Miranda A. Uyeh's Blog, page 48

Book Review & Giveaway! ~ Five Glass Slipper (Five Cinderella Stories!)

It’s a tour stop!

Rooglewood Press hosted a Cinderella themed writing contest last year where five stories picked and published into a collection titled, Five Glass Slipper. I’m happy to not only post a review of this lovely piece, but to host a one-question interview of one of the authors. Come with me now, please!

About the Collection

ONE BELOVED STORY, FIVE EXCITING WRITERS

A COLLECTION TO CHERISH

What happens when Cinderella is so painfully shy that she cannot bear the idea of attending the royal ball? Or when the slipper fits . . . but on the wrong girl? What happens when Cinderella is determined to oust an imposter prince from her rightful throne? Or when she is a cendrillon miner working from a space station orbiting a cthonian planet? What happens when Cinderella, a humble housemaid, is sent with a message for a prisoner trapped in a frightening fairy circus?

Here is Cinderella as you have never met her before, wearing glass slippers and off on unforgettable adventures!

“What Eyes Can See” by Elisabeth Brown

Painfully shy Arella begs her stepmother to let her stay home from the prince’s ball. But kindly Duchess Germaine is determined that her beautiful stepdaughter should be presented at court along with her own two daughters. So, dressed in a gorgeous gown and a pair of heirloom slippers, Arella catches the eye of the crown prince . . . and finds her life suddenly far more complicated than she ever desired.

 

“Broken Glass” by Emma Clifton

The slipper fits . . . but on the wrong girl! Rosalind never once danced with Prince Marius at the ball, for she is in love with his brother Henry. If only Rosalind and Marius would stop bickering long enough to invent a scheme, perhaps the three of them can find the real mystery lady. But they must work quickly, for dark deeds are afoot, and the kingdom is poised on the brink of disaster.

“The Windy Side of Care” by Rachel Heffington

Alisandra is determined to have her rights. She knows that she is the king’s secretly dispossessed daughter, the true heir to the throne. Prince Auguste is an imposter, and if she plays her cards right, Alis will prove it to the world! That is, if charming Auguste doesn’t succeed in winning her heart before she gets her chance . . .

“A Cinder’s Tale” by Stephanie Ricker

It’s a dangerous life, yet Elsa wouldn’t trade this opportunity to work at Tremaine Station, mining cendrillon from the seething surface of planet Aschen. Nevertheless, when a famous deep space explorer and his handsome son dock their starcraft at the space station, Elsa finds herself dreaming of far galaxies beyond Aschen’s blistering heat. There is no time for dreaming, however, when danger threatens the space station, and Elsa and her fellow miners are tested to the limits of their courage.

“The Moon Master’s Ball” by Clara Diane Th ompson

After her terrifying experience there several years ago, the one place young housemaid Tilly longs to avoid is Bromley’s Circus. But when kindly Lord Hollingberry begs her to deliver a message to the mysterious Moon Master hidden away among the circus dwellers, Tilly can’t refuse . . . and finds herself ensnared in a web of enchantment cast by the loathsome Mrs. Carlisle and her beautiful goddaughter.

My Rating

4 out of 5 (stars)

My Review

The first thing I noted about each story was that none followed the typical Cinderella tale. Each story was distinct and different. I dare say that, perhaps, these “differences” are what made them standout, and are therefore the reasons they were picked over others in the Five Glass Slipper Contest. As long as most or all of these plot elements were clearly present—a Cinderella, “a prince”, the pair of glass slippers (or something else that clearly took its place), a fairy being, a stepmother, and two sisters—it was up to the author to decide what to do with them. The characters were interchangeable and could take any form, and the resultant story could be as different from the original Cinderella, as night and day.

My favorite was What Eyes Can See, and I’m glad I got to interview the author to learn what inspired her piece which clearly showed that true love should have nothing to do with looks and material things.

Broken Glass was as humorous as it was thrilling, and I loved that the end set the premise for Beauty and the Beast (at least I think it did!).

The Windy Side of Care was a fast-paced story with a strong and determined heroine who met her match in a mischievous and humorous hero, so that there was never a dull moment for the reader.

A Cinder’s Tale showed the rise of a crew from a poorly respected position to one that was everyone’s dream, because of the strength of friendship. Makes you wonder if the Cinderella was simply only the heroine or the entire crew—definitely something to think about!

The Moon Master’s Ball was as suspenseful as it was magical. It portrayed a heroine that not only triumphed over her worst fear, but saved a hero and restored happiness to those who matter to her.

Overall, the writing was very good and distinct. I can see why these five stories made it to the finals. These ladies are clearly authors we should look out for.

*Although I offer this review to the public, it is my opinion and simply that. A thank you to Rooglewood Press and freelance publicist, Amber Stokes, for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Now, lets find out what inspired Betsy to write What Eyes Can See!

Me: Helloooo Elisabeth! It’s great to have you here! What inspired the unique theme of your story?

Elisabeth: Hullo Miranda! Thanks for having me! My inspiration…hum, that’s rather hard. Dirty dishes? (I actually did come up with the basics of my plot while washing dishes. Maybe it was the repetitive action of scrubbing, maybe it was the cloying smell of the grapefruit dish soap…who knows.) On a more serious note, I think that I wove a lot of my own dreams into the theme of What Eyes Can See.  I get a little disenchanted with the whole “love at first sight” supposition—harrumph—and I wanted to make a love story that I could actually believe in. Okay, okay. It’s still a little far-fetched. But hey, that’s what dreams are for.

Me: I agree with you! Dreams are the substance of our writing a lot of times. Well done, Elisabeth, and thank you for stopping by!

Available Now!

The Five Glass Slipper is available in paperback and kindle. The collection will be on sale in kindle format for only $.99 for the duration of the blog tour, June 23rd-28th!

“Cinderella of the Ball” Giveaway!

Here’s your chance to be Cinderella of the ball! One lucky winner will receive a paperback copy of Five Glass Slippers, several Cinderella-themed items (including a bookmark crafted by Belle on a Budget, a journal, and a DVD copy of the Disney movie), as well as special gifts handpicked by a few of the collection’s authors (a glass slipper cookie cutter with recipe, freeze-dried astronaut ice cream, and an Apple Tree Inn cup and saucer). This giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only. Simply join via a Rafflecopter giveaway form.

You can also find this post on facebook.

About the Authors

Elisabeth Brown

Elisabeth Brown has always loved words. The third of seven children, she enjoyed being homeschooled through her senior year of high school, and is now studying piano performance at Appalachian Bible College. When she’s ignoring the fact that she should probably be practicing more or doing Greek homework, you’ll find her sewing, baking, reading, singing along to basically any musical ever created, hiking through the woods, or laughing at incredibly silly puns.

What Eyes Can See is her first published story, but she also rambles at www.metaphoricalcello.wordpress.com.

Emma Clifton

Emma Clifton has been thinking up stories since before she knew how to type them out. Reading books such as the Chronicles of Narnia, The Door Within Trilogy, and Redwall inspired her to take her writing more seriously. Though her rigorous homeschool education keeps her busy, she also enjoys sewing, reading, and spending time with her family in beautiful Northern Virginia.

Emma blogs at www.peppermintandprose.wordpress.com.

Rachel Heffington

Rachel Heffington is a Christian, a novelist, and a people-lover. Outside of the realm of words, Rachel enjoys the Arts, traveling, mucking about in the kitchen, listening for accents, and making people laugh. She dwells in rural Virginia with her boisterous family and her black cat, Cricket.

In February 2014, Rachel released her debut novel, Fly Away Home, and is excited to collaborate on Five Glass Slippers with her fellow authoresses. She hopes to release her second full-length novel and first mystery (Anon, Sir, Anon) in autumn 2014. For more on Rachel, her current projects, and writing in general, visit her on her blog: www.inkpenauthoress.blogspot.com.

Stephanie Ricker

Stephanie Ricker is a writer, editor, and tree-climber. She adores the cold and the snow but lives in North Carolina anyway, where she enjoys archery, hiking, canoeing, and exploring with friends.

Stephanie’s fiction has been published in Bull-Spec, a magazine of speculative fiction, and in four consecutive editions of The Lyricist, Campbell University’s annual literary magazine. She was the editor of the 2009 edition of The Lyricist, which won first place in the American Scholastic Press Association Contest. Stephanie’s non-fiction has been published in an assortment of medical magazines and newsletters, and her senior thesis on Tolkien was published in the 2009 issue of Explorations: The Journal of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity for the State of North Carolina.

You can find out more about Stephanie and her writing on her blog: www.QuoththeGirl.wordpress.com.

Clara Diane Thompson

Clara Diane Thompson lives in the swamps of Louisiana with her loving family, dashing dog, and a very confused frog that resides in the birdhouse outside her window. Aside from writing she enjoys playing guitar, singing, Broadway plays (particularly The Phantom of the Opera), ballet, tea with friends, and long BBC movies. An enchanted circus may or may not appear occasionally in her back yard.

You can find out more about Clara and her writing on her blog: www.claradianethompson.blogspot.com.

 To read the Savvy Saturday Weekly paper, go here.

Filed under: Author Interview, Book Review, Giveaway Tagged: Broken Glass, Cinderella, Clara Diane Thompson, Elisabeth Brown, Emma Clifton, Five Glass Slipper, Rachel Heffington, Stephanie Ricker, The Moon Master's Ball, The Windy Side of Care, What Eyes Can See

My Roller-Coaster Writing Journey ~ Brenda Anderson

Friends!

It is my pleasure to introduce to you a lovely lady whom I discovered not so long ago—Author, Brenda Anderson! She is presently hosting a blog tour for her book, Chain of Mercy, and has stopped by today to tell us the story of her writing journey. A truly interesting read, I tell you! I LOVE stories like this, because in some ways they mirror mine and encourage me on my writing journey. I, too, have recently published a book that doesn’t exactly fit the “regular” Christian profile, and I honestly don’t think I’m going to change my mind about my writing style in the near future. Also, I hope to post a review of this book later on.

People, sit back and enjoy this LOVELY piece!

—

Just for the record, I love roller coasters. I love the speed, the highs and lows and twists and turns. I love the adrenaline rush, the air time, the dark places, and even the moments of fear. I enjoy it because I know I’m safe, and that I will arrive in one piece at my destination.

My writing journey has been very much like a roller coaster ride. It’s been a long ride, having stepped on it back in 2005. Actually, I’ve been writing all my life, but it was in 2005 when I fulfilled my dream of writing a novel.

That first novel was a joy to write. The words flowed so quickly, I could barely take time away from my computer, and a mere 3-1/2 months after I first put fingers to keyboard, I had completed a 130,000 word story. I was to learn later that 130,000 words was excessive for my genre, 30,000+ excessive. But I also realized that I essentially had two stories in one. So I cut the second story references from book #1, and voila! my first manuscript was tighter, and I was a third of the way through book #2. It didn’t take me long to finish that book either.

I joined writers groups, read books, took writing courses, made connections with other writers, joined critique groups, all with the intention of improving my craft. But then came the process of pitching to agents and editors. I learned my craft wasn’t the problem—my story content was. One editor told me my characters were too messed up, they should never get together, and that I should re-write the story eliminating all the issues. Well, that wasn’t going to happen.

I also learned that male protagonists don’t sell well within Christian fiction, and those first two novels focus on the hero as opposed to the heroine. Many industry professionals made the same claim—they wouldn’t even look at the book.

So, not to be daunted, I decided to write a prequel to those first two books, a work of women’s fiction about the younger sister of the protagonist from books one and two. I received more traction with this novel, even semi-finalling in a writing contest. But, it’s not a light book, again I had characters with messy lives, and I was told readers want an escape. They didn’t want to be reminded of how tough life is.

Fine. So I told myself, “Then I’ll just write a sweet romance instead.” I even completed two romances, and, wouldn’t you know, that first romance was a finalist in a national writing contest, and suddenly, within one week, I was talking with three agents! And I even received a “good” rejection from a major publisher. For that week, I was on top of the world.

A few weeks later, I had hit bottom. Turns out my sweet romance wasn’t quite sweet enough. You see, my heroine has an addiction. To cigarettes. And that specific addiction plays an integral role in the story. I was told that since Christians don’t smoke (really?), that the Christian reader won’t be able to identify with my main character.

At this point in my writing career, I had received 30+ rejections, I found no interest for the gritty stories I want to tell, I couldn’t even sweeten up my romances enough to satisfy, so I pretty much threw my hands in the air and asked God, “Can I quit?” Not writing, but pursuing publication.

God’s answer, of course, was “No!”

So, I kept pressing on. And it was roughly a year later when I ran across Winslet Press, a new, small press that created the most amazing book covers. The press is Christian owned, but don’t specifically publish Christian fiction. I was intrigued, so I queried them about that very first book I wrote. A few hours later, I had a request for my proposal. After tweaking the proposal to fit Winslet Press specs, I sent it off. Four hours later I had a note from the editor who wrote, “I bet the CBA (Christian Book Association) says it’s too risqué and the ABA (American Booksellers Association) says it’s too inspirational…” Along with a request for the full manuscript. Yes! Finally someone *got* me. A few weeks later I had signed a four-book contract with Winslet Press.

And now that first novel, Chain of Mercy, is in print, with my prequel, Pieces of Granite, scheduled to release on September 16, 2014. I’m buckled into a new writing roller-coaster ride, and I’ve no doubt it will be equally as wild.

This post is also on facebook.

About the Book

Genre: Contemporary, strong romantic elements, family drama

Pages: 360

ISBN: 978-0985723576

Ebook ASIN: B00JUBTGVO

Publishing Company: Winslet Press

Cover Artist: Winslet Press

They forgave him for the accident that killed their son, but he will never forgive himself.

Manhattan businessman Richard Brooks was at the top of the world, drunk with success, wealth, and women. Until one disastrous evening, when his world came crashing down.

Richard flees to Minneapolis where he repairs ancient boilers instead of solving corporate problems, and he’s determined to live the solitary life he now deserves.

But Executive Sheila Peterson has other plans for the handsome custodian. Richard appears to be the perfect match for the no-strings-attached romance she’s after, but she soon discovers that he’s hiding more than the designer suits in his closet.

Find the Book!

Amazon | B&N

About Brenda Anderson

Brenda S. Anderson writes gritty, life-affirming fiction that offers hope and reminds the reader they’re not alone. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, and is currently President of the ACFW Minnesota chapter, MN-NICE. When not reading or writing, she enjoys music, theater, roller coasters, and baseball (Go Twins!), and she loves watching movies with her family. She resides in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area with her husband of 26 years, their three children, and one sassy cat.

Her debut novel, Chain of Mercy, Book #1 in the Coming Home series, came out in April of 2014, and Pieces of Granite, the prequel to Chain of Mercy, is scheduled to release on September 16, 2014!

Find Brenda!

Website | Blog I | Blog II | Facebook | Twitter | Google+ | Goodreads | Pinterest | Amazon

To read the Savvy Saturday Weekly, go here.

Filed under: Guest Post, Publishing, Stories Tagged: Brenda Anderson, Chain of Mercy, Coming Home #1, Coming Home Series

Sunny Sunday Poetry ~ In Your Hands

Dear God,

My heart is in Your hands,

It’s not big like the vast lands,

But can be full of love that truly stands,

And Your Word—it accepts and understands,

Like lovely music played by bands,

Please keep its dreams numerous like sands,

Because they are safest in Your hands.

This post is also on facebook.

Filed under: Poetry, Spirituality Tagged: In Your Hands, Sunny Sunday Poetry

Book Review & Author Scoop! ~ The Seahorse Legacy by Serena Chase

It’s a tour stop! Today, not only will I be publishing a review of this long anticipated book, but I’ll be hosting author, Serena Chase. Please join us below for a little chat!

Miranda: Hello Serena! It’s great to have you visit us today! Welcome to To Be A Person! Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?


Serena: I live in a small rural community in Iowa with my husband Dave, our daughters Delaney & Ellerie, and our dog, Albus. I review books, write features, and interview authors for two blogs: Edgy Inspirational Romance and USA Today’s Happy Ever After, and I am a volunteer coach for the Color Guard of my local high school’s marching band. 

My pet peeves include: bar soap, not being given a straw at a restaurant, spiders (more of a phobia), drivers who do not understand right-of-way, tipping my coffee cup and finding it empty, driving in snow/ice/sleet, and the fact that pastries and chocolate contain fat and calories. 

Some of my likes: Panera orange scones and cinnamon crunch bagels, action movies, chocolate (especially dark chocolate with sea salt!), Dr. Pepper, my Keurig coffee maker (fave k-cups are Jamaica Me Crazy, Caribou Signature, and Caribou Daybreak), avocados, green smoothies, 80s pop/rock, THE OCEAN (specifically the clear, jade green water on certain beaches on the Gulf Coast), strawberries, Texas Roadhouse, chocolate, Aveeno face and hair products, using straws, READING GREAT YA NOVELS, did I mention chocolate?, Sunchips, yoga pants, backyard fire pits, Mary Kay’s Sheer Blush Lipstick topped with Berry Tart Lip Gloss, s’mores made with Rolos instead of Hershey bars, authentic Mexican food–sans the cheese, 1960s soul music, and pressing my face into my husband’s neck and inhaling his cologne. I consider chocolate-covered pretzels to be the perfect food. Nutritionists, however, might disagree. 

Oh, and I spend most of my time writing novels, which is why you invited me over. (Thanks, btw!)

Miranda: Welcome! Always good to get to know you better! The ‘Eyes of E’veria Series’ is a unique one–and I love every single book! Could you tell us what inspired you to create the series?


Serena: Believe it or not, it all started about eight years ago when my daughter was in 4th grade and wanted to read Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine. It had been a long time since I had read it and wanted to make sure it was age-appropriate, so I made her wait while I re-read it. When I finished, I thought, “I wonder if I could re-invent a fairy tale?” After thinking about it for a while, I decided to try my hand at novel writing with one of my childhood favorites, Snow White & Rose Red (not to be confused with Snow White.) I thought it was a safe choice. Since it is a lesser-known fairy tale, I figured fewer people would call me to the carpet if I screwed it up! After many, many rewrites, that initial “I wonder” became two books, The Ryn and The Remedy. As the minor character Cazien developed, however, I knew he needed his own story, so I wrote it!

Miranda: Oh, believe me, you didn’t screw it up. So glad you followed that route! The character that piqued my interest and curiosity the most is Cazien de Pollis. Could you tell us what inspired you to create him as you did?–all habits and mannerisms included.


Serena: Ah, Cazien. In the early drafts of The Ryn, he was a rather dark villain who betrayed Rynnaia and gave her the creeps while simultaneously charming her. His nickname, Caz, even means “vain”, which is rather fitting for a handsome pirate, in my opinion; and Julien did accuse him of that flaw! But the longer Cazien hung around, the more I realized he was a noble sort of villain and I wanted to develop him into something more. In between drafts of The Ryn and The Remedy, I began writing what I thought would be a prequel to series–Cazien’s story from age 15-17, which is a reinvention of The Adventures of Robin Hood. It is, as of yet, unfinished, but perhaps I will finish it, someday! But it served as great, if time consuming backstory prep work for this endearing, enticing pirate teen. In that story, the Seahorse Pirates and Cazien’s Legacy took form  and I incorporated that information, however briefly, into his few-but-memorable scenes in the final drafts of The Ryn and The Remedy. When the books finally published, Cazien quickly became a reader favorite!

In The Seahorse Legacy we get to know him much better. Cazien is nineteen years old with black hair, ice blue eyes, and a “soul patch” beneath his lower lip (though it isn’t referred to as such in the book, that’s what it is!) He is on the “short end” of average height (not exceedingly tall like most of the men–knights–we’ve met in E’veria thus far), and has a lean-muscled physique. He is the illegitimate child of a crooked E’verian Duke (now deposed) and the previous Seahorse Heir, his mother, Captain Pollis de Ledo, deceased, from whom he inherited his position upon her death. He also inherited her Andoven communication gifts (which can range from telepathic to telekinetic.) Cazien has a tense relationship with his near-lookalike half-brother, Roeg, and often suffers an eye twitch when Roeg is present. When he is troubled or thoughtful, he tends to flick his soul patch with his finger. Oh, and as far as his taste in young women? He prefers curvaceous brunettes. (Erielle is a petite, slender blonde whose most notable curves are in her biceps.)

Miranda: I’m SO glad he eventually turned out to be a good guy. Love him better this way! When you read the E’veria books, it is without a doubt that they are Christian-themed. What message do you hope your readers will walk away with?


Serena: In ‘The Ryn’, the lead character (Rynnaia) was coming to God from a place of distrust and unbelief. My prayer for her story (the first two books) was that readers would see the character of God in a fresh way and they would realize that He is in the business of romance: he longs to woo their hearts to Him. The Seahorse Legacy is a different sort of faith journey because both lead characters (Cazien and Erielle) swore their fealty to The First (became believers) as children and have been raised in faith-practicing homes. Their belief is solid, but they sometimes take Divine Care for granted; both are very willful and self-reliant–and both must learn to yield to the will of The First, though in entirely different ways. Even though their story happens within a fantasy realm, I think a lot of modern Christians will relate to Cazien and Erielle’s flaws and internal struggles. I hope readers see, through these characters, that even when it feels like God is far away, it is never Him who imposes the distance–and He will always answer our call when we speak it from the true, realized need in our hearts.

Miranda: After reading the book, I get exactly what you mean. There are also other lovely lessons I gleaned from it, which I shared in my review. What’s next after The Sea Horse Legacy? Might we have a peek? ;)


Serena: Cazien and Erielle’s story will continue in The Sunken Realm, which will really get into the nitty gritty of the retelling of the classic Grimm fairy tale, The Twelve Dancing Princess (there are only hints of that–as well as nods to a few other tales!–in The Seahorse Legacy.) The story is still under construction, however, so no peeking allowed! (it will release in 2015)

Miranda: Oh, dang!!! Finally, I’m curious, so I’ll ask–Edgy Inspiratonal Romance Blog is a lovely and wonderful addition to the blogosphere! What led you and Joy to set it up?

Serena: Joy was already an experienced blogger, as the founder of the Edgy Inspirational Romance blog (EIR), when I met her through author Michelle Sutton’s Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers online community. http://edgychristianfictionlovers.ning.com/   EIR was a game-changer for a lot of Christian readers because it provided a voice for those who were becoming jaded against Christian/Inspirational fiction. These readers wanted deeper, gutsier stories than the safe, unrealistic, bonnet-book-heavy shelves of Christian Book Stores offered them. When the EIR blog grew beyond what Joy could handle on her own (Joy is a full-time elementary teacher with a husband and kids!), she asked me to come on board. Apparently she was fond of my snarky sarcasm, and that was the tone she was trying to set at the time. 
 
Our goal at EIR has always been to promote the work of Christian romance authors (and now also mainstream YA authors) who craft their stories with artful edginess. We’re not asking authors to provide gratuitous content, which is what some critics seem to think the term “edgy inspirational romance” means (and, sadly, what a few Christian authors have published. We refer to those sorts of books as being “edgy for the sake of edgy”–and we are not fans. We prefer when novels are edgy for the sake of story.) As bloggers at EIR, we are simply seeking positive, life and/or faith-affirming fiction that is grounded by the failings of human nature and not afraid to take characters to hard places by dark roads when necessary. By “edgy”, we mean that a novel is crafted with both intelligence and heart, portraying people, passion, and pain in a real way without the sugar-coating, Christianese, “Sunday School-approved” style of prose that was (and still is, to some extent) so very prevalent  among CBA publishers’ offerings. We don’t care if the book is historical romance, rom-com, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, or speculative fiction: we just want it to resonate as “true.”
 
As an author, I hope those are the sorts of stories I write, as well.
 
As far as why EIR was “set up”–well, you would have to ask Joy, EIR’s founder, for the whole story. She is currently on an extended sabbatical from blogging, but I am so grateful that she invited me on the journey, because EIR has been a huge blessing to me and has served as the springboard for my career as an author. 
 
Thanks for hosting me on your blog, Miranda!

Miranda: You’re most welcome, Serena!

Now, on to the book!

~ About the Book ~

a Pirate

bound by a centuries-old oath

a Knight

determined to prove her calling

a Legacy

demanding surrender

As Keeper of the Seahorse Legacy, Cazien de Pollis is a King among pirates, divinely appointed to dispense justice on the seas. Bound by the sacred oath of a long-dead ancestor, he must fulfill a contract to wed the green-eyed Oracle’s Daughter named therein — or risk losing everything he and his people hold dear. But at nineteen, with the identity of his betrothed only recently revealed, Cazien resents the contract — and the urgency within him to see it satisfied.

Erielle de Gladiel returned from the quest for the Remedy, changed. Not only are her formerly-blue eyes now a brilliant shade of green, but she must don gloves to hide inky evidence that her prophetically-bestowed title, the Oracle’s Daughter, demands more from her than the task already completed. Erielle’s dearest-held dream is realized when she is knighted by her King, but unbeknownst to her, that very honor jeopardizes the prophesied purpose to which she and Cazien have been called.

Just as Cazien summons the courage to collect his bride, dark rumors and darker deeds crawl up the coasts, calling its guardians, the Seahorse Pirates, into action — and Cazien away from Erielle. But even though the Oracle’s Daughter knows nothing of the contract to which she has been consigned, Cazien’s enemies have somehow learned of his interest in Erielle. And if they reach her before his ancestor’s weighty oath is executed, the Seahorse Legacy will be forfeited . . . and darkness will be given reign.

Subtly paying homage to several classic tales including Peter Pan, Robin Hood, The Little Mermaid, Much Ado About Nothing, and even The Three Little Bears, THE SEAHORSE LEGACY begins an epic re-imagining of the classic Grimm fairy tale, The Twelve Dancing Princesses, which will conclude in Eyes of E’veria, Book 4: THE SUNKEN REALM.

~ Genre ~

Christian/Fantasy/Romance

~ My Rating ~

5 out of 5 (stars)

~ My Review ~

After reading the first two books—The Ryn and The Remedy—in the Eyes of E’veria Series, I thoroughly enjoyed them and became a fan. So The Seahorse Legacy naturally fell into my top priority To Read list and I wasn’t disappointed. Chase certainly has a talent for this thing called Fantasy.

The story is more complex than the first two in the series, especially in emotional depth. Cazien de Polis, the hero, may have appeared to an onlooker as simply mischievous, and maybe arrogant and imposing, but there was more to this young man and what went on in his head. I loved that despite his young age, he was so wise and able to manage the kinds of responsibilities he had. And like any other human being, he struggled under the weight (even though he didn’t let on) and managed to fulfill an important legacy.

The heroine, Erielle de Gladiel, was a feisty delight to follow. I more or less chuckled every time she found herself in a situation. As opposed to Cazien, she had a lot to learn when it came to handling her responsibilities. They were both very strong and lovable characters, and I kept anticipating how/when they’d eventually fall for each other.

As much as I loved King Jarryn E’veri, he seriously annoyed me in this book, and in my opinion, got in the way of things. I personally hold him responsible for a lot of things that went wrong in the story.

From the beautiful castles on land, to the vast seas and majestic creatures like the seahorses, I was immensely impressed as well as entertained by the fantasy elements in this story. I truly can’t describe it all! I’ll leave it for readers to explore for themselves.

There are a lot of lessons to be gleaned from The Seahorse Legacy, but I’ll mention just a few: when you clearly hear from God, it’s NOT wise to let ANYONE (whether king or not) to get in the way of what you’re absolutely certain you should do. You have no idea the kind or extent of damage it could cause in your life and in the lives of others. Quick obedience to God is very important. This was the case between Cazien, Jarryn, and Erielle—Cazien knew what he was supposed to do; he let Jarryn interfere and, Erielle got seriously hurt in the end. Secondly, as much as we may sometimes hate to admit it, but there are such things as responsibilities, and even expectations from those around us—some of which should be taken seriously. When we ignore them, we not only insult the people that bestowed them upon us, but we dishonor God, also, and then eventually hurt ourselves. This was the case with Erielle. Part of the reason she was hurt in the end was because she didn’t pay as much attention to her responsibilities as she should have. She not only wanted things done her way, but insisted that her way be acceptable, as inappropriate as it was. She let the fact that she was perceived as different get in the way of becoming successful in her duties.

Like I said, this story is more complex than the first two, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! My only regret was swiping the last page only to discover that there wasn’t more. Yes, people! There’s a cliffhanger. I’m soooo looking forward to book #4, The Sunken Realm!

*Although I offer this review to the public, it is my opinion and simply that. My thanks to Serena Chase for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

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~ About the Author ~

A life-long lover of fairy tales, Serena Chase is the author of THE RYN (3/26/13) and THE REMEDY (April 2013) Together, these two novels comprise an expanded re-imagining of the classic Grimm fairy tale, Snow White & Rose Red and are the first two books in the Eyes of E’veria series.

A frequent contributor to USA Today’s Happy Ever After blog and  Edgy Inspirational Romance, Serena lives in Iowa with her husband, two daughters, and a white goldendoodle named Albus. She has been known to live vicariously through her hair, however, so don’t be too surprised if she looks a tad different from one day to the next. We all have our vices.

Connect with Serena on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, PINTEREST, & GOODREADS

Filed under: Author Interview, Book Review Tagged: Eyes of E'veria #3, Eyes of E'veria Series, Serena Chase, The Remedy, The Ryn, The Seahorse Legacy

Book Review~ The Movement of Crowns Series by Nadine C. Keels

About the Series

The Movement of Crowns

At the point when kingdoms’ ideas of humanity differ… The nation of Diachona is celebrating the twentieth birthday and rite of passage for Constance, the Diachonian king’s daughter and heir. Yet, the pause for festivity doesn’t erase collective doubts about Constance’s aspiration for a place with the men on the National Council, nor does it eliminate fears roused by oppressive threats from a neighboring, powerful empire. Amid increasing rumors of war and personal misgivings about her own future, Constance deems this an inopportune time to be falling in love with one Commander Alexander. Will Providence keep them all through international tensions and the changing of times, or is Diachona watching its territory in vain?

The Movement of Rings

A time to remember what lies deeper than one’s fears… The Mundayne empire has seen years of prosperity under the rule of King Aud, a man of war known the world over for his ruthlessness. Naona, a high-spirited imperial servant who holds Aud’s favor, occupies herself with pulling pranks on her peers around the king’s estate, but the time for laughter spoils when the citizens of Munda begin to oppose increasing taxation. After meeting the princess of Diachona, Naona finds herself having to choose between maintaining loyalty to her king and becoming a personal ally of another nation. With the rise of unrest in Munda, can Naona’s heart survive intact: intact enough, even, for an unforeseen chance at love with a foreign man?

The Movement of Kings

 

The order of things, the nature of succession, and a nation that must march on… At a time of political and cultural uncertainty, the charge of the Eubeltic Realm has been passed over to a young monarch known for his intelligence, agility, and brooding ways, as well as the “way” he has with vibrant ladies at court. Can this inexperienced king handle the current rise of domestic and colonial crises, the bereavement of his family, and his curious attraction to a councilman’s unassuming daughter, or is everything in his untried hands on the verge of falling apart?

 

Genre

Christian/Fantasy

My Rating

4 out of 5 (stars)

My Review

The Movement of Crowns

This story centers on Constance, the first woman heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Diachona. This isn’t the only change that has come to the kingdom in recent times, so events don’t go down well with the royal council and the people in general, but only in a polite sort of way. The story lets us see how Constance grows into the awareness of her people’s expectations, but through the love and support of her father, the king, she is able to achieve far more than the people would expect from any male heir. She even helps her father’s council device a solution for an impending doom that awaited the kingdom. Not only does Constance discover herself, but the people recognize her potential as the future Queen of the kingdom.

I loved that King Matthias remained unwavering in his decisions, which not only helped Constance grow into a confident woman, but was key in saving his kingdom from trouble. Issues like the place of a woman, and whether she should be given power were satisfactorily taken care of, but in a subtle manner that didn’t overwhelm the plot. Also, it was clear that patience and steadfastness were the virtues that triumphed, when certain characters refused to allow culture and politics to stand in the way of the greatness that eventually came to Diachona.

The Movement of Rings

Here, the setting changes, but the events occur simultaneously with the story in book #1. It centers on a young woman, Naona, the favorite concubine of King Aud of Munda, a neighboring kingdom to Diachona and its biggest threat in book #1. Naona happened to be assigned to Princess Constance when the princess visited Munda, and Naona, through her brief association with the princess, came to see that indeed there was more to life like she often dreamed. And before Constance left for Diachona, they both promised to keep in touch. The encounter between the two forever changed the course of the story.

It was interesting to follow Naona. Even though her life seemed bound to a certain course. She didn’t lose hope of a life of love, children, and family. Her strong will and firm belief in God certainly led her down an unlikely path which resulted in not only her emancipation, but that of her people, too. What struck me the most was that she decided to use her position in the palace—no matter how low-placed—to achieve a mighty feat. Of the three stories, this one is the most peculiar.

The Movement of Kings

I was sorry to see certain characters exit the story.

The hero, Alexander, is the most eccentric I’ve ever encountered in a book world. It was interesting to follow how the author intentionally crafted him this way. There is a plainness to the overall story that lets you see the beauty of ordinary living through the eyes and thoughts of a young man trying to find his way in the midst of a lot of criticism. At the end of the day, he discovers love with the most unlikely person and learns that the very thing that makes him different, is what makes special and standout. It also serves him well as the king in discovering the solution to a problem in his kingdom. Unlike book #1 & #2, which are fairytale-like, this book has some solemn moments. But it doesn’t end on a negative note. In fact, it is positive in a realistic sort of way.

Note: There are parts of the story (talking about the entire series) that is written in a narrative manner, as opposed to delving into details, so that it somewhat appeared rushed. I fully understand the author’s intention to inform the reader and fill in certain gaps in the story. This, however, didn’t disturb the story much or take away the reading enjoyment.

This is a wonderfully written book. The author has a strong authority and sense of language which makes her prose style unique in a modern Shakespeare sort of way. I will certainly be looking out for other books by Keels!

*Although I offer this review to the public, it is my opinion and simply that. Thank you, Nadine C. Keel, for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

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About the Author

Nadine. A French name, meaning, “hope.” 
Spreading hope to her readers and listening audiences, author, editor, and speaker Nadine C. Keels of Seattle, Washington is well-known for The Song of Nadine, the powerful lyrical poetry seen in four of her several books and found on her spoken word album, Hope. Lyricized. Drawing from her lifelong passion for highly enjoyable and transformational fiction, Nadine has written a number of novels and novellas, including Love Unfeigned and The Movement of Crowns Series. In response to inquiries from other aspiring authors, Nadine put together a simple reference entitled Write Your Genius, Genius!: A Rather Quick Guide to Book Writing. Being the founder of Prismatic Prospects, a communication company based in Seattle, Nadine has served as editor and co-editor for a number of titles, and it is her aim to be a proven wellspring of inspiration for creativity and innovation in the marketplace. 


 
Filed under: Book Review Tagged: Nadine C. Keel, The Movement of Crowns, The Movement of Crowns Series, The Movement of Kings, The Movement of Rings

Cover Reveal! ~ Five Enchanted Roses by Rogglewood Press

Hello, Hellooo!

So excited to present this cover!

Five Enchanted Roses will be the second fairytale collection by Rooglewood Press! The first collection, Fairy Glass Slipper, five retellings based on Cinderella will be available for sale June 14th. Do support Rooglewood Press and these brilliant authors by grabbing a copy, please!

Now, on to the cover …

Rooglewood Press is delighted to introduce their second fairy tale novella contest—

Five Enchanted Roses

a collection of “Beauty and the Beast” stories

The challenge is to write a retelling of the beloved fairy tale in any genre or setting you like. Make certain your story is recognizably “Beauty and the Beast,” but have fun with it as well. Make it yours!

Rooglewood Press will be selecting five winners to be published in the Five Enchanted Roses collection, which will be packaged up with the gorgeous cover you see displayed here. Perhaps your name will be one of the five displayed on this cover?

All the contest rules and information (how to enter, story details, deadline etc.) may be found on the Rooglewood Press website. Just click HERE and you will go right to the page.

Rooglewood Press’s first collection, Five Glass Slippers, is available for pre-order now and will be released on June 14. Do grab yourself a copy and see what these talented writers have done with the timeless “Cinderella” tale!

Also, feel free to copy and paste the button on your blog if you’re a blogger. You can find it on my sidebar. Simply click on it, and it will take you to the competition page. The URL is: http://www.rooglewoodpress.com/fairy-tale-collections

Cover credit goes to Julia Popova, “ForestGirl.” You can find out more about this gifted artist on her website: www.forestgirl.ru

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Filed under: Cover Reveal, Stories Tagged: Fair Glass Slipper, Five Enchanted Roses, Rooglewood Press

Book Review & Giveaway! ~ Still by Eniola Prentice

It’s a tour stop!!

About the Book

A NOVEL

A broken soul …

… an alcoholic …

… a certifiable genius …

… a Christian man…

… and a secret that will destroy the bonds of their friendship.

When self-proclaimed atheist Fadesola, gets into medical school she believes that it’s a fresh start of sorts for her. Until she discovers her class mate is charming and handsome Tayo Smith, a man she encountered in a violent moment years ago. This revelation shatters Fadesola’s already fragile emotional state but hope comes where she least expects it. A seemingly innocent friendship with Tayo’s friend, Ladi, slowly develops into a smoldering relationship with both afraid to acknowledge their mutual feelings. Things get even more complicated when Nikky, Fadesola’s classmate and friend, ignores her desperate warnings and decides that Tayo is the man she is meant to be with. However, within the complexities of this friendship these flawed individuals will experience God’s redemptive grace in a setting each believed his love would never find them. Still, the first book of a four part series is a coming of age story about navigating through medical school in the first year, complete with hilarious hook ups and breaks ups, legendary parties and incessant studying, and experiencing the triumph of success and disappointment of failure.

Eniola Prentice, in her extraordinary debut novel has written a gripping and thought provoking story that examines Christianity, mental illness, suicide and alcoholism.

Available on Amazon!

| Kindle |

Genre

Christian/NA/Contemporary

My Rating

4 out of 5 (stars)

My Review

My Official Endorsement:

“A spell-binding prose of love, pain, and self-discovery that will endear you to its characters, and leave you entertained and pondering.”—Miranda A. Uyeh, 2014 INSPY Award Judge and Author of To Die Once: Child of Grace #1.

This is the story of four medical students: how their personal stories overlap into each other’s, and in the end, how their personal issues evolve and play out into what becomes struggles that they have no choice but to take to God.

I liked that despite the fact Prentice told this story from the first person POV (point-of-view), she handled it well with more than four characters. It was surprisingly easy to follow and keep pace with. And although I initially feared that I may have to deal with plenteous medical jargon, that wasn’t the case at all. The plot, though set in the United States, was flavored with the Nigerian cuisine, customs etc, making it a richly, cultural story.

Although the story was clearly Christian, there wasn’t any definite theme that I could pick out … yet, but I sense the entire story, which will be played out throughout the series will eventually make it evident. One thing the author makes clear, though, is that none of the characters ended up in Stedman Medical School by accident. God set that time for each of them and wanted them there for a reason and a plan bigger than their individual stories.

I’d like to point out that my favorite character was Ladi. He seemed to be the most sensible and level-headed in the bunch.

One thing, though: some character placements didn’t quite appear realistic to me. They may be dismissed by other readers because it could be termed negligible … it’s all a matter of opinion. It doesn’t, however, hurt the story in anyway.

Overall, this was a soft, tender, yet thorny story of love, hurts, mistakes, hopes, and dreams neatly and beautifully put together by Prentice. I hope she continues to write because, she certainly is a talented writer. Well done, Prentice!

*Although I offer this review to the public, it is my opinion and simply that. My appreciation to the author for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Giveaway!

To celebrate the release of the novel, there is a three week giveaway of a signed copy of the novel, a 40-dollar Amazon gift card, AND a mystery gift!! You can enter via a Rafflecopter giveaway form. Just follow the link!

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About the Author

Eniola Prentice was born in Lagos Nigeria where she began to pen her stories as early as nine years old, inspired by an eclectic group of writers. Her budding writing career was put in the back burner as she pursued her dream of becoming a medical doctor, completing her undergraduate degree in Chicago, Illinois and her medical degree in Washington, DC. However in the third year of medical school inspired by the holy spirit or the voices in her head (she would prefer to blame God for this one) and the unique and inspiring stories of friends that became her family in medical school she began to write her debut novel and series, Still. She hopes that her writing compels challenges, inspires people and draws people to the Christian God’s redeeming love. You can connect with her by visiting eniolaprenticewrites.blogspot.com.

Find Prentice!

| Twitter | Blog | Facebook | Google+ |

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Filed under: Book Review, Endorsement, Giveaway, Stories Tagged: Book Review, Eniola Prentice, Still

Learning Something New & Beautiful …

There are those times in your Christian walk when it seems you’re so sure of all the answers, you know where you’re going, and you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be—life couldn’t be better, you believe. In fact, how do non-Christians exist outside this awesome faith in God that has gifted you with such a blessed life, you ask.

Then, there are those days when the more you think about the questions of life, the more the answers elude you. You realize you don’t know as much as you thought you did. The very principles that stood as the foundation of your faith and protected the world you live in are falling apart right before your eyes and, you’re more confused and frustrated than ever before. Besides, where’s that breakthrough you were so darn sure was just around the corner anyway? Could it be that those things you believed aren’t true after all? And that the promises you heard God whisper to your spirit—the very ones that no one knows about, but you and God—were simply a figment of your imagination?

You’re suddenly not sure of anything anymore. The worst yet, you’re afraid to hope—it’s too painful when it turns out into one more disappointment you have to tuck away.

You look outside of you, it’s chaos—goodness! You’ll crash any minute now! Are you really going to make it?

Then you look inward, and God’s still voice whispers, “Wait. Have some more faith. It’s just a while longer. You’re not so far away from the promise, you know. In fact, you’re actually closer to it than you think.” And you go, “God, is that You? Are You really still here or are my going crazy?” Sigh. “I’m such a sinner for not having enough faith. Please forgive me! I promise to try harder. Why even are You still talking to me?”

… You’re not so far away from the promise, you know … you’re actually closer to it than you think.

Really?

It doesn’t feel like it. Or look like it. At all!

But I’ve learned something new …

In these times when it seems like all the doors have been shut and I’m in the dark hall way waiting for the next one to open, God is, indeed, very close by. Closer than you think even. He’s tearing down old walls and building new pillars—sturdy ones that will preserve you for/during the great things to come, so that when they do, the awesomeness of it all won’t overwhelm you and subsequently destroy you. It is important that when a reward comes, it doesn’t master you, but instead, God remains sovereign in your life. So, God takes the time to prepare you by stripping off every bit of thing that will fuel pride and foolishness so that you remain humble and give glory to Him in the end. You also need your knees and elbows strengthened to carry the load of responsibilities that will come with the privileges—unto whom much is given, much is required! Don’t you want to hear God say to you someday, “Well done, thou faithful servant?” I do! Think of it: isn’t that how God has dealt with you in the past? Was there ever a new level of faith or achievement you migrated to that God didn’t faithfully prepare you for it?—probably with trials prior to it? And the older and more mature you become in faith, the farther He stretches the trials to limits that you’re sure at that moment will make you snap! But in the end, you don’t. When you look back you know you’re stronger for it, and, even grateful that He made you go through it, because, suddenly, you can see the beautiful, long-lasting benefits of it all.

So buckle up! When those very testy times come around, don’t panic or be afraid. Have a better attitude towards them, for it’s a time to grow in faith for the very next breakthrough just around the corner … a time to learn something new and beautiful!

Blessings!

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Filed under: Christianity, Faith Testimony, Inspirational, Personal Development, Spirituality Tagged: Christianity, Faith, God, Hope, Inspirational, Jesus, Spirituality

Sunny Sunday Poetry ~ A Prayer Take

Oh Lord, on me claim Your stake

For my life is Yours to take

Like a gardener with a firm rake

Use me till I’m smooth as flake

Not for my righteousness but Jesus’ sake

Let my faith not be a fake

But instead, my soul be peaceful as a lake.

Filed under: Poetry Tagged: Sunny Sunday Poetry

Book Review & Awesome Giveaway! ~ Resistance (Ilyon Chronicles, Book #1) by Jaye L. Knight

It’s a tour stop!

About the Book

“Don’t you know? Animals like you have no soul.”

Could God ever love a half-blood all of society looks upon with such fear and disdain? Jace once believed so, but when a tragic loss shatters the only peace he’s ever known, his faith crumbles as the nagging doubts he’s tried to put behind him descend on his grieving heart. With them come the haunting memories of the bloodstained past he longs to forget, but can never escape.

Taken from home at a young age and raised to serve the emperor, Kyrin Altair and her twin brother live every day under a dangerous pretense of loyalty. After her unique observation skills and perfect memory place her into direct service to the emperor, Kyrin finds herself in further jeopardy as it becomes increasingly difficult to hide her belief in Elôm, the one true God.

Following the emperor’s declaration to enforce the worship of false gods under the penalty of death, many lives are endangered. But there are those willing to risk everything to take a stand and offer aid to the persecuted. With their lives traveling paths they never could have imagined, Jace and Kyrin must fight to overcome their own fears and conflicts with society as they become part of the resistance.

Available for purchase on Amazon from May 20th!

View book extras at www.ilyonchronicles.blogspot.com.

Genre

Christian-themed Fantasy Fiction

My Rating

5 out of 5 (stars)

My Review

I started this book not knowing what to expect, but with much anticipation. Perhaps, because I had so much fun trying to unlock the story from the book cover (even though I didn’t get it completely right this time)?

I can tell you, however, that this book didn’t disappoint at all. Knight put together this story with the firm authority of a writer who knew what she was doing, both in literary skill, and in plot style.

The character, Jace, was an interesting fellow, so much so that when his story was paused to introduce Kyrin, I groaned. But, oh! I didn’t know what was coming! I grew to love her, too, and didn’t mind her interruption after all.

Kaden, Kyrin’s twin, was another wonderful addition to the plot. I adored his protectiveness and sense of responsibility towards his sister. Who wouldn’t want a brother like that? And his concluding remark in the scene where he came face-to-face with the emperor is where I cheered him the most!—such spunk and courage, which brings to mind, Trask, another fella that made my day!

Notice the unusual, but lovely names? My favorite is Jace.

There are a lot of lovely characters in this story, but the four I mentioned above left their mark in my heart. Sam piqued my interest enough to want to see him and learn more about his race in the books down the series. Also, this plot includes other intelligent races similar to humans—and very well thought out and put together—making an interesting mix. The plot didn’t allow much divulging into each race, except for humans, and a little of Ryriks, but I suspect that will happen later down the series. However, Knight took the time to write briefly on the history, culture etc of each of the races at the end of the book, which I truly appreciated as it gave greater depth and meaning to the story, so that I understood it better. I encourage anyone reading the book to follow through and read the text on the races. It’s very helpful and wraps up the book nicely.

The theme of the book was amazing. It dealt with faith, persecution, and the struggles believers have when they’re faced with tribulation. One thing I loved about this story is that it shows God’s (Elom—another unique in this story. Likely crafted from the name, Eloheem, meaning Creator God, or God, the Creator) faithfulness in not only saving the lives of His children from evil hands, but also granting strength and courage to those who face suffering and death. This story also dealt with the struggles of being different and rejected/hated because of it. Through Jace and Kyrin’s story of triumph, we see that NO ONE created by God is a mistake, accident, or beyond loving.

This is a wonderfully well put-together story. I loved every bit if it, and I’m looking forward to the rest in the series. I’ve started many series, but never bothered to finish some. But this one, I’m making it a point to do so.

*Although I offer this review to the public, it is my opinion and simply that. My thanks to the author for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Giveaway!

Immerse yourself in the world of Ilyon! Fill out a Rafflecopter giveaway form for a chance to win an autographed copy of Resistance (Book 1 in the “Ilyon Chronicles” series), a Resistance-inspired necklace crafted by the author (Jaye L. Knight), a Better Homes “Warm Rustic Woods” candle, and a wolf paw leather bookmark from Lodgepole Leathercraft. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.

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About the Author

Jaye L. Knight is a 25-year-old independent author with a passion for writing Christian fantasy and clean NA (New Adult) fiction. Armed with an active imagination and love for adventure, Jaye weaves stories of truth, faith, and courage with the message that even in the deepest darkness, God’s love shines as a light to offer hope.

Jaye is a homeschool graduate and has been penning stories since the age of eight. She was previously published as Molly Evangeline. You can learn about her latest writing projects at www.jayelknight.com.

To read the Savvy Saturday Weekly paper, go here.

Filed under: Book Review, Giveaway Tagged: Ilyon Chronicles Book #1, Jaye L. Knight, Molly Evangeline, Resistance