River Rising by Athol Dickson

Athol Dickson's River Rising was the best summer read out of all the books I read. It's said to be Louisiana's To Kill a Mockingbird, and I believe it after reading it. Set in Louisiana in 1927, it's a novel that takes you back to slavery in a way you never anticipate. Reverend Hale Poser is the main character. He seems to rise out of the mist looking for his roots. Reared in an orphanage, he's searching for his past. When a child goes missing, he refuses to give up the search though others say it's no use. With nothing more than an old, leaky pirogue, he continues the search alone through the Louisiana swamp and bayous.  This is a book I'm glad I didn't miss. If you haven't read it, check it out. You won't be sorry. I loved it. No, it's not a romance novel, Kendra J. Published by Bethany House. Available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.com. I bought a beautiful hardback book for only one cent. The shipping cost more than the book. Barnes and Noble still has the hardback for one cent, so take advantage of it. June Foster said Athol Dickson is the author she'd most like to meet. If you would like this beautiful book, grab it for a penny. It's a beautifully woven story and a beautiful book inside and out.

Interview with June Foster from an RV Office

I'm happy to have June Foster with us today. She's sharing what it's like to be an author who travels in an RV. Both of her books are available at Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com, Kobo, Sony, etc.

Please check out Junes Author Page at Amazon and like it. You'll learn more about her there. Thanks. http://www.amazon.com/June-Foster/e/B007ISUMPK/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1344200980&sr=1-2-ent

Tell us about something that has just happened or is about to happen in your life that you would like to share.
Thank you for having me today, BJ. Though I'm not a sweet southern belle like you, I am from Texas.  I can tell you what has just happened. I think you know that my home is on wheels. My husband and I RV full time and I love it. However…... there are drawbacks.  As you know, a writer depends heavily on the internet. Though I have a Sprint air card, it doesn't always work everywhere. We are in a tiny town in Colorado called Coaldale.  When I found I wasn't picking up the internet at all, I panicked and drove my poor husband crazy. Now I'm spending my days in the RV office and using their wifi. The owner even gave me my own table, but the trick is remembering everything I need from my RV. It's worth the hassle of hauling my computer back and forth every day. My husband's doing the cooking. Yea.

What is the name of your most recent book and if you had to sum it up in 30 or less words, what would you say? A Hometown Fourth of July is my latest. It is a story based loosely on the real life situation of my husband's brother. The story charts a young adopted man's journey to finding his identity, not in his birthmother but in the Lord. Oops. A little over 30 words.

Tell the readers about your office and how you write best. Well, I never thought I'd be telling you about my temporary office here in the RV park headquarters. There are food items, souvenirs, cold drinks, and DVD's for sale. And behind the counter, the owners have a computer, a phone, and a desk.  Oh yeah. You meant my office in my RV. (smile) My dear husband took the couch out and replaced it with a table and two file cabinets on either side. The upside to this office is my view out my window changes monthly. I write best with quiet which I don't get in the RV or this office.

Do you have plans for a new book? Is this book part of a series? I'm finishing up Book three in the Bellewood Series, Deliver Us. Give Us This Day came out February 1, As We Forgive will be released September 1 with Desert Breeze, and the final book comes out April 1, 2013.

What books have influenced your writing? I think Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell and Donald Maas's Writing the Breakout Novel have helped me. Fay Lamb, the moderator of Scribes at ACFW, has taught me so much and influenced my writing.

Is there an Author that you would really like to meet? Yes, I'd love to meet Latayne Scott and Athol Dickson.

Do you prefer ebooks, paperbacks or hardcover? Since I don't have much room in my RV, reading ebooks on my Kindle is a god-send.

What book are you currently reading and in what format (ebook/paperback/hardcover)? I'm reading Dave Bond's A Time to Build published by Desert Breeze. It's in ebook format.

Do you have any advice for other writers? My advice is don't give up and try not to take rejections and criticism personally. Those are a few things I had to learn the hard way.
Below are links for both of June's books through Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Bellewood-Book-One-Give-ebook/dp/B0073NE9KO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1344200800&sr=8-2&keywords=june+foster

http://www.amazon.com/A-Hometown-Fourth-July-ebook/dp/B008GI61GU/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1344200910&sr=1-1&keywords=june+foster

Relentless Pursuit by Kathy Herman

You've all heard of saving the best for last. Well that's exactly what Kathy Herman has done. Her latest novel Relentless Pursuit: A Novel (Secrets of Roux River Bayou) is her best yet. I loved the first two in the series, but this one was the best, the way a series should be. I read it right before a vacation to Grand Isle, Louisiana. When you read the book, you'll see how that might get you thinking. My son told me to bring water with us. That was before I'd read the novel. All I can say is it was profound. I don't want to provide any spoilers, but you can't help but care about these characters. You can't help but put yourself in their place and think how you'd feel and how the problems in this novel could affect you and yours. You'll connect and identify, so be sure you don't miss this one. A Cajun-flavored South threatened by a bio-terrorist will keep you turning pages. Reading this novel will make you think twice. It's five stars for sure.

Weeping Willows Short Story by B. J. Robinson

New Release: I've self-published my first piece of work on Amazon, a short story. I spent the day working on it yesterday. I'd written the story before vacation, but I had to have a cover made and learn how to publish it. It's available today for people who have Kindles, but it's not just for those who own a Kindle. Anyone can download a free Kindle app from Amazon.com for the PC, ipad, iphone, ipod, tablet, etc. Check out my new short story set in Louisiana. Louisiana is well known for haunted plantations. On one summer vacation, we visited a couple considered to be haunted. I developed the short story from these memories along with early childhood memories and my writer's imagination. It's only 99 cents at Amazon, so check it out. I had a productive day yesterday, and may you have one today. Used childhood memories and a writer's imagination. Travel light. No need to dust virtual bookshelves.  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008OM26DU

Shoe Marks by Karen Vance Hammond

Shoe Marks by Karen Vance Hammond is a full-length paranormal experience, a haunting ghost tale that doesn't let go. I normally don't read this type of book, but I have always liked old homes and as a kid enjoyed ghost stories, so when I saw it was based on a real event, I decided to try it, and I don't regret reading it. It's an easy read with Maggie as the main ghost. She was murdered, so she remains in her home even after years have passed. You're pulled into the story easily, and come to care about the main characters. There's a surprise twist at the end, and I loved it. If you enjoy ghost and haunted house stories, don't miss this one. Shoe marks spew blood. A rocking chair rocks by itself, and a door open and closes without any help. These are a few small things that happen. When the new owner, Jeremy and is wife are blamed for murder, how will they defend themselves against a ghost? They've spent their savings to pay cash for this home, what they believed to be a historical landmark. Will they ever find peace in it? Just try to sleep tight and don't let the ghosts bite. You won't want to put the book down until you find out what happens, so be prepared for a nail-biting climax.

Echo of an Earth Angel by Sarah M. Ross

Echo of an Earth Angel by Sarah M. Ross is the second novel in her series, a page turner. It's an easy read, and I can't wait to see what happens in the next novel. Ms. Ross leaves off like a soap opera. You can't help but care what happens to the characters. I fell in love with the main characters and enjoyed the secondary characters as well. Tessa is the main character, and David heals her when she's shot to save her life. He heals her too quickly and too much, and she wakes up an angel, too. The book has a unique plot. I don't usually read this type of novel, but I also enjoyed Awaken, the first novel in the series. The book gains tension and leaves you hanging with a cliffhanger. Tessa is determined to get him back or die trying. David fell for her, and she's fallen for him so hard she risks her life, as she knows it, to save him, though he warned her to just be patient and wait for him, that he'd return one day. I'm looking forward to the third novel to see what happens to them next. You can't help but feel the love these two characters have for each other. Though I normally don't like books that leave me hanging because I like closure, I will be awaiting the third one in this series.

Lost in the Bayou by Cornell DeVille

Lost in the Bayou by Cornell DeVille is a YA suspense set in Louisiana. I stumbled across it and bought it because it was a Louisiana novel, and I devoured it. A young boy and girl have to outsmart an evil, jealous uncle when their mother and father's plane goes down in the bayou. This is a page-turning fast read. The descriptions are vivid and to savor.  The crazed uncle has envied his brother all of his life and will stop at nothing to inherit the estate, even if it means killing his niece and nephew. Set in the sixties, you'll notice threads of the historical era and with a little imagination, the vivid writing will suck you right into the bayou and swamp. There's an old cypress tree, limbless and surrounded by quick sand. DeVille is a baby boomer who was influenced by the great storytellers such as Walt Disney, Alfred Hitchcock, Edgar Allen Poe, and O. Henry among others. He's on Facebook as Author Cornell DeVille. If you have a young girl or boy in your life, this is the book to pull them into another world where they become the rescuers.

Out of Time by Michelle Sutton

A theme that runs throughout the novel is temptation before marriage. Though the heroine wishes to remain pure until marriage, there are steamy scenes that illustrate how hard it can be to remain pure until marriage. This is a Christian/inspirational romance novel about a race car driver, Donny. Bree, has moved into her uncle's house to start a new life, find a job, and move on. She finds a handsome race car driver in the process, and he's right next door. It provides a glimpse into the worlds of racing and the wealthy. When she gets too much sun trying to acquire a quick tan, she meets him in an unexpected way. Donny has a friend named Jason who is a believer. He and his wife befriend Bree and offer their support and encouragement. Bree struggles with feeling she can't compete with the many beautiful women in Donny's past and when one shows up on his doorstep, it doesn't help. A plot to keep Donny from winning a race could cost him his life. Can Bree stop him from racing? Will he listen? If not, she'll have to take drastic measures. When she does, will those measures ruin the relationship she's built with him? A man's car can be his baby. Donny's isn't just a car, but his prized race car. What will happen? Can their love survive? Bree is running out of time. What will she do? Read OUT OF TIME and find out. 

The Next Big Thing Blog

1.      What is the title of your book/WIP?

Whispering Cypress

2.      Where did the idea for the book come from?

Camping and falling in love with beautiful campgrounds. I love nature, the woods, flowers, trees, birds, animals, and camping.

3. What genre would your book fall under? Inspirational Romantic Suspense

4.      Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

Meg Ryan or Jennifer Aniston with Tom Hanks or Jim Carrey

5. What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book? After a decade of no contact, a woman purchases the campground a man from her past dreams of owning and hires him to repair and remodel the cabins.

6. Is your book published or represented? Releases August 11 from Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc.

7. How long did it take you to write? About six months.

8. What other books within your genre would you compare it to?  I have an Amazon reviewer who says my other two novels are comparable to Terri Blackstock, Collen Coble, and Brandilyn Collins, but I've only read Brandilyn Collins.

9. Which authors inspired you to write this book? Eva Marie Everson, Naomi Musch, Lynn Austin, Nicholas Sparks.

10. Tell us anything else that might pique our interest in your book.

You'll never have peace here. Leave the past where it belongs, or it will ruin you.

Spring Showers stared at the cutout newspaper letters pasted on a sheet of typing paper. Her heart pounded harder than any nail gun, and she placed her hand over her chest as if to still it. Nothing about the rundown campground prepared her for such a threat. Who could possibly care if she restored it?

After a decade of no contact, she purchases the campground a man from her past dreams of owning and hires him to repair and remodel the cabins. She still has feelings for him, and the sparks are still there -- smoldering like embers from a left-over campfire. A male friend from the city visits and trouble brews. A girl is attacked. Hackett is arrested. Did authorities arrest the right man? The girl is pregnant -- who is the father?

Going Green with Clean! by Valerie L. Strawmier

Going Green with Clean! Homemade Cleaning Products Using Green Recipes by Valerie L. Strawmier is a new release at Amazon.com, a short, easy read, full of recipes to save you money and keep you and your family healthy. I read it this morning and found products that most homes contain, such as baking soda, vinegar, salt, lemons, and hydrogen peroxide that can be used to make your own cleaning products. Your family's health is of the utmost importance, not to mention saving money on your grocery bill. I don't know about you, but I know what runs mine up, and it's usually the cleaning products. Why not cut your grocery bill and protect your family's health at the same time? Spending $4.99 today might save you much more in the long run.. I urge you to see for yourself. Now, I've always known about vinegar being used for cleaning, but this little book contains product recipes for cleaning from such items as cream of tartar, Borax, and even tea-tree oil that I never knew about. There are also many more uses for simple items that I wasn't aware of, so if you're looking to save money on cleaning, this is the book for you. Check it out at http://www.amazon.com/Homemade-Cleaning-Products-Recipes-ebook/dp/B008FCRIT6/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1340874163&sr=8-3-fkmr1&keywords=Going+green+with+clean+by+valerie+l+strawmier. Spending a few dollars here might save you many in the long run. Open Going Green with Clean and find the treasures you may have in your own home and the true value they can offer.

Everglades by Petie McCarty

Everglades by Petie McCarty is a novel set in the Florida Everglades that you won't want to put down because it entwines action, adventure, romance, and nature, blending them together in such a way that you have a unique read. I felt like I was riding on an airboat through the river of grass. The author does a wonderful job with detail and description that pull you right into an adventure with Kayli Heddon, a photo journalist who takes a tour boat journey with Skye Landers, a Seminole Indian guide, or so she thinks. Throw Clay Jameson, a shallow, self-serving, political guy into the mix. He insists over and over that Kayli is his girlfriend, but no matter how many times he says it, he can't convince her. Just when you think this book can't get any better, it does. Just when you think it's winding down, it spirals back up again and has you sitting on the edge of your seat with bated breath. Vivid description, awesome details, a hunk of a tour boat guide, a spitfire of a woman who forgets her ladylike ways with the air hitting her face as she glides through Big Cypress Bend on an airboat. Kayli falls head over heels for Syke, but an unexpected beautiful blonde with a Southern drawl appears. Guns, knives, snakes, drug dealers, a legendary cat and uncle, cousins who bring trouble to the camp that's supposed to be hidden so well in the Everglades that no one can find it, and you've got a read like never before. I love how this novel makes you feel like you're right there in the thick of things with Kayli. Without hesitation, I rate it five stars, and I've found another author I love. This is one ride you don't want to miss.

Echo of an Earth Angel by Sarah M. Ross

Echo of an Earth Angel is now Available!!! Sarah M. Ross, author of Awaken, has released her new Young Adult Paranormal novel. Echo of an Earth Angel (Book 1 of the Earth Angel Trilogy) is now available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Smashwords. The first novel in the series, Awaken is available for free Wednesday and Thursday only, so grab your free copy. About the Book: 18 year old Tessa Copeland barely survived the worst year of her life—in fact, it was a miracle. After making it through the tragedy that killed both of her parents, she’s left to pick up the pieces of her life. Combating the holes in her memory and the concern of her friends was hard enough, but a new talent threatens to destroy everything she’s trying to reclaim. David Allegri didn’t mean to ruin Tessa’s life. She was the brightest soul he’d seen in centuries and he couldn’t let her die, so the fallen angel used his abilities to heal her—only he took it too far and changed Tessa forever. Now, he has to figure out a way to explain what’s happening to Tessa and somehow protect both of them from the consequences. His choice made them targets for the Hunters, who will use any means necessary to capture their prey. Only a desperate plan can help them escape, and sacrifices will be made. Time is ticking. Will they make it, or will they be lost to the echoes of fate? PRICE: $2.99 for ebook $11.99 for Paperbacks. (Autographed copies available at www.sarahmross.com) About the Author: I started my obsession with reading at an early age, getting in trouble for sneaking BabySitter Club and Nancy Drew books into math class in elementary school. I would read any fiction book I could get my hands on. I knew it was an addiction when instead of grounding me from TV or music, my mom would take away my books as punishment (The Horror!). My love of all things paranormal was inspired by my good friend Laurie, who convinced me that books with vampires, witches, and all things shifter were amazing. After a little reluctance, I gave it a shot with the Sookie Stackhouse books, realized she was right, and the rest was history. I grew up in Pittsburgh, graduated from The University of Pittsburgh with my degree in English, and taught 8th graders to love reading as much as I do for several years. I will always be a proud member of the Steelers Nation, but I couldn't take the cold and moved my frozen tush to Florida where I now live with my family and two cats. You will find me now with my trusty Kindle in hand and toes in the sand! When I'm not writing or reading, I am probably partaking in my favorite vice: sunbathing. I know it's wrong, but I love the feeling on the hot sun on my skin and could lay in it for hours. I do live in Florida for a reason! Please feel free to contact me! Website- http://www.sarahmross.com Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/SarahtheAuthor Twitter- http://twitter.com/#!/SarahtheAuthor

First time Last Resort is available for 99 cents. Only two more days to snag this bargain at Amazon.com. Sale ends May 31. If you don't have a Kindle, you can download a free Kindle app. Take advantage of the low price, it's a terrific read for a buck. Romance, mystery, suspense, intrigue, gun safety, eating disorders, nature, swimming, strawberries, and so much more. Faith tore out of the jail's parking lot and prayed she wouldn't get a ticket. She turned Old Blue into the flowing traffic. Her heart pumped faster than a race car engine. Dear God, please don't let me be too late. She reached down and punched Matt's number again. Come on, Matt, where are you? Pick up. Still no answer. She snapped the phone shut and focused on the road ahead. Who could possibly have it in for him? He was such a great guy. She gassed the truck as she passed the city limits and left the jail behind. Why wasn't he answering? She'd never had a problem before. This wasn't like him. Extra, extra, read all about it!! LAST RESORT IS ONLY 99 CENTS through Amazon for one week only. Take advantage of the 99 cent sales and mop up for a great Memorial Day weekend read. Southern Superstitions is only $4.61, so you could grab both for the price of one. Two for one while it lasts, through the end of the month. Get them at a deal. Get them at a steal. http://www.amazon.com/Last-Resort-ebook/dp/B005CQ7JQK/ref=sr_1_9?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1337934187&sr=1-9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juwF0dLLX6M&feature=youtu.be Go snag Last Resort by B. J. Robinson for 99 cents while you can. You'll get your money's worth. You might want to pick up Southern Superstitions for only $4.61 and get a sweat deal of two books for the price of one. Check out the reviews on Amazon for both. Happy reading!

A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks

A colleague told me about this wonderful book, and I read this YA novel of 13 chapters quickly. I thought I'd never find another novel on par with The Notebook, but this one is close, and I have to give it five stars. It's a heart wringer about two young adults. One is a girl who is considered weird because she carries her Bible around and sits alone in a corner reading it during lunch at school. When the young man she really likes gets around to asking her to the prom she tells him she'll go to the dance with him, but he can't fall in love with her. He had no intentions of doing so, but sometimes things happen that we think couldn't possibly. Could this be one? She's a Christian, and she's not ashamed to show it. She's lost her mother and lives with her father who is the local Baptist preacher. If you haven't tried Nicholas Sparks's YA novels, and you like Christian YA, you'll love this one. If you have a YA and would like to gift her with a book she'll enjoy by an author with a unique writing style, check out A WALK TO REMEMBER. I'm so glad my friend told me about it. I loved it and wouldn't have wanted to miss it. You don't want to either. It's a great, touching read and is available in both paperback and eBook formats.

The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks is 38 chapters and an epilogue about an ex-marine, Logan Thibault, who is deemed the lucky one by his friends, especially his best friend Victor. Victor tells him the picture he finds will bring him good luck, and so he carries a picture of an unknown woman around in his pocket during his time in Iraq. When his tour is up, he walks from Colorado to Hampton, North Carolina, to find this unknown woman. I thought he’d take a plane or at least a train, since he obviously has waited so long to find her. It reminded me of The Walk. With the publication of The Notebook, I became a fan and love his writing style, but I didn’t find this novel equal to The Notebook. It just didn't measure up in depth. Elizabeth, called Beth by everyone but her dead brother and Logan, is Nana’s granddaughter, and the woman Logan is out to find. Logan stumbles upon a job at a dog kennel owned by Nana as he searches for the woman. Sparks did an excellent job with Nana’s character, and she was my favorite one. She brought humor to the story which reminded me of the mother in a novel I wrote. It didn’t bother me that he used clichés in dialogue because that’s the way many people speak, though I saw a reviewer didn’t like it. I love books that use them appropriately in dialogue to bring out the true character and the way people actually speak, as a character in one of my own novels. One of the most touching parts was the boating scene with his friend Victor. The ending scene could have been better, but felt rushed and lacked the emotion of the boating scene. Sparks needed to show us what happened to Thibault and Clayton. Show, don’t tell when it comes to major action and scenes. It would have made for a much stronger ending, but overall I enjoyed the story and felt he did a good job. Flashbacks don’t bother me either, as I saw they did another reviewer. I used them in one of my novels, the one with the mother and her clichés. Such clichés create memorable characters. I could just visualize Nana. Through the foreshadowing, one can predict the ending easily. The difference with my novel is my foreshadowing doesn’t give away the ending. I love Sparks novels and will continue to read him, but I don’t know if he’ll ever write an equal to The Notebook in my eyes. I gave The Notebook a five, so I have to rate this one as a four.

Good vs. Evil in Death Cheater by Danielle Thorne

I don't know about you, but I love unique books,different from anything I've ever read and this is one. I don't normally read this type of novel, as I'm more into romantic suspense, but I truly loved Death Cheater. Athena Gray has a hard time building relationships because of her gift. Dan is the only boy she's felt comfortable around, and she begins to build hope. Then a butterfly in a collection returns from the dead and disappears. This nearly dissolves their relationship, since it was in a display case at his house and belonged to his brother, a collector's item. She lives with her older sister who is busy with college and work, so she's mostly on her own. A tale of good versus evil shows an evil person with his own agenda. He demands she help him, or her family and Dan will pay. Can Athena find a way to release his hold on her without endangering those she loves? The woods behind the high school are deep, dark, and mysterious, woods she once loved and found comfort in until the evil one appeared with his hounds. She enjoyed walking home from school beneath their leafy cover until he runied her special place. Dan offers to help, but she doesn't want to involve him anymore than he is for fear of what might happen to him. When she finds her sister has disappeared, she has no choice. Will this be the biggest mistake she ever makes? Her sister's life hangs in the balance. Vivid description pulls you into the story, and I loved the way she took care of the mean girls in the restroom, the ones who told her she couldn't use "their" restroom anymore. Athena will use it to her heart's content, and she won't back down. Available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Sony, and Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc.

Goodbye Noel by Nike Chillemi

Goodbye Noel by Nike Chillemi is the second novel in her Sanctuary Point series. Burning Hearts is the first. Katrina Lenart and Ian Daltry meet in front of a Christmas tree with a dead body. An infant crying down the hall makes Katrina vow to keep it safe, but can she? This isn’t the only body discovered. Ian is the police detective investigating the murders. He lost his first wife. Will he lose Katrina, too, just as he realizes he’s in love with her? Will Katrina even be allowed to keep the baby when it has a father? Christian fiction with a good plot and interesting setting allows for an enjoyable read. If you’ve ever wanted to adopt a child, you’ll identify with this book and Katrina’s feelings and emotions. The author writes with vivid description and details that make the story realistic and allows us a glimpse of certain types of religious meetings. I enjoyed both novels and look forward to her third in the series.Both books can stand alone, but if you're like me and enjoy reading novels in a series in order, you'll want to read Burning Hearts first. Check out these books and their reviews at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, and Sony, or wherever fine eBooks are sold. You can even enjoy PDF files to read on a computer or laptop from the publisher, Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc.

Give Us This Day by June Foster

Bellewood Book One: Give Us This Day by June Foster released February 1, 2012, from Desert Breeze Publishing Inc. A hero with a food addiction, Jess Colton, meets Holly Harrison in an elevator. She's captivated with his pale blue eyes and sees more than his outward appearance. Holly hides her own disability. This beautifully written novel was sprung from a retired schoolteacher, and I will want to read more of her writing. Her simple style is elegant and she has impressed me with the plot. Jess battles with his weight and feels he can’t offer himself to Holly though he loves her. He doesn’t want to tie her down to a man with health issues. Holly feels Jeff couldn’t possibly love her because of her own handicap. She hides it when he wants to walk on the beach with her and asks her to take off her shoes so they can feel the sand between their toes. She knows she’ll eventually have to show and tell, but will the time ever be right? Holly has been berated by her sister who tells her God could never forgive her, but Jess says He has. A health crisis rips the two further apart right after Holly gets up the nerve to come clean and show her disability to Jess. His sister doesn’t want Holly around her brother until he’s in a coma and Holly prays with her. This novel is a heart-touching story of love, forgiveness, and what God can do when you let Him. I highly recommend it for anyone who may be battling food addiction. Jess gave up one addiction for another until he let God help him. This novel is spun gold. We are all flawed humans in one way or another, all works-in-progress. I so enjoyed the method in which June Foster brings the pieces of flawed human nature together to create a touching story of love you’ll remember after closing your eBook. Available wherever fine eBooks are sold.

Land of Misfit Teens by Katie Charles

Land of Misfit Teens by Katie Charles is a YA book by a brand new nineteen-year-old author who has penned a tale worth sharing, published by Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. December 1, 2011. Amelia MacDonald not only loses her mother to cancer, but loses her home and her friends at school as well, when her father loses his job. The only teaching job he's able to land is located in gang land, Chicago. It isn't long until Amelia forms a new circle of friends and falls for a musical hunk. She not only has to deal with gangs at school, but also at the apartment she now calls home. The author does a great job with the plot. Though there were a few mistakes, they didn't distract me from the storyline. She captures the teens as realistic and believable right down to their lack of self confidence, being in love and afraid to tell, and the turmoil that some teens must endure. I enjoyed this story of sweet, innocent young love. Her dad is all she has left. Will two rival gangs take him and her new love from her as well. Amelia has lost so much in life so young. When gun shots blast school hallways she finds herself trapped with no place to hide. Her locker has been tagged by one gang. Which gang will find her first and will it even matter? I found the Scottish traditions interesting and the fact that being Scottish she called her father, Da. http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-253/Land-of-Misfit-Teens/Detail.bok Also available as an eBook at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony, and Kobo.

A New Type of Vampire Story by Sarah M. Ross, AWAKEN

Sarah M. Ross has created a unique type of vampire story in Awaken. I'm not a fan of such stories, but I enjoyed reading this one. It's 19 chapters with vivid description. I loved the way the author described the hero's eyes. I like to use eyes and vivid description of them myself. She's used original wording and coined a new phrase. The ending of this novel will make you hunger for the next. I loved the way she ended it like a good soap opera and left readers on the edge of their seats awaiting the next serial, Avenge. It's a short, easy read, a light one, so if you're looking for a weekend read, check out Awaken. It might keep you awake wanting to discover what happens next.

http://www.amazon.com/Awaken-The-Patronus-ebook/dp/B0070CFHTA/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1328395961&sr=1-3

Fudge-Laced Felonies by Cynthia Hickey

http://cynthiahickey.blogspot.com/
Fudge Laced Felonies is the first novel in the Summer Meadows series of three. I loved the first two and can't wait to read the third. This one is only 99 cents at Amazon.com right now, so jump on it!

*Don't miss the cover art in the pictures to the side. Click on book cover to go to author's site.

From the lead, “I marched into church on Sunday – not to search for God, but to find a killer,” spunky heroine Summer Meadows captures your heart with humor even in the darkest situations, as you journey with her to solve a diamond mystery. A light, easy read, this page turner takes you into the Ozark foothills. Set in a small town, Summer owns a candy store and is up to her wrists in chocolate, when she’s not knee deep in trouble playing detective.

Hooked from the lead, I was riveted in the mystery and completed the novel in several readings. When interrupted, I couldn’t wait to return to Summer’s world of chocolate, diamonds, and mystery.

Rich with fresh similes and metaphors, readers savor a taste of Southern grit as two handsome men compete for Summer’s attention, but only one of them truly loves her. She must decide between Man of God, Ethan, with rough, working hands, or smooth-talking Nate with hands softer than her own. Nate says all the right things while Ethan teases like a childhood friend, leading Summer to believe that he thinks of her as a sister. Then there’s beautiful Terri Sue who once dated Ethan and attempts to pick up where she left off. Summer knows her natural beauty can’t complete with her store-bought façade.

Summer is down-to-earth, but feisty. Used to being in control, she has to learn to let God guide her steps and relinquish control to the One who can make an eternal difference in her life. She’s a Christian who attends church every Sunday, but grows in her faith through her struggles and learns to depend on God to see her through.

Have you ever treasured your flower garden and thought it worth gold? Summer’s rose garden is worth a small fortune in cash and diamonds, and she must solve the mystery of who killed her prized rose bush before she ends up a dead summer flower.

Candy-Coated Secrets is the second book in the Fudge-Laced Felonies series – Heartsong Presents. If you love humor and mystery entwined, snag both books for great summer reads. See http://cynthiahickey.blogspot.com/ for more information. ISBN-978-1-60260-181-9, $6.95 paperback, 244 pages, 22 chapters of love and mystery.

If you need bookmarks, check out Cindy's site! For fun cozy mysteries and riveting romantic suspense, check out her Summer Meadows mysteries.


http://www.amazon.com/Fudge-Laced-Felonies-Meadows-Mystery-ebook/product-reviews/B005UHJ04U/ref=sr_1_1_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1

Candy Coated Secrets by Cynthia Hickey

Candy Coated Secrets is the second novel in the Summer Meadows series by Cynthia Hickey. Summer meadows, doesn't that sound so visually appealing and soothing? When the circus comes to town and Summer finds herself escorting an escaped elephant, you'll laugh at the humor and fun, but you'll also enjoy the mystery. Cynthia has a flair for humor , and her cozy mysteries are unique. The first novel in the series is Fudge Laced Felonies, and I love her opening line. In Candy Coated Secrets, Summer has difficulty keeping herself out of trouble. She doesn't look for it, but trouble has a way of finding her. If you like mystery, humor, and romance entwined, you'll love this novel, and you won't want to miss her first one, or the third one in the series. I can't wait to read it next!. You'll be entertained and that's a promise.

http://www.amazon.com/Candy-Coated-Secrets-Meadows-Mystery-ebook/dp/B005VGN0E6/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1328372283&sr=1-1

Faith in the Shadows by Sadie and Sophie Cuffe

Faith in the Shadows by Sadie and Sophie Cuffe, published November 2011 by Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. the first book in The Wainwright Trilogy. It's seventeen touching chapters and an epilogue, a sweet, inspirational novel that will touch your heart. Alice Wainwright is a spinster, and she blames it on her purple-splotched birthmark that Joshua, a man who claims he wants to marry her, finds hideous. She feels branded and marked for life as a spinster no man in his right mine could love until a blind war veteran, Hawk deems her beautiful and appreciates her. Still, she worries if he regains his sight, he'll also find her hideous. Meanwhile, Joshua presses her to marry, but she sees through him, and Hawk warns her about him. Hawk is proud and doesn't want to burden Alice or his family. Through the unfolding of their story, your heart will melt, and you'll want Alice to end up with Hawk, but will she? Joshua doesn't seem to give up. There's a surprise before the end. Don't want t spoil it, but the authors did a great job with it, and I loved it. If you like a short, inspiring read, this one is for you. The Cuffe sisters do a grand job scheming this plot together. Discover for yourself. It's a five-star short novel in my book.

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-225/The-Wainright-Trilogy-Book/Detail.bok

Sweetest Blog Award

Doesn't this strawberry chantilly pie look yummy? The Southern Christian Inspirational Fiction blog was nominated by author Stepanie Burkhart. Stephanie Burkhart's "The Count's Lair" is a 2011 Silver Award Winner in the Romance: Sci-Fi/Fantasy category from Reader's Favorites. Visit her blog, Desert Breeze Publishing Blog at http://desertbreezepublishing.blogspot.com/
Since the rules for this award say that I have to nominate at least ten other blogs, and tell you seven things you may not know about Southern Christian Inspirational Fiction. Here goes:

I nominate the following blogs:

RITA GARCIA, http://www.reflectionswithdrrita.com/ A beautiful inspirational blog.

NAN TRAMMELL JONES, http://www.thereigningjewels.com/2011/05/nancy-nan-trammell-jones-shines-a-little-light-.html Nan has more than one blog. I love her Morning Glory one, devotionals.

NAOMI MUSCH, http://www.naomimusch.com/empireinpineseries.htm, Read, loved, and reviewed THE GREEN VEIL AND THE RED FURY. You won't forget her characters, and I love her vivid description.

EVA MARIE EVERSON, http://evamarieeversonssouthernvoice.blogspot.com/ A Southern writer, and I love her novels. She's also my writing mentor from The Christian Writers Guild. Check out her Cedar Key series, THINGS LEFT UNSPOKEN, etc. One of her novels is being made into a movie!

LISA BUFFALOE, http://lisabuffaloe.blogspot.com/ Beautiful inspirations.

DOLORES AYOTTE, http://doloresayotte.wordpress.com/ She's a self-help author. Visit her blog and check out her books.

NIKE CHILLEMI, http://nikechillemi.wordpress.com/ READ, LOVED, AND REVIEWED BURNING HEARTS. LOVE THE BOOK COVER TO GOODBYE NOEL and looking forward to reading it, too.

SHAWNA K. WILLIAMS, http://shawnakwilliams.com/ She has a series of novels, and I love them all. NO OTHER, THE GOOD FIGHT, to name a couple.

DANIELLE THORNE, The Balanced Writer:http://thebalancedwriter.blogspot.com, Read loved and reviewed TURTLE SOUP AND BY HEART AND COMPASS.

ANNE PATRICK, http://suspensebyanne.blogspot.com/2012/01/angela-britnell-interview-giveaway.html, Read, loved, and reviewed FIRE AND ASH.

MELANIE ATKINS: http://melanieatkins.wordpress.com/ Love her novels.

The CUFFE SISTERS, Off the Cuffe, http://cuffesisters.com/off-the-cuffe/ I am presently reading FAITH IN THE SHADOWS, their latest novel, and loving it. Look for the review here on my blog soon!

I'm supposed to tell readers seven things about my blog they don't know, so here goes:

7 Things about Southern Christian Inspirational Fiction Blog:

1. I started this blog when I started writing LAST RESORT,my romantic suspense novel, when it was tentatively titled HIDDEN TREASURES, THEN TRUE HIDDEN TREASURES, and it became LAST RESORT after three years of work.

2. I've posted some of my personal writing on this blog, but you'd have to scroll to locate it. I've been writing since the third grade when my teacher submitted my pet story to a local newspaper, and it was published. I still love dogs, and I still write about them. Sunflower, my golden cocker spaniel is a character in my novel LAST RESORT.

3. I have posted pictures on this blog from vacations, but you'd have to scroll to find them.

4. I have read, loved, and reviewed many great books by many great authors on this blog and will continue to do so. My latest novel SOUTHERN SUPERSTITONS was developed from my first-prize winning short story and if you click on the book cover of THE LORD HAS SOMETHING BETTER IN MIND, you can download it for free from my publisher, and it is the companion to my latest release SOUTHERN SUPERSTITIONS.

5. You can always find my latest novel news and book covers by visiting.

6. You can also win free novels by following. I draw and send books to readers several times each year.

7. You will find pictures of my children and pets if you scroll through the blog.

By Heart and Compass by Danielle Thorne

By Heart and Compass by Danielle Thorne is a sweet, contemporary novel published by Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. in July 2010. If you love the sea, the ocean, nature, boats, hidden treasure, old homes, pirates, and their ships, this novel is the read for you! Did I mention diving and the beautiful turquoise water? Not to mention the dive bum, Max Bertrand, who has eyes as deep and turquoise as the water. Lacy Whitman lives in the past, loves history, and is picking up where her father left off, trying to discover a missing pirate ship. She restores an old Victorian home in Georgia and discovers an antique diary. Will it lead her back to the sea and the dive bum she once encountered and has tried to forget? Lacy is a determined character who follows her father's advice of letting her heart be her compass. I love the vivid description, and the ending was glorious and unexpected. What hidden treasure will Lacy Whitman ultimately discover? I love the title and how it fits perfectly with this story. Check out Danielle's TURTLE SOUP, a novel I read, loved, and reviewed on my blog some time ago. If you scroll down, you'll find the review. Available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.com as well as from the publisher, Desert Breeze.

New Release Southern Superstitions by B. J. Robinson

Southern Superstitions began as a short story years ago when I was in college attending Southeastern Louisiana University. It won first prize in fiction-writing competition and years later I developed it into a full-length novel. The altered prize-winning short story is available as a free download at Desert Breeze, the companion to Southern Superstitions. Check out the two books on my publisher's homepage. Southern Superstitions and its companion are side-by-side, and you can get two books for one, since the companion book is free. http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/StoreFront.bokIt was necessary to make some changes in the process of expanding it into a novel, but June, Andy, and Myrtle are the same characters and the novel begins with the altered short story which was published in the university's literary magazine and ran as a three-part series on the front page of my hometown newspaper. Since then, the short story has been published in other local newspapers and an online magazine, as it was originally written. Read a free excerpt at http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-249/Southern-Superstition-BJ-Robinson/Detail.bok.

Prayer versus Southern superstitions when a woman's husband mysteriously disappears in the swamp on a deer-hunting trip. Reviewer Kathy Boswell says, "Very good! She never gives up hope that Andy will return to her someday. She puts it all in God's hands like she's done every crisis in her lie. She knows He will take care of this for her." As steamy as the hot, thick, sticky heat of Louisiana, this page-turner will keep readers in suspense, as the author spins a tale of love, loss, superstition, pain, heartache, and faith in God. God and the power of prayer versus Southern superstitions. Through belief, faith, hard work, the power of prayer, and God's help, this powerful, moving story is a thought-provoking Christian romantic suspense about a young couple who fall in love, but have to change her mother's mind in more ways than one, if their relationship is to survive. Can Andy convince June there's more to their relationship than friends? Will he win the approval of Myrtle, her mother, and can love survive strawberry season and an April flood? Will June be able to give Andy a child?

The weirdest superstition Mom ever told and one I've never heard elsewhere is if you plant a cedar tree, when it grows big enough to shade your grave you'll die. Will Andy die in Southern Superstitions? I'm sure you've heard the traditional superstitions about opening umbrellas inside a house and such, but Mom had a few more. Oh, and the one about black cats, let's just say that was a favorite. In Southern Superstitions, you'll encounter what Myrtle believes is bad luck caused by a black cat. Will the white cat Andy gives her counteract it?

Read the first two chapters free at http://www.amazon.com/Southern-Superstitions-ebook/dp/B006X8GAWA/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326620592&sr=1-6Southern Superstions. I found it interesting that a reader told me in England, black cats are considered good luck. Too bad my mother never heard that one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNoo962DbF0&feature=share View book trailer here.

Click on book cover to the side to read a free excerpt.

B. J. Robinson writes inspirational Christian fiction in the romantic suspense genre from Florida, where she lives with her husband, a cat named Frankie, a cocker spaniel named Sunflower, and a golden retriever named Honi. Her children are grown and have made her a grandmother multiple times. She promises to take her readers on a continuous journey to another world. Reading and writing are her passions, and Jesus is her best friend. Last Resort released July 15 and Whispering Cypress is next on the horizon and will release August 15. It's not about strawberries.

Southern Superstitions by B. J. Robinson

Author B. J. Robinson was reared on strawberries, God's Word, and southern superstitions. While you've probably heard traditional superstitions like walking under a ladder and opening an umbrella inside a house is bad luck, June's mother in this novel has some you've probably never heard of. I'm sure you've heard black cats are bad luck. Well, Myrtle, her mother thinks so. You'll encounter a black cat and a white one during the course of this story, and you'll discover some silly superstitions along the way. June believes in God's Word, not luck or superstitions, but her mother is a different story. Is there any changing her mind?

This novel was written over a decade ago, reworked, and rewritten to become a brand new story with an entirely different ending. Take a trip down South into the Louisiana swamps and bayous and decide for yourself. Do you believe in southern superstitions?

Prayer versus Southern superstitions when a woman's husband mysteriously disappears in the swamp on a deer-hunting trip. As steamy as the hot, thick, sticky heat of Louisiana, this page-turner will keep readers in suspense, as the author spins a tale of love, loss, superstition, pain, heartache, and faith in God. Reviewer Kathy Boswell says, "Very good! She never gives up hope that Andy will return to her someday. She puts it all in God's hands like she'd done every crisis in her life. She knows He will take care of this for her." God and the power of prayer versus Southern superstitions. Through belief, faith, hard work, the power of prayer, and God's help, this powerful, moving story is a thought-provoking Christian romantic suspense about a young couple who fall in love, but have to change her mother's mind in more ways than one, if their relationship is to survive. Can Andy convince June there's more to their relationship than friends? Will he win the approval of Myrtle, her mother, and can love survive strawberry season and an April flood? Will June be able to give Andy a child?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNoo962DbF0&feature=share View book trailer here.

Click on book cover to the side to read a free excerpt.


Better yet, read two free chapters at Amazon.com and order your copy today! Friday the 13'th is over and http://www.amazon.com/Southern-Superstitions-ebook/dp/B006X8GAWA/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326620592&sr=1-6Southern Superstions was released the Sunday after.

Bliss by Tracy Bowen (Can it be Found in South Florida?)

Bliss by Tracy Bowen is set in South Florida, published by Written World Communications, and released August 29, 2011. Indie Moore seeks her bliss in the ocean and sand of the Sunshine State after escaping Rabbit Hole, Kansas, and her mother. As they say like mother, like daughter, Indie takes parts of her mother with her. She has some of the same traits and there could be no denying she's her mother's daughter. With wit and humor Bowen spins a tale of women ruled by the stars, so addicted they each had to have the morning newspaper to read their horoscopes before they could plan their day. When Indie ends up living in a trailer park with wacky neighbors, working in a pottery shop, a restaurant, and scrubbing toilets, holding down three jobs in order to keep a roof over her head, Florida's bliss isn't all it's cracked up to be. Along comes a handsome man a dog that might make her change her mind until she discovers he's a Christian, and her mother says he'll ruin her life. Will she continue to consult the stars, or will she resort to an even higher power? While there were some formatting issues, and I was disappointed that there was no About the Author page at the end of the novel, the story itself is a delightful, light read. Forgiving the formatting, I'd rate it five stars. Available in paperback or eBook formats through Amazon, Barnes and Noble.com, or Written World Communications.

Orphaned Hearts by Shawna K. Williams

Orphaned Hearts by Shawna K. Williams is a touching story of what real love truly is and means, published December 1, 2010, through Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. Though it wasn't a 2011 book, I included it on my list of Top Picks of 2011, since I just finished reading it New Year's Eve. Pastor David Langley grew up in an orphanage and never had a real childhood. Severely burned and disfigured in the fire that claimed the lives of the rest of his family, he gives up on finding a woman who can look past his physical appearance and see the man within until he figures out he's met her in Sadie Miller, the town spinster. Sadie was once engaged, but devoted her life to taking care of her father after her mother's death and the disappearance of her betrothed.

Pastor Langley serves in orphanages to help other children and discovers six-year old Caleb Holsheyer who reminds him of the pain of his own boyhood, ridiculed and shunned, since Caleb is missing an arm. He knows this boy will be hard to place. Families want what they deem a "normal" child who can earn his keep. Many are looking for help on their farms and while they're willing to take in an orphan, they want a "whole" one, not one who isn't "normal". Sadie falls in love with Caleb and he brings her empty house to life and turns it into a home, but she's single, and the board won't allow her to adopt Caleb. She could also go for Pastor David Langley if he gave her a chance. Williams is an excellent storyteller and allows the reader to visualize not only the descriptive scenery, but also feel the depth of emotions this story provokes. David and Sadie work together to find Caleb a home with another family to no avail. She can't let him return to the orphanage and promises him he won't have to. Can she keep that promise? Something isn't right with the orphanage, and she vows Caleb won't return.

Will Pastor Langley continue to hide behind his suit and tie, or reveal himself to a woman who might see him for the man he really is? What else can possibly go wrong when the only help they had through the orphanage, besides Mr. Murray, Caleb's case manager, loses an arm and has to take off work temporarily. The man who replaces him doesn't see Caleb's plight and goes strictly by the books. What will become of a six-year old who calls Sadie mother, has a cat she's gifted him for a pet, and has found a grandmother in Mrs. Pritchard? David and Sadie haven't told him she can't keep him. The first family who planned to adopt him bailed out, and they haven't the heart to tell him he has to return to a place where he hides under the bed. Williams weaves a story that will change your perspective about what's normal and what true love really means. Orphaned Hearts is written with depth and emotion, five stars in my book. Available at Desert Breeze Publishing and wherever fine books are sold.

B. J. Robinson's Top Books of 2011

I've read many great authors and novels this year, but the ones listed below are my top picks and the ones that stayed with me:

TOP PICKS: THE GREEN VEIL and THE RED FURY by NAOMI MUSCH, Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc.
3. No Other Shawna K. Williams
4. In All Things Shawna K. Williams
5. The Good Fight Shawna K. Williams
6. Orphaned Hearts Shawna K. Williams, Desert Breeze
7. Burning Hearts, Nike Chillemi, Desert Breeze
8. Sterling Lakes Book One Light of the Heart, Regina Andrews
9. Fire and Ash, Anne Patrick, Desert Breeze
10. Delivery, Diana Pursik
11. Night of the Cossack, Tom Blubaugh

Nike Chillemi also published Goodby Noel with Desert Breeze, but I haven't had time to read it yet. Prettiest cover I've seen all year, and I'll know the book will be as lovely as the cover.

Naomi, Shawna, Nike, and Ann are author's I'll always read,favorite ones I discovered through Desert Breeze Publishing Inc. Discover yours.

There were many other great novels I read, but having to narrow the list, these are the ones that stayed with me after I finished the book.

Some favorite authors from the past, books I remember from reading several years ago that have still stayed with me include:

Dogwood by Chris Fabry
All She Ever Wanted by Lynn Austin (my favorite)
Eva Marie Everson's novels Things Left Unspoken, This Fine Life, and her Cedar Key series

Check out my publisher's storefront http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/StoreFront.bok and find some new favorite authors of your own. If you received an eReader or iPad, iPod, or Smartphone for Christmas take advantage of wonderful books and authors at less expensive prices. The covers are beautiful. Desert Breeze covers can't be beat. Travel to other worlds through great books and go places you may never get to experience in real life. Meet new characters and escape to their worlds when you want to escape your own for a while. Relax, kick back, and enjoy a great read. Blessings for a New Year of great, enjoyable reading. Let this be the year you read more than ever and make your own favorite list at the end of 2012.

Dangerous Mercy by Kathy Herman

Kathy Herman's Dangerous Mercy is the sequel to False Pretenses, the second novel in the Secrets of the Roux River Bayou series, published October 1, 2011, by David C. Cook. While the first novel was good, this one is better with more satisfying depth. I loved Adele Woodmore, an elderly lady who moved to Les Barbres, Louisiana, to be near the Broussards, characters from the first novel in the series. Noah and Murray are two men from a halfway house Adele befriends, thinking she's helping them get back on their feet. Five deaths occur in a week's time, and the murder is dubbed the Bathtub Killer. Adele thought the community would be peaceful and quiet, much safer than the Big Easy, as did tourists and guest to Langely Manor. Despite being warned about employing the two handymen, Adele continues to use them and has a private investigator complete background checks. My favorite character is Adele. While the ending was predictable, Herman has created believable, well-rounded characters in Adele and Murray. I loved the ending and depth of feeling and emotion in this story, and I look forward to the third novel in the series. Available as paperback or eBook at Amazon or Barnes and Noble.com.

When Love Collides by Michelle Sutton

When Love Collides is Michelle Sutton's newest novel and a worthy one with a beautiful cover. It's twenty-eight chapters, a full-length novel, published by Desert Breeze December 15, 2011, contemporary, inspirational, warm. Raquel collides with Scott in the doctor's office of all places. She's having issues and has to have tests run, and she's taking care of an aunt who needs a bone marrow transplant for a chance to live when he reenters her life. This is the story about a woman who settled for another man because she didn't feel worthy of the one she loved, and she didn't know he loved her. Her ex who was an abuser dies in a bike accident, and she relocates to help her aunt and start a new life. Just as she begins to feel hope, her own medical issues increase, and she discovers she has a disease. Her sister Melanie also enters the picture with an abuser of her own and threatens to dash Raquel's hope and love. Can their love survive? If so, at what stakes? This is a novel with a theme of forgiveness. Sutton has woven a worthy story that will touch hearts and souls, evoke reader emotions, and even make a reader ask, "What if?" She weaves issues of abuse, illness, thief, and forgiveness and even includes a cocker spaniel in this one. Available wherever fine books are sold including Desert Breeze Publishing, Amazon.com, and Barnes and Noble.com.

Character Interview from Goodbye Noel by Nike Chillemi

GN, Barbara Robinson, Interview w/Renata

I thought I'd be interviewing author Nike Chillemi about her new release GOODBYE NOEL, a Christmas/New Year themed historic romantic suspense, but she couldn't make it. To my great surprise Renata Lenart, the mother of the book's heroine and a Czechoslovak immigrant (in the 1940s ) is here to be interviewed. What a treat! And you can find this beautiful new novel at Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble.com for your Kindle or Nook. Available wherever fine books are sold. I think this is the prettiest book cover I've seen all year.

Barbara: It's my understanding that GOODBYE NOEL points out how universally Christmas was celebrated in your day in America. Was it really a time of good cheer and well-wishing across the land?

Renata: Bad things happened to good people then, just as they do today, jo. For example, in GOODBYE NOEL, a murder victim is found with her head bashed in under her Christmas tree a few days after Christmas with her infant child in the next room. [sigh] Still, in my day the Christmas season was a time of excitement and anticipation in America. Nearly all the houses on any given street were decked out. Oh, the decorations might have been simpler, or homemade, but they were there. Every town square had not only a decorated tree, but a crèche. It was generally a very joyful time of year.

Barbara: Talk about a scary Christmas, GOODBYE NOEL opens with your daughter Katrina finding a body. Can you give us an example of what Katrina, received as a Christmas present in those days?

Renata: Well, Katrina was a young woman in 1946, when GOODBYE NOEL was set and she's what you'd call a girly-girl. So, she might receive a pair of heeled peep-toe shoes or slippers, in pink, of course. Pink was one of her favorite colors. Or a pair of kidskin gloves. My husband always made each of us a new hat. My Ambroz owned a millinery shop, said to be the finest on Long Island at that time. Of course, the gift mentioned in the novel is a toboggan. That was a gift given by his parents to young Willie Brogna and Katrina was helping him try it out. When they sailed down the hill, they saw something bloody on a neighbor's property and that led to the discovery of a murder.
Barbara: Takes the joy right out of the Christmas the tree, doesn't it? Since the body was found under the tree, I mean.

Renata: Oh muj, well it was a scary time all right, especially when the bodies started piling up. Detective Ian Daltry began to fear the murderer would strike again and again. Of course, Ian felt something special for Katrina from the moment he first saw her and he feared her life might be in danger. But my daughter did not make it easy for him.

Barbara: I understand that on that first day, Katrina whispered a promise to always protect the infant that was left an orphan.

Renata: Jo, my daughter, Katrina, became quite attached to that little one. In fact, when Ian Daltry showed up demanding that the baby be given to his aunt in Bay Shore, Katrina wanted to shove him right into a snow bank. She had no trouble going toe-to-toe with him. I did mention she made him jump through a few hoops in order to gain her affection. [she chuckles, lightly]

Barbara: How does this story inspire Christian readers?

Renata: The central themes of all of Nike Chillemi's novels are love and justice. That love, the deep love God has instilled in the spirit of every human is very powerful, jo. And as Christians, the love of God that we know and that we strive to express cannot be defeated. God's love is the most powerful force on earth. In GOODBYE NOEL, as the story develops we see Katrina and Ian falling in love. They begin to share deeper intimacies. Now in your day, I know that suggests something quite different than the way we thought of it. What Katrina and Ian shared were the deepest feelings they had. They barred their souls and kept no secrets from each other. In addition, both Katrina and Ian wanted to the killer brought to justice. They both had strong feelings that there must be resolution in that area.

Barbara: As the mother in this story, describe how you decorated your house for Christmas.
Renata: I had a beloved decoration I brought from Czechoslovakia that had hung on my mother's tree...a tiny bell made of seed pearls inside a beaded wreath. When our pastor's wife told me Stewart's Merchantile was getting in ornaments from my country, well, Katrina and I got all dressed up for an afternoon out, jo. We went to the inn for a dinner of roast chicken and sour cherry compote. After that, as you say today, we shopped till we dropped. I came home with a good many more handmade ornaments from Czechoslovakia than perhaps I should have. [she looks from beneath her lashes, slyly] That year, however, I asked Katrina decorate the tree and she has a decorating philosophy that more is more. She put all the ornaments we bought on the tree next to all the homemade ones we had kept from year to year. The ones that held our family's history. Oh muj, the tree was gorgeous when she was finished.
Barbara: What was the traditional Christmas dinner like?

Renata: Christmas Eve is traditionally a meatless meal in Czechoslovakia as that night we await the birth of the Savior. It is "symbolically" a pre-Christmas fast even though the table is filled with food. [runs a red polished nail under the double strand of pearls at her neck] In Czechoslovakia, most families would serve fried carp. If I remember, the year of all those murders, we had salmon in a sour cream sauce. Now Christmas Day is quite different. We put out the good china for breakfast, Bavarian china, of course. We serve yeast breads, cakes, and homemade donuts. For dinner, it was ham, with numerous vegetable side dishes, and roasted potatoes. Of course, I bake my special walnut cookies dusted in powdered sugar for Christmas and also kolachky, you call them Linzer Tarts.
Barbara: Thanks for being a guest on my blog today, Renata. Can you explain to my readers what they'll get out of this Christmas tale? I know they'll be transported back in time to 1946, but what themes might they encounter?

Renata: I think the reader will be transported into an America that had just come out of a devastating war, WWII, where many, many American young men died. The country was recovering from that loss. Yet, there was a spirit of great optimism. Americans at that time were a roll up your sleeves and get it done type of people. It wasn't unusual for one neighbor pitch in and help another. It was as if we were all in this thing together and we all wanted to make something of our country and ourselves. I think something we had then that's missing now is that we all had a sense we were building upon American culture, expanding it. We knew we were standing on the shoulders of giants. We were so proud to be Americans. Back then, we thought that there was nearly nothing that could not be accomplished with hard work. And we did accomplish an awful lot. I don't mean to brag, but we did. I think America is facing some challenges now and that readers will find encouragement and hope in this novel.

Here's the first chapter. Katrina is the heroine and Renata's daughter.
Long Island, NY ~ December, 1946

Katrina Lenart nodded toward a break in the leafless maples and snow covered pines lining Hill Street. A fat blue jay sat on the tip of a pine branch and quirked his head at her, almost mocking. The sun, more the color of wheat than yellow, floated in the pale, cloudless, winter sky, surrendering little heat.
It might seem like we're almost there to you, but we still have to climb that hill. It wasn't high, but steep, as if a pitiless hand had gouged earth from its side. She, turned her head back and squinted against the glare off the snow, adjusting her black velvet earmuffs, stitched into a floret on one side, all the rage since the war.
Said just like a female. Willie Brogna grinned, pulling the toboggan behind him, his rubber boots stomping deep impressions in the fresh fallen snow. Pivoting, he gave her a grateful smile. I know you're just being nice, helping me try out my favorite Christmas present, with my sister on her honeymoon and all. He resumed his climb, out-pacing her.
Determined to put her best friend's teenage brother in his place, Katrina lengthened her strides and arrived at the top of the incline breathing hard. People often comment on how nice I am… and courteous. She tossed off a teasing smile.
The tall, lanky teen snorted then tugged on his hand-knit gloves, securing them, and flexed his fingers.
Shading her eyes with a cable knit glove, she gazed south, unable to see the village of Sanctuary Point or the Great South Bay through the trees. Directly below, the ground dropped away into an empty lot. Beyond that -- Hill Street and the Bauer cottage.
Are you ready? I'll steer and you take the rumble seat. Willie knelt and positioned the toboggan for the first run down the steep hill. Don't forget to hang on tight, I'm gonna let 'er rip, if that won't bruise the dignity of Memorial's most promising nurse.
Katrina gave him a playful smack on the arm. How you do go on. Just watch out for that huge bump down there.
Aw, that's not even a blip on the radar.
She hunkered down behind him and clasped her arms around his waist. The toboggan sped down the hill, her hair airborne behind her. Icy snow crystals flew into her face. They hit the bump and went aloft. Willieee, she shrieked.
They landed so hard her teeth clattered.
When they came to a stop, Willie jumped off. While we were in the air, I saw something near Mrs. Bauer's cottage. Does she have a cat? It looked like a hurt animal… something bloody.
He trotted across the street. It's not in the yard. It's closer and to the side of the road. He hastened down Hill Street, slipping and sliding, to the edge of the Bauer property.
Katrina hurried down the sloping street after him, her arms stretched out for balance. If this was his idea of a practical joke, she'd let him have it.
Willie bent over the object on the ground. Rising, he twisted toward her. Well, it's not an animal.
Rushing to his side, she tried to catch her breath. It's blood on a kitchen towel. Not a lot, but sufficient to warrant concern. Please, let everything be all right.
Do you suppose Mrs. Bauer cut herself out here?
We'd better check on her. Katrina raced back up the hill after Willie along the length of the lot, as fast as she could. She slipped but regained her footing on Bauer's icy walk. When she reached the stoop, her breath came in short painful gasps.
Willie hurdled the two steps and came to a stop on the miniscule porch. The front door stood ajar.
Uneasiness halted her halting gait. Yet, Katrina followed and called. Mrs. Bauer, hello.
Willie nudged the door and shouted. Mrs. Bauer, are you in there?
She peered between the door and its frame into dimness. Mrs. Bauer… Noel, it's Katrina, your neighbor.
This is getting us nowhere. Willie gave the door a shove.
The living room was chilly and silent -- something definitely not right. Mrs. Bauer wouldn't leave the door open on such a cold day, not even a crack. Katrina eased in. Hello, anyone home? She stepped around the couch and froze.
Noel Bauer lay on her living room floor, in front of a decorated Christmas tree. Blood pooled beneath her head.
Oh, my Lord. Katrina rushed to the woman and knelt, applying two fingers to her neck. Willie, she has no pulse.
I mean, I know you're a nurse, but are you sure?
She's dead. Katrina's voice shook in her throat. She's not breathing and her body temperature isn't warm.
The telephone lines come up here, so I'll bet she has a phone. We'd better call the police. This is awful. His eyes darted around the room. There… in the kitchen.
Katrina took a deep breath and calmed herself. How strange and brutal life could be. Yesterday, gay and carefree, she stood as maid-of-honor in Willie's sister's wedding. Today she'd found Noel Bauer's corpse.
She hurried to the phone, dialed the village operator, and asked to be connected to the police station. After relaying the information to young Officer Classen, whose mother worked with her at the hospital, she sank onto a chair at the table and held her head in her hands. There was something peculiar about the position of Noel Bauer's body Katrina couldn't put her finger on, as if she were reaching for something.
Cries of an infant came from the bedroom down the hallway.
*****
Standing by the Christmas tree, Katrina rocked the infant wrapped in a pink blanket. She took a small green and white glass ornament from the top of the tree and dangled it before the baby's face. Look how pretty. Your mommy made such a lovely tree for you. Her eyes misted and her gaze slid to the lifeless form on the floor. A lump formed in her throat.
Detective Daltry's here. Willie turned from the window and hurried to open the door.
Ian Daltry entered with rookie-officer Robert Classen at his heels. The detective removed his brown fedora freeing a riot of salt and pepper hair. He nodded toward Katrina. Miss Lenart, you phoned the station?
Yes, Willie and I found Mrs. Bauer. She glanced at the teen, who stood by the front window, a stricken look on his face. She's gone.
Detective Daltry placed his hat on the coffee table and bent over the still form. The blood on the floor, dark and thick had begun to coagulate. Straightening, he looked at Katrina, his lips in a tight line. You're right. She's dead. I'd guess less than an hour.
Katrina took a halting step toward the body, but the detective put up a staying hand to stop her. She cleared her throat. Severe trauma to the head. She couldn't survive a wound like that.
That's my take on it. I'll phone the medical examiner.
Willie pointed. Phone's in the kitchen.
The detective nodded, turned on his heel, crossed the living room, and disappeared.
Katrina followed stiff legged part way across the room. She wanted to do something, but didn't know what.
Officer Classen stepped forward and blocked her path. You can't go into the kitchen.
She stopped in her tracks, stroked the infant's soft hair, and held her closer. I had no idea Mrs. Bauer had a baby. She closed the house in early spring last year and was gone over six months. She's been back only about three months. Since then, she'd been reclusive, but why?
The baby grabbed for the ornament and cooed.
Katrina lifted the glass bulb away from the tiny hand. Oh no, you don't. You're a quick little lady, aren't you? Yes you are. She made an exaggerated smiling face and shook her head.
The baby started fussing.
Are you cold? Katrina pulled the blanket tight around the infant, rubbed her tiny hands, and blew warm breath on them.
I'd like to throw a log on the fire for the baby, but can't touch anything until we complete our investigation. The young officer shifted from foot to foot.
Detective Daltry emerged from the kitchen and advanced toward her. He touched the pink blanket. A girl. A tremor ran through his fingers and he dropped his hand to his side.
Isn't she pretty? Katrina stroked the infant's face. When she glanced up, she thought she saw pain flicker in the detective's eyes, and then it was gone.
Her mother was lovely. Such a shame. Officer Classen stood over the body with a camera. Detective, do you want me to start taking photographs?
He cleared his throat. Yes, begin with the body and work out to the periphery of the room. Don't spare the film.
The child gurgled, squirmed, and kicked her legs against the coverlet wrapped tight around her. Aren't you a feisty one? Katrina kissed the baby's little fist. You're going to be fine. Somehow, I'll make sure. I promise.
The detective rocked back on his heels and raked his hand through his hair, mangling it. He cast a quick glance at the hearth. With the fire nearly out and the door opening and closing, perhaps the child shouldn't be here. I can phone my neighbor. She watches my daughter when I'm working. I'm sure she'd look after the little one until we figure out what to do with her.
The baby made a face and fidgeted, her knees pumping.
No. That's not necessary. Katrina held the baby tighter, her need to protect this infant growing by the second. I live down the street, and I'm a maternity nurse. If you consent, I'll take her home. I'm sure my mother will agree to mind her while I'm working at the hospital.
A huge wail came from the tiny mouth.
Maybe she's hungry. Willie took two quick steps. Let me see if there's milk in the kitchen.
The detective shook his head. Sorry, off limits. You can't touch or remove anything. We haven't done a walk-through yet and they'll want to brush for finger prints.
Katrina placed the baby on her shoulder and rubbed her back in a circular motion. This child can't drink bottled milk. I'm sure her mother nursed her, most do. We'll have to make formula from evaporated milk. What did men know about babies?
Won't you need a baby bottle? Willie plunked both hands on his hips.
Yes, or something similar. I need to get this baby home where Momma can help me. Katrina bounced the fussing infant in her arms and checked the seat of the diaper. She's dry and didn't leave us a present in her pants.
Detective Daltry moved to Katrina's side and stroked the baby's back. Officer Classen can drive you home. He turned toward the rookie cop. Wait up on the photos and take this young woman and the child down the hill. When you get to the edge of the Bauer property, drive on the wrong side of the street. I'm calling the troopers station to see if they can get any tire impressions near where we picked up the bloody towel.
If Lorne Kincade was finished with trooper training, we'd get that done right quick. Robert opened the door and held it for Katrina.
You bet you would. Willie tried for a grin, but only one side of his lips lifted. Thing is, he won't even start the training until he and my sister get back from their honeymoon.
Katrina rocked the baby whose face had turned bright pink. Heavens to Besty, let's not rush the newlyweds home in our talk. She tried for a smile and managed a small one.
The detective pivoted toward the window. Mr. Brogna… Willie, I'd like you to stay. I have questions for you. Miss Lenart, I'll question your later.
The infant emitted a piercing cry.
Katrina hurried toward the door. Our house is the first one on the right side.

Night of the Cossack by Tom Blubaugh

Night of the Cossack by Tom Blubaugh is an awesome 34 chapters and 250 pages of adventure young boys will love. It's a Christian novel of adventure,an imprint of Bound by Faith Publishers, a beautiful paperback. When teen Nathan Hertzfield is kidnapped during a raid and forced to become a Cossack solider, life as he knew it is ripped apart. Mixed emotions run rampant as he's faced with life-altering, life-threatening situations. He feels lucky on one hand that his mother and brother are still alive, but he has to leave them and his past behind. Just when he thinks he's built a new life for himself, he finds himself on the run once again. He's lost so much at such a young age: loved ones, his home, family, and his own identity. Can he take losing the one thing he has left, his beloved horse? Just when he finds a woman and falls in love and dreams of starting his own family, he's forced to leave her too, without looking back. How much can one young man stand? He's a Jew forced to hide it and even expected to defend himself as a Cossack solider and kill other Jews, but he doesn't want to take a life. His mother raised a moral son, and even in the face of the obstacle course that's become his life, he vows to hold onto his character.

The author, Tom Blubaugh, a freelance writer who has written mostly nonfiction has turned his pen to fiction and spun an amazing tale of family heritage with a strong character readers will love. Filled with emotions, vivid description, and danger, this novel will keep the reader on his toes until the last page to discover what happens to Nathan in the end.

While it's not the type of book I'd normally select, my interest was captivated from the first chapter when Nathan didn't listen to his mother. I think the best audience is teen boys or men, but I'm a woman, and I have to admit I loved this novel and couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I love the way the novel ends when the captain tells Nathan, "I have a friend who was also betrayed by someone close to him."You'll have to read the novel and find out who this friend is. This novel is also available as an eBook from Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble.com.

Published by Bound by Faith Publishers.

ebook for Kindle available at Amazon.com. Be sure to like my page and do a review when you finish, if you like my book.

Check out my Author page.

Read the reviews on Amazon.

ebook for Nook available at Barnes & Noble

Night of the Cossack Facebook author page. Be sure to like my page while you're there please.

Personal Facebook page

Visit My Blog. Be sure to sign up as a follower.

Twitter @tomblubaugh

Available at Author's Den. A great Author/Reader site. You can join free. Look me up and be sure to become a fan while you're there.

Also available at New Christian Books.

Check me out on Goodreads.

Co-author of The Great Adventure published by Barbour Publishing. (out of print).

Genesis Project

Jericho Commission, Inc.

Tom Blubaugh, Author of Night of the Cossack--Read the first chapter get a signed copy by ordering here. FREE shipping in USA.

Published by Bound by Faith Publishers.

ebook for Kindle available at Amazon.com. Be sure to like my page and do a review when you finish, if you like my book.

Check out my Author page.

Read the reviews on Amazon.

ebook for Nook available at Barnes & Noble

Night of the Cossack Facebook author page. Be sure to like my page while you're there please.

Personal Facebook page

Visit My Blog. Be sure to sign up as a follower.

Twitter @tomblubaugh

Available at Author's Den. A great Author/Reader site. You can join free. Look me up and be sure to become a fan while you're there.

Also available at New Christian Books.

Check me out on Goodreads.

Co-author of The Great Adventure published by Barbour Publishing. (out of print).

Genesis Project

Jericho Commission, Inc.

The Santa Shop by Tim Greaton: Inspiration for the Hopeless

Tim Greaton's The Santa Shop is well worth the ninety-nine cents you'll pay for an inspirational Christmas story of hope. A young attorney on top of the world goes to a party to build his career and leaves his family home alone. Will they be waiting when he returns? One party changes his life forever. A homeless man contemplates suicide on Christmas Eve on the Christmas Leap Bridge. He has gone over the edge, but will he literally? Available at Amazon or Barnes and Noble.com. Don't miss this Christmas tale. It'll make you stop and think, cherish sweet childhood memories of favorite Christmas toys, reach out and grab your heart, and inspire you. The author's vivid descriptions and characterization are icing on the cake.

Grab Your Free Read Now Companion to Southern Superstitions

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNoo962DbF0&feature=share Prayer versus Southern superstitions when a woman's husband mysteriously disappears in the swamp on a deer-hunting trip. As steamy as the hot, thick, sticky heat of Louisiana, this page-turner will keep readers in suspense, as the author spins a tale of love, loss, superstition, pain, heartache, and faith in God. God and the power of prayer versus Southern superstitions. Through belief, faith, hard work, the power of prayer, and God's help, this powerful, moving story is a thought-provoking Christian romantic suspense about a young couple who fall in love, but have to change her mother's mind in more ways than one, if their relationship is to survive. Can Andy convince June there's more to their relationship than friends? Will he win the approval of Myrtle, her mother, and can love survive strawberry season and an April flood? Will June be able to give Andy a child?

Grab your free read now, a companion to Southern Superstitions: The Lord Has Something Better in Mind by B. J. Robinson

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-264/The-Lord-Has-Something/Detail.bok