Reviewer Appreciation Giveaway!

Yes, I know. This is WAY, WAY, WAY overdue.

I mean, I've been talking about doing a reviewer appreciation giveaway since April. But if you've been reading this blog over the last few months, well, you know that things got a bit crazy around here, and, well. My prizes kinda-sorta disappeared into a moving box for a little while.

But fear not. They have been found! And the giveaway is here and officially starts TODAY!!!

Take a look at these fab prizes:

In honor of Water So Deep, this fabulous Bella Del Mar Mother of Pearl jewelry set is beaded with tiny white pearls, and accented with clear crystal quartz. This set comes in a beautiful display box and includes a gorgeous necklace, bracelet, and earrings, and is a $95 value. (The crystals look slightly blue in this picture, but they are really mostly clear.)

Also in honor of Water So Deep, this stylish and trendy Refuse to Sink bracelet, still attached to the manufacturer packaging.

In honor of Descendant and Birthright, this lovely crystal quartz healing crystal necklace was custom made by Zuniga's Custom Jewelry. (She makes some of my very favorite original pieces.) Also in packaging.

To enter, all you have to do is leave a review of one of my books on your favorite review site (there are tons of choices) and then come back here and leave the link in the Rafflecopter link box. IF YOU HAVE ALREADY LEFT A REVIEW, it's okay. This contest is MEANT for YOU! Go ahead and leave me the link to your already posted review and you do not need to do anything more.

You will see that there are lots of places where reviews can be left for each of my books. In case you're wondering, YES, it is totally okay to copy and paste one review to ALL THE PLACES if you so choose. As long as you remember to collect the link and enter it into the Rafflecopter box, it totally counts.

This contest closes on June 30, so be sure to enter before then.

*Winners will be notified by email ir FB private message (depending on the information included through Rafflecopter) and will have 72 hours to respond with a U.S. mailing address. If you are out of the United States, you are still eligible to win the bracelet or healing crystal, but not the larger set. Prizes may be adjusted as necessary for this purpose. 

**United States prizewinners may be given the option to trade their jewelry prize for a paperback or ebook copy of any of my books. International prizewinners wishing to exchange their prize will be given the option for an ebook.

Also, while you're entering contests, don't forget to scroll to the post below this one and follow the link to the other fabulous contest for the Magic of Solstice Fantasy Writers' tour I'm participating in this month.

Good luck to all of you, and THANK YOU SO MUCH for your fabulous support. I couldn't do what I do without all of you.



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Something About Courage and Tons of Giveaways

Last weekend, while in downtown Corpus Christi, we came across this little beauty.

It’s a real ship, yo. Actually, it’s an exact replica of Christopher Columbus’s ship, the Nina. (The Pinta and the Santa Maria are in dry dock at a nearby museum.) Check out how freakishly small this baby is. Or was.

The sad thing is I don’t remember how many people actually crewed this ship, but seriously, I don’t know where the people actually fit. So I stood there, staring at it, and wondering how the heck they sailed halfway across the world in it, and thinking about courage. These guys. They had no radios. No GPS or electronic anything to tell them they were sailing in the right direction. They didn’t even have engines. Their entire journey was dependent on wind.

And they sailed from Spain to America in this TINY, TINY ship.

I’m sorry, but those guys—serious, HUGE courage. HUGE.

I talk about doing hard things sometimes. About how tough the publishing industry has become, and how taking chances (in all aspects of life) is tricky and hard and freakishly scary. But guys, this tiny ship really gave me some perspective. I will never have to pack up my whole life and family and travel into the scariest unknown on a rickety little ship with no radio to call for help if we happen upon a kraken or something.

Kinda made the scary things in my life feel a little less scary.

What about you? What scary thing have you put in perspective recently? And how did you find courage?

Oh, and BTW, next week, WAY fun promotions happening:

Starting Monday, DESCENDANT will be on a very special promotion. From June 2-6, you can download it on Amazon for FREE. That’s right, free. (I am not an author who believes in giving away my art for free, so this is something that is unlikely to happen again soon—if ever.)

Also, I’m giving away three print copies of BIRTHRIGHT on Goodreads, and three digital copies here on the blog (check back here Monday for the Rafflecopter form). No purchase necessary, but I’d love a little help spreading the word, if you will.

At the same time, I’m running a Review Blast for BIRTHRIGHT, because that poor baby book needs a little love. So if you’ve read it (or if you read fast) be sure to leave a review, and then go here to enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card.

So yeah. Next week, be prepared. I will be all over the internet promoting. I hope you’ll forgive me. I promise, by the 7 or 8^th, I’ll be done for a bit. 

BIRTHRIGHT REVIEW BLAST GIVEAWAY!

Guys. I'm having so much fun putting together some fun summer promotions. But I need your help. BIRTHRIGHT needs reviews to help gain momentum in the market. So, as a little incentive / reminder, I'm going to giveaway a $25 Amazon gift card to one lucky reviewer.

Everyone who has read BIRTHRIGHT is eligible. To enter, all you have to do is post a fair and honest review on Amazon, Goodreads, and/or your blog, then come back here and leave the review link on this quick and easy entry form.

Contest is open until midnight (central time) June 8th, 2014. Winner will be notified via email, and will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen. THAT'S IT!

Good luck and THANK YOU!

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Release Day: ELEVATED by Elana Johnson (and a surprise contest!)

Guys. It's been a very long time since I was so excited about a book. But this one? FIVE STARS. Or diamonds. Or thumbs up. Or whatever you use to rate books. Seriously. 

Here's the scoop. ELEVATED is written all in verse (aka poetry), which doesn't sound all that appealing necessarily, until you open the cover and read the first page. And then the second page. Before you know it, you arrive at the last page and it's three hours later and you missed going to the gym and picking up your kids from school and taking them to sports practice or dance class or whatever and it's past dinner time and you didn't even know it because you were lost in this beautiful story. Really. 

I absolutely loved Elly, and finding out why she clearly loves Trav, but doesn't want to talk to him. I love the emotional impact that hits again and again with each event that leads to the one fateful day when they end up stuck together in an elevator with their secrets and their heartache. I love how it's written. I love the voice. I love the characters. I love how real the world and the conflicts feel. But mostly, I love that Elana has managed to cram SO MUCH story into so few words. If you've never read a book in verse, read this one. You'll be converted. If you've read one and didn't like it, read this one. You'll change your mind. 

By the way, this cover is a tiny bit different from the one that was revealed in January. I like this one better. It rocks! 

Check it out!

About ELEVATED: The last person seventeen-year-old Eleanor Livingston wants to see on the elevator—let alone get stuck with—is her ex-boyfriend Travis, the guy she's been avoiding for five months.

Plagued with the belief that when she speaks the truth, bad things happen, Elly hasn’t told Trav anything. Not why she broke up with him and cut off all contact. Not what happened the day her father returned from his deployment to Afghanistan. And certainly not that she misses him and still thinks about him everyday.

But with nowhere to hide and Travis so close it hurts, Elly’s worried she won’t be able to contain her secrets for long. She’s terrified of finally revealing the truth, because she can’t bear to watch a tragedy befall the boy she still loves.

Buy Links:

Amazon 

Barnes & Noble

Kobo

iTunes

On Goodreads

Praise for ELEVATED:

"ELEVATED will take you on an emotionally gripping journey through the highs and lows of first love."

~Carolee Dean, author of Take Me There and Forget Me Not

"Poignant, raw, and intense, ELEVATED is a novel that will grip your heart and linger in your mind long after you turn the last page."

~Stasia Ward Kehoe, author of Audition and The Sound of Letting Go

About Elana Johnson: Elana Johnson’s work, including Possession, Surrender, Abandon, and Regret, published by Simon Pulse (Simon & Schuster), is available now everywhere books are sold. Her popular ebook, From the Query to the Call, is also available for free download, as well as a Possession short story, Resist. School teacher by day, Query Ninja by night, you can find her online at her personal blog or Twitter. She also co-founded the Query Tracker blog, and contributes to the League of Extraordinary Writers.

Social Media Links:

Website/blog

Twitter

Facebook

Tumblr

Wattpad

League of Extraordinary Writers

WriteOnCon

Elana on Goodreads

And just because I'm so excited about this book, I've decided to hold a little contest. I'm going to give away a free e-copy of DESCENDANT to one lucky winner. To enter, all you have to do is help spread the word about ELEVATED and fill out this form. You can choose to do only one or a few, or all the options on this list. I'll notify the winner by email. Open internationally. 

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Happy Birthday to Me (and Some Celebrating)

They say it's my birthday. Da-na-na-na-na. It's your birthday too...

Wait. Maybe not. But we can pretend, right? I'm pretty good at sharing, usually. Why not? You can take that extra year and I'll keep the party. Sound good? Deal then.

Anyway, I had a post all ready for today, and then I realized that, ahem, today is a day I should be celebrating. Because I feel like it. And because most years I try to skip right over this day and not make a big deal about it and blah blah. But not this year. This year I'm already giving away prizes and gifts and doing fun things to celebrate (it's not too late to enter!) so I figure I might as well go all the way.

Virtual cookies all around! Party hats and all that jazz.
 No gifts required.

However, if you absolutely insist ... if you must offer a gift, read my book and then leave a review. Help spread the word on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Goodreads, Shelfari, and Book Depository.

In the current market, reviews are one of the most effective helps you can offer to a new author. Two sentences is all we need, and those same sentences can be copied and pasted in each different venue. And what I want most for the coming year is to grow and expand my career. So yeah. Two sentences, five minutes. That's all. And if you do it by the end of today, July 9th, 2013, YOU get presents. 

*clinks glass with a butter knife*

 Regardless of the previous paragraph in which I contradict myself by saying no gifts, and then telling you what you can give me, I want to make a virtual Dr. Pepper toast.

Thank you! Thanks for reading and for continuing to come back here and see what I have to say and for giving me a reason to keep writing and keep blogging and just altogether keep on going down this path. I *heart* you all to the moon and back, and I can't wait to see what this next year brings!

What a Fortune (also, a must-read book)

Check out this Facebook fortune cookie I got the other day: 

Never lose the ability to find beauty in ordinary things.

I love this cookie so much I had to share. What are some of the ordinary, yet beautiful things you’ve seen lately?

A while back, I stopped doing book reviews on this site because, well, I started to feel like book reviews were overtaking my posts. But I didn’t want to stop discussing books, so I started a book blog called Star Crossed, where I periodically—with apparently no real sense of schedule—post thoughts and discussions about books I’ve read and loved. Today, we’re talking about The Peasant Queen by Cheri Chesley.  

Here’s the short blurb:

After running away from home, Krystal is transported to a faraway kingdom where an evil tyrant is bent on taking the crown - and Krystal's hand in marriage. But when she falls in love with the rightful heir to the throne, she must make an impossible choice: sacrifice her one chance at happiness or face the destruction of an entire kingdom.

Come on by and see what I thought. Don't forget to leave a comment to be entered into this way cool contest. 

Book Review: Heroes of the Fallen by David J. West

When I first heard about the release of David West’s upcoming novel, Heroes of the Fallen, I was intrigued. I’ve seen fictional accounts of LDS scripture stories turned novels before, but this one is different because I have never seen a scripture-based novel set in this particular time period. David has done an excellent job of researching this culture and utilizing it in his story. I find it interesting how he has taken many historical characters and brought them to life, given them fears and goals, love and anger, hopes and discouragements so that we are better able to see them in a human light, rather than a written one.

The prologue is written in a different style than the rest of the book. It’s literary, heart-wrenching, and simply beautiful. I almost wish the rest of the book was written in the same style, although I understand why that would’ve been next to impossible, considering the complexity of the story and multiple points of view. This story is well developed, and it’s clear David has gone to great efforts to get to know each character well.

My nitpick on this particular book would have to be that because there are so many characters involved, and the point of view changed so often, it was sometimes hard to keep track of who was where and what was going on. I suspect, though, that it will get easier with the next book in the series.

Here’s the blurb:

In a world at war, who will rise to become the heroes of the fallen?


It is the last days of the great Nephite nation as they battle for survival against their sworn enemies, the Lamanites. As the conflict unfolds upon this ancient American landscape, sides are taken and weapons are drawn.


Stand alongside daring heroes with swords bared against sinister villains, never knowing which will fall—Captain Amaron and his Ten Scouts, Zelph the White Lamanite, or Anathoth the Lamanite general, agonizingly loyal to the despised King of Tullan—all must face the chillingly evil Gadianton Master Akish-Antum and his many followers.

Witness the plans of mighty kings and lowly thieves. Follow the murderous intrigue of the Gadianton grand master and his wife, the beautiful sorceress Lilith. See the dreams of Bethia, a prophet’s daughter, as she leaves home seeking independence, only to find confusion and wickedness in a land at war.

And if that doesn’t sound intriguing enough for you, check out the trailer:


To read more work by David J. West, check out his blog.

To purchase your copy of Heroes of the Fallen, click here.


**FTC FYI I was given a free copy of this book in order to read and review. Neither this nor my friendship with the author has in any way affected my opinion of the book itself.

Spread the Awesome 10 Star Review and Giveaway: Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

My awesomesauce friend, Elana Johnson, had the best idea last month. 60 authors + 60 ten-star books + 60 blog posts about said books (with a few giveaways thrown in) = the Spread the Awesome blogosphere deluge!

If ever you wonder what you should read or what incredible new YA books are on the market this year, this is the best place to find just what you’re looking for. And not only that, some of us are giving copies of these fantastic books away.  Including me.

The catch? You have to read the blogs to find out who is giving what away, and who loves, loves, loves which books. Not that we don’t all love several of the books on this list. These were some seriously tough choices.  Speaking of choices, here’s mine:

INCARCERON

By Catherine Fisher

Imagine a living prison so vast that it contains corridors and forests, cities and seas. Imagine a prisoner with no memory, who is sure he came from Outside, even though the prison has been sealed for centuries and only one man, half real, half legend, has ever escaped.

Imagine a girl in a manor house in a society where time has been forbidden, where everyone is held in a seventeenth century world run by computers, doomed to an arranged marriage that appalls her, tangled in an assassination plot she both dreads and desires.

One inside, one outside.

But both imprisoned.
Imagine a war that has hollowed the moon, seven skullrings that contain souls, a flying ship and a wall at the world's end.

Imagine the unimaginable.

Imagine Incarceron.

Doesn’t the very description just give you chills? And that’s not even the jacket copy. The whole book is beautifully written with an elegant style that is rare in fantasy and dystopian YA novels. And like such rare and engrossing novels, Incarceron ends on a cliff hanger that makes you want to scream “NOOOOOOO!” That is, until the next book in the series is released. Want to know more? Of course you do.

Here’s the real jacket copy:



Incarceron is a prison so vast that it contains not only cells, but also metal forests, dilapidated cities, and vast wilderness. Finn, a seventeen-year-old prisoner, has no memory of his childhood and is sure that he came from Outside Incarceron. Very few prisoners believe that there is an Outside, however, which makes escape seems impossible.
 


And then Finn finds a crystal key that allows him to communicate with a girl named Claudia. She claims to live Outside- she is the daughter of the Warden of Incarceron, and doomed to an arranged marriage. Finn is determined to escape the prison, and Claudia believes she can help him. But they don't realize that there is more to Incarceron than meets the eye. Escape will take their greatest courage and cost more than they know.

I give this book ten stars—even though I don’t really rate books by stars. But I definitely recommend it. This story is worth the read.  But, you say, where can I find a copy? Well, if you don’t want to run out to your local bookstore, or order it online, you can enter my contest. That’s right, I’m giving away my copy of Incarceron (as soon as I can wrestle it away from my son). All you have to do is follow my blog, and leave a comment.

Yep, that’s all. But I suppose if you feel inclined to tweet or Facebook this contest, I’d likewise give you an extra entry for each. Just make sure you leave me a link. You have until midnight, May 8th. I'll announce the winner on Monday, May 10th.

Do you have a favorite ten-star book? I want to know what it is! Please share.

Next blog on the list: Beth Revis reviews Love That Dog by Sharron Creech. Check out her review and find out if she’s giving away a copy of Love That Dog.

You can find the full list of ten-star reviews on Elana Johnson’s recommended reads page. 

**I do not know this author, nor was I given a free copy of this book to review, so my ten-star rating of this title cannot possibly be skewed.

Book Review: "I'll Know You By Heart" by Kimberly Job

Have you ever met an author who was such a natural at writing that you almost couldn’t find anything wrong with her rough drafts? I’m talking, serious searching just to find a that or a just to delete, or a wrong punctuation mark or something.

Yeah, well. That’s Kimberly Job. I read this book as a rough draft and have watched it grow and emerge until it became the beautiful, heart-wrenching story that is now printed and bound. I fell in love with Stephanie and Jared from chapter one. Their love story is tragic, yet triumphant and leaves you with a feeling of satisfaction that makes you think, yes, that is how endings should be.

The thing about this book is that it’s not just a story about love, but about pain, survival, and about starting over. I found this book intense and full of deep emotions, the kind that really made me think. And I have to admit, I’m a total sucker for a great kissing scene. And this book does have a few.

Here’s the blurb:

The day Stephanie Roberts met Jared Wakefield, she didn’t realize they had met before. Running from an abusive marriage and trying to safeguard her children, Stephanie turns to Jared for support—but he needs more from her than she might be capable of giving. With her abusive husband looming in her past, the difficulties they must overcome seem insurmountable.


Is it possible for love to conquer all? I’ll Know You By Heart is a timeless romance that explores the possibility that relationships span the entire realm of eternity—a story about abuse, hardship, and betrayal—ultimately a story about the healing power of everlasting true love.

Kim has granted me an interview, so let’s see what she has to say to my official interview questions.


NG: What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?

KJ: This may be shocking, but I don't really like ice cream. I much prefer cookies, brownies, pie, cake--you get the picture. Don't get me wrong, I'll eat ice cream, but it's not my dessert of choice. When I do eat it, I prefer something fruity--peach, strawberry, or just plain vanilla.

NG: Holy wow, that is shocking. But fruit is good. Always. Who is your favorite author? (Besides yourself or me, since everyone already knows we’re both awesome.)

KJ: I thought you said these questions were easy.

NG: Sorry!

KJ: I read a lot, but LDS fiction is still my favorite, so I'd say my favorite author is Jennie Hansen. I easily identify with her characters. My favorite book of Jennie's is Run Away Home.

NG: Yes, I agree. Her stuff is really good. I’ll have to look for Run Away Home. But you can’t read and write all the time, so, what’s your most favorite thing to do when you’re not reading or writing?

KJ: Well, I'm a newlywed, so I love spending time alone with my husband. We don't even have to be doing anything grand. I love the late night hours when I lay snuggled next to him, tucked under his arm with my head on his chest and we talk about life--our children, struggles, hopes, dreams, and how happy we are.

NG: Aw. You sound like a romance writer. Oh wait, you are a romance writer. Duh. Makes total sense to me now. But you know, there’s still something I can’t figure out about you. If you were an animal, what kind would you be and why?

KJ: I really don't like animals of any kind, so does a stuffed teddy bear count?

NG: I suppose if you don’t mind having a head-full of cotton, I don’t mind either. Maybe you’d prefer a more romance-type question. Do you prefer diamonds or pearls?

KJ: Diamonds for sure. Pearls remind me too much of my mom and grandma.

NG: Gotcha. And diamonds sparkle in the sunshine, too.

NG: One last question. Name one or two power snacks that keep you going as you write.

KJ: Pecans and string cheese--okay, and chocolate too. :)

NG: Of course! Kim, thanks for spending some time with me today. I’m always curious about the important issues in an author’s life. You know, since these answers tend to tell us what really makes an author tick.

To find out more about Kimberly Job, click here.

To purchase I’ll Know You by Heart click here.

To find out more about Valor publishing, click here.

**I received a copy of this book from the author. Yes, I’m reviewing it, but that’s my choice. I read this story long before publication and loved it then almost as much as I do now. My friendship with the author has in no way colored my review of the work.

Is Reviewing Books Worth the Work?

I am so behind in my book reporting, it’s not even funny. Or maybe it is. I scheduled myself for all these reviews and stuff, and then before I finished all the books, made the mistake of taking my kids to the library where I checked out seven more. Yeah, well, two different libraries. Whaddayado? And I love to read. Seriously, love it. So. Only scheduled or important books are being reviewed this month.

The good news is I’m starting to get caught up. Well, okay, not really, because as soon as I typed that I remembered that I just agreed to do five more reviews. But they're books I was going to read anyway, so that’s okay with me.

Last month, I was weighing the pros and cons of continuing to do reviews at all. I’ve also considered starting a blog that’s dedicated to just posts of this type, so that I can narrow my focus on this blog a bit. In my experience, book reviews don’t get a lot of comments. But then I was talking to someone I know—who is not a writer, and not even a big reader—who said something that made me think again.

She works full time, has three kids and a widowed father who needs lots and lots of care, and travels out of state several times a month with her daughter for specialized medical treatment. She has a lot on her plate. But as we discussed her most recent trip, she mentioned how she’s been spending a lot of downtime in hotel rooms and how bored she gets. Recently, she decided to purchase a few books to pass the time. But she didn’t know what she wanted, so she went to my blog and read the book reviews before heading to the bookstore.

Yes, that’s right. She read MY book reviews for recommendations of books she might like to read.

Even though she’s only one person, her off-handed comment made it all worthwhile. So, while I’m still debating the pros and cons of starting a separate book review blog, I’m feeling validated in reviewing itself. I think that as long as I keep reading, I’ll probably always enjoy reviewing.

That said, I’m still getting caught up. Therefore, this week, you can expect to see both a review and a spotlight. Don’t worry, I’ll still blog about regular stuff, too. Just call me superwoman.

Book Review: Women of the Book of Mormon by Heather B. Moore

All right. You know me. I have a published book titled Mormon Mishaps and Mischief. And while my general reading list is mostly national YA fiction—cuz that’s what I love—every once in a while I read something religious as well. It’s good for me.

Admittedly, I’m pretty selective in my religious reading choices. Yes, I have issues. Some of them having to do with my tendency toward boredom. However, having said that, I can honestly say that I LOVE Heather Moore’s work. I’ve read all of her books, and enjoyed every minute of each one. This is the first non-fiction work by Moore, and I have to admit, it took me a while to open the e-file and get started for that reason alone. But when I did finally open it to read, I was surprised at how quickly I was pulled in. This stuff is seriously interesting. I should’ve known I could trust this particular author to tell the facts in an interesting manner.

And not only that, each chapter is headed with spectacular art. The whole book is beautifully done. Here’s the blurb:

Explore the lives, circumstances, and choices of women in the Book of Mormon in this uplifting and inspirational volume that illustrates the parallels between the lives of the women of the Book of Mormon and LDS women today. With new insights on practically every page, author Heather B. Moore explores the written and unwritten stories of the prominent women in the Book of Mormon — taking familiar material and providing vivid details about family dynamics, domestic practices, and other aspects of daily life. By applying historical and cultural contexts to the situations of women like Sariah, Abish, Eve, Mary, and the faithful mothers of the striplings warriors, you will peek beneath the surface of the scriptural accounts to better understand both the righteous women of the Book of Mormon — and the women who didn’t use their agency wisely.

My thoughts:

There are very few women mentioned in the Book of Mormon, so I was surprised by the number of chapters and the parallels that clearly line up between these women and those mentioned in the Bible. The customs and traditions during this era of time seem so difficult in my mind, and yet some select women not only accepted their lot, but embraced it in order to raise righteous children who changed the world with their faith and influence.

Moore manages to give us insights that aren’t necessarily apparent in your every day scripture study. Or at least, not mine. And I appreciate the views, especially the chapter about Eve, and her vision of what had to be done for the good of mankind, rather than having been beguiled into making a bad decision.

I highly recommend this book for all LDS women. This book is a quick read, and makes a great Mother’s Day gift for the faithful women in your life.

To learn more about Heather B. Moore and her other books, click here.

To read a sample chapter of Women of the Book of Mormon, click here.

To purchase your copy of Women of the Book of Mormon, click here.


**I received an electronic file of this book in order to read it and give an honest review. In receiving this file, I have agreed NOT to share or sell it to any other party, thus, it has no monetary value for me. It does, however have intellectual value for which I’m sincerely grateful to the author. And I do believe I shall purchase multiple copies to give as gifts to the important women in my life.

Book Review: "Haunts Haven" by Joan Sowards

By Nichole Giles

Before I get started on telling you about the book, Rachelle has announced the grand prize winner for the Original Scrapbox EZ View Craftdesk. Click here to see who won, what they won, and the results of the clicks for charity drive. I nominated the Fisher House in San Antonio, so if you agree that they should receive this wonderful prize, go leave a comment about it!


And now for other important matters.

The blurb:

When Callie Wilford inherits a century-old inn in southern Arizona, locals tell her of a ghost who “guards” the inn. But Callie doesn’t believe in ghosts, and she plans to turn the inn into a bed and breakfast. Then things start to happen—strange, spooky things—and she begins to wonder if there is some truth to the ghost stories. If that weren’t bad enough, Callie discovers a mysterious grave in the cellar. As she confronts the inn’s tragic secrets, she also faces her lonely past and learns to embrace her heritage. But it takes a handsome cowboy and a charming rancher to prove that Callie’s long-guarded heart can love again.

This is a sweet story written in a similar style to old-fashioned ghost stories told around a campfire. Haunts Haven differs from your average every-day LDS story in that it includes ghosts, which is something I’m not sure has ever been done in the LDS market. Or, at least, not that I’ve seen.

I got my review copy along with Missing, which I reviewed last week, and was excited to read them both. Even though I’ve had tons of stuff going on, I finished each book quickly. Haunts Haven is a short, quick, read through in one sitting type book, and I enjoyed my time spent with Callie, Lizzie, James and Clay.

Best-selling author, Kerry Blair has this to say:

Haunts Haven grabs your attention from the first page and holds it into the wee hours…Joan Sowards combines the supernatural with mystery, romance, and suspense—and does it amazingly well!

I started reading Haunts Haven for it’s charm, was soon hooked on the love story, and found myself perched on the edge of my seat as the suspense kept me delightfully up past midnight.

A love story you will never forget in a tale of suspense you will want to read again and again!

To read the first chapter of Haunts Haven, visit Joan’s blog by clicking here.

To buy your copy of Haunts Haven (or one to give away as a gift), click here.

Until next time, write on!

Nichole

**Yes, I got a free copy of this book, sent directly from the publisher. No, it is not signed by the author, and yes, I may someday pass it on to someone else, but I won't be selling it as has been insinuated by the creation of this idiotic law. As it happens, I love books and have a bad habit of keeping the ones I love on my shelves until I've memorized them word for word, at which point I will give them to the next book lover who will be next to memorize it. I ask you, is that a crime? I didn't think so!                                                                           

Two Days to Launch, Prizes to Win, and an Awesome Gift Idea

Okay, so first of all, the book launch for Mormon Mishaps and Mischief is in two days. Two days, people! This is crazy cool, and before you ask, yes, I'm totally excited. This will be my very first book signing in which I'm actually on the author side of the table. Yahoo! And I'm lucky because if no one shows up, at least I'll have my co-author Cindy to talk to. No hours spent twiddling our thumbs and feeling stupid for us. No-sirree. (But please, show up. Please, please, please...okay, so I told myself I wouldn't beg. Enough of that!)

Now, lest you have forgotten in all my many posts, you are all invited to this launch. And I'll just add that Cindy and I are in the process of putting together the prizes and gift baskets, and this is going to be one launch you don't want to miss. But...if you can't make it, check out my sidebar for one of our other December signings. We're planning to have a few giveaways at those as well.

We'd love to meet you!

Now, moving on to other cool news:

I'm told there are several blogs giving away copies of Missing by Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen. In case you didn't read my review the other day, scroll to the blog below this one or click here. This is a must read!  Click here, here, or here and enter to win.

Also, if you're looking for awesome cool prizes, don't forget about the Original Scrapbox 12 Blogs of Christmas giveaway. Click here to enter and find out more details.

My good friend, Mary Greathouse, has just released her newest creation, The Family Record Keeper. This handy-dandy little book is an organizing genius for vital information for everyone in the family. I've been waiting anxiously for this book to be released, and now it's here! Thank goodness. And just in time for the holidays, too. It's a great gift idea.



Here's the scoop:

A personal record journal for parents, children and grandparents  

Keep all of your important personal family records from babyhood through senior citizen years.,  All in one place.
.
Personal information                          Education                                              Resume of my life experiences        
Identification records                           Medical records                                   Things I'd like my family to know
Immunization records                         Military                                                    Financial records, if desired
Employment                                          Religious activities                              Marriage and family
Organizations & activities                    Youth Activities                                     Scouting records

Customize to your needs

• Compact,  7" x 9"  3-ring binder with removable pages
• Add or remove pages to fit your needs
• Individual sections for 5 different family members, more individual sections available
• Each section includes 38 pages
• Emergency information section includes contact information, meeting places, special instructions, etc.
• Extra pages for  Special Occasions,  School schedules,
• Year in Review section to track major life events, year-by-year.
  
• Movable address pages
  
• Lots of extra note pages to move to where you need more record keeping room
• Grab and go in an emergency.  All of your records in hand

Click here to order your copy.

Got to run now, people. Lots to do! More later. Until next time, Write on!

Nichole

 

Book Review: "Missing" by Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen

By Nichole Giles

I have to be honest. I’ve been waiting to get my hands on this book for months. And when it finally got here two days after Thanksgiving, I picked it up and started reading—despite the fact that I was smack dab in the middle of Dan Brown’s latest thriller. And let’s not talk about all the shopping I needed to do. That’s how excited I was to read this book. Yes, I admit, it sounds like Missing had some fierce competition, but Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen didn’t disappoint me.

The Blurb:


A BYU-Idaho choir tour in British Columbia turns out to be anything but ordinary when soloist Stacie Cox spots a kidnapped child from Rexburg during a performance. Before Stacie can alert the authorities, the little girl disappears. Stacie vows to find and rescue her, a choice that forces her to deal with her guilt-ridden past and another little girl that haunts her dreams.


When the handsome Matt Brennan helps Stacie in the search, she tries to resist the attraction she feels for him. Yet as he gains her friendship and trust, her resolve to never fall in love begins to crumble. And after a series of harrowing events, Stacie must decide if she is willing to sacrifice her life— and a possible future with Matt—to save a stranger.

My take:

Stacie Cox is a well rounded character. I liked how I saw her flaws early in the book, and how those flaws affected her throughout the story and turned out to be strengths in the end. The hunky love interest, Matt, also had his share of issues, though I do wish the story would have delved a bit deeper into his life, giving us the opportunity to get to know him a bit better. Still, you can only have so many main characters in a story, right? I found myself really hating Adrienne, the villain. She’s one messed up lady, and yet as we discover more about her, I feel kind of sorry for her, even as I really want her to get caught.

I found it interesting how the setting takes place in British Columbia near a castle. I’ve never been there, and now I find myself wanting to visit just to see the areas described in the book.

The fast paced story kept me reading from beginning to end, and even though I’ve had about a hundred other things to do this past week, I zipped through the entire book because I just had to know what happened next.  Also, the author's technical knowledge of writing is top notch.

My Nitpicks:

At the end I found myself wishing for just a little bit more. More conclusion? Another scene? I’m not sure what, just something. And knowing that Ronda has another book in the works, I’m hoping that the “more” is in the form of a sequel. But as I said, that’s just me being nitpicky, and even if the next book is a stand alone, I'll take it and be happy. 

All in all:

Great book, thrilling read all the way to the end. And yes, it was worth taking a break from Dan Brown for a couple days. Missing was much more romantic, less gruesome, and easier to read and understand. I can’t wait to see what Ronda writes next.

To read more about the author click here.

To purchase your copy of Missing click here or here.


Don't forget to enter the Craft Desk Giveaway sponsored by The Original Scrapbox.  And check out my sidebar to see where I'll be signing Mormon Mishaps and Mischief this week.



**The author of this blog received a free copy of this book, even though I had planned to buy it, had set aside money to do so, and would’ve reviewed it after I paid for it, with the same results and comments. The only difference is that because the book came in the mail, it took longer to get here and is not signed. Therefore, I will have to track Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen down at one of her many events and have her sign it before it can join the collection of books on my shelf.

Book Review: "An Angel on Main Street" by Kathi Oram Peterson

By Nichole Giles
 


The Blurb:

Micah Connors promised his mother he would be good in their new town. But with Christmas only three days away, being escorted home by the sheriff does not bode well. Can the towering officer be trusted not to tell what happened? Perhaps the ramshackle stable that has appeared on Main Street will sidetrack him from spilling the day’s events — or maybe his interest in Micah’s widowed mother will do the trick.

The last thing Dawn Connors needs is to hear her son is in trouble. She has enough to worry about with her husband gone and her daughter, Annie, ill. Even though Micah has told his sister the rustic structure in the middle of town is simply part of the town’s holiday decorations, Annie is sure that unseen angels are building the crude stable — which means baby Jesus is coming, and he can make her better.

Terrified that his little sister might die, Micah vows to find the baby Jesus for Annie, even if it is only a plastic doll. But as Micah gets nearer to his goal he finds angels are closer than he ever would have believed.

My Take:

In a market that has become saturated with holiday books, I think it must be hard for an author to create a story that stands out and becomes a new family favorite. When I was first asked to review this book, I hesitated, knowing that since I started writing I’ve become increasingly more difficult to please when it comes to books, especially when it comes to technical mistakes in writing.

I thought An Angel on Main Street was a cute story. I liked the built in character flaws, and the conflict in having Annie be so sick, and Micah’s mom feeling the pressure of single parent. My favorite character was actually the Sheriff. I love that in this story, the town cop is a good guy. (Imagine that!) Also, you can really feel a strong family tie between Micah, Annie, and their mother.

The story itself is one of those feel-good types, where you come away feeling better than you did when you started reading. That’s always an important quality in a book.

My Nitpicks:

As I mentioned before, I’m one of those readers who doesn’t have a lot of tolerance for technical issues. That meaning there were minor things I wish had been researched, finished off, or left out altogether. Mostly, I wish this story had been fleshed out farther. There was an opportunity here for Peterson to draw the reader in and get us really invested in characters other than the viewpoint character, Micah, and I was sad to not see more of those other characters and know how their stories end. Also, I would’ve liked to see more of a conclusion at the end. There were a few questions left in my mind I would have liked to have had answered.

Technicalities aside, I enjoyed this book. Would I give it away as a gift? Probably. It’s short enough to not have time to drag in the middle, thin enough to be sold at a great price, and has a nice message. Plus, as I mentioned above, the Sheriff in the story is a good, caring, genuinely concerned guy. A human, if you will. (Don’t you ever get sick of reading about cops who are painted as robots with no feelings?)

To buy your copy of An Angel on Main Street, click here.

To learn more about the author, click here.

For information about Kathi Oram Peterson’s An Angel in My Life Contest, click here.


*The author of this blog received a free signed copy of this book, but once again has not allowed that to color my review. Seriously, whoever made up the disclaimer law ought to try reviewing books sometime.

Book Review: "Alma" by H.B. Moore

By Nichole Giles

I first met Heather Moore at an LDS Storymakers writing conference. I remember thinking what a nice person she was, and wondering what kind of things she writes. That was several years ago (five, maybe?) and since then, Heather has released a number of books, including her Out of Jerusalem series and her Book of Mormon prophet series starting with Abinadi. She won Whitney Awards in 2008 and 2009 for Out of Jerusalem and Abinadi, and I’m positive her most recent release, Alma, will gather a nomination as well.

Here’s the blurb:

King Noah is thundering with rage. On Amulon’s watch, the former high priest Alma disappeared from the city of Nephi, and every night more believers manage to escape. The king threatens certain punishment unless Amulon recaptures Alma—a seemingly impossible task. But Amulon has a plan. An equally valuable prisoner is at his fingertips: Noah’s wife, Maia, whose newfound faith means bitter humiliation for the king and an opportunity for Amulon to seize power.

Amulon’s disavowed daughter Raquel is making plans of her own. Alma and his followers are building a colony by the waters of Mormon, and she’s determined to begin a new life there despite the deep grief she suffers daily as Abinadi’s widow. Abinadi’s watchful brother Helam deems the journey to Mormon too risky, but when Lamanites plunder and burn the settlement, Raquel has no choice but to flee with her young son.

Drama and danger escalate as Alma the Elder organizes the Lord’s church and baptizes its members, bringing an outpouring of divine grace and power. But even as they rejoice, the believers have profound and perilous trials to face, from the outward threat of Amulon’s treachery to the inward threat of pride and disobedience. With poignant emotion, gripping suspense, and rich inspiration, this new epic story from H.B. Moore vividly brings the Book of Mormon to life.

Yes, Heather and I are friends. And I’m really glad. But being the honest person that I am, I refuse to let that color my opinion of her writing. So here’s the truth. I read this book in two days. You know, because I actually did have to put it down to be the mom and stuff. Every time I put it down, I had to rush through whatever I was doing to hurry and pick it back up again. Loved the whole thing from beginning to end.

I know, I know. I should already know this story, right? (Ahem, that is, I should have read it in the scriptures—or at least a similar story.) Except this is very different from scripture in that Heather has done a smashing job of bringing the characters to life. It’s easy to read and, if you can believe it, romantic. That’s right. I said romantic. This story is loaded with romance, intrigue, and trial after trial of faith building experience for all the characters involved. Never in my life have I seen the scriptural prophets in such a human light as this. Heather has done an excellent job of portraying life as it might have been for the ancient believers.

Nitpicks:

Yeah, a while back, I committed to my readers that I’d do a nitpick section when reviewing. There are times when I find it extremely hard to keep that promise. Especially when I read a book that I love as much as this one. So…my nitpick for this book is going to be…hm. Oh, I know, how about that I have to wait another year for the next one. Yep, that’s it.

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to attend a conference where Heather taught a very informative and helpful class. We also got to hang out a little bit, which was way fun. She was even nice enough to let me interview her on the most important things every reader wants to know about excellent authors like her.

The Interview:

NG: What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? Today, my new favorite is Ben and Jerry’s Key Lime Pie.

HBM: Dreyer’s Pink Peppermint ice cream—the one they sell only around Christmas time. I’ll have to try that Key Lime Pie flavor. Yum. But those orange cream shakes at Arby’s are really good too.

NG: Okay, that just sounds way too good right now. No wonder we get along so well. Well, that and because we both love to write. Speaking of writing, who is your favorite author? (Besides you or me, since everyone already knows we’re both awesome.)

HBM: Oh, that’s hard then. Besides you . . . two of my classic favs are Mary Higgins Clark and Maeve Binchy. I think I’ve read every single one of their books.

NG: Awesome. I love Mary Higgins Clark, too. Never read Maeve Binchy, but I’ll have to check out something by her.

(Takes time out to make a note on the list of books to be read.)

NG: Other than attending awesome, fun writing conferences, what is your most favorite thing to do when you’re not writing?

HBM: Reading! I read a lot—I consider it part of my job to read the bestsellers out there. Such a hard job J

NG: Well, hm. No wonder you love your job. For that matter, I love it, too. Reading rocks. I recently read a book about people who morphed into wolves. It was awesome. So, the question begs to be asked. If you were an animal, what kind would you be and why?

HBM: Lion. I’ve loved lions since I was a kid and still have many books on them. Something about being the king of the jungle has always fascinated me.

NG: So not what I expected. But definitely cool. You’d make a beautiful lioness. Personally, I’m more of a sea creature myself. Last week I thought I’d be a dolphin, but this week I’m thinking I’d be a mermaid. That way, I could swim along the bottom of the ocean looking for treasure. Speaking of which, do you prefer diamonds or pearls?

HBM: Umm . . . I have a diamond ring and a pearl necklace, but I hardly wear either. Maybe diamonds because they are so sparkly.

NG: Sparkles really do make a difference. You should wear both more often. Jewelry makes a girl feel good.

NG: One more question then I’ll let you get back to your writing. Name one or two power snacks that keep you going as you write.

HBM: Almonds and juice. (Did I mention that there is chocolate covering the almonds—does that count as a power snack?)

NG: Um, yes, definitely. Can we say almond M&M’s? Yes, chocolate does special things to the creative mind I think. And juice is just plain old good. Much better than the Dr. Pepper sitting next to me at the moment.

Thanks, Heather, for taking the time to let us have a glimpse into the important things that make an award winning author tick.

To learn more about Heather B. Moore, click here.

To purchase your copy of Alma click here.

For information on Heather’s professional editing services (along with those of her colleagues) click here.

Book Review: "Saving Madeline" by Rachel Ann Nunes

By Nichole Giles

**Leave a comment on this blog and be entered into a drawing to win a copy of Saving Madeline. When I first learned that Rachel Ann Nunes was doing a virtual book tour, I put my hand in the air, and jumped up and down yelling, “Me, me, me, pick me!” After all, Rachel’s books are all excellent, wonderful reads, and I knew in a blink that Saving Madeline was a must read book. A minute or so later, I realized Rachel couldn’t hear or see me jumping up and down like an idiot, so I’d need to reply to her over Facebook or email to let her know I was interested.

How excited I was to get my electronic copy. The funny thing is that I intended to upload the book onto my iPhone so I could take it with me when I didn’t have my computer. But…I didn’t end up needing to. I read it so fast, there were only one or two times I wished I’d remembered to do that. Mostly, I’d come home from taxiing my kids, and rush to the computer to read more. Yeah, it was that good. (And all thoughts of me working on my own writing flew out the window during that time. No way could I concentrate on another story when I was so into this one.)

Here’s the blurb:

As a public defender, Caitlin McLoughlin dreams of someday locking the bad guys in prison instead of defending them. But prosecuting jobs are scarce, and Caitlin’s future seems bleak. When her current client is about to walk away from a brutal crime, she risks her career to make sure he doesn’t hurt anyone else. Yet what if her choice means sacrificing her career and the means to care for her mentally disabled sister? Then Caitlin meets Parker Hathaway, charged with kidnapping four-year-old Madeline. Just another criminal, another job, Caitlin thinks.

But Parker tells a far different story. Can Caitlin believe him, as her heart urges? Is she willing to put everything on the line to defend her client—a man who claims to be protecting the child he loves? Or is her trust better placed in the handsome deputy district attorney with his undefeated record in court? Caitlin’s pursuit of the truth swiftly thrusts her into a maze of unanswered questions and unexpected heartache.

Meanwhile, time is running out for Madeline. If Caitlin doesn't find the proof she is looking for soon, there may not be a future for any of them.

This story hit close to home for me. My husband’s job makes it difficult for me to ignore the stark reality of the world some people live in, and the choices they make. It’s even more difficult to know that this same type of reality exists for people I know and love.

So as the story unfolded, I found myself wondering time and again how I would handle this situation, or that situation, or what I would do in a certain position. For instance, in Caitlin’s circumstances with the guilty criminal, would I risk everything to see him punished? And what about her responsibilities for her sister? Or in Parker’s position, would I give up everything—including the possibility of love—to save my child from danger? Even if my choices could possibly land me in jail?

The truth is, this story may be fiction, but it deals with real-life issues for which the answers are never black and white, but instead, several different shades of gray. I love that about this book. I love a story that makes me think, makes me wonder, and evokes such powerful emotions in me that in the end I want to rejoice and cry at the same time.

And I especially love that even though I finished it two weeks ago, I still catch myself thinking about it. If you’re looking for a compelling, heart-wrenching, make-you-think love story, this one’s a must read.

I had the opportunity to visit a little bit with Rachel yesterday. She’s such an outgoing lady, and I was glad to get to ask the serious questions about the most important things in a writer’s life. She has very graciously allowed me to share that discussion here:

NG: Hey Rachel. Thanks for agreeing to chat with me today. I’m sure everyone asks you this, but it’s one of those all-important bits of information that we all really need to know. What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? Today, my new favorite is Ben and Jerry’s Key Lime Pie.

RAN: I like Caramel Caribou and Moose Tracks by Western Family. (Hey, I have six kids, including a missionary son and a daughter in college, so I have to budget wisely!)

NG: Hey, Western Family is a favorite at my house, too. Moose Tracks is high on everyone’s list, I think. (And definitely good on the budget.) So, now that I know the answer to the ice cream question, I have to ask. Who’s your favorite author? (Besides yourself or me, since everyone already knows we’re both awesome.)

RAN: I have so many. I mean, I read in so many genres. And then it seems like just when I recommend an author, they go and write something embarrassing so I'm eating my words. But I'll go out on a limb and say that I love some of the books by Anna Quindlen, Barabara Kingsolver, Kat Richardson, Brandon Sanderson, Alice Hoffman, Suzanne Collins, and many more. I adore reading, though, and I read quite widely in everything from children's fantasy and romance to urban fantasy and literary novels.

NG: See? That’s so like me. I read about everything I can get my hands on (well, you know, within reason. Phonebooks aren’t such a fun read). But besides reading, what’s your most favorite thing to do when you’re not writing?

RAN: I like swimming with my kids, spending time with my husband, reading, watching sci-fi series, walking, hiking, biking, and sleeping.

NG: Nice. Lots of exercise in there for us sit-at-the-computer-and-write-types. Good for you, I say! But it makes me wonder. You like swimming and walking, hiking, biking…so, if you were an animal, what kind would you be and why?

RAN: Probably some kind of bird. I've always been fascinated with flying. But I draw the line at killing mice or eating worms so maybe that wouldn't work out. Yuck! Have you ever thought about what might be inside the stomach of a mouse?

NG: Ew, ew, no. That is not a good picture at all. Neither of those two things sounds very appetizing to me, which is probably why I’d be a dolphin. Fish are safe for me—I like seafood. Not so much oysters, except for what you can find inside them. Speaking of which…Do you prefer diamonds or pearls?

RAN: Diamonds. Because I could always sell one and buy some pearls, too. :-)

NG: Good point. I’m going to remember that one. Sparkly and shimmery. A little bit of both goes a long way, right?

NG: Okay, one last question for all us writers looking to write the next brilliant novel. How about naming one or two power snacks that keep you going as you write.

RAN: Kirkland Weight Loss Shakes from Costco are a mainstay. I keep them in my office to snack on because I'm mostly too lazy to get up and make breakfast or lunch. It's a terrible habit, but it keeps me alive. When I do get up, I like fruits and vegetables. I don't like eating chocolate at the computer, though. As my website says, I love chocolate (Dove or Utah's Milk Chocolate Truffles) and writing so my family might never see me again. Not to mention that I'd have to buy all new clothes.

NG: Well, I can see how that might be a chore. Not to mention the time it would take away from your writing. Weight loss shakes sound like a great idea, though, and quite a time saver.

(Looks at watch.)

NG: Oh drat. We’re out of time. Could’ve used a few of those weight loss shakes today myself, since the day seems to go by much too quickly. Rachel, thanks so much for visiting with me and letting us have a glimpse into all of the most important aspects of an author’s life. See you at the next Storymakers conference.

To read more about Rachel Ann Nunes and her journey in writing this book, click here.

To purchase your copy of Saving Madeline click here.