Baby Bible Board Books 4 BOOKS 4 WINNERS Giveaway

Here is the review I did of these fantastic books.
http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/04/baby-bible-board-books-by-edward-sarah.html

Aimed at children aged 1-3, these four books teach essential stories of Jesus with delightful illustrations and simple, clear text. Each story also ends with a simple lesson to help your young soul love Jesus.



The authors have agreed to giveaway these four books. I thought it would be an excellent idea to have four winners to each get one book. All of the books are wonderful and if you love the one you win you can order the other three.

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
~Be or become a networked blog follower +1

YOU HAVE TO LET ME KNOW IF YOU DID ANY OF THE EXTRA ENTRIES

Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org. ENTRY DEADLINE May 14, 2011

A Heart Most Worthy by Siri Mitchell*A Review*

ABOUT A HEART MOST WORTHY

Each day Julietta, Annamaria, and Luciana enter the world of the upper class, working on society's finest clothing at Madame Fortier's elite gown shop. Yet the three beauties long to break free of their obligations and embrace the American dream--and their chance for love. But the ways of the heart are difficult to discern at times, and as their destinies intertwine, each girl harbors a secret, wondering if she will be found worthy of the love she seeks.

Paperback: 379 pages
Publisher: Bethany House (March 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780764207952
ISBN-13: 978-0764207952
ASIN: 0764207954
Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1.2 inches
Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

When I'm listening to a speaker and I'm taking notes, chances are, I've just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If I'm nodding my head in response to a really profound statement, I'm probably thinking, 'Yes. Right. That's exactly what my character needs to hear.'
When I'm editing my manuscripts, I laugh at the funny parts. And I cry at the sad parts.
Sometimes I even talk to my characters. 'Okay, Joe. Talk to me. Tell me what you're thinking here.' And yes, the characters answer me. I actually hear them talking in my head.
Half the time, I think I'm an okay writer. The other half, I'm tempted to take a magnet to the hard drive.
The easy part is writing. The hardest part is editing. The worst part is wondering if the books are going to sell.
I have plenty of ideas for books; the thing I lack is the time to write them. I write by the word. Other writers write by the page. However you want to tally it, 85,000 words is a lot of pages.
In the world of writing I have done nothing right. I wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before I signed with a publisher. And then I had to write a fifth book so that they could publish it. In the process, I saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry's than I care to admit. I vowed never to write another word again. Ever. I went on writing strikes and I even stooped to threatening my manuscripts with the shredder.
However. Here I am, nine books into the process, writing my tenth!
Learn more about me on the web at http://sirimitchell.com

MY REVIEW
This is the second book I’ve read of Siri Mitchell's. I love the way it ended. A Heart Most Worthy had a number of different storylines and it was really easy for me to follow along. . It was set in Madame Fortier's dress shop in 1918 Boston, with her three assistants - Italian immigrants. All four of these ladies with men in each of their lives made it lots to keep up with, but really moved the story along. You will find many different things in this book. Sadness, death, poverty, friends, joy, happiness and always family. I love how close the families are.
  In A Heart Most Worthy the narrator sometimes speaks directly to the reader, the omniscient POV. I really don’t like this POV. A lot of people through find this quite interesting.
The cover of this book is absolutely beautiful, the front and back both. So many interesting things happen in this dress shop and out in the world for these special ladies. I would recommend this book if you don’t mind the omniscient POV. It is a quick, interesting read.

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Thank you to Bethany House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Baby Bible Board Books by Edward & Sarah Bolme A Review

Aimed at children aged 1-3, these four books teach essential stories of Jesus with delightful illustrations and simple, clear text. Each story also ends with a simple lesson to help your young soul love Jesus.

Authors: Edward and Sarah Bolme

Illustrator: Tim Gillette

ISBN: 0-9725546-4-5

ISBN-13: 978-0-9725546-4-5

Contents: Set of 4 board books

Each book measures 5" x 5"

Each story is twenty pages long, with an average of six words per two-page spread. The books feature bold, colorful illustrations and each ends with a simple faith lesson for the child to take to heart. Designed for infants and preschoolers.

Sarah Bolme is the Director of Christian Small Publishers Association (www.christianpublishers.net), the owner of Crest Publications, and the author of 7 books including the award-winning Your Guide to Marketing Books in the Christian Marketplace (www.marketingchristianbooks.com)and numerous articles.

A clinical social worker by education and experience, Sarah stumbled into the world of publishing after her two self-help books were published by a small publisher. Sarah and her husband, a fiction author, then collaborated on a set of board books for infants and toddlers after the birth of their children. After much thought and research, they decided to publish the project themselves. This decision led to the creation of Crest Publications and Sarah's journey into marketing.

Navigating the Christian marketplace began as a rather solitary learning experience for Sarah as no guide books or associations were available for marketing in this unique marketplace. After meeting and dialoging with other small and self-publishers marketing books in the Christian marketplace, it became clear that an organization was needed to provide assistance and information to new and emerging publishers. Christian Small Publishers Association (CSPA) was founded in January 2004 with Sarah Bolme as Director.

Sarah's passion is educating others to help them improve their situation whether that is helping them get unstuck in their lives through counseling, learning and applying Biblical truths, or marketing their books into the Christian marketplace.

==================================================

Edward Bolme
Ed got his start in the entertainment industry back in college as a political and sports cartoonist. He began his professional writing career with the publication of his first game module in 1988. Since then he has worked on fourteen different role-playing games and twelve different collectible game...

Skills:

Branding and identity Project management Licensee / licensor relations Writing, editing, layout, publication Tutorials and demonstrations Comparative root beer analysis

Experience:

Director of Product Development, World Leaderz (Privately Held; Entertainment industry), November 2008 - Present

Created product specifications, collectability goals, and thematic concepts for trading cards sets. Designed detailed descriptions of inserts and inclusions, assisted with text, art, and website direc...

Author, Editor, & Designer, USA Self Employed (Writing and Editing industry), 1985 - Present, (24 years
More info at:http://comfibook.com/n/Edward+Bolme



MY REVIEW

I just love these four Baby Bible Board Books. The colors are delightful and just the right amount of words on each page. My 13 month old grandson doesn’t like to sit still for a minute, but he didn’t move as I read all four books to him. Another reasons I like these books is because the past and present are in each book. The people wear robes and sandals, but you will also see a football, thermometers and jump ropes. I also really like that at the end of the story you will see a Bible verse to reinforce the story. Another thing these books have that children love and it’s animals. Each story has many cute animals to provide another thing for your child to love.

The books are wipe able and very strong and sturdy, just right for little hands. It’s never to early to teach your children about the Bible and these books have some of the most favorite stories in the Bible. They are Jesus Stops a Storm, Jesus Heals a Little Girl, Jesus Feeds the People and Jesus Helps a Blind Man.

I highly recommend these four books that would be a prefect gift for your children, grandchildren or friends. What is so fantastic about them is you will be able to use, read them for years.

http://www.christianpublishers.net/crest/books.htm

Order from Crest publications

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Thank you to the author for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

WINNER of Grow Old With Me by Melinda Evaul

Go to Karen K for winning Grow Old With Me by Melinda Evaul!

We are very happy for you.

This is a fantastic book.

Thanks to everyone for commenting on my blog.

I really appreciate you!!!!!!!!

Come back often.

More giveaways coming soon.

Blessings,



Tomorrow's Garden by Amanda Cabot*A review

ABOUT TOMORROW'S GARDEN As a seed awaits the spring sunshine, so one young woman hopes for a brighter tomorrow Harriet Kirk is certain that becoming the new schoolteacher in Ladreville, Texas, is just what she needs--a chance to put the past behind her and give her younger siblings a brighter tomorrow. What she didn't count on was the presence of handsome former Texas Ranger Lawrence Wood--or the way he affects her fragile heart. But can Harriet and Lawrence ever truly conquer the past in order to find happiness? Book 3 in the Texas Dreams series, Tomorrow's Garden is a powerful story of overcoming the odds and grabbing hold of happiness.

 Price: $14.99
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3326-1
ISBN-10: 0-8007-3326-6
Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.5
Number of pages: 400
Carton Quantity: 40
Publication Date: Apr. 11
Formats: Paperback
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Amanda Cabot is an accomplished author under various pen names and a popular speaker. The author of Paper Roses and Scattered Petals, she is also a charter member of Romance Writers of America, the co-founder of its New Jersey chapter, a member of the ACFW, and an avid traveler. She lives in Wyoming.





 MY REVIEW This is the first book I’ve read of Amanda Cabot’s and I really enjoyed it. Tomorrow’s Garden is the third book in the Texas Dreams series, but can also be read as a stand alone book. Love the cover and title. Harriet takes her five younger siblings and moves to a different town so they all can have a fresh start without any mistakes, but did she do the right thing? Will Lawrence an ex Texas Ranger, now sheriff and mayor help or hinder Harriet in her quest. I love how each of the children begin to change and bloom in this new town. So take longer to learn lessons and some lessons are very hard. The main characters Harriet and Lawrence are fantastic, but there are so many more wonderful, caring people in this small town. A book could be written on each one. This is another book that has a lot of heartbreak, loss, pain, but also the wonderful love, happiness and peace of a good family and superb friends. It was a gentle, satisfying read that would be nice to read on a rainy afternoon or right before sleep.

 Order from Revell

 Order from Amazon

 “Available April 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

I received my free copy from Donna Hausler from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Great Giveaway on another site!!!!

Go to The Children's Book Review site and sign up to win Birthday Giveaway: Win $300+ Worth of Children’s Books http://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/weblog/2011/03/3rd-birthday-giveaway-win-300-worth-of-childrens-books.html/comment-page-2#comment-6784

WINNER of Rebecca St. James CD-I Will Praise You

Go to Becky @ ohmygoshbeck! She won the CD of Rebecca St. James I Will Praise You! We are happy for you and know you will love the CD. Thanks to all who commented on my blog. More giveaways coming soon. Blessings,

The Brotherhood by Jerry B. Jenkins*A review

ABOUT THE BROTHERHOOD

Boone Drake has it made. He’s a young cop rising rapidly through the ranks of the Chicago Police Department. He has a beautiful wife and a young son, a nice starter house, a great partner, and a career plan that should land him in the Organized Crime Division within five years. Everything is going right. Until everything goes horribly, terribly wrong. His personal life destroyed and his career and future in jeopardy, Boone buries himself in guilt and bitterness as his life spirals out of control. But when he comes face-to-face with the most vicious gang leader Chicago has seen in decades, he begins to realize that God is a God of second chances and can change the hardest heart . . . and forgive the worst of crimes. A thought-provoking police thriller from New York Times best-selling author Jerry B. Jenkins.

Paperback: 384 pages

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (January 24, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1414309228

ISBN-13: 978-1414309224

Product Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.9 x 1.2 inches

Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Jerry B. Jenkins, former vice president for publishing and currently writer-at-large for the Moody Bible Institute of Chicago, is the author of more than 160 books, including the 63,000,000-selling Left Behind series. Also the former editor of Moody Magazine, Dr. Jenkins's writing has appeared in Time, Reader's Digest, Parade, Guideposts, and dozens of Christian periodicals. Jerry and Dr. Tim LaHaye were profiled in a May 24, 2004 cover story in Newsweek magazine entitled "The New Prophets of Revelation." Jerry's non-fiction books include as-told-to biographies with Hank Aaron, Orel Hershiser, Walter Payton, Nolan Ryan, and many others. Jenkins also assisted Dr. Billy Graham with his memoirs, Just As I Am, also a New York Times bestseller. Jerry owns Jenkins Entertainment, a filmmaking company in Los Angeles, and also the Christian Writers Guild, which aims to train tomorrow's professional Christian writers and has nearly 2,000 members worldwide. www.JerryJenkins.com www.Jenkins-Entertainment.com http://www.christianwritersguild.com/

MY REVIEW

I love books about police/suspenseful genres and The Brotherhood is just that and so much more. This book takes place in Chicago and mostly within the Chicago Police Department. I really liked the main character Boone Drake. The Brotherhood tells about his life growing up and how his life right now is perfect with family, home and job he loves dearly, but things never stay the same. I was really drawn in to the fun, joy, heartbreak, sadness, loss, forgiveness and love. Boone goes on a rollercoaster of emotions and you find out that no one emotion last forever, but they change as you change. How you grow and how situations come and go in your life. One of my favorite parts of this book is when Boone finally gets the job in the Organized Crime Division that he has always wanted and has to work with the most vicious gang leader. It’s just an amazing book that is hard to put down. I love the book cover and the title. They fit perfectly with the story inside. You won’t be bored for a second while reading The Brotherhood. I highly recommend The Brotherhood for a fast, exciting read from first sentence to the end.

Order from

">Amazon

Author Interview*Tessa Afshar*Book Giveaway

A fantastic book that I love. Here is my review link http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/03/pearl-in-sand-by-tessa-afshar-review.html Welcome and Greetings Tessa! Thank you for having me on your blog, Trinity Rose. It’s a pleasure being here with you. How long did you write before you were published? I can’t answer this question with perfect accuracy, but I think I was contracted a little over two years after I started the first chapter of Pearl in the Sand, and the book came out eight months after that—a total of three years. It’s the only time as a writer I’m ever going to be spoilt with such an expanse of time. After the first book, the next ones have to be researched, written and edited within a matter of months! Tell us about Pearl in the Sand, the featured book Pearl is based on the story of Rahab, the Canaanite harlot who is famous for having saved Israel’s spies from death. I wrote this story because I love Rahab. A Canaanite harlot actually married one of the leaders of Judah—a man from one of the most distinguished families of Israel. As if this marriage was not in itself utterly astounding, the birth of her son placed Rahab in the lineage of Jesus. Think about that: some of the DNA of this former harlot swam in Jesus’ blood stream! Is there any person who has been a strong influence in your writing journey? I work with Moody Publishing and was privileged to have Paul Santhouse, now Director of Acqusitions, as my editor. Alongside him, I worked with Duane Sherman who helped me with publicity. I wasn’t even on Facebook when I signed my contract, so Duane had to teach me a lot. Both men were incredibly patient and encouraging teachers. I couldn’t ask for better. What message do you want to be clear to your readers? That our profound worth is rooted in the love of our Heavenly Father; a love that never gives up on us. What are some of your likes and dislikes? Your hobbies, interests? Where do you like to vacation? Send me anywhere with a calm, blue ocean, palm trees, warm weather, throw in lots of good books, and my closest friends, and I might never come back. Add some delicious food, and well, now you have me drooling. As to what I don’t like, lack of sleep and physical pain would be at the top of my list. Tell us a little-known fact about yourself that readers may not know. I’m only five feet tall, and I have to stand on tiptoes to reach the higher shelves in my kitchen. How do you spend your writing days? Do you set goals to reach a certain number of words per day? Can you give us a general idea of how long it takes you to write a novel? My novels take about a year, because my genre is historical and good research is time-consuming. I do try to set goals for a certain word count, but I don’t always meet them. What are you currently reading? The Mountains Bow Down by Sibella Giorello. She’s a pleasure to read. Do you grow flowers or vegetables? What are your favorite flowers? I grow flowers and herbs in my tiny boarder garden. I cannot possibly choose a favorite flower. There are so many ravishing ones. What are you writing now? The novel I am currently working on is based on a fictional character named Sarah who is the Senior Scribe to the queen of Persia. She is a genius who doesn’t know when to keep her mouth shut, which continuously gets her into trouble. She solves plots, marries a man who hates her, and finds out that there’s more to life than being good at your job. And by the way, she is Nehemiah’s second cousin. How can readers find you on the Internet? I would love for you to come and visit me on my author page on Facebook. Here is the address: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tessa-Afshar/337761827820?ref=ts Or you can join me on my website at: Tessaafshar.com And thanks for spending this time with us, Tessa. We wish you much success. Thank you so much. I enjoyed your fun questions. Tessa Afshar is offering her book Pearl in the Sand to one of you followers. Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address. Here are the ways to get extra entries: ~Be or become a follower +1 ~Be or become an email subscriber +1 ~Be or become a networked blog follower +1 Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org. ENTRY DEADLINE April 30, 2011

Author Interview*Dan Walsh*book giveaway

The Deepest Waters is one of my favorite books of the year. Here is the link to my review http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/04/deepest-waters-by-dan-walsha-review.html

I really urge you to buy this book you won’t be sorry.

Welcome Dan. So glad to have you back with us!

Glad to be with you and your readers again.

Tell us about “The Deepest Waters," the featured book.

Here’s a nice one-paragraph description the folks at Revell came up with:

For John and Laura Foster, what began as a fairytale honeymoon in 1857 aboard the steamship SS Vandervere soon becomes a nightmare. A terrible hurricane strikes and the grand ship is lost in the murky depths of the Atlantic. Laura is rescued by a small ship sailing by, but there’s only room for the women and children. Believing her John is lost but still daring to hope for a miracle, Laura must face the possibility of life alone in New York City with a family she has never met. The Deepest Waters tells an epic story of hope, faith, and love through an intimate lens. Inspired by real events.

Can you tell us how many books you have in print in the Christian market?

The Deepest Waters is my 3rd novel. My 4th is called “Remembering Christmas” and will be out in September. I’ve finished my 5th for Revell, which is due out next spring.

Is there a particular book among those you've written that you would especially recommend to our readers? If so, why?

Yes, this one. But it’s a challenging question. I like them all (like asking which of your kids is your favorite). But The Deepest Waters is a stand-alone. If they like it, I think they’d also like my first two, which go together.

The Christian fiction field has rapidly expanded over the past few years. What would you like to see happen in this field in the years to come?

Honestly, I’m not sure. In some ways, I feel like I’m part of this rapidly expanding thing. I’m very grateful for it, and I’ve been doing my best to listen, learn and try to understand the business side of publishing. But even the seasoned vets I’ve talked to seem unsure of where things are going. I don’t mean to say the future looks gloomy. If anything, as you’ve said, things are expanding. But it’s hard to paint something that won’t sit still.

How can readers and fans encourage you as you pursue what is sometimes a challenging and solitary job?

Almost daily I receive emails and FB messages from readers and fans. Many of them affect me deeply, precisely because they are SO encouraging. I love to hear how something I’ve written has stirred someone’s heart. So, my answer would be…keep expressing these kinds of things to the authors who bless you. It really is a way of imparting God’s grace to them. Encouragement means “to breathe courage into.” That’s certainly the affect it has on me.

Many writers are also avid readers. Do you have any favorite authors?

If so, could you name a few?

Jim Rubart, Sarah Sundin, Jason Wright, Richard Paul Evans, Athol Dickson (have read his last three). Jeff Shaara would be another (writes historical fiction, often with a military edge).

If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take?

The Bible, Spurgeon’s Morning & Evening, Jeff Shaara’s Glorious Cause and Rise to Rebellion (two books about the Birth of our nation, written incredibly well) and Band of Brothers, by Steven Ambrose (hey, I’m a guy).

If you had 48 hours to hang out with any TWO people (besides Jesus), alive or dead in the history of the world who would you hang out with and what would you do?

Maybe Ronald Reagan and Winston Churchill. I’d want to be alone, no cameras or recorders. I’d want to walk with Reagan around his ranch (couldn’t ride horses for more than an hour before my rear end would ache), and sit with Churchill at Chartwell, his country estate, as he smoked cigars and painted. I’d just want to ask them questions and let them tell me stories, one right after the other.

What three things are you most thankful for in your life?

1. The nearness of God (and that His mercies are new every morning)

2. The love of my wife

3. That my adult children like hanging out with me

4. My new grandson (sorry, I needed four).

What is the most fun thing you have ever done?

On our 25th wedding anniversary (now 9 years ago), my wife and I went on a 7 day cruise. We’ve been on a number of nice vacations, even some cruises, but this was the only 7-day period in the entirety of my life where every moment of every day, from morning till night, was filled with joy, and not a single thing went wrong. It was a gift from God.

What are you writing now?

I’m finishing up a book I’m writing for Guideposts, part of a new series called Miracles of Marble Cove. I’m working with a team of authors, including Melody Carlson and Leslie Gould. In May, I’ll begin writing my 6th novel for Revell (they’ve just signed me to write 3 more).

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Probably the easiest thing is to go to my website. At the bottom of my homepage are buttons for Twitter, Facebook and my Blog. It’s www.danwalshbooks.com

Dan doesn’t have any books of The Deepest Waters left to give out, but has graciously agreed to give away his book The Homecoming, which is also a fantastic book. Here is my review link on The Homecoming. http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2010/06/revell-blog-tour-homecoming-by-dan.html

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:

~Be or become a follower +1

~Be or become an email subscriber +1

~Be or become a networked blog follower +1

Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org. ENTRY DEADLINE April 28, 2011

Winner of The Crossmaker

go to the winner of the DVD The Crossmaker grannyvon You will love this DVD Thanks to everyone for commenting. More giveaways going up today!

My Father at 100 by Ron Reagan*A Review

ABOUT MY FATHER AT 100 February 6, 2011, is the one hundredth anniversary of Ronald Reagan's birth. To mark the occasion, Ron Reagan has written My Father at 100, an intimate look at the life of his father-one of the most popular presidents in American history-told from the perspective of someone who knew Ronald Reagan better than any adviser, friend, or colleague. As he grew up under his father's watchful gaze, he observed the very qualities that made the future president a powerful leader. Yet for all of their shared experiences of horseback rides and touch football games, there was much that Ron never knew about his father's past, and in My Father at 100, he sets out to understand this beloved, if often enigmatic, figure who turned his early tribulations into a stunning political career. Since his death in 2004, President Reagan has been a galvanizing force that personifies the values of an older America and represents an important era in national history. Ron Reagan traces the sources of these values in his father's early years and offers a heartfelt portrait of a man and his country-and his personal memories of the president he knew as "Dad." Hardcover: 240 pages Publisher: Viking Adult; First Edition edition (January 18, 2011) Language: English ISBN-10: 0670022594 ISBN-13: 978-0670022595 Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.3 x 1.2 inches Shipping Weight: 1 pounds ABOUT THE AUTHOR The son of President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan. Formerly a dancer with the Joffrey Ballet, he has been a political commentator and cohost of MSNBC’s Connected: Coast to Coast, as well as host of The Ron Reagan Show on Air America Radio. He has written for numerous magazines, including Newsweek, Esquire and The New Yorker. He lives in Seattle with his wife, Doria. MY REVIEW The book My Father at 100 by Ron Reagan was an O.K. book. There is a lot of history about Ronald Reagan and his family. Ron said his father was loving and caring, but hard to get to know. The history of this book is correct, but I feel Ron didn’t really know and appreciate the President fully. A lot of this book was really boring and I didn’t care for it. I did truly enjoy the pictures of the Reagan family and learning about the days of President Reagan’s family. This book wasn’t a very good tribute to President Reagan. Ron Reagan shouldn’t have talked bad about his father after he was gone. So I don’t recommend this book, but if you want to read it borrow it. Order from Amazon Thanks to Viking / Penguin for the review copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

The Deepest Waters by Dan Walsh*A review

ABOUT THE DEEPEST WATERS

For John and Laura Foster, what began as a fairytale honeymoon in 1857 aboard the steamship SS Vandervere soon becomes a nightmare. A terrible hurricane strikes and the grand ship is lost in the murky depths of the Atlantic. Laura is rescued by a small ship sailing by, but there's only room for the women and children. Believing her John is lost but still daring to hope for a miracle, Laura must face the possibility of life alone in New York City with a family she has never met. The Deepest Waters is an epic story of hope, faith, and love through an intimate lens. Inspired by a true story.

Paperback: 300 pages

Publisher: Revell (April 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 9780800719807

ISBN-13: 978-0800719807

ASIN: 0800719808

Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.8 inches

Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I was born in Philadelphia in 1957 (guys don't care if you know) to a mostly blue-collar, hard-working Irish family. My Dad was the first person on either side of the family to earn a college degree. It took him nine years, working during the day, going to college at night, using the GI Bill from his war days in Korea. In the mid-sixties, General Electric hired him as an engineer for the Apollo space program. We packed up and moved to Florida, which is really where I grew up. I spent my childhood years playing basketball and surfing. In the spring of my senior year in high school I met the woman who would become my wife, Cindi. We dated for a brief period. I asked her to marry me and, to my great surprise, she said yes. We were married near the end of 1976. We have two children, now grown. The desire to write novels first began in high school. But I didn't have the time to pursue this passion until 2007. To find out more, visit my website at http://www.danwalshbooks.com/

MY REVIEW

The Deepest Waters by Dan Walsh is a book you will love to read and reread. This book was inspired by a true story and I found it fascinating. I really like books written around a true story. There’s something about truth and fiction together that really makes great reading. I like the tenderness, compassion and love of God the two main characters have. Each chapter is full of action, suspense and tender feelings. The Deepest Waters is not only one story, but several in one book. This is the third book Dan Walsh has written and in my opinion it is his best yet. The Deepest Waters is about a shipwreck in the 1800’s with chaos and trouble, and also the heartbreaking parting of newlyweds (John and Laura.) The ship went down because of a hurricane, where only one hundred three women and children were rescued. Four hundred of the men had to remain on the injured ship On the Cutlass where the women and children were rescued a slave, Micah, befriended Laura. In this story you will see miracle after miracle. What makes this even more intriguing is that John never told his family he was married or bringing his wife back and John never got along with them. So Laura has to face this all alone, but she has God and isn’t alone. Another thing I really liked is the note from the author that told of all of the true things that did happen and it was amazing. So yes, I highly recommend this book and will keep it for my private collection. I really love such a tender, tear jerking story. Very sweet read.

Order from Revell

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I received my free copy from Donna Hausler from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Author Interview~Melinda Evau~BOOK GIVEAWAYl

I love this book. Here is my review link if you would like to see. http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/03/grow-old-with-me-by-melinda-evaula.html

Melinda, thanks for taking the time to visit us today! I appreciate you answering these few questions. It will be fun to get to know you better. Tell us a little about yourself. Thank you for asking me to be a special guest today, Wanda. It’s an honor to be here. Born and raised in NC, I’m a transplant to TN. I’m a pastor’s wife, mother of two, and Mimi to my three grandchildren. I work two days/month as a nurse in a doctor’s office. I’m a certified water aerobic instructor. When I add writer to that list, I’d say I wear far too many hats for the allotted hours in a day.

How long did you write before you were published? I began writing about 6 years ago when my mother needed full-time care and moved in with us. Her soap operas and game shows didn’t interest me. Writing became a pastime and a way to share my Christianity. After my mother’s death, I continued to write. Several of my articles won awards and found publishing homes. I sought placement for two of my four novels. It’s an arduous task to find an agent or publisher. After much prayer and thought, I opted to form my own publishing company, Winding Road Ink, and have Snowfall Press print Grow Old With Me. I knew there was a market for the book among quilters, the areas around Love Valley, and people who support agri-tourism along the quilt barn trails. (If quilt barns leaves you clueless, visit my website and photo galleries after you read the rest of this post.)

Tell us about “Grow Old With Me,” the featured book. Grow Old With Me Novel # 1 in the Quilt Trail Series A modern day Beauty and the Beast meet in their fifties when a disfigured carpenter becomes a long-term guest at a bed and breakfast in the western-style tourist town of Love Valley, NC. Benjamin Pruitt plans to repair the town’s buildings before retiring to a solitary life. Sarah Campbell longs for freedom since her long task as caregiver has ended. Can Benjamin and Sarah piece the tattered remnants of their lives into a beautiful design to warm their waning years? Benjamin and Sarah are middle-aged and they’ve never married. They’re damaged, hurting people who find comfort, companionship, and love. My book asks some tough questions about faith and the rough things people face in life. It’s set in the real town of Love Valley, NC. Most descriptions are true to the town. I have pictures of Love Valley on my website. My characters and some structural details are fiction. Mosey Inn doesn’t exist. The house on the cover is miles from Love Valley. I found the Unicoi County Heritage Museum in Erwin, TN while following a quilt trail. I pulled into the drive and saw the house I’d seen in my mind while writing about Sarah’s B&B.

Is there any person who has been a strong influence in your writing journey? My husband believed in me and encouraged me to devote time to writing. We often plot or work on a scene together. He’s my final proofreader. My critique partner, Lynn Dean, saw me through many edits and pushed me to write the best book possible. She helped my husband create the beautiful cover design and drew the interior quilt graphics for “Grow Old With Me.” I wouldn’t be writing blog interviews without these two special people God placed in my life.

What message do you want to be clear to your readers? I love writing about flawed characters that need God’s healing touch. My goal is to show readers a personal relationship with Christ. I want to strengthen their faith as they enjoy a good book. God can reach someone through a work of fiction who would never open a Bible.

What are some of your likes and dislikes? I love ice cream in any flavor. Well, vanilla needs some sort of chocolate topping. Add a good cup of coffee to that and I’m a happy lady. I hate shopping. No fun to look when you can’t afford to buy or find things that fit. Shoe shopping is the worst. I have a closet full and they all hurt my feet or my back.

Your hobbies, interests? Reading is a favorite pastime but it’s hard to find the time in my schedule. The swimming pool is my second home. I either teach or take a water aerobics class 3-4 days/week.

Where do you like to vacation? I love cruises. My husband and I have enjoyed three trips to the Caribbean. Every island is unique. I enjoy hiking and snorkeling. I love to visit the remote areas of an island instead of the tourist sights. Remember, I’m not a shopper. We’ve traveled the US extensively, mostly in a tent or a camper. I hope to take my grandchildren on a grand tour of the US some day.

Tell us a little-known fact about yourself that readers may not know. I sailed on the USS Nimitz from Hawaii to San Diego. They Navy sent roughly 1000 crewmembers home by plane. Selected parents and children boarded in Hawaii to travel the last leg with their sailor. I’ll never forget that special trip home with my son. It was a once in a lifetime experience.

How do you spend your writing days? Mornings are devoted to the pool, so I write during the afternoon and evenings. I’m in the research phase for my next book. It’s the time where I get to know my characters, learn about their spiritual needs, and form the plot in my head. It’s hard for me to rough draft. Most of my book is in my mind before I begin the writing phase. I’m a semi-pantser but detailed character sketches are vital.

Do you set goals to reach a certain number of words per day? I try to set a goal but my “to do” list often gets in the way. The hard part for me is marketing and writing at the same time. Currently marketing outweighs writing.

Can you give us a general idea of how long it takes you to write a novel? “Grow Old With Me” took a year of serious writing time. I did little else besides my water exercises. Polishing it and formatting the book for print took several more months. I’ve allotted six months to promote the book before I jump into full-time writing again. By then, I should have a good reader base and know my new characters fairly well. My goal is to release the next novel around Christmas of 2011. I learned things writing “Grow Old With Me” that should speed along the writing process on this next book.

What are you currently reading? At this time, I’m between books. Ronie Kendig’s “Digitalis” is next on my list. Recent reads include Jo Ann Durgin’s “Awakening” and Penny Zeller’s “McKenzie” and “Kaydie.” Earlier in the month I read Irene Hannon’s “Against All Odds” and Richard Mabry’s “Code Blue.” I read a variety of genres but suspense or thrillers are my favorites.

Do you grow flowers or vegetables? My thumb is not green. I had a vegetable garden when my children were young. We actually harvested a great crop.

What are your favorite flowers? I love daffodils. They’re so bright and cheerful after a long winter. My mom begged and harvested from every flowerbed in town so I could have daffodils in the church for my March wedding. That was 33 years ago, by the way.

What are you writing now? My next book will feature a quilt barn painter and a Christmas tree grower. They’re people with troubled pasts and family situations that need mending. This novel will continue the quilt theme as the painter and tree grower struggle to overcome the old patterns of life with new ones.

How can readers find you on the Internet? My website is http://www.melindaevaul.com I send a quarterly newsletter to those who subscribe. I have a blog at the same location. Readers can order a paperback copy of “Grow Old With Me” from my website. It’s on Amazon as an e-book. I’ll format it for Nook and other e-readers next month. I’ll eventually place the paperback on other Internet sites. I’m doing a book signing tour during April and May. I’ll be in seven different towns. Those events are on my Facebook page Melinda Evaul-Author and on my website. If you live nearby one of these locations, drop by and say hello.

And thanks for spending this time with us, Melinda. We wish you much success. Thank you, Wanda. It was a pleasure to be here. Thank you for promoting my novel. I’ll stop by to make comments and see who wins the giveaway copy.

Melinda is offering her book Grow Old With Me to one of you.

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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org. ENTRY DEADLINE April 18, 2011

The Bride Collector by Ted Dekker*A Review

ABOUT THE BRIDE COLLECTOR

FBI Special agent Brad Raines is facing his toughest case yet. A Denver serial killer has killed four beautiful young women, leaving a bridal veil at each crime scene, and he's picking up his pace. Unable to crack the case, Raines appeals for help from a most unusual source: residents of the Center for Wellness and Intelligence, a private psychiatric institution for mentally ill individuals whose are extraordinarily gifted. It's there that he meets Paradise, a young woman who witnessed her father murder her family and barely escaped his hand. Diagnosed with schizophrenia, Paradise may also have an extrasensory gift: the ability to experience the final moments of a person's life when she touches the dead body. In a desperate attempt to find the killer, Raines enlists Paradise's help. In an effort to win her trust, he befriends this strange young woman and begins to see in her qualities that most 'sane people' sorely lack. Gradually, he starts to question whether sanity resides outside the hospital walls...or inside. As the Bride Collector picks up the pace-and volume-of his gruesome crucifixions, the case becomes even more personal to Raines when his friend and colleague, a beautiful young forensic psychologist, becomes the Bride Collector's next target. The FBI believes that the killer plans to murder seven women. Can Paradise help before it's too late?

Mass Market Paperback: 480 pages

Publisher: Center Street;

Reprint edition (March 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1599953722

ISBN-13: 978-1599953724

Product Dimensions: 4.2 x 1 x 7

inches Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dekker was born to missionaries and grew up among cannibals of Indonesia, and his peculiar upbringing gives him a unique perspective outside the cultural bubble, allowing him the freedom to share provocative insights in his fiction. After leaving Indonesia, Dekker graduated from a multi-cultural high school and took up permanent residence in the United States, earning his B.A. in philosophy and religion, and then went into business. In the early nineties, Dekker decided to pursue his desire to write fiction, selling his company, moving his family to the mountains of western Colorado, and writing full-time. Two years and three books later his first novel, a supernatural thriller called Heaven's Wager, was published. Dekker proceeded to write 6 more supernatural thrillers, rising to the top of many bestsellers lists and earning himself critical acclaim and legions of fans. "Thr3e" heralded his launch into mainstream fiction and was followed by "Obsessed," "Skin," "Adam," and "BoneMan's Daughters," all of which hit the New York Times bestseller list. Ted Dekker's fans are comprised of readers of all ages, backgrounds, and belief systems who love his compulsively readable stories, authentic characters, and universal and relatable themes that he explores from a unique point of view. He resides in Austin, Texas with his wife and children. You can find him at Teddekker.com and Facebook.com/teddekker.

MY REVIEW

With each book I read of Ted Dekker’s I can see more and more why he is always on the New York Times bestsellers list. The Bride Collector is a fantastic, adrenaline rushing book filled with so many twists and turns you won’t know what is coming next.

I’m usually fairly good at guessing what is coming up in a book, but I could never do that with a Ted Dekker book. He comes up with the strangest kind of murder methods and really weird criminals, but I love his stories.

I think everyone will relate to Paradise-the main woman character. She is in the private home for the mental ill and she doesn’t trust any man because of her past, but she gets to know Brad the FBI agent and you will see how they become friends.

Some parts of this book were really shocking to me, but I love that kind of story. Many surprises and they aren’t all good.

Ted is very good at describing scenes and people, which is another reason this book is so good. I like how Ted brings all of the people together and how it ends.

The Bride Collector is a serial killer, who gets all of the beautiful, young women and kills them in the name of love. The killer doesn't leave any prints or clues until he leaves a note giving a hint at the next location.

The four people in the mental home were such neat people and were really made to come alive for me. I could feel their sadness and heartaches, but joy at being able to help in the investigation.

If you are a fan of suspenseful books with lots of graphic details and gory descriptions this book is for you. I really enjoyed it and recommend it to you if you like this wonderful kind of book. Ted is a fantastic author who keeps writing best sellers.

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Thank you to Sarah from the Hachette Book Group for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Rebecca St. James*I Will Praise You*Review and CD Giveaway

ABOUT I WILL PRAISE YOU

Rebecca St. James charts yet another new course with I Will Praise You, a new collection of worship songs she terms “her most persona recording to date.” From the opening notes of track one, listeners are offered a welcoming connection with Rebecca’s recognizably authentic vocal warmth and delivery. More than anything, I Will Praise You represents the latest steps in Rebecca’s life long journey towards the presence of God.

The titles of the songs are:

I Will Praise You

You Never Let Go

Shine Your Glory Down

You Still Amaze Me

In A Moment

The Kindness Of Our God

When The Stars Burn Down (Blessings and Honor)

Almighty God

You Hold Me Now

You Make Everything Beautiful

ABOUT REBECCA ST. JAMES

Australian born Rebecca St. James is both a Grammy Award winner and multiple Dove Award recipients, who can count her lead acting role in the forthcoming film release Sarah’s Choice, as among her most recent ’09 career highlights. With international success that has driven her record sales into the multi-millions globally, she has been tireless on the concert/ live performance front since breaking as a major artist in the Christian music industry while still in her teens. Rebecca was in 2008 for the 7th consecutive year named "Favorite Female Artist" in Contemporary Christian Music by readers of CCM Magazine. She has received RIAA certified gold album awards—for her ground-breaking album God and her Grammy Award winning project Pray, certified gold in 2006. A gifted songwriter, St. James’ signature blend of modern pop/rock sensibilities and lyrics of unwavering devotion have blazed the way to seventeen Top 10 singles--nine of which have reached the #1 spot on the charts to date. A passionate spokesperson for the child relief work of Compassion International, more than 30,000 of the world’s neediest children have found sponsorship through her worldwide concerts. Her annual schedule of international touring has made Rebecca St. James one of the Christian music industry’s most globally outreaching artists. In addition to music, Rebecca is a best selling author, with more than a half dozen books to her credit—including Wait For Me (Thomas Nelson) which has sold more than 100,000 units. Her latest book, Pure, reached Top 10 on the CBA Bestseller List in February 2009. Rebecca’s interests in acting have found her involved in several national film productions, touring in a lead role as Mary Magdalene in the national company of the rock opera musical, !Hero, and voicing the character of ‘Hope The Angel’ in VeggieTales’ best selling DVD production, The Easter Carol, now approaching a million units in sale, after a major re-release in ‘09. Ahead for Rebecca in ‘09: The promise of new music, September release of her newest book, Loved, (Hachette/Faithwords) and the fall national film release of Sarah’s Choice. Rebecca’s newest CD I Will Praise You comes out April 5, 2011.

http://rsjames.com/

http://www.facebook.com/rsjames

MY REVIEW

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I really enjoyed this CD and will for a very long time. I’ve never really listened to Rebecca’s music before and sorry I missed so much. She has such a sweet, honest quality to her voice. You can tell she really means what she sings about. If you’re a Rebecca St. James fan you know what kind of treat you are in for and if you’re not, you will be after you listen to the CD I Will Praise You.

Five of the songs on this CD were written by Rebecca St. James. She is such a talented young lady and what makes her so much sweetest is her Christian testimony.

On the back cover of the CD Rebecca wrote this and I think it’s very special, “Our mission statement as a ministry team is to serve the church and point people to Jesus. We remind each other of this at our band devotions before our shows and as often as we can we pray that this album will encourage you in your journey with God and that it will draw you to worship him! Thank you for supporting this mission by being a part of our ministry. Keep Seeking and serving Jesus, Rebecca St. James.”

So what do I think of this CD? I think you should buy one for yourself and give others to your special friends and precious family members. I highly recommend I Will Praise You by Rebecca St. James.

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“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Giveaway: I Will Praise You CD

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:

~Be or become a follower +1

~Be or become an email subscriber +1

~Be or become a networked blog follower +1

Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org. ENTRY DEADLINE April 13, 2011