Friday, December 14, 2012

How Real is ROSEMARY? (Guest Post by Naomi King)

Jim Smith, my research source from the Old Order Amish colony of Jamesport, MO, told me an interesting story last week—a glimpse into how real-life Amish perceive these Amish books so many of us are reading and writing these days. My books have been for sale in the Christian bookstore in Jamesport, but apparently the owner, Joe Burkholder, was dissuaded from stocking any more of them because his mother found my stories upsetting. She didn’t like it that I had an unwed mother in one book, and an arrogant Bishop keeping secrets, because those kinds of folks aren’t supposed to exist among the Amish. Bishops can do no wrong. Girls don’t have sex before they get married. 

Ah, you say, but they can and they do! If you’ve followed the story of the rogue bishop Sam Mullet and the hair/beard cutting attacks in Ohio, you realize just how power can corrupt any leader, and how far believers will go to stay true to their faith. The Amish, like the rest of us, are human…but they don’t want their shortcomings and sins published for the rest of the world to read about. 

Joe, however, has called me to order a bunch more of my books for his store. Jim says he got around his mother’s objections by saying, “It’s a novel. Readers understand that.” 

What a perfect answer!

And it brings up the related question: how much of Amish fiction is true-to-life, and how much is romanticized? Most of us picture life without cell phones, computers, cars, and electricity as much more idyllic than the way we live—we don’t want to give up our conveniences, but we sure would like the simpler countryside lifestyle where families gather around the table for every meal and neighbor helps neighbor and we’re not bombarded by computer-generated phone calls, political ads, and rush hour traffic.

I suspect that most women readers would not be as submissive to their husbands as the Old Order faith requires, either. And I suspect that while most readers compliment me for having strong Amish heroines who don’t play doormat to their men, those ladies might not be so headstrong or bold in real Amish life. But many of the things Abby Lambright, Miriam Lantz—and now Rosemary Yutzy—do are based upon what I’ve found to hold true for someone in Jamesport.

In ROSEMARY OPENS HER HEART, for instance, Rosemary has chosen to live with her father-in-law Titus after her husband Joe is killed in a hunting accident. Because most Amish women are dependent upon men—and because the men take care of sisters, aunts, and other unmarried or widowed women in their family—this is accurate. While Rosemary could have lived with her widowed mother and unmarried sister, she chose instead to help Titus with his household and his twelve-year-old daughter Beth Ann, who have lost their wife/mom. Rosemary is preserving Joe’s family this way, an honorable way to spend her life.

It’s also true that everyone Rosemary knows would insist that she should remarry—if only to give her toddler Katie a father. Rosemary has other ideas, however! Even if Matt Lambright is sincere and earnest (and good-looking!) she can’t yet let go of her past with Joe. She has a dream of supporting herself by baking pies—a very authentic Amish way for unmarried women to earn money—and she realizes that her dream will go by the wayside if she remarries.

Rosemary also has an option a lot of widows don’t: when Joe died, they had a piece of paid-for property where they planned to build a home of their own. (Most young Amish couples live with either her parents or his until they can afford a house. Joe and Rosemary lived in her mom’s house). Rosemary uses this property as leverage when Titus insists she move to Cedar Creek with him—and it plays into Matt’s fantasies about moving to Queen City to be with Rosemary, too. Rather than allow this piece of land to melt into Titus’s estate when he sells out, she insists on being paid fair market value for it. Here again, submission is not Rosemary’s cup of tea, and in real Amish life she might not get away with such an independent mindset.

A lot of folks—my editor included—have the notion that all Amish properties are postcard-perfect, all homes are neat as a pin, all children are well-behaved, and all families are loving and supportive. Well…a drive through the Missouri countryside in Plain areas will show you that “stuff” gets piled around some of their homes, some of which could use a coat of paint. Not everyone can afford upkeep on their buildings—and not everyone considers it a priority, much the same as in any neighborhood.
And the kids? Well, Katie is three and she loves to run off the moment Rosemary turns her back. Amish children are indeed more strictly disciplined than non-Amish kids (they are raised with the same “spare the rod and spoil the child” attitude I and folks older than I grew up with. So yes, those kids get spankings and it’s not considered child abuse. It’s good, preventive parenting.)

Still, little kids will test their limits. Katie drives the story by being her winsome, curious, playful self, and the way Matt immediately takes to her—and must sternly insist that she stop running off, because she could get hurt by his sheep—turns the tide for Rosemary. The fact that he encourages her to buy a fine new oven for baking her pies is an even bigger point in his favor.

So I feel I’ve done my research, and I’ve done a credible job of presenting my Amish characters in all their triumphs, tragedies, and mistakes. But yes, there are aspects of my stories that are not quite Old Order Amish because, well—Joe Burkholder said it best. “It’s a novel. Readers will understand that.”


I hope you’ll enjoy ROSEMARY OPENS HER HEART, and check out the other books on my website, as well. You can also sign up for my newsletter there, and find recipes, excerpts, and other interesting tidbits! www.NaomiKingAuthor.com. If you care to, you can Friend me on Facebook as Charlotte Hubbard and Like my Naomi C. King author page. Thanks so much for your interest in my stories!






ABOUT ROSEMARY OPENS HER HEART:


Another spring reminds the Amish of Cedar Creek, Missouri,
that for everything there is a season.

Zanna Lambright is finally marrying Jonny Ropp, and friends and family have come from far and wide to celebrate. Among them is young widow Rosemary Yutzy, mother of toddler Katie, whose husband was tragically killed last fall. With a willing heart Rosemaryhas taken over care of her in-law’s family and continued to run a baked goods business from home, but privately she still mourns her lost Joe…and is unprepared for the changes that are coming…

Rosemary’s father-in-law wants to merge his lamb-raising business with Matt Lambright’s—a move that will require the Yutzys to relocate from their nearby town to Cedar Creek. Moreoever, it will bring Rosemary into constant contact with Matt, who is making no secret of his romantic interest in her. The challenges of contemplating a future unlike any she expected are overwhelming forRosemary. And although Matt is strong and kind, his courtship is so persistent, she often wants to run the other way. AsRosemary struggles to see beyond her immediate joys and sorrows, will she embrace the outpouring of welcome and support from the people of Cedar Creek…and accept this new chance to open her heart to a more abundant life?




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Purrs of Wisdom: Conscious Living Feline Style (Book Spotlight & Giveaway)


Purrs of Wisdom is a collection of essays featuring lessons in conscious living, inspired by the cats who have shared the author’s life. From help with every day challenges to inspiration on living a joyful life, this compilation provides encouragement, guidance, and enlightenment, feline style. Whether it’s creating balance, navigating turbulent times, or finding the magic in life’s ordinary moments, there’s something for everyone in this book.

Chapters include:
  • The Healing Power of the Purr
  • Making Time for Contemplation
  • Routine as the Key to Happiness
  • Purging Can Make You Purr
  • Healthy Cats, Healthy Human

The stories may remind readers of lessons their own cats have taught them, provide “aha” moments, or simply bring a smile.

The book is best enjoyed with a cat curled up on your lap.



PRAISE FOR Purrs of Wisdom

Purrs of Wisdomby Ingrid King, is a treat for anyone who is enchanted by all things feline! The book is an exploration of lessons on living a joyful and inspired life, learned from the many magical cats who have shared the author’s journey. I found gifts on every page, but the section titled Lessons from a Maple Tree especially touched my heart. The author talks about taking time out of her busy day to soak up the tree’s magnificent colors when the leaves change in the fall. “Doing nothing without feeling guilty” is a lesson she learned from her cats. Ingrid’s words were a gentle reminder to this fast-paced former New Yorker to look to my own kitties for guidance when my world seems to be spinning a bit too quickly.
Purrs of Wisdom is sure to be a treasured addition to any cat lover’s library!”
- Christine Davis, Author of For Every Cat An Angel and Forever Paws

***

“Reading this collection of feline-inspired essays and life lessons gave me several AHA! moments. Purrs of Wisdom is a refreshing read that packs a deceptively powerful punch and provides helpful recipes for finding your bliss. Ingrid King writes with compassion for those who struggle along as “life happens.” The gifted writer offers nearly poetic insight how to manage the angst, as well as to recognize the “why” behind such things. You’ll want to savor each individual chapter and purr-haps bookmark and revisit those that strike a personal chord. And of course, read aloud to your favorite feline companion!”
- Amy Shojai, bestselling author of more than two-dozen pet books

***

Purrs of Wisdom is the perfect book for anyone who loves cats – and has an interest in living life to the fullest, with a positive and peaceful outlook – just like a cat does! It spoke to me on several levels and is sure to become a well-thumbed volume as I continue on my life’s journey.”
- Ann Brightman, Managing Editor, Animal Wellness Magazine

***

“In this guide to living spiritually and creatively in a world that isn’t always quite comfortable with either quality, King, a keenly intuitive writer, draws upon the lessons she has learned from her beloved feline friends, weaving them deftly together with her own experiences. ”
- T.J. Banks, Author of Sketch People: Stories Along the Way and Catsong


About the Author:
Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager turned award winning writer. Her popular blog, The Conscious Cat, a comprehensive resource for conscious living, health, and happiness for cats and their humans, has won multiple awards, including DogTime Media’s 2012 Pettie for Best Cat Blog, 2011 Pettie for Best Overall Pet Blog, and About.com’s 2012 Readers Choice Award for Best Website About Cats. Ingrid is the publisher of the online magazine News for You and Your Pet, which goes out to subscribers around the world. Her articles have been published in Cat Fancy, Animal Wellness Magazine, Urban Animal, NOVADog, and on miscellaneous websites. Ingrid lives in Northern Virginia with her tortoiseshell cats Allegra and Ruby.

Her latest book is Purrs of Wisdom: Conscious Living Feline Style.

Visit her website at www.ingridking.com.


GIVEAWAY!






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Monday, December 10, 2012

The Alchemists Academy Book 1 & 2: Stones to Ashes & Elemental Explosions by Kailin Gow (Book Spotlights & Giveaway)

What do you learn here...at the Academy? Wirt asks. Magic? The responsibility to use your powers responsibly? Uh...something like that, his roommate Spencer said. More like how to rule worlds. Wirt, is used to being shuffled from foster home to foster home, adopting a devil-may-care attitude toward the world along the way. Now he s in a school he can t escape, learning to develop his latent magical abilities, for what use, he doesn't know...to save his world or to destroy it...

Purchase



Excerpt from Stones to Ashes:

Wirt screwed his eyes shut, wishing fervently that he was somewhere, anywhere else. Right now, being back with Joan and Peter was looking an awful lot more appetizing. First, though, he had to find some way to get out of here…

Wirt doubled up as his stomach suddenly cramped. For a moment, he though he had been hit, but that hypothesis went by the wayside as the feeling spread to every muscle in his body at once. As far as Wirt knew, and thanks to some of his earlier misadventures he did know, not even three people could manage to hit you everywhere simultaneously. Wirt forced his eyes open, and then quickly shut them again, because the golden radiance surrounding him was simply too bright to look though. Around him, the gasps of the three bullies were clearly audible.

“He’s glowing, Rich. Why is he glowing?”

“How should I know? Look, just grab him.”

“You grab him. He could be radioactive or something, the way he’s glowing.”

“Oh, so it’s all right for me to grab radiation boy, is it?”

The sounds of a scuffle came to Wirt, but they were quickly replaced by silence. He didn’t really care, because by now the unpleasant sensation running through his body had reached unbearable levels, feeling as though every scrap of him were being pulled in a different direction.

As suddenly as it had come, the sensation passed. Wirt had to concentrate just to breathe, and he stood like that for long seconds. He didn’t dare open his eyes, at least until it occurred to him that the three older boys might still be there waiting to hit him. That made his eyes snap open so quickly that for a second he couldn’t make sense of anything around him. When he did, Wirt took a step back, and that itself was surprising enough, given that there should have been a chain link fence in the way. Instead, he was standing in the middle of a field, with no sign of any fences anywhere in sight.

***

A new student has entered The Alchemists Academy, and he brings with him an explosive power that threatens the Academy and the legend of Merlin. Wirt thought he was the only bad boy at the Academy, but he was wrong. Not only is Roland Black worse than Wirt, but a new teacher had replaced one of their beloved teachers, and she has more planned for Wirt and his friends than just lesson plans. Alana, his crush has grown prettier, and now he is rivals for her attention with not only his best friend Spencer, but newcomer Roland, as well. On top of that, it is their second year, and the year where all the students must pass a test to move on to the Elite Class at the Academy. The Elite Class is the only class in the third year at the Academy, and the students who fail will be sent home, others will face something even deadlier.

Purchase



Excerpt from Elemental Explosions:

The moment didn’t last long, and Wirt opened his gift in a shower of wrapping paper. His parents looked on, those same smiles present on their faces. He looked down into the box, only to see that it was empty. Or not quite empty. Inside was a square of paper, on which careful handwriting stood out clearly. Wirt picked it up and read the words “Merry Christmas, beloved son. You cannot see, taste, or smell your gift, but you will know it when you feel it.”

“What?” Wirt asked. “I don’t understand. Is this some sort of riddle?”

His dream mother and father didn’t say anything. They just smiled and stared at the box in a way that suggested that Wirt was missing something. Not knowing what else to do, Wirt reached down into it, searching it by feel in case there was something at the bottom that he might not have noticed.

There was. Wirt yelped as something closed around his wrist, and tried to yank his arm back. It didn’t move, and as Wirt looked down, he saw dark fingers clasped on his arm. They weren’t just dark-skinned; they were absolutely black, as though carved from onyx or jet. They were as implacable as stone too, refusing to relinquish their grip as Wirt tried to jerk away.

“Help me,” he said to his parents, but they just shook their heads sadly, staring in that way parents had that told you that whatever was happening was for your own good.

The arm pulled at Wirt, and it pulled with far more strength than Wirt had ever experienced. He tried his best to brace himself against it, but slowly, inexorably, the hand drew him towards the box. That swirled with darkness now, and Wirt got the feeling that it was suddenly far deeper than it had been a moment ago.

He found out as the hand dragged him in, though how he fit into the box, Wirt wasn’t sure. He only knew that he fell. Only after a second or two, he wasn’t falling. He was walking along a tunnel instead. The walls were of natural earth, while huge tree roots showed up at intervals like roof beams and standing stones lined the walls, marks on them seeming to tell a story that Wirt could not understand.

***


Author Kailin Gow
Kailin Gow is the award-winning, international bestselling author of over 80 distinct books.

Kailin Gow is also the President of a media company, a media personality, and has been writing full- time since she was first published. Holding a Masters in communications management and leadership positions in Fortune 500 corporations, she puts her leadership abilities, her experience, and desire to help others into her fiction books. As a result, she has written the forthcoming, Finding the Heroine in You book which is also a national tour. She is a mother and spends whatever spare time she has volunteering at the Red Cross, Battered Women's Shelters, and other organizations.

Currently her Frost Series is in development for a major international MMO Game, and she has over 14,000 and growing Frosters on her facebook fan page.
Links:


Tour Schedule


Book Blast Giveaway!
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 12/31/12
*You need not enter your twitter name for each entry. Simply enter it for the first person you follow and leave the others blank.


Open to anyone who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent's permission. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Thursday, December 6, 2012

The Heart's Journey by Barbara Cameron (Review & Giveaway)


Naomi knows she should be excited about her upcoming wedding but she remains unmoved. Not only are her feelings for her fiance lackluster but she believes he may see her more as a servant than a partner. And he's so controlling. Is it too late to back out of the marriage? 

While praying for God's guidance, Naomi takes a break from her duties as a quilter and travels with her grandmother to Pinecraft, Florida. Along the way Naomi finds herself becoming attracted to Nick, their "Englisch" driver and friend, and the two begin to fall in love. The journey soon becomes one in which Naomi explores her most secret dream for love. But can she veer off the "safe" path she'd envisioned for her life to marry Nick?



I GIVE THIS BOOK:1 star1 star1 star1-1/2 stars

MY THOUGHTS:
The Heart's Journey is the second book in the Stitches in Time series. I read Her Restless Heart, book one, earlier this year and have to say that I enjoyed The Heart's Journey so much more than that one. I'm not quite sure if the reason was that I felt that Naomi was a more relatable character or if I liked the whole plot better, but whatever the reason I was really delighted with it.

I think The Heart's Journey could easily be read as stand alone, as each book in the series focuses more on a different cousin, and unlike other series I don't think much would be spoiled if you did this. Obviously you would know who ended up with whom, if anyone, but besides that I think it's pretty spoiler-free.

I am looking forward to reading the third book, Heart in Hand, when it comes out next year. If you are a fan of Amish fiction, I think you will love this novel.

***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

BOOK DETAILS:
  • Paperback: 288 pages
  • Publisher: Abingdon Press (October 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1426714335
  • ISBN-13: 978-1426714337
  • Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 0.7 inches
  • Available to purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | CBD

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Barbara Cameron is the author of more than 30 fiction and nonfiction books, three nationally televised movies (HBO-Cinemax), and the winner of the first Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award.

When a relative took her to visit the Amish community in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, she felt led to write about the spiritual values and simple joys she witnessed there. She attends a Methodist church near Edgewater, a small town on the east coast of Florida.

Find out more about Barbara at www.barbaracameron.com, www.amishhearts.com and www.amishliving.com.



GIVEAWAY!



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Tuesday, December 4, 2012

No Safe Harbor by Elizabeth Ludwig (Review and Kindle Fire Giveaway)

New York City, 1897

She came to America searching for her brother. Instead all she's found is a web of danger.

Cara Hamilton had thought her brother to be dead. Now, clutching his letter, she leaves Ireland for America, desperate to find him. Her search leads her to a houseful of curious strangers, and one man who claims to be a friend--Rourke Walsh. Despite her brother's warning, Cara trusts Rourke, revealing her purpose in coming to New York.

She's then thrust into a world of subterfuge, veiled threats, and attempted murder, including political revolutionaries from the homeland out for revenge. Her questions guide her ever nearer to locating her brother--but they also bring her closer to destruction as those who want to kill him track her footsteps.

With her faith in tatters, all hope flees. Will her brother finally surface? Can he save Cara from the truth about Rourke... a man she's grown to love?

I GIVE THIS BOOK:1 star1 star1 star1 star

MY THOUGHTS:
No Safe Harbor, book one in the Edge of Freedom Series, is the first book I have read by Elizabeth Ludwig. Immediately I was caught up in the story; however, after a while parts of the story became a bit tedious and the ending was kind of unbelievable, but otherwise the story was very enjoyable.

I knew a little about the Irish/British conflicts, but felt that this part in the book wasn't explained very well at all. Terms were just mentioned without telling you what they meant and so I wasn't always sure if they were a good thing or a bad thing. Had I not known the little I did, I think I would have been completely lost.

I fell in love with the main characters almost right away and the secondary characters were also very nice. I am really looking forward to learning more about Ana, one of the women who befriended Cara and who the second book is going to be about. Books two and three in this series are set to be released in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

If you love historical romance with a bit of suspense then I think you would enjoy No Safe Harbor.

***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***

If you found this review helpful, will you please click yes HERE. Thanks!

BOOK DETAILS:
  • Paperback: 336 pages
  • Publisher: Bethany House Publishers; Original edition (October 1, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0764210394
  • ISBN-13: 978-0764210396
  • Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 1 x 8.5 inches
  • Available to purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | CBD

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Elizabeth Ludwig is an award-winning author whose work has been featured on Novel Journey, the Christian Authors Network, and The Christian Pulse. Her first novel, Where the Truth Lies, which she co-authored with Janelle Mowery, earned her the 2008 IWA Writer of the Year Award. In 2010, her first full-length historical novel Love Finds You in Calico, California was given four stars from Romantic Times. And her popular literary blog, The Borrowed Book, enjoys a wide readership, its first year seeing more than 17,000 visitors.

Elizabeth is an accomplished speaker and teacher, and often attends conferences and seminars where she lectures on editing for fiction writers, crafting effective novel proposals, and conducting successful editor/agent interviews. Along with her husband and two children, Elizabeth makes her home in the great state of Texas. To learn more about her work, visit her at www.elizabethludwig.com.



***

Elizabeth Ludwig is celebrating her new book with a Kindle Fire Giveaway and connecting with readers at a Facebook Author Chat party on 12/6.


One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • No Safe Harbor by Elizabeth Ludwig
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 5th. Winner will be announced at the "No Safe Harbor" Author Chat Facebook Party on 12/6. Connect with Elizabeth, get a sneak peek of the next book in the Edge of Freedom series, try your hand at the trivia contest, and win some great prizes—gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack (10 copies for your book club or small group)!

So grab your copy of No Safe Harbor and join Elizabeth on the evening of the December 6th for a chance to connect with her and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP todayTell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 6th!

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RESURRECT BY DAVID E. STEVENS (KINDLE FIRE GIVEAWAY & FACEBOOK PARTY)

Welcome to the campaign launch for David E. Stevens new Resurrect Trilogy.Resurrect is an apocalyptic thriller based on real world threats from cutting-edge science. A Colorado Gold finalist for Best Action Thriller of the Year, it’s been optioned for a major motion picture by Producer Fred Miller (When Angels Sing starring Harry Connick Jr.).

To celebrate David has teamed up with his publisher, Kregel Publications, for a Kindle Fire Giveaway and Facebook Author Chat Party {12/4}.


One “thrilling” winner will receive:
A Kindle Fire
Resurrect by David E. Stevens

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 3rd. Winner will be announced at the “Resurrect” Author Chat Facebook Party on 12/4. Connect with David, get a sneak peek of the next book in the Resurrect Trilogy, try your hand at the trivia contest, and win some great prizes – gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group)!

So grab your copy of Resurrect and join David on the evening of the December 4th for a chance to connect with David and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)



DON’T MISS A MOMENT OF THE FUN, RSVP TODAY. TELL YOUR FRIENDS VIA FACEBOOK OR TWITTER AND INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE 4TH!
{MORE ABOUT RESURRECT}

Author David E. Stevens is offering a Kindle HD Giveaway and a chance to be on set during the filming of the movie! To enter all you need to do is Order Resurrect HERE by midnight on November 20th to be entered. All orders of the book will enter buyers into a Kindle giveaway and a chance to be on set during the filming of the movie!

Book 1 in the Resurrect Trilogy.

Preventing his burning fighter from crashing into a neighborhood, Navy Commander Josh Logan ejects … too late.

Critically injured, he’s offered a new life and mission exploit highly classified military technology to stop a global cataclysm. The price? He’ll be dead to everyone he knows.

He wakes in a city hospital with a genetically enhanced body and no identity. With the help of his brilliant, Neuro ICU nurse, and guided by nothing but a voice, he must infiltrate the military-industrial complex to develop the world’s most powerful weapon … to protect humanity?

Purchase a copy here.

Read an excerpt.

{MORE ABOUT DAVID E. STEVENS}

A Navy fighter pilot with hundreds of aircraft carrier landings, Commander David E Stevens holds degrees from Cornell and the University of Michigan with graduate work in astrophysics. He test piloted new fighters and received an aviation patent. With a Top Secret clearance, Dave served as Strike Operations Officer for the Persian Gulf during Desert Storm and led classified defense programs. He’s traveled to over two dozen countries.

Find out more about David E. at http://www.resurrecttrilogy.com/.





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Monday, December 3, 2012

Surrender by Rhiannon Paille (Book Spotlight & $100 Gift Card Giveaway)



How far would you go to save everything you ever loved?

Kaliel was warned about her love for the Ferryman. One day he will marry the land and leave Avristar forever. She doesn't listen, and because of what she is-- a Flame-- one of nine apocalyptic weapons, she sparks a war. In a desperate attempt to save her home and her love, Kaliel tries to awaken Avred, not knowing she may have to make the ultimate sacrifice.



Purchase




Praise for Surrender:

"My head is still spinning a bit about the plot though because I can't believe it. It's better than ice cream for a break up. The plot was original, the characters were relatable and down to earth despite not living on Earth." - Courtney at Readable Charper

"Surrender is definitely full of emotion and will take you on an incredible journey through the eyes of these two incredible characters."
- Lucy at Moonlight Gleam

"Reading this book felt like reading a classic, but with everything I love in a book: romance, heartbreak, and lots of action! I would recommend this book to EVERYONE and then dare them not to fall in love with it!"
- Sammie Spencer, Author of Amaretto Flame

"Rhiannon Paille creates a unique and beautiful world that will draw you in and make you remember what it was like to be young, innocent, and full of wonder."
- Cory Putman Oakes, Author of The Veil

"Surrender is hands down one of my favorite fantasy books ever. YA or not, this is just pure awesomeness and every fantasy fan should read it. It's a delectable, rich in detail, numbingly brilliant and swoon-worthy read that you can't afford to miss out on."
- Evie at Bookish Evie



Author Rhiannon Paille:
Rhi was never a normal girl. Her life was an urban fantasy wrapped in a paranormal romance and served with a side of horror. To escape her everyday weirdness she began writing fantasy. She studied at U of Sedona and MIMT, obtaining a PhD in Metaphysical Science and Parapsychology. She's married to a chef/comic book shop owner and has a fondness for architecture.

Links:





Book Blast Giveaway:
$100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 12/12/12
*You need not enter your twitter name for each entry. Simply enter it for the first person you follow and leave the others blank.


Open to anyone who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent's permission. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


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Saturday, December 1, 2012

Just in Time for Christmas! Dead Running and Dying to Run Price Drop plus a $20 Gift Card Giveaway!!!



Cassidy Christensen is running.
Running from the mercenaries who killed her parents.
Running from a scheming redhead intent on making her life miserable.
Running from painful memories that sabotage her dreams of happiness.

With two very tempting men competing for her attention, she hopes she'll finally have someone to run to, but can she trust either of them? When secrets from her past threaten her family, Cassidy decides to stop running and fight for her future.

***


Cassidy Christensen wants to run.

Captured by the traffickers who killed her mother, her only hope is Dr. Tattoo, a man she loves but nobody trusts. When she finally gets a chance to run, someone else she cares about is taken. Running might be her only chance at survival, but she won’t allow another family member to be killed in her place.

This must-read sequel to Dead Running will have you laughing, biting your nails, and hoping for more.


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Author Cami Checketts

Cami Checketts is married and the proud mother of four future WWF champions. Sometimes between being a human horse, cleaning up magic potions, and reading Bernstein Bears, she gets the chance to write fiction.


Cami graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Exercise Science. Cami teaches strength training classes at her local rec and shares healthy living tips on her fitness blog: http://fitnessformom.blogspot.com.

Cami and her family live in the beautiful Cache Valley of Northern Utah. During the two months of the year it isn't snowing, she enjoys swimming, biking, running, and water-skiing.


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Price Drop Giveaway!
$20 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash from Author Cami Checketts
Ends 12/23/12
Open to anyone who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent's permission. The winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Friday, November 30, 2012

First Time: The Legend of Garison Fitch (Book Spotlight & Top Tens List)

Tour Schedule


"What if history didn't happen that way ... the first time?"

Garison Fitch was one of the most revered scientists in the Soviet Americas until he left fame behind to work on a secret project in his log cabin in the mountains of Marx.

But something went wrong. Instead of traveling interdimentionally, Garison has traveled through time ... twice.

Now, he's in something called "The United States of America" and a woman he's never met before is calling herself his wife. It it a hoax? Or, has he somehow changed history?

If so, can he return the world to what he believes is "normal", or must he live in this strange world he created?


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Praise:
"Sam continues to weave his magic as a storyteller. I always find myself anxious to find out what will happen next and what kind of twist will befall the adventurers. It helps to be familiar with the places that the heroines go, which adds to the story."
~Labdaddy, Texas

"I've had a few very unproductive but enjoyable days thanks to Samuel Ben White. If you haven't read Sam's books you have been missing a treat. These were funny, suspenseful, spiritual and kept you turning the pages."
~Karen S.

"Just wanted to say how much I have enjoyed your books. I have a Kindle and I have purchased all of the Garison Fitch novels. I am in Saudi Arabia and your books have really helped take me away from here."
~Scott, Saudi Arabia


Also Part of the Series:


Saving Time

Two years ago Garison Fitch traveled through time and rewrote history. An accident in the eighteenth century created a whole new world, and even gave Garison a wife he had never met before. Now, he’s got a daughter and he’s coming to enjoy this world he created. Until he’s attacked by men masquerading as Indians, and a funeral procession from out of the past enlists his help, and a tree grows from sappling to full-grown in a matter of minutes, threatening his daughter’s very life. Time itself is unraveling and Garison’s trips through time seem to be the cause. Garison must go back in time once again and keep himself from making the original trip that started the problem. But he can’t use his time machine to go back. How does one sew up a rip in time?





Lost Time

Jason Kerrigan and Brownwyn Dalmouth are pilots with the Republic of Texas Army Air Corps. A world war is going on and bombs have just brought an end to Crockett Air Field in south Texas. Jason and Bronwyn, though, are called away from the battle to be test pilots for a new aircraft that-they're told- will bring the war to an end. The experimental craft lives up to expectations in early tests, but then it lands them somewhere it never should have sent them. Another place? Another time? Another dimension? Somehow, they've taken a trip to the future and changed the past. Or did they? The answer to their change of reality may be known to a Justice of the Peace in Colorado named Garison Fitch. To figure it out, though, Garison may have to team up with his least favorite person: Bat Garrett.



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Kindle * Nook * Smashwords



Samuel's Top Ten Favorite Songs
10. Our Last Farewell by Dan Fogelberg
9. The Raiders March by John Williams
8. May It Be by Enya
7. The Call by Regina Spektor
6. Into the West by Annie Lennox
5. American Patrol by the Glenn Miller Orchestra
4. Our Town written by Randy Newman, performed by James Taylor
3. Peggy's Kitchen Wall by Bruce Cockburn
2. Hotel California by The Eagles
1. King of Hearts by Randy Stonehill



Author Samuel Ben White

Samuel Ben White (“Sam” to his friends) is the author of the national newspaper comic strip “Tuttle’s” (found at www.tuttles.net) and the on-line comic book “Burt & the I.L.S.” (found at www.destinyhelix.com). He is married and has two sons. He serves his community as both a minister at a small church and a chaplain with hospice. In addition to his time travel stories, Sam has also written and published detective novels, a western, three fantasy novels and four works of Christian fiction.





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Blog Tour Giveaway
$25 Amazon Gift Card
Ends 12/18/12
Open to anyone who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent's permission. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.





First Time: The Legend of Garison Fitch Tour Schedule:
http:// iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com/2012/10/first-time-blog-tour.html


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