejects her. Yet the support of even one person can help overcome the world's judgments, and Eva has two--Seth and Zach, two former orphans she now counts as brothers.

Seeking justice against the man who stole his birthright and destroyed his family, Logan Fowler arrives in 1880s Pecan Gap, Texas, to confront Zach Hamilton, the hardened criminal responsible for his father's death. Only instead of finding a solitary ruthless gambler, he discovers a man not much older than himself with an unusual family. When Zach's sister, Evangeline, insists on dousing Logan with sunshine every time their paths cross, Logan finds his quest completely derailed. Who is truly responsible for his lost legacy, and will restoring the past satisfy if it means forfeiting a future with Evangeline?

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars!

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden | Review, Kindle Fire Giveaway & Facebook Party

Today I'm turning my blog over to Elizabeth Camden, with a review of her latest release "Beyond All Dreams!!"

ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAY(s) (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from January 26 - February 17, 2015 | Giveaway ends on February 17, 2015 | Elizabeth's "Beyond All Dreams" Author Chat Party on Facebook is on February 17, 2015]

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- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Hardcover - Pages: 546, Paperback - Pages: 369; Kindle Edition - File Size: 4070 KB | Expected Release Date: December 30, 2014 | Publisher: Baker Publishing Group : Bethany House Publishers | Obtained: Litfuse Publicity Group / NetGalley

"Beyond All Dreams" by Elizabeth Camden

Author's Book Description : Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they’ve ever dreamed for their futures?

Anna O’Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across the baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. Thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.

Luke Callahan was one of the nation’s most powerful congressmen before his promising career was shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglements with members of Congress.

From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation’s finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they’ve ever dreamed for their futures?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars! A young up-and-coming Congressman from Maine and a female Library of Congress map librarian's path cross. One dreams of things being peaceful everywhere and hopes to be the one to make it happen. The other hopes to uncover what truly happened to her father after finding a false report. Together they should be able to get through anything but will they be able to trust each other enough to see their dreams through to the end?

This novel is for Ancestry and Historical Romance lovers! Because it follows historical events really well, while throwing enough flirtation between Luke & Anna in the mix to keep you intrigued. In addition, because of Anna being a map librarian she is determined to get to the truth of everything no matter the consequences because she feels that the documents in the Library of Congress should be completely accurate as possible since you never know how future generations will look at that document and do with it later. Since Anna feels that way it made me really like her as a character, as I've been a genealogist for my family since 1999 and I completely understand where she was coming from. To top off my love for the characters I find out that Luke is a Congressman from Maine and I'm originally from Maine so yeah I found that pretty cool too.

Together I found I liked and respected Luke & Anna, where they were coming from because of their pasts to how they grew into their romantic relationship. Through it all, they were very sweet and accepting of one another. Also, it was fun reading their bantering. However, what really ruined my love for this novel was when Luke found out the real reason behind the false report and acted completely cold to Anna. I understand his temper, and I could have gotten over everything if he tried to work things out a bit quicker. Yet a few hours before finding out the truth, he talks about marriage then after he learns the truth, he acts like he doesn't even know her. Yes, he was protecting her in his own way but I just didn't like it and it made it hard for me to like the novel as I previously did. Nevertheless, with that being said I still like them together, how everything worked out between them, and the novel itself.

I recommend this novel to those who like doing Ancestry and/or like reading Historical romances!!

Purchase This Book Here : Kobo (e-Book)


Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: Beyond All Dreams | Beyond All Dreams | Beyond All Dreams Sneak Peek

Book Teaser(s) :

"I can bring you a chisel and a clay tablet if you'd prefer. I believe they have some in the museum."
He set the pen down and fastened that enigmatic gaze on her. "Yes, please."
"Yes please . . . what?"
"I'd prefer a chisel and a clay tablet. You see, Miss O'Brien, I like old things. I prefer the challenge of a time when men went out and killed something when they were hungry, rather than opening a tin of processed meat. I don't want perfumed soap and a trickle of water from a copper pipe. I want a healthy blast from a frigid New England waterfall. I don't want the tinny noise from a gramophone. I want the thunder and vibrations of a real orchestra pounding out a Beethoven symphony. Technology has made us soft. I like hard muscle and loud voices and the satisfaction of a sweaty day of labor."
"You wear sparkly jewelry," she countered.
"I wear rocks hauled out of the land I own. Trophies, if you will." His eyes gleamed, and he looked flushed with health and vigor. Standing this close to him, she barely reached his shoulder, and his enthusiasm was palpable.
She held up the slim pen. "This is a trophy of modern times. If you'd like to fill out a research request, it is the device you will need to use."
"Miss O'Brien," she said in a long, slow drawl. "You don't think I intend to fill out that ridiculous slip of paper, do you?"
"I'm going to assume that was a rhetorical question and you aren't really expecting an answer." ~ within Chapter 3

"Will you go for a walk with me?"
"Not unless you calm down. I generally don't walk alongside men with homicidal interests in poison." ~ within Chapter 8

Post by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews.

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Elizabeth, then please check out her website.

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About the Author :

A research librarian and associate professor, Elizabeth Camden has a master’s in history from the University of Virginia and a master’s in library science from Indiana University. She has published several articles for academic publications and is the author of four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. Elizabeth lives with her husband in central Florida.

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Giveaway(s)!! :

Travel back in time to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress in Elizabeth Camden's newest release, "Beyond All Dreams." From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Elizabeth is celebrating the release of "Beyond All Dreams" with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.


One grand prize winner will receive :

• A Kindle Fire
• A copy of "Beyond All Dreams" by Elizabeth Camden

To Enter : Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/17. Winner will be announced at the "Beyond All Dreams" Facebook author chat party on February 17th. RSVP for a chance to connect with Elizabeth and historical fiction fans, as well as for the opportunity to win some great prizes!



{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}
Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP TODAY. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, and/or PINTEREST to increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 17th!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Litfuse's other Blog Tour Reviews for this novel!!

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Find Elizabeth Camden :

• Elizabeth Camden - Website & Blog
• Facebook Page
• Pinterest
• Goodreads

Disappointmentville: Refined by Love Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 346; Kindle Edition - File Size: 4142 KB | Expected Release Date: September 30, 2014 | Publisher: Baker Publishing Group : Bethany House Publishers | Obtained: Litfuse Publicity Group

"The Brickmaker’s Bride" [Refined by Love Series, Book 1] by Judith Miller (aka Judith McCoy Miller)

Author's Book Description : Yearning for a fresh start, Ewan McKay travels with his aunt and uncle from northern Scotland to West Virginia, promising to trade his skills in the clay business for financial assistance from his uncle Hugh. Hugh purchases a brickmaking operation from a Civil War widow and her daughter, but it’s Ewan who gets the business up and running again. Ewan seeks help from Laura, the former owner’s daughter, and he feels a connection with her, but she’s being courted by another man–a lawyer with far more social clout and money than Ewan. Besides, Ewan has resolved he’ll focus on making the brickmaking operation enough of a success that he can become a partner in the business and be able to afford to bring his sisters over from Scotland.

But when Hugh signs a bad business deal, all Ewan’s hard work may come to naught. As his plans begin to crumble, Laura reveals something surprising. She and her mother may have a way to save the brickworks, and in turn Ewan may have another shot at winning Laura’s heart.

My Book Review : 2.5 out of 5 stars, a man sets out to America to create a better life for himself and his three younger sisters has to deal with deceiving relatives and powerful men hoping to see him fail while praying that God will see him through.

I had high hopes for this novel, and while I liked Ewan, Laura, and their relationship, it still didn't meet my expectations. I mostly feel that way because it was hard for me to take Ewan's Uncle Hugh & Aunt Margaret's constant scathing comments. If Ewan was real instead of fictional, I wouldn't know how he could've put up with the remarks as long as he did. In truth, the actions of Aunt Margaret, Uncle Hugh, and Winston (Laura's suitor) really made it difficult for me to get through this novel because animosity seemed never ending at times.

However, as I said before I liked Ewan & Laura. Them being together and seeing how their relationship played out was the only reason I stuck with this novel. Ewan has a great head on his shoulders and with Laura's sweet ways; together they make a good couple. I did like how their personal story wrapped up it was very endearing.

Since this is the first novel in Ms. Miller's Refined by Love Series, I am very curious to see where this will go next.

Even though I had a hard time reading this novel I did like its plot, because of that I do recommend it to those who like Christian historical romances.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

Author's Novel Extras : The Brickmaker’s Bride - Overview


Author's Series Extras : Refined by Love Series - Overview

Book Teaser(s) :

"I will have you know that a brick is not a brick, Winston, and Ewan did not wave a white flag." Laura's eyes flashed with anger. "Do you also believe that all shoes are alike?"
"There's nothing similar about shoes and bricks, Laura." There was a hint of disdain in Winston's voice.
Laura stopped short. "There is a similarity between shoes and bricks. A good shoe depends upon how the leather is tanned and on the talent of the cobbler. A good brick depends upon the quality of the clay and the talent of the brickmaker. If a brick isn't dried long enough before entering the kiln or if the burner doesn't know how to maintain a proper fire, the brick may look good on the outside, but crack under pressure." She tipped her head to one side and lifted an eyebrow. "I believe politicians sometimes crack under pressure, as well. Don't you agree?" ~ within Chapter 9

Post by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews.

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Judith, then please check out her website.

Guest Post :: Self-Publishing – the Good, the Bad and the Ugly by Jenna Bennett | Small Business Saturday

In honor of Small Business Saturday (today--November 30th) I'm hosting guest posts from authors who were interested in helping out! So, here is a post by Jenna Bennett, author of "Tall, Dark, and Divine" & "Fortune's Hero," about what it's like to be a self-published author!!

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Self-Publishing – the Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Once upon a time, in the dark ages of 2006, when I’d just written THE END on the last page of my first completed manuscript and had to decide what to do with it, there was really only one option open to me: Query, find an agent, and if you’re lucky, sell it to a publisher.

If you’re unlucky, write another and repeat the process.

At that point, self-publishing was for the people who hadn’t been able to snag the attention of an agent and/or an editor.

If you were good enough, the wisdom went, you’d get a traditional publishing contract. If you weren’t... well, only people who weren’t good enough, self-published.

By 2011, when I got the rights to that first book back, the publishing landscape had changed. Self-publishing was no longer only for the rejected, the down at heel. It was the ‘in’ thing. Everyone was doing it, and people were getting filthy rich, which made more people want to do it. Suddenly, self-pub had gone from being the anti-Christ to the second coming.

So I gave it a try. I had a book that had been published, where the publisher had returned the rights to me after declining to publish the rest of the series. I had three books written and edited, one book written but not edited, and another halfway done. Over the course of six or eight months that year, I published all of them.

And sat back and waited for the money to start rolling in.

And waited.

And waited some more.

Believe it or not, the money didn’t roll in. It trickled, though. Slowly. Three years later, I still haven’t sold a million copies of my books, although I’ve published more of them since. And I’m making a living, which is a big deal to many writers.

Turns out, self-publishing is just another way to get content to readers. It’s neither the anti-Christ nor the second coming. It isn’t a miracle cure or a get-rich-quick scheme. It’s just another aspect of the publishing game. And the things that work in traditional publishing, tend to work in self-publishing as well, now that things have settled down into a more steady groove.

The more books you have available, the more money you’ll make.

Put out a professional product, and people will buy it.

Cream does rise to the top.

I’m a hybrid author these days. I do some traditional publishing and some self-publishing. There’s more self-pub, but only because it’s faster to get the books out when I can do it myself. There’s no one else’s production time to take into account. When you publish with a publishing house, there’s the editor’s time, and the copy-editor’s time, and the proof-reader’s time, and the cover designer’s time, and the sales team’s time to consider in addition to your own. When you’re all of those, you’re doing all the work, but you control the timing. So for every trad book I put out, I manage two, maybe even three, self-published books.

Not because they’re of inferior quality, though. Coming from a traditional publishing background is a real bonus in the self-publishing game. When you’ve been through the process a few times, and you see just how much goes into a publisher’s putting out a professional and polished product, and how many eyes are on that manuscript before it’s deemed polished enough, you realize just how much work you have to do to put out a comparable product on your own.

And that’s what you have to do. Because if self-publishing is just another way to get content to readers, then your self-published book is going to have to compete in the same marketplace as the traditionally published books from Random Penguin, and Simon & Schuster, and HarperCollins, and Harlequin. And while you may feel that the traditionally published books out there are not up to the snuff they ought to be, they’re usually professionally edited, copy-edited, proof-read and packaged. However you may feel about the writing or the story, the product – with a very few exceptions – is a professional one.

So while signing with a publisher will get you an editor who works with you on story structure and characterization and sometimes grammar, and a copy-editor who checks all your facts and figures and makes sure you’re not messing up your history, and a proof-reader who makes sure (after you do) that you haven’t left any errors, and a cover artist, and a cover designer, and an interior designer and formatter, all of whom make sure your book looks as lovely as it can possibly look, not to mention a sales and/or marketing department whose job it is to get your book into the public eye, where it can be seen and bought – because nobody can buy it if they don’t know it’s there... when you’re self-publishing, you have to do all those things yourself, or hire someone to do them for you.

It isn’t for the faint of heart.

If you don’t get off on the control, it’s probably not for you.

If your heart doesn’t beat a little faster at the thought of being the master of your own fate, you’re probably better off with a publisher.

And if you just want to write, and you don’t want to deal with the cover design, or the marketing, or the whole career-building bit, do yourself a favor and go the traditional route.

You’ll be happier, trust me.

It isn’t for everyone.

And that’s fine. Not being a self-publisher doesn’t make you a failure, any more than not being able to sell a book to traditional publishing ten years ago made you a failure. It made you not a good fit. And there’s nothing wrong with that.

Because if self-pub is just another way of getting product to market, it’s not better or worse than any other way of getting product to market.

It’s neither the anti-Christ nor the second coming. It’s a direction you can choose to take your career, if you think it’s something you’ll enjoy. Or it’s a direction you can choose to ignore, if you think you won’t. Trad publishing isn’t going anywhere, in spite of what the first wave of self-publishers claimed five years ago. 70% of all books sold in the U.S. every year are still print books, and getting print books into stores is something you still can’t do on your own. Whether seeing your book on the self at Barnes & Noble or your local indie bookstore is important to you, is something only you can answer for yourself.

There’s good and bad in every aspect of publishing. There’s even a little bit of ugly once in a while. And we all have to choose for ourselves what our priorities are, and where we fit in the scheme of things.

It’s a great time to be a writer. The opportunities are practically endless. And that’s a very good thing!

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About the Author :

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jenna Bennett (Jennie Bentley) writes the Do It Yourself home renovation mysteries for Berkley Prime Crime and the Cutthroat Business mysteries for her own gratification. She also writes a variety of romance for a change of pace. For more information. please visit her website, www.jennabennett.com.

My Previous Interview(s) with this Author : August 2012

My Previous Guest Post(s) by this Author : Mysteries and More - November 2012

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Tall, Dark, and Divine | Fortune's Hero

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesdays: Tall, Dark, and Divine | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013 | Blog Tour - Covet Promo Reveal Blast Materials‏

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Find Jenna Bennett :

• Jenna Bennett - Website/Blog
• Twitter #1
• Twitter #2
• Facebook Page
• Goodreads
• Amazon Author Page

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The Giveaways!! :

This giveaway ends December 7, 2013 at midnight.

[Click the book titles to find out info about them or to read my review about them]

• A Smashwords ebook copy of "Picture Perfect" by Ella Fox to two randomly drawn people from Rafflecopter
• An Ebook copy--winner's choice from Jodi Redford's backlist to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Catching the Bad Guy" by Marie Astor to three randomly drawn people from Rafflecopter
• "The North Poe" Christmas Boxed Cards from Jenna Bennett to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• Winner's Choice :: two books (total) from Kristine Cayne and/or Dana Delamar or 10% off any service from By Your Side Self-Publishing from Kristine Cayne & Dana Delamar to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Every Night Forever" by R. E. Butler to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Playing Games" by Jessica Clare to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Indelible" by Bethany Lopez to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Battlescars" by Sophie Monroe to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Drive Me Crazy" by Marquita Valentine to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Desire By Blood" by Melissa Schroeder to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Darkness Awakened" by Katie Reus to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Tour - Idolizing In: Swept Away by Mary Connealy | Review & Giveaway

Today and tomorrow I'm turning my blog over to Mary Connealy, with a review of "Swept Away," which is the 1st book in her Trouble in Texas Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAYs (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from March 11 - 28, 2013 | Giveaway ends on March 27, 2013 | "Swept Away" Author Chat Party is on March 28, 2013]

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- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 301; Kindle Edition - File Size: 653 KB | Expected Release Date: March 1, 2013 | Publisher: Bethany House Publishers | Obtained: Litfuse Publicity Group

"Swept Away" [Trouble in Texas Series, Book 1] by Mary Connealy

My Book Summary : Luciano (Lucas/Luke) has always felt the need to fight for what he believed in. It's why he became a Union soldier during the Civil War even though he was from Texas. Now it's the reason why he's going home to avenge his father's death and take back the family ranch that was stolen from him. On his ride back home he comes across Ruthy (Rosie) floating in a river, saves her, and--because of the proximity of where he pulled her out and his hometown--he brings her home with him.

Ruthy has her own problems, ever since her parents died she has been treated more like a servant then anything else by her neighbors who took her in. Before Luke found her, she and "her family" were driving in a wagon train headed for California and all Ruthy wanted to do was escape. Therefore, when a flash flood took their wagons as they were crossing a river Ruthy felt it was a blessing. Now if she can only keep herself, Luke, and Luke's friends safe from the trouble with Luke's ranch is brewing up then everything will be might fine...

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! This witty, funny, adventurous novel keeps you on your toes with it's no nonsense style group of men, who are as close as brothers, trying to bring law and order to a wayward town. I was very surprised with some of the twists that came up! Also--even though it never happened--am still waiting for one of Ruthy's "family" to show up from the dead just to cause even more trouble. =0)

Luke's friends were wonderful characters! They all have that little something you wish for in your leading men, so I can't wait to see whom they'll be paired up with! In addition, Luke and Ruthy are quite a pair too! They had each other’s back the whole way through this novel, and I LOVED the way Luke tries to romance Ruthy as it made me laugh for that whole section! *heheee*

I recommend this novel to anyone who likes light romances with adventurous cowboys! Also, it is a sweet Christian read as well as being a fun romantic comedy!

Author's Novel Extras : The Missouri River Flood of 2011 | The First Time I've Seen My New Cover Online! | I've been TAGGED by Julie Lessman | SPEEDBO-Firing a Warning Shot Across the Bow | Publisher's Weekly--Great Review of Swept Away | 4 STARS for Swept Away in Romantic Times Magazine! | Library Journal Review of SWEPT AWAY!!! | I'm on Christian Bookshelf & Giveaway of Swept Away | Weekend Edition | FIRST EVER ON P & P GIVEAWAY OF–SWEPT AWAY | Swept Away is SHIPPING NOW!!! | CHANCE TO WIN SWEPT AWAY | YOU SHOULD BE WRITING!!! | CHANCE TO WIN SWEPT AWAY | Welcome Mat Wednesday | Chance to win Swept Away and much more | Swept Away, Baby Calves and the Grand Canyon of Texas | Lane Hill House Reviews Swept Away

Author's Series Extras : Trouble in Texas...A New Series Begins | Weekend Edition | I’m ready for my chance | The Grand Canyon of Texas | That Eureka Moment When a Writer Strikes Gold!

Book Teaser(s) :

She blinked her eyes at him and they were like none he'd ever seen. They seemed to glow with a yellowy-gold light. It reminded him of a mountain lion he'd seen once, a beautiful critter.
"I'm a doctor, ma'am."
"I heard. And I heard my son tell you I'm fine." Glynna Greer's lioness eyes flashed with anger.
A snarling, beautiful critter.
"Go away and don't come back."
A snarling, beautiful critter who looked eager to bite his head off. This woman was more like that lion every minute. ~ within Chapter 3

He needed to do this right. He didn't know much about women, but he'd heard they were notional critters and there was probably a right way to propose. Luke reckoned he hadn't found it so far.
Taking her hand, he tried his very best to be . . . he struggled for the word . . . uh . . . romantic, that was it.
He hadn't practiced this and it was a mistake on his part. Now he had to think and talk at the same time. And Ruthy already looked impatient. ~ within Chapter 15

"I can just drag you into the underbrush and cover your body with leaves. You can nap while we clear these vermin out of Broken Wheel. I'm sure Glynna can defend herself."
It might be best for Luke not to have children with this merciless woman. ~ within Chapter 20

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Mary, then please check out her website.

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About the Author :

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Christy Award Finalist, a Carol Award Finalist and an IRCC Award finalist.

The Lassoed in Texas Series, "Petticoat Ranch," "Calico Canyon" and "Gingham Mountain." "Petticoat Ranch" was a Carol Award Finalist. "Calico Canyon" was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy.

The Montana Marriages Series, "Montana Rose," "The Husband Tree" and "Wildflower Bride." "Montana Rose" was a Carol Award Finalist.

"Cowboy Christmas"—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist.

The Sophie's Daughters series. "Doctor in Petticoats," "Wrangler in Petticoats," "Sharpshooter in Petticoats."

She is also the author of; "Black Hills" Blessing a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances, "Nosy in Nebraska," a 3-in-1 collection of cozy romantic mysteries and she's one of the three authors contributing to "Alaska Brides" with her Carol Award Winning historical romance "Golden Days."

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Giveaways!! :

Mary Connealy is celebrating the release of "Swept Away" by giving away a $250 "Swept Away" Vacation Package and hosting a Facebook Author Chat Party!


One fortunate winner will receive :

• A $250 Visa Cash Card (Get away for the weekend or use it to buy an eReader for a relaxing ‘Staycation’!)
• A copy of "Swept Away" (For you AND a friend!)

To Enter : Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 27th. Winner will be announced at the "Swept Away" Author Chat Party on March 28th. Connect with Mary, get a sneak peek of the next book in the series, 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 "Swept Away" and join Mary on the evening of the March 28th 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 28th!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Litfuse's other Blog Tour Reviews for this novel!!

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Find Mary Connealy :

• Mary Connealy - Website
• Mary Connealy - Blog
• The Seekers - Blog
• Petticoats & Pistols - Blog
• Twitter
• Facebook Page
• Facebook Group
• Pinterest
• Flickr
• Goodreads

Blog Tour - Idolizing In: My Stubborn Heart by Becky Wade | Review & Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Becky Wade, with a review of her debut novel "My Stubborn Heart!!"

ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAYs (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from May 7 - 24, 2012 | Giveaway ends on May 24, 2012 | Becky's Facebook Author Chat Party is on May 24, 2012]

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- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 343; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1172 KB | Expected Release Date: May 2012 | Publisher: Bethany House Publishers | Obtained: LitFuse Publicity Group

"My Stubborn Heart" by Becky Wade

My Book Summary : Ever since Matt's wife died, he couldn't find joy in anything. So, he quit his job of being the star athlete of the NHL's New York Barons and moved back to the town he grew up in knowing that it was the one place where no one would bother him. That lasted quite a few years .... that is until Kate moved into town.

After dealing with some hard times at her job and having a nonexistent love life for so long Kate agrees to take three months off from her everyday life to move into her grandmother's, Beverly, old estate and fix it up with her. However, when she meets Matt, who has been hired to help them renovate the house, she can't help but be drawn to him. Yet after she hears about Matt's past, she knows she doesn't have a chance romantically with him but she still wants to be friends with him. To be friends though means trying to get him to open up, even a little, which will be hard since Matt keeps pushing everyone (friends and family) away.

After a while, it seems like Kate is making progress with Matt and becoming his friend. But as they become closer Kate's heart has other ideas as she starts to fall in love with him. Too bad falling in love can't make everything better when it comes to saving someone. Will Kate's friendship be enough to bring Matt back to his old self? Or will Kate be required to give up more for Matt than she ever planned?

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! I loved the setup of this novel!! The prologue sets up this novel in a way that it fills in what happened, a bit, in the main characters' pasts while leaving you curious to read more about them. Then to read the build-up between Kate and Matt throws you for a loop and back again. When you finally realize what each of them have gone through and how they get into this sweet relationship where they both want more from each other but because of God or their pasts or just life itself makes it so they have to fight for what they want you might just fall in love with this novel too! What also makes this novel is "the seniors!" They are a group of Beverly's friends, who Kate hangs out with too. And boy do they have their own share of antics! =0)

When I read this novel it hooked me and didn't let go, making it so, I read it in one day! Nevertheless, if you get into this novel as much as I did then be sure to have a tissue on hand since I did cry a few times while reading it.

I HIGHLY recommend this novel to anyone who likes contemporary romances!! Also, this is for anyone who enjoys inspirational romance novels!

Author's Novel Extras : Matt’s Character Interview | Kate’s Character Interview | Deleted Scene from "My Stubborn Heart"

Author Book Interview(s) :

Book Teaser(s) :

Yes. It truly was gray. A beautiful gun-metal color, slightly darker near the temples, slightly lighter in a streak over his right eye.
"Morty!" She rinsed the suds out, practically bouncing on the footstool with excitement. "It worked!"
"It did?"
"It did!"
And then, before he'd even had a chance to see it, or form his own opinion about it, he asked, "Do you think Velma will like it?"
"Oh, Morty," Kate replied. "She better." ~ within Chapter 6

What was it with churches and single people? In all spheres of life---work, social, athletic, academic---singles mixed with married people. Not so in Sunday school.
What were the married people studying in their classes, anyway? Top secret marriage info? Racy sex tips? What could possibly be so juicy that it merited separating the married and the single adults into two separate areas of the building? Like the L sign for loser, she sometimes felt like she wore a big S for single on her forehead whenever she set foot on a church campus. ~ within Chapter 12

For more information on this book and/or any other books by Becky, then please check out her website.

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About the Author :

During her childhood in California, Becky frequently produced homemade plays starring her sisters, friends, and cousins. These plays almost always featured a heroine, a prince, and a love story with a happy ending. She's been a fan of all things romantic ever since.

Becky and her husband lived overseas in the Caribbean and Australia before settling in Dallas, Texas. It was during her years abroad that Becky's passion for reading turned into a passion for writing.

She published three historical romances with Avon Books, then put her career on hold for several years to care for her kids, then recently returned to writing sheerly for the love of it. She felt led to move to the genre of contemporary Christian romance and couldn't be more thrilled with it.

These days Becky can be found failing but trying to keep up with her housework, sweating at the gym, carting her kids around town, playing tennis, hunched over her computer, eating chocolate, or collapsed on the sofa watching TV with her husband.

Learn more at: www.BeckyWade.com.

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Giveaways!! :

Celebrate with Becky by entering her "My Stubborn Heart" Giveaway to win a Nook Simple Touch™ with GlowLight™ and connecting with her during the Author Chat Party on May 24!


One fortunate winner will receive :

• A Brand New Nook Simple Touch™ with GlowLight™


• A $25 Barnes & Noble Gift Card


• "My Stubborn Heart" by Becky Wade

To Enter : Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on May 24th. Winner will be announced at the "My Stubborn Heart" Author Chat Facebook Party on May 24. Becky will be hosting an book chat, testing your trivia skills and giving away some great prizes!

So grab your copy of "My Stubborn Heart" and join Becky on the evening of the May 24th for a chance to meet Becky 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 and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning! Hope to see you on the 24th!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out LitFuse's other Blog Tour Stops for this novel!!

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Find Becky Wade :

• Becky Wade - Website
• Facebook
• Goodreads

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings | Review & Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Regina Jennings, with a review of her debut novel "Sixty Acres and a Bride!!"

ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAYs (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from March 6 - 26, 2012 | Giveaway ends on March 26, 2012 | Regina's Facebook Author Chat Party is on March 27, 2012]

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- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 366; Kindle Edition - File Size: 751 KB | Expected Release Date: February 2012 | Publisher: Bethany House Publishers | Obtained: LitFuse Publicity Group

"Sixty Acres and a Bride" by Regina Jennings

My Book Summary : After tragedy struck their family, Rosa and her mother-in-law, (now both widows) leave Mexico and move to Texas to live on their family's ranch. However, life in Texas is very different then what Rosa is used to, so she tries her best to fit in by following what her mother-in-law states as the correct etiquette for a woman, and by working her hardest in helping out in any way she can. Nevertheless, when they get into town they find out that they owe quite a lot of back taxes on their ranch and if they don't pay the fees within the next three months then they'll loose it all. Thankfully, they have family around to help them or they would be completely lost.

One of those family members is Weston, her mother-in-law's nephew, who has had to deal with his own loss and struggles, but still feels responsible for taking care of everyone within his family. Even Rosa. But will their pasts get in the way of the budding friendship/relationship growing between them?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this is a sweet historical romance novel! It’s about a woman who is trying to find her place within the new town she lives in while making sure that her mother-in-law and herself are provided for and a man who is struggling with the tragedy from his past while trying to become the man he once was again. I think Rosa and Weston really worked well as a couple. Nonetheless, I LOVED a majority of the secondary characters, especially Uncle George & Aunt Mary with their motley crew of kids, the cowboys that work for Weston, and Eliza & Jake (Weston's sister and brother-in-law)! With that being said, I guess, I could never decide how I felt about Louise (Rosa's mother-in-law) and Molly (someone who has a crush on Weston and befriends Rosa), they were both good characters who seemed to be looking out for themselves mostly. In spite of this, during the time-period that this novel is set in that's how you had to live, by putting yourself first, so I suppose I can understand why they acted the way they did.

My only problem with this novel was the indecision that Rosa kept having when Weston was involved. I mean I understand her reasoning. However, the way it stretched out and how she didn't believe what he was saying about his own feelings for parts of it, made me a bit mad at her and annoyed with her.

Other then that though, I really enjoyed this novel and hope their will be another novel that involves some of the secondary characters since I truly loved them!!

I recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys inspirational historical romances!!

Author's Novel Extras : Sixty Acres and a Bride Press Release | Q & A with Sixty Acres and a Bride Author Regina Jennings | Meet Rosa and Weston (as well as some other scenes/things from the novel)

Author Book Interview(s) :

Book Teaser(s) :

"Oh yes, Weston told me an amusing story, but I forgot. Where did you meet?" Eliza raised her eyebrows.
Rosa followed Louise's lead and took a seat. "When I went to help Uncle George and Aunt Mary for the sheep shearing."
"Oh, you were the one at the sheep shearing!" Eliza's eyes danced with mischief. "I just wish I could have been there. Sounds like you made quite an impression."
Rosa gasped. He'd told her about the old ewe? ~ within Chapter 10

"It's not out of boredom I do this. It's out of desperation. I still don't think it's going to be enough. Mr. Bradford has been generous, but we're trying to make up for years of debt in one summer. Unless Louise knows something I don't---"
"Speak of the devil."
"What?!" Rosa looked to the gun in alarm. "Who is the devil?"
"Coming over the crossing. See? It's Aunt Louise and Mr. Bradford." He pointed, glad for the opportunity to distract her. ~ within Chapter 15

For more information on this book and/or any other books by Regina, then please check out her website.

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About the Author :

Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She has worked at The Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her husband and four children. Meet Regina here.

Learn more about Regina by visiting her website, www.reginajennings.com.

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Giveaways!! :

Celebrate with Regina by entering to win a Kindle Fire and coming to her Author Chat Party on March 27th!
One fortunate winner will receive :

• A Brand new Kindle Fire


• "Sixty Acres and a Bride" by Regina Jennings

To Enter : Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends March 26, 2012! Winner will be announced at Regina's Author Chat Facebook Party on March 27th. Regina will be hosting an evening of chat, fun trivia and more! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and some beautiful silver jewelry!

So grab your copy of "Sixty Acres and a Bride" and join Regina and friends on the evening of March 27th for an evening of fun.

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP TODAY and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning! Hope to see you on the 27th!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out LitFuse's other Blog Tour Stops for this novel!!

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Find Regina Jennings :

• Regina Jennings
• Blog
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Goodreads
• Purchase your own copy of this novel at Amazon.com