Blogging Reprieve

I no longer have the time to keep up 2 separate blogs! If you'd like to see what I'm up to -- please visit me over on my other blog:

Some of My Favorite Books

Happy Blogging!
*hugs*

7.02.2010

My Favorite Cover



by Julie Klassen

Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Release date:  January 1, 2011

Bethany House Publishers
Copyright 2011
Pages:  400
ISBN:  9780764207082

Miss Mariah Aubrey, banished after a scandal, hides herself away in a long-abandoned gatehouse on the far edge of a distant relative's estate. There, she supports herself and her loyal servant the only way she knows how--by writing novels in secret. 
Captain Matthew Bryant, returning to England successful and wealthy after the Napoleonic wars, leases an impressive estate from a cash-poor nobleman, determined to show the society beauty who once rejected him what a colossal mistake she made. When he discovers an old gatehouse on the property, he is immediately intrigued by its striking young inhabitant and sets out to uncover her identity, and her past. But the more he learns about her, the more he realizes he must distance himself. Falling in love with an outcast would ruin his well-laid plans. 
The old gatehouse holds secrets of its own. Can Mariah and Captain Bryant uncover them before the cunning heir to the estate buries them forever?

******************************

After reading The Silent Governess (click HERE for my review) -- I'm really excited about reading this one!!

6.30.2010

Waiting on Wednesday



Thanks to Jill over @ Breaking the Spine, every Wednesday we get to see which books our blogger friends are anxiously waiting to be released.  I know I'm waaaaay behind in keeping up with all the fun, weekly memes, but I'm hoping to start participating again, as much as possible.


For this week, my choice is the 2nd book in Vicki Hinze's debut Christian Fiction series, Crossroads Crisis Center.  I loved the first book, Forget Me Not (read my review HERE), and am sooooo excited to read Deadly Ties!!  Be sure to add them both to your wish list.  :)




(Crossroads Crisis Center, Bk 2)
by Vicki Hinze

Release date:  2/8/2011

Christian Fiction / Romantic Suspense

Multnomah Books
Copyright 2011
Pages:  320
ISBN:  9781601422064


*** No description available yet  --  sorry! ***

6.23.2010

*Another* apology + an update

I just want to apologize to my followers, friends, visitors, etc. for not being around much the last few months.  It's not that I don't WANT to be here, it's just that there never seems to be enough hours in the day for me to do everything I want/need to do.

Ever since starting my new job, though it's only part-time, I can't seem to find the time to keep up my "normal" schedule.  I hope to be doing a better job by the end of July/first of August.  I may only be able to post every other week, but that's definitely better than once a month!  ;)

Also, I know some of you have been so nice to give me a couple of awards that I haven't found the time to post yet -- thank you from the bottom of my heart! -- and I'm sorry for the delay in getting them posted.  I hope to work on those soon, too.

In case you haven't noticed it yet, I've added a sticky note to the top of my blog.  I'll be updating it regularly *fingers crossed* with any new reviews I've posted over on my Book Review blog.  This way, those of you who aren't followers over there will still be able to see what I've been reading/reviewing.

I miss y'all, and hope to catch up with everything that's going on over on your blogs soon!

Thank you!
~ Lori

5.20.2010

My Favorite Cover(s)

I just think these are some of the most beautiful covers ever, so I wanted to share them will y'all.  They are from Nora Roberts' The Bride Quartet series.

(The Bride Quartet, bk 1)


Childhood friends Mackensie, Parker, Laurel and Emmeline have formed a very successful wedding planning business together but, despite helping thousands of happy couples to organize the biggest day of their lives, all four women are unlucky in love.

Photographer Mackensie Elliott has suffered a tough childhood and has a bad relationship with her mother, which makes her wary of commitment. But when she meets Carter MacGuire, she can't stop herself falling for him, although his ex girlfriend is prepared to play dirty to keep him. Mackensie soon realizes she has to put her past demons to rest in order to find lasting love...

(The Brides Quartet, bk 2)

Since she was a little girl, Emma Grant has always loved romance. So it's really no surprise that she has found her calling as a wedding florist. She gets to play with flowers every day and work with her three best friends in the process. She couldn't ask for a better job. And on the surface, Emma's love life seems to be thriving. Slim and sultry, she brings color into every room she enters, just like the arrangements she creates. Though men swarm around her, she still hasn't found Mr. Right. And the last place she's looking is right under her nose.

But that's just where Jack Cooke is. He's been best friends with Parker's brother for years, which makes him practically family. But the architect has begun to admit to himself that his feelings for Emma have developed into much more than friendship. And when Emma returns his passion -- kiss for blistering kiss -- things start to get complicated at Vows. Jack has never been big on commitment. Emma yearns for a lifelong love affair. And if the two are to find common ground, they must trust in their history -- and in their hearts.

(The Brides Quartet, bk 3)

Wedding baker Laurel McBane is surrounded by romance working at Vows wedding planning company with her best friends Parker, Emma, and Mac. But she's too low-key to appreciate all the luxuries that their clients seem to long for. What she does appreciate is a strong, intelligent man, a man just like Parker's older brother Delaney, on whom she's had mega-crush since childhood.

But some infatuations last longer than others, and Laurel is convinced that the Ivy League lawyer is still out of her reach. Plus, Del is too protective of Laurel to ever cross the line with her, or so she thinks. When Laurel's quicksilver moods get the better of her--leading to an angry, hot, all-together mind-blowing kiss with Del--she'll have to quiet the doubts in her mind to turn a moment of passion into forever?

(The Bride Quartet, bk 4)


As the public face of Vows wedding planning company, Parker Brown has an uncanny knack for fulfilling every bride’s vision. She just can’t see where her own life is headed. Mechanic Malcomb Kavanaugh loves figuring out how things work, and Parker is no exception. Both know that moving from minor flirtation to major hook-up is a serious step. Parker’s business risks have always paid off, but now she’ll have to take the chance of a lifetime with her heart…

5.19.2010

Waiting on Wednesday






Happy Ever After
(The Bride Quartet, bk 4)
by Nora Roberts

Contemporary Romance

Release date:  Nov. 2, 2010

Berkley Trade
Copyright 2010

ISBN:  978-1594134036




(from Amazon):

As the public face of Vows wedding planning company, Parker Brown has an uncanny knack for fulfilling every bride’s vision. She just can’t see where her own life is headed. Mechanic Malcomb Kavanaugh loves figuring out how things work, and Parker is no exception. Both know that moving from minor flirtation to major hook-up is a serious step. Parker’s business risks have always paid off, but now she’ll have to take the chance of a lifetime with her heart…


I broke down and bought the first 3 books in this series and can't wait to read them!  The first 2 arrived in today's mail.  It's sooooo hard to ignore them, and keep reading the review books that I have piled up right now.  :(  Hopefully I'll get a break from them soon, and can give this series a try.

5.16.2010

Check it out!

In the past year, I have started having problems gripping things, such as opening a jug of milk, or a Coke bottle.  I also have a hard time using an ice cream scoop.  It's something about having to grip and twist/move at the same time.  To be honest, it can be really annoying at times.  Anyway, I wanted to show y'all this AWESOME ice cream scoop I got in the mail a few days ago.  I've used it once, and fell completely in love!  LOL

Here it is:


Isn't is sooo cool?!?!?  Click HERE to find out more about it!

5.12.2010

Waiting on Wednesday




Walker's Wedding
(The Western Sky series, bk 3)
by Lori Copeland

Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance
/ Western

Release date:  6/1/2010

Harvest House Publishers
Copyright 2010
Pages:  304
ISBN:  9780736927611


(from PBS):

Abandoned by his fiancee hours before their wedding, Walker McKay is determined to never let a woman near his heart again, but he needs an heir to inherit his ranch after he is gone. Courting someone new is out of the question, so he'll have to find a wife another way.

Wealthy heiress Sara Livingston wants to be married, but her suitors are deemed unsuitable by her unreasonable father. When the opportunity to fill the bill for a mail-order bride comes her way, she grabs onto it with both hands.
Will Sara's deception and Walker's wounded heart keep them from finding what they are looking for? Or are they truly meant for one another?

Formerly titled Marrying Walker McKay

5.07.2010

My Favorite Cover

(A McCord Sister Romance, bk 3)
by Christine Lynxwiler

Christian Fiction / Inspirational / Romance

Release date:  November 1, 2010

Barbour Books
Copyright 2010
Pages:  320
ISBN:  978-1602601529

(from Amazon):

Journalist Kaleigh McCord is driven by the need to succeed. When the perfect profile story seems to be handed to her with the start of a camp for reading disabled kids on her family’s ranch, she jumps into helping—alongside a renowned music artist and a disillusioned pediatrician.
*************************
Award-winning author Christine Lynxwiler concludes the McCord Sisters trilogy with Kaleigh’s quest for success in journalism. The perfect profile story comes to her on the McCord family ranch when Dr. Simon Chandler starts a camp for reading disabled kids and invites his old friend, renowned pop artist Sterling Moss, to help out. Kaleigh is charmed by Sterling and thrilled with her story—until children are put in danger by a deranged fan. Will Kaleigh temper her goals to work alongside Simon, helping the kids in the McCord family tradition?
I can't wait to finish this series!!


5.06.2010

Guess What?!?!?



God has answered our prayers about me getting a job!  Thank y'all for praying with us on this matter -- your thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated!  :o)

I saw an ad in the Classified section of our Daily Newspaper a couple of weeks ago, and submitted my resume via email.  They contacted me within a week to set up the first interview (last Wednesday).  I was really nervous!  I haven't been to an interview in 7-8 years.  :)  Anyway, it went great and I told my hubby that I would really be disappointed if I didn't get the job because they seemed like great people to work with/for.

I went to the second interview last Friday, and found out that the job was mine, if I was still interested.  Hello?  Of course I'm interested!  Hahahaha
I am now a Part-Time Medical Receptionist for a local podiatrist.

I started working this Monday, and so far, I'm really enjoying it.  Right now, my schedule is all jumbled up since I'm currently "in training" -- when I start my 'regular' hours, they will be:

Mondays and Wednesdays  -  8:30am - noon
Fridays  -  1:00pm - 5:00pm (or whenever the last patient is done - today we left at 6:00pm)

The only down-side is that I will now have even LESS time to read/blog!  :(  I still haven't completely caught up with my review books (from the delay of my sister's wedding), but I'm working on 'em.  I can't really complain though, since I've been trying to find a job for a couple of years now.  It's a true blessing that God has seen fit to answer that particular prayer, and we are very thankful!  I'll keep working on getting caught up -- that's the best I can do.

Thank you all again for your thoughts and prayers -- they mean SO much!  {{hugs}}

4.23.2010

My Favorite Cover


(Twilight, Texas, bk 2)
by Lori Wilde

Contemporary Romance

Avon Publishing
Copyright 2010
Pages:  384
ISBN:  978-0061808906


From Amazon:

"The pattern of a quilt will always lead you back home." 

Trixie Lynn Parks changed her name to Emma, shook the dust of Twilight, Texas, off her shoes, and vowed to make it big in the city. But after twelve years of shattered dreams, she heads back to the ladies of the True Love Quilting Club . . . and to her first love, Sam Cheek.
Some things—and some people—sure have changed. Sam has grown from a carefree boy to a single dad. And even though the chemistry between them sizzles hotter than ever, Trixie Lynn quickly discovers she must choose between the fame and fortune that have finally come her way—or the one true love who has the power to mend her patchwork heart. 

****************************

I have the first book in this series sitting on my huge TBR mountain, just waiting to be read. It's called, The Sweetheart's Knitting Club. Both of these sound like great reads and I hope to get to them soon.

4.21.2010

Waiting on Wednesday




(Texas Boardinghouse Brides, bk 2)
by Vickie McDonough

Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Barbour Books
Copyright 2010
Pages:  320
ISBN:  978-1602606487

From Amazon:

Fans of The Anonymous Bride, will feel for Shannon O’Neil and Leah Bennett who are stranded in Lookout, Texas, without husbands or future plans. Thankfully, the marshal has ordered the rascally Corbett brothers to pay for the women’s lodging at the boardinghouse, but will the brothers’ idea of hosting Sunday socials really bring these women the kind of loves they long for? Will Shannon choose to marry just for security? Will Leah reject love when the challenges mount?

The Corbett brothers begin hosting socials for singles in Lookout, Texas, after they royally messed up a matchmaking scheme against their cousin. Shannon and Leah are the mail-order brides stranded in town without husbands. Will they each choose to marry for security, or can they hold out for true love?

**************************





The first book in this series, The Anonymous Bride, should be on it's way to me soon--so be watching for my review in the upcoming months.

4.17.2010

My Favorite Cover (a day late)

I am slowly trying to get back to my "regular" blogging schedule, but it's going to take time.  I have way too many review books to catch up on right now. 

I did want to share these new covers I just came across on Amazon, but that doesn't mean these are the final designs.  I think they look awesome!  What do you think?





The Blacksmith's Bravery
(Ladies Shooting Club, bk 3)
by Susan Page Davis

Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Barbour Books
ISBN:  9781602607965










Wrangler in Petticoats
(Sophie's Daughters, bk 1)
by Mary Connealy

Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Barbour Books
ISBN:  9781602601475

4.04.2010

3.26.2010

My Favorite Cover





by Beth Webb Hart

Christian Fiction / Romance / Contemporary

Thomas Nelson
Copyright 2010
Pages:  320
ISBN:  978-1595542014





(from Amazon):


An inspiring, heart-warming novel set in romantic Charleston, South Carolina.

"Stay and wait." Anne Brumley heard these words years ago in the bell tower at Saint Michael's Church in Charleston. She's certain they were from God and has been waiting for true love ever since. But her sister, Della, and their cousin, Alicia, have their doubts. Could Anne have misunderstood His calling?

Saint Michael's new rector may be the answer to Anne's prayers. Good-old-boy and widower Roy Summerall can't believe he's been called to pastor such an historical and a decidedly rich congregation. He can't possibly measure up to their expectations.

It will take a miracle of extraordinary love to provide a happy ending for each of these four Charleston friends.

3.24.2010

Waiting on Wednesday




A Matter of Character
(The Sisters of Bethlehem Springs, Bk 3)
by Robin Lee Hatcher

Christian Fiction / Romance / Historical

Release date:
June 2010

Zondervan
Copyright 2010
Pages:  352
ISBN:   9780310258070



(from Amazon):

Product Description:

In A Matter of Character, by award-winning author Robin Lee Hatcher, the year is 1918 and writing gritty dime novels simply isn't done by a woman. So Daphne McKinley---smart, pretty, talented---publishes her rough-and-tumble books under a male pseudonym. But when a newspaperman enlists her aid in restoring his grandfather's good name, Daphne finds herself re-examining the power of her words and reconsidering the direction of her life.

From the back cover:

The Sisters of Bethlehem Springs series delivers exactly what readers have been waiting for---smart, confident women who are not afraid to defy convention, live their own dreams, and share their lives if the right man comes along. In A Matter of Character, book three in the Sisters of Bethlehem Springs series, it's 1918, and Daphne McKinley, heiress to a small fortune, has found contentment in the town of Bethlehem Springs. But Daphne has a secret. A series of dime novels loosely based on local lore and featuring a nefarious villain known as Rawhide Rick has enjoyed modest popularity among readers. Nobody in Bethlehem Springs knows the man behind the stories ... except Daphne. When newspaperman Joshua Crawford comes to town searching for the man who sullied the good name of his grandfather, Daphne finds herself at a crossroads, reassessing the power of her words, re-thinking how best to honor her gifts, and reconsidering what she wants out of life. 

The other books in this series are:

A Vote of Confidence, Bk 1
Fit to be Ties, Bk 2


3.04.2010

Waiting on Wednesday


Forget Me Not
by Vicki Hinze

Christian Fiction / Suspense

Waterbrook Multnomah
Publishing Group

Copyright 2010
Pages: 352
ISBN:  9781601422057

Release date:  3/16/10



(from Waterbrook Multnomah):


THEIR ELUSIVE ENEMIES TOOK EVERYTHING.  NOW THEY WANT MORE.

Crossroads Crisis Center owner Benjamin Brandt was a content man—in his faith, his work, and his family.  Then in a flash, everything he loved was snatched away.  His wife and son were murdered, and grief-stricken Ben lost faith.  Determination to find their killers keeps him going, but after three years of dead ends and torment, his hope is dying too.  Why had he survived?  He’d failed to protect his family.

Now, a mysterious woman appears at Crossroads seeking answers and help—a victim who eerily resembles Ben’s deceased wife, Susan.  A woman robbed of her identity, her life, of everything except her faith—and Susan’s necklace.

The connections between the two women mount, exceeding coincidence, and to keep the truth hidden, someone is willing to kill.  Finding out who and why turns Ben and the mystery woman’s situation from dangerous to deadly.  Their only hope for survival is to work together, trust each other, and face whatever they discover head on, no matter how painful. But will that be enough to save their lives and heal their tattered hearts?

Forget Me Not is edge-of-your-seat suspense. Each page left me breathless with anticipation for the next page. This book is non-put-downable.”
–Debbie Macomber, #1 New York Times bestselling author

“Written with equal parts grace and passion, Vicki Hinze’s latest thriller Forget Me Not delves deeply into a the chilling world of twisted loyalties, amnesia, and the struggle of a woman to expose a terrorist plot. Romantic, suspenseful, and ultimately uplifting, this story proves that what is buried in the past never stays buried forever. A great read by a writer who continues to amaze”
–James Rollins, New York Times bestselling author of The Doomsday Key

“I literally couldn’t put down Forget Me Not by Vicki Hinze. The suspense kept me flipping pages until long after midnight and I loved the plot twists. Highly recommended!”
–Colleen Coble, author of The Lightkeeper’s Bride and the Rock Harbor series

“Vicki Hinze is a masterful storyteller who has weaved unique and rich characters into a compelling, thought-provoking novel. Forget Me Not is a fabulous page-turner with incredible plot twists that will keep you guessing until the very end.   Highly recommended!”
–Mark Mynheir, homicide detective and author of The Night Watchman

“Vicki Hinze’s Forget Me Not is a novel I couldn’t put down. The fast pace makes for a quick read, the story is full of action and intrigue while the romance flows naturally from the plot. The message of God’s presence in our everyday lives provides an emotional uplifting long after the story ends. I highly recommend Forget Me Not.
–Robin Caroll, author of the bayou series and Deliver Us From Evil

“The always-entertaining Vicki Hinze breaks new ground with this intriguing tale, filled with nail-biting suspense, emotional turmoil and heartfelt redemption. This novel celebrates the sturdiness of the human spirit and the healing power of faith. Don’t miss it!”
–Susan Wiggs, author of Just Breathe

Forget Me Not took off like a bullet from a shotgun and gripped me all the way to the exciting end.  With tight plotting, twists and turns, a sweet romance and lots of action, I’ll be making room on my romantic suspense shelf for more books from Vicki Hinze!”
–Susan May Warren, award-winning author of Nothing But Trouble


Forget Me Not is a season of the television show 24 in print, with a long list of surprises, a good love story, and a great inspirational uplift. An excellent read!”
–Hannah Alexander, author of A Killing Frost

“One of the best romantic suspense novels I've read this year! The mysterious, intriguing opening hooked me right away, and Vicki's characters made me root for them. I can't recommend this book enough!”
–Camy Tang, author of Deadly Intent and the Sushi series

2.24.2010

Waiting on Wednesday

It's official!!  The cover for Julie Lessman's, A Hope Undaunted, has been released by Revell!  It's absolutely gorgeous, and I don't know how I'm gonna wait until October/November to read it!

Without further ado....here it is....


The 1920s are drawing to a close, and feisty Katie O'Connor is the epitome of the new woman--smart and sassy with goals for her future that include the perfect husband and a challenging career in law. Her boyfriend Jake fits all of her criteria for a husband--good-looking, well-connected, wealthy, and head-over-heels in love with her. But when she is forced to spend the summer of 1929 with Luke McGee, the bane of her childhood existence, Katie comes face to face with a choice.

Will she follow her well-laid plans to marry Jake? Or will she fall for the man she swore to despise forever?

A Hope Undaunted is the engrossing first book in the Winds of Change series from popular author Julie Lessman. Readers will thrill at the highly charged romance in this passionate story.

Isn't it just beautiful???
Great job, Julie!
{{hugs}}


Another book that I can't wait to read, that's also set to be released in October/November is book 2 of Sharon Gillenwater's new series, The Callahans of Texas.....Emily's Chance.

This cover is simply to die for!  I'm in love with Chance already!  *sigh*


Emily Rose may be in the tiny West Texas town of Callahan Crossing for the moment, but it's just a rung on her ladder to success. Her work at the Callahan Crossing historical society will look good on her ever-growing resume as she attempts to break into the prestigious world of a big city museum curator. Little does she know cowboy and contractor Chance Callahan has decided that he can convince her to stay--both with the town and with him. As he helps Emily restore the town's history after a devastating fire, he also helps her uncover her own hidden worth and the value of love.

The second book in The Callahans of Texas series, Emily's Chance is a heartwarming story of letting love take the lead. Readers will come away wishing they lived in Callahan Crossing.

Oh my!  Isn't he just gorgeous?
I can't decide who I'm more in love with...Chance or Nate!
Who do you love more?

2.19.2010

My Favorite Cover

 

by Vicki Lewis Thompson, Nancy Warren & Dorien Kelly

General Fiction / Romance / Anthology

Publisher:  Harlequin
Copyright 2010
Pages:  320
ISBN:  9780373837403

(from Paperbackswap):

She's plotted the course
Car chief Roni Kenway has a plan. She'll save her racing team and (hopefully) convince her crew chief, Judd Timmons, that she's the perfect mix of business and pleasure. But will she coast down Victory Lane…or crash into the wall?

She's in Daytona
Haunted by a sadistic book about last-chance love, Lucy Vanderwal hopes a trip to Daytona will end with love. But when she discovers her "last chance" guy is a lemon, Lucy meets rookie driver Sawyer Patton…and learns even a late starter can be a winner!

And she's behind the wheel!
Driver Megan Carter just got back from a dream vacation—sun, sand and a sizzling fling with Chris Donahue. Now all she needs is to prove herself on the race track. But how can she do that when Chris turns up in her garage—in her real life—and says he's there to stay?

I love this cover, and thought it was appropriate for Valentine's week.  =)

2.14.2010

Comments

2.12.2010

My Favorite Cover

 

by Gwyn Cready

Paranormal Romance / Time-travel / Historical

Release date:  March 30, 2010

Publisher:  Pocket
Copyright 2010
Pages:  448
ISBN:  9781439107249

(from Amazon):
In RITA® Award–winning author Gwyn Cready’s fun and sexy new time-travel adventure, an ambitious writer discovers that bad-boy painters are as timeless—and irresistible—as their art. . . .Art historian Campbell Stratford is about to make a name for herself with her scandalously sexy tell-all “fictographies” of famous seventeenth-century artists, but she’s more intimately familiar with her subjects than her eager readers can imagine. 

Thanks to a time portal she accidentally discovered, she has caused quite a stir in the Great Beyond. To save their reputations, the Guild protecting dead artists convinces playboy Peter Lely, portraitist to the king, to sabotage Cam’s latest project. A few hours posing on Sir Peter’s modeling chaise leads to a night of seductive passion—then Cam returns home and discovers his betrayal. But before she can turn her angry pen on her lover, Sir Peter makes a surprise visit to the future and transforms Cam’s twenty-first-century life into chaos of classic proportions. . . .

***Not my kinda book, but the cover is awesome!  I love how her shoes stand out from the rest of her outfit!  =)***

2.07.2010

HAPPY BIRTHDAY..............

...............to my Mom!!!






Comments


She doesn't blog, but I still wanted to wish her a Happy Birthday...publicly!  :)

2.04.2010

Waiting on Wednesday (early Thursday)

 

Jill over @ Breaking the Spine hosts a weekly meme that features one book that you can't wait to be released! 


  

(A Ladies of Summerhill novel)
by Cara Lynn James

Christian Fiction / Historical

Release date:  6/8/2010

Publisher:  Thomas Nelson
Copyright 2010
Pages:  320
ISBN:  9781595546791

It’s the summer of 1899 in Newport, Rhode Island, and Lilly Westbrook is struggling to conceal her career from family and friends because of the stigma attached to dime novels. Lilly feels good about her secret-after all, she’s enlightening working class girls with her books and honoring God by using her talents to His glory.

But her secret is threatened when Jackson Grail, a former suitor, becomes Lilly’s new publisher. He’s determined to revive his floundering publishing house by maximizing their most promising--and most secretive--author. His plan? Find "Fannie Cole" and convince her to go public.

When a gossip columnist discovers Lilly’s true identity, she finds that being faithful to her calling involves more than just putting pen to paper. It requires that she stand up for her faith and for herself, no matter the consequences...

2.01.2010

WINNER!! ~January Giveaway~



And the lucky winner is........................




Name Graphics



CONGRATULATIONS, Debra!!!

1.29.2010

My Favorite Cover

 

by Linda Lael Miller

Contemporary Romance

Release date:  April 1, 2010

Publisher:  HQN Books
Copyright 2010
Pages:  384
ISBN:  9780373774463

Since there's no Product Description available yet...how about this awesome Book Trailer?  *sigh*




They're all so HOT!  I just can't decide between Tate and Austin!  I broke down and bought Tate at Wal-Mart this week, when it was first released.  *wink*

7 yr. old sings National Anthem

I got this in an email this a.m. and couldn't resist sharing it with y'all! It will bring tears to your eyes. Enjoy!


1.26.2010

Blog Awards!!

WOW!  I just received a couple of Blog Awards from my friend (and fellow blogger), Renee @ Black 'n Gold Girl's Book Spot.  Thank you so much, Renee!  Congrats on receiving them yourself...you truly deserve them!

The first one is:



A Prolific Blogger is one who is intellectually productive… keeping up an active blog that is filled with enjoyable content.

1. Every winner of the Prolific Blogger Award has to pass on this award to at least seven other deserving prolific bloggers. Spread some love!

2. Each Prolific Blogger must link to the blog from which he/she has received the award.

3. Every Prolific Blogger must link back to this post, which explains the origins and motivation for the award.

4. Every Prolific Blogger must visit this post and add his/her name in the Mr. Linky, so that we all can get to know the other winners. (Click here for the Mr. Linky page.)

The rules state that I must pass this award on to "at least seven other deserving prolific bloggers", but I'll be passing it on to a few more than seven:

1 ~ Blanche @ No Such Thing as Too Many Books
2 ~ Choco @ In Which a Girl Reads
3 ~ Verlina @ What You Reading Now?
4 ~ Brande @ Book Junkie
5 ~ Colletta @ Colletta's Kitchen Sink
6 ~ Jennifer @ Crazy-for-Books
7 ~ In the Hammock
8 ~ MJ @ Creative Madness
9 ~ Mimi @ Woven By Words


The second one is:



I agree with Renee.....I would like to pass this one along to everyone who is my friend, follower, fellow blogger, etc.  Please be sure to grab this award before you leave!  Thank you all for being such great "buddies"!  {{hugs}}

1.22.2010

~ January Giveaway ~


For some reason I have cowboys on my mind this month, so I'm hosting 2 different giveaways ~ one on each of my blogs.  If both books interest you, please feel free to enter them both!



One Lucky Cowboy
(Luckadeau series, Bk 2)
by Carolyn Brown
(This is an ARC)

Romance / Contemporary / Western-themed

Sourcebooks Casablanca
Copyright 2009
Pages:  331
ISBN:  9781402224379

Synopsis:

Jane Day is on the run from the paid assassin who had been her fiancé. In Wichita Falls, Texas, she meets Nellie Luckadeau, a spitfire of an old lady who desperately needs someone to work on her ranch. But Nellie's drop-dead gorgeous grandson "Lucky Slade" is sure he can spot a con artist a mile away. He's determined not to let some upstart like Jane fleece his granny.

When his signature intimidation methods don't convince Jane to leave, he pours on the charm to make her spill what she's up to. She's happy to play along, but she's not going to let this hot, hostile cowboy run her off his land when all she needs is a lucky break.
 

Here are the rules:

* You must leave a valid email address in your comment, so I can contact you if you're the winner.

(Example: sugarandgrits{at}hotmail{dot}com)
This way spammers will be less likely to grab it.

* You must have a valid U.S. mailing address.

* At this time, the giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.

* The giveaway will be from Jan. 22nd thru Jan. 31st at 11:59 p.m. (EST)
(Any/all entries entered after this time will not be eligible.)

* I will announce the winner here Feb. 1st ~ you will also be contacted via email.  You will then have 48 hours in which to respond with your snail mail address, or another winner will be chosen.

Please include all of your entries in ONE comment...this will make it a lot easier for me to keep up with them!!  Thanks! =)

+1 = Just for leaving a comment!

+1 = By becoming a new follower thru
Google Friend Connect, on the right sidebar

+2 = Let me know that you're already a follower


+5 = Post about my giveaway on your blog, or in your sidebar
(don't forget to link it back to this post)

Thank you so much for dropping by and participating!

GOOD LUCK to everyone!!

My Favorite Cover



(Irish Angel series, Bk 1)
by Jill Marie Landis

Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Release date:  March 1, 2010

Zondervan
Copyright 2010
Pages:  352
ISBN:  9780310328728

(from Amazon):

Landis, inspirational fiction author of more than 20 novels, offers readers who value gentle love stories this first title in the Irish Angels series.

Laura Foster (aka Lovie Lane), wealthy widowed owner of a refined boardinghouse in Glory, Tex., is running from her tainted past and ruined childhood in a tale set in the 1870s. Laura does everything in her power to overcome the odds and create a life free of shame and abuse. Partly succeeding, she is thrown off-kilter when handsome Rev. Brand McCormick, a widower, takes a romantic interest in her. Laura knows with dead certainty that Brand would never come calling if he knew the truth of her past, so she rebuffs his attention at every turn. But the good reverend just won't be put off.

Both characters have much to reveal that will test their love, faith, and loyalty to one another. Landis's writing is crisp and neatly presented; however, much of the story is too formulaic for discerning genre readers.

1.21.2010

What's New on My Shelf



Since I can't seem to keep up with my Mailbox Monday posts, I've decided to join another meme that allows us to share any "New Books" we've added to our shelves.  I recently came across this meme over at Romance Reader @ heart, and it sounds like it will fit my scattered lifestyle a lot better!  LOL

Here's what I've added to my shelf:



All of these came to me from swap sites:

The Great Christmas Bowl by Susan May Warren
Heaven Can Wait by Cheryl St. John
Forbidden Falls by Robyn Carr



I broke down and bought these 2 books at Wal-Mart, but I did have a gift card!



What books did you add to your shelves last week?  Feel free to leave a comment with a link to your post, or just post your list in your comment.

Thanks for dropping by!

1.20.2010

Waiting on Wednesday



Moonlight Road
(Virgin River series, Bk 10)
by Robyn Carr

General Fiction / Contemporary / Romance

Release date:  March 1, 2010

Publisher:  Mira
Copyright 2010
Pages:  416
ISBN:  9780778327684
 

With her beloved younger siblings settled and happy, Erin Foley has got empty nest syndrome. At age thirty-five.

So she's hitting the pause button on her life and holing up in a secluded (but totally upgraded, she's not into roughing it) cabin near Virgin River. Erin is looking forward to really getting to know herself...not some shaggy-haired mountain man she meets wandering the woods.

In fact, beneath his faded fatigues and bushy beard, Aiden Riordan is a doctor, recharging for a summer after leaving the Navy. He's intrigued by the pretty, slightly snooty refugee from the rat race -- meditating, journaling and definitely keeping him at arm's length. He'd love to get closer...if his scruffy exterior and crazy ex-wife don't hold him back.

But maybe it's something in the water -- unlikely romances seem to take root in Virgin River...helped along with some well-intentioned meddling, of course.

 I have this entire series sitting in my TBR stacks (except for this one), just waiting to be read. I love, love, love reading an entire series back-to-back, so I can't wait to get this book, so I can start reading!! :)

1.16.2010

Unbelievable!

I've never seen a cat do this before! LOL





*Compliments of Robin Lee Hatcher*

1.15.2010

My Favorite Cover


Hold Up the Sky
by Patricia Sprinkle

Cozy Mystery / Suspense

NAL Trade
Copyright 2010
Pages: 432
ISBN: 9780451229144

(from Amazon.com):

From a veteran writer new to the Accent list, a novel about four women who find strength and insight in each other.

Mamie is facing an overwhelming secret. Margaret has lost her home. Billie can no longer care alone for her disabled daughter. And Maria is living with an untenable choice. When these four women come together to live on a drought-stricken Georgia farm, they must open their hearts, and share their burdens, before they can find the bounty that lies hidden in tough times, and once again see the glorious pattern of meaning in their lives.

This isn't something I would normally choose, but I love the cover! It makes me think of warmer days...that can't get here soon enough! LOL Plus, I noticed that it takes place in Georgia; my hometown. :)

1.13.2010

Waiting on Wednesday


(Compliments of Jill @ Breaking the Spine)

It allows bloggers to feature pre-publication
books that they are eagerly anticipating!



The Sweethearts' Knitting Club
by Lori Wilde

Released: November 2009

General Romance / Contemporary

AVON
Copyright 2009
Pages: 400
ISBN: 9780061808890

(from Amazon.com):

"Throw a penny in the fountain of the Twilight town square, and you'll be married to your first love . . . "

For ten years, pretty Flynn MacGregor has been turning down the same solid, upright man's marriage proposal. Her friends at the Sweethearts' Knitting Club tell her they're a match made in heaven, but Flynn knows there's only one dangerous reason why she keeps saying no: high school sweetheart Jesse Calloway. She was just sixteen when Jesse was forced out of town under a cloud of suspicion . . . but he's never left her heart.

Now Jesse is back, and every time she turns the corner he's there—gazing at her with his smoldering eyes and tempting her with his kisses. Jesse has never played by the rules, and he's made it clear that he's not going to now. And Flynn, who's always done just what her family, friends, and fellow knitters have told her to do, must finally break free and claim the love that binds Jesse to her heart.

1.12.2010

Teaser Tuesday


(Compliments of MizB @ Should Be Reading)


Here's what you're asked to do:
  1. Grab your current read.
  2. Let the book fall open to a random page.
  3. Share two teaser sentences from that page, somewhere between lines 7 and 12.
  4. Share the title of the book that the “teaser” comes from ~ so people can find the book if they like the teaser.
  5. And remember – AVOID SPOILERS!!
Here's mine:

"Dove placed her hand on Lucinda's arm. 'And what if he doesn't come back?'

The words pierced Lucinda's heart. 'I...don't know. I prefer not to think of that now.' But no matter how hard she tried, the thought was always there in the dark edges of her mind.
"

Page: 174
(ARC version)


Becoming Lucy
(Winds Across the Prairie series, Bk 1)
by Martha Rogers

Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Realms (A Strang Company)
Copyright 2010
Pages: 297
ISBN: 9781599799124