April Erwin's Blog, page 14

National Princess Week day 2

Song Stuck on the Brain: Average Girl by Barlow Girl





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 princess stories, but I really like princesses that are spunky like me. That’s why The Princess Knight by Cornelia Funke is one of my favorites. I read it all the time. But when I need a good giggle, I like to read: The Princess and the Pig by Jonathan Emmett
“There's been a terrible mix-up in the royal nursery. Priscilla the princess has accidentally switched places with Pigmella, the farmer's new piglet. The kindly farmer and his wife believe it's the work of a good witch, while the ill-tempered king and queen blame the bad witch-after all, this happens in fairy tales all the time! While Priscilla grows up on the farm, poor yet very happy, things don't turn out quite so well for Pigmella. Kissing a frog has done wonders before, but will it work for a pig?”

I love a good series, don’t you? Well then get ready for another great Princess themed series. Melanie Dickerson’s re-imagined fairytales are romantic, adventurous and full of faith. Each one connected with me in a special way. There are 4 in the series, but Melanie Dickerson has announced a new title, The Princess Spy coming November 2014. You can’t miss these.






The Healers Apprentice
“Two Hearts. One Hope. Rose has been appointed as a healer's apprentice at Hagenheim Castle, a rare opportunity for a woodcutter's daughter like her. While she often feels uneasy at the sight of blood, Rose is determined to prove herself capable. Failure will mean returning home to marry the aging bachelor her mother has chosen for her---a bloated, disgusting merchant who makes Rose feel ill. When Lord Hamlin, the future duke, is injured, it is Rose who must tend to him. As she works to heal his wound, she begins to understand emotions she's never felt before and wonders if he feels the same. But falling in love is forbidden, as Lord Hamlin is betrothed to a mysterious young woman in hiding. As Rose's life spins toward confusion, she must take the first steps on a journey to discover her own destiny.”
The Merchant's Daughter
“An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice. Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past. Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.”
The Fairest Beauty
“A daring rescue. A difficult choice. Sophie desperately wants to get away from her stepmother's jealousy, and believes escape is her only chance to be happy. Then a young man named Gabe arrives from Hagenheim Castle, claiming she is betrothed to his older brother, and everything twists upside down. This could be Sophie's one chance at freedom---but can she trust another person to keep her safe? Gabe defied his parents Rose and Wilhelm by going to find Sophie, and now he believes they had a right to worry: the girl's inner and outer beauty has enchanted him. Though romance is impossible---she is his brother's future wife, and Gabe himself is betrothed to someone else---he promises himself he will see the mission through, no matter what. When the pair flee to the Cottage of the Seven, they find help---but also find their feelings for each other have grown. Now both must not only protect each other from the dangers around them---they must also protect their hearts.”
The Captive Maiden
“Happily Ever After ...Or Happily Nevermore? Gisela's childhood was filled with laughter and visits from nobles such as the duke and his young son. But since her father's death, each day has been filled with nothing but servitude to her stepmother. So when Gisela learns the duke's son, Valten---the boy she has daydreamed about for years---is throwing a ball in hopes of finding a wife, she vows to find a way to attend, even if it's only for a taste of a life she'll never have. To her surprise, she catches Valten's eye. Though he is rough around the edges, Gisela finds Valten has completely captured her heart. But other forces are bent on keeping the two from falling further in love, putting Gisela in more danger than she ever imagined.”
The Princess Spy
“Margaretha has always been a romantic, and hopes her newest suitor, Lord Claybrook, is destined to be her one true love. But then an injured man is brought to Hagenheim Castle, claiming to be an English lord who was attacked by Claybrook and left for dead. And only Margaretha---one of the few who speaks his language---understands the wild story. Margaretha finds herself unable to pass Colin's message along to her father, the duke, and convinces herself 'Lord Colin' is just an addled stranger. Then Colin retrieves an heirloom she lost in a well, and asks her to spy on Claybrook as repayment. Margaretha knows she could never be a spy---not only is she unable to keep anything secret, she's sure Colin is completely wrong about her potential betrothed. Though when Margaretha overhears Claybrook one day, she discovers her romantic notions may have been clouding her judgment about not only Colin but Claybrook as well. It is up to her to save her father and Hagenheim itself from Claybrook's wicked plot.”
Today I’d like to introduce you to Kianna’s gal pal Rissa. Rissa is married with a little boy named T.J. and he keeps her all kinds of busy, but despite being a new mom, she’s also the super creative one. She’s always making/designing/decorating something new. So today she’s stopping by to show us how to make our own awesome princess hats. Welcome, Rissa!
Hi, Cherry-Locks, great to meet you. Who knew one day Kianna’s journal would come to life so completely? Lol.
When someone mentions a princess hat, cone hats are the first thing that comes to mind for most people. They originated sometime in the late 15th century in Burgundy, France. They’re unique, but charming for little girls. SO, gather your supplies and I’ll show you how to make your own.
Things You'll Need:
*Heavy paper or poster board
*Pencil
*Scissors
*Tape 
*Felt
*Colored paper
*Faux jewels (optional)
*Glue
*2 yards sheer fabric
*Tape measure
*1/2 inch elastic
*Stapler
Instructions:
 1.  Draw a half circle on a large sheet of heavy paper. Decide how high you want the hat to be and make that measurement the height of the radius of the half circle.
 2.  Cut out the half circle shape and roll it to form a cone. Temporarily, tape the overlapping edges to secure them.
 3.  Place it on the child's head and adjust the size.
 4.  Adjust the tape so the hat fits comfortably. Cut away the excess paper so that the bottom edge of the hat is even.
 5.  Cut out felt or paper decorations of your choosing; glue them to the hat's exterior surface. Add faux jewels if desired. A border design around the bottom of the cone may represent a jeweled crown.
 6.  Make a small slice in the top of the cone and slide the corner ends of two, three-foot pieces of sheer fabric through the hole, so that they hang from the top, at the back of the head.
 7.  Drape one 3-foot piece of fabric over the cone and allow the other to hang lengthwise down the back. Secure the draped material to the cone with glue under the edge of the cone.
 8.  Measure under the child's chin, ear to ear, for the chin strap. Cut a length of 1/2-inch elastic to match the measurement.
 9.  Staple the elastic to each side of the princess hat. Make sure that the folded ends of the staples are on the outside of the hat.
Tips and Warnings
*The same technique can be used to make a hat of felt and fusing, sewn with machine or hand stitching.
*Decorate the fabric, if desired. Veil materials can be decorated with glitter to mimic gold and silver.Click HERE or HERE to see more.
We have 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.  

National Princess Week Day 1

Song Stuck on the Brain: Love Story by Taylor Swift


Hi! Welcome 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.

In my latest novel, Dysfunction Junction, you meet Kianna Ravencamp, a girl with big
dreams for true love and for success as a songwriter. Dreams that are a little scary, but worth pursuing despite all the craziness they bring. While Kianna pursues her dreams, she holds one of my dream jobs – managing a book store, including all the fun perks of being the story lady that reads to the children every day in a princess hat. It’s a happening place to be, any child will tell you. 

A lot will be happening this week, including a contest to win a great prize, so be sure to stick around to hear more about that.

But first, let me introduce you to a couple of friends of mine…



 Hi, I’m Curly-Locks; I visit Kianna, the story lady every day. She has a beautiful princess hat, but ONLY the story lady can wear it! That’s okay, I’m not jealous or nothin’. I’ve got my OWN princess hat. Since I already have a hat and my daddy calls me his Little Princess, Kianna asked me to be her story helper this week. Every day I’m going to tell you about a favorite princess inspired story book. Yay!

My book choice today is: The Princess Knight by Cornelia Funke

“Violet is a young princess who wishes she could show the world that she is just as brave and strong as her brothers. But her strict father insists that she get married, and her brothers only mock her when she wants to be included in their fun. So Violet decides to use her intelligence and bravery to show everyone--once and for all--what she's made of. Disguising herself as a boy, Violet takes part in a knights' jousting tournament. When she wins the contest, she reveals her true identity--and wins the prize of freedom!”


Hey everyone, my name’s Cherry-Locks, I’m featured in a mixed up fairytale written by Kianna in Dysfunction Junction. I’ll admit to being a sucker for a good fairytale romance and it doesn’t matter to me what age it’s written for. I’ll be co-hosting this Princess Shindig with Curly-Locks and featuring some of my fav Princess books too.

My selection today: Royal Wedding Series by Rachel Hauck featuring

Once Upon a Prince

"Once Upon a Prince, the first novel in the Royal Wedding series by best-selling author Rachel Hauck, treats you to a modern-day fairy tale. Susanna Truitt never dreamed of a great romance or being treated like a princess---just to marry the man she has loved for twelve years. But life isn't going according to plan. When her high-school-sweetheart-turned-Marine-officer breaks up instead of proposing, Susanna scrambles to rebuild her life. The last thing Prince Nathaniel expects to find on his American holiday to St. Simons Island is the queen of his heart. A prince has duties, and his family's tense political situation has chosen his bride for him. When Prince Nathaniel comes to Susanna's aid under the fabled Lover's Oak, he is blindsided by love. Their lives are worlds apart. He's a royal prince. She's an ordinary girl. But everything changes when Susanna receives an invitation to Nathaniel's coronation. It's the ultimate choice: His kingdom or her heart? God's will or their own? "

A March Bride (novella)

Susanna has found her true prince, and their happily ever after is just around the corner. But when Nate asks her to give up something precious to her, Susanna can't help but wonder if it's a sign that their love is not meant to be.

Susanna has found her true prince, and their happily ever after is just around the corner.
But when Nate asks her to give up something precious to her, Susanna can't help but wonder if it's a sign that their love is not meant to be.

Susanna Truitt (Once Upon A Prince) is three weeks from royalty. She'll soon marry King Nathaniel II of Brighton Kingdom. But when the government insists she renounce her American citizenship before the wedding, coupled with the lack of involvement by family and friends, Susanna's heart begins to doubt whether this marriage is God's plan for her.

Nathaniel would do anything for his bride-to-be. But he knows his position requires that she give up a lot to be with him. Her life will never be her own---right down to her very identity. When she travels home to St. Simon's Island, Georgia, right before the wedding, Nathaniel fears she won't return.
Gathering his courage, he devises a plan to win his bride all over again, and together they seek out a kingdom to treasure above all.

Princess Ever After

"Regina Beswick was born to be a princess. But she's content to be a small-town girl, running a classic auto restoration shop, unaware a secret destiny awaits her. One that will leap from the pages of her grandmother's hand-painted book of fairytales. Tanner Burkhardt is the stoic Minister of Culture for the Grand Duchy of Hessenberg. When he is tasked to retrieve the long-lost princess, he must overcome his fear of failure in order to secure his nation's future---and his own. Yet lurking in the political shadows is a fierce opponent with sinister plans to abolish the throne forever. Overwhelmed with opposition, Regina must decide if she's destined to restore old cars or an ancient nation. Together---with a little divine intervention---Regina and Tanner discover the truth of her heritage and the healing power of true love."

If you’d like a little peek at my story, here’s a clip now.

Cherry-Locks and the Three Men
(A sneak-peek from Dysfunction Junction by April Erwin)




Once upon a time and not long ago, there lived a beautiful (albeit large) young
woman with long flowing locks the color of black cherries. Cherry-locks, as her
friends called her, was friendly and intelligent with a winning smile and a
charming sense of humor. She had many friends, both guys and girls. But what she
did not have was a boyfriend.
One morning Cherry-locks awoke with a yawn and smacked her alarm clock.
As she rolled over to gain another nine minutes of sleep she noticed something
wasn’t quite right. She sat up and looked out her bedroom window. To her
surprise, it was not her quiet neighborhood street she saw, but a quaint little store.
She threw her covers back and stumbled to the window. All her neighbors’ homes
were gone and in their place, a misty haze rolled along the dewy grass. The store
looked like a tiny candy shop.
“Oh my goodness!” exclaimed Cherry-locks. “What in the world is this?” She
quickly donned her clothes and went down for a look. Upon exiting her small
house, Cherry-locks met a sweet little woman in a pink pants suit with poufy
blonde hair. She could have been about seventy, but her flawless make-up made it
hard to tell.
“There you are, honey.” The woman linked arms with Cherry-locks and pulled
her out onto the sidewalk. “I was beginning to think you’d never get up.”
Confused and still a bit sleepy-eyed, Cherry-locks looked at her quizzically.
“Who the heck are you?”
“Why, honey, don’t you recognize a Fairy-Matchmaker when you see one?”
The older woman said with surprise. “I heard you wish for the man of your dreams
on the turkey bone at Thanksgiving. So here I am to help you find him.”
“Thanksgiving?” Cherry-locks’ eyebrows shot to the edge of her cherry
colored hairline. “That was eight months ago. In fact, it was eight months and six
years ago. I’ve wished for the same thing every year.”
“Well, honey, you’ve got to give us time. There’s not many of us Fairy-
Matchmakers left and we have a lot of wishes to fulfill.” She propelled Cherrylocks
toward the store.
“It used to be we only had to answer the flower wishes. But now, with the job
market the way it is and downsizing and all, we’ve also been given the star wishes,
fountain wishes, turkey-bone wishes…” She shook her head dismally. “The list
goes on and on, so we’ve gotten a little behind in the wish fulfillment arena, but
today your name came up, so here I am.”
The Fairy Matchmaker paused in front of the little shop and turned to face
Cherry-locks. “Now I don’t have much time, so I’ll explain quickly what’s on the
agenda. The store in front of you is the Wish Fulfillment Center for Lonely Hearts.
Inside you can choose between three selected bachelors. I’ve personally screened
them to fit your general tastes. The one who’s just right is yours to keep. So, if
you’ll just come along with me, I’ll introduce you.” With that said, she once more
propelled Cherry-locks toward the front door.

continued in Dysfunction Junction by April Erwin,available at Amazon.com , B&N.com , Smashwords and all other fine e-book sellers. Click the Buy My Book tab for more direct links.


Tomorrow we’ll back with another friend of ours from Dysfunction Junction along with a lot of fun new Princess-y things to do this week.

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.  

CFBA: Lip Reading by Harry Kraus

Song Stuck on the Brain: Kiss the Girl from The Little Mermaid.
 There were two really great re-takes of this song. I love the updated Colbie Caillat version, but Nick Pitera is a super talented guy with a phenomenal range! Hope you enjoy.   

If you're wondering what has this one stuck, I'll give you a hint. I've got a BIG surprise planned for everyone starting next week. Let's just say it's going to be ROYALLY worth it to stop by everyday. You don't want to miss it. :)
 
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing:  Lip Reading David C. Cook (March 1, 2014)by  Harry Kraus

MY TAKE:

WOW! Doctor Kraus has a bestseller on his hands. I love medical based stories and this met that requirement and then some - but without ever becoming dry or boring. In fact, the suspense, drama, romance and emotion that is woven in makes it  one of the best I've read in a long time.

On a  more humorous note, I was also impressed with his knowledge of lipstick. He obviously did his research! :) I may have to check out a few of those colors myself. But don't think that they aren't a crucial element in the story, they actually are and I love how he used it define a character and show their growth as well.

This is a must read. Go get it now. Stat!


ABOUT THE BOOK:

She Could Save Millions, or Save Herself

She just needs a little longer. She’s really close. Dr. Rebecca Jackson, a medical researcher, stands on the verge of a breakthrough that will transform medicine. But she soon discovers the reason behind the miraculous progress in her research, and it leaves her with a nearly impossible choice . . . and little time to decide. More than her research is at stake. And more threatens it than this latest revelation. Something she’s tried hard to cover up. There is a high cost to some things in medicine and it’s not always the patient who pays. Can Rebecca find the faith and wisdom she needs to make the right call? The clock is ticking and the pressure is on.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Lip Reading , go HERE .




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from Harry:

I started writing my first novel during my last year of surgery training at UK. I was a chief resident, and started writing Stainless Steal Hearts in a call room at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Lexington. It was a crazy time to write! I had a very demanding schedule, often spending days and nights in the hospital. I had two sons at that time, and I recognized the wisdom in my wife's urging: "Now doesn't seem the right time for this dream."

My experience as a writer is far from typical. Having received my formal training in biology and chemistry and medicine, my only preparation for a writing career was a love for reading. The longest thing I'd written before my first novel was a term paper in undergraduate school. My first novel was accepted by Crossway Books and published in 1994, and it wasn't until after I had FOUR published novels that I even opened a book of instruction about the craft of writing fiction. This is not what I recommend to others! Yes, I was successful, but I was bending the "rules" without knowing it. I had a natural talent for plotting, but I realize my initial success may have stunted my growth as a writer. I'd have made faster progress if I'd have gone to the fiction teachers sooner.

I have three sons: Joel, Evan, and Samuel. Look closely in all of my books and you'll see them there. My lovely wife, Kris, provides the basic composition for all those beautiful, athletic, dedicated women in my novels.

Princess Ever After by Rachel Hauck

Princess Ever After  by  Rachel Hauck



MY TAKE:

Princess Ever After is book 2 in the series and the sequel to Once Upon a Prince. It follows American born Regina Beswick as she learns she's the sole heir the throne of Hessenberg. Without her Hessenberg will lose their sovereignty, but can she really become a queen?

Not only is it a fun and romantic story, it has a unique mystery subplot that connects to her great grandmother - the long lost princess of legend. It's a fantastic follow up in the series and not to be missed. Can't wait for more from Rachel Hauck.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Regina Beswick never dreamed of faraway places. She’s happy with her life as a classic car mechanic and owner of a restoration shop.

But an unexpected visitor and the discovery of a fairytale, drawn by her great-grandma, causes Regina to wonder if she might be destined for something more.

Tanner Burkhardt, Minister of Culture for the Grand Duchy of Hessenberg, must convince the strong-willed Southerner, Miss Beswick, that she is his country’s long-lost princess. Failure could destroy his reputation and change his nation forever.

As Regina and Tanner face the challenges before them, neither are prepared for love to invade their hearts and change every thing they believe about themselves.

However, when a royal opponent nearly destroys Regina’s future, she must lean into God and trust He has sovereignly brought her to her true and final destiny.

 ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rachel Hauck is an award-winning, best selling author of critically acclaimed novels such as the RITA nominated The Wedding Dress and Love Starts with Elle, part of the Lowcountry series. She also penned the Songbird Novels with multi-platinum recording artist, Sara Evans. Booklist named their novel, Softly and Tenderly, one of 2011 Top Ten Inspirationals.

A graduate of Ohio State University with a degree in Journalism, Rachel worked in the corporate software world before planting her backside in an uncomfortable chair to write full-time in 2004.
She serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers and leads worship at their annual conference. She is a mentor and book therapist at My Book Therapy, and conference speaker.
Rachel writes from her two-story tower in an exceedingly more comfy chair. She is a huge Buckeyes football fan.

A March Bride by Rachel Hauck

A March Bride A Year of Weddings Novella by   Rachel Hauck



MY TAKE:

When I found that this book in the Year of Weddings Novella series actually  intertwined with another series in progress, I had to stop and read the other book first.

Although I'm sure you can read A March Bride as a stand alone novella, be aware that is takes place immediately after Rachel Hauck's novel Once Upon A Prince. It was a fantastic read and SO worth reading first to keep the story line in order.

Susanna has agreed to marry her Prince Charming, only now he's being crowned King Nathaniel II of Brighton Kingdom. She's feeling rather alone and isolated from her family so far across the sea and despite her love and commitment to Nathaniel, her mind is telling her to think twice.

King Nathaniel is extremely romantic and it's not hard to see how Susanna has fallen so hard for him. It's truly a modern day fairy tale with enough reality to make it feel like maybe, just maybe, one day it COULD be you marrying your Prince Charming.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Susanna has found her true prince, and their happily ever after is just around the corner. But when Nate asks her to give up something precious to her, Susanna can't help but wonder if it's a sign that their love is not meant to be.

Susanna has found her true prince, and their happily ever after is just around the corner.
But when Nate asks her to give up something precious to her, Susanna can't help but wonder if it's a sign that their love is not meant to be.

Susanna Truitt (Once Upon A Prince) is three weeks from royalty. She'll soon marry King Nathaniel II of Brighton Kingdom. But when the government insists she renounce her American citizenship before the wedding, coupled with the lack of involvement by family and friends, Susanna's heart begins to doubt whether this marriage is God's plan for her.

Nathaniel would do anything for his bride-to-be. But he knows his position requires that she give up a lot to be with him. Her life will never be her own---right down to her very identity. When she travels home to St. Simon's Island, Georgia, right before the wedding, Nathaniel fears she won't return.
Gathering his courage, he devises a plan to win his bride all over again, and together they seek out a kingdom to treasure above all.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rachel Hauck is an award-winning, best selling author of critically acclaimed novels such as the RITA nominated The Wedding Dress and Love Starts with Elle, part of the Lowcountry series. She also penned the Songbird Novels with multi-platinum recording artist, Sara Evans. Booklist named their novel, Softly and Tenderly, one of 2011 Top Ten Inspirationals.

A graduate of Ohio State University with a degree in Journalism, Rachel worked in the corporate software world before planting her backside in an uncomfortable chair to write full-time in 2004.

She serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers and leads worship at their annual conference. She is a mentor and book therapist at My Book Therapy, and conference speaker.

Rachel writes from her two-story tower in an exceedingly more comfy chair. She is a huge Buckeyes football fan.

Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck

Once Upon a Prince  by  Rachel Hauck


MY TAKE:

Susanna Truitt is a VERY patient woman. She's waited 12 years for her fiance to marry her, and now he's called it off. What she finds hardest might not be that she lost him, but that all her plans have gone awry and she's wasted so many years.

Nathaniel is going to make her see things with new eyes. She doesn't recognize him at first and that's for the best in his eyes. He knows he has other duties and he can't ask for more than what they have now. But true love will find a way always.

I loved Nathaniel and Susanna's story. It has quickly become a new favorite and I know it's one I will re-read again and again. Rachel Hauck did a fantastic job all around and I can't recommend it enough.


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Susanna Truitt never dreamed of a great romance or being treated like a princess—just to marry the man she has loved for twelve years. But life isn’t going according to plan. When her high-school-sweetheart-turned-Marine-officer breaks up instead of proposing, Susanna scrambles to rebuild her life.

The last thing Prince Nathaniel expects to find on his American holiday to St. Simon’s Island is the queen of his heart. A prince has duties, and his family’s tense political situation has chosen his bride for him. When Prince Nathaniel comes to Susanna’s aid under the fabled Lover’s Oak, he is blindsided by love.

Their lives are worlds apart. He’s a royal prince. She’s a ordinary girl. But everything changes when Susanna receives an invitation to Nathaniel’s coronation.

It’s the ultimate choice. His kingdom or her heart? God’s will or their own?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rachel Hauck is an award-winning, best selling author of critically acclaimed novels such as the RITA nominated The Wedding Dress and Love Starts with Elle, part of the Lowcountry series. She also penned the Songbird Novels with multi-platinum recording artist, Sara Evans. Booklist named their novel, Softly and Tenderly, one of 2011 Top Ten Inspirationals.

A graduate of Ohio State University with a degree in Journalism, Rachel worked in the corporate software world before planting her backside in an uncomfortable chair to write full-time in 2004.

She serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers and leads worship at their annual conference. She is a mentor and book therapist at My Book Therapy, and conference speaker.

Rachel writes from her two-story tower in an exceedingly more comfy chair. She is a huge Buckeyes football fan.

A February Bride by Betsy St. Amant

A February Bride A Year of Weddings Novella by  Betsy St. Amant


MY TAKE:

The opening scene of this runaway bride is fantastic. I felt every moment with her as she struggles with her decision to stay or run.

Betsy St. Amant did a fantastic job of breathing life into two things that could easily be cheesy or ho-hum: Runaway Brides and Valentine's Day. The fact that the story remains fresh, enticing and engaging proves it's well worth the read. The spiritual type and shadow that winds in so seamlessly is just one more star on the review. Great job.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

History repeats itself when this bride runs out of the church on her wedding day - in the same dress that had been passed down for generations and worn by her mom, grandma, and great-grandmother who also ran out of their weddings.

In A February Bride by Betsy St. Amant, history repeats itself when this bride runs out of the church on her wedding day---in the same dress that had been passed down for generations and worn by her mom, grandma and great-grandmother who also ran out of their weddings. The heroine struggles to break destructive cycles of the past. Can this bride shuck expectation and discover who SHE is as a bride and in the Bride of Christ? And if she finally walks down the aisle, what dress will she be wearing? Readers will enjoy this novel of redemption centered on a winter wedding.






ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Betsy St. Amant is one Good Girl who enjoys writing about Bad Boys in her YA fiction novels. She lives in Louisiana with her adorable kindergartener, is often found consuming massive amounts of chocolate, and is an avid reader who is constantly wondering where Mr. Darcy went. A freelance journalist and fiction author, Betsy is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and is multi-published in Contemporary Romance. Her ninth Love Inspired novel will release January 2014, while her first YA novel, ADDISON BLAKELY, CONFESSIONS OF A PK, released 2012 through Barbour Books. She recently contracted a 2-book deal with Zondervan. When she’s not reading, writing, or singing along to the Tangled soundtrack with her daughter, Betsy enjoys inspirational speaking and teaching on the craft of writing.

A January Bride by Deborah Raney

A January Bride A Year of Weddings Novella by  Deborah Raney


MY TAKE:

A story about weddings, mistaken identities and old fashioned correspondence? I'm in! I've always enjoyed Deborah Raney's writing and A January Bride didn't disappoint.

Maddie is stressed and looking for advice. Why not ask the kindly inn keeper that stays downstairs? She's never met him in person, surely he has lots of wisdom... Arthur finds himself in a similar position. Maddie in his mind is some how an elder woman with wise words to share. Well, they got the wise words to share part right!

I loved reading the letters between them and watching their relationship develop in such a unique way. A January Bride was fun, touching and well written.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Who can work in a house that's overrun by contractors and carpenters? Not Madeleine Houser, a successful novelist who gladly accepts a temporary office in a charming bed and breakfast owned by an innkeeper she's never met.

Who can work in a house that's overrun by contractors and carpenters? Not Madeleine Houser, a successful novelist who gladly accepts the help of her octogenarian friend, Ginny, to arrange for a temporary office in the charming bed and breakfast owned by Ginny's friend, Arthur. Maddie's never met the innkeeper----but a friendship grows between them as Maddie and Arthur leave messages for each other each day. To Maddie's alternate delight and chagrin, she seems to be falling for the inn's owner----a man who's likely many years her senior----and who she's never even met.






ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

DEBORAH RANEY is bestselling novelist whose books have garnered multiple industry awards including the RITA Award, HOLT Medallion, National Readers' Choice Award, Carol Award, Silver Angel from Excellence in Media, and have twice been Christy Award finalists. Her first novel, A Vow to Cherish, shed light on the ravages of Alzheimer's disease. The novel inspired the highly acclaimed World Wide Pictures film of the same title and continues to be a tool for Alzheimer's families and caregivers. Deborah is on faculty for several national writers' conferences and serves on the advisory board of the 2500-member American Christian Fiction Writers organization. She has written more than 20 novels, and her recent Hanover Falls Novels series is published by Howard/Simon & Schuster. Deb and her husband, Ken Raney, enjoy small-town life in Kansas.

A December Bride by Denise Hunter

A December Bride A Year of Weddings Novella by  Denise Hunter    MY TAKE:   I adore wedding stories. When I  saw A Year of Weddings Novellas was coming I nearly squealed. NO. I'm not exagerating.

The series begins with A December Bride , a Christmas wedding of course and one worth reading about.

Layla and Seth really get themselves into a tangled web of lies, one that gets messier by the moment. Truth always sets you free, and when Layla and Seth finally come clean love has a way of healing old wounds and new ones.

This was a great story. The characters and plot felt complete even though it is shorter than the average novel. ABOUT THE BOOK: 
What started as a whim turned into an accidental---and very public---engagement. Can Layla and Seth keep up the facade in Chapel Springs this holiday season---for the sake of her career... and his heart? Under normal circumstances, Seth Murphy, the best friend of Layla O?Reilly's ex-fiance would be the last person she'd marry. But the news of their upcoming (and phony) nuptials convinces a big client that Layla may be high-society enough to work for his agency, a coup that would put her fledgling home-staging business on the map.

Seth has secretly loved Layla for years, even when she was dating his best friend. Maybe she'll never forgive him for the way he hurt her back then, but he has to try. And Layla is willing to keep up their engagement farce until she's landed her client.

For Layla, it's the chance to save her career. But for Seth, it's his last chance to win her heart.
 ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Denise lives in Indiana with her husband Kevin and their three sons. In 1996, Denise began her first book, a Christian romance novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books often contain a strong romantic element, and her husband Kevin says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!

CFBA: Maybelle In Stitches by Joyce Magnin

Song Stuck on the Brain: Smile by Chris Rice
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing: Maybelle In StitchesAbingdon Press (March 18, 2014)by Joyce Magnin


MY TAKE:

I may not be as bad at sewing as Maybelle - but I'm not much better either! What a great hook for a story about quilting. A woman who can't quilt. :)

Maybelle is living in an era when women are meant to be homemakers, mothers and caregivers. None of which she excels at. The world is changing drastically, though. With WWII in full swing and all the healthy young men overseas, the women are stepping up to do jobs no one ever thought them capable of. Building war ships being one of them. Maybelle might not excel in domestic skills but she can weld a seam with the best of them. Something she's happy to do while waiting for her husband Holden to return.

Maybelle's struggles with hope and faith are universal. I may not have a loved one away at war, but I can understand her frustration and her human weakness to ask God, "Why? Why me?" We all come to that point at sometime in out lives. Experiencing her journey as well as the other war women in the same situation is touching.

I've always been rather taken with this time period and the author did a great job with her research. From the big details of the Sun Shipbuilding company in PA to the little details like the most popular color of nail polish being "Off Duty Red". The book is full of interesting little tidbits. Every one contributing to the authentic feel of the book. Even the vernacular used for the place and era was fitting. There were moments I had visions of Lucy and Ethel chatting in my mind.

I really enjoyed the story and found time zipped by while reading it. I had it done in no time because I didn't want to step out of their world.

Enjoy!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Maybelle can’t sew. But when she finds an unfinished quilt in the attic of her mother’s house, she gets the crazy idea to complete it. At first, it’s just a way to fill the lonely nights while her husband, staff sergeant Holden Kanzinzki, is away fighting in World War II.

Yet when Maybelle discovers that the quilt is made from scraps of material that can be traced back through her family heritage, the project is suddenly much more important. Then word comes that Holden is missing in action, and with little else to do, Maybelle clings to the quilt as much as to the hope that her husband is still alive. As neighborhood friends gather around Maybelle to help her through the unknown days and nights ahead, it is the quilt that becomes a symbol of her unflagging belief that Holden will return—to her, to their home, and to their quilt-covered bed.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Maybelle In Stitches , go HERE .


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from the Author:

I am the author of seven novels. Five adult novels and two middle grade readers. I never wanted to do anything else but write and every day I wake up astonished that I get to do what I always dreamed about. My days are filled with words and images along with the usual family stuff. I have three children, Rebekah who is married to Joshua. They have three of the most adorable boys on the planet, Lemuel, Cedar and Soren. My daughter Emily Kate is a lovely young woman anthropologist and my son Adam is fourteen and a student--he's a genius who loves frogs and lizards and fish and plants. He amazes me.

I have never eaten a scallop. I love cream soda. Drink way too much coffee. I do not like elevators but I do enjoy needle arts and of course books. I prefer jazz over country (no offense), milk chocolate over dark, but not roller coasters although my life has often resembled a roller coaster ride.

One of my life's desires is to meet Amy Grant so I can tell her she saved my life.