When a Heart Stops (Revell Blog Tour)

Book Blurb: 
A killer's deadly game needs new players . . . but someone's about to change the rules

As a medical examiner, Serena Hopkins is used to dealing with death. But that doesn't make it any easier when she's called to the eerie scene of a murder--especially when Serena realizes that she knows the victim. Nearly as unnerving is the presence of FBI agent Dominic Allen, her childhood crush.

As evidence mounts and points to a serial killer with disturbingly familiar methods, Serena and Dominic must work to find a pattern and stop the killings before the murderer strikes again. And when Serena's own life seems at stake, she must decide if the secret she has been keeping has put her next on the killer's hit list. Can she trust Dominic with the truth before it's too late? 


My Review:

Whew! What a book! Fast-paced and heart pounding from the first page, this isn’t a book you want to miss!

I read this book incredibly fast. And that’s a good thing. This is the first book I’ve read from Miss Eason and I must say I’m impressed. Her writing is easy to read, her characters are very admirable, and her plot was a large knot just waiting to be untied.

When a Heart Stops is focused mainly on Serena. It was just another homicide investigation until Serena pulled up and recognized the victim as someone she knew from high school. Evidence seems to indicate that an old serial killer has returned…but he’s in jail so it must be a copycat. The tension mounts with every chapter and soon Serena finds herself the next target.

Serena is a medical examiner (M.E.) for the police. Not exactly an attractive job, but it was neat to read about. I’d like to thank Miss Eason for giving us a very little, visually, about the autopsies. From what I’ve heard, she’s had a part in past Eason novels, but this is the first time I met her. She is a very realistic character with honorable traits and a heart for God. I think she and I would have been good friends.

Miss Eason’s latest suspense novel is one that I enjoyed. I would recommend though, that you don’t read it at night… ;-)

Available October 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

About the Author:

Lynette Eason is the author of several romantic suspense novels, including Too Close to Home, Don't Look Back, A Killer Among Us and When the Smoke Clears. She is a member of American Fiction Christian Writers and Romance Writers of America. A homeschooling mother of two, she has a master's degree in education from Converse College. She lives in South Carolina. Visit her website at www.lynetteeason.com and follow her on Twitter at @LynetteEason.  

I received this book from Revell for free in return for an honest review of my opinions. Thanks!

An Interview with the lovely Jill Williamson! :)

Surprise! Hehehe...I am very happy to say that Jill has stopped by for an interview! Enjoy!

Jill Williamson

Tell us about yourself, for those who don’t know.

I write books for teens—fantasy, science fiction, dystopian, supernatural—anything weird or out of the ordinary. I didn't always want to write books. When I was growing up in Alaska, I had wanted to be a fashion designer someday, and I chased that dream all the way to New York City and then Los Angeles. But after a few years of The Devil Wears Prada-type experiences, I discovered that the fashion industry wasn't what I’d hoped it would be. So I tried something different and found out that I loved writing books. It took many more years before I was ready to be published, though.

 How were you inspired for The New Recruit? 

This was the first book I wrote. I was trying to write a story about teens going out into the world like missionaries, but since teen fiction books about missionaries weren't getting the attention of agents and editors, I tweaked the story and turned them into undercover agents. I was also trying to copy the format of Harry Potter. My goal was to get some teens away from their parents where they could receive some kind of training. At the time, I thought this was sneaky and brilliant, but it created so many problems! I've never written a book that way since. It’s not a good idea to copy what’s already successful—because the world already has that book. And human were created unique for a reason. There’s already one J. K. Rowling. And I need to be Jill Williamson. All that to say, even though I've rewritten The New Recruit from that first, horrible, draft, this book is not my strongest, but it’s still a whole lot of fun.

It was a really fun read too. What’s a quirky thing you do while you write?
I often snack, but that’s merely another form of procrastination.

Where is your favorite place to write?

Jill's Desk

At my desk. Here is a picture:

What movie/TV actors or actresses would you choose to play your main characters in a movie?
There are few boy actors out there young enough and tall enough to pull of Spencer’s character and his red hair. I think Adam Hicks might be able to pull it off.

Spencer

I think so too! Can you spill anything about the next book?
Sure. For now, the title is The Profile Match. Spencer and the other agents-in-training will travel to Okinawa, Japan on the summer training mission. Three new freshmen agents join the team, including one extremely obnoxious—and cute—girl, whose mission in life seems to be making Spencer miserable.

Oooh, can't wait! Lastly, is there anything specific you hope your readers will glean from The New Recruit?
There are no perfect people on this planet—Christians included. There are also a lot of hateful, worried, frightened people out there—Christians included. And hate, worry, and fear tend to be the motivations behind all judgment. But this world already has a judge. So let’s leave the judging to God and focus on loving others unconditionally. Hate the sin, not the sinner. Love the sinner.

Great message! Thank you so much Jill for stopping by!

The New Recruit (Blog Tour!)

My Review:
This book is your one-way ticket to Moscow, Russia!

Ms. Williamson's latest release, The New Recruit, the first in her new series, is an adventure-packed novel. For me, it started off a little slow but it didn't take too many chapters for the pace to really pick up. Then I was glued to it until the very last page.

In The New Recruit, we meet Spencer. Spencer isn't a Christian, but he goes to a Christian school. But, his knack for getting into trouble is getting back to him. His grandmother has given him her ultimatum: join the Mission League or go to Military school. He makes the obvious right choice and picks the "Bible geeks". Secrets are revealed and an adventure is unleashed.

While reading this, Ms. Williamson-through Spencer-really opened my eyes to how some people view Christians. It made me ponder how I've been acting/representing Christ. Am I showing Jesus's love to everyone? Am I shoving Jesus down other people's throats? I sure hope I'm not!

As for the characters, I liked Spencer, Isaac, Gabe, and Isabel. Arianna was sweet though a tad annoying at times but I could tell she had a heart of gold.

In my opinion, The New Recruit didn't top Replication (a previous novel from Ms. Williamson). But it still was pretty awesome. It truly felt like I was "watching" a spy movie. If you liked any of Ms. Williamson's previous novels you'll enjoy this one.

Book Blurb:
Forced to choose between military school and a Christian spy organization, skeptic Spencer Garmond signs on with the Bible geeks. But before he even boards the plane for Moscow, Spencer realizes this is no Bible club.

These guys mean business.

Stumbling onto a case involving a gang of homeless boys, a chilling tattoo, and the always beautiful Anya Vseveloda, Spencer struggles to find the faith needed to save the Mission League from enemy infiltration.


Book Trailer:

Interested? You can purchase the book here!

About Jill:
Jill Williamson is an author of all things weird. She grew up in Alaska with no electricity, an outhouse, and a lot of mosquitoes.

Her Blood of Kings trilogy won two Christy Awards, and she recently released Replication, a science fiction teen novel from Zonderkidz.
Jill lives in Oregon with her husband and two children and a whole lot of deer.

Psst! Don't forget to check back tomorrow for a surprise!

I received this book from Jill Williamson in return for an honest review. Thanks, Jill! 

Writing Mondays: Saying Goodbye to...

...one of your characters.

It isn't a pleasant thing. I don't like doing it. But sometimes it's necessary.

Yesterday, while outlining my WIP, The Patriot Republic (formerly known as Civil War), I made the decision to take out my cute side character, Alyssa Jonson. She's bubbly and sweet and naive... but she doesn't fit into my plot puzzle like I had hoped she would.

So that begs the question, is there a separate, new, character that might be a better fit? Perhaps. I had a new character turn in his application to me yesterday after I had handed out Alyssa's pink slip. His name's Darren, and he just might have a place-- but we'll see.

Though removing Alyssa does take some of my plans with her, it's for the best. There just wasn't a good way to include her without it seeming awkward. She may pop up and find a place in one of my later novels in the series, but for right now I'm saying goodbye.

Well, time to go patch up those holes Alyssa left. Have you ever had to cut a character from your novel? If so, tell me about it in the comments! :-) I'll be checking back later to respond.

What's Happening Next Week?

The New Recruit

Hey everyone! Sorry I haven't gotten this up the past few weeks. :( I've been really busy with school so, forgive me?

Moving on, Monday I have a special treat for you all! A writing post! Yes, indeed, the writing posts are back. With NaNoWriMo around the corner and a new writing buddy things have been picking up speed. :-D

Tuesday I'm on a wonderful blog tour for Jill Williamson to promote her latest novel, The New Recruit. I just started reading it last night, and I like it so far.

Here's the blurb (from Goodreads):
Forced to choose between military school and a Christian spy organization, skeptic Spencer Garmond signs on with the Bible geeks. But before he even boards the plane for Moscow, Spencer realizes this is no Bible club.

These guys mean business.
Stumbling onto a case involving a gang of homeless boys, a chilling tattoo, and the always beautiful Anya Vseveloda, Spencer struggles to find the faith needed to save the Mission League from enemy infiltration.

When a Heart Stops

Thursday I'm on another blog tour but this time it's for Revell. Look out for my review of When a Heart Stops by Lynette Eason!

Here's the blurb (from Goodreads):
Spunky and outgoing, nothing much bothers medical examiner Serena Hopkins--except for the thought of falling in love again. But when a serial killer is picking off her former classmates, Serena's life becomes intertwined with her old high school crush, FBI agent Dominic Allen. Is the secret she's keeping putting her next on the killer's hit list? Can she trust Dominic with the truth before it's too late? 

That wraps up next week, but let me tell you, I have some GREAT things in store for the month of October. Stick around if you want, because it's going to be a fun ride. ;D

Book Review: With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin

My Review:
An emotional, wonderful, touching, and amazing read!

I love books that transport me to the past with their imagery and realistic portrayal of the time period. Miss Sundin does just that. She takes us to many places in With Every Letter including Casablanca, North Africa, and even Italy.

In this sweet romance tale, Mellie and Tom anonymously correspond with one another. The anonymity twist was interesting, and particularly useful to the characters. I just loved the encouragement and advice the two gave each other, despite their own troubles.

Miss Sundin did a magnificent job bringing the book to a close. It wasn't too hasty and it wasn't too slow. I adored Mellie's growth from the beginning of the book to the end. She struggled, like most young women do, but she also sought God when she needed help or answers. I never tire of Godly heroines. :-) Overall, I really, really, liked this book.

People who have seen You've Got Mail featuring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks will like this book as well as anyone who likes historical fiction.
 

Back of the Book (From Amazon):
Lt. Mellie Blake is a nurse serving in the 802nd Medical Squadron, Air Evacuation, Transport. As part of a morale building program, she reluctantly enters into an anonymous correspondence with Lt. Tom MacGilliver, an officer in the 908th Engineer Aviation Battalion in North Africa. As their letters crisscross the Atlantic, Tom and Mellie develop a unique friendship despite not knowing the other's true identity. When both are transferred to Algeria, the two are poised to meet face to face for the first time. Will they overcome their fears and reveal who they are, or will their future be held hostage to their past? And can they learn to trust God and embrace the gift of love he offers them?

Interested? You can purchase your copy here!

I won this book in a giveaway, no review required.

Book Review: Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz

My Review:
This book is AMAZING! Go right now to Amazon and buy this book!

Love's Reckoning is set in Colonial times, just after the Revolutionary War. Miss Laura Frantz immediately takes you into this beautiful period and entrances you. Although her enchantments are not limited to the setting, but also extended to the characters and the storyline.

Miss Frantz's words flow right off the page and enter your imagination. Her characters, particularly Eden, Elspeth, and Silas, jumped right off the page! Having never read anything previous of Miss Frantz, I am very much impressed.

I absolutely hated Elspeth. I was supposed to, I guess, but that wasn't my only reason for my dislike. She made me ache for Eden, so much! You haven't read about an "evil sister" until you read Love's Reckoning. I sort of saw a comparison from the Lee family to the story of Cinderella. Disney style, of course, and minus the evil step-mother and second step-sister.

I smiled with Eden and I hurt with Eden. Her struggles were so great, yet she overcame them with the help of her father's Scot apprentice, Silas, and God. The ending was absolutely satisfying. Goodness, I loved this book.

Back of the Book (From Goodreads): 
On a bitter December day in 1785, Silas Ballantyne arrives at the door of master blacksmith Liege Lee in York, Pennsylvania. Just months from becoming a master blacksmith himself, Silas is determined to finish his apprenticeship and move west. But Liege soon discovers that Silas is a prodigious worker and craftsman and endeavors to keep him in Lancaster. Silas becomes interested in both of Liege's daughters, the gentle and faith-filled Eden and the clever and high-spirited Elspeth. When he chooses one, will the other's jealousy destroy their love? 

I bought this book on Amazon, no review was required. 

Book Review: This Scarlet Cord by Joan Wolf

My Review:

Rahab’s love story. 

Those were the words that piqued my interest. We all know who Rahab is, right? She was the woman who helped Joshua’s spies escape in Jericho. She is also mentioned in the genealogy of Christ in the book of Matthew.  

So I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect when I opened up Joan Wolf’s latest release. Granted the book was not what I expected, but I still enjoyed it somewhat. Miss Wolf’s writing is easy to read, and her imaginings about life in Biblical times appeared factual. 

I really liked how she portrayed Rahab: a free spirit, kind, life-loving, and beautiful girl. However, despite what we were told (that Rahab was only fourteen) it felt like she was much, much older. To pin an age to that, I mean sixteen or seventeen. She didn’t read at all like a fourteen year old, except maybe when she was pining for Sala.

Speaking of Sala, he also at times didn’t seem as mature as his age would demand (eighteen). He had his endearing moments though, which made up for the latter.  His compassion saved Rahab from being sold into slavery and his love brought her to Yahweh, making him an all around likable character. 

Overall, though I felt it took too much creative license here and there, I did like This Scarlet Cord. Before I finish though, I feel I must mention there is a sizable amount of implied sexual relations, due to the pagan culture Rahab lived in, and there was a situation/scene that left me very uncomfortable. Though Miss Wolf spared details, I felt it was unnecessary. For that reason, I give the book three stars.

Back of the Book:
A chasm lies between Rahab and her beloved Sala that can never be crossed.
Though Sala rescues young Rahab from slave bandits, he knows he can never fall in love with a
Canaanite. His belief in the One True God prevents them from a future together. Rahab's beauty
gains royal notice, and she is selected to entice the King during the annual sacred marriage
reenactment praising their pagan god, Baal.
But when the King suffers a heart attack and dies, Rahab is saved from the humiliating act. Her
despair drives her curiosity about Sala's One True God. Could He accept her . . . even love her?
Deceit and pride stand in the way of Rahab's happy ending. Only God can use these events to tell
the larger story of forgiveness and redemption.

Book Review: Code Triage by Candace Calvert

My Review:

A fast-paced medical-drama, which will keep you turning pages until the end!

Miss Calvert has composed fabulous characters that I loved immediately! I felt so connected to Leigh. I ached with her and smiled with her. Nick too. 

Leigh has her own definition of “being stubborn”.  She refuses to believe that “happily ever after” exists for anyone. Her mother only reinforces this belief by never staying with a man and telling her love never lasts.  Leigh is broken by her husband’s unfaithfulness and she doesn’t know how to put the pieces together. 

Nick is a very apologetic man wanting to save his marriage to Leigh.  He really reminded me of Caleb from Fireproof by Sherwood Pictures. He’s expressed in more than one way how sorry he is for being unfaithful and only seeks her forgiveness- and a second chance.  I thought it was admirable how he handled all the repercussions of what he did, despite how dishonorable his actions.   

I’d also like to mention two great supporting characters, Riley and Caroline. Riley is the ER Chaplin and provides a much needed ear to Leigh, but she also needs an ear of her own.  Riley struggles with terrible flashbacks and nightmares of a terrible thing done to her.  Caroline is Leigh’s sister, who’s just getting back on her feet, but also would like to see Nick and Leigh get back together. All four of them combine to make the kinds of characters I love to read about. 

Something I really loved was the suspense and the painful path to forgiveness and healing. There were times I wondered how the ending would play out, and I was never entirely sure if I was right. This book kept me up into the late hours of night, dying to finish.  I’d recommend this novel to any medical-drama lovers or anyone who loves a book that will keep you on your toes.  

Back of the Book:
Dr. Leigh Stathos likes her ER shifts fast, furious, and adrenaline-infused--"Treat 'em and street 'em"--with no emotional complications. Life's taught her a soul-rending lesson: nothing lasts forever, including marriage. And the clock is ticking toward the end of hers. Then an unwelcome confrontation with "the other woman" begins a whole new set of lessons. San Francisco police officer Nick Stathos never gives up, whether protecting his patrol neighborhood, holding fast to faith--or trying to save his marriage. Seven days is all he has to reach Leigh's heart. But when a desperate act of violence slams Golden Gate Mercy Hospital into lockdown, it starts a chain of events that will change lives forever.

Interested? You can purchase the book here!

Book Review: Dying to Read by Lorena McCourtney

My Review:
I love a great mystery! I also love a book that will keep me guessing or suspecting until the very end. Ms. McCourtney provides both in Dying to Read.


I loved this novel. I love most mystery novels, but this one was different than some of the others I've read recently. In Dying to Read, we're brought a whodunit murder merely pages in, and its ready to ensnare your attention until the very end. I was dying to read more. ;-)

I really liked the humor that Ms. McCourtney brought to Cate's character, and while Mitch didn't always feel realistic he brought smiles to my face. Another character to mention is Octavia, the cat. She had such a personality! She also brought a smile or two and I think she was an excellent addiction. 

I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery. :-)

Back of the Book:
Cate Kinkaid is just dipping her toe into the world of private investigating until one of the many resumes she has floating around lands her a real job. All she has to do is determine that a particular woman lives at a particular address. Simple, right? When the big and brooding house happens to contain a dead body, this routine PI job turns out to be anything but simple. Is Cate in over her head?
Readers will be hooked from the very first chapter of this fast-paced and witty romantic mystery from bestselling and award-winning author Lorena McCourtney

Interested? You can purchase your own copy here!

I won this book in a giveaway, no review required.

Book Review: Unlocked by Karen Kingsbury

My Review:
A heart-warming read from Karen Kingsbury! Alas, this is the first novel I've read from Miss Kingsbury and I have to confess, I'm impressed. With well crafted characters and an engaging story there isn't much more to ask for.

In Unlocked we get a glimpse of how destructive bullying is and how judging a person based solely on the external tells you nothing about the person on the inside. It also gave me an insight to autism and how it affects a family's life.

I really enjoyed Miss Kingsbury's novel and I look forward to reading more by her.

I give this book four stars.

Back of the Book:
Before You Take a Stand ... You Got to Take a Chance.
Holden Harris is an eighteen-year-old locked in a prison of autism. Despite his quiet ways and quirky behaviors, Holden is very happy and socially normal---on the inside, in a private world all his own. In reality, he is bullied at school by kids who only see that he is very different. Ella Reynolds is part of the 'in' crowd. A cheerleader and star of the high school drama production, her life seems perfect. When she catches Holden listening to her rehearse for the school play, she is drawn to him ... the way he is drawn to the music. Then, Ella makes a dramatic discovery---she and Holden were best friends as children. Frustrated by the way Holden is bullied, and horrified at the indifference of her peers, Ella decides to take a stand against the most privileged and popular kids at school. Including her boyfriend, Jake.Ella believes miracles can happen in the unlikeliest places, and that just maybe an entire community might celebrate from the sidelines. But will Holden's praying mother and the efforts of Ella and a cast of theater kids be enough to unlock the prison that contains Holden? This time, friendship, faith, and the power of a song must be strong enough to open the doors to the miracle Holden needs.

I borrowed this book from my local library, no review was required. 

Interested? You can purchase the book here! 

Writing Mondays: Getting back into it...

After a two-three week sabbatical on Civil War (I've been preoccupied with constructing my room down stairs) I am happy to announce I'm getting back with it this week!

However, as I opened Scrivener up this morning, I was quickly reminded of my other reason to take a sabbatical.

My outline.

Ugh, I hate them. I love the order they bring but I hate them. And to make things worse I'm stuck.

But it'll be okay. I'll fix it. It isn't the end of the world. It will take some time but in the end it will be worth it. :-) Lord willing, next week I might be over my "stuckness" and ready to proceed with my outline.

How do you handle coming back to a project?

What's Up for Next Week? :-)

Wow, it's been a great week! And I'm sure this upcoming week will be just as great. :)

Monday there will be a writing post of some kind, haven't decided on what yet so stay tuned.

Tuesday there will be a book review of Unlocked by Karen Kingsbury.

Here's the blurb: Before You Take a Stand ... You Got to Take a Chance.Holden Harris is an eighteen-year-old locked in a prison of autism. Despite his quiet ways and quirky behaviors, Holden is very happy and socially normal---on the inside, in a private world all his own. In reality, he is bullied at school by kids who only see that he is very different. Ella Reynolds is part of the 'in' crowd. A cheerleader and star of the high school drama production, her life seems perfect. When she catches Holden listening to her rehearse for the school play, she is drawn to him ... the way he is drawn to the music. Then, Ella makes a dramatic discovery---she and Holden were best friends as children. Frustrated by the way Holden is bullied, and horrified at the indifference of her peers, Ella decides to take a stand against the most privileged and popular kids at school. Including her boyfriend, Jake.Ella believes miracles can happen in the unlikeliest places, and that just maybe an entire community might celebrate from the sidelines. But will Holden's praying mother and the efforts of Ella and a cast of theater kids be enough to unlock the prison that contains Holden? This time, friendship, faith, and the power of a song must be strong enough to open the doors to the miracle Holden needs.

Thursday there will be a book review of Dying to Read by Lorena McCourtney.

Here's the blurb: Cate Kinkaid is just dipping her toe into the world of private investigating until one of the many resumes she has floating around lands her a real job. All she has to do is determine that a particular woman lives at a particular address. Simple, right? When the big and brooding house happens to contain a dead body, this routine PI job turns out to be anything but simple. Is Cate in over her head?
Readers will be hooked from the very first chapter of this fast-paced and witty romantic mystery from bestselling and award-winning author Lorena McCourtney

Have a great weekend!

Book Review: Like Moonlight at Low Tide by Nicole Quigley

My Review:
This book is a wonderful read that tapped into my imagination. I could see events play out in my mind's eye. I could feel everything the main character, Melissa, was going through. This book begged for my attention in such a way, that I couldn't put it down!

Ms. Quigley's characters were realistic, relatable, and well rounded. I enjoyed watching Missy and Josh's friendship grow and develop. There were also some moments I could relate with Missy, which made me appreciate the book more.

Another reason I'm so attached to this book is because it's set in Florida, which is where I grew up. Though, I didn't grow up on Anna Maria Island I did grow up near Tampa Bay. I moved away recently from my hometown, and this book gave me a happy at-home feeling that I've missed.

I'd like to note that to make this realistic, Ms. Quigley discussed some teens drinking, including the main character. There was also talk of drugs and overdosing. Nothing is explicit, but some things are implied. I don't disagree with Ms. Quigley's decision to include these things in her novel, because without them the story would seem too fake.

Right now, this book stands as one of my favorites. I highly recommend it to any teen girl.

Back of the Book:
For Missy Keiser, returning to Anna Maria Island, Florida, means two things: her mother made another poor decision with men, and Missy will have to reenter a world where she’s known as “Messy,” a social pariah who dared to have a crush on Sam King, the most popular boy in school.

But much has changed in the three years she’s been away. Missy’s next-door neighbor is no longer an elderly woman but Josh, an intriguing boy who seems genuinely interested in her. At school, she’s surprised to find few people remember who she once was. And any remaining taunts of Messy are silenced when Sam King gives her his nod of approval.

Just as things seem to be perfect, Josh’s sudden distance, her mother’s latest relationship implosion, and her brother’s strange behavior threaten to ruin it all. Missy is forced to decide between the boy she’s always wanted, a boy who is intent on trying to save her, and the brother she’s known all her life. And her decision could have consequences she can never undo.

I received this book from DJC Communications in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done.

Book Review: Aldo's Fantastical Movie Palace by Jonathan Friesen

My Review:
A fantastical and magical read! Aldo's Fantastical Movie Palace is perfect fit for those who enjoyed Narnia. Friesen takes you on a journey through Retinya, a spectacular place thought only fiction by Nick and Chloe.

I loved most of Friesen's characters, particularly Chloe, Nob, and Scout. Others may not agree with me, but I didn't really like Nick. It wasn't because of his character structure, he just wasn't all that likable to me. I pitied him greatly, at times, but he still didn't make it to my "favorites" list.

A highlight, for me, is the clear message Friesen presents in Aldo's: The past is important to who we are today. There are some situations that have left an impression on my own character and without them- who would I be?

To close, my last favorite thing to list is Friesen's humor. I loved it. I was chuckling and grinning more than once, and it made the book so much more enjoyable.

Back of the Book:
In the Darkness of this Theater, Anything Can Happen The family's broken-down theater has always been a safe place for Chloe. There, no one can see the scars that line her face---scars her inventor father accidentally caused, leaving even deeper wounds between them. In the darkness she meets Nick, a boy with his own hurts. While Nick isn't the most pleasant companion, a rocky friendship is formed over their love of films. Soon the two are working on a movie script about a fantastical world---one that suddenly comes alive on the screen. Chloe and Nick are transported into an adventure beyond what they ever imagined, filled with dragons, magical pools, and a sinister vapor that threatens to destroy everyone. But when tragedy strikes, Chloe must find the courage to step out of the shadows and find what she's always longed for.

Book Trailer:

 
Interested? You can purchase the book here!

I received this book from DJC Communications in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done.

What's up this week? (We have a winner!!)

And we have a winner!! Caitlyn S. you've won The Pursuit of Lucy Banning! :-D Congrats! I've sent you an email, you'll have two weeks to get back to me.

Moving forward, I want to kind of do a brief overview of what's happening this week since I didn't last weekend. Tomorrow (Tues.), will be a book review of Aldo's Fantastical Movie Palace.

Here's the blurb: In the Darkness of this Theater, Anything Can Happen The family's broken-down theater has always been a safe place for Chloe. There, no one can see the scars that line her face---scars her inventor father accidentally caused, leaving even deeper wounds between them. In the darkness she meets Nick, a boy with his own hurts. While Nick isn't the most pleasant companion, a rocky friendship is formed over their love of films. Soon the two are working on a movie script about a fantastical world---one that suddenly comes alive on the screen. Chloe and Nick are transported into an adventure beyond what they ever imagined, filled with dragons, magical pools, and a sinister vapor that threatens to destroy everyone. But when tragedy strikes, Chloe must find the courage to step out of the shadows and find what she's always longed for.

Wednesday I'll be doing a short little post in honor of my not-so-little-anymore sister. (It's her birthday!) 

Thursday there will be another review and this time the book is Like Moonlight at Low Tide. I can't wait to start reading this one today! 

Here's the blurb: For Missy Keiser, returning to Anna Maria Island, Florida, means two things: her mother made another poor decision with men, and Missy will have to reenter a world where she’s known as “Messy,” a social pariah who dared to have a crush on Sam King, the most popular boy in school.

But much has changed in the three years she’s been away. Missy’s next-door neighbor is no longer an elderly woman but Josh, an intriguing boy who seems genuinely interested in her. At school, she’s surprised to find few people remember who she once was. And any remaining taunts of Messy are silenced when Sam King gives her his nod of approval.

Just as things seem to be perfect, Josh’s sudden distance, her mother’s latest relationship implosion, and her brother’s strange behavior threaten to ruin it all. Missy is forced to decide between the boy she’s always wanted, a boy who is intent on trying to save her, and the brother she’s known all her life. And her decision could have consequences she can never undo.

There you have it! I will see you all again tomorrow. :) 

Book Review: The Blue Door by Christa Kinde

My Review:
This book was fascinating. I haven't read any fictional books about angels before, for personal reasons. While I understand the Bible doesn't say much about angels, I'm still sensitive with how far people take creative license. I think Kinde did well but there were some things I still was "iffy" on. 

Prissie Pomeroy is an ordinary fourteen year old in a large family. That is, until one day she sees someone no one else can. And this someone is an angel, an observer to be specific, and his name is Koji.

In this fictional world there are many different types of angels, something I heartily agree with. There are messengers, guardians, protectors, observers, caretakers, and so on. Not sure how accurate all these "titles" are, but Ms. Kinde made it seem very plausible. 

I didn't really like some aspects of Prissie. It seemed like she was acting and being treated like a child a few years younger than 14. I don't know, maybe all the fourteen year-olds I know are just more mature than she is. 

I also think Ms. Kinde missed out on a great opportunity to focus more on God than she did. It seemed me the focus was on the angels. Once again, this may just be my opinion. Other than what I mentioned I felt like the story was well written, and while I may not re-read this book I do look forward to reading it's sequel to see what happens next.

I give this book 3 stars. 

The Blue Door is set to release on Sept. 25th.

Back of the Book:
ZonderKidz launches an exciting supernatural series for kids 11 and up. The Blue Door, the first book in The Threshold Series, introduces Prissie Pomeroy, a teen who discovers she can see what others cannot: angels all around. Even more startling is the surprising secret she uncovers about people she thought she knew. As she wrestles with this unexpected ability she must come to grips with the spiritual battles surrounding her. Especially when she learns she received this gift because God has a unique role for her in his bigger plan. But if she's to fulfill it, she'll need faith like never before.This exciting debut by author Christa Kinde draws on the rapidly growing interest in angel stories, an emerging trend in teen and preteen supernatural novels. Boys and girls alike will appreciate her gifted storytelling that captures their imagination with things beyond human sight. And parents will appreciate the family-friendly tone and godly messages maintained throughout this intriguing tale of adventure and spiritual warfare.

I received this ARC from Zondervan's Good Teen Reads in return for an honest review of my opinions.

Labor Day Weekend Giveaway!

Hey everyone!

Yup, you guessed it! The surprise is Writings of Rosie's first ever giveaway! The featured book is Olivia Newport's The Pursuit of Lucy Banning. We'll start off this fun post with the back of the book and then continue on to my review and the giveaway! :D

Back of the Book:
Lucy Banning may live on the exclusive Prairie Avenue among Chicago's rich and famous, but her heart lies elsewhere. Expected to marry an up-and-coming banker from a respected family, Lucy fears she will be forced to abandon her charity work--and the classes she is secretly taking at the newly opened University of Chicago. When she meets an unconventional young architect who is working on plans for the upcoming 1893 World's Fair, Lucy imagines a life lived on her own terms. Can she break away from her family's expectations? And will she ever be loved for who she truly is?
Readers will love being swept away into a world of mansions, secrets, and romance as they follow Lucy through the streets of the Windy City during one of the most exciting times in the city's history. From opulent upper-class homes to the well-worn rooms of an orphanage, Olivia Newport breathes life and romance into the pages of history--and everyone is invited.


My Review:
I thoroughly enjoyed The Pursuit of Lucy Banning and I look forward to the sequel The Dilemma of Charlotte Farrow. I have a strong love for books that transport me back to late 1800s and early 1900s and this book, if anything, encouraged my affection. :-)

Lucy Banning is a woman who is beginning to want more than what life is offering her. She wants to be a New Woman and go to a university, get a degree, help out more at orphanages, and so forth. All things that her mother and father disapprove of.

I found this book such an easy read. It captured and held my attention, keeping me turning pages until the last. I could relate to Lucy, as well as Charlotte, a side character, and appreciate how difficult it must have been to be betrothed all one's life.

Ms. Newport allowed into her delightful read mystery and a dash of romance making me like it all the more.

I give this book four stars.

Now onto the giveaway bit! Just follow the instructions on the widget. :-)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is only open to U.S. residents-- sorry!