Cynthia Marcano's Blog, page 7

Review: Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden

Beyond All Dreams
Author - Elizabeth Camden
Rating - 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Would I Recommend: Yes!Back Cover...Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across a baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. She is thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, but her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.

Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen until his promising career became shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglement with a member of Congress.

From the gilded halls of the Capitol, where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for themselves?

What I Loved...Luke, Luke and Luke! Yes, the hero Luke Callahan is my kind of main character. I always find that I end up really liking a book if I really love the main male character. I love a book a when I love both leads. In this case however Luke really won me over and I just loved his charm, confidence, conviction and no nonsense attitude. He is main reasson to read this book.

I love history so I got really excited to see that the book took place in Washington DC in the Library of Congress! It was like exploring WDC history.What I Liked...Anna O'Brien, the heroine, was spunky and smart. I really liked her and admire her character. I really liked that she wasn't painted as some sophisticated, gorgeous woman. She could be a real librarian in a real tow,  with real issues, winning the heart of an awesome man.

Other...Whenever I read a book that entail actual places and people, I like to see photos and read some actual facts at the end of the books about the settings and period. It makes the story so much more richer to me. President MckInley is mentioned as is Theodore Roosevelt and the Capitol Building, bustling streetcars and Library of Congress building are the main settings of the book. However this advanced copy that I received does not include photos or any historical notes. Fooey.

Author Elizabeth Camden, is quickly becoming a fave author of mine with her ability to combine American history with romance in a beautiful and melodic way. She easily peeks my interest to learn more about the settings she draws us in to as readers while still captivating me with the romance in the book. I wish the book could have been longer.


Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Netgalley/Bethany House. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for for my review.

Wishing Season by Denise Hunter

Wishing Season
Author - Denise Hunter
Rating - 4 out of 5 Stars
Would I Recommend: YesBack Cover...She daydreams of whipping up sauces and souffles in her own restaurant. His heart is set on helping foster children. Both dreams are at stake. So are their hearts.With grand plans to open her own bed & breakfast in Chapel Springs, PJ McKinley can't afford the most crucial part: the brick and mortar. But when the owner of a local historic home announces a contest and promises her property to the worthiest candidate, PJ makes a fervent wish and tosses her name into the hat.

Cole Evans is cool, confident, and successful, but he'll never forget his roots. He's thankful for how far he's come and knows his life could have turned out drastically different. If he can win the stately old mansion, he'll turn it into a home for children aging out of the foster system.

When the eccentric house owner narrows the entries down to only two applicants, she extends the contest, giving PJ and Cole one year to prove which one of them can make the best use of her beloved home. As the pair competes in close proximity, something deeper than rivalry sparks between PJ and Cole. And in this battle, they're likely to lose their hearts.
What I Loved...This was one of those books where the characters are written very well that I feel like they are real people and I know them. Denise did a great job making them real, human, flawed, believable and likable. I felt, and a few days later still feel a vested interest in these characters.

What I Liked...The storyline is quite unique and I liked that I had no idea how their dilemma was going to be resolved.  I got caught up in who would win the house as much as PJ and Cole had.

Other...The cover to this book is supercute, BUT not how I pictured either character. Based off of the cover alone and the time of release, I expected more of a Christmas/Winter themed book, but I was wrong. It actually spans a few seasons.

I haven't read the other books in the series and sometimes felt a lost when reading parts where the characters from previous books where involved in conversation or being spoken of. It became a little overwhelming trying to remember who was who and married to who and what who did. Now  I am confusing myself. In any case, I would recommend reading the other books BEFORE reading this one as I did.

There were a few things I didn't like. First, I felt like the story involving PJs ex boyfriend was lacking. He kind of entered the book late and it felt thrown in and then I felt like as a reader I was left hanging. I didn't like how that storyline wrapped up. Actually it just sort of was forgotten about and not wrapped but.

However, since I didn't read the other books, I am not sure if there is more to that story in previous books or will wrap up completely in her next book.

I don't particularly like when an author refers to a character resembling a specific athlete, actor, person, etc... In the Wishing Season, it is written that Cole, the hero, looks like Tom Brady, the Patriots quarterback. In fact its mentioned several times. I personally do not happen to believe that Mr. Brady is good looking and I had to fight really hard as a reader to erase that image from my head. I eventually did (even though she kept trying to remind me) and I managed to envision an actual handsome Cole in my head that I could fall in love with as a reader. Part of what makes me loves books is falling in love with the hero. If you are fond of Tom Brady's face, than you may very well love this book. Please do not be offended by my personal opinion.

Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for for my review.

Review: A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings

A Most Inconvenient Marriage
Author - Regina Jennings
Rating - 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Would I Recommend: YesBack Cover...Having fled a difficult home life, Civil War nurse Abigail Stuart feels like her only friend in the world is sweet but gravely wounded patient Jeremiah Calhoun. Fearing he won't survive, the Confederate soldier's last wish is that Abigail look after his sickly sister at home. Marry him, return to his horse farm, and it'll be hers.

Left with few choices, Abigail takes him up on his offer and moves to Missouri after his death, but just as the family learns to accept her, the real Jeremiah Calhoun appears--puzzled to find a confounding woman posing as his wife. Jeremiah is determined to have his life back to how it was before the war, but his own wounds limit what he can do on his own. Still not fully convinced Abigail isn't duping him, he's left with no choice but to let the woman stay and help--not admitting to himself she may provide the healing his entire family needs.

What I Loved...I loved both main characters Abigail and Jeremiah. The chemistry between the two is powerful and I loved every minute of the two characters together. Lots of banter and sparks.

From the very beginning of this book, the story unfolded nicely and left me desiring to finish it quickly. I could vividly picture the scenes and people in my head. Regina Jennings did a wonderful job transporting me directly into the mist of the at the Calhoun farm. I was sad when the book ended.


What I Liked...Each character unique and charming in their own way. Each character took on he responsibility to draw a different emotion from the reader and I believe it was executed nicely. The funny and mischievous kids were a riot, the grumpy sister made you love and hate her, the doting mother was loving, etc... and together made a collection of lovable characters for a lovable story.  All of the characters felt so real to me and for a short while I felt like part of their era.


Other...I love the cover of the book. However I admit that I first I found it didn't match the story. The beginning of the book was a little heavy and the cover so playful. However it didn't take long to catch up to the cover and was a perfect match throughout the rest of the book.



Character Images...Jeremiah Calhoun
Laurel
Yes, this is Victoria
Justice, BUT I did
not picture her
exactly, She was
the closest to how
I imagined
Dr. Hopkins
I also pictured him
tall and slender



Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Netgalley. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for for my review.

Review: Deceived by Irene Hannon

Deceived
Author - Irene Hannon
Rating - 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Would I Recommend: MaybeBack Cover...For three years, Kate Marshall has been grieving the loss of her husband and their four-year-old son in a boating accident. But when she spots a familiar-looking child on an escalator in the mall, she is convinced it is the son she thought was dead. With police skeptical of her story, she turns to private investigator Connor Sullivan. The former Secret Service agent is dubious but agrees to investigate. Digging into the case he discovers that the incident may have been no accident at all. But if Kate's son is alive, someone is intent on keeping him hidden--and may be willing to go to lethal lengths to protect a sinister secret.

What I Loved...Didn't really "Love" anything, but I liked a bunch of stuff. Skip to that area.

What I Liked...The book moved along nicely and flowed smoothly. It was suspenseful yet also contained a little romance for the romantics like me. The plot was something you would definitely find on Lifetime Channel; a little action, a little suspense and then a little romance thrown in for good measure.

Other...The first few chapters of this book didn't really reel me in; not even the one that was supposed to hook me. I was a little curious, but not much. I am not usually a suspense novel reader, but I think Irene Hannon did a good job incorporating a lot of what I usually do read (romance, swoon bits and love) into a suspense and action packed book.

With everything going on, I found myself most intrigued by the relationship with Todd and his father. It was both awww and ohhhhh at the same time. I kept wondering how Irene was going to play that storyline out. I was neither thrilled nor bummed in the end.

Wrap-Up...Deceived is a mix of a bunch of things, but suspense/drama is the main theme. I would recommend to some of my friends. If you are into Suspenseful Christian books or like a little romance, but not a main stream romance novel, than this is a good read. You may also like this book if you are really into Lifetime movies.


Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Netgalley. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for for my review.

Review: Surprised By Love by Julie Lessman

Surprised By Love
Author - Julie Lessman
Time It Took for to Read - 1 Day
Rating - 5 out of 5 Stars....more if I could
Would I Recommend: Yes. Yes. And then Yes!Shy and unattractive as a child, Megan McClare has always been teased by her classmates. But when she returns home from her senior year in Paris, the wallflower has suddenly blossomed into a beauty. With ambitions to become a lawyer or doctor, Megan accepts an internship at the district attorney's office only to discover that she will be working with Devin Caldwell, a boy who mercilessly mocked her at school--and with whom she was hopelessly enamored. She turns to her dear friend Bram Hughes for support and advice. But Bram's vision is clouded by his sudden unwelcome attraction to a girl he had always thought of as a kid sister. He advises forgiveness, but can he forgive himself for pushing the woman he loves into the arms of another man?

What I Loved...Pages 1- 416. Yes that would be the entire book. I am big fan of Julie Lessman and the Heart of San Francisco series and Surprised By Love did not disappoint. I had those rare put the book down and scream into a pillow moments, tearing up moments, fanning myself with my hand steamy romantic moments, laughing out loud moments and being reminded why I am a Christian moments. This book has it all and it was one of my favorites of the year.

Mrs. Lessman has the talent to weave muliple stories in one book and make them ALL gut wrenching and powerful stories, not just fillers between the main storyline. I was captivated by the underlying stories as much as the main story of Megan and Bram.

If you, like me, love to see when a couple can overcome what seems to be like insurmountable odds and in the end it is God who is glorified, this book is for you!!!

I can't say it enough.... I loved, loved, loved this book.

What I Liked...See the What I Loved Section instead!

Other...The cover is gorgeous as always! Love it.

While I do love this book, I must recommend that you first read the other books in the series. It will add so much more to the book and one of the storylines do begin in the first book of the series. While you can certainly read this alone and thoroughly enjoy it, reading the entire series is highly recommended. It takes the enjoyment of Surprised by Love to another level.

If I have been vague in my review, forgive me. I don't want to spill a thing nin hopes that you read this book and get to enjoy it thoroughly without knowing bits and pieces of what happens...hence they are called spoilers. I like you too much for that. You can thank me later!

Ok, I'm off waiting for Julie's next book!

Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Revell Book Publishers. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for for my review.

Review: At Bluebonnet Lake by Amanda Cabot

At Bluebonnet Lake
Author - Amanda Cabot
Time It Took for to Read - 1 Week +
Rating - 2 out of 5 Stars.
Would I Recommend: Unfortunately NotMarketing maven Kate Sherwood���s world is fast-paced, challenging, and always changing. The last thing she wants to do is slow down to a crawl at Rainbow���s End, a dilapidated resort in the Texas Hill Country. But she cannot deny her ailing grandmother���s request to visit the place where she and her deceased husband spent one glorious week (albeit fifty years ago). There Kate meets Greg Vange, the resort���s handyman. But there���s more to Greg than meets the eye���billions more, in fact, as he recently sold his successful software company and is at the resort in search of what���s next for his life.

Kate isn���t looking for romance, but she can���t deny the sparks of attraction that fly every time she and Greg are together. She even starts to see potential in the rundown resort. Could there be a future there? Or will Kate���s long-sought promotion take her back to the big city?

What I Loved...Well...lets just move on.

What I Liked...The idea of Bluebonnet Lake, A Christian "resort". I can not recall ever having a read a book with a Christian Resort as the setting. I ended up thinking more about the resort even while I wasn't reading the book.

Other...Where do I begin? I guess the cover is a good a place as any. It isn't my favorite cover in the world.

This is the second Amanda Cabot book under my belt (read my Paper Roses Review)  and quite frankly I am disappointed. I much prefer her historical fiction writing as opposed to her modern work.

I found the book so... already done by so many others. I know you are probably thinking that most romance books are recycled love stories, but this one seemed moreso than most. A mash of the most cliche romance books and movies. Lately everytime I turn around a book or movie has a marketing director as the heroine and I already know how that eventually plays out in the scheme of the book. So naturally this bored me, not intrigued me.

The hero Greg is as cliche as it gets...a rich, handosme guy hiding out looking for the meaning in it all. He didn't melt my butter.

And the one who got it all rolling...the grandmother, who you may have already guessed...raised the heroine Kate. Kate will do anything for her etc,....

There were no sparks between Kate and Greg and the book was a chore to get through.



Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Revell Book Publishers. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for for my review.

Review: A Matter of Heart by Tracie Peterson

A Matter of Heart
Author - Tracie Peterson
Time It Took for to Read - 1 1/2 weeks
Rating - 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Would I Recommend: MaybeTexas born and raised Jessica Atherton is a wealthy young woman whose heart was broken when the man she intended to marry wedded another. But her world is upended when two men come into her life and both manage to stir her heart. Harrison Gable is a rich young lawyer who intends to travel the world and live a life of opulence. His ambitions match Jessica's dreams, but her heart has begun to change.

Austin Todd, former Secret Service agent, enjoys working now as a Texas Ranger cattle inspector. But learning of forged gold certificates and missing printing plates, he's drawn back into the world of intrigue and agrees to help solve the case. Austin is well-thought-of and admired in the community. Jessica is drawn to his kind nature and the unspoken pain she sees in his eyes. Will Jessica choose financial security or follow her heart?

What I Loved...I am a sucker for romance so the bits and pieces between Jessica and my favorite of the two beaus always drew me in. He was my favorite thing about this book.  A clue: she ends up with this beau!

What I Liked...I always like reading about Texas Rangers and ranchers so this was a real treat and the added bonus of Secret Service agents in Historical Fiction that doesn't directly involve politcians was fun. I found myself drawn to Jessica and her new life and found her a believable character. I enjoyed reading about her.

Other...The book started out slow for me, although that wasn't the reason it took me so long to read it. But on the other hand, had the book really drew me in I probably wouldn't have slept much in order to finish it. The end of the book did however draw me in and I finished the second half of the book in about 2 days.

I had a hard time following all of the characters at first, which was probably why it took a while for this book to get into my system, so to speak. It is part of a series and I would highly recommend reading those before reading this one and I can imagine it would be a better read that way. A good portion of the book involves the characters from the other books in the series as well as their storyline.

At times I felt like Jessica's story was more of a fill in rather the main story because at times the book seemed to be continuing on from the previous books in the series.

All in all, I think had I read the entire series, I would have greatly enjoyed the book.

By the way, I really like the covered.


My Character Images...
Harrison Gable Austin Todd
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Bethany House. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for for my review.

Review: Buttermilk Sky by Jan Watson

Buttermilk Sky
Author - Jan Watson
Time It Took for to Read - 3 Days
Rating - 3.75 out of 5 Stars
Would I Recommend: Probably NotWeary of the expectations imposed on her by her strict upbringing, eighteen-year-old Mazy Pelfrey prepares to leave her home in the Kentucky mountains for the genteel city of Lexington, where she'll attend secretarial school. She knows her life is about to change--and only for the better. Everything will be blue skies from now on.But business school is harder than she thought it would be and the big city not as friendly, until she meets a charming young man from a wealthy family, Loyal Chambers. When Loyal sets his sights on her, Mazy begins to see that everything she'd ever wished to have is right before her eyes. The only hindrance to her budding romance is a former beau, Chanis Clay, the young sheriff she thought she'd left firmly behind.Danger rumbles like thunder on a high mountain ridge when Mazy's cosseted past collides with her clouded future and forces her to come to terms with what she really wants.

What I Loved...I hardly ever read Historical Fiction that revolves around young adults actually being young adults. Lots of historical fiction novels may have young adult characters, but they are usually thrust into mature situations (death of parents, raising siblings, moving out west, marrying and raising families), so it was nice to read a historical fiction novel that was also like reading a YA novel. A very nice blend. It was different for me.

What I Liked...Jan Watson did a good job of showcasing real yound adult/teenage problems in a way that wasn't childish or immature. It made the book more realistic to me as a reader, therefore making the characters more realistic to me as well.

Other...I love the book cover! I took the book with me to my daughter's play rehearsal and sat quietly in the back of the sanctuary and read. A few people who passed notoced the cover an asked what I was reading. The cover peeked interest.

I can't quite put my finger on why I wasn't in love with this book. The plot fell flat for me. While I am used to reading from different POVs throughout the book, I found there was no connection between them in Buttermilk Sky. The opening storyline was interesting, but didn't have much to do with the main character.

I guess the story didn't flow and the storylines didn't mesh well.
My Character Images...

Chanis Clay
(with no spikes in his hair)

Loyal Chambers

Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Tyndale. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for for my review.

Meet Bianca Marshal - The Heroine from The Covered Deep by Brandy Vallance

Meet Bianca Marshal
While reading The Covered Deep, I really liked the heroine Bianca Marshal. I could totally picture he and when I had the opportunity to interview her, I jumped at the chance. 
CFA: Hi Bianca. I am so excited that you could join me here at Christian Fiction Addict. What do you think of our modern technology?

Bianca: My goodness! I never would have imagined such things were possible! I thought hot water on the second floor was advanced. *Bianca continues to glance around in awe*

CFA: Like many of us, you are a romantic at heart and a lover of books. What is your absolute favorite book?

Bianca: Great Jehoshaphat! Can you choose just one? If so, that would be quite a feat, for I know you are a voracious reader as well. Perhaps we should discuss genre. Then I might be able to answer adequately. I know! *secret smile* My favorite book is Paul���s book on the Italian Renaissance. When he gave it to me, I was so overcome . . . *blushes* You know why. 

CFA: Bianca, please remind me to introduce you to Brandy Vallance. She is a modern author and I am sure you would just love her work. ;)

CFA: Now having traveled to our present day (the future for you), do you prefer the future, your present or would you go back in time if you could?

Bianca: Although your time is wonderful, there���s quite a lot of noise. I do believe time travel is most appealing. Egypt in the time of Moses, perhaps. Or maybe the Palace of Versailles in the time of the Sun King . . . Wouldn���t it be something to meet Mozart? Or Shakespeare?

CFA: I agree. Biblical times have always fascinated me. I would love to go back and meet Jesus in the flesh. Speaking of which...

CFA: Do you plan to revisit The Holy Land?

Bianca: What an interesting question. A certain someone and I have talked about it. *dramatic pause* Perhaps Paris is a better idea. 

CFA: Oui Oui, La la. The home of the Louvre.

CFA: Have you been to any museums lately? Which is your favorite and why?

Bianca: Being as how I live in London now, I was able to visit the South Kensington Museum just last week. I wandered there for hours and hours. To be so close to history . . . There���s just something about standing inches away from things held by emperors, kings, and queens. Of course, the British Museum will always hold a special place in my heart. And I do admit that it���s my absolute favorite museum in the world. But that might have something to do with a certain someone who works there. 

CFA: International gal. Sounds like an adventure.

CFA: I think you a brave woman Bianca. What is one of the scariest things you have had to endure, other than what happens in the book? I don���t want to spoil it for those who have not had the opportunity read it yet. 

Bianca: One of the most frightening things I���ve ever had to endure was seeing my country torn apart in the War of Rebellion. I was just a girl then, but some things you never forget. 

CFA: That must have been scary. We are so grateful for our military. War still plagues us, but we are fortunate to not have to endure it on American soil as you and your family have. 

CFA: How are your parents getting along these days?

Bianca: Well, there���s talk of them moving to England, actually. If Daddy can convince Mama. 

CFA: She'll be living in London in no time. Your dad has a way with words. I am sure that is one of the reasons you love him so. Speaking of love...

CFA: Any love advice for those looking for a handsome, humorous, Christ-believing, Bible quoting foreigner that���s a great kisser and will adore her?

Bianca: Sigh... Pray like there���s no tomorrow. As evidenced by my journey, those kind of men aren���t easily found. Don���t settle although everyone will try to convince you to do otherwise. You���ll know him when you see him���it might be something about his voice, or maybe the way you interpret a thousand things in his eyes. Mostly, hold on to Psalms 37:4, ���Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.��� 

CFA: Wise words. Lastly, For all of the young women and maybe those who are not so young anymore, like me, what advice do you have about going after you want and achieving goals?

Bianca: When you have been redeemed by the One True Living God, there���s nothing you can���t conquer. God makes the impossible, possible. Everyone���s afraid, but they���ll rarely admit it. Sometimes fear is only the first doorway to our destiny. When I stepped on that ship in New York Harbor, you can bet your boots I was trembling. But I wanted God���s best for me, and I think that has to be fought for. 

CFA: Thank you so much Bianca. I am so happy to have met you.

Bianca: *Curtsies* It was my pleasure. Now, do you have any notion about how to get back to 1877? There���s someone I���m missing desperately.

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Brandy Vallance Interview & Giveaway

The Covered Deep Weekend continues!!! Read my interview below and be sure to come back tomorrow to meet Bianca Marshal, the heroine from The Covered Deep. Brandy VallanceMeet Brandy Vallance author of The Covered Deep! Over the past few weeks I have had the pleasure of getting to know her just a little bit better. She is a down to earth and gifted writer and I am so pleased that I was able to interview her and let you all in on how sweet she really is.

One of the best parts of being a review blogger is to discover new authors that quickly become a favorite and I had the opportunity a few months ago when I received an advanced review copy of The Covered Deep. I read it and loved it and sent my feedback quickly.I was so excited when Brandy agreed to do an interview for Christian Fiction Addict & a giveaway of her debut novel The Covered Deepthat releases Tuesday, October 14th. Here is my interview.


CFA: What inspired you to become a writer?

Brandy: Someone once said that if you read enough, eventually you���ll want to write a book of your own. I think my love of books just translated into wanting to write. 

CFA: Random Question! I have read that you are a tea addict. Do you eat scones and listen to classical music while sipping your black tea? If not, please tell us what you like to indulge in with your self-confessed tea addiction.

Brandy: Why, yes I do! Although I try to limit the scones to every now and again. You should see all the empty tea cups on my desk! Tea is basically the fodder for my imagination. I also like to eat Himalania Dark Chocolate Goji Berries while I write because they give me energy. Sometimes I eat walnuts, which is random. 

CFA: Is your pinky up while drinking said tea?

Brandy: Only on Thursdays. 

CFA: I think we covered tea thoroughly. Let us move along. Tell us about your home life.

Brandy: I live with my adventurous missionary husband, a debonair son who has adopted my love of all things British, my beautiful daughter who reminds me to never lose the wonder, a Great Dane whose teeth chatter during hailstorms, and a cat who weighs too much to be sensible. 

CFA: Random Question! I am going to go out on a limb and assume you like (maybe even love, like I do) Jane Austen���s books. Which is your favorite and why? 

Brandy: I do love Jane Austen! I���ll probably have to say Pride and Prejudice is my favorite. Although, I love Emma too! I kind of used to keep the A&E version of Pride and Prejudice on auto play. And, I was so inspired that I had to sew my own Regency dress. And, of course, I drank tea while wearing it. 

CFA: Congratulations as a debut author winning quite a few awards for The Covered Deep. I know you must be excited to debut the book. How has it been so far?

Brandy: It���s very surreal to finally see the thing you���ve dreamed about for so long. When the books were delivered to my house for my launch party, I was afraid to open the box. And then I was afraid to touch a book. When I held a copy of The Covered Deep in my hands, my entire body shook. Then, I was afraid to see the pages. That new book smell is something else when you wrote the words! Now, I have that first copy that I touched on my office desk and that���s where it will stay. 

Something that���s been extremely fun is people posting on my Facebook wall pictures of 
themselves holding the book. Today someone took a picture of themself holding the book on a plane! It���s so fun to wake up every day and see something new. People from my past and even complete strangers have been so supportive! 

CFA: Can you tell us a little about The Covered Deep, behind the scenes?

Brandy: A lot of research went into the book, including corresponding with the British Museum in London. In 2011 I was able to go to London and stand in the King���s Library in the British Museum where Paul and Bianca meet for the first time. That was an amazing moment. For subtle details, I read Victorian etiquette books, fashion books, nineteenth century traveling books, etc. 

As far as behind the scenes of the writing, you would have probably seen a lot of me talking to myself and acting things out to make sure I got the body language just right. Then you���d see me laugh at some things Bianca said. There���s one scene with Joshua Tabor that still makes me laugh like crazy. 

CFA: Who was your favorite character to write?

Brandy: Oh, my. That���s a hard question to answer. I love all of them. I think getting into Paul���s deep POV was the most intriguing. 

CFA: In my review, I added photos of how I pictured (more or less) the characters. Do you agree with my choices? It���s okay if you don���t...lol.

Brandy: It���s so much fun to see who you chose! Very close indeed! I chose Katie McGrath for Madeline and I went off an old photograph for Bianca. You can see the photograph on my Pinterest board. I never did find exact photos for the other characters. 

CFA: Really neat board. Katie McGrath is so much better than my choice!

CFA: In the book you describe, in much detail, The Holy Land. Have you ever been?

Brandy: Unfortunately not. It is a dream of mine to go someday. 

CFA: Random Question! I read that you traveled throughout some of Europe. Which country was your favorite?

Brandy: Why England, of course. Although Scotland is a close second. 

CFA: So I really really liked The Covered Deep, as you already know from my review. When can we expect your next book? I���m not a patient reader; especially when I like the author���s works!

Brandy: Awww! Thank you so much. You���re going to love my second book! It���s a Scottish romance with gypsies and an English Royal Horse Guard *swoon*. It���s not sold yet, but hopefully soon! 

CFA: Brandy, I thank you so much for taking the time to join me at Christian Fiction Addict. I wish you much success with The Covered Deep and beyond.

Brandy: It has been a pleasure. Thank you!



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