Brenda S. Anderson's Blog, page 37
January 19, 2015
CHAIN OF MERCY New eBook Price
New and permanent e-reader price for Chain of Mercy! Now only $3.99 for your Nook or Kindle! I’d love it if you’d help spread the word!
Thank you!
Kindle: http://bit.ly/Amazon399
Nook: http://bit.ly/BN399
And the Winner of Brentwood’s Ward is …
Lis K!
Congratulations, Lis! I know you’ll enjoy Brentwood’s Ward by Michelle Griep!
Winner selected using Random.org.
January 14, 2015
2015 Movie Anticipation
After I had this post written & prepared, my husband reminded me that I promised Part 2 of my novel anticipation post today. Oops! Hopefully you won’t mind waiting until Tuesday the 20th for the rest of my novel list.
Once again, several movies make my can’t-wait-to-see list. Of course, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll all pass muster. Last year’s list included favorites Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, X-Men: Days of Future Past, and How To Train Your Dragon 2. But the list also included movies for which I had high expectations, but their delivery was so-so: Maleficent, The Monuments Men, and The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.
That doesn’t stop me from hoping that each of the 2015 movies lives up to its billing. We’ll be at the theater, legs propped up in the uber-comfortable recliner seats, popcorn buckets in hand, enjoying two-plus hours of no phones ringing, no dirty house begging to be cleaned, no one yelling for Mom. It’s pretty close to paradise. 
January
American Sniper – I love movies about true-life heroes. This biographical movie depicting U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle’s life will be a tough one to watch, but I’m anticipating coming away with a deeper appreciation for what our troops go through.
Still Alice – Based on the gut-wrenching novel by Lisa Genova about a Harvard professor who receives the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. It was a tough book to read–I’m certain the movie will follow suit.
March
Cinderella - Another live-action fairy tale that has a look similar to last year’s Maleficent (the story fell short, IMO). Here’s hoping Cinderella will be an improvement. If not, I’ll just have to dig out Ever After again.
The Divergent Series: Insurgent – Not being a dystopian fan, I was completely surprised by the first movie in this series, Divergent. We’ll see if this one holds my interest.
May
The Avengers: Age of Ultron – To say this is my most anticipated movie of 2015 is an understatement. The trailers released so far only enhance my anticipation. Our entire family is already planning to take the day off and spend it at the theater (assuming they have another Avengers marathon as they did when The Avengers released.) Yes, we are total Marvel movie geeks! But you knew that already, didn’t you?
June
Jurassic World – When Jurassic Park came out in 1993, my husband and I took a very rare evening out to the theater. It was well worth the seats, the popcorn, and the babysitter. Now, I often use the original as an example of excellent storytelling. Too bad the second and third Jurassic movies didn’t follow suit. But the trailer for Jurassic World hints at having a much better story line, and it doesn’t hurt that Chris Pratt is playing the hero.
Inside Out – From terrifying dinosaurs to a cartoon peak inside of our heads. With Pixar behind this movie, I’ve no doubt it will be another winner.
July
Minions - How is it that yellow, tubular shaped creatures have totally captured our hearts? I can’t explain it, but I’m looking forward to seeing them in their own movie, and judging by what I see on my Facebook and Pinterest pages, I know I’m not alone.
Ant-Man – This is one Marvel movie I’m skeptical about. Its production hasn’t gone smoothly. We’ll see if they got all the kinks worked out …
And then we have a huge movie drought until November, at least for my taste, and then it’s a movie that I’m so-so about seeing …
The Good Dinosaur – I know little about this movie other than that it’s another Pixar production. Dare I say I’m skeptical about a Pixar movie?
What movies are you looking forward to seeing in 2015?
January 12, 2015
Meet Nicholas Brentwood from Michelle Griep’s BRENTWOOD’S WARD
*** Book Giveaway ***
See contest info below
There’s little that’s more fun than welcoming friends to my blog, especially when they have a brand new book out, so I’m thrilled to welcome author Michelle Griep …
Actually, let me restate that, I’m thrilled to welcome Nicholas Brentwood, Michelle Griep’s hero from her new release, Brentwood’s Ward, to my blog. Michelle is busy with the book release stuff, so Nicholas stepped in to help her out. Nicholas Brentwood is a rough and tumble lawman with a strong sense of right and wrong. He’s agreed to answer a few questions today, which is a rare treat …
But first, here’s a little bit about Brentwood’s Ward:
There’s none better than NICHOLAS BRENTWOOD at catching the felons who ravage London’s streets, and there’s nothing he loves more than seeing justice carried out—but this time he’s met his match. Beautiful and beguiling EMILY PAYNE is more treacherous than a city full of miscreants and thugs, for she’s a thief of the highest order…she’s stolen his heart.
Sounds like a page-turner, doesn’t it? And as an occasional critique partner of Michelle, I’ve had glimpses into this story and am dying to read the entire book. The only reason I haven’t is because Michelle’s having a book signing this Saturday (Burnsville LifeWay, for those of you in Minnesota), and I plan on purchasing my book then.
But I digress….
At last, what you’ve been waiting for, the rare interview with Nicholas Brentwood …
QUESTION: What made you decide to become a Bow Street Runner?
NICHOLAS: **a muscle twitches along his jaw then softens when he makes eye contact with you** “Perhaps you’re not aware that “runner” is a derogatory name. I don’t “run” errands for the magistrate. I am an officer of the law, snatching criminals off the street and hauling them in so that justice can be meted out . . . and that is exactly why I signed up for the position. Vengeance may be the Lord’s duty. Justice is mine.”
QUESTION: Who was the most dangerous scoundrel you ever crossed paths with?
NICHOLAS: **flashes a smile** “Time was when I’d answer that question with ol’ Natty Pickmacket.” **rolls up his sleeve and turns over a forearm knotted with muscle—and a thick scar running the length of it** “See that? Natty knew how to wield a blade. Best of the best. Caught me off-guard in an alley off King’s Courtyard. But he was a babe compared to the most cunning thief I ever crossed paths with.” **tugs his sleeve down** “Emily Payne left me bleeding on the inside.”
QUESTION: Speaking of Miss Payne, what was your first impression when you met her?
NICHOLAS: **quirks a brow** “Is this off the record?”
QUESTION: She won’t hear a word of it.
NICHOLAS: “The first time I met Emily was a punch in the gut. Beauty, wit, and a streak of rebelliousness are the worst possible combination. I knew exactly what she was. An opportunist, using her sweet smile and soft curves to get whatever she wanted. Still . . .” **a broad grin lights the dark shadows of his face** “I loved her for it, though I wouldn’t admit it. Not even to myself.”
QUESTION: Some day you may have a family. Will you continue in this perilous line of work?
NICHOLAS: **shrugs** “I would like a family of my own someday—if Emily is willing and God provides. Keeping them safe will be my top priority, and what better way than to remain in my present position?
QUESTION: Is that not a risk?
NICHOLAS: “Every breath you take brings a new risk. We live in a fallen world. I once told Emily that the only way to prevent trouble is to identify the danger before it strikes. I expect being a father would only heighten my sense of identification.” **reaches inside waistcoat and pulls out his pocketwatch, flipping open the cover with his thumb** “Sorry. Didn’t realize the time. I’ve enjoyed our conversation, but I really must dash, or I will be in danger.”
QUESTION: Oh? Are you off on a manhunt or an undercover assignment?
NICHOLAS: “No, nothing so clandestine.” **tucks away his watch** “Emily is waiting for me at the Chapter Coffee House. I took down a man there, once. This time I don’t want it to be me. She brandishes her temper like Natty and his blade. **winks before he wheels about and stalks out the door**
London’s streets are safer because of men like this. If you have the opportunity, be sure to thank a lawman today.
Intrigued? I knew you would be! Brentwood’s Ward is available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook formats at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other fine booksellers, so hurry out and pick up your copy!
ABOUT MICHELLE GRIEP
Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She seeks to glorify God in all that she writes—except for that graffiti phase she went through as a teenager.
She resides in the frozen tundra of Minnesota, where she teaches history and writing classes for a local high school co-op. An Anglophile at heart, she runs away to England every chance she gets, under the guise of research. Really, though, she’s eating excessive amounts of scones.
Follow her adventures at her blog WRITER OFF THE LEASH or visit michellegriep.com, and don’t forget the usual haunts of Pinterest, Facebook, or Twitter.
Website | Blog | Pinterest | Facebook | Twitter | Novel Rocket
MORE BOOKS BY MICHELLE
A Heart Deceived
Undercurrent
Gallimore
Writer Off the Leash: Growing in the Writing Craft (Coming in February 2015!)
>>>Book Giveaway<<<
Michelle has graciously offered to give away one copy of Brentwood’s Ward! To enter, in the comments below, please let us know if you’ve read any of Michelle’s other books. Which one(s)?
This contest ends Sunday, January 18, 2015 at 11:59 pm CST. I will post the winner on Monday, January 19, 2015. Winner will be chosen via Random.org.
January 7, 2015
Novel Anticipation – January 2015, Part 1
January’s a big month for new releases, so I’m breaking the post into two parts. Today, I get to brag on a few friends whose books just released. I’d love it (they’d love it too!) if you’d give their books a try.
BRENTWOOD’S WARD
by Michelle Griep
Shiloh Run Press
(Michelle will be my guest this coming Tuesday the 13th. She has a fabulous character interview with her protagonist Nicholas Brentwood, PLUS a book giveaway! You won’t want to miss it!)
Place an unpolished lawman named Nicholas Brentwood as guardian over a spoiled, pompous beauty named Emily Payne and what do you get? More trouble than Brentwood bargains for. She is determined to find a husband this season. He just wants the large fee her father will pay him to help his ailing sister. After a series of dire mishaps, both their desires are thwarted, but each discovers that no matter what, God is in charge.
RODEO FAMILY
by Shannon Taylor Vannatter
TORI EATON IS READY TO START OVER
She’s beginning a new chapter in Aubrey, Texas, away from her abusive ex-boyfriend. As she picks up the pieces of her broken life, Tori’s surprised at the helping hand the church’s new song director, Brant McConnell, offers her, and at the warm emotions he inspires.
Brant is drawn to Tori. And as their friendship grows, so do his feelings for her. But Tori is still hounded by her past, and the walls she’s built around her heart are high. Can he convince the wounded beauty that he’s exactly the kind of man she needs—and deserves?
DAKOTA LOVE
by Rose Ross Zediker
Modern South Dakota individuals use quilting to bring them joy and comfort, but suddenly quilting is leading them to romances they didn’t even know they wanted.
Caroline and Rodney have each been loaded with many worries, but a tattered quilt could bring them together to share their burdens.
Sarah and Mark embrace their independence until a quilting class throws them together and reveals their need for companionship.
Lil is outgoing where Walt is private, but as they use quilting for physical therapy, an old secret could be revealed that will expose just how different they really are.
Remember to come back next Tuesday, January 13, for the interview with Brentwood’s Ward hero, Nicholas Brentwood. And then on Thursday, January 15, I’m sharing additional January releases that I’m excited about.
January 5, 2015
Favorite Novels from 2014
2014 was a slow year of reading for me. Typically, I’ll read over 100 books, but in 2014 I only completed 78. That’s due to a combination of factors, including having less time to read having released two novels during the year, and being much more picky about what I read.
As you can see, while I still prefer contemporary drama, my favorites come from several genres: YA, romance, historical, spec, thriller, suspense, women’s fiction. John Otte even made the list twice, and it’s not because he’s a friend. He’s a fabulous storyteller!
The books and authors are listed below in the order I read them:
MEANT TO BE MINE
(Porter Family #2)
by Becky Wade
DANCING WITH FIREFLIES
(Chapel Springs #2)
by Denise Hunter
A WOMAN OF FORTUNE
(Texas Gold)
by Kellie Coates Gilbert
THE PURSUIT OF TAMSEN LITTLEJOHN
by Lori Benton
A CRY FROM THE DUST
(A Gwen Marcey Novel #1)
by Carrie Stuart Parks
LOVE’S FORTUNE
(The Balantyne Legacy #3)
by Laura Frantz
STRANDED
by Don & Stephanie Prichard
CHECKMATE
(The Bowers Files #7)
by Steven James
FAILSTATE: NEMESIS
(Failstate series)
by John W. Otte
What were your favorite reads from 2014? Have you read any of my favorites?
January 1, 2015
How Did You Spend New Year’s Eve?
I love New Year’s Eve! Not because I’m eager to wave goodbye to the past year or say hello to a brand new year, but because it’s become a fun day to spend with my family, a day to create lasting memories.
For several years now we’ve selected a movie theme for the day and spend many hours watching while munching popcorn and nachos and all sorts of calorie-laden foods (so we can start our diet and exercise regimen the next day). In the past, we’ve had an Avengers marathon, a Lord of the Rings marathon, Pixar, Toy Story and more. Yesterday we watched the three Narnia movies consecutively. How fun to see the Pevensie kids grew up before our eyes!
But before starting the movies, we celebrated by bowling two games at Ham Lake Lanes. They have an amazing deal for families. For just $10 a person, you bowl for two hours and dine on all-you-can-eat pizza and pop. They also provide noisemakers for an early celebration and offer giveaways throughout the evening. To add a little more interest, we always sign in with different names. This year we were Guardians of the Galaxy characters. I was Groot–or to put it in GOTG vernacular, “I am Groot.”
The fact that our kids (22, 20, & 18) still enjoy spending time with their parents on New Year’s Eve means a lot, and we’ll take advantage of that for as long as we can.
How did you bring in the New Year?
December 29, 2014
2015 INSPY Nominations Open!
My favorite book award for Christian literature has to be the INSPY Award (The Bloggers Award for Excellence in Faith-Driven Fiction). While I respect the Carol and the Christy, the INSPYs expand their reach by receiving nominations from both Christian booksellers and the general marketplace.
I’m also partial to the INPSYs as I was privileged to be a judge in the general market category back in 2011. I know what the process is and respect it.
Nominating your favorite book is easy. Just go >here< and fill in Title, Author, Publisher, Category, Publication Month, 13 Digit ISBN, & Reason for Nomination.
Now, I would dearly love it if one of my readers would nominate Chain of Mercy for an Inspy. (Pieces of Granite does not qualify as it is indie-published.) I’ll even make it easy for you–here’s all the info you need:
Title: CHAIN OF MERCY
Author: Brenda S. Anderson
Publisher: Winslet Press
Category: Debut Novel or General Fiction of Contemporary Romance
Publication Month: April
ISBN: 978-0985723576
Reason for Nomination: Well, that’s up to you.
Thank you!
And have a fun and safe New Years Celebration!
December 22, 2014
Inkspirational Tree
I love the pics I see on Facebook of Christmas trees created out of books, so I just had to give it a try myself. Now this is just a small created using the novels written by fellow Inkspirational Messages contributors Lorna Seilstad, Shannon Taylor Vannatter, Rose Ross Zediker, and myself. This isn’t all the books the Inkspers have written, just the ones I have on hand. I look forward to recreating the Inksper tree next year as it grows by several more books.
Have you seen novel Christmas trees? Have you ever created one yourself?
December 17, 2014
2014 – A Novel Christmas List, Part Two
I’m blessed to be part of a blog (Inkspirational Messages) with 10 sensational authors, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t suggest you add them to your Christmas list. Check out these 2014 releases from the Inkspers:
WHILE LOVE STIRS
(The Gregory Sisters, Book #2)
Lorna Seilstad
(Revell)
After graduating from Fannie Farmer’s School of Cookery in 1910, Charlotte Gregory is ready to stir things up. She is thrilled to have the opportunity to travel, lecture, and give cooking demonstrations on the very latest kitchen revolution–the gas stove–and certainly doesn’t mind that the gas company has hired the handsome Lewis Mathis to perform at her lectures. Lewis encourages her work, especially her crusade to introduce fresh, appetizing, nutritious food to those convalescing in hospitals. But young hospital superintendent Dr. Joel Brooks is not convinced any changes should be made–especially by this outspoken young woman.
When Charlotte and Joel are coerced into planning a fund-raising gala for the hospital, will this combustible pair explode?
Fan favorite Lorna Seilstad is back with a breezy, lighthearted love triangle that will keep readers guessing. Attention to historic detail adorns the timeless story of a young woman looking for true love and making her way in a rapidly changing world.
RODEO SONG
Shannon Taylor Vannatter
(Heartsong Presents)
But when silken-voiced Garrett Steele set out for stardom, he left Jenna—and his cowboy past—far behind. A chance encounter at one of his concerts propels him back into Jenna’s life. But, once burned by love, Jenna must guard her heart against the captivating singer.
Once upon a time, Garrett vowed he’d be a success, no matter what. But that path shattered his soul. His reunion with Jenna makes him long for things he once took for granted. Now he must show her that he’s found what he was looking for all along…right here in his hometown.
THE WIDOW’S SUITOR
Rose Ross Zediker
(Heartsong Presents)
Cora Anderson isn’t looking for love
The young widow is just trying to make a life on the prairie for herself and her newborn son. When handsome newcomer Luke Dow shows up at her cabin door, she soon relies on the man’s help with her homestead…and dares to dream of the future.
Luke came to the small South Dakota town to build a hotel and make his fortune. But he never expected to care for anyone, let alone the beautiful Cora and her baby boy. When Cora’s land claim is challenged by a neighbor, Luke will do all he can to protect her and her home—and claim her heart.
SWEET ON THE COWGIRL
Rose Ross Zediker
(Heartsong Presents)
Laura Barnes Wants to Be a Cowgirl
Laura has always dreamed of being a trick rider in her family’s Wild West show. But her father will only allow her to perform if she disguises herself as Mr. Buckskin Jones. When soda-pop king Guy Roberts shows up to do business with her family, Laura is torn between keeping her identity under wraps and revealing her growing feelings for Guy.
Guy is drawn to Laura’s poise and beauty, but he, too, guards a secret. As their affection for each other grows, Guy begins to think about a future that includes Laura. When both their secrets suddenly come to light, their romance will face the ultimate showdown.
And, of course, I can’t forget my books:
PIECES OF GRANITE
Coming Home Series Prequel
CHAIN OF MERCY
Coming Home Series Book 1
