April Erwin's Blog, page 13
May 4, 2014
Starlight by Kc Sprayberry
Welcome, Kc Sprayberry! Today her latest release is taking over the blogosphere. Check it out.
What happened to Tawni Barclay?
The first thing Brad Patterson noticed as he skidded into the Starlight Resort was a teenage girl hanging from the elm tree near the entrance. A shudder ran through him. This scene bore an eerie resemblance to a local legend of three girls who had killed themselves forty years ago. No official records existed to prove those three deaths happened. All he'd been able to uncover were three missing person cases involving three teenage girls who had never been found. “Where are you, Jayme?”
Jayme Barclay sees her 15 year old swinging on a rope from a tree at Starlight, the mansion the county commissioner is making over. Brad Patterson loses a piece of himself when he answers the 911 call to get to Starlight on a snowy December night. A year later, the mystery surrounding Tawni's "suicide" still haunts both Jayme and Brad. Events spiral until Jayme must return from her isolation and face her demons. After reuniting with Brad, she reveals a secret she hid from him. They work with Tawni's friends to uncover the activities at Starlight and rescue another teen before she kills herself.
Watch the book trailer HERE.
Genre: Romantic SuspenseHeat Level: Sweet
READ IT TODAY: AmazonBarnes and NobleSmashwordsMuse It Up Publishing
KC Sprayberry started writing young, first as a diarist, and later through an interest in English and creative writing. Her first experience with publication came when she placed third in The Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge contest while in the Air Force, but her dedication to writing came after she had her youngest child, now in his senior year of high school.
Her family lives in Northwest Georgia where she spends her days creating stories about life in the south, and far beyond. More than a dozen of her short stories have appeared in several magazines. Five anthologies feature other short stories. She has three books that are Amazon best sellers: Softly Say Goodbye, Who Am I?, and Mama's Advice. Her other novels available are: Take Chances, The Ghost Catcher, Family Curse … Times Two, Secret From The Flames, Where U @, The Wrong One, Pony Dreams, Evil Eyes, and Grace.
FOLLOW Kc AROUND THE UNIVERSE via: [Website] [Blog] [Facebook] [Twitter] [Goodreads] [Pinterest] [Google+] [Amazon] [JacketFlap] [Manic Readers] [AUTHORSdB] [Authorgraph]
What happened to Tawni Barclay?
The first thing Brad Patterson noticed as he skidded into the Starlight Resort was a teenage girl hanging from the elm tree near the entrance. A shudder ran through him. This scene bore an eerie resemblance to a local legend of three girls who had killed themselves forty years ago. No official records existed to prove those three deaths happened. All he'd been able to uncover were three missing person cases involving three teenage girls who had never been found. “Where are you, Jayme?”
Jayme Barclay sees her 15 year old swinging on a rope from a tree at Starlight, the mansion the county commissioner is making over. Brad Patterson loses a piece of himself when he answers the 911 call to get to Starlight on a snowy December night. A year later, the mystery surrounding Tawni's "suicide" still haunts both Jayme and Brad. Events spiral until Jayme must return from her isolation and face her demons. After reuniting with Brad, she reveals a secret she hid from him. They work with Tawni's friends to uncover the activities at Starlight and rescue another teen before she kills herself. Watch the book trailer HERE.
Genre: Romantic SuspenseHeat Level: Sweet
READ IT TODAY: AmazonBarnes and NobleSmashwordsMuse It Up Publishing
KC Sprayberry started writing young, first as a diarist, and later through an interest in English and creative writing. Her first experience with publication came when she placed third in The Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge contest while in the Air Force, but her dedication to writing came after she had her youngest child, now in his senior year of high school.
Her family lives in Northwest Georgia where she spends her days creating stories about life in the south, and far beyond. More than a dozen of her short stories have appeared in several magazines. Five anthologies feature other short stories. She has three books that are Amazon best sellers: Softly Say Goodbye, Who Am I?, and Mama's Advice. Her other novels available are: Take Chances, The Ghost Catcher, Family Curse … Times Two, Secret From The Flames, Where U @, The Wrong One, Pony Dreams, Evil Eyes, and Grace. FOLLOW Kc AROUND THE UNIVERSE via: [Website] [Blog] [Facebook] [Twitter] [Goodreads] [Pinterest] [Google+] [Amazon] [JacketFlap] [Manic Readers] [AUTHORSdB] [Authorgraph]
May the 4th Be With You
May the 4th be With You!
Celebrate the awesomeness that is Star Wars and play a few puzzles I created. Enjoy!
[Your web browser does not support frames or is currently configured not to display frames. However, you may visit the related page.] [image error] Yoda Star Wars
[image error] Star Wars Universe
Celebrate the awesomeness that is Star Wars and play a few puzzles I created. Enjoy!
[Your web browser does not support frames or is currently configured not to display frames. However, you may visit the related page.] [image error] Yoda Star Wars
[image error] Star Wars Universe
April 29, 2014
Winner Down Under
Song Stuck on the Brain: "Let it Go" from Frozen the movie I know, everyone is singing this song right now. Who can really blame them? It's a really great song. And, considering I'm being bombarded with it from all over, it's no wonder it's stuck in my head after seeing the movie only once. :)
April 27, 2014
One final Princess Quiz
I know National Princess Week is over, but when I saw this quiz, I had to share it as a final P.S. of sorts.
I apparently am Princess Ella of Ella Enchanted.
I apparently am Princess Ella of Ella Enchanted.
April 25, 2014
National Princess Week day 7
Song Stuck on the Brain: Today was a Fairytale by Taylor Swift
Welcome back! It’s the final day of #NationalPrincessWeek and we’re going out with a bang. We’re having an International Tea Party (online of course…) and you are ALL invited. We have an EXTRA special guest today, too. All week you’ve met the girl-friends from Dysfunction Junction, but today, Kianna herself is stopping in as guest of honor. She has something to share that you won’t want to miss.
SO, choose your favorite country or princess, dress to the nines and come on in for our final hurrah.
I’m so excited about today’s tea party! But I’m also kind of sad that the week is already over. My last book to share is the Princess and the Pea. My mommy said it was originally written by a man named Hans Christian Anderson and that he lived a long time ago in Denmark. Since I like this book so much, I picked this country for today’s party. Mommy helped me look on Facebook to find a picture of a princess from Denmark. I’m picking PrincessJosephine Sophia Ivalo Mathilda because she looks like she’s ‘got spunk’, just like Daddy says about me.
The Princess and The Pea by John Cech
“A long time ago, there lived a prince who was looking for someone very special to marry… One of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories gets a breathtaking showcase, with lavish art and an elegant retelling by acclaimed writer, professor, and radio host John Cech. It’s the second exquisite entry in the Classic Fairy Tale Collectionseries.
Although the handsome prince meets ladies blessed with beauty, wealth, and brains, he knows in his heart that none is the true princess he longs for. Then, one stormy night, a wet, disheveled, and very weary young woman knocks at the castle door. Could she be his queen? One tiny pea buried underneath twenty soft mattresses might reveal the truth…”
It’s the last day, how could I possibly share all the princess stories worth reading with you, when I only had a week? There’s no way I could and that’s the sad truth, but I hope you have found a lot of new books worth reading this week. I want to share just a few more of my favorites before I go change into my Moroccan inspired outfit for tea. Please enjoy and I’ll see you for tea soon.
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
How can a fairy's blessing be such a curse?
At her birth, Ella of Frell was given a foolish fairy's gift—the "gift" of obedience. Ella must obey any order given to her, whether it's hopping on one foot for a day or chopping off her own head!
But strong-willed Ella does not tamely accept her fate. She goes on a quest, encountering ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, fairy godmothers, and handsome princes, determined to break the curse—and live happily ever after.
The Princess by Lori Wick
She’s so special already, Lord, Daria Parker prayed. Now she has You, and I can’t help but wonder if You might have something very remarkable and unfamiliar for our Shelby.
In the Land of Pendaran, lively, affectionate Shelby Parker was born to a simple life—yet her mother, Daria, and those around her cannot help but notice the graces she possesses. Among those taking note of Shelby’s winsome ways and tender heart are the king and queen of the House of Markham, who are seeking a new wife for their widowed son, Prince Nikolai.
To uphold a long-cherished tradition of the country, Shelby and Nikolai agree to an arranged marriage. But while Nikolai is a perfect gentleman at public functions, he remains distant and shy at home, leaving Shelby to ponder the inner workings of his heart. Will the prince ever love her as he did his first wife? Can the faith they share overcome the barriers between them?
The Princess Bride by William Goldman
Anyone who lived through the 1980s may find it impossible—inconceivable, even—to equate The Princess Bride with anything other than the sweet, celluloid romance of Westley and Buttercup, but the film is only a fraction of the ingenious storytelling you'll find in these pages. Rich in character and satire, the novel is set in 1941 and framed cleverly as an “abridged” retelling of a centuries-old tale set in the fabled country of Florin that's home to “Beasts of all natures and descriptions. Pain. Death. Brave men. Coward men. Strongest men. Chases. Escapes. Lies. Truths. Passions.”
Welcome to tea, my royal (even if just for a day) friends. I’m so glad you could all make it. Thank you for being with Curly-Locks and I all week, we’ve had a blast.
Back with us today, are of course, Rissa, Hope and Alexa; and as a special surprise Kianna is here as well. Ladies, you all look beautiful. As you enter, I’ll announce your Princess/Country inspiration.
Hope – Princess Ameerah Al-Taweel of Saudi Arabia
Rissa – Princess Alexandra of Luxembourg
Alexa – Princess Charlene of Monaco
Kianna – Princess Madeleine of Sweden
Now that we’ve had our royal parade, lol, Alexa tell us about this gorgeous set up. You’ve obviously worked hard to put this shindig together so quickly and it looks fantastic. What do we have on the buffet?
I found some wonderful recipes on Pinterest. We have:
Savory:
Potstickers with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Swedish-meatball appetizers
Crab Sushi
Garlic White Bean Basil Hummus w/Pita Chips
Turkey, Gouda, Apple Sandwiches
Romanian Cabbage Rolls (Sarmale)
Battered Plantains w/Peanut Sauce (Bakabana) Sweet:
Cheese Danishes
Cranberry Mini Scones
Russian tea cookies
Mahamri (Tanzanian fritters)
Strawberry cheesecake wonton bites
Drinks:
Jasmine tea
Chai
Earl Gray
Mango Lassi
The food is fresh and ready to go. Come in and fill up your plate, have a seat at the table.
Kianna, what did you want to share with us today?
I have a new song from my journal and I want to share it with everyone. If you don’t mind being my sounding board, you can get an early listen.
Journal Entry: "Fairy Tales"
Love at first sight is not real
Or so I have been told.
But I need to believe
One day I’ll have and hold.
Because everybody needs
A little fairy tale,
Cinderella and romance
A kiss to break the spell.
Chorus:
All I want is true love,
A white picket fence.
I’m dreaming of the day
When I’ll find my prince.
I’ll have kissed the right frog
And love will make sense.
I spent my childhood days
Living in wonderland.
Dreaming that my prince charming
Would come and hold my hand.
Well life’s not a fairy tale
And a princess I’m not,
But I’ll hold on to my dreams
Because they’re all I’ve got.
CHORUS Bridge:
Sleeping Beauty and Snow White
Were given true love’s kiss
So I think it’s only fair
All I’m asking is this. CHORUS
I hope you all enjoyed our week together, thank you so much for celebrating with us.
Do you want to know the rest of Kianna’s story? You could win a free copy. Today is the last day to enter the contest. So hurry and get your entries in before midnight CST.
If you haven’t stopped by my Facebook page yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community.
What was your favorite part of National Princess Week? Let us know in the comments below, Tweet them to me @aprilerwin or post them on my Facebook page.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.
For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links. To find the recipes visit: Follow April's board National Princess Week International Tea Party on Pinterest.
"Fairy Tales" by April Erwin (c) 12/28/2001facebook.com/aprilerwinauthor
Welcome back! It’s the final day of #NationalPrincessWeek and we’re going out with a bang. We’re having an International Tea Party (online of course…) and you are ALL invited. We have an EXTRA special guest today, too. All week you’ve met the girl-friends from Dysfunction Junction, but today, Kianna herself is stopping in as guest of honor. She has something to share that you won’t want to miss.
SO, choose your favorite country or princess, dress to the nines and come on in for our final hurrah.
I’m so excited about today’s tea party! But I’m also kind of sad that the week is already over. My last book to share is the Princess and the Pea. My mommy said it was originally written by a man named Hans Christian Anderson and that he lived a long time ago in Denmark. Since I like this book so much, I picked this country for today’s party. Mommy helped me look on Facebook to find a picture of a princess from Denmark. I’m picking PrincessJosephine Sophia Ivalo Mathilda because she looks like she’s ‘got spunk’, just like Daddy says about me.
The Princess and The Pea by John Cech
“A long time ago, there lived a prince who was looking for someone very special to marry… One of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories gets a breathtaking showcase, with lavish art and an elegant retelling by acclaimed writer, professor, and radio host John Cech. It’s the second exquisite entry in the Classic Fairy Tale Collectionseries.
Although the handsome prince meets ladies blessed with beauty, wealth, and brains, he knows in his heart that none is the true princess he longs for. Then, one stormy night, a wet, disheveled, and very weary young woman knocks at the castle door. Could she be his queen? One tiny pea buried underneath twenty soft mattresses might reveal the truth…”
It’s the last day, how could I possibly share all the princess stories worth reading with you, when I only had a week? There’s no way I could and that’s the sad truth, but I hope you have found a lot of new books worth reading this week. I want to share just a few more of my favorites before I go change into my Moroccan inspired outfit for tea. Please enjoy and I’ll see you for tea soon. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
How can a fairy's blessing be such a curse? At her birth, Ella of Frell was given a foolish fairy's gift—the "gift" of obedience. Ella must obey any order given to her, whether it's hopping on one foot for a day or chopping off her own head!
But strong-willed Ella does not tamely accept her fate. She goes on a quest, encountering ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, fairy godmothers, and handsome princes, determined to break the curse—and live happily ever after.
The Princess by Lori Wick
She’s so special already, Lord, Daria Parker prayed. Now she has You, and I can’t help but wonder if You might have something very remarkable and unfamiliar for our Shelby. In the Land of Pendaran, lively, affectionate Shelby Parker was born to a simple life—yet her mother, Daria, and those around her cannot help but notice the graces she possesses. Among those taking note of Shelby’s winsome ways and tender heart are the king and queen of the House of Markham, who are seeking a new wife for their widowed son, Prince Nikolai.
To uphold a long-cherished tradition of the country, Shelby and Nikolai agree to an arranged marriage. But while Nikolai is a perfect gentleman at public functions, he remains distant and shy at home, leaving Shelby to ponder the inner workings of his heart. Will the prince ever love her as he did his first wife? Can the faith they share overcome the barriers between them?
The Princess Bride by William Goldman
Anyone who lived through the 1980s may find it impossible—inconceivable, even—to equate The Princess Bride with anything other than the sweet, celluloid romance of Westley and Buttercup, but the film is only a fraction of the ingenious storytelling you'll find in these pages. Rich in character and satire, the novel is set in 1941 and framed cleverly as an “abridged” retelling of a centuries-old tale set in the fabled country of Florin that's home to “Beasts of all natures and descriptions. Pain. Death. Brave men. Coward men. Strongest men. Chases. Escapes. Lies. Truths. Passions.” Welcome to tea, my royal (even if just for a day) friends. I’m so glad you could all make it. Thank you for being with Curly-Locks and I all week, we’ve had a blast.
Back with us today, are of course, Rissa, Hope and Alexa; and as a special surprise Kianna is here as well. Ladies, you all look beautiful. As you enter, I’ll announce your Princess/Country inspiration.
Hope – Princess Ameerah Al-Taweel of Saudi Arabia
Rissa – Princess Alexandra of Luxembourg
Alexa – Princess Charlene of Monaco
Kianna – Princess Madeleine of Sweden
Now that we’ve had our royal parade, lol, Alexa tell us about this gorgeous set up. You’ve obviously worked hard to put this shindig together so quickly and it looks fantastic. What do we have on the buffet?
I found some wonderful recipes on Pinterest. We have:
Savory:
Potstickers with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Swedish-meatball appetizers
Crab Sushi
Garlic White Bean Basil Hummus w/Pita Chips
Turkey, Gouda, Apple Sandwiches
Romanian Cabbage Rolls (Sarmale)
Battered Plantains w/Peanut Sauce (Bakabana) Sweet:
Cheese Danishes
Cranberry Mini Scones
Russian tea cookies
Mahamri (Tanzanian fritters)
Strawberry cheesecake wonton bites Drinks:
Jasmine tea Chai
Earl Gray
Mango Lassi
The food is fresh and ready to go. Come in and fill up your plate, have a seat at the table.
Kianna, what did you want to share with us today?
I have a new song from my journal and I want to share it with everyone. If you don’t mind being my sounding board, you can get an early listen.
Journal Entry: "Fairy Tales"
Love at first sight is not real
Or so I have been told.
But I need to believe
One day I’ll have and hold.
Because everybody needs
A little fairy tale,
Cinderella and romance
A kiss to break the spell.
Chorus:
All I want is true love,
A white picket fence.
I’m dreaming of the day
When I’ll find my prince.
I’ll have kissed the right frog
And love will make sense.
I spent my childhood days
Living in wonderland.
Dreaming that my prince charming
Would come and hold my hand.
Well life’s not a fairy tale
And a princess I’m not,
But I’ll hold on to my dreams
Because they’re all I’ve got.
CHORUS Bridge:
Sleeping Beauty and Snow White
Were given true love’s kiss
So I think it’s only fair
All I’m asking is this. CHORUS
I hope you all enjoyed our week together, thank you so much for celebrating with us.
Do you want to know the rest of Kianna’s story? You could win a free copy. Today is the last day to enter the contest. So hurry and get your entries in before midnight CST.
If you haven’t stopped by my Facebook page yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community.
What was your favorite part of National Princess Week? Let us know in the comments below, Tweet them to me @aprilerwin or post them on my Facebook page.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links. To find the recipes visit: Follow April's board National Princess Week International Tea Party on Pinterest.
"Fairy Tales" by April Erwin (c) 12/28/2001facebook.com/aprilerwinauthor
April 24, 2014
National Princess Week day 6
Song Stuck on the Brain: A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes by Kimberly Locke
Welcome back to #NationalPrincessWeek! A week for us to celebrate the little girl (or not so little girl) in all of us that at some point dreamed of being royalty and finding her Prince Charming.
I love to read to my dolls, just like Kianna reads to us. (I wear my princess hat of course.) This book is a really good one to read out loud and it’s not too hard for me. Plus, my dolls really love the pretty drawings and cute animals. I don’t think I’d want to sleep for a hundred years, I don’t even take naps if I can help it. But a kiss from a handsome prince to wake me up, well I think I’d like that a LOT!
Sleeping Beauty by J and W Grimm
“A frog tells a childless queen that she will bear a daughter. At the girl’s christening, an uninvited fairy utters a death curse, which another fairy amends. As foretold, at age 15, the princess pricks her finger on a spindle and sleeps for 100 years, along with everyone in the castle, which is soon protected by a lethal, thorny hedge. After 100 years, a prince finds the now-flowering hedge, which opens to let him pass. He awakens Sleeping Beauty with a kiss, and the court celebrates their wedding.”
I have another series for you today, but this one definitely puts a unique spin on being a princess! I love the idea of being saved or rescued by a handsome prince, but let’s face it, we’re all modern women and we do a lot more saving of ourselves these days. We have goals and dreams and plans and it’s not considered so strange anymore to pursue them. It’s okay to Dream Big! *gasp* LOL! Okay, so I’m being a little melodramatic, but with the Princess of Valendria Series by Mary Waibel it was fun to see the Princess and Prince have their roles reversed. I suppose you could say, Princesses can slay the dragon and roast it, too!
Quest of the Heart
A reverse Sleeping Beauty tale where the princess goes on the quest to save the prince.
Princess Kaylee has never had to fight for anything. Her entire life has been arranged, even her marriage. But when Prince Devlin falls under an enchantment, she finds she is willing to do anything to save him, even if it means fighting a dragon.
Devlin's own sister, Princess Arabella, is behind the deadly plot. She wants the throne and will use any means necessary to gain it. Her perfect plan unravels, leaving Devlin caught in a magical sleep that is slowly spreading through the kingdom of Breniera. All Arabella needs to finish her spell and claim the crown is a drop of Kaylee's blood, but obtaining the single drop is proving more difficult than expected.
To save her betrothed, Kaylee embarks on a quest to find an ancient sword and gather a drop of dragon's blood, while trying to stay out of Arabella's traps. But Arabella's traps aren't the only danger. Time is everything. For once the last inhabitant of the kingdom falls asleep, the spell will be sealed, and not even true love's kiss will break it.
Charmed Memories
A prince vows to prove the girl he loves is his missing princess by recovering her lost memories.
Prince Trevor has always placed duty to his kingdom above the desires of his own heart. But when his betrothed is lost at sea, he finds himself torn between honor and love.
After four years of searching for the missing princess, he begins to secretly long for Lady Bri, the Woodland Guide he works with each day. But the law says he must marry a princess, and Bri is barely a noble.
When Trevor learns that Bri shipwrecked at the same time and place as the princess, he begins to believe he has finally found his bride-to-be. But his happiness is short lived. Bri has no memory of her past, and the princess wasn't the only girl who disappeared from the ship.
Desperate to prove Bri is his princess, Trevor unwittingly places the two of them in grave danger. Buried in Bri's memories are deadly secrets someone wants kept from the light of day, and learning who she is may cost more than either is willing to pay.
Different Kind of Knight
Happily-ever-after isn't guaranteed. Sometimes you have to fight for it.
Through a twist of fate, Princess Gabrielle became First Knight of the King's Elite Guard, a position always held by the second born male. She's spent years proving to the Minsters of Faldaera she's capable of leading the king’s Army.
When mythical creatures plague her kingdom, Rielle is sent to capture Captain Brody, the alleged culprit behind the attacks and the man who broke her heart four years ago.
Brody, Crown Prince of Delphine, is living in self-imposed exile, atoning for the sins of his father. But Fate has different plans for him. Tired, beaten down, and ready to give up on life, he is tossed into the path of the one person he would do anything for―Princess Gabrielle.
With a traitor in her ranks, and a mark on her head, Brody joins forces with Rielle, hoping to keep the woman he loves safe. Happily-ever-after is not guaranteed, and mythical creatures aren't the only danger the couple face. As battles rage, Rielle has the chance to prove herself a capable leader, but will doing so cost her the love of her life?
Today, Hope is back with us. Welcome back, Hope, I see you’ve been shopping! What is in all of these bags? How did you manage to carry them all in by yourself?
I didn’t, that’s what cute, helpful neighbor boys are for. Now that the last bag is in, I can’t wait to show you what I have planned.
Oh, wait, let me guess… A makeover?
Yes! My favorite project. :)And you, Cherry-Locks get to be my guinea pig.
Okay, sure, a new look can’t hurt. Have at it!
Since we have the #NationalPrincessWeek International Tea Party on Saturday, then we have to have you ready for it. I want to show everyone some tips on how to dress like a Princess on a Pauper’s budget.
Cute! Okay, so what is the first step?
Outfit – You can dress up, you can dress down, you can skip the dress altogether, but what will make your outfit seem right, is the setting for your party. If you know the theme is English Tea Garden with lots of lace and pretty hats, then a dress with soft colors or a muted floral pattern could work well. If you don’t ever wear dresses, consider white or a light neutral color pant with a more delicate blouse. Just don’t wear jeans. Unless the tea party is more of a Hang out with Friends and Get Crazy kind of event (those are a blast!)
Since we know that our theme is International Princess, I suggest choosing a country your drawn to and style yourself after a princess from that country.
That’s a good idea. Since you have so many sacks already, I’m guessing you’ve already chosen a country for me?
I have! I Picked Morocco - more specifically, Princess Lalla Salma of Morocco. The two of you share a really striking shade of hair. Plus the clothing has a beautiful flow, color and texture. It’s bright, pretty and elegant but still unique and fun.
I know you’re not fond of dresses, so I’ve chosen a pair of pewter colored slacks paired with a dark purple Moroccan inspired top and silver strappy wedge sandals.
Beautiful! I love purple. This shirt looks expensive, was it?
No, if you shop carefully, you can find a lot of good deals on beautiful pieces. Ebay, thrift shops or second hand stores, even retail can be reasonable if you’re shopping for something that’s trending. These Moroccan inspired tops are trending so they’re more common than you expect. If you can’t afford to shop at all, raid a friend or family members closet or get creative and re-purpose a piece of your own clothing. Give it a new life and you’ll wear it more often.
Great idea. What about accessories? Do I get a tiara?
Um… no, but I do have some fabulous bling for you. If you want to wear a tiara though, don’t let me stop you, go for it!
I found these great pieces made by Angel’s Divine Designs. The slave bracelet is quickly gaining popularity and it’s a statement piece that everyone will ask about. The earrings are real wire wrapped amethyst stones. Royal jewels with a little bit of a non-traditional touch to keep things interesting.
These are awesome! So now that my outfit is covered, what about make-up and hair?
Each culture has a style that’s a little more unique to them, so keep that in mind, but if in doubt go for a clean and polished look that plays up one of your best features. For example Princess Lalla Salma plays up her beautiful eyes and keeps the rest of her makeup a softer color.
The same applies for your hairstyle. If you can choose a style unique to your countries culture, go for it! How fun is that? Otherwise, choose a style that's flattering and fresh. Long loose waves are pretty, but if it’s windy and the party is outside, you’re going to be wishing for a hair clip! Up do’s, twists, braids or a low pony could work beautifully. Thanks, Hope. Those are all great tips and I love my new outfit! I look forward to seeing what everyone else has chosen on Saturday.
Tomorrow is the LAST DAY of #NationalPrincessWeek! That means the contest is slipping away QUICKLY. If you haven’t entered yet, be sure you do that right away.
And if you haven’t stopped by my Facebook page yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community. What country would you choose to style your outfit after for Saturday’s tea? Tell me about it in the comments below!
Don't forget to Enter to Win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.
For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links.
Check out the Twitter activity too: @aprilerwin
Follow April's board National Princess Week International Tea Party on Pinterest.
Welcome back to #NationalPrincessWeek! A week for us to celebrate the little girl (or not so little girl) in all of us that at some point dreamed of being royalty and finding her Prince Charming.
I love to read to my dolls, just like Kianna reads to us. (I wear my princess hat of course.) This book is a really good one to read out loud and it’s not too hard for me. Plus, my dolls really love the pretty drawings and cute animals. I don’t think I’d want to sleep for a hundred years, I don’t even take naps if I can help it. But a kiss from a handsome prince to wake me up, well I think I’d like that a LOT!
Sleeping Beauty by J and W Grimm
“A frog tells a childless queen that she will bear a daughter. At the girl’s christening, an uninvited fairy utters a death curse, which another fairy amends. As foretold, at age 15, the princess pricks her finger on a spindle and sleeps for 100 years, along with everyone in the castle, which is soon protected by a lethal, thorny hedge. After 100 years, a prince finds the now-flowering hedge, which opens to let him pass. He awakens Sleeping Beauty with a kiss, and the court celebrates their wedding.”
I have another series for you today, but this one definitely puts a unique spin on being a princess! I love the idea of being saved or rescued by a handsome prince, but let’s face it, we’re all modern women and we do a lot more saving of ourselves these days. We have goals and dreams and plans and it’s not considered so strange anymore to pursue them. It’s okay to Dream Big! *gasp* LOL! Okay, so I’m being a little melodramatic, but with the Princess of Valendria Series by Mary Waibel it was fun to see the Princess and Prince have their roles reversed. I suppose you could say, Princesses can slay the dragon and roast it, too!Quest of the Heart
A reverse Sleeping Beauty tale where the princess goes on the quest to save the prince.Princess Kaylee has never had to fight for anything. Her entire life has been arranged, even her marriage. But when Prince Devlin falls under an enchantment, she finds she is willing to do anything to save him, even if it means fighting a dragon.
Devlin's own sister, Princess Arabella, is behind the deadly plot. She wants the throne and will use any means necessary to gain it. Her perfect plan unravels, leaving Devlin caught in a magical sleep that is slowly spreading through the kingdom of Breniera. All Arabella needs to finish her spell and claim the crown is a drop of Kaylee's blood, but obtaining the single drop is proving more difficult than expected.
To save her betrothed, Kaylee embarks on a quest to find an ancient sword and gather a drop of dragon's blood, while trying to stay out of Arabella's traps. But Arabella's traps aren't the only danger. Time is everything. For once the last inhabitant of the kingdom falls asleep, the spell will be sealed, and not even true love's kiss will break it.
Charmed Memories
A prince vows to prove the girl he loves is his missing princess by recovering her lost memories.Prince Trevor has always placed duty to his kingdom above the desires of his own heart. But when his betrothed is lost at sea, he finds himself torn between honor and love.
After four years of searching for the missing princess, he begins to secretly long for Lady Bri, the Woodland Guide he works with each day. But the law says he must marry a princess, and Bri is barely a noble.
When Trevor learns that Bri shipwrecked at the same time and place as the princess, he begins to believe he has finally found his bride-to-be. But his happiness is short lived. Bri has no memory of her past, and the princess wasn't the only girl who disappeared from the ship.
Desperate to prove Bri is his princess, Trevor unwittingly places the two of them in grave danger. Buried in Bri's memories are deadly secrets someone wants kept from the light of day, and learning who she is may cost more than either is willing to pay.
Different Kind of Knight
Happily-ever-after isn't guaranteed. Sometimes you have to fight for it.Through a twist of fate, Princess Gabrielle became First Knight of the King's Elite Guard, a position always held by the second born male. She's spent years proving to the Minsters of Faldaera she's capable of leading the king’s Army.
When mythical creatures plague her kingdom, Rielle is sent to capture Captain Brody, the alleged culprit behind the attacks and the man who broke her heart four years ago.
Brody, Crown Prince of Delphine, is living in self-imposed exile, atoning for the sins of his father. But Fate has different plans for him. Tired, beaten down, and ready to give up on life, he is tossed into the path of the one person he would do anything for―Princess Gabrielle.
With a traitor in her ranks, and a mark on her head, Brody joins forces with Rielle, hoping to keep the woman he loves safe. Happily-ever-after is not guaranteed, and mythical creatures aren't the only danger the couple face. As battles rage, Rielle has the chance to prove herself a capable leader, but will doing so cost her the love of her life?
Today, Hope is back with us. Welcome back, Hope, I see you’ve been shopping! What is in all of these bags? How did you manage to carry them all in by yourself?
I didn’t, that’s what cute, helpful neighbor boys are for. Now that the last bag is in, I can’t wait to show you what I have planned.
Oh, wait, let me guess… A makeover?
Yes! My favorite project. :)And you, Cherry-Locks get to be my guinea pig.
Okay, sure, a new look can’t hurt. Have at it!
Since we have the #NationalPrincessWeek International Tea Party on Saturday, then we have to have you ready for it. I want to show everyone some tips on how to dress like a Princess on a Pauper’s budget.
Cute! Okay, so what is the first step?
Outfit – You can dress up, you can dress down, you can skip the dress altogether, but what will make your outfit seem right, is the setting for your party. If you know the theme is English Tea Garden with lots of lace and pretty hats, then a dress with soft colors or a muted floral pattern could work well. If you don’t ever wear dresses, consider white or a light neutral color pant with a more delicate blouse. Just don’t wear jeans. Unless the tea party is more of a Hang out with Friends and Get Crazy kind of event (those are a blast!)
Since we know that our theme is International Princess, I suggest choosing a country your drawn to and style yourself after a princess from that country. That’s a good idea. Since you have so many sacks already, I’m guessing you’ve already chosen a country for me?
I have! I Picked Morocco - more specifically, Princess Lalla Salma of Morocco. The two of you share a really striking shade of hair. Plus the clothing has a beautiful flow, color and texture. It’s bright, pretty and elegant but still unique and fun.
I know you’re not fond of dresses, so I’ve chosen a pair of pewter colored slacks paired with a dark purple Moroccan inspired top and silver strappy wedge sandals.Beautiful! I love purple. This shirt looks expensive, was it?
No, if you shop carefully, you can find a lot of good deals on beautiful pieces. Ebay, thrift shops or second hand stores, even retail can be reasonable if you’re shopping for something that’s trending. These Moroccan inspired tops are trending so they’re more common than you expect. If you can’t afford to shop at all, raid a friend or family members closet or get creative and re-purpose a piece of your own clothing. Give it a new life and you’ll wear it more often. Great idea. What about accessories? Do I get a tiara?
Um… no, but I do have some fabulous bling for you. If you want to wear a tiara though, don’t let me stop you, go for it!I found these great pieces made by Angel’s Divine Designs. The slave bracelet is quickly gaining popularity and it’s a statement piece that everyone will ask about. The earrings are real wire wrapped amethyst stones. Royal jewels with a little bit of a non-traditional touch to keep things interesting.
These are awesome! So now that my outfit is covered, what about make-up and hair?
Each culture has a style that’s a little more unique to them, so keep that in mind, but if in doubt go for a clean and polished look that plays up one of your best features. For example Princess Lalla Salma plays up her beautiful eyes and keeps the rest of her makeup a softer color.
The same applies for your hairstyle. If you can choose a style unique to your countries culture, go for it! How fun is that? Otherwise, choose a style that's flattering and fresh. Long loose waves are pretty, but if it’s windy and the party is outside, you’re going to be wishing for a hair clip! Up do’s, twists, braids or a low pony could work beautifully. Thanks, Hope. Those are all great tips and I love my new outfit! I look forward to seeing what everyone else has chosen on Saturday.
Tomorrow is the LAST DAY of #NationalPrincessWeek! That means the contest is slipping away QUICKLY. If you haven’t entered yet, be sure you do that right away.
And if you haven’t stopped by my Facebook page yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community. What country would you choose to style your outfit after for Saturday’s tea? Tell me about it in the comments below!
Don't forget to Enter to Win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links.
Check out the Twitter activity too: @aprilerwin
Follow April's board National Princess Week International Tea Party on Pinterest.
April 23, 2014
National Princess Week day 5
Song Stuck on the Brain: Maroon 5 - Payphone & Disney - Some Day My Prince Will Come Mashup w/ Felicia Day!
Welcome back to #NationalPrincessWeek! A week for us to celebrate the little girl (or not so little girl) in all of us that at some point dreamed of being royalty and finding her Prince Charming.
I love to dance. I wear my dancing slippers as often as Mama will let me. (They go really well with my princess hat.) It’s so much fun to think of dancing all night. This one is another favorite at bedtime.
The Twelve Dancing Princesses by Brigette Barrager
“In this fairy tale, twelve princesses wake up every morning to find their shoes are worn out and they are totally exhausted! A handsome suitor discovers that the princesses are enchanted, and that each night, in their sleep, they travel to a magical world to dance at a ball. Will this handsome suitor be able to break the spell and rescue the princesses?”
As much as I love SciFi, I’ve got something different in mind for you today. Do you know how hard it is to limit the number of Princess books I share with you?! There are so many good ones to choose from. I’ve always been drawn the writing style of Shannon Hale. Although she has many great titles, I just want to feature a few of my favs.
The Princess Academy
Miri lives on a mountain where, for generations, her ancestors have quarried stone and lived a simple life. Then word comes that the king's priests have divined her small village the home of the future princess. In a year's time, the prince himself will come and choose his bride from among the girls of the village. The king's ministers set up an academy on the mountain, and every teenage girl must attend and learn how to become a princess.
Miri soon finds herself confronted with a harsh academy mistress, bitter competition among the girls, and her own conflicting desires to be chosen and win the heart of her childhood best friend. But when bandits seek out the academy to kidnap the future princess, Miri must rally the girls together and use a power unique to the mountain dwellers to save herself and her classmates.
The Goose Girl
She can whisper to horses and communicate with birds, but the crown princess Ani has a difficult time finding her place in the royal family and measuring up to her imperial mother. When she is shipped off to a neighboring kingdom as a bride, her scheming entourage mounts a bloody mutiny to replace her with a jealous lady-in-waiting, Selia, and to allow an inner circle of guards more power in the new land. Barely escaping with her life, Ani disguises herself as a goose girl and wanders on the royal estate. Does she have the pluck to reclaim her rightful place? Get ready for a fine adventure tale full of danger, suspense, surprising twists, and a satisfying conclusion.
Enna Burning
When her mother dies, Enna leaves the city and her friends to move back home with her brother, Leifer. She thought life would be simpler and more manageable in the forest. But Enna's was not meant to be a simple life, and when Leifer brings home a mysterious piece of vellum and starts setting fires-without a spark, without flint-something seems wrong. Enna cannot decide if that something is a power she wants for herself, or if it's a power that should be extinguished forever. And when her country, Bayern, goes to war, that choice becomes unbearable as her friendships are tested and her sense of self nearly lost in the fires she creates. Ultimately Enna and her best friend, Isi, take a nearly impossible journey in search of a cure for the war around them-and for the wars within themselves.
Rissa is back with us today with another great project for the week. Welcome, Rissa, show us what you’ve got?
I was trolling Youtube.com and found some great creative ideas that I had to share. When I saw this video for how to make a Princess Costume without sewing I knew that was a perfect addition the hat we made earlier in the week. This is super simple. Make it in under 15 minutes and for less than $20-$25. SO much cheaper than buying a costume that she will outgrow in months.
How to Make a Princess Costume
The project I really want to share with you today, though is how to recreate a journal like Kianna’s. In Dysfunction Junction Alexa gives Kianna a blue journal with silver foil shooting stars across the front. It’s Kee’s Dream Big Journal. A place to record her songs and writings as she pursues her dreams.
I think everyone needs a Dream Big journal, even if you aren’t writing songs. You can record so much to help motivate you toward that success you desire. All these modern day princesses being featured on April’s Facebook page have accomplished great things, Princess isn’t all they have on their resumes.
To create your journal you’ll need to purchase:
A baby blue (or your favorite color) journal. A leatherette type cover would probably work best.
A shooting star stamp that has a pretty solid surface. If you want varying sizes to create a pattern of varied sizes.
Next, watch the two videos below and decide which technique works best for you and purchase the supplies recommended in the video ( unless you already have them. BONUS! )
Stampee.net - Applying Stamp-N-Foil with a Heat Gun
or
Homemade Foil Transfer Rub Ons
Using your chosen technique, stamp your stars in a falling pattern from top right descending to bottom left of the corner. Want to go crazy? Do the back too!
Then sit down and record those Big Dreams and what you’re doing to pursue them. I think you’re going to love this quick and easy project so much, you’ll be making Dream Big journals for everyone you know. Have fun!
Only 2 more days to go! Princess is week almost over, but don’t leave us yet, there are still great things to go all the way through Saturday. If you haven’t stopped by my Facebookpage yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community. Do you have a favorite princess? Tell me about it in the comments below!
But before you go, don’t forget to enter to win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.
For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links.
Welcome back to #NationalPrincessWeek! A week for us to celebrate the little girl (or not so little girl) in all of us that at some point dreamed of being royalty and finding her Prince Charming.
I love to dance. I wear my dancing slippers as often as Mama will let me. (They go really well with my princess hat.) It’s so much fun to think of dancing all night. This one is another favorite at bedtime. 
The Twelve Dancing Princesses by Brigette Barrager “In this fairy tale, twelve princesses wake up every morning to find their shoes are worn out and they are totally exhausted! A handsome suitor discovers that the princesses are enchanted, and that each night, in their sleep, they travel to a magical world to dance at a ball. Will this handsome suitor be able to break the spell and rescue the princesses?”
As much as I love SciFi, I’ve got something different in mind for you today. Do you know how hard it is to limit the number of Princess books I share with you?! There are so many good ones to choose from. I’ve always been drawn the writing style of Shannon Hale. Although she has many great titles, I just want to feature a few of my favs.The Princess Academy
Miri lives on a mountain where, for generations, her ancestors have quarried stone and lived a simple life. Then word comes that the king's priests have divined her small village the home of the future princess. In a year's time, the prince himself will come and choose his bride from among the girls of the village. The king's ministers set up an academy on the mountain, and every teenage girl must attend and learn how to become a princess.Miri soon finds herself confronted with a harsh academy mistress, bitter competition among the girls, and her own conflicting desires to be chosen and win the heart of her childhood best friend. But when bandits seek out the academy to kidnap the future princess, Miri must rally the girls together and use a power unique to the mountain dwellers to save herself and her classmates.
The Goose Girl
She can whisper to horses and communicate with birds, but the crown princess Ani has a difficult time finding her place in the royal family and measuring up to her imperial mother. When she is shipped off to a neighboring kingdom as a bride, her scheming entourage mounts a bloody mutiny to replace her with a jealous lady-in-waiting, Selia, and to allow an inner circle of guards more power in the new land. Barely escaping with her life, Ani disguises herself as a goose girl and wanders on the royal estate. Does she have the pluck to reclaim her rightful place? Get ready for a fine adventure tale full of danger, suspense, surprising twists, and a satisfying conclusion.Enna Burning
When her mother dies, Enna leaves the city and her friends to move back home with her brother, Leifer. She thought life would be simpler and more manageable in the forest. But Enna's was not meant to be a simple life, and when Leifer brings home a mysterious piece of vellum and starts setting fires-without a spark, without flint-something seems wrong. Enna cannot decide if that something is a power she wants for herself, or if it's a power that should be extinguished forever. And when her country, Bayern, goes to war, that choice becomes unbearable as her friendships are tested and her sense of self nearly lost in the fires she creates. Ultimately Enna and her best friend, Isi, take a nearly impossible journey in search of a cure for the war around them-and for the wars within themselves.Rissa is back with us today with another great project for the week. Welcome, Rissa, show us what you’ve got?
I was trolling Youtube.com and found some great creative ideas that I had to share. When I saw this video for how to make a Princess Costume without sewing I knew that was a perfect addition the hat we made earlier in the week. This is super simple. Make it in under 15 minutes and for less than $20-$25. SO much cheaper than buying a costume that she will outgrow in months.
How to Make a Princess Costume
The project I really want to share with you today, though is how to recreate a journal like Kianna’s. In Dysfunction Junction Alexa gives Kianna a blue journal with silver foil shooting stars across the front. It’s Kee’s Dream Big Journal. A place to record her songs and writings as she pursues her dreams.
I think everyone needs a Dream Big journal, even if you aren’t writing songs. You can record so much to help motivate you toward that success you desire. All these modern day princesses being featured on April’s Facebook page have accomplished great things, Princess isn’t all they have on their resumes. To create your journal you’ll need to purchase:
A baby blue (or your favorite color) journal. A leatherette type cover would probably work best.
A shooting star stamp that has a pretty solid surface. If you want varying sizes to create a pattern of varied sizes.
Next, watch the two videos below and decide which technique works best for you and purchase the supplies recommended in the video ( unless you already have them. BONUS! )
Stampee.net - Applying Stamp-N-Foil with a Heat Gun
or
Homemade Foil Transfer Rub Ons
Using your chosen technique, stamp your stars in a falling pattern from top right descending to bottom left of the corner. Want to go crazy? Do the back too!
Then sit down and record those Big Dreams and what you’re doing to pursue them. I think you’re going to love this quick and easy project so much, you’ll be making Dream Big journals for everyone you know. Have fun!
Only 2 more days to go! Princess is week almost over, but don’t leave us yet, there are still great things to go all the way through Saturday. If you haven’t stopped by my Facebookpage yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community. Do you have a favorite princess? Tell me about it in the comments below!
But before you go, don’t forget to enter to win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links.
April 22, 2014
National Princess Week day 4
Song Stuck on the Brain: Princes and Frogs by Superchick
Welcome back to #NationalPrincessWeek! A week for us to celebrate the little girl (or not so little girl) in all of us that at some point dreamed of being royalty and finding her Prince Charming.
I want to be a princess with super powers. Doesn’t that sound cool? A princess who could run faster than a train or who could be invisible and hide from the aunt that pinches my cheeks too hard; or even better, on who could turn vegetables to candy. I’d always eat my Brussels sprouts then. Hyacinth can’t turn things into candy, but she does have a cool ability. She floats!Princess Hyacinth (The Surprising Tale of a Girl Who Floated) by Florence Parry Heide
“Princess Hyacinth has a problem: she floats. And so the king and queen have pebbles sewn into the tops of her socks, and force her to wear a crown encrusted with the heaviest jewels in the kingdom to keep her earthbound. But one day, Hyacinth comes across a balloon man and decides to take off all her princess clothes, grab a balloon, and float free. Hooray! Alas, when the balloon man lets go of the string . . . off she goes. Luckily, there is a kite and a boy named Boy to save her.”
As long as we’re in a SciFi mode from yesterday, I want mention another fun series I’ve discovered that combines the best of several genres. Re-imagined fairy tales set in a dystopian, futuristic setting - Cinderella as a Cyborg? NO WAY! I thought for sure it wouldn’t work. But it does, really well. The whole series does, I promise. So be prepared to try something truly unique and be impressed. Check out the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer.
Cinder
Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. . . .
Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.
Scarlet
Cinder is back and trying to break out of prison—even though she’ll be the Commonwealth’s most wanted fugitive if she does—in this second installment from Marissa Meyer.
Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit’s grandmother is missing. It turns out there are many things Scarlet doesn't know about her grandmother, or the grave danger she has lived in her whole life. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother's whereabouts, she is loath to trust this stranger, but is inexplicably drawn to him, and he to her. As Scarlet and Wolf unravel one mystery, they encounter another when they meet Cinder. Now, all of them must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen Levana.
Cress
In this third book in Marissa Meyer's bestselling Lunar Chronicles series, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, now with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they’re plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and prevent her army from invading Earth.Their best hope lies with Cress, a girl trapped on a satellite since childhood who’s only ever had her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker. Unfortunately, she’s being forced to work for Queen Levana, and she’s just received orders to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice.
When a daring rescue of Cress goes awry, the group is splintered. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a higher price than she’d ever expected. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing prevent her marriage to Emperor Kai, especially the cyborg mechanic. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only hope the world has.
Winter
The final book in the series is said to release in 2015. Can’t wait!
I want to welcome Alexa, Kianna’s housemate and best friend. They met as roomies in college and have been tight ever since. Alexa is a party planner and loves to cook. What do you have for us, Alexa?I have wonderful plans for all of you. National Princess Week just begs for a party, doesn’t it? How about an International Tea Party? I think it sounds like a lot of fun too. With my ideas here and on my Pinterest page, you can whip something together in time to host it this weekend and see the holiday out with a bang!(Follow April's board National Princess Week International Tea Party on Pinterest.)
There are so many directions you could go with food, decorations, even entertainment – it’s all about who your guests are and what you have time to create. There’s a wide variety of options on the Pinterest page, but pick and choose what you like best. :)I had to share a couple of recipes with you here, because I’m just that kind of girl. I love trying new recipes. When I saw Giada’s recipe on FoodNetwork.com, I knew it would be perfect. I’m teasing the title just a bit. (Hope you don’t mind, Giada.)
“Princess and the Pea” Pesto Crostini
Total Time: 12 minPrep: 10 minCook: 2 minYield: 4 to 6 servingsLevel: Easy
IngredientsPesto:1 (10-ounce) package frozen peas, defrosted1 garlic clove1/2 cup grated Parmesan1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus extra for seasoning1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus extra for seasoning1/3 cup olive oilCrostini:8 (1/2-inch thick) slices whole-grain baguette or ciabatta bread, preferably day-old, * see Cook's Note1/3 cup olive oil8 cherry tomatoes, halved or 1 small tomato, dicedDirectionsFor the pea pesto: Pulse together the peas, garlic, Parmesan, 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper in a food processor. With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil until well combined, about 1 to 2 minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
For the crostini: Preheat a stovetop griddleor grill pan on medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the sliced bread with olive oil and grill until golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the bread to a clean surface and spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of the prepared pesto on each slice.
Top with tomato halves and serve.
*Cook's note: If you don't have day-old bread on hand, you can dry out fresh bread by putting the slices in a preheated 300 degree F oven until slightly crisp, about 5 minutes.
And because I always like a little sweet with my savory, try these little yummies.
Snow White’s Apple Bites (Mini Caramel Apples)
Ingredients· Extra-large apples · Caramels + 2 Tbsp milk· Lollipop sticks· A metal Tbsp coffee scoop· Wax paper & plates or a cookie sheet
Easy, follow the steps in the picture and try not to eat them all before the party!
Now for the drink, tea is expected and for a fun flair I recommend Jasmine tea. Divine flavor and fits the princess theme. But for those who just don’t enjoy tea, it’s nice to offer an alternative. How about something cold? Like...
Princess Elsa’s Icy Margaritas
Ingredients:White sprinkles Light Corn Syrup Blue koolaid (any blue drink) Pina Colada SOBE drink (any white drink)
Pour a little corn syrup into a plate, then dip the rim of the cup into the syrup. Next dip the rim of the cup into sprinkles that have been poured out onto a plate. You can make the cups ahead of time and let them dry so once the party starts all you have to do is pour the drinks.
There are so many ways you can decorate. Want high tea with a lot of class? Think flowers and pretty lacy table decorations. If it’s for a younger crowd, go for a more sparkly fairy tale feel with costumes and wands and tiaras for everyone. There are so many ways to have a great time at this party. Be sure to share your ideas with us in the comments below. I’d love to know what you plan for your party.
Only 3 more days to go and there is still a lot more to come! If you haven’t stopped by my Facebook page yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community. Do you have a favorite princess? Tell me about it in the comments below!
And don’t forget to Enter to Win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.
For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links.
Welcome back to #NationalPrincessWeek! A week for us to celebrate the little girl (or not so little girl) in all of us that at some point dreamed of being royalty and finding her Prince Charming.
I want to be a princess with super powers. Doesn’t that sound cool? A princess who could run faster than a train or who could be invisible and hide from the aunt that pinches my cheeks too hard; or even better, on who could turn vegetables to candy. I’d always eat my Brussels sprouts then. Hyacinth can’t turn things into candy, but she does have a cool ability. She floats!Princess Hyacinth (The Surprising Tale of a Girl Who Floated) by Florence Parry Heide “Princess Hyacinth has a problem: she floats. And so the king and queen have pebbles sewn into the tops of her socks, and force her to wear a crown encrusted with the heaviest jewels in the kingdom to keep her earthbound. But one day, Hyacinth comes across a balloon man and decides to take off all her princess clothes, grab a balloon, and float free. Hooray! Alas, when the balloon man lets go of the string . . . off she goes. Luckily, there is a kite and a boy named Boy to save her.”
As long as we’re in a SciFi mode from yesterday, I want mention another fun series I’ve discovered that combines the best of several genres. Re-imagined fairy tales set in a dystopian, futuristic setting - Cinderella as a Cyborg? NO WAY! I thought for sure it wouldn’t work. But it does, really well. The whole series does, I promise. So be prepared to try something truly unique and be impressed. Check out the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer. Cinder
Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. . . . Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.
Scarlet
Cinder is back and trying to break out of prison—even though she’ll be the Commonwealth’s most wanted fugitive if she does—in this second installment from Marissa Meyer. Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit’s grandmother is missing. It turns out there are many things Scarlet doesn't know about her grandmother, or the grave danger she has lived in her whole life. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother's whereabouts, she is loath to trust this stranger, but is inexplicably drawn to him, and he to her. As Scarlet and Wolf unravel one mystery, they encounter another when they meet Cinder. Now, all of them must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen Levana.
Cress
In this third book in Marissa Meyer's bestselling Lunar Chronicles series, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, now with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they’re plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and prevent her army from invading Earth.Their best hope lies with Cress, a girl trapped on a satellite since childhood who’s only ever had her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker. Unfortunately, she’s being forced to work for Queen Levana, and she’s just received orders to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice. When a daring rescue of Cress goes awry, the group is splintered. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a higher price than she’d ever expected. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing prevent her marriage to Emperor Kai, especially the cyborg mechanic. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only hope the world has.
Winter
The final book in the series is said to release in 2015. Can’t wait!
I want to welcome Alexa, Kianna’s housemate and best friend. They met as roomies in college and have been tight ever since. Alexa is a party planner and loves to cook. What do you have for us, Alexa?I have wonderful plans for all of you. National Princess Week just begs for a party, doesn’t it? How about an International Tea Party? I think it sounds like a lot of fun too. With my ideas here and on my Pinterest page, you can whip something together in time to host it this weekend and see the holiday out with a bang!(Follow April's board National Princess Week International Tea Party on Pinterest.)
There are so many directions you could go with food, decorations, even entertainment – it’s all about who your guests are and what you have time to create. There’s a wide variety of options on the Pinterest page, but pick and choose what you like best. :)I had to share a couple of recipes with you here, because I’m just that kind of girl. I love trying new recipes. When I saw Giada’s recipe on FoodNetwork.com, I knew it would be perfect. I’m teasing the title just a bit. (Hope you don’t mind, Giada.)
“Princess and the Pea” Pesto Crostini
Total Time: 12 minPrep: 10 minCook: 2 minYield: 4 to 6 servingsLevel: Easy
IngredientsPesto:1 (10-ounce) package frozen peas, defrosted1 garlic clove1/2 cup grated Parmesan1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus extra for seasoning1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus extra for seasoning1/3 cup olive oilCrostini:8 (1/2-inch thick) slices whole-grain baguette or ciabatta bread, preferably day-old, * see Cook's Note1/3 cup olive oil8 cherry tomatoes, halved or 1 small tomato, dicedDirectionsFor the pea pesto: Pulse together the peas, garlic, Parmesan, 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper in a food processor. With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil until well combined, about 1 to 2 minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
For the crostini: Preheat a stovetop griddleor grill pan on medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the sliced bread with olive oil and grill until golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the bread to a clean surface and spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of the prepared pesto on each slice.
Top with tomato halves and serve.
*Cook's note: If you don't have day-old bread on hand, you can dry out fresh bread by putting the slices in a preheated 300 degree F oven until slightly crisp, about 5 minutes.
And because I always like a little sweet with my savory, try these little yummies.
Snow White’s Apple Bites (Mini Caramel Apples)
Ingredients· Extra-large apples · Caramels + 2 Tbsp milk· Lollipop sticks· A metal Tbsp coffee scoop· Wax paper & plates or a cookie sheet
Easy, follow the steps in the picture and try not to eat them all before the party!
Now for the drink, tea is expected and for a fun flair I recommend Jasmine tea. Divine flavor and fits the princess theme. But for those who just don’t enjoy tea, it’s nice to offer an alternative. How about something cold? Like...
Princess Elsa’s Icy Margaritas
Ingredients:White sprinkles Light Corn Syrup Blue koolaid (any blue drink) Pina Colada SOBE drink (any white drink) Pour a little corn syrup into a plate, then dip the rim of the cup into the syrup. Next dip the rim of the cup into sprinkles that have been poured out onto a plate. You can make the cups ahead of time and let them dry so once the party starts all you have to do is pour the drinks.
There are so many ways you can decorate. Want high tea with a lot of class? Think flowers and pretty lacy table decorations. If it’s for a younger crowd, go for a more sparkly fairy tale feel with costumes and wands and tiaras for everyone. There are so many ways to have a great time at this party. Be sure to share your ideas with us in the comments below. I’d love to know what you plan for your party.Only 3 more days to go and there is still a lot more to come! If you haven’t stopped by my Facebook page yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community. Do you have a favorite princess? Tell me about it in the comments below!
And don’t forget to Enter to Win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links.
CFBA: A Promise in Pieces by Emily T. Wierenga
Song Stuck on the Brain: God's Not Dead by Newsboys
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
A Promise in Pieces
Abingdon Press (April 15, 2014)by
Emily T. Wierenga
MY TAKE:
A very sweet and moving story. Even in the middle of World War II, not all innocence has been destroyed. Clara begins as a young impulsive young woman ready to take on the world and make a difference, unaware of how much it will truly change her life. When she returns home from war life has taken on a whole new meaning.
I don't the think the dates matter, war is war and the experiences in it are universal. So much of what Clara shares is identifiable, even 80 years later.
Great story, don't miss it.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After the end of World War II, Clara Kirkpatrick returns from the Women’s Army Corp to deliver a dying soldier’s last wishes: convey his love to his young widow, Mattie, with apologies for the missed life they had planned to share.
Struggling with her own post-war trauma, Clara thinks she’s not prepared to handle the grief of this broken family. Yet upon meeting Mattie, and receiving a baby quilt that will never cuddle the soldier’s baby, Clara vows to honor the sacrifices that family made.
Now a labor and delivery nurse in her rural hometown, Clara wraps each new babe in the gifted quilt and later stitches the child’s name into the cloth. As each new child is welcomed by the quilt, Clara begins to wonder whatever happened to Mattie—and if her own life would ever experience the love of a newborn. Little does she know that she will have the opportunity to re-gift the special quilt—years later and carrying even greater significance than when it was first bestowed.
If you would like to read the first chapter of A Promise in Pieces, go HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A Word from the Author:
I’m Emily, and I’m honored and humbled to meet you, friend. We’re all stumbling along on this journey and you can approach me about anything okay? I’m an open book, with dog-eared pages and a worn cover.
I’m mama to two boys, ages two and four, and married to a farm-boy-turned-math-teacher. We live in a small Dutch hamlet with three churches, one Co-Op and no stop lights. There are a lot of fields out here, there’s a lot of space and sky for breathing and running and writing.
We foster two boys in addition to our own two, and before I had kids, I took care of my Mum who had brain cancer. She fought back and has recovered, all glory to God, and my pastor-father still holds her hand while they go for daily walks.
I battled anorexia nervosa as a child, and then again as a newly married woman, and I write a lot about body image now and have a passion for women to learn to love themselves.
My husband and I have battled infertility and are currently trying to adopt our third child through the local Alberta government.
I hurt for the church, and believe in it, and pray for it, as I’ve grown up inside its walls and have heard its groanings.
I have a heart for Africa, particularly Uganda, and went there in January on a bloggers’ trip with World Help.
My favorite things to do are read literary novels, play guitar, snowboard, paint with oil and acrylics and hug my babies.
I am the author of two books on eating disorders, a novel releasing this spring, and a memoir coming out this summer.
I hope you’ll connect with me on FB: https://www.facebook.com/emilytwierenga, or if you prefer, Twitter: @emily_wierenga. I’d love to have a virtual glass of wine, or cup of coffee, with you.
Peace to you friends,
E.
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:
A Promise in Pieces
Abingdon Press (April 15, 2014)by
Emily T. Wierenga
MY TAKE:
A very sweet and moving story. Even in the middle of World War II, not all innocence has been destroyed. Clara begins as a young impulsive young woman ready to take on the world and make a difference, unaware of how much it will truly change her life. When she returns home from war life has taken on a whole new meaning.
I don't the think the dates matter, war is war and the experiences in it are universal. So much of what Clara shares is identifiable, even 80 years later.
Great story, don't miss it.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After the end of World War II, Clara Kirkpatrick returns from the Women’s Army Corp to deliver a dying soldier’s last wishes: convey his love to his young widow, Mattie, with apologies for the missed life they had planned to share.Struggling with her own post-war trauma, Clara thinks she’s not prepared to handle the grief of this broken family. Yet upon meeting Mattie, and receiving a baby quilt that will never cuddle the soldier’s baby, Clara vows to honor the sacrifices that family made.
Now a labor and delivery nurse in her rural hometown, Clara wraps each new babe in the gifted quilt and later stitches the child’s name into the cloth. As each new child is welcomed by the quilt, Clara begins to wonder whatever happened to Mattie—and if her own life would ever experience the love of a newborn. Little does she know that she will have the opportunity to re-gift the special quilt—years later and carrying even greater significance than when it was first bestowed.
If you would like to read the first chapter of A Promise in Pieces, go HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A Word from the Author:
I’m Emily, and I’m honored and humbled to meet you, friend. We’re all stumbling along on this journey and you can approach me about anything okay? I’m an open book, with dog-eared pages and a worn cover. I’m mama to two boys, ages two and four, and married to a farm-boy-turned-math-teacher. We live in a small Dutch hamlet with three churches, one Co-Op and no stop lights. There are a lot of fields out here, there’s a lot of space and sky for breathing and running and writing.
We foster two boys in addition to our own two, and before I had kids, I took care of my Mum who had brain cancer. She fought back and has recovered, all glory to God, and my pastor-father still holds her hand while they go for daily walks.
I battled anorexia nervosa as a child, and then again as a newly married woman, and I write a lot about body image now and have a passion for women to learn to love themselves.
My husband and I have battled infertility and are currently trying to adopt our third child through the local Alberta government.
I hurt for the church, and believe in it, and pray for it, as I’ve grown up inside its walls and have heard its groanings.
I have a heart for Africa, particularly Uganda, and went there in January on a bloggers’ trip with World Help.
My favorite things to do are read literary novels, play guitar, snowboard, paint with oil and acrylics and hug my babies.
I am the author of two books on eating disorders, a novel releasing this spring, and a memoir coming out this summer.
I hope you’ll connect with me on FB: https://www.facebook.com/emilytwierenga, or if you prefer, Twitter: @emily_wierenga. I’d love to have a virtual glass of wine, or cup of coffee, with you.
Peace to you friends,
E.
April 21, 2014
National Princess Week day 3
Song Stuck on the Brain: Cinderella by Steven Curtis Chapman
Welcome back to #NationalPrincessWeek! A week for us to celebrate the little girl (or not so little girl) in all of us that at some point dreamed of being royalty and finding her Prince Charming.
My all-time favorite princess story is Cinderella. I watch the Disney movie and I have a lot of Cinderella books too, but when Kianna showed this one to me at the bookstore. I got tingly all over and couldn’t help but touch the pictures! The story is a little different from the movie, but I don’t care. The book is BEAUTIFUL! It even has sparkles in the cover, cool, huh? Cinderella by Ruth Sanderson is so pretty you won’t want to put it down.
“Sweet Cinderella is forced to spend her days waiting on her cruel stepsisters and stepmother, almost forgetting that she, too, was once a fine young lady with handsome clothes and a soft bed to sleep in. But when Cinderella is left at home on the night of the Prince's ball, her fairy godmother turns pumpkin into coach, mice into horses, lizards into footmen, and Cinderella's rags into a beautiful ball gown. At the ball Cinderella secretly captures the heart of the Prince, but it is not until he finds the true owner of the delicate glass slipper that the two can live happily ever after.
Although she is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, a kind-hearted young woman manages to attend the palace ball with the help of her fairy godmother.”
You know, not every good princess story has to be a fairy tale - or even set on earth for that matter. One of the best princess series to read is the Firebird Trilogy by Kathy Tyers. I’ve read the trilogy more times than I can count and I never grow tired of it. When the new annotated e-book released along with 2 new sequels, I shattered my neighbors eardrums with my squealing! They’re worth every minute invested in you enjoy SciFi.
Firebird
Lady Firebird was born a princess of the royal family of Naetai. Because of her birthplace in the family, however, her life is expendable. Honorable suicide is the highest calling she could hope to attain. When she is chosen to lead an attack on the neighboring planet of VeeRon her death is expected. She is taken prisoner during the battle and is held by the enemy.
With her own people seeking her sacrifice, Firebird must choose between two worlds before she can carve out her new destiny. This is the story of Princess Firebird's personal spiritual battle and the eternal consequences it has not only for herself but for everyone around her and especially the man who loves her.
Fusion Fire
A NEW LIFE FOR LADY FIREBIRD
Lady Firebird didn’t fully understand her former enemy, the Sentinel Brennen Caldwell. That might take a lifetime. But she knew enough, loved enough, to embrace his mysteries--and his certainty--and to step out on the frightening path of pair bonding.
Exiled from her royal heritage, she had escaped the terrible fate of her birth as an expendable wastling. She fought heroically to save her adopted world from destruction. Bonded to Brennen, though, she finds herself the unexpected bearer of an ancient messianic prophecy.
While her royal family seeks to seal her doom, Firebird and Brennan face two implacable enemies--one from his past...and one from deep in her soul.
A Compelling Story of Honor and Adventure, Chronicling the Life of an Extraordinary Woman and Her Heroic Fight to Save a World in Peril.
Crown of Fire
Lady Firebird Angelo Caldwell has been sentenced to death "in absentia" for treason, sedition, and heresy. The last thing she expects is a summons to return home and be confirmed as an heiress of her royal house. But merciless foes are destroying entire cities of the Federate worlds. These renegades are trying to wipe out the messianic Caldwell bloodline, and they have almost eradicated the royal Angelos. To help trap an assassin, Firebird agrees to wear the heiress’s tiara for one day of perilous pageantry.
Still, Firebird’s deadliest enemy—the one that can destroy or bereave her—isn't that renegade assassin. Neither is it the despotic regent who hopes to seize the Angelos' throne, nor even the threat of dying in a desperate military strike at the renegades’ world.
Unless she can bring her own pride to heel, everything she cherishes will be lost.
Firebird: Trilogy In a single volume with newly created maps and annotations, here are the first three volumes of the beloved Firebird series.
Wind and Shadow
The desolate world Mikuhr is home to a once-proud people now on the verge of extinction. Conflict explodes when apprentice priest Kiel Caldwell arrives to investigate rumors of new spiritual revelation, but he is kidnapped by a demon possessed telepath who thinks he might be a predicted messiah. And when Kiel's loose-cannon military brother Kinnor arrives to investigate, a local leader with revenge on her mind threatens to bring down ruin on them all.
It's up to returning Mikuhran diplomat Wind Haworth to head off a conflict that could have spiritual, political and military consequences--but no one foresees the consequences of introducing the Mikuhran Wind Haworth to Federate military Sentinel Kinnor Caldwell.
Daystar
Times have changed for the telepathic Sentinels in the realm of the Federate Whorl. Persecution sends these genetically altered people fleeing to their sanctuary world, but a shipboard disaster exposes High Commander Brennen Caldwell to fatal radiation. Medical student Meris Cariole ends up stranded, an unwelcome outsider, at a sanctuary she never meant to invade.
On another world, wrongfully imprisoned Sentinel Jorah Caldwell receives a supernatural visitor. For generations, the Sentinel kindred has anticipated Boh-Dabar, the prophesied Word to Come. The visitor hails Jorah as Boh-Dabar. Can he believe the news?
Meanwhile, a mysterious stranger arrives at the sanctuary world, also claiming to be Boh-Dabar. Brennen and Firebird Caldwell, Meris, and Jorah are caught in a tangle of interstellar incidents that threaten the Sentinel kindred’s very existence.
And no one—anywhere—has anticipated the events that will shake the interstellar Federacy.
In the “Firebird” alternate universe, humankind has gone to the stars. The messianic bloodline has been genetically altered, and instantaneous communication links the settled worlds. Still, God’s character has not changed, nor have his promises failed. Daystar brings the saga to a conclusion that rocks the galaxies.
I want to introduce you to Hope, another friend of Kianna’s. Hope is the inquisitive one whose personality embodies her name. She’s always ready with advice and always ready for a little mischief and adventure. Welcome, Hope, what do you have to share with us today?
Hey, Everyone! Oh my goodness, I found some really fun quizzes! I love personality tests, especially the silly ones that tell you what character from your favorite book you are, or what color you embody. (I’m Yellow by the way J)
What color are you?
Since this is #NationalPrincessWeek, I had to share the latest princess quizzes with you. They’re a blast! Click on the picture to open the quiz and be sure to share your results in the comments below so we can all see how you did. J
We’re not quite half way through the week and there is still SOOO much more to come! If you haven’t stopped by my Facebook page yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community. Do you have a favorite princess? Tell me about it in the comments below! And don’t forget to Enter to Win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.
For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links.
Welcome back to #NationalPrincessWeek! A week for us to celebrate the little girl (or not so little girl) in all of us that at some point dreamed of being royalty and finding her Prince Charming.
My all-time favorite princess story is Cinderella. I watch the Disney movie and I have a lot of Cinderella books too, but when Kianna showed this one to me at the bookstore. I got tingly all over and couldn’t help but touch the pictures! The story is a little different from the movie, but I don’t care. The book is BEAUTIFUL! It even has sparkles in the cover, cool, huh? Cinderella by Ruth Sanderson is so pretty you won’t want to put it down.“Sweet Cinderella is forced to spend her days waiting on her cruel stepsisters and stepmother, almost forgetting that she, too, was once a fine young lady with handsome clothes and a soft bed to sleep in. But when Cinderella is left at home on the night of the Prince's ball, her fairy godmother turns pumpkin into coach, mice into horses, lizards into footmen, and Cinderella's rags into a beautiful ball gown. At the ball Cinderella secretly captures the heart of the Prince, but it is not until he finds the true owner of the delicate glass slipper that the two can live happily ever after.
Although she is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, a kind-hearted young woman manages to attend the palace ball with the help of her fairy godmother.”
You know, not every good princess story has to be a fairy tale - or even set on earth for that matter. One of the best princess series to read is the Firebird Trilogy by Kathy Tyers. I’ve read the trilogy more times than I can count and I never grow tired of it. When the new annotated e-book released along with 2 new sequels, I shattered my neighbors eardrums with my squealing! They’re worth every minute invested in you enjoy SciFi.Firebird
Lady Firebird was born a princess of the royal family of Naetai. Because of her birthplace in the family, however, her life is expendable. Honorable suicide is the highest calling she could hope to attain. When she is chosen to lead an attack on the neighboring planet of VeeRon her death is expected. She is taken prisoner during the battle and is held by the enemy. With her own people seeking her sacrifice, Firebird must choose between two worlds before she can carve out her new destiny. This is the story of Princess Firebird's personal spiritual battle and the eternal consequences it has not only for herself but for everyone around her and especially the man who loves her.
Fusion Fire
A NEW LIFE FOR LADY FIREBIRD Lady Firebird didn’t fully understand her former enemy, the Sentinel Brennen Caldwell. That might take a lifetime. But she knew enough, loved enough, to embrace his mysteries--and his certainty--and to step out on the frightening path of pair bonding.
Exiled from her royal heritage, she had escaped the terrible fate of her birth as an expendable wastling. She fought heroically to save her adopted world from destruction. Bonded to Brennen, though, she finds herself the unexpected bearer of an ancient messianic prophecy.
While her royal family seeks to seal her doom, Firebird and Brennan face two implacable enemies--one from his past...and one from deep in her soul.
A Compelling Story of Honor and Adventure, Chronicling the Life of an Extraordinary Woman and Her Heroic Fight to Save a World in Peril.
Crown of Fire
Lady Firebird Angelo Caldwell has been sentenced to death "in absentia" for treason, sedition, and heresy. The last thing she expects is a summons to return home and be confirmed as an heiress of her royal house. But merciless foes are destroying entire cities of the Federate worlds. These renegades are trying to wipe out the messianic Caldwell bloodline, and they have almost eradicated the royal Angelos. To help trap an assassin, Firebird agrees to wear the heiress’s tiara for one day of perilous pageantry. Still, Firebird’s deadliest enemy—the one that can destroy or bereave her—isn't that renegade assassin. Neither is it the despotic regent who hopes to seize the Angelos' throne, nor even the threat of dying in a desperate military strike at the renegades’ world.
Unless she can bring her own pride to heel, everything she cherishes will be lost.Firebird: Trilogy In a single volume with newly created maps and annotations, here are the first three volumes of the beloved Firebird series.
Wind and Shadow
The desolate world Mikuhr is home to a once-proud people now on the verge of extinction. Conflict explodes when apprentice priest Kiel Caldwell arrives to investigate rumors of new spiritual revelation, but he is kidnapped by a demon possessed telepath who thinks he might be a predicted messiah. And when Kiel's loose-cannon military brother Kinnor arrives to investigate, a local leader with revenge on her mind threatens to bring down ruin on them all.It's up to returning Mikuhran diplomat Wind Haworth to head off a conflict that could have spiritual, political and military consequences--but no one foresees the consequences of introducing the Mikuhran Wind Haworth to Federate military Sentinel Kinnor Caldwell.
Daystar
Times have changed for the telepathic Sentinels in the realm of the Federate Whorl. Persecution sends these genetically altered people fleeing to their sanctuary world, but a shipboard disaster exposes High Commander Brennen Caldwell to fatal radiation. Medical student Meris Cariole ends up stranded, an unwelcome outsider, at a sanctuary she never meant to invade.On another world, wrongfully imprisoned Sentinel Jorah Caldwell receives a supernatural visitor. For generations, the Sentinel kindred has anticipated Boh-Dabar, the prophesied Word to Come. The visitor hails Jorah as Boh-Dabar. Can he believe the news?
Meanwhile, a mysterious stranger arrives at the sanctuary world, also claiming to be Boh-Dabar. Brennen and Firebird Caldwell, Meris, and Jorah are caught in a tangle of interstellar incidents that threaten the Sentinel kindred’s very existence.
And no one—anywhere—has anticipated the events that will shake the interstellar Federacy.
In the “Firebird” alternate universe, humankind has gone to the stars. The messianic bloodline has been genetically altered, and instantaneous communication links the settled worlds. Still, God’s character has not changed, nor have his promises failed. Daystar brings the saga to a conclusion that rocks the galaxies.
I want to introduce you to Hope, another friend of Kianna’s. Hope is the inquisitive one whose personality embodies her name. She’s always ready with advice and always ready for a little mischief and adventure. Welcome, Hope, what do you have to share with us today?
Hey, Everyone! Oh my goodness, I found some really fun quizzes! I love personality tests, especially the silly ones that tell you what character from your favorite book you are, or what color you embody. (I’m Yellow by the way J)
What color are you?
Since this is #NationalPrincessWeek, I had to share the latest princess quizzes with you. They’re a blast! Click on the picture to open the quiz and be sure to share your results in the comments below so we can all see how you did. J
We’re not quite half way through the week and there is still SOOO much more to come! If you haven’t stopped by my Facebook page yet, be sure to check out the spotlight on Modern Day Princesses around the world. Being a princess is more than wearing pretty jewelry, now they have big aspirations. These girls are well educated and have careers of all kinds that benefit their community. Do you have a favorite princess? Tell me about it in the comments below! And don’t forget to Enter to Win!
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Available at all fine e-book sellersFinding true love these days feels impossible to Kianna Ravencamp, only dysfunction surrounds her. Her sister’s married to an abusive husband and marriages she’s admired for years are falling apart. Maybe relationships like her parent’s don’t exist anymore. She dreams of true love and a family, but she’s never even been kissed.For her birthday, her best friend gives her a journal and dares her to follow her dream of songwriting and vocal lessons quickly follow. Kianna’s finally dared to dream big… if the three men in her life don’t get in her way. Nick Steele, her new vocal partner is flirtatious and charming. Derek Simpson, the new vocal coach is asking her out for coffee. Even Jason Payne, a childhood friend is acting odd. For the first time in her life, she will have to navigate dating and flirtation. Will her inexperience be her downfall? How will these relationships affect her songwriting career? Letting go and trusting God is the only answer that brings the path to real love and success. Buy your copy today at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords and more. Click the Buy My Book tab for a list of direct links.
