Romance and Love or Everything Else? What Are You Reading This Week?

Release week is over, and I was overwhelmed and so touched by the outpouring of love and support I received for Water So Deep. I cannot tell you all how much it means to me to have all of you jumping in to help raise my new baby book.

But now I feel like I've talked about it nonstop for months, and it's time to talk about something else. Like love and Valentine's Day.

I mean, let's face it. Valentine's Day has become a bit of a commercialized cliche, which is focused more on kids than on adults who are actually in love. I think in a lot of ways it's better this way because then all those people who are unattached can still enjoy the day, seeing little kids sharing their candy and cards. But that still doesn't take away the sting of feeling invisible or forgotten.

That's the beauty of reading, though, I think. I am such a sucker for a good old fashioned romance novel. And not the Nicholas Sparks kid of ending, either. Happy endings. Boy gets the girl or girl gets the boy, or whatever whatever, and the couple falls in love and overcomes all odds and obstacles because in the end they belong together. That is my favorite Valentine's Day reading go-to.

Because kissing. And love. And all things romantic.

(Side note: if you're reading Water So Deep right now, please don't hate me at the end! I promise book two will bring closure!)

This week, I'm reading Joyce DiPastena's The Lady and the Minstrel, Ally Condie's Atlantia, and This Shattered World by Aimee Kaufman and Meagan Spooner. I won't finish all three in a week, because I have a deadline of my own, but still. Those are on my nightstand right now.

What will you be reading this week? And is it romance and love or everything but that? I'm curious.

Treasure Hunt Prize Winner

Before I tell you who won, I want to thank Joyce DiPastena, author of Loyalty's Web and Illuminations of the Heart (both fantastic regency historical romance novels) for organizing the 2010 Summer Treasure Hunt. It's been fun for me.

Haven't entered yet?

You still have time! Click here for more information.

And now the winner of an autographed copy of The Sharp Edge of a Knife is...

Taffy! 


Congratulations, Taffy. I'll be contacting you for your mailing information and get your prize to you this week.

My Day on the Summer Treasure Hunt! Enter to Win.

Okay kids, today is your lucky day. Not only is it Saturday, but you now have a rare chance to win a copy of my book, The Sharp Edge of a Knife.

There is a catch, though.

You don't email the lucky answer to me. You have to send it to Joyce DiPastena, who is in charge of this fantasticly fun treasure hunt. Here are the deets:

PRIZE: The Sharp Edge of a Knife (inspirational historical, based on a true story), autographed copy.

 

QUESTION: What is the correct title of the humorous anthology I coauthored? (Hint: Look in the right hand sidebar)

 

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.nicholegiles.blogspot.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

 

To win all you have to do is visit my site (which you are now doing) and find the answer to today's question, then email it with your name and AND MAILING ADDRES to jdipastena@yahoo.com. (you will not wind up on any mailing lists). DO NOT LEAVE YOUR ANSWER IN THE COMMENTS!

Deadline: Midnight PST

 

The winner will be contacted and announced tomorrow, following the deadline.

All winners will be “drawn” by WWW.RANDOM.ORG.

 

Also, since you're here, feel free (or pressured or bribed) to become a follower. I try to post interesting things regularly. No pressure (or lots--whatever it takes). Good luck!

 

2nd Annual Summer Treasure Hunt: Dig for Clues and Win Contest!

Welcome to our second annual “Summer Treasure Hunt: Dig for Clues and Win” Contest! Last year, some authors put together a month long contest where they gave away a prize a day for the entire month of June. The contest was so successful that they've decided to do it again this year, and invited me to participate. 

 

We have something for everyone: romance, fantasy, mystery, suspense, historicals, contemporaries, young adult and middle grade fiction; children’s picture books; and a variety of non-fiction titles. We also have some exciting non-book prizes: a hand crocheted book tote and cell phone case; a book/jewelry combo; a Mary Kay cosmetic assortment; a The Lion, the Witch, and The Wardrobe DVD; and (you aspiring writers won’t want to miss this one!) a free edit/critique for the first 50 pages of an unpublished novel by a three-time published author!

 

How can you enter to win one of these awesome prizes? Just follow the rules below!

 

SUMMER TREASURE HUNT RULES:

 

You can send in an entry for each day’s prize, or only for those prizes that strike your fancy. The rules are simple:

(1) Go to the website or blog indicated for each day, find the answer to the question for that day, then email the answer with your name and AND MAILING ADDRES to jdipastena@yahoo.com. I promise you will not wind up on any mailing lists. This is only to facilitate the receipt of your prize. All entries will be deleted at the end of the contest.

(2) Please send a separate entry for each day and type the day you are entering in the subject line. (Such as: Summer Treasure Hunt, June 1; Summer Treasure Hunt, June 2, etc).

(3) Deadline for each day: Midnight PST

(4) The winner will be contacted and announced on the day following the deadline.

All winners will be “drawn” by WWW.RANDOM.ORG.

You do not have to wait until the designated day to enter. You can start sending in your entries right now, or begin entering at any point along the way. And check back here each day between June 2nd-July 9th to read the names of the winners.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Joyce DiPastena at jdipastena@yahoo.com.

And now…let the treasure hunt begin!

 

June 1

SPONSOR: Donna Hatch

PRIZE: Queen in Exile, (fantasy romance), autographed by author

QUESTION: The princess must rely upon her magic to save whom? (Hint: Look under “Bookshelf” tab)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.donnahatch.net

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 2

SPONSOR: Laurie Lewis

PRIZE: Awakening Avery (women's fiction), autographed copy

QUESTION: Avery's signal that she isn't handling her husband's death very well comes to her when she tosses what into what? (Hint: Look under “books &reviews, then click on the cover to Awakening Avery and read the first chapter)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.laurielclewis.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 3

SPONSOR: E.A. West

PRIZE: Riley's Mission (PDF: romantic suspense)

QUESTION: Where does Jade sit after she sees Aziz Khadoul? (Hint: Click on “Books” tab, then on “excerpt” link for Riley’s Mission)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://eawest.mcphitty.com

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 4

SPONSOR: Jenna Dawlish

PRIZE: Sprig of Thyme (Victorian romance), autographed copy

QUESTION: What is the name of the hero in Jenna's first novel Love Engineered? (Check out “The Library” tab)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.jennadawlish.com

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES           

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 5

SPONSOR: Rachael Renee Anderson

PRIZE: Divinely Designed (contemporary LDS romantic comedy), autographed copy

QUESTION: What is the title of Rachael's second book, being released in August? (Hint: scroll down to Rachael’s “Goodreads” titles on the right hand sidebar))

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://rachaelreneeanderson.blogspot.com/

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 6

SPONSOR: Linda Kay Garner

PRIZE: Some Secrets Hurt (picturebook), autographed copy.  This picture book is for all ages.  It is simple enough to be understood by a very young child, meaningful enough to appeal to teenagers, informative enough to be helpful to parents, and powerful enough to reach out to a wounded adult.

QUESTION: The only thing worse than finding out that your child is being sexually abused is ____ ____ ____? (Hint: Listen to 5 minute KSL TV interview on the right side of the website or dowload the free Parents’ Guide)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.somesecretshurt.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 7

SPONSOR: Danielle Thorne

PRIZE: (New/Sealed) The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe (Widescreen DVD)

QUESTION: In Danielle Thorne's novel, Turtle Soup, what is the name of the marine biologist who inspires Sara Hart to name her deli Turtle Soup? (Hint: read the blurb for Turtle Soup on Danielle’s website homepage)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.daniellethorne.jimdo.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 8

SPONSOR: Larry Hammersley

PRIZE: Lab Partners (sweet 1950’s romance), ebook

QUESTION: What are the first names of the hero and heroine in the short story Lab Partners? (Hint: Check out “WIP Report” post for April 4, 2010)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://larryhammersley.blogspot.com/

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 9

SPONSOR: Linda Weaver Clarke

PRIZE: Melinda and the Wild West: (historical romance, YA and adult), autographed copy

QUESTION: What was Melinda doing when she first met Gilbert and why did he act flustered and then abruptly turn and briskly stride away? (Hint:. Click on “Sample Chapters” tab, then on the book title for Melinda and the Wild West to read a sample chapter.)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com

OPEN TO USA AND CANADA ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 10

SPONSOR: Angela Morrison

PRIZE: Taken by Storm (Penguin/Razorbill 2009), YA romance, autographed hard cover

QUESTION: A legendary LDS author of over 30 books for teens called Taken by Storm, "An amazing story written with a clear, refreshing and creative voice." Who was it? (Hint: check “Taken By Storm” tab)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.angela-morrison.com

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 11

SPONSOR: Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen

PRIZE: Trapped (romantic suspense with a hint of paranormal fantasy), autographed copy

QUESTION: The first trap Emi Warrin encounters is a mysterious letter. To where does it lure her? (Hint: Read the book summary under the Trapped tab)

WEBSITE/BLOG: rondahinrichsen.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 12

SPONSOR: Anne Patrick

PRIZE: Journey to Redemption (inspirational romantic suspense), free download

QUESTION: What did Royce use to do for a living in my upcoming release, Out of the Darkness? (Hint: Look under the “My Books” link for Anne’s new release, Out of the Darkness)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.suspensebyanne.blogspot.com/ 

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 13

SPONSOR: Rebecca Talley

PRIZE: Altared Plans (contemporary LDS romance), autographed by author

QUESTION: What is unique about my youngest son? (Hint: Watch the YouTube video Extra C posted on the right side of Rebecca’s blog)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.rebeccatalleywrites.blogspot.com 

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 14

SPONSOR: David J. West

PRIZE: Heroes of the Fallen (historical fiction), autographed hardcopy)

QUESTION: What is the name of my favorite author? (Hint: Scroll through David’s June blogs. He promises you’ll find the answer!)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://david-j-west.blogspot.com/

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 15

SPONSOR: Jennifer Stewart Griffith, author of Choosing Mr. Right and Delicious Conversation

PRIZE: FREE edit and/or critique of first 50 pages of a novel

QUESTION: What is the Japanese word for the hairstyle worn by sumo wrestlers? (Hint: Check out Jennifer’s favorite sumo blog, Sumo Beautiful. Look for Hama Bijin’s April 13^th post)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://sumobeautiful.blogspot.com/ 

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES as long as the manuscript can be emailed to Jennifer and is in English

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

 

June 16

SPONSOR: Rebecca Irvine

PRIZE: Family Home Evening Adventures (non-fiction book of FHE lessons), free e-book on CD

QUESTION: What is the title of the first book written by Rebecca Irvine? (Hint: Read “about me” on Rebecca’s blog)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.rebeccairvine.blogspot.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 17

SPONSOR: Marilyn Bunderson

PRIZE: The Mark (YA Fiction), autographed copy with a bookmark

QUESTION: In a deleted scene from my book, The Mark, Jon loses a bet to Shae. What does he have to do to pay up? (Hint: Found in post titled "Deleted Scenes From The Mark" dated April 15, 2010)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.mrbunderson.blogspot.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 18

SPONSOR: Heather Justesen

PRIZE: Winner’s Choice: The Ball’s In Her Court (contemporary inspirational) or Rebound (contemporary romance), autographed by author

QUESTION: How much did the FBI agent expect John's bail to be set at? (Hint: Click on "My Books" tab, then "read more" about Rebound.)

WEBSITE/BLOG: HeatherJustesen.com

OPEN TO USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 19

SPONSOR: Nichole Giles

PRIZE: The Sharp Edge of a Knife (inspirational historical, based on a true story), autographed copy

QUESTION: What is the correct title of the humorous anthology I coauthored? (Hint: Look in the right hand sidebar)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.nicholegiles.blogspot.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 20

SPONSOR: Karen Adair

PRIZE: Trendy blue/brown crocheted book tote with matching cell phone case (Check out Karen’s “Diva Strings” website for examples: http://www.divastrings.com/index.html)

QUESTION: Where did Karen learn how to type and what speed did she finally top out at? (Hint: Check Karen’s “Bio” tab)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.kbadair.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 21

SPONSOR: Lynn Parsons

PRIZE: (dis)Abilities and the Gospel (nonfiction), autographed copy

QUESTION: What are three of the topics I list on the parent page of my website? (Look on “Parent Page” tab)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.lynndparsons.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 22

SPONSOR: Kinzie Monroe

PRIZE: Reservations for Two (inspirational romance), autographed CD

QUESTION: What was Maggie doing when she and Carson first met in Reservations for Two? (Hint: click on the “Excerpts” link on Kinzie’s blog)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://kinziemonroe.blogspot.com/

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 23

SPONSOR: Michele Ashman Bell

PRIZE: Summer in Paris (YA romance), autographed copy and Eiffel Tower bookmark

QUESTION: What is Michele "dreaming of"? (Hint: found on sidebar above picture of Eiffel Tower

WEBSITE/BLOG: micheleabell.blogspot.com

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 24

SPONSOR: Jaimey Grant and JaysDesign Jewelry

PRIZE: A signed copy of Redemption, a Regency romance by Jaimey Grant, and a 19" hand-knotted strand of freshwater pearls ($45 value) handmade by Jay T Lyons of JaysDesign Jewelry.

QUESTION: Artist Jay T Lyons did a sketch for the cover of an upcoming Regency romance of mine. What is the sketch of and what is the title of the upcoming book?

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://sites.google.com/site/jaimeygrant/jaytlyons

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 25

SPONSOR: Christine Thackeray

PRIZE: Lipstick Wars (LDS Women’s Fiction), autographed copy

QUESTION: What is the name of the angel who needs a vacation in my recent pamphlet, “Could You Be an Angel Today? (Hint: Play the book trailer for “Could You Be an Angel Today” on Christine’s home page)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.christinethackeray.com

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 26

SPONSOR: Bonnie Harris

PRIZE: Mary Kay Satin Lips Set, Travel Size Satin Hands Set and a set of mineral eye colors

QUESTION: What is the name of my African Gray and African Desert Tortosie? (Hint: Read “About Me” in the left hand sidebar)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.bonnieharris.blogspot.com/

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 27

SPONSOR: Teralee Deighton

PRIZE: Cup of Comfort for New Mothers (personal essay anthology)

QUESTION: Name  the editor of Cup of Comfort for New Mothers

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.adamsmediastore.com/category/cup-of-comfort-series?r=COC_Bookstore           

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 28

SPONSOR: C. LaRene Hall

PRIZE: Martha’s Freedom Train (middle grade historical), autographed by both author and illustrator

QUESTION: How many short stories has C. LaRene Hall published in the humorous anthology, Mormon Mishaps and Mischief? (Hint: Look in the left hand sidebar)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.clhall.blogspot.com/

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 29

SPONSOR: Sarah M. Eden

PRIZE: Courting Miss Lancaster (Regency romance), autographed copy

QUESTION: In his "I Need Friends Friday" interview, what reason does Edward Cullen give for not sleeping at night?

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.sarahmeden.com/2009/11/i-need-friends-friday-edward-cullen.html

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

June 30

SPONSOR: Marcia Mickelson

PRIZE: Reasonable Doubt (LDS Suspense), autographed copy

QUESTION: In what country was author, Marcia Mickelson born? (Hint: Click on “About Marcia” tab)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.marciamickelson.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

July 1

SPONSOR: Kimberly Job

PRIZE: I'll Know You by Heart (romantic suspense), autographed copy

QUESTION: What is the title of my current work in progress? (Hint: Look under “My Books” tab)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.scribbledscraps.blogspot.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

July 2

SPONSOR: Joan Sowards

PRIZE: Haunts Haven (an LDS ghost story), autographed copy

QUESTION: What is the name of the town in which the story of Haunts Haven takes place? (Hint: Found on sidebar synopsis of story)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://joansowards.blogspot.com/

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

July 3

SPONSOR: Margaret L. Turley RN

PRIZE: Save the Child (Reality Fiction), autographed copy

QUESTION: Where can you listen to an audio interview with Margaret L. Turley about her book, Save the Child? (Hint: Click on link at the bottom of Margaret’s bio on her “About the Author” page)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://margaretturley.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

July 4

SPONSOR: Joyce DiPastena

PRIZE: Illuminations of the Heart (sweet medieval romance, a 2009 Whitney Award Finalist), autographed by author

QUESTION: Who were gifts usually given to on Epiphany during the Middle Ages? (Hint: Click on “Stolen Christmas” tab and read excerpt from “An Epiphany Gift for Robin”)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.joyce-dipastena.com/

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES:

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

July 5

SPONSOR: Cindy R. Williams

PRIZE: Chase McKay Didn’t Get Up Today (Arizona Glyph Award Finalist and Southwest Book Awards Finalist), a snuggle, giggle children’s picture book

QUESTION: There is a picture of Cindy holding two dragons on her website, www.cindyrwilliams.com.  The names of the dragons are in the caption below the picture. What are their names? (Hint: Look on the “Book” page)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.cindyrwilliams.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

July 6

SPONSOR: Gail Pallotta

PRIZE: Love Turns the Tide (inspirational romance with suspense), free e-book on CD

QUESTION: Who comes to Cammie O'Shea's rescue after she has a break-in at her unit in Destin, Florida? (Hint: Scroll down to: MORE ABOUT THE BOOK)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.gailpallotta.com

OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

July 7

SPONSOR: Danyelle Ferguson

PRIZE: (dis)Abilities and the Gospel (non-fiction), autographed copy (Yes, this is your second chance to win a copy, this one signed by the co-author)

QUESTION: Danyelle is going on her first book tour this summer (July to August). Name three of the cities where she'll be signing books. (Hint: Check out Danyelle’s May 10, 2010 post)

WEBSITE/BLOG: www.QueenOfTheClan.com

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

 

July 8

SPONSOR: Karen E. Hoover

PRIZE: Sapphire Flute (YA Fantasy), autographed copy

QUESTION: How many bloggers have posted their reviews of The Sapphire Flute? (Hint: Check out the list under “Sapphire Flute Blog Tour” in the right hand side bar and count ‘em up)

WEBSITE/BLOG: http://karen-hoover.blogspot.com/

USA ENTRIES ONLY

WINNER:

ANSWER:

Silver Lining, Whitneys, and an Author Spotlight

Okay, first of all, my good friend Carolyn gave me a fabulous bloggy award several weeks ago, and somehow, I’ve neglected to acknowledge this fact and pass the award on to other bloggers. I plan to rectify that right now.

See this? It’s my award. It’s beautiful for several reasons, but mostly because it is one of those positive-type awards. It has nothing to do with the appearance of my blog, or how popular I am, but more about how my positive words affect others. To me, that’s something that really matters.

So, thanks Carolyn! I love it. And because of that, I’m going to pass it on to five other bloggers who have in some way helped me find a silver lining when I needed one.

1.      Ali Cross, who faces down adversity with grace and class.

2.      Christine Bryant, who has pushed forward through odds I can’t even fathom.

3.      Jodi Brown, my cousin who is the ultimate survivor. I could only hope to have a fraction of the grace with which you have accepted your circumstances.

4.      L.T. Eliott, who always, always comes through with a positive word and a hug whenever I blog, or see her in person.

5.      Keith Fisher, who always comes through for me, even when others forget. You rock.

Speaking of awards, we’re heading into April, and with the beginning of spring comes conference season and the Whitney Awards. This is definitely one of my favorite times of year. Not only do I get to hang with all my favorite writing peeps, but I get to attend a classy shindig and wear a fabulous dress while people I love and respect are recognized for their exceptional writing abilities.

And I have to say, simply being nominated for this prestigious award is quite an honor. This year, the list of finalists is crammed with awesomesauce. One of those nominees is my good friend, Joyce DiPastena. Joyce’s book, Illuminations of the Heart is a fantastic regional romance that will make your heart sigh while your stomach clutches with suspense. I adore regency era romance, but it’s so hard to find these without gratuitous love scenes. Joyce has managed to give her characters the honor of not only overcoming the odds of marriage laws and customs, but they’re able to do so while retaining their virtue.

And I simply love her style!  Check out the blurb:

“Clothilde.”

He spoke the name on a breath like a prayer. Then he lowered his head and kissed her.

Her heart is lost in that first embrace, her world shaken to its foundations. There is just one problem: her name is not Clothilde. It is Siriol de Calendri.

Trained in the art of illumination in the far-off city of Venice, Siri is directed by her late brother’s will to the county of Poitou in France, where she enters the guardianship of her brother’s friend, Sir Triston de Brielle. Once in Poitou, Siri hopes to find employment in an illuminator’s shop—until Triston unexpectedly snatches her heart away with a kiss.

Triston is a man of quiet honor and courage, but the guilt he carries for the death of his late wife, Clothilde, has left him numb and hesitant to love again. Worse yet, Siri bears an uncanny resemblance to his lost love. Or does she? Her merry laughter and twinkling eyes are very different from his late wife’s shy smiles and quiet ways. Yet when he gazes into Siri’s face, all he sees is Clothilde.

Then Triston’s past returns to threaten them both. Will his tragic life with Clothilde be repeated with Siri? Trapped between the rivalry of the king’s sons on the one hand and a neighbor out for vengeance on the other, Triston realizes it would be safer to send Siri away. But how can he bear to lose her again?

Siri is determined not to be cast off and not to live in another woman’s shadow. She has illuminated many a priceless book with pen and paint. But can her own vibrant spirit illuminate the darkness in Triston’s soul and make his heart beat for her alone?

I loved this book, but have to tell you that if you’re going to read this book, you really first ought to read Joyce’s first book, Loyalty’s Web, which involves some of the same characters. Well, okay, not Siri, but Tristan. They’re both fantastic. You can read my review of Loyalty’s Web here and Illuminations of the Heart here. Joyce, good luck at the Whitneys!

Illuminations of the Heart is available in Deseret Bookstores and some Arizona Barnes & Nobles. It can be ordered directly through Barnes & Noble and Borders bookstores, or ordered online at DeseretBook.com (http://deseretbook.com) Amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com), BarnesandNoble.com (http://www.barnesandnoble.com), and Borders.com (http://www.borders.com).

Awesome Places to Win Free Stuff

Okay, people, this must be the week for awesome giveaways, because right after I announced my own contest, I started getting announcements for a bunch of others. There is some seriously cool stuff being given away this week--so I just have to share with you all. Consider it a benefit of reading my blog.

First, though, in my previous post, I announced the two winners of "Saving Madeline" by Rachel Ann Nunes, but I did not announce the winners of the multiple drawings for Joyce DiPastena's "Illuminations of the Heart." Those winners have been chosen and they are:

Jennifer B. won the autographed copy of "Illuminations of the Heart."

Park Avenue Princess won the $10 Amazon.com gift certificate.

Elizabeth Morgan won the $10 Deseret book gift certificate.

Congratulations to all the winners!

Okay, so now here's where you can go to win cool stuff:

Rachelle Christensen is giving away a Ribbon Box or ScrapMaBob on her blog, and all entrants will be entered into another drawing to win a Scrapbox, valued at $1,200. This thing is huge and way cool, people, so run over and sign up, fast!

Next cool giveaway is over at Cindy Beck's blog. She's giving away two books--and you can enter to win either or both by just leaving a comment. (Hint to you writers--one's a writing book.)

Anne Bradshaw is giving away a historical novel set in the pioneer era, by renouned LDS author, Shirley Bahlman. Ann always has great giveaways, so if you check back at her blog, you have a chance to win something every week.

And then, if you want to win a copy of Zion's Promise: Amidst War's Alarms, by Chris Jefferies, scroll down and sign up for my giveaway. Instructions are in the post just below this one.

So there you have it. Your chance to win lots of awesome prizes. Keep checking back--I have more things to give away in the upcoming months.

Also, don't forget--The Mazerunner is being released on October 6th. Make sure to grab a copy. Unless you've already pre-ordered it, in which case you can just plan to grab a copy for someone else.

In other news: Did I mention that my denial of summer might be coming to an end this week? Yeah, the weather man is predicting some serious cold temperatures in two days--which makes me feel a keen sense of loss. Put away the swimsuits, break out the sweatshirts. Whaaaaaaa.

Don't worry. I'll get over it. I suppose it's time to break out the Halloween decorations as well, considering it's practically October already. Sheesh. Guess I ought to figure out how to get my enormous pumpkins from my backyard garden up onto my front porch. Maybe I'll roll them...


Nichole

What's playing in my head today? Shooting Star by Poison.

Book Review: "Illuminations of the Heart" by Joyce DiPastena and a Contest

By Nichole Giles

Hello my loyal and faithful friends and readers. It's true, I've been doing a whole bunch of media reviews lately. And I sure hope you aren't getting sick of them. It's just that when I find a book or CD or movie that I just love, I can't help but want to share it with the rest of the world. So, I hope you'll indulge me once more. This one is definitely worth the read!!

Back Cover Blurb:

“Clothilde.” He spoke the name on a breath like a prayer. Then he lowered his head and kissed her.

Her heart is lost in that first embrace, her world shaken to its foundations. There is just one problem: her name is not Clothilde. It is Siriol De Calendri. Trained in the art of illumination in the far-off city of Venice, Siri is directed by her late brother’s will to the county of Poitou in France, where she enters the guardianship of her brother’s friend, Sir Triston de Brielle. Once in Poitou, Siri hopes to find employment in an illuminator’s shop—until Triston unexpectedly snatches her heart away with a kiss.

Triston is a man of quiet honor and courage, but the guilt he carries for the death of his late wife, Clothilde, has left him numb and hesitant to love again. Worse yet, Siri bears an uncanny resemblance to his lost love. Or does she? Her merry laughter and twinkling eyes are very different from his late wife’s shy smiles and quiet ways. Yet when he gazes into Siri’s face, all he sees is Clothilde.

Then Triston’s past returns to threaten them both. Will his tragic life with Clothilde be repeated with Siri? Trapped between the rivalry of the king’s sons on the one hand and a neighbor out for vengeance on the other, Triston realizes it would be safer to send Siri away. But how can he bear to lose her again?

Siri is determined not to be cast off and not to live in another woman’s shadow. She has illuminated many a priceless book with pen and paint. But can her own vibrant spirit illuminate the darkness in Triston’s soul and make his heart beat for her alone?

My Take:

Once again, Joyce DiPastena has outdone herself. I absolutely loved her first book, Loyalty’s Web, and wondered how she would ever write another one with so much depth, so many plot twists and turns, and let’s not forget the heart-melting love story (the kind that doesn’t make you cringe). But how could I have thought such a thing? Of course, Illuminations was up to par! I absolutely loved it.

Okay, first I have to warn you. I’m a sucker for a good romance. Really. But I’m also extremely picky about what I read, especially since I started writing myself. Other than Loyalty’s Web, it’s been quite a while since I found a sweet romance that I just couldn’t put down. But this one was definitely packed full of heart-pounding romance. The downside is that I’m going to have to wait for probably a year or more to read another book by Joyce. (Frown. That’s a long time!) The point is, Illuminations of the Heart has sealed the deal. I’m a fan for life!

My Nitpicks:

I have issues with this section of my reviews. There are those who think a nitpick section is uncalled for or unnecessary. And in most cases, that’s probably true. However, I feel that it’s important for my readers to understand that I will be honest in my review process, and if I end up reviewing a book I wasn’t fond of, that I’ll kindly let them know that, while pointing out the things I did like.

That said, I have a really hard time finding anything to nitpick in this book. Seriously! Oh wait. I got one. (Joyce, we already had this discussion.) After reading Loyalty’s Web, I’d grown very fond of all the characters—except Clothilde and Helen’s extremely EVIL mother—and so was sad to discover Clothilde’s death in Illuminations. Seriously, every time Triston thought of her, I got sad too. So, I guess my nitpick is that I got teary in several places, which can be embarrassing when you’re sitting in the orthodontist’s office waiting for your kids, or waiting in line to meet teachers at the school or something. But worry not. I grew to love Siri as well, and found the ending very satisfying.

So now I’m left wondering who’s story Joyce will tell next. Maybe Acelet's? Or Ettienne's? Hm. Only Joyce herself knows the answer to that question. The rest of us will just have to be patient.

I give Illuminations of the Heart a five on my diamond scale, and recommend that you run out and grab a copy as fast as you can so you can start reading it too.

Wait, running out would require leaving the computer. I’ll make it easier. Click here to order yours from Deseret Book or here to order from Amazon.

Oh, but that’s not all! Leave a comment here and be entered to win an autographed copy of Illuminations of the Heart or one of three gift cards. The best part is that this tour goes until September 15th, and you can leave comments on as many tour stops as you want, and each one counts as a new entry. (Tip: I’ve posted this blog in two places—comment on both for two entries.) Good luck! I belive the winners will be announced on Joyce's blog at the end of the blog tour, but I'll probably post the names here as well.

Being the sweet lady that she is, Joyce was kind enough to take some time out of her busy life to chat with me about the things that really matter in the life of an author.

NG: Hi Joyce! I know you’re super busy, so I’ll get right to the most important questions. What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? Today, my new favorite is Ben and Jerry’s Key Lime Pie.

JDP: My favorite is Coldstone Creamery French vanilla with chocolate chips and roasted almonds. I guess you could say that chocolate chip is my favorite, but I LOVE being able to add nuts, which you can never find in a store brand chocolate chip.

NG: Awesome. That does sound yummy. And not just any nuts, roasted almonds. Mmm. Almost makes me wish we’d met in an ice cream shop for this interview. But hey, we can always pretend.

(Pauses to dream about ice cream.)

NG: Who is your favorite author? (Besides yourself or me, since everyone already knows we’re both awesome.)

JDP: Georgette Heyer, who wrote Regency romances, and Diana Wynne Jones, who writes fantasies, and I'm not even a fantasy reader in general, so you KNOW how much I must find DWJ awesome! Of course, that doesn't mean that all of either GH or DWJ's titles are as awesome as others. It's a good thing we're going to break that trend, and write NOTHING but awesome books ourselves, NG!

NG: You bet, Joyce! Trend-breaking is at the top of my priority list. Personally, I prefer to set my own trends and make my own fun. Speaking of fun, what is your most favorite thing to do when you’re not writing?

JDP: I spend way too much time on email and the internet. I don't know if that's because it's a "favorite" thing to do, or if I'm just cyberspace addicted. (Probably the latter.)

NG: Tee Hee. Aren’t we all? Wait, that was supposed to be redundant. I have a better question. If you were an animal, what kind would you be and why?

JDP: Ooo, that one's easy. I would be a cat. I've loved cats for as long as I can remember, and am quite sure I would have been born with a cat in my arms if my mom hadn't (presumably) vetoed that idea. I remember taking "cat lessons" from my grandparents cat when I was a very little girl. Besides, what's not to love about eating and sleeping all day in all the best places in the house?

NG: That does sound nice.

Pauses to dream about naps and snack foods.

NG: Speaking of eating, how about telling us what kinds of power snacks keep you going as you write.

JDP: When I'm being bad, a handful of Hershey Kisses. When I'm being good, a stick of string cheese.

NG: Chocolate and cheese? That pretty much covers the important food groups. One last question and then I’ll let you get back to your next masterpiece. Do you prefer diamonds or pearls?

JDP: Pearls. Don't know why, I just do.

NG: Because you’re classic and feminine. Your choice is unusual, which speaks of your character. Jewelry choice says a lot about a person. But I digress. Joyce, I know you’re super busy, so I’ll let you get back to work. Thank you so much for the visit, and the answers to what makes an author tick.

To read more about the author, click here or here.

Joyce DiPastena will be touring many Costco locations in Arizona. Watch her blog or website for dates and locations.

Watch For It!

by Nichole Giles

Just a quick note to let everyone in on a secret. This coming monday, August 10th, is the beginning of the blog tour for "Illuminations of the Heart" by Joyce DiPastena. This tour goes through September 18th, so be sure to check out some of the participating reviews (especially mine, on September 3rd.)

Now, here's the coolest part. This tour includes an ongoing contest. All you have to do is leave a comment on one or more of the participating blogs. You can enter as many times as you want, and at the end of the tour, the winner gets an autographed copy of "Illuminations of the Heart."

Stop by to learn more about the book, and the author!

August 10
Mormon Hermit Mom's
Book Habit
August 11
Amesbury Reads
August 12
Heather Justesen
August 13
Rachelle's Writing Spot
August 14
Cami's Books and Fit Mommas
August 17
Jewel's World
August 18
Of Writerly Things
August 19
Frespa Fan
August 20
Of Good Report
August 21
Rachel Rager
August 24
Boojoos and Aprilcots
August 25
Musings from an LDS Writing Mom
August 26
Queen of the Clan
August 27
Write Bravely
August 28
Dreams of Quill and Ink
August 31
*Trisit Pinkston
September 1
Vicissitudes
September 2
Tangeled Words and Dreams
September 3
Random-ish by Nichole and LDS Writer's Blogck

September 4
SeriouslyŠ and latterdayauthors
September 7
Lu Ann's Book Review
September 9
Reading for Sanity
September 10
Taffy's Candy
September 11
The Write
Blocks
September 14
Why Not? Because I Said
So! and LDSWomensBookReview
September 15
Ink Splasher
September 16
Reviews by Jaimey
September 17
Blog the Day Away
September 18
Walnut Springs Press

See you all soon!

Nichole

Book Review: "Loyalty's Web" by Joyce DiPastena

By Nichole Giles

Blurb from the back of Loyalty's Web by Joyce Dipastena:

In twelfth century France, King Henry II of England has just finished quashing a rebellion by his power-hungry sons and now seeks to tame the lawless barons who supported them in this corner of his "Angevin empire." To this end, the king has sent the Earl of Gunthar as his royal representative to ensure that Prince Richard and his former cohorts faithfully adhere to the terms of the peace treaty.

Far from being welcomed with open arms, Gunthar no sooner steps foot in the county of Poitou than he is greeted by a series of assassination attempts. All appear to be linked to the former rebellious prince through the agents of the family and friends of young Heléne de Laurant. A clever, intrepid young woman, she realizes that the only way to prove her loved ones’ innocence is by exposing the true assassin. Heléne races against time—and dark secrets of the past—to unmask the killer before the kingdom plunges back into war.

Fierce determination gives way to mutual attraction as Heléne and Gunthar spar over the identity of the traitor. But their blinding magnetism almost causes them to overlook an even deadlier threat from an entirely unexpected direction.

I have to be honest. I’ve been interested in reading this book since it was published. But for one reason or another, never got my hands on a copy. Then it was a Whitney Award finalist—and I wanted to read it worse. Still, it took me until this month to finally get a copy, and as soon as it came, I ripped open the package and started reading. (Even though I was in the middle of reading another book.)

Being a big fan of romance, and harboring a deep love of stories set in regency periods, I’ve read several books from this and similar time periods. However, it’s been a long time since I read one. Truth be told, I’ve never found one that didn’t make me blush at least twice, and cringe at least five times. Until now.

Loyalty’s Web is definitely as romantic as anything I’ve read—full of emotion and intrigue—and because the author chose to leave out those lurid scenes, I found the romance more invigorating and real. Definite thumbs up for that.

The plot twists led me in so many different directions, that even when I thought I knew who was behind the assassination attempts, I ended up being wrong (unusual for me). I did figure out one of the sub-plots near the beginning of the book, but found myself questioning the details behind it as I read.

In the end, I stayed up late for two nights in a row, and even made myself late to an appointment because I just had to see what happened next. This is definitely a book I’ll read over and over again.

I adore Joyce’s writing style—it’s clean, easy to read, and her voice draws you into the story in such a way that you are unable to put the thing down. Also, I loved learning more about the time period and the brutality and customs that were considered normal.

If I were to pick one thing that disappointed me—and here I have to be completely nitpicky, because there wasn’t really much—I’d say I wanted (because I’m selfish) another chapter, or at least another scene, to more firmly wrap up the conclusion. However, I was absolutely satisfied with the end, and am anxiously awaiting the next work by Joyce, Illuminations of the Heart, which I understand (and hope) is a sequel to Loyalty’s Web.

On a final note, there was one character in this story that I thoroughly despised—which, I believe, was intentional on the author’s part. Helen’s wicked, evil mother deserved to be hanged! Or worse. You want to know why? Sorry, you’ll have to read the book. Loyalty’s Web gets five out of five diamonds on my rating system.

To get your copy of Loyalty’s Web click here.

To pre-order your copy of Illuminations of the Heart click here.

To learn more about the works of the author, Joyce DiPastena, click here.