June McCrary Jacobs's Blog: ~ Author June McCrary Jacobs ~, page 92
January 3, 2019
~ BLITZ COWBOY IN SHEPHERD'S CROSSING ~
~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~BOOK BLITZ FOR
-- 'A COWBOY IN SHEPHERD'S
CROSSING' --
AUTHOR RUTH LOGAN HERNE~Post Includes: Book Spotlight,Author Bio, Unique Guest Postby the Author & Giveaway~
Welcome to the blog blitz & giveaway for A Cowboy in Shepherd's Crossing by Ruth Logan Herne, hosted by JustRead Tours.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: A Cowboy in Shepherd's Crossing
Series: Shepherd's Crossing #2
Author: Ruth Logan Herne
Publisher: Love Inspired
Release Date: January 1, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Cowboy bachelor Jace Middleton was ready to leave Shepherd’s Crossing for good – until he learns his family’s unspoken secrets.
Now Jace finds himself not only caring for his twin baby nieces, but working with beautiful, strong-willed designer Melonie Fitzgerald to renovate his grandmother’s run-down estate.
Love wasn’t part of the plan… but Jace soon finds himself wishing Melonie could become part of his unexpected family.
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | CBD
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Best-selling, multi-published, award-winning author Ruth Logan Herne is the author of nearly fifty novels and novellas through traditional publishers and her own independent works. She loves God, her family, country, coffee, chocolate and dogs, and wishes possums would leave the cat food on the side porch alone. And yet… they don’t. With over a million books in print, Ruthy is living her dream of touching hearts and souls by writing the kind of books she likes to read. She lives on a pumpkin farm in Western New York where they grow all kinds of cool things for fall from sumptuous squashes and veggies to gorgeous stacking pumpkins. Ruthy’s farm is quickly becoming the place to be every September and October!
CONNECT WITH RUTHY: website | Facebook | Twitter
***GUEST POST SHARED BY THE AUTHOR:
--What’s Going On Behind the Scenes in Ruth Logan Herne’s “Shepherd’s Crossing” series?
WHAT A GREAT TOPIC because no book is ever as it seems on the shelf when it’s in book infancy…
But I’m going to spare you the bare bones initial writing because there is so much more going on in a small town hit by economic meltdown.
First, you need some heroes and heroines finding some sigh-worthy cowboys isn’t all that difficult in a land studded with Western men sporting cowboy hats. But that’s the window dressing, isn’t it? That’s not the heart of the story, the heart is what makes the characters and the setting hold your interest from beginning to end.
Heath Caufield doesn’t want his friend Jace to leave town, but he mostly wants what’s best for his friend, and if there’s no construction work for Jace, Heath can’t (in good conscience) hold him there… even though he wants to.
Government policies shape so much of background in stories, but we can’t give them too much page time because this is a romance, after all... BUT the re-introduction of wolves and bighorn sheep to the Idaho mountains has changed shepherding (sheep not going into the hills to graze, which means undergrowth thickens and could spread forest fires more quickly like we’ve seen in other hands-off regions)and ranching, and our heroes have to change the way they do things and we all know how much men love to change their ways!
Does Corrie Satterly have eyes for Bob Cook AKA: “Cookie”, the Pine Ridge Ranch kitchen manager?????
Bringing fears to life— Like Melonie’s aversion to horses— has to balance with the hero or heroine’s strength and courage. No one wants to read about a complete grown up scaredy-pants, right?
I love FIXER UPPER with Chip and Joanna, so having Melonie dream of doing her own cable show someday was a perfect nod to the only house-fixer-real-estate show I watched… because I know it can be so that well! Total Author Intrusion on that one!
Ava and Annie are adorable… and I love it when kids steal the show or in this case “the scene”… And if you add Zeke Caufield to the mix, that heart-grabbing five-year-old is such a cool kid and it’s possible that he’s modeled after a certain little person I know personally… The Mighty Finn, perhaps?
Hot Idaho summers really changed the tune for this series because I HAD NO CLUE that it got that hot there… but it does and my thoughts of snow scenes MELTED when I began the series in May and went on through the summer with the sisters. Fortunately, Love Inspired contracted a Christmas novella set in Shepherd’s Crossing (It’s in “A Cowboy Christmas” with my buddy Linda Goodnight) so I get to give reclusive horse lover Ty Carrington his holiday romance and a chance to regain the life he lost years ago! #BONUS!!!!
And then they contracted a free online read for readers, so handsome cowboy lawyer Mack Grayson got his story, and you might just need some tissues. It’s available here, they’ve been doing a chapter a day, like the old-fashioned magazine serials! The Cowboy’s Christmas Surprise
The fun of a diverse cast is a natural for me. We have multiple biracial and mixed ethnic families on both sides. It makes me crazy when people make color a cultural divide because I have no such issue with my farm eggs. Some are brown, some are beige, some are pinky-beige, white, blue and green and tan… and they’re all eggs. I love the blending of cultures while respecting cultures. I can’t imagine God wanted anything less from us, but then He’s God and he’s so stinkin’ smart!!!
It was a real trick to show the town mending when I was actually having all the cowboys on ranches… and the town was a place no one much visited because the businesses had all closed down… but when the church closed, and the pastor left, that was the kick in the head folks needed. They realized if they didn’t do something now—the town would die. And no one wanted the heritage of the original hometown to become a Western ghost town. And so it began, with a church locking the doors... but the people taking charge of the key, doing their own services, giving their own sermons, gathering together to bring a small, struggling town back to life.
And they did it!
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive (US only):
all three Shepherd's Crossing books (Her Cowboy Reunion, A Cowboy Christmas, A Cowboy in Shepherd's Crossing)bookmarksa Seekerville notepada bag of chocolateEnter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight January 4, 2019 and last through 11:59pm January 11, 2019. US only. Winners will be notified within a week of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
************************* COMING SOON:
# # # # #
Welcome to the blog blitz & giveaway for A Cowboy in Shepherd's Crossing by Ruth Logan Herne, hosted by JustRead Tours.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: A Cowboy in Shepherd's Crossing Series: Shepherd's Crossing #2
Author: Ruth Logan Herne
Publisher: Love Inspired
Release Date: January 1, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Cowboy bachelor Jace Middleton was ready to leave Shepherd’s Crossing for good – until he learns his family’s unspoken secrets.
Now Jace finds himself not only caring for his twin baby nieces, but working with beautiful, strong-willed designer Melonie Fitzgerald to renovate his grandmother’s run-down estate.
Love wasn’t part of the plan… but Jace soon finds himself wishing Melonie could become part of his unexpected family.
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | CBD
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Best-selling, multi-published, award-winning author Ruth Logan Herne is the author of nearly fifty novels and novellas through traditional publishers and her own independent works. She loves God, her family, country, coffee, chocolate and dogs, and wishes possums would leave the cat food on the side porch alone. And yet… they don’t. With over a million books in print, Ruthy is living her dream of touching hearts and souls by writing the kind of books she likes to read. She lives on a pumpkin farm in Western New York where they grow all kinds of cool things for fall from sumptuous squashes and veggies to gorgeous stacking pumpkins. Ruthy’s farm is quickly becoming the place to be every September and October!
CONNECT WITH RUTHY: website | Facebook | Twitter
***GUEST POST SHARED BY THE AUTHOR:
--What’s Going On Behind the Scenes in Ruth Logan Herne’s “Shepherd’s Crossing” series?
WHAT A GREAT TOPIC because no book is ever as it seems on the shelf when it’s in book infancy…
But I’m going to spare you the bare bones initial writing because there is so much more going on in a small town hit by economic meltdown.
First, you need some heroes and heroines finding some sigh-worthy cowboys isn’t all that difficult in a land studded with Western men sporting cowboy hats. But that’s the window dressing, isn’t it? That’s not the heart of the story, the heart is what makes the characters and the setting hold your interest from beginning to end.
Heath Caufield doesn’t want his friend Jace to leave town, but he mostly wants what’s best for his friend, and if there’s no construction work for Jace, Heath can’t (in good conscience) hold him there… even though he wants to.
Government policies shape so much of background in stories, but we can’t give them too much page time because this is a romance, after all... BUT the re-introduction of wolves and bighorn sheep to the Idaho mountains has changed shepherding (sheep not going into the hills to graze, which means undergrowth thickens and could spread forest fires more quickly like we’ve seen in other hands-off regions)and ranching, and our heroes have to change the way they do things and we all know how much men love to change their ways!
Does Corrie Satterly have eyes for Bob Cook AKA: “Cookie”, the Pine Ridge Ranch kitchen manager?????
Bringing fears to life— Like Melonie’s aversion to horses— has to balance with the hero or heroine’s strength and courage. No one wants to read about a complete grown up scaredy-pants, right?
I love FIXER UPPER with Chip and Joanna, so having Melonie dream of doing her own cable show someday was a perfect nod to the only house-fixer-real-estate show I watched… because I know it can be so that well! Total Author Intrusion on that one!
Ava and Annie are adorable… and I love it when kids steal the show or in this case “the scene”… And if you add Zeke Caufield to the mix, that heart-grabbing five-year-old is such a cool kid and it’s possible that he’s modeled after a certain little person I know personally… The Mighty Finn, perhaps?
Hot Idaho summers really changed the tune for this series because I HAD NO CLUE that it got that hot there… but it does and my thoughts of snow scenes MELTED when I began the series in May and went on through the summer with the sisters. Fortunately, Love Inspired contracted a Christmas novella set in Shepherd’s Crossing (It’s in “A Cowboy Christmas” with my buddy Linda Goodnight) so I get to give reclusive horse lover Ty Carrington his holiday romance and a chance to regain the life he lost years ago! #BONUS!!!!
And then they contracted a free online read for readers, so handsome cowboy lawyer Mack Grayson got his story, and you might just need some tissues. It’s available here, they’ve been doing a chapter a day, like the old-fashioned magazine serials! The Cowboy’s Christmas Surprise
The fun of a diverse cast is a natural for me. We have multiple biracial and mixed ethnic families on both sides. It makes me crazy when people make color a cultural divide because I have no such issue with my farm eggs. Some are brown, some are beige, some are pinky-beige, white, blue and green and tan… and they’re all eggs. I love the blending of cultures while respecting cultures. I can’t imagine God wanted anything less from us, but then He’s God and he’s so stinkin’ smart!!!
It was a real trick to show the town mending when I was actually having all the cowboys on ranches… and the town was a place no one much visited because the businesses had all closed down… but when the church closed, and the pastor left, that was the kick in the head folks needed. They realized if they didn’t do something now—the town would die. And no one wanted the heritage of the original hometown to become a Western ghost town. And so it began, with a church locking the doors... but the people taking charge of the key, doing their own services, giving their own sermons, gathering together to bring a small, struggling town back to life.
And they did it!
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive (US only):
all three Shepherd's Crossing books (Her Cowboy Reunion, A Cowboy Christmas, A Cowboy in Shepherd's Crossing)bookmarksa Seekerville notepada bag of chocolateEnter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight January 4, 2019 and last through 11:59pm January 11, 2019. US only. Winners will be notified within a week of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
************************* COMING SOON:
# # # # #
December 20, 2018
~ COVER REVEAL FOR HANDMADE HEARTS ~
~ FRIDAY FICTION FEATURE ~COVER REVEAL FOR MYUPCOMING SHORT STORY,
'HANDMADE HEARTS'
INSPIRED BY A TRUE STORY ************************
I am thrilled to share the cover of my upcoming historical romance short story, 'Handmade Hearts', with you here on 'Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic'. The story will be officially released on January 8th, 2019, but it is now available in the Kindle Store on Amazon!
'HANDMADE HEARTS' BUY LINK
ABOUT THE STORY:
'Handmade Hearts' is an historical romance short story set in New Orleans during World War II and was inspired by a true story.
Toward the end of his life, I asked my Uncle 'Allen' how he met his wife. He shared about how he met 'Irene' at a church social in their neighborhood in New Orleans in the early 1940s. He had been seriously wounded in Guadalcanal in the South Pacific as a young Marine and was using crutches to get around as best he could.
He had many inner wounds which needed time to heal, too. He had no way of knowing when they first met that Irene had suffered her own wartime tragedy. She bravely sought to keep her grief locked away deep inside because thinking about her loss caused her even more sorrow. She needed to be strong because she was the breadwinner for her small family.
Times were tough, but these two unique individuals made it through each day with inner fortitude, determination, and the sincere hope of something greater just over the horizon.
This inspirational short story follows the growth of Allen and Irene's relationship beginning with their chance meeting and leading forward to a lifetime spent together. 'Handmade Hearts' was created to honor this unique couple's love for and devotion to each other in a relationship which spanned seven decades.
~Praise for 'Handmade Hearts':"What a lovely tribute to your aunt and uncle. It was a joy to read! . . . I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your story and thank you again for sharing it with me. ~Sandy
************* COVER REVEAL:
Cover design by Author Sarah Monzon.****************
Follow 'Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic' or my Author's Facebook Page to learn more about how to buy the digital version of the story or how to enjoy the Book Blitz Tour hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours running from January 15th -- January 19th, 2019. At the tour stops you can enter for a chance to win a digital copy of the story and an Amazon Gift Card!
# # # # #
I am thrilled to share the cover of my upcoming historical romance short story, 'Handmade Hearts', with you here on 'Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic'. The story will be officially released on January 8th, 2019, but it is now available in the Kindle Store on Amazon!
'HANDMADE HEARTS' BUY LINK
ABOUT THE STORY:
'Handmade Hearts' is an historical romance short story set in New Orleans during World War II and was inspired by a true story.
Toward the end of his life, I asked my Uncle 'Allen' how he met his wife. He shared about how he met 'Irene' at a church social in their neighborhood in New Orleans in the early 1940s. He had been seriously wounded in Guadalcanal in the South Pacific as a young Marine and was using crutches to get around as best he could.
He had many inner wounds which needed time to heal, too. He had no way of knowing when they first met that Irene had suffered her own wartime tragedy. She bravely sought to keep her grief locked away deep inside because thinking about her loss caused her even more sorrow. She needed to be strong because she was the breadwinner for her small family.
Times were tough, but these two unique individuals made it through each day with inner fortitude, determination, and the sincere hope of something greater just over the horizon.
This inspirational short story follows the growth of Allen and Irene's relationship beginning with their chance meeting and leading forward to a lifetime spent together. 'Handmade Hearts' was created to honor this unique couple's love for and devotion to each other in a relationship which spanned seven decades.
~Praise for 'Handmade Hearts':"What a lovely tribute to your aunt and uncle. It was a joy to read! . . . I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your story and thank you again for sharing it with me. ~Sandy
************* COVER REVEAL:
Cover design by Author Sarah Monzon.****************
Follow 'Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic' or my Author's Facebook Page to learn more about how to buy the digital version of the story or how to enjoy the Book Blitz Tour hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours running from January 15th -- January 19th, 2019. At the tour stops you can enter for a chance to win a digital copy of the story and an Amazon Gift Card!
# # # # #
December 18, 2018
~ BLOG TOUR THE SONGS THAT BROUGHT ME BACK ~
~ BLOG TOUR STOP ~
-- 'THE SONGS THAT BROUGHT ME BACK' --
AUTHOR MYLISSA DEMEYERE~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, AuthorBio, Guest Post by the Author Entitled'Why I Wrote Ainsley's Story' &Giveaway~
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Have you ever made a mistake? One so monumental you lost everything? I did, and I hate myself for it! All I want to do is close my eyes, and let the darkness consume me. Make it all go away. The end.
Ainsley is drowning in the depth of her despair. One wrong decision left her alone, with only regret as her constant companion. To escape it all, she makes another choice. One she hopes will end everything. Instead, she’s thrown into a whole new world filled with opportunities she doesn’t believe she deserves. Ethan gives the appearance of breezing through life. But underneath his bright facade, he’s scarred by loss. When fate leads him into Ainsley’s world at the exact moment she needs someone the most, he can’t ignore the chance to right the wrongs of his past. Ainsley and Ethan will struggle to help each other heal and start anew. They’ll learn that the secret to conquering their pain lies within their power, if only they can do it together. Always together. Sometimes the ending is really the beginning.
GUEST POST:WHY I WROTE AINSLEY'S STORY {FROM AUTHOR MYLISSA DEMEYERE} --
Did you know that every forty seconds 1 person dies due to suicide? That’s close to 800,000 worldwide, each year. There are indications that for each adult who dies of suicide there may have been more than 20 others attempting suicide. That’s an estimate of 16,000,000 attempted suicides worldwide amongst adults. (Source: The World Health Organization).
Five days shy of my sixteenth birthday, my father’s body was found after he had killed himself. Needless to say, it wasn’t the sweet sixteen it could have been.
That event had quite an impact on my life and how I decided to face the challenges I meet.
When I wrote The Songs of You and Me , I delved into Jackson’s past. He got to tell his side of how Ainsley’s choices affected him. I never felt I could leave her tale untold. Each story always has at least two sides to it.
Why does a person make such horrible choices as Ainsley did? What drives them to such selfishness? And does a person like Ainsley have it in her to redeem herself?
My dad made the choice not to fight and right the wrongs in his life. It not only ended his life; it impacted many other lives.
Ainsley’s story is my way of showing you what can happen when people who make mistakes decide to try and do better. Because everyone deserves a second chance to right the wrong and start over again.
This is Ainsley’s story of what happens when you choose to not give up.
I hope that whomever reads this, will realize that we all, at one point in our life need and deserve second chances. When we take those chances, and turn our lives around, miracles can happen. I have seen it firsthand and the stories that follow are beautiful. Not perfect, but definitely worth living.
Even when life seems dark, lost, and like there is no other way than ending it, there is ALWAYS another option.
To everyone who has ever felt like there was never another way, this story is for you. My dad didn’t take the other way, but I hope you will find help. Life isn’t always perfect, but it is a wonderful gift. Definitely worth fighting for.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Author Mylissa Demeyere was born in Belgium, and resides in the beautiful city of Ghent. She lives in a somewhat organized home with her four beautiful children and the love of her life. If she isn’t working, she’s writing, running, reading, or enjoying time with her kids, who are growing up way too fast. The Songs That Brought Me Back is her second novel in The Songs Series, with a third book releasing in the middle of 2019.
Website * BookBub * Facebook * Instagram * TwitterAmazon * Goodreads * Pinterest
GIVEAWAY:
$25 Tour Giveaway Ends 12/30/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
# # # # #
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Have you ever made a mistake? One so monumental you lost everything? I did, and I hate myself for it! All I want to do is close my eyes, and let the darkness consume me. Make it all go away. The end.
Ainsley is drowning in the depth of her despair. One wrong decision left her alone, with only regret as her constant companion. To escape it all, she makes another choice. One she hopes will end everything. Instead, she’s thrown into a whole new world filled with opportunities she doesn’t believe she deserves. Ethan gives the appearance of breezing through life. But underneath his bright facade, he’s scarred by loss. When fate leads him into Ainsley’s world at the exact moment she needs someone the most, he can’t ignore the chance to right the wrongs of his past. Ainsley and Ethan will struggle to help each other heal and start anew. They’ll learn that the secret to conquering their pain lies within their power, if only they can do it together. Always together. Sometimes the ending is really the beginning.
GUEST POST:WHY I WROTE AINSLEY'S STORY {FROM AUTHOR MYLISSA DEMEYERE} --
Did you know that every forty seconds 1 person dies due to suicide? That’s close to 800,000 worldwide, each year. There are indications that for each adult who dies of suicide there may have been more than 20 others attempting suicide. That’s an estimate of 16,000,000 attempted suicides worldwide amongst adults. (Source: The World Health Organization).
Five days shy of my sixteenth birthday, my father’s body was found after he had killed himself. Needless to say, it wasn’t the sweet sixteen it could have been.
That event had quite an impact on my life and how I decided to face the challenges I meet.
When I wrote The Songs of You and Me , I delved into Jackson’s past. He got to tell his side of how Ainsley’s choices affected him. I never felt I could leave her tale untold. Each story always has at least two sides to it.
Why does a person make such horrible choices as Ainsley did? What drives them to such selfishness? And does a person like Ainsley have it in her to redeem herself?
My dad made the choice not to fight and right the wrongs in his life. It not only ended his life; it impacted many other lives.
Ainsley’s story is my way of showing you what can happen when people who make mistakes decide to try and do better. Because everyone deserves a second chance to right the wrong and start over again.
This is Ainsley’s story of what happens when you choose to not give up.
I hope that whomever reads this, will realize that we all, at one point in our life need and deserve second chances. When we take those chances, and turn our lives around, miracles can happen. I have seen it firsthand and the stories that follow are beautiful. Not perfect, but definitely worth living.
Even when life seems dark, lost, and like there is no other way than ending it, there is ALWAYS another option.
To everyone who has ever felt like there was never another way, this story is for you. My dad didn’t take the other way, but I hope you will find help. Life isn’t always perfect, but it is a wonderful gift. Definitely worth fighting for.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Author Mylissa Demeyere was born in Belgium, and resides in the beautiful city of Ghent. She lives in a somewhat organized home with her four beautiful children and the love of her life. If she isn’t working, she’s writing, running, reading, or enjoying time with her kids, who are growing up way too fast. The Songs That Brought Me Back is her second novel in The Songs Series, with a third book releasing in the middle of 2019.
Website * BookBub * Facebook * Instagram * TwitterAmazon * Goodreads * Pinterest
GIVEAWAY:
$25 Tour Giveaway Ends 12/30/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
# # # # #
~ CWR 2018 READERS' CHOICE AWARDS VOTE ~
~ CLEAN WHOLESOME ROMANCE'S2018 READERS' CHOICE AWARDS ~
RULES:
No anonymous votes. Sorry, but you have to vote with your name and email address.
One vote per person.
You must be subscribed to Clean Wholesome Romance’s Newsletter to cast your vote. This helps ensures that there is only one vote per person.
Voting runs from December 18, 2018 to January 2, 2019.
Books must have been published during the year 2018.
Authors CANNOT vote for a book they wrote or published.
Those related to an author CANNOT vote for a book written by a member of their immediate or extended family.
You can nominate the same book for more than one category (ex: Best Debut author, contemporary romance & Best Book Cover)
You can vote for up to THREE books in each category.
Please include the book title & author’s name in your nominations.
If you have any questions please ask.
Are you ready to vote? If so, cast your votes in the form found at the following link: CLEAN WHOLESOME ROMANCE 2018 READER'S CHOICE AWARDS BALLOT
RULES:
No anonymous votes. Sorry, but you have to vote with your name and email address.
One vote per person.
You must be subscribed to Clean Wholesome Romance’s Newsletter to cast your vote. This helps ensures that there is only one vote per person.
Voting runs from December 18, 2018 to January 2, 2019.
Books must have been published during the year 2018.
Authors CANNOT vote for a book they wrote or published.
Those related to an author CANNOT vote for a book written by a member of their immediate or extended family.
You can nominate the same book for more than one category (ex: Best Debut author, contemporary romance & Best Book Cover)
You can vote for up to THREE books in each category.
Please include the book title & author’s name in your nominations.
If you have any questions please ask.
Are you ready to vote? If so, cast your votes in the form found at the following link: CLEAN WHOLESOME ROMANCE 2018 READER'S CHOICE AWARDS BALLOT
December 16, 2018
~ MMGM HISTORICAL CHRISTMAS FICTION HOLLY AND IVY ~
~ MARVELOUS MIDDLE-GRADEMONDAY HISTORICALCHRISTMAS FICTION ~
-- 'THE STORY OF HOLLY & IVY' --
AUTHOR RUMER GODDENPICTURES BY BARBARA COONEY~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, AuthorBio, and My Thoughts~
LEARN MORE ON GOODREADS
ABOUT THE BOOK (FROM GOODREADS):
Ivy, Holly, and Mr. and Mrs. Jones all have one Christmas wish.
Ivy, an orphan, wishes for a real home and sets out in search of the grandmother she's sure she can find. Holly, a doll, wishes for a child to bring her to life. And the Joneses wish more than anything for a son or daughter to share their holiday. Can all three wishes come true? This festive tale is perfectly complemented by beloved Barbara Cooney's luminous illustrations, filled with the warm glow of the Christmas spirit.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR (FROM GOODREADS):Margaret Rumer Godden was born in Sussex, but grew up in India, in Narayanganj. Many of her 60 books are set in India. Black Narcissus was made into a famous movie with Deborah Kerr in 1947.
Godden wrote novels, poetry, plays, biographies, and books for children.
For more information, see the official website: Rumer Godden
MY THOUGHTS:
I used to read this book to my first grade students each December before we went on winter break. I think I'm giving this story the highest compliment possible by saying that after the holidays, the girls and the boys begged, and I do mean begged, me to reread this touching story to them again. Most years we read the story at least three times!
It's an awesome story with delightful illustrations. The text of the story originally appeared in the Ladies Home Journal Magazine in 1957. It was originally published by Viking Penguin Inc. in 1958. I have owned a copy of this book for thirty-one years, and I still read it every holiday season for my own pleasure.
The first line of the book is: "This is a story about wishing."
Who knows more about wishing than children? That's how the magic of this story begins. And there is an element of fantasy in this story that children of all ages will enjoy.
The main characters of the story are an orphan girl, Ivy, and a beautiful Christmas doll in a toy shop window, Holly. Through a chain of unfortunate events and through her own iron will, Ivy disobeys the instructions of Miss Shepherd, the woman who runs the orphanage. Instead of going to the infants home in the country, Ivy tells everyone at the train station and on the train that she is getting off at Appleton to spend Christmas with her grandmother.
There is no grandmother, but there is an Appleton. When Ivy awakes from a nap, she jumps out of the train at a station where the sign reads "A. p. . t.n.". Ivy is not a good reader {many of my students could relate to this at this point in the school year}, but she knows "A" stands for Appleton. She forgets about her suitcase and pencil box and begins to explore the quaint town.
Ivy enjoys the Christmas market and wanders around until darkness falls. Then she begins walking up and down the streets of the neighborhood looking into houses and seeing happy families, lovely Christmas trees, and other decorations. Ivy is even more determined to find her 'grandmother'.
Eventually she finds the toy shop and discovers Holly the Christmas doll on the shelf in the front window. Ivy is mesmerized by the doll -- her Christmas doll.
I won't go any further with the plot because I do not want to spoil the beauty and magic of this story for any of you who may read it for yourself or read it to your children and grandchildren. Suffice to say, this is my all-time favorite piece of Christmas-themed children's literature!
***Highly-recommended to readers of all ages!
-------------------- SPECIAL NOTE: This will be my last Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday blog post for 2018. I will be taking some time off from blogging before 2019 rolls around. I will be very busy in 2019 releasing and promoting my inspirational historical romance short story, 'Handmade Hearts', on January 8th. My debut middle-grade novel, an historical novel set in Northern California in 1968 and titled, 'RES-Q Tyler Stop', will be released in the spring of 2019. I'm thrilled about sharing both of these stories with readers.
I appreciate all of the readers who follow my blog and who faithfully read my MMGM posts {and other posts} each week. Your involvement and interest in my blogging and writing endeavors is greatly appreciated!
I'd like to thank all the bloggers in the MMGM group for their consistent positive remarks and support ever since I launched this new blog at the end of January, 2018. You authors and bloggers are the best ever!
Kudos go out to Greg Pattridge over at the 'Always in the Middle' blog {see link below} for gathering and posting the list of links for MMGM on his blog each Monday morning along with posting his own reviews and news features on his blog each week. Thank you so much, Greg!
I'll be back on Monday, January 7th, 2019, with another book feature for the MMGM audience. In the meantime, may your holiday celebrations for whatever holidays you chose to celebrate be special and may 2019 be a healthy, successful, happy year for you and yours!
Best wishes, June
****************************
Find the links to read more great Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday posts from middle-grade authors and bloggers at Greg Pattridge's 'Always in the Middle' Blog.
# # # # #
LEARN MORE ON GOODREADSABOUT THE BOOK (FROM GOODREADS):
Ivy, Holly, and Mr. and Mrs. Jones all have one Christmas wish.
Ivy, an orphan, wishes for a real home and sets out in search of the grandmother she's sure she can find. Holly, a doll, wishes for a child to bring her to life. And the Joneses wish more than anything for a son or daughter to share their holiday. Can all three wishes come true? This festive tale is perfectly complemented by beloved Barbara Cooney's luminous illustrations, filled with the warm glow of the Christmas spirit.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR (FROM GOODREADS):Margaret Rumer Godden was born in Sussex, but grew up in India, in Narayanganj. Many of her 60 books are set in India. Black Narcissus was made into a famous movie with Deborah Kerr in 1947.
Godden wrote novels, poetry, plays, biographies, and books for children.
For more information, see the official website: Rumer Godden
MY THOUGHTS:
I used to read this book to my first grade students each December before we went on winter break. I think I'm giving this story the highest compliment possible by saying that after the holidays, the girls and the boys begged, and I do mean begged, me to reread this touching story to them again. Most years we read the story at least three times!
It's an awesome story with delightful illustrations. The text of the story originally appeared in the Ladies Home Journal Magazine in 1957. It was originally published by Viking Penguin Inc. in 1958. I have owned a copy of this book for thirty-one years, and I still read it every holiday season for my own pleasure.
The first line of the book is: "This is a story about wishing."
Who knows more about wishing than children? That's how the magic of this story begins. And there is an element of fantasy in this story that children of all ages will enjoy.
The main characters of the story are an orphan girl, Ivy, and a beautiful Christmas doll in a toy shop window, Holly. Through a chain of unfortunate events and through her own iron will, Ivy disobeys the instructions of Miss Shepherd, the woman who runs the orphanage. Instead of going to the infants home in the country, Ivy tells everyone at the train station and on the train that she is getting off at Appleton to spend Christmas with her grandmother.
There is no grandmother, but there is an Appleton. When Ivy awakes from a nap, she jumps out of the train at a station where the sign reads "A. p. . t.n.". Ivy is not a good reader {many of my students could relate to this at this point in the school year}, but she knows "A" stands for Appleton. She forgets about her suitcase and pencil box and begins to explore the quaint town.
Ivy enjoys the Christmas market and wanders around until darkness falls. Then she begins walking up and down the streets of the neighborhood looking into houses and seeing happy families, lovely Christmas trees, and other decorations. Ivy is even more determined to find her 'grandmother'.
Eventually she finds the toy shop and discovers Holly the Christmas doll on the shelf in the front window. Ivy is mesmerized by the doll -- her Christmas doll.
I won't go any further with the plot because I do not want to spoil the beauty and magic of this story for any of you who may read it for yourself or read it to your children and grandchildren. Suffice to say, this is my all-time favorite piece of Christmas-themed children's literature!
***Highly-recommended to readers of all ages!
-------------------- SPECIAL NOTE: This will be my last Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday blog post for 2018. I will be taking some time off from blogging before 2019 rolls around. I will be very busy in 2019 releasing and promoting my inspirational historical romance short story, 'Handmade Hearts', on January 8th. My debut middle-grade novel, an historical novel set in Northern California in 1968 and titled, 'RES-Q Tyler Stop', will be released in the spring of 2019. I'm thrilled about sharing both of these stories with readers.
I appreciate all of the readers who follow my blog and who faithfully read my MMGM posts {and other posts} each week. Your involvement and interest in my blogging and writing endeavors is greatly appreciated!
I'd like to thank all the bloggers in the MMGM group for their consistent positive remarks and support ever since I launched this new blog at the end of January, 2018. You authors and bloggers are the best ever!
Kudos go out to Greg Pattridge over at the 'Always in the Middle' blog {see link below} for gathering and posting the list of links for MMGM on his blog each Monday morning along with posting his own reviews and news features on his blog each week. Thank you so much, Greg!
I'll be back on Monday, January 7th, 2019, with another book feature for the MMGM audience. In the meantime, may your holiday celebrations for whatever holidays you chose to celebrate be special and may 2019 be a healthy, successful, happy year for you and yours!
Best wishes, June
****************************
Find the links to read more great Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday posts from middle-grade authors and bloggers at Greg Pattridge's 'Always in the Middle' Blog.
# # # # #
December 13, 2018
~ BLOG TOUR STOP SILENT DAYS HOLY NIGHT ~
~ BLOG TOUR STOP ~
-- 'SILENT DAYS, HOLY NIGHT' --
AUTHOR PHYLLIS CLARK NICHOLS~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, Author Bio,Unique Guest Post by Author & Giveaway~
Let's all get in the mood for Christmas with this blog tour and giveaway for Silent Days, Holy Night by Phyllis Clark Nichols, hosted by JustRead Tours.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Silent Days, Holy Night
Author: Phyllis Clark Nichols
Publisher: Gilead Publishing
Release Date: October 30, 2018
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction/Christmas
The sounds of Christmases past echo through a silent house...
Everyone in town knows Emerald Crest, the green granite mansion atop the highest hill: the legendary, lavish Christmas festivities that used to light up the nights— and the silence that followed when the parties abruptly stopped many years ago. And everyone has heard whispers about the reclusive, mysterious master of the manor, Henry Lafferty the Second . . .
When eleven-year-old Julia Russell steps into the great house for the first time and meets Mr. Lafferty, the entire course of her life is altered. She meets a man who is nothing at all like the rumors she’s heard from neighbors and classmates. He’s kind and extraordinarily talented—he also happens to be deaf and uses a wheelchair. And when she overhears a secret about him, Julia decides it’s time for the town to bring Christmas back to Emerald Crest—an act that will change them all forever.
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | CBD | Book Depository
GUEST POST BY THE AUTHOR:
--Little-Known Facts About the Book Shared by the Author:
We writers are always revealing so much as we write – descriptions of places, depictions of characters, and timely revelations to keep the reader interested. But there are always a few secrets that we keep to ourselves. I suppose now they won’t be secret anymore.
1.) I drew heavily from my experiences in learning sign-language from a friend who was deaf-blind. Like young Julia, I so wanted to communicate with her that I was drawn to learn her language. Learning tactile sign language was quite an experience.
2.) Emerald Crest is the green mansion on the hillside in a fictitious, small West Virginia town. I imagined every room in the house, even to drawing a floor plan and placing furniture. I feel that I knew every creaking board and could feel the marble countertop on the kitchen island. I could hear the piano’s resonance against the stone walls and marble floors. I could smell the wood shavings as Henry and Julia carved birds. It was a magical place to be while I wrote the book.
3.) My research taught me much about woodcarving and all its tools.
4.) Writing the story in first-person, and in the voice of a ten-year-old was quite a challenge. I was grateful Julia was such an inquisitive and loquacious child. She kept me awake many nights with her oh-so-decisive voice in my head.
5.) Because I’m Southern to my “bless-my-heart” core, there is always food in my books. I so enjoyed the afternoons spent in the kitchen making cookies and deciding which cookies Grancie would have really made. The reader will find two of her favorite cookie recipes in the book.
6.) One of the most difficult passages to write was the story that young Julia wrote about the King on the High Mountain. Telling the story in her voice was much easier than writing a story she reveals in the book. That story was shredded several times and then again.
7.) The story opens present-day with the main character remembering a past Christmas in the first chapter. The remainder of the book is about that Christmas sixteen years ago. But since I knew the end of the story had to be present day again, I worked at weaving present-day scenes throughout the book. Tying those scenes together with her memories was challenging.
8.) Another real challenge was how to present visibly the sign language taking place between the characters so that the reader would understand. Italics to the rescue!
9.) There is always a cardinal or two in my Christmas books! They’re my favorite birds.
10.) The cover of this book is my favorite book cover of any of my books.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Phyllis Clark Nichols’s character-driven Southern fiction explores profound human questions using the imagined residents of small town communities you just know you’ve visited before. With a strong faith and a love for nature, art, music, and ordinary people, she tells redemptive tales of loss and recovery, estrangement and connection, longing and fulfillment . . . often through surprisingly serendipitous events.
Phyllis grew up in the deep shade of magnolia trees in South Georgia. Born during a hurricane, she is no stranger to the winds of change: In addition to her life as a novelist, Phyllis is a seminary graduate, concert pianist, and cofounder of a national cable network with health- and disability-related programming. Regardless of the role she’s playing, Phyllis brings creativity and compelling storytelling.
She frequently appears at conventions, conferences, civic groups, and churches, performing half-hour musical monologues that express her faith, joy, and thoughts about life—all with the homespun humor and gentility of a true Southern woman.
Phyllis currently serves on several nonprofit boards. She lives in the Texas Hill Country with her portrait-artist husband.
CONNECT WITH PHYLLIS: website | Facebook | Twitter
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive (US only):
a print copy of Silent Days, Holy Night by Phyllis Clark Nicholsa print copy of Sleigh Bells Ring by various authorsEnter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight December 10, 2018 and last through 11:59pm December 17, 2018. US only. Winners will be notified within a week of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
a Rafflecopter giveaway Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
# # # # #
Let's all get in the mood for Christmas with this blog tour and giveaway for Silent Days, Holy Night by Phyllis Clark Nichols, hosted by JustRead Tours.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Silent Days, Holy Night Author: Phyllis Clark Nichols
Publisher: Gilead Publishing
Release Date: October 30, 2018
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction/Christmas
The sounds of Christmases past echo through a silent house...
Everyone in town knows Emerald Crest, the green granite mansion atop the highest hill: the legendary, lavish Christmas festivities that used to light up the nights— and the silence that followed when the parties abruptly stopped many years ago. And everyone has heard whispers about the reclusive, mysterious master of the manor, Henry Lafferty the Second . . .
When eleven-year-old Julia Russell steps into the great house for the first time and meets Mr. Lafferty, the entire course of her life is altered. She meets a man who is nothing at all like the rumors she’s heard from neighbors and classmates. He’s kind and extraordinarily talented—he also happens to be deaf and uses a wheelchair. And when she overhears a secret about him, Julia decides it’s time for the town to bring Christmas back to Emerald Crest—an act that will change them all forever.
PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | CBD | Book Depository
GUEST POST BY THE AUTHOR:
--Little-Known Facts About the Book Shared by the Author:
We writers are always revealing so much as we write – descriptions of places, depictions of characters, and timely revelations to keep the reader interested. But there are always a few secrets that we keep to ourselves. I suppose now they won’t be secret anymore.
1.) I drew heavily from my experiences in learning sign-language from a friend who was deaf-blind. Like young Julia, I so wanted to communicate with her that I was drawn to learn her language. Learning tactile sign language was quite an experience.
2.) Emerald Crest is the green mansion on the hillside in a fictitious, small West Virginia town. I imagined every room in the house, even to drawing a floor plan and placing furniture. I feel that I knew every creaking board and could feel the marble countertop on the kitchen island. I could hear the piano’s resonance against the stone walls and marble floors. I could smell the wood shavings as Henry and Julia carved birds. It was a magical place to be while I wrote the book.
3.) My research taught me much about woodcarving and all its tools.
4.) Writing the story in first-person, and in the voice of a ten-year-old was quite a challenge. I was grateful Julia was such an inquisitive and loquacious child. She kept me awake many nights with her oh-so-decisive voice in my head.
5.) Because I’m Southern to my “bless-my-heart” core, there is always food in my books. I so enjoyed the afternoons spent in the kitchen making cookies and deciding which cookies Grancie would have really made. The reader will find two of her favorite cookie recipes in the book.
6.) One of the most difficult passages to write was the story that young Julia wrote about the King on the High Mountain. Telling the story in her voice was much easier than writing a story she reveals in the book. That story was shredded several times and then again.
7.) The story opens present-day with the main character remembering a past Christmas in the first chapter. The remainder of the book is about that Christmas sixteen years ago. But since I knew the end of the story had to be present day again, I worked at weaving present-day scenes throughout the book. Tying those scenes together with her memories was challenging.
8.) Another real challenge was how to present visibly the sign language taking place between the characters so that the reader would understand. Italics to the rescue!
9.) There is always a cardinal or two in my Christmas books! They’re my favorite birds.
10.) The cover of this book is my favorite book cover of any of my books.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Phyllis Clark Nichols’s character-driven Southern fiction explores profound human questions using the imagined residents of small town communities you just know you’ve visited before. With a strong faith and a love for nature, art, music, and ordinary people, she tells redemptive tales of loss and recovery, estrangement and connection, longing and fulfillment . . . often through surprisingly serendipitous events.
Phyllis grew up in the deep shade of magnolia trees in South Georgia. Born during a hurricane, she is no stranger to the winds of change: In addition to her life as a novelist, Phyllis is a seminary graduate, concert pianist, and cofounder of a national cable network with health- and disability-related programming. Regardless of the role she’s playing, Phyllis brings creativity and compelling storytelling.
She frequently appears at conventions, conferences, civic groups, and churches, performing half-hour musical monologues that express her faith, joy, and thoughts about life—all with the homespun humor and gentility of a true Southern woman.
Phyllis currently serves on several nonprofit boards. She lives in the Texas Hill Country with her portrait-artist husband.
CONNECT WITH PHYLLIS: website | Facebook | Twitter
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive (US only):
a print copy of Silent Days, Holy Night by Phyllis Clark Nicholsa print copy of Sleigh Bells Ring by various authorsEnter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight December 10, 2018 and last through 11:59pm December 17, 2018. US only. Winners will be notified within a week of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
a Rafflecopter giveaway Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
# # # # #
December 11, 2018
~ RELEASE DAY BLAST 'A ME AND YOU THING' ~
~ RELEASE DAY BOOK BLAST ~
-- 'A ME AND YOU THING' --
AUTHOR TAYLOR DEAN~Post Includes: Book Spotlight,Author Bio & Giveaway~
ABOUT THE BOOK:
~THE DEEPEST HEARTACHE IS THE ONE YOU DON'T SEE COMING. ~
Golden couple, Sawyer and Quinn Denali, have an amazing love story. A match in every way, their happiness is evident to all who spend time with them. The arrival of twin baby girls completes their picture-perfect family.
When Quinn has the opportunity to help others on a two-week volunteer trip, she reluctantly leaves her family, knowing a short break from the demands of motherhood will be good for her. She doesn’t expect the trip to change her life forever. But it does. It changes everything.
Struggling from day to day, the young family moves forward, finding happiness . . . and love. But fate isn’t done mixing things up in their lives.
When an unexpected event leaves them all reeling, the unspoken question rings loudly and can’t be ignored: “What happens now?” A Me and You Thing is a novel that explores the strength of enduring love and friendship.
Praise for A Me and You Thing:
Wow! This heart-tugging romance blew me away. It’s an emotional roller-coaster ride of epic proportions…so prepare yourself. My heart soared up into the heavens, then was dragged into the bitter misery of h***, like being dragged behind a pickup truck for a mile or so. Ouch! But I got my happy (actually, glorious!) ending, so I loved it. The ending was so much more fulfilling because of what my heart went through to get there with the characters. This story is unique and refreshing—not your run-of-the-mill predictable romance that doesn’t stick with you when you finish. No! This one is made of super glue, and will be stuck in your heart forevermore. ~Author Charissa Stastny
Here's my recommendation. Don't read the summary. Don't read any more reviews. Order this book now! Clear your calendar and plan to spend the day reading. You'll be thanking me if you do. ~Kathy Habel
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of clean romance in her line-up.
Website * Twitter * Facebook * Goodreads * Newsletter
GIVEAWAY:
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 12/28/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway
*****************
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO A '12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS' EVENT PRESENTED BY THE READERS & WRITERS OF CLEAN FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP.
YOU'LL NEED TO PLAN AHEAD TO ATTEND BECAUSE YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF THE CLOSED GROUP TO PARTICIPATE. HERE'S THE LINK TO THE PAGE SO YOU CAN SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS TO THE MODERATOR'S THREE QUESTIONS AND BE APPROVED AHEAD OF TIME. LINK TO READER & WRITERS OF CLEAN YOUTH FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP
ABOUT THE BOOK:
~THE DEEPEST HEARTACHE IS THE ONE YOU DON'T SEE COMING. ~
Golden couple, Sawyer and Quinn Denali, have an amazing love story. A match in every way, their happiness is evident to all who spend time with them. The arrival of twin baby girls completes their picture-perfect family.
When Quinn has the opportunity to help others on a two-week volunteer trip, she reluctantly leaves her family, knowing a short break from the demands of motherhood will be good for her. She doesn’t expect the trip to change her life forever. But it does. It changes everything.
Struggling from day to day, the young family moves forward, finding happiness . . . and love. But fate isn’t done mixing things up in their lives.
When an unexpected event leaves them all reeling, the unspoken question rings loudly and can’t be ignored: “What happens now?” A Me and You Thing is a novel that explores the strength of enduring love and friendship.
Praise for A Me and You Thing:
Wow! This heart-tugging romance blew me away. It’s an emotional roller-coaster ride of epic proportions…so prepare yourself. My heart soared up into the heavens, then was dragged into the bitter misery of h***, like being dragged behind a pickup truck for a mile or so. Ouch! But I got my happy (actually, glorious!) ending, so I loved it. The ending was so much more fulfilling because of what my heart went through to get there with the characters. This story is unique and refreshing—not your run-of-the-mill predictable romance that doesn’t stick with you when you finish. No! This one is made of super glue, and will be stuck in your heart forevermore. ~Author Charissa Stastny
Here's my recommendation. Don't read the summary. Don't read any more reviews. Order this book now! Clear your calendar and plan to spend the day reading. You'll be thanking me if you do. ~Kathy Habel
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of clean romance in her line-up.
Website * Twitter * Facebook * Goodreads * Newsletter
GIVEAWAY:
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 12/28/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway
*****************
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO A '12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS' EVENT PRESENTED BY THE READERS & WRITERS OF CLEAN FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP.
YOU'LL NEED TO PLAN AHEAD TO ATTEND BECAUSE YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF THE CLOSED GROUP TO PARTICIPATE. HERE'S THE LINK TO THE PAGE SO YOU CAN SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS TO THE MODERATOR'S THREE QUESTIONS AND BE APPROVED AHEAD OF TIME. LINK TO READER & WRITERS OF CLEAN YOUTH FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP
December 10, 2018
~ BLOG TOUR MY BROTHER'S BRIDE ~
~ BLOG TOUR STOP ~
-- 'MY BROTHER'S BRIDE' --
AUTHOR RACHAEL ANDERSON~ Post Includes: Book Spotlight, AuthorBio & Giveaway~
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Abigail Nash leads a lonely existence. Her mother died giving birth to her, her father’s business dealings took him away more often than not, and her ailing great-aunt, unable to provide much in the way of companionship, was a lack-luster guardian at best. So when her dear friends offered to launch her into London society, it appeared Abby’s life was taking a turn for the better, with suitors and social engagements aplenty.
When she marries a proclaimed darling of the ton, it seems she will at last settle into the life of her dreams. But appearances aren’t always what they seem, and dreams often become disappointments. Just months into her marriage, Abby finds herself widowed, penniless, increasing, and determined to never hope again. But when her late husband’s brother, the Earl of Brigston, attempts to thaw the numbness surrounding her heart, Abby must decide if she has it in her to risk another chance at happiness, knowing the odds are not in her favor.
Get your copy from Amazon
Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Praise for My Brother's Bride:
I haven't read a book by Rachael Anderson that I didn't absolutely love and this awesome book didn't fail to meet that grade. ~Vicki
Enjoyed reading this book. The characters, dialogue, and plotline kept me entertained. Highly recommend this book to those who enjoy clean romances. ~Michele
This is the first full-length novel I've read by Rachael Anderson, but it definitely won't be the last. I really enjoyed the story--the writing was really good with no annoying parts or awkwardness, the plot was interesting, the characters were endearing (I loved the banter between Brigtson and Abby!), and this book was just really good. Highly enjoyable. Great choice for those who like clean, well-written Regency romances. ~AE2
This forbidden Regency romance was excellent! Once I started, it was hard—almost impossible—to put down. The characters—Abigail and Brigston—were super well done. I became invested in their lives, their troubles, their hearts really fast, and the author did a superb job of not letting me go. The plot twist was unique. ~Charissa
A lovely, well-written story. Highly recommended. ~Linda I always enjoy Ms. Anderson's books! This one is wonderful, filled with great story and characters. Beautiful story of love, family and forgiveness. ~Nichee
I can not praise this author's books enough. I have loved every single one. I love the characters! I love the development of the romance! I love the story line. I love the fun dialogue. I know when I start one of her books I will have a hard time putting it down until I am done and then I am sad the book is over. I love that each story is unique. ~Nari
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A USA Today bestselling author, Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.
Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * NewsletterBookBub * Goodreads * Amazon Author Page
Giveaway Details $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/1/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
*****************
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO A '12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS' EVENT PRESENTED BY THE READERS & WRITERS OF CLEAN FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP.
YOU'LL NEED TO PLAN AHEAD TO ATTEND BECAUSE YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF THE CLOSED GROUP TO PARTICIPATE. HERE'S THE LINK TO THE PAGE SO YOU CAN SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS TO THE MODERATOR'S THREE QUESTIONS AND BE APPROVED AHEAD OF TIME. LINK TO READER & WRITERS OF CLEAN YOUTH FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Abigail Nash leads a lonely existence. Her mother died giving birth to her, her father’s business dealings took him away more often than not, and her ailing great-aunt, unable to provide much in the way of companionship, was a lack-luster guardian at best. So when her dear friends offered to launch her into London society, it appeared Abby’s life was taking a turn for the better, with suitors and social engagements aplenty.
When she marries a proclaimed darling of the ton, it seems she will at last settle into the life of her dreams. But appearances aren’t always what they seem, and dreams often become disappointments. Just months into her marriage, Abby finds herself widowed, penniless, increasing, and determined to never hope again. But when her late husband’s brother, the Earl of Brigston, attempts to thaw the numbness surrounding her heart, Abby must decide if she has it in her to risk another chance at happiness, knowing the odds are not in her favor.
Get your copy from Amazon
Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Praise for My Brother's Bride:
I haven't read a book by Rachael Anderson that I didn't absolutely love and this awesome book didn't fail to meet that grade. ~Vicki
Enjoyed reading this book. The characters, dialogue, and plotline kept me entertained. Highly recommend this book to those who enjoy clean romances. ~Michele
This is the first full-length novel I've read by Rachael Anderson, but it definitely won't be the last. I really enjoyed the story--the writing was really good with no annoying parts or awkwardness, the plot was interesting, the characters were endearing (I loved the banter between Brigtson and Abby!), and this book was just really good. Highly enjoyable. Great choice for those who like clean, well-written Regency romances. ~AE2
This forbidden Regency romance was excellent! Once I started, it was hard—almost impossible—to put down. The characters—Abigail and Brigston—were super well done. I became invested in their lives, their troubles, their hearts really fast, and the author did a superb job of not letting me go. The plot twist was unique. ~Charissa
A lovely, well-written story. Highly recommended. ~Linda I always enjoy Ms. Anderson's books! This one is wonderful, filled with great story and characters. Beautiful story of love, family and forgiveness. ~Nichee
I can not praise this author's books enough. I have loved every single one. I love the characters! I love the development of the romance! I love the story line. I love the fun dialogue. I know when I start one of her books I will have a hard time putting it down until I am done and then I am sad the book is over. I love that each story is unique. ~Nari
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A USA Today bestselling author, Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.
Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * NewsletterBookBub * Goodreads * Amazon Author Page
Giveaway Details $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/1/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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December 9, 2018
~ MMGM A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS ~
~ MARVELOUS MIDDLE-GRADEMONDAY PEANUTS®CHRISTMAS FEATURE ~
-- 'A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS':
THE TELEVISION SPECIAL FROM 1965 --
A photo of my personal copy of the video of'A Charlie Brown Christmas'
~In honor of the fiftieth anniversary of the premiere of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' on television on December 9th, 1965, I researched and wrote the following article. I hope you enjoy reading about the Peanuts gang as much as I enjoyed writing this essay.~
My personal collection of Peanuts® ornaments circa 1982.
~A Golden Charlie Brown Christmas~
©June McCrary Jacobs, December 2015, December 2017, December 2018.
December 9, 1965, was the premier airing of a unique television feature developed for children. The golden anniversary of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' will soon be upon us, and many baby boomers have fond memories of the first time he or she watched the animated special that magical evening fifty years ago. These eager viewers had no idea they were watching a groundbreaking chapter in television history.
The anticipation of seeing a new animated feature was great in those days before videos, DVD's, video games and computers. Baby boomers had to make a trip to a movie theater to view full-length movies, and regularly-running television cartoons such as 'Bugs Bunny,' 'Underdog,' and 'The Roadrunner and Wiley Coyote' were not in the same category as this brand new holiday special featuring the Peanuts Gang!
Coca-Cola sponsored the special which was broadcast on CBS and its affiliates at 7:30PM on Thursday, December 9, 1965. There were almost 36 million viewers, and the show was an instant success. Letters poured in to Coca-Cola's office, from adults as well as children, thanking the company for sponsoring such a well-done family show. The show would not have been created had it not been for the inspiration and creativity of the Peanuts comic strip artist, Charles M. Schulz.
Charles Monroe Schulz was born on November 26, 1922, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Two days after his birth, he was nicknamed 'Sparky' after the racehorse 'Spark Plug' in the newspaper comic strip, 'Barney Google.' He served in the Army during World War II. In 1950, Schulz signed with United Feature Syndicate and his strip title of 'Li'l Folks' was changed to 'Peanuts'.
On October 2, 1950, the first Peanuts daily strip was run with the first Sunday strip being published on January 6, 1952. In total, 17,897 strips were fully written, drawn, and lettered entirely by Charles Schulz. (The Complete Peanuts, Introduction by Gary Groth). The final original Peanuts strip ran on Sunday, February 12, 2000. Mr. Schulz died in his sleep just hours before the Sunday papers ran this last strip.
In his book, A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition, author Lee Mendelson relates the history of this innovative Christmas special. After a feature about Charles M. Schulz and the Peanuts gang was the cover story of an April 1965 issue of 'Time' Magazine, Mendelson was approached by John Allen from the McCann Erickson Agency in New York. Mr. McCann wondered if Mr. Schulz would be interested in producing a half-hour Christmas television special for Coca-Cola. (A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition, page 14) Up until this time, Mr. Schulz had hesitated to allow his comic strip characters to be used in this other medium. Therefore, this would be the first time the Peanuts characters would be animated.
In response to learning of the proposal, Mr. Schulz was very specific about which elements he wanted to include—if he agreed to the project. This would be the first Peanuts television special, and Mr. Schulz wanted the show to include the true meaning of Christmas. During their discussion, Mr. Schulz stated, "If we're going to do a Christmas show, then we ought to talk about the true meaning of Christmas . . . maybe have Linus read something from the Bible." (page xii in Forward by Bill Melendez). This idea came to fruition with Linus's recitation of the Christmas story from the Gospel according to St. Luke toward the end of the special.
The remaining requirements placed on the table by Mr. Schulz were the inclusion of scenes with snow and skaters. There would be a Christmas play. A mix of jazz music with traditional music would comprise the score. "He wanted no exaggerated animation, such as when animals chase each other or hit each other over the head. He wanted less movement, in keeping with his daily strips." (Sparky: The Life and Art of Charles Schulz. Page 81.)
Mendelson, Schulz, and animator Bill Melendez worked diligently on a story outline as they did not have much time to submit it before the deadline set by John Allen. They heard back from Mr. Allen three weeks after their outline submission that Coca-Cola had agreed to buy the special. The corporation wanted the show ready for airing in early December, 1965. This was a tight deadline which meant the team had only a few months in which to produce the animation, voice track and musical track.
The team set to work immediately. Lee Mendelson and his wife had read Hans Christian Anderson's 'The Fir Tree' to their own children and made the suggestion that something about a tree be included in the special. Mr. Schulz agreed, "We need a Charlie Brown-like tree." Another trendsetting element, the use of children's voices instead of adults trying to sound like children, was requested by Mr. Schulz. The team auditioned dozens and dozens of youngsters for the major roles.
It was essential to Charles Schulz to have the religious aspect of Christmas included in the feature. Mr. Mendelson shares, "This show contains the Midwestern values and tastes of Charles Schulz, both religious and musical." Bill Melendez observed, "A big part of Sparky's personality comes through in 'A Charlie Brown Christmas.'
Since the production of a 1959 Ford television commercial, Bill Melendez was the only animator permitted to work with the Peanuts characters. On page 27 in the Making of a Tradition book, Mr. Mendelson explains: Ten thousand drawings are used in a half-hour of animation for a Charlie Brown special. Twelve drawings are photographed each second to give the illusion of movement. The drawings are first done in pencil, "then copied in ink on an acetate 'cel,' then painted on the reverse side." Bill Melendez and his team created all of the drawings for the Christmas special.
At Mr. Schulz's insistence, the then popular television laugh track was left out. Lastly, the team added the music composer/pianist Vince Guraldi had created. The entire special was finished a mere week before the scheduled original broadcast date.
When the special was previewed by the network executives before the broadcast, they worried "that the show was too slow, too religious, and too subtle for the world of commercial television. With its airing they were silenced. In retrospect, it was daring." (pg. 192—Good Grief). Charles M. Schulz stood by his choices for the special quoted in David Michaelis's 2007 biography, "There will always be a market for innocence in this country." (page 346). Mr. Schulz's belief in America's wishes was confirmed on the night of the original broadcast and beyond! Lee Mendelson wrote in his 1979 book, Happy Birthday, Charlie Brown, "…it was our first show, produced back in 1965, that still seems to have the greatest impact on viewers." (page 31)
Almost half the people watching television in the United States, roughly 15.5 million households, tuned in to CBS on the evening of December 9, 1965, to watch the show. The special finished second in the national television ratings behind the long-running family Western, 'Bonanza'. (page 31) CBS representatives immediately called and ordered four more specials. In 1966, the A Charlie Brown Christmas special won an Emmy for Outstanding Children's Program (Sparky: The Life and Art of Charles Schulz, page 83), along with the George Foster Peabody Award.
Vince Guraldi's sound track album for the television special sold over one million copies and is still one of the most popular holiday albums of all time. Mr. Schulz and his team went on to create forty-five television specials, four feature films, and eighteen Saturday morning shows.
Former curator of the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, California, Jane O'Cain, related that in interviews, Mr. Schulz stated that he was proud of the ground-breaking nature of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'. He cited using children's voices for the characters, the jazz soundtrack, including a religious theme, and the absence of a laugh track as important highlights. There was a personal side to this talented artist, too.
According to Ms. O'Cain, Mr. Schulz loved to buy gifts. She noted that as with many of us, the holiday traditions he practiced changed over time. The museum's director, Karen Johnson, mentioned in our telephone interview that Mr. Schulz loved the holidays with his five children.
Jane O'Cain reported that one of Charles Schulz's most important Christmas traditions was the annual ice show that he produced at the Redwood Empire Ice Arena in Santa Rosa from 1986 until 1999. He enjoyed being a hands-on producer, involving himself in every aspect of the show. He chose the initial themes and worked directly with these talented skaters right up to the last-minute dress rehearsal changes.
Two of the Schulz family daughters, Amy and Jill, performed in these ice shows. Amy appeared in the early shows, while Jill skated in many of the shows and even introduced in-line skating to the shows. Over the years gifted ice skaters such as Scott Hamilton, Dorothy Hamil, Robin Cousins, Toller Cranston, and Charlie Tickner participated in Mr. Schulz's show. After Mr. Schulz's death in February, 2000, the family continued presenting the ice shows until 2003.
The museum's director, Karen Johnson, mentioned in our telephone interview that Charles Schulz loved presenting this ice show because the community of Santa Rosa took the show into their hearts and made it one of their own Christmas traditions. Due to the schedule of the show's performances, the skaters were unable to return to their own homes for Christmas. Instead, they were invited to the Schulz home on Christmas Eve for dinner and a celebration. Mr. Schulz really enjoyed hosting the skaters at his home according to Ms. Johnson.
Author Lee Mendelson shares in his book, A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition, that Charles Schulz once told him, "Charlie Brown is the way I am and Snoopy is the way I wish I could be." In the 2000 book, The Joy of a Peanuts Christmas—50 Years of Holiday Comics!, Charlie Brown is quoted as saying, "Christmas Eve is my favorite day of the year. It makes me feel good about everything." Well, Charlie Brown, your Christmas special makes your fans feel good, too!
In 1964 a book of Christmas sayings entitled, Christmas is Together-Time, was published by Determined Productions, Inc. of San Francisco. By 1967 the book had sold 125,000 copies. Here are a few examples of the sayings that Mr. Schulz penned for the book:
"Christmas is when you hug your little brother."
"Christmas is another box of candied fruit from your Aunt Agnes in California."
"Christmas is waiting for the grown-ups to finish eating so we can open the presents."
"Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone."
Millions of people around world feel Charles Schulz and his team definitely did 'a little something extra' for Christmas when they created 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'. Including the annual viewing of this show in the family's holiday traditions has become a part of life for many families—including mine!
Happy Golden Anniversary, Charlie Brown! Merry Christmas to the Peanuts gang. Thank you for sharing your creative gifts with us, Mr. Schulz.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Works Cited
Gherman, Beverly. Sparky. San Francisco: Chronicle Books. 2010. Print.
Johnson, Rheta Grimsley. Good Grief: The Story of Charles M. Schulz. New York: Pharos Books. 1989. Print.
Mendelson, Lee. Happy Birthday, Charlie Brown. New York: Ballentine Books. 1979. Print.
Mendelson, Lee, with reflections by Bill Melendez. A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition. New York: HarperResource, 2000. Print.
Michaelis, David. Schulz and Peanuts: A Biography. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 2007. Print.
Schulz, Charles M. A Charlie Brown Christmas. New York: Random House, 1965. Print.
---. The Complete Peanuts. 1963-1964. Seattle: Fantagraphics Books, 2007. Print.
---. The Joy of a Peanuts Christmas—50 Years of Holiday Comics! Kansas City: Hallmark Cards, 2000. Print.
* * *
©June McCrary Jacobs, December 2015, December 2017, December 2018. *****************
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO A '12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS' EVENT PRESENTED BY THE READERS & WRITERS OF CLEAN FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP.
YOU'LL NEED TO PLAN AHEAD TO ATTEND BECAUSE YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF THE CLOSED GROUP TO PARTICIPATE. HERE'S THE LINK TO THE PAGE SO YOU CAN SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS TO THE MODERATOR'S THREE QUESTIONS AND BE APPROVED AHEAD OF TIME. LINK TO READER & WRITERS OF CLEAN YOUTH FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP
A photo of my personal copy of the video of'A Charlie Brown Christmas'~In honor of the fiftieth anniversary of the premiere of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' on television on December 9th, 1965, I researched and wrote the following article. I hope you enjoy reading about the Peanuts gang as much as I enjoyed writing this essay.~
My personal collection of Peanuts® ornaments circa 1982.
~A Golden Charlie Brown Christmas~
©June McCrary Jacobs, December 2015, December 2017, December 2018.
December 9, 1965, was the premier airing of a unique television feature developed for children. The golden anniversary of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' will soon be upon us, and many baby boomers have fond memories of the first time he or she watched the animated special that magical evening fifty years ago. These eager viewers had no idea they were watching a groundbreaking chapter in television history.
The anticipation of seeing a new animated feature was great in those days before videos, DVD's, video games and computers. Baby boomers had to make a trip to a movie theater to view full-length movies, and regularly-running television cartoons such as 'Bugs Bunny,' 'Underdog,' and 'The Roadrunner and Wiley Coyote' were not in the same category as this brand new holiday special featuring the Peanuts Gang!
Coca-Cola sponsored the special which was broadcast on CBS and its affiliates at 7:30PM on Thursday, December 9, 1965. There were almost 36 million viewers, and the show was an instant success. Letters poured in to Coca-Cola's office, from adults as well as children, thanking the company for sponsoring such a well-done family show. The show would not have been created had it not been for the inspiration and creativity of the Peanuts comic strip artist, Charles M. Schulz.
Charles Monroe Schulz was born on November 26, 1922, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Two days after his birth, he was nicknamed 'Sparky' after the racehorse 'Spark Plug' in the newspaper comic strip, 'Barney Google.' He served in the Army during World War II. In 1950, Schulz signed with United Feature Syndicate and his strip title of 'Li'l Folks' was changed to 'Peanuts'.
On October 2, 1950, the first Peanuts daily strip was run with the first Sunday strip being published on January 6, 1952. In total, 17,897 strips were fully written, drawn, and lettered entirely by Charles Schulz. (The Complete Peanuts, Introduction by Gary Groth). The final original Peanuts strip ran on Sunday, February 12, 2000. Mr. Schulz died in his sleep just hours before the Sunday papers ran this last strip.
In his book, A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition, author Lee Mendelson relates the history of this innovative Christmas special. After a feature about Charles M. Schulz and the Peanuts gang was the cover story of an April 1965 issue of 'Time' Magazine, Mendelson was approached by John Allen from the McCann Erickson Agency in New York. Mr. McCann wondered if Mr. Schulz would be interested in producing a half-hour Christmas television special for Coca-Cola. (A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition, page 14) Up until this time, Mr. Schulz had hesitated to allow his comic strip characters to be used in this other medium. Therefore, this would be the first time the Peanuts characters would be animated.
In response to learning of the proposal, Mr. Schulz was very specific about which elements he wanted to include—if he agreed to the project. This would be the first Peanuts television special, and Mr. Schulz wanted the show to include the true meaning of Christmas. During their discussion, Mr. Schulz stated, "If we're going to do a Christmas show, then we ought to talk about the true meaning of Christmas . . . maybe have Linus read something from the Bible." (page xii in Forward by Bill Melendez). This idea came to fruition with Linus's recitation of the Christmas story from the Gospel according to St. Luke toward the end of the special.
The remaining requirements placed on the table by Mr. Schulz were the inclusion of scenes with snow and skaters. There would be a Christmas play. A mix of jazz music with traditional music would comprise the score. "He wanted no exaggerated animation, such as when animals chase each other or hit each other over the head. He wanted less movement, in keeping with his daily strips." (Sparky: The Life and Art of Charles Schulz. Page 81.)
Mendelson, Schulz, and animator Bill Melendez worked diligently on a story outline as they did not have much time to submit it before the deadline set by John Allen. They heard back from Mr. Allen three weeks after their outline submission that Coca-Cola had agreed to buy the special. The corporation wanted the show ready for airing in early December, 1965. This was a tight deadline which meant the team had only a few months in which to produce the animation, voice track and musical track.
The team set to work immediately. Lee Mendelson and his wife had read Hans Christian Anderson's 'The Fir Tree' to their own children and made the suggestion that something about a tree be included in the special. Mr. Schulz agreed, "We need a Charlie Brown-like tree." Another trendsetting element, the use of children's voices instead of adults trying to sound like children, was requested by Mr. Schulz. The team auditioned dozens and dozens of youngsters for the major roles.
It was essential to Charles Schulz to have the religious aspect of Christmas included in the feature. Mr. Mendelson shares, "This show contains the Midwestern values and tastes of Charles Schulz, both religious and musical." Bill Melendez observed, "A big part of Sparky's personality comes through in 'A Charlie Brown Christmas.'
Since the production of a 1959 Ford television commercial, Bill Melendez was the only animator permitted to work with the Peanuts characters. On page 27 in the Making of a Tradition book, Mr. Mendelson explains: Ten thousand drawings are used in a half-hour of animation for a Charlie Brown special. Twelve drawings are photographed each second to give the illusion of movement. The drawings are first done in pencil, "then copied in ink on an acetate 'cel,' then painted on the reverse side." Bill Melendez and his team created all of the drawings for the Christmas special.
At Mr. Schulz's insistence, the then popular television laugh track was left out. Lastly, the team added the music composer/pianist Vince Guraldi had created. The entire special was finished a mere week before the scheduled original broadcast date.
When the special was previewed by the network executives before the broadcast, they worried "that the show was too slow, too religious, and too subtle for the world of commercial television. With its airing they were silenced. In retrospect, it was daring." (pg. 192—Good Grief). Charles M. Schulz stood by his choices for the special quoted in David Michaelis's 2007 biography, "There will always be a market for innocence in this country." (page 346). Mr. Schulz's belief in America's wishes was confirmed on the night of the original broadcast and beyond! Lee Mendelson wrote in his 1979 book, Happy Birthday, Charlie Brown, "…it was our first show, produced back in 1965, that still seems to have the greatest impact on viewers." (page 31)
Almost half the people watching television in the United States, roughly 15.5 million households, tuned in to CBS on the evening of December 9, 1965, to watch the show. The special finished second in the national television ratings behind the long-running family Western, 'Bonanza'. (page 31) CBS representatives immediately called and ordered four more specials. In 1966, the A Charlie Brown Christmas special won an Emmy for Outstanding Children's Program (Sparky: The Life and Art of Charles Schulz, page 83), along with the George Foster Peabody Award.
Vince Guraldi's sound track album for the television special sold over one million copies and is still one of the most popular holiday albums of all time. Mr. Schulz and his team went on to create forty-five television specials, four feature films, and eighteen Saturday morning shows.
Former curator of the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, California, Jane O'Cain, related that in interviews, Mr. Schulz stated that he was proud of the ground-breaking nature of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'. He cited using children's voices for the characters, the jazz soundtrack, including a religious theme, and the absence of a laugh track as important highlights. There was a personal side to this talented artist, too.
According to Ms. O'Cain, Mr. Schulz loved to buy gifts. She noted that as with many of us, the holiday traditions he practiced changed over time. The museum's director, Karen Johnson, mentioned in our telephone interview that Mr. Schulz loved the holidays with his five children.
Jane O'Cain reported that one of Charles Schulz's most important Christmas traditions was the annual ice show that he produced at the Redwood Empire Ice Arena in Santa Rosa from 1986 until 1999. He enjoyed being a hands-on producer, involving himself in every aspect of the show. He chose the initial themes and worked directly with these talented skaters right up to the last-minute dress rehearsal changes.
Two of the Schulz family daughters, Amy and Jill, performed in these ice shows. Amy appeared in the early shows, while Jill skated in many of the shows and even introduced in-line skating to the shows. Over the years gifted ice skaters such as Scott Hamilton, Dorothy Hamil, Robin Cousins, Toller Cranston, and Charlie Tickner participated in Mr. Schulz's show. After Mr. Schulz's death in February, 2000, the family continued presenting the ice shows until 2003.
The museum's director, Karen Johnson, mentioned in our telephone interview that Charles Schulz loved presenting this ice show because the community of Santa Rosa took the show into their hearts and made it one of their own Christmas traditions. Due to the schedule of the show's performances, the skaters were unable to return to their own homes for Christmas. Instead, they were invited to the Schulz home on Christmas Eve for dinner and a celebration. Mr. Schulz really enjoyed hosting the skaters at his home according to Ms. Johnson.
Author Lee Mendelson shares in his book, A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition, that Charles Schulz once told him, "Charlie Brown is the way I am and Snoopy is the way I wish I could be." In the 2000 book, The Joy of a Peanuts Christmas—50 Years of Holiday Comics!, Charlie Brown is quoted as saying, "Christmas Eve is my favorite day of the year. It makes me feel good about everything." Well, Charlie Brown, your Christmas special makes your fans feel good, too!
In 1964 a book of Christmas sayings entitled, Christmas is Together-Time, was published by Determined Productions, Inc. of San Francisco. By 1967 the book had sold 125,000 copies. Here are a few examples of the sayings that Mr. Schulz penned for the book:
"Christmas is when you hug your little brother."
"Christmas is another box of candied fruit from your Aunt Agnes in California."
"Christmas is waiting for the grown-ups to finish eating so we can open the presents."
"Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone."
Millions of people around world feel Charles Schulz and his team definitely did 'a little something extra' for Christmas when they created 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'. Including the annual viewing of this show in the family's holiday traditions has become a part of life for many families—including mine!
Happy Golden Anniversary, Charlie Brown! Merry Christmas to the Peanuts gang. Thank you for sharing your creative gifts with us, Mr. Schulz.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Works Cited
Gherman, Beverly. Sparky. San Francisco: Chronicle Books. 2010. Print.
Johnson, Rheta Grimsley. Good Grief: The Story of Charles M. Schulz. New York: Pharos Books. 1989. Print.
Mendelson, Lee. Happy Birthday, Charlie Brown. New York: Ballentine Books. 1979. Print.
Mendelson, Lee, with reflections by Bill Melendez. A Charlie Brown Christmas: The Making of a Tradition. New York: HarperResource, 2000. Print.
Michaelis, David. Schulz and Peanuts: A Biography. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 2007. Print.
Schulz, Charles M. A Charlie Brown Christmas. New York: Random House, 1965. Print.
---. The Complete Peanuts. 1963-1964. Seattle: Fantagraphics Books, 2007. Print.
---. The Joy of a Peanuts Christmas—50 Years of Holiday Comics! Kansas City: Hallmark Cards, 2000. Print.
* * *
©June McCrary Jacobs, December 2015, December 2017, December 2018. *****************
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO A '12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS' EVENT PRESENTED BY THE READERS & WRITERS OF CLEAN FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP.
YOU'LL NEED TO PLAN AHEAD TO ATTEND BECAUSE YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF THE CLOSED GROUP TO PARTICIPATE. HERE'S THE LINK TO THE PAGE SO YOU CAN SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS TO THE MODERATOR'S THREE QUESTIONS AND BE APPROVED AHEAD OF TIME. LINK TO READER & WRITERS OF CLEAN YOUTH FICTION FACEBOOK GROUP
December 7, 2018
~ BOOK BLAST 'FOR THE LOVE OF LAURA BETH' ~
~ BOOK BLAST ~
-- 'FOR THE LOVE OF LAURA BETH' --
A Korean War-Era Historical Romance AUTHOR AUBREY WYNNE~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, AuthorBio, Excerpt & Giveaway~
ABOUT THE BOOK:
For the Love of Laura Beth by Aubrey Wynne
The Korean War destroyed their plans, but the battle at home may shatter their hearts . . .
Laura Beth Walters fell in love with Joe McCall when she was six years old. Now she is counting the days until Joey graduates from college so they can marry and begin their life together. But the Korean War rips their neatly laid plans to shreds. Instead of a college fraternity, Joey joins a platoon. Laura Beth trades a traditional wedding for a quick trip to the courthouse.
The couple endure the hardship of separation, but the true battle is faced when Joey returns from the war. Their marriage is soon tested beyond endurance. Laura must find a way to accept the tragedy thrown in their path or lose the love that has kept them anchored for so long. With a determination that only comes from the heart, Joe relentlessly fights an invisible enemy . . . for the love of Laura Beth.
Praise for For the Love of Laura Beth:
~Warmth, compassion, heartache, faithfulness and more are emotions you will experience as you read this. I was completely immersed in this Korean War era tale, the historical details making the story come alive. Aubrey Wynne did an awesome job with this Historical book. ~Thank you Aubrey Wynne for a very beautifully written story!!~An emotional read about the life, fears, and love during the Korean War! Aubrey Wynne begins each chapter with a thought-provoking quote. As a Midwesterner, who often visited Chicago in the 1950s, this romance includes well-researched historical details about Chicago, the era, and journalism. Aubrey Wynne blends history with a nicely paced full of family dynamics love story.
EXCERPT:
“Son, you’ve got some mail.”
The tone of his father’s voice sent a chill through Joey. He looked over his shoulder, straightened up, and smacked his head on the hood of the Crosley station wagon. Rubbing his scalp then wiping oily hands on his overalls, he took the envelope with an official-looking seal in the corner. Joe held it as if it were poison.
“Do you want me to open it, son?”
He shook his head, the pulse beating rapidly in his neck. With trembling fingers, he tore at the paper. The words blurred as he sunk onto the bumper of the pickup. “It’s a conscription notice,” he whispered, looking into his father’s terrified eyes. “I’m being drafted.”
“It’s my fault.” Max let out a moan and lowered himself onto the bumper. “If I hadn’t spent your college tuition, you’d be in school right now.”
“It’s nobody’s fault, Pa. You served your time, and now it’s my turn.” He waved the letter in the air. “Maybe we’ll end up with matching limps.” It was a bad attempt at humor, and he wanted to take the words back as soon as they left his mouth. Unlike many of his friends, Joe did not have any romantic ideas about soldiering. His father had been straight up with him about the horrors of war.
“I just pray you come back, boy, and you don’t have to live through what I did.” The lines on his father’s face seemed to have deepened in the last five minutes. He swiped his palms at his eyes and squeezed Joe’s arm. “When do you go?”
“It says I report for my physical January 2 at ten o’clock.” Maybe he wouldn’t see active combat. He wasn’t chicken, but his father still screamed at night once in awhile. His mother had said they were night terrors left over from WWII. “I do have a skill, Pa. I’m sure they need mechanics.”
“That’s true, son. Maybe they’ll have you keep those jeeps running for the generals.” He forced a chuckle. “Go on and get out of here now. It’s Friday night and you’ve got a purty little gal to take to the movie.”
An awkward silence ensued as both men stared at the floor. Laura Beth. How would he tell her? It was bad enough they had to postpone their wedding, but now this? It was just plain bad luck. And they’d all had enough of that for one year. The thought of the tears welling up in those clear, blue eyes made his blood cold. She’d been their pillar these past months, and now he would break her heart.
“I’ll get cleaned up, I guess.” Joe headed to the door then stopped. Without turning around he said, “She’s really gonna flip, Pa. I think telling her might be as hard as going.”
In a thick voice, Max tried to offer some comfort. “The only thing worse than war was losing your mother, but Laura Beth is a strong young woman and loyal as they come. She won’t give up on you, and it wouldn’t be fair not to let her know right away. So go on now and get ‘er done.”
Bestselling and award-winning author Aubrey Wynne resides in the Midwest with her husband, dogs, horses, mule, and barn cats. She is an elementary teacher by trade, champion of children and animals by conscience, and author by night.
Obsessions include history, travel, trail riding, and all things Christmas. Her short stories, Merry Christmas, Henry and Pete's Mighty Purty Privies have won Readers Choice Awards. Dante's Gift and Paper Love received the 2016 Golden Quill, Aspen Gold, Heart of Excellence and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence.
In addition to her Chicago Christmas novellas, Aubrey will release two more Regency romances in 2019. Once Upon A Widow series will officially launch in March 2019, the Wicked Earls’ Club will release again just in time for the holidays.
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$50 Blast Giveaway Winner’s choice of a $50 Amazon Gift Code or $50 in PayPal Cash Ends 1/2/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. The giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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A Korean War-Era Historical Romance AUTHOR AUBREY WYNNE~Post Includes: Book Spotlight, AuthorBio, Excerpt & Giveaway~
ABOUT THE BOOK:
For the Love of Laura Beth by Aubrey Wynne
The Korean War destroyed their plans, but the battle at home may shatter their hearts . . .
Laura Beth Walters fell in love with Joe McCall when she was six years old. Now she is counting the days until Joey graduates from college so they can marry and begin their life together. But the Korean War rips their neatly laid plans to shreds. Instead of a college fraternity, Joey joins a platoon. Laura Beth trades a traditional wedding for a quick trip to the courthouse.
The couple endure the hardship of separation, but the true battle is faced when Joey returns from the war. Their marriage is soon tested beyond endurance. Laura must find a way to accept the tragedy thrown in their path or lose the love that has kept them anchored for so long. With a determination that only comes from the heart, Joe relentlessly fights an invisible enemy . . . for the love of Laura Beth.
Praise for For the Love of Laura Beth:
~Warmth, compassion, heartache, faithfulness and more are emotions you will experience as you read this. I was completely immersed in this Korean War era tale, the historical details making the story come alive. Aubrey Wynne did an awesome job with this Historical book. ~Thank you Aubrey Wynne for a very beautifully written story!!~An emotional read about the life, fears, and love during the Korean War! Aubrey Wynne begins each chapter with a thought-provoking quote. As a Midwesterner, who often visited Chicago in the 1950s, this romance includes well-researched historical details about Chicago, the era, and journalism. Aubrey Wynne blends history with a nicely paced full of family dynamics love story.
EXCERPT:
“Son, you’ve got some mail.”
The tone of his father’s voice sent a chill through Joey. He looked over his shoulder, straightened up, and smacked his head on the hood of the Crosley station wagon. Rubbing his scalp then wiping oily hands on his overalls, he took the envelope with an official-looking seal in the corner. Joe held it as if it were poison.
“Do you want me to open it, son?”
He shook his head, the pulse beating rapidly in his neck. With trembling fingers, he tore at the paper. The words blurred as he sunk onto the bumper of the pickup. “It’s a conscription notice,” he whispered, looking into his father’s terrified eyes. “I’m being drafted.”
“It’s my fault.” Max let out a moan and lowered himself onto the bumper. “If I hadn’t spent your college tuition, you’d be in school right now.”
“It’s nobody’s fault, Pa. You served your time, and now it’s my turn.” He waved the letter in the air. “Maybe we’ll end up with matching limps.” It was a bad attempt at humor, and he wanted to take the words back as soon as they left his mouth. Unlike many of his friends, Joe did not have any romantic ideas about soldiering. His father had been straight up with him about the horrors of war.
“I just pray you come back, boy, and you don’t have to live through what I did.” The lines on his father’s face seemed to have deepened in the last five minutes. He swiped his palms at his eyes and squeezed Joe’s arm. “When do you go?”
“It says I report for my physical January 2 at ten o’clock.” Maybe he wouldn’t see active combat. He wasn’t chicken, but his father still screamed at night once in awhile. His mother had said they were night terrors left over from WWII. “I do have a skill, Pa. I’m sure they need mechanics.”
“That’s true, son. Maybe they’ll have you keep those jeeps running for the generals.” He forced a chuckle. “Go on and get out of here now. It’s Friday night and you’ve got a purty little gal to take to the movie.”
An awkward silence ensued as both men stared at the floor. Laura Beth. How would he tell her? It was bad enough they had to postpone their wedding, but now this? It was just plain bad luck. And they’d all had enough of that for one year. The thought of the tears welling up in those clear, blue eyes made his blood cold. She’d been their pillar these past months, and now he would break her heart.
“I’ll get cleaned up, I guess.” Joe headed to the door then stopped. Without turning around he said, “She’s really gonna flip, Pa. I think telling her might be as hard as going.”
In a thick voice, Max tried to offer some comfort. “The only thing worse than war was losing your mother, but Laura Beth is a strong young woman and loyal as they come. She won’t give up on you, and it wouldn’t be fair not to let her know right away. So go on now and get ‘er done.”
Bestselling and award-winning author Aubrey Wynne resides in the Midwest with her husband, dogs, horses, mule, and barn cats. She is an elementary teacher by trade, champion of children and animals by conscience, and author by night.
Obsessions include history, travel, trail riding, and all things Christmas. Her short stories, Merry Christmas, Henry and Pete's Mighty Purty Privies have won Readers Choice Awards. Dante's Gift and Paper Love received the 2016 Golden Quill, Aspen Gold, Heart of Excellence and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence.
In addition to her Chicago Christmas novellas, Aubrey will release two more Regency romances in 2019. Once Upon A Widow series will officially launch in March 2019, the Wicked Earls’ Club will release again just in time for the holidays.
Website * Facebook * Twitter * PinterestInstagram * Newsletter * BookBub * Amazon
$50 Blast Giveaway Winner’s choice of a $50 Amazon Gift Code or $50 in PayPal Cash Ends 1/2/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. The giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway
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