Candice Sue Patterson's Blog, page 9

My New Book!

I'm tardy in announcing this, and for that I apologize. Last month, I signed a contract with Pelican Book Group for my debut novel How to Charm a Beekeeper's Heart. This story is a 2012 ACFW First Impressions finalist and a 2014 Seekerville Pitch Perfect winner. This story has truly been a labor of love, and I couldn't be more excited to see it in print (and e-book).

Here's a sneak peek...

Isn't this cover stunning? Set in the fictional town of Summerville, Maine, Mt. Desert Island, beekeeper Huck Anderson is reunited with Arianne Winters when he inherits the building her bridal shop occupies. He's prepared to evict his tenant so he can open a sporting goods store. Instead, a life-threatening injury sidelines Huck, and Arianne turns his plans upside-down. Now the key to his building isn't the only thing Huck wants back.


Author Jericha Kingston says, "Candice Sue Patterson delivers another sensational romance for readers of Christian Fiction. Awash with compassion, Patterson lets us walk in the boots of one without Christ, in the high heels of one trusting Christ, and in the hearts of both."


Look for How to Charm a Beekeeper's Heart, coming soon!

In Firefly Valley by Amanda Cabot

She's lost her dream job--But has she found the man of her dreams?



Marisa St. George is devastated when she is a victim of downsizing and has no choice but to return to the small Texas town where she grew up. Though it's a giant step backward, she accepts a position as business manager at the struggling Rainbow's End resort. The only silver lining is Blake Kendall, a new guest who is making her believe in love at first sight. But will her dreams of happily-ever-after be turned upside down when she discovers who he really is?


Publisher: Revell Books, 2015
Cover Design: Peter Gloege | LOOK Design Studio
Cover Photo: Aimee Christenson


My Review

Like the first fireflies of summer, this story brings light to the darkness, brings promises of things to come, and is delightful while it lasts. 

Marisa St. George became successful despite her rough upbringing. So when her employer downsizes, forcing her to return to her hometown of Dupree, Texas, she accepts--a little begrudgingly--a position as business manager at Rainbow's End resort. Blake Kendall--AKA Ken Blake--has lost his creativity. With a deadlines looming, he grasps at straws, doing everything he can to regain his muse. When Blake discovers his friend, Greg, is getting married in Texas at Greg's newly owned resort, Blake heads to Dupree, hoping a change of scenery will renew his spirit. What he doesn't expect is the enchanting Marisa St. George. 

As Marissa's past returns to haunt her, will she forgive those who've wrong her and move on with her life? Can Blake keep his secrets from Marisa and continue his career? 

I recommend In Firefly Valley to anyone looking for a great summer read. I gave this book 4 stars. 


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With both parents avid readers, it's no surprise that Amanda Cabot learned to read at an early age. From there it was only a small step to deciding to become a writer. Of course, deciding and becoming are two different things, as she soon discovered. Fortunately for the world, her first attempts at fiction were not published, but she did meet her goal of selling a novel by her thirtieth birthday. Since then she’s sold more than thirty novels under a variety of pseudonyms. When she’s not writing, Amanda enjoys sewing, cooking and – of course – reading.
Visit Amanda's website at https://www.sff.net/people/amanda.cabot/.

Eye of the Storm

Image courtesy of George Stojkovic
freedigitalphotos.netThe last month has been eventful for our family, to say the least. We've had enjoyable times together, cheering at ball games and track meets, working as a team around the farm. We've also had times of devastation, where an unexpected life event sweeps in like an F-5 tornado and leaves so much debris you don't know where to begin cleanup. Sometimes it takes the tornado to make us appreciate the clear skies, as we tend to take our days for granted. The storm forces us to slow down and reflect, perhaps enlightens us to much needed changes.

I'm blessed to know the One who can calm the storm, the One who holds tomorrow. 
During our difficulty...     Read the rest of this article at Quid Pro Quills.  


~Candice posts twice a month at Quid Pro Quills, a blog she shares with her writing partners-in-crime. For more articles like this one, author chats, and insight into the crazy life of a writer, visit their website. 

A Love Like Ours by Becky Wade

Former Marine Jake Porter has far deeper scars than the one that marks his face. He struggles with symptoms of PTSD, lives a solitary life, and avoids relationships.

When Lyndie James, Jake’s childhood best friend, lands back in Holley, Texas, Jake cautiously hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds. Lyndie is tender-hearted, fiercely determined, and afraid of nothing, just like she was as a child. Jake pairs her with Silver Leaf, a horse full of promise but lacking in results, hoping she can solve the mystery of the stallion’s reluctance to run.

Though Jake and Lyndie have grown into very different adults, the bond that existed during their childhood still ties them together. Against Jake’s will, Lyndie’s sparkling, optimistic personality begins to tear down the walls he’s built around his heart. A glimmer of the hope he’d thought he’d lost returns, but fears and regrets still plague him. Will Jake ever be able to love Lyndie like she deserves, or is his heart too shattered to mend?


Publisher: Bethany House, 2015
Cover Design: Jennifer Parker
Cover Photography: Mike Habermann Photography, LLC


My Review
An inspiring journey of beauty from ashes. These characters had my heart from the first chapter and proved how God can take our fragile lives and repair us to reflect His glory. 

Jake Porter is one beautiful disaster. For eight years he's suffered from PTSD, after an IED explosion took the lives of three of his men in Iraq. His thoroughbred racehorses and Whispering Creek Ranch are the only things motivating his dark days and even darker nights. Then Lyndie, his childhood best friend, returns to Holley, Texas, and forces Jake to see the world under a new light. As they pass their days working together to solve the mystery of Silver Leaf's apprehension to race, Jake catches a glimpse of all the things he's missing out on, the life he could lead--if he deserved it.  Though Lyndie's specialty is nursing wounded things back to health, Jake's wounds are seemingly irreparable. But God....

I recommend this book to anyone looking for a fresh author who's gifted with insight into the human heart. A Love Like Ours will appeal to horse lovers, as well as readers who're searching for a strong, yet clean, romance. 

I gave this book 5 stars!

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Becky's a California native who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and settled in Dallas.  She published historical romances for the general market before putting her career on hold for several years to care for her three children.  When God called her back to writing, Becky knew He meant for her to turn her attention to Christian fiction.  She loves writing funny, modern, and inspirational contemporary romance!  She's the Carol Award and Inspirational Reader's Choice Award winning author of My Stubborn Heart, Undeniably Yours, Meant to Be Mine, and A Love Like Ours. Visit Becky at www.beckywade.com.

Together With You by Victoria Bylin

Sometimes the most unexpected love can be exactly what a heart needs...



When a Lost Child warning blasts over the mall's PA system, toy store manager Carly Mason finds the little girl playing with a stuffed rabbit. Something about five-year-old Penny Tremaine is different. An ex-social worker, Carly recognizes that Penny suffers fetal alcohol effects, and a piece of Carly's own past suddenly confronts her. Never again will Carly become involved with a client. The risks are far too great. But something about Penny--and Penny's handsome father--tugs at Carly's heart. Before she has time to think it through, she agrees to a much-needed job as a nanny. 
Dr. Ryan Tremaine knows he messed up his life. But this summer he will redeem himself. With his ex-wife remarried and on a trip far away, his two teenage sons and Penny are living under his roof full time. Ryan is dedicated to his sink-or-swim list, a plan to reconnect with his children. The first step: recruiting Carly Mason to be Penny's nanny. Ryan never anticipated being so drawn to Carly, an attraction Carly seems to fight as much as he does. Could Carly be the missing piece that helps his family stay afloat, or will their blossoming romance only complicate things further?



Publisher: Bethany House, 2015Cover Design: Paul HigdonAuthor is represented by the Steele-Perkins Literary Agency


My ReviewA tender journey of faith, forgiveness, and redemption. Bylin's characters are captivating, and her writing engaging. Romance readers will enjoy this unique story line. 
Dr. Ryan Tremaine is scrambling to pick up the pieces of his life. His broken marriage has not only jeopardized his relationship with his sons but has also affected his daughter's health. One night of bad judgement caused Penny to be born with FASD--a disorder that makes everyday tasks difficult for Penny. 
A chance encounter brings Carly Mason into the Tremaine household. Ryan is grateful for a nanny, but as the summer passes, he discovers there's more to Carly than meets the eye. 
I recommend this book to anyone who believes in second chances and fresh beginnings. I gave this book 4 stars!
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Victoria Bylin is a romance writer known for her realistic and relatable characters. Her books have finaled in multiple contests, including the Carol Awards, the RITAs, and RT Magazine's Reviewers' Choice Award. A native of California, she and her husband now make their home in Lexington, Kentucky, where their family and their crazy Jack Russell terrier keep them on the go. Learn more at her website: www.victoriabylin.com.

Every Bride Needs a Groom by Janice Thompson

Somewhere in a sea of tulle and taffeta, satin and crepe, Katie Fisher needs to find a key ingredient of the perfect wedding--the groom. 


Small-town girl Katie Fisher is planning her wedding. Sure, her boyfriend hasn't managed to pop the question just yet, but that doesn't mean she shouldn't enter a contest in "Texas Bride" magazine to win the dress of her dreams, right? But when her boyfriend breaks up with her and takes a job in another town--the very same day Katie wins her dream dress--her world is turned upside down. Should she claim her prize? And will the hunky former pro-basketball player who runs the swanky Dallas bridal shop--yeah, you read that right--catch on to her humiliation if she does?

Publisher: Revell, 2015Cover Design: Studio GearboxCover Photography and Photo: Julie Line/Big Event StudiosAuthor represented by MacGregor Literary Agency

My ReviewFun, light-hearted, witty. Thompson will take you on an unusual journey through Texas where family is #1, lost loves are found, and the Baptists and Presbyterians finally agree on something. 
Katie Fisher has been mentally planning her wedding for years. Though her boyfriend hasn't proposed yet, she's sure he will any day and enters the Texas Bride essay contest, winning a custom-made gown of her dreams. What she doesn't expect is her boyfriend to dump her for the big city. 
She arrives at the bridal shop for her consultation with the designer, prepared to forgo the gown when she meets the handsome Brady James--pro-basketball star on hiatus and the bridal shop's new manager.  As if his masculinity in a sea of white frills isn't awkward enough, Brady turns out to be the designer's son. How will Katie ever reveal her secret now?
I recommend this book to anyone who adores weddings and bridal shows, a light humorous read, or enjoys expecting the unexpected. 
I gave this book 4 stars! 

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Janice Thompson lives in Spring, Texas, where she leads a rich life with her family, a host of writing friends, and two mischevious dachshunds. She does her best to keep the Lord at the center of it all. You can find out more about Janice at www.janiceathompson.com or www.freelancewritingcourses.com. 

Author Chat with Jill Kemerer

Let me introduce you to author Jill Kemerer. Her debut novel Small-Town Bachelor is available now at online retailers. Jill writes inspirational romance novels with love, humor and faith. A full time writer and homemaker, she relies on coffee and chocolate to keep up with her kids’ busy schedules.

Besides spoiling her mini-dachshund, Jill adores magazines, M&MS, fluffy animals and long nature walks. She resides in Ohio with her husband and two children.  Jill loves connecting with readers, so please visit her website www.jillkemerer.comand find her on Facebookand Twitter.







Small-Town Bachelor

A Place to Call Home  When Reed Hamilton arrives in Lake Endwell for a family wedding, he expects to do his part as best man then head back to the big city. But when a tornado postpones the wedding, the town is in shambles and Reed is injured. Thankfully maid of honor Claire Sheffield offers him one of her cottages to recuperate in.
Dedicated to her family and her dream job at the zoo, Claire is all about roots. She's this city slicker's opposite, yet as they help the town rebuild, Reed is captivated by her stunning looks and caring ways. He can't ask Claire to leave the life she loves for him, but he also can't imagine ever leaving her behind…




Thanks for joining me today, Jill!
Thank you for having me. 
What inspired you to write Small-Town Bachelor?
Years ago a teacher’s wife at my children’s school worked for the zoo. Their backyard was next to the school parking lot, and I started chatting with her. She told me she was caring for one of the zoo’s otters for a week or so because the little guy wasn’t adjusting well to his environment. This concept—taking an otter home—fascinated me, and, I have to admit, I think river otters are the cutest things ever. I knew my heroine, Claire, would be caring for otters in my book.
What was the biggest challenge you faced when writing this story?
My biggest challenge is always writing lovable characters with realistic reasons why they can’t fall in love with each other. I get emotional as they struggle to accept they’re meant to be together.
What surprised you when writing this story?
I was surprised at how much I related to Claire’s spiritual journey. She has a hard time trusting God has something wonderful planned for her. I have a hard time trusting that too sometimes, but God is always surprising me in the best way.
Who’s your favorite character, and why?
Oh, Candice, how can you ask me that? I love them all! I love Claire because she’s genuine and giving. But the hero, Reed, is probably my favorite. He has deep wounds from his childhood, and I’m really proud of the decisions he makes in this book.
Where can we purchase Small-Town Bachelor?
 Small-Town Bachelor is available in both paperback and digital formats. It will be on store shelves late March through April, and it’s available for order from all major retailers. For a full list of links, click on my book page for SMALL-TOWN BACHELOR.

Thanks for stopping by, Jill!
Nice chatting with you!


~Feel free to leave any comments or questions for Jill, as she'll be stopping by throughout the day. 

Roadblocks

There’s nothing more frustrating than an unexpected detour, especially if you’re pressed for time. It may only take you off the path by a few blocks or it could be several miles. I’m guilty of turning down the wrong road and reaching a dead end. When you’re in the country, there’s not always a yellow warning sign.

What about our path in life? The road we travel to our goals and dreams. Perhaps an unfamiliar area God has led us to. Sometimes we hit road blocks here, too. When this happens, we’re so inclined to think that Satan is resisting our progress, doing everything he can to make us trip and stumble. But what if Satan isn't the one at work? 
What if it’s God?
Numbers 22 is the account of Balak’s fear against the Israelites because of their large population. He heard what the Israelites had done to the Amorites, and worried they would capture, slay, and take over Moab as well. That fear propelled Balak to send for Balaam--a sorcerer known for his effective curses and blessings--in hopes that Balaam would curse the Israelites. But God told Balaam not to go, so Balaam refused Balak. But Balak didn’t give up easily. He pursued Balaam’s help again, promising riches and status. Though God had already told Balaam not to go, this time he went. 
While traveling with the princes of Moab, Balaam’s donkey started misbehaving. First, the animal refused to stay on the path, then he crushed Balaam’s foot against a wall, and, when all else failed, the donkey laid down. This angered Balaam. He struck the donkey and threatened to kill it. Offended by this action after all his years of faithful service, the donkey asked Balaam why he was being abusive.
Instead of running away screaming because his donkey spoke, Balaam answered. Then God opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the path, sword drawn. 
It wasn’t Satan blocking Balaam’s path, it was the hand of God. You see, Balaam thought if he traveled to Moab and told Balak in person that he refused to curse the Israelites it would be okay. Except God had already told him not to go. The angel on the road was not only sent there to protect the Israelites, but God was also protecting Balaam from falling into temptation. Now the story goes on, but I won’t touch on that today.  
As we travel this road God put us on, it’s easy to convince ourselves we know how to make the right choices on our own without His guidance, even if done subconsciously. And sometimes we misinterpret God’s voice.
So the next time you hit a roadblock, stop and consider it might not be Satan fighting against you, but it might be God trying to keep you from detouring to a place you don’t really want to go. 


~photo credit: digitalart/freedigitalphotos.net

Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey

Book #5 in the Alaskan Courage series

Growing up, goody-two-shoes Kirra Jacobs and troublemaker Reef McKenna were always at odds. Now paired together on Yancey's search-and-rescue canine unit, they begin to put aside old arguments as they come to see each other in a different light. Then a call comes in from the Iditarod that will push them to their limits. 

Kirra's uncle, a musher in the race, has disappeared. Kirra and Reef quickly track the man, but what they discover is harrowing. Frank's daughter has been kidnapped. In order to save her, the man must use his knowledge as a mechanical engineer to do the kidnapper's bidding or she will die. Kirra and Reef, along with the entire McKenna family, are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl's life, but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen.


Publisher: Bethany House, 2015
Cover Design: Paul Higdon with Koechel Peterson & Associates, Minneapolis, Minnesota/Gregory Rohm


My Review

As if fighting for your life while attempting to save the life of your loved one taken hostage isn't bad enough, add extreme below-zero temperatures, waist-high snow, rugged terrain, and a conspiracy that could devastate thousands, and you've got Sabotaged. This high-stakes, edge-of-you-seat novel will transport you to Alaska with Reef McKenna and Kirra Jacobs, two SAR (search-and-rescue) workers for the Iditarod race. Their past antagonistic relationship blossoms into attraction as Reef helps Kirra track her uncle, Frank, an experienced musher who's mysteriously disappeared from the race. As they close in on her uncle's trail, they discover Kirra's cousin, Meg, has been kidnapped, and neither family member will survive unless Frank unleashes a disaster that will cripple the frozen North. 

This is the first book I've read of Dani Pettrey's and it won't be my last. The insightful dialogue and tight writing had me turning the pages to find the next clue. I will definitely be reading the rest of the Alaskan Courage series. 

I give this book 5 stars!

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Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the ALASKAN COURAGE romantic suspense series, which includes her best-selling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, Silenced, and new release, Sabotaged. Her books have been honored with the Daphne du Maurier award, two HOLT Medallions, two National Reader's Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing's Best Award, among others.

She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves--the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of her character's faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their two daughters, a son-in-law, and a super adorable grandson. You can find her online at www.danipettrey.com. 

300 FREE eBooks!

That's right! My publisher, Pelican Book Group, is offering 300 eBooks absolutely FREE during Lent! No strings attached.

Simply put the eBooks you want in your "shopping cart," and it's $0 at checkout!

All genres of books. Lots of great titles. This is a great opportunity to fill your eReader or tablet with clean, entertaining stories.

Looking for new authors? Here's your chance to try them for FREE!



Did I mention FREE yet?

To browse the catalog of FREE titles, click here.

If you love Christmas-themed romances, download my novellas Bright Copper Kettles and Silver White Winters for FREE!

Hurry! This promotion ends 4/2/15.

Happy reading!