I'm uber-excited to see my dear friend and crit bud's new book, Stepping Into Sunlight, come out in October. It's a heart-twisting, soul-warming, thought-provoking look into recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder. Sharon Hinck is a master at playing the emotions without insulting the intellect. You've GOT to get this book. Even Publisher's Weekly loved it, and they can be a hard sell!

Here's more about the book:

Stepping Into Sunlight
Copyright Sharon Hinck, 2008
Bethany House Publishing

One tragic event.
One project of healing.
One step toward hope.

A story for every woman who has wondered where God is when life hurts.

Penny, a Navy chaplain's wife, witnesses a violent crime and struggles with post traumatic stress while her husband is on his first deployment. She designs a project to speed her recovery: doing one small, kind act for a different person each day. The results are sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking, and often used by God in surprising ways.

"Sharon Hinck's authentic and endearing heroine is so convincing that I found myself praying for her!"
—Patti Hill, author of The Queen of Sleepy Eye

"Told with humor and lump-in-the-throat insight, Stepping Into Sunlight is a compelling story of learning to live again after trauma."
—Deborah Raney, author of A Vow to Cherish

ORDER IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/Stepping-Into-Sunlight-Sharon-Hinck/dp/0764202839/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1220644416&sr=1-1

And here's another one for your library:

Bon Appétit
By Sandra Byrd

The sequel to the Christy Award finalist, Let Them Eat Cake

Lexi Stuart is risking it all. Saying au revoir to the security of home, her job, and could-be boyfriend Dan, Lexi embarks on a culinary adventure in France to fulfill her life dream of becoming a pastry chef. Just when life seems set, though, the recipe goes awry and her life with God undergoes a major transformation as well. Now, she's got choices to make from the array in life's patisserie display window and just like at a bakery, choosing among delicious options is never easy.


"I was caught up in Lexi's tug-of-war between her charmed life in France with its possibility of romance, and the pull to Seattle where her family and a very special man long for her return. What a perfect story…" –Deborah Raney, author of Remember to Forget and Leaving November

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week and to join our deeper discussion of these and other titles go to Chapter-a-Week Chat at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAWChat/ where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

If you enjoy Chapter-a-Week take the time to tell a friend how to sign up. It's easy and free and a great way to find great books that fit each person's particular taste.

House of Wolves by Matt Bronleewe

Matt Bronleewe writes the kind of books that trip my trigger. Rare treasures in danger. Deadly secrets. Power-crazed villains. Innocent people in peril. The world at stake!

Check out his new thriller, House of Wolves.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

A mysterious book with a dangerous secret.

An evil brotherhood out to conquer the world.

One man stands between them . . . with his family in the balance.

In the twelfth century, Henry the Lion collected the rarest relics in Christendom. And to protect his most precious acquisitions, he encoded the whereabouts in a gorgeous illuminated manuscript called The Gospels of Henry the Lion.

The manuscript has been showing up and disappearing ever since. No one knows where the relic has been hidden . . . or its ultimate power.

Only one man holds the key to the mystery.

He's carrying it in his briefcase at his son's school for show-and-tell, and he thinks it's a fake. But he's about to find out just how real it is.

Because the wolves are rapidly closing in. And if August Adams can't decode the secret in time, the world's balance of power will forever be altered.

If you would like to read anexcerpt of House Of Wolves, it will be HERE

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1595542507

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Matt Bronleewe is a recognized producer, songwriter and author. The former member of the band Jars of Clay, has earned numerous awards producing and co-writing albums that have sold a combined total of over 20 million copies. His songs have recently been recorded by Disney pop sensations Aly & AJ, American Idol finalist Kimberley Locke, and more. Bronleewe has worked with Grammy Award-winning artists such as Michael W. Smith, International pop singer Natalie Imbruglia and Heroes star Hayden Panettiere.

Born in Dallas, Texas, Bronleewe was raised on a farm in Kansas, where he lived until he left for college in 1992. At Greenville College in Illinois, Bronleewe formed the band Jars of Clay with his dorm roommate and two neighbors, and the group soon found success. Though Bronleewe opted to leave Jars of Clay early on to pursue an academic career, he soon found himself in Nashville, co-writing, producing, and playing music professionally.

To add to his list of accomplishments, Bronleewe has expanded his love of story telling beyond music into authorship. He is currently penning a 5 book series for Thomas Nelson Fiction. His first book Illuminated began the adventurous series about rare manuscripts and the mysteries within.

Bronleewe currently resides in Brentwood, Tenn., with his wife and three children. He continues to write and produce music, and he also volunteers through his church to help disadvantaged youth in the community. Bronleewe enjoys reading, taste-testing good food and watching sports, as well as indulging his interests in art, architecture, design and science.

Trish Perry books are so much fun! What that means is that no matter what Trish puts out, fun things happen within the pages. Beach Dreams, her new release, is no different. Like the back cover says, it's "a book that tells the touching and humorous story about how God uses even our mistakes to bring about His divine purpose." Talk about an encouraging theme! I need to hear that a lot, because I make plenty of those--mistakes, I mean. So pick yourself up an encouraging slice of fun with this third in the Beach House series.

Oh, and read to the end of this post for a link to enter a contest to win a fun array of beach prizes!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Tiffany LeBoeuf seriously needs to get away. She has just lost her mother to cancer, and she returns home to find herself fired for devoting the past three months to her mother's care. Grieving and stressed, Tiffany seeks rest for her body and soul at a cozy beach house in San Diego.

A scheduling mix-up causes a double booking, and Tiffany ends up sharing the house with a woman named Eve. When Eve's boyfriend, Jeremy Beckett, arrives to surprise Eve, he surprises Tiffany as well. Jeremy and Tiffany share a brief history, and it's not a pretty one. They also share a mutual attraction, and it's not a comfortable one.

Jeremy settles in at the beach house next door, intent on making his love life right. What happens after that surprises them all.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=924467&netp_id=518972&event=ESRCN&item_code=WW&view=covers

Find out more about Trish Perry and her books at http://www.trishperrybooks.com/.

Here's the contest link: http://www.blogtourspot.com/. Go here to enter for an array of beach prizes!

New Chapter-a-Week Fiction!

The Black Cloister
By Melanie Dobson

Trapped inside an abusive cult, one woman is dying to break free.

After her mother commits suicide, Elise Friedman travels to Germany to search for answers and discovers her mother's dark secret inside the walls of a medieval abbey. When the man who destroyed her mother threatens to destroy her as well, Elise fights for a way out of the darkness before she is consumed.

"From the moment I opened up to the first page of The Black Cloister, I was hooked. This intense, well-crafted story about a modern day cult will have you wondering long into the night." --Linda Hall, Shadows in the Mirror


FOR PETE'S SAKE
#2 in the Piper Cove Chronicles
by Linda Windsor

Avon Inspire ISBN 978-0-06-117138-3 $12.95

Ellen isn't sure true love exists…until she landscapes the estate of the widower next door. Adrian has it all—at least on the surface. He's engaged to a beautiful woman and he'll soon have a stepmom for his troubled son, Pete. Yet from the moment Ellen rescues him on her Harley, his well-ordered world turns upside down. With his business under investigation for espionage and his son pushing for the tomboy-next-door as his new mom, Adrian's façade of happiness shatters. As Ellen's three best friends step in to help her navigate the uncharted waters of love, she must ask herself if she's ready to risk her heart and trust that God has brought this family into her life for a reason. [Available at local and online bookstores.]


BEST BOOK AWARD, Long and Short Reviews: "Linda Windsor will have you laughing, hurting and loving along the way...packed with chemistry, emotion, action, suspense, laughter, fun, faith and love. It is truly one of a kind. There was not a boring moment among the pages and I found myself completely drawn into the lives of these characters and the town of Piper Cove."

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week and to join our deeper discussion of these and other titles go to Chapter-a-Week Chat at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAWChat/ where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

Important Announcement!

Editors, and agents, and authors, oh my! They're all over the place at the American Christian Fiction Writers annual conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, September 18 - 21. And like a friend of mine says, the editors and agents are there on purpose to hear from writers. They'll be happy to see you. They'll take you seriously. So be there, or be square!

The deadline to register is this Friday, August 15, to qualify for the cheapest rate. Yes, you can still register after Friday, but the cost goes up. This is the premier Christian fiction writers conference in the nation. Don't miss it if you can possibly get to Minneapolis from September 18 - 21. If you can't make the whole thing, you CAN register by the day.

Here's the web site to register: http://www.acfw.com/conference/

Oh, and I just heard that the next 25 people to sign up will be in a drawing for a $25 Barnes and Noble gift card! How handy to use at the massive ACFW book signing scheduled for the Mall of America on Saturday, September 20, from 1 - 3 p.m., sponsored by the MOA B&N.

Will I see you there?

All Through the Night by Davis Bunn

Davis Bunn has come out with a new heart-twister.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A loner, trying to forget. A community--and a woman--who need for him to remember...Broken relationships and unfulfilled promises scatter themselves across Wayne's past like burned-out craters. His background in military special-ops is something he's trying to forget. But when he gets himself sweet-talked into helping a quirky group of seniors who've been scammed, he discovers it will take a lot more than muscle and nerve. Breach a conman's high-security estate to recover stolen money? No problem. Become part of community? Love again? Not on your life.

A lawyer with her own painful past is intrigued by Wayne and asks him to take on another unusual case--Tatanya's wealthy employer believes he's been visited by...an angel? Did a messenger from God in a pinstripe suit truly bring a divine warning, or is this merely another cruel hoax? Tatanya is willing to trust Wayne with her boss's life, but she's not sure she's ready to trust him with her own wounded heart.

With a financial analyst's skills and a warrior's tenacity, Wayne races to unmask dangerous forces hiding behind a corporate veil. But he will need all his resources--and then some--against an unseen enemy bent on destroying his fragile bid for a second chance at life...and love.All he wanted was to put his past behind him. But now it's the only thing that will save them...

If you would like to read the first chapter of All Through The Night, go HERE.

BUY THE BOOK NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764205420

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Davis Bunn is an internationally-acclaimed author who has sold more than six million books in fifteen languages. His audiences spans reading genres from high drama and action thrillers to heartwarming relationship stories, in both contemporary and historical settings. Honored with three Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, his bestsellers include My Soul To Keep, and Full Circle .



A sought-after lecturer in the art of writing, Bunn was named Novelist in Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University.He and his wife, Isabella, make their home in Florida for some of each year, and spend the rest near Oxford, England, where they each teach and write.

Win Dragonlight

I'm honored and delighted to talk up my dear friend's latest release, Dragonlight. Donita K. Paul is a major name in Christian fantasy fiction. Her books appeal to all ages--middle grade through adult. The kindly teacher in her draws flocks of kids, not only to her books, but to her web site and her site on Shoutlife.

She says one of her biggest awards was the day a young lady whispered in her ear at a booksigning. The girl said that she and her boyfriend had determined to remain pure like Kale and Bardon in Donita's books. That "award" came from God, and she treasures it like no other!

Because Donita's books are so special to me as her critique partner, I have a specific requirement for anyone to be entered in the drawing. Please tell someone else about her books--a family member, a relative, a co-worker, a friend. (Not the dog or the toddler. LOL) Refer them to this blog post for more information if you'd like. Then respond with a comment below, citing who you told, and you will be entered in a drawing to win a copy of Dragonlight. Oh, by the way, this whole series makes great gifts for young and old, for believer and nonbeliever!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The fantastic land of Amara is recovering from years of war inflicted on its citizens by outside forces–as well as from the spiritual apathy corroding the Amarans’ hearts. With Kale and her father serving as dragon keepers for Paladin, the dragon populace has exploded. It’s a peaceful, exciting time of rebuilding. And yet, an insidious, unseen evil lurks just beneath the surface of the idyllic countryside. Truth has never been more important, nor so difficult to discern.

As Kale and her father are busy hatching, bonding, and releasing the younger generation of dragons as helpers throughout the kingdom, the light wizard has little time to develop her skills. Her husband, Sir Bardon–despite physical limitations resulting from his bout with the stakes disease–has become a leader, serving on the governing board under Paladin. When Kale and Bardon set aside their daily responsibilities to join meech dragons Regidor and Gilda on a quest to find a hidden meech colony, they encounter sinister forces. Their world is under attack by a secret enemy… can they overcome the ominous peril they can’t even see?

Prepare to experience breathtaking adventure and mind-blowing fantasy as never before in this dazzling, beautifully-crafted conclusion to Donita K. Paul’s popular DragonKeeper Chronicles fantasy series.

If you would like to read the first chapter of DragonLight, go HERE.

"DragonLight is a delight, but I wouldn't expect anything less from the marvelous Donita K. Paul. I heartily recommend her books to all ages who love inspirational fantasy and wonderful creatures. Ms Paul not only supplies imagination and talent, she provides heart and soul. Another winner!"~KATHRYN MACKEL, author of Boost

"Donita K. Paul is amazing! DragonLight has the allegorical depth to satisfy the most discerning adult seeking spiritual depth, yet it is fun enough to fascinate a child. This book will enthrall, uplift, and if allowed, change lives--as we are gently drawn to realize that each of us is flawed and must have patience with other flawed believers."~HANNAH ALEXANDER, author of Double Blind

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1400073782

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Donita K. Paul retired early from teaching school, but soon got bored! The result: a determination to start a new career. Now she is an award-winning novelist writing Christian Romance and Fantasy. She says, “I feel blessed to be doing what I like best.”

She mentors all ages, teaching teenagers and weekly adult writing workshops.“God must have imprinted 'teacher' on me clear down to the bone. I taught in public school, then home schooled my children, and worked in private schools. Now my writing week isn’t very productive unless I include some time with kids.” Her two grown children make her proud, and her two grandsons make her laugh.

Donita is an award-winning author of the Dragon Keeper Chronicle series including DragonFire and DragonKnight. When not writing, she is often engaged in mentoring writers of all ages.

Donita lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado where she is learning to paint–walls and furniture! Visit her website at http://www.dragonkeeper.us/.

Win "Painted Dresses"

When Patricia Hickman's new release arrived at my house, I opened up the package and kissed the cover. I love her books. She does relationship sagas with just the right touch of tension and fulfillment.

Painted Dresses is classic Hickman, and she even throws in a healthy twist of suspense. I mean, how can you miss with a story about a pair of orphaned sisters--one an out-of-control manic depressive and the other "normal" but relationship-challenged--on the lam from a crazed drug dealer? Hickman permeates the mix with a heartrending personal quest to uncover a dark family secret. Oh, and did I forget the sweep dollop of romance?

Wha-hoo! I'm in reader bliss!! Leave a comment at the end of the post to win your chance to join me there with your very own copy of Painted Dresses!!!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In this story of sisterhood and unexpected paths, Gaylen Syler-Boatwright flees her unraveling marriage to take refuge in a mountain cottage owned by her deceased aunt. Burdened with looking after her adult sister, Delia, she is shocked to find a trail of family secrets hidden within her aunt’s odd collection of framed, painted dresses. With Delia, who attracts trouble as a daily occupation, Gaylen embarks on a road trip that throws the unlikely pair together on a journey to painful understanding and delightful revelations.

Steeped in Hickman’s trademark humor, her spare writing voice, and the bittersweet pathos of the South, Painted Dresses powerfully captures a woman’s desperate longing to uncover a hidden, broken life and discover the liberty of living authentically, even when the things exposed are shrouded in shame. If you would like to read the first chapter, go HERE.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1400071992

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Patricia Hickman is an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction, whose work has been praised by critics and readers alike. Patricia Hickman began writing many years ago after an invitation to join a writer's critique group. It was headed up by best-selling author Dr. Gilbert Morris, a pioneer in Christian fiction who has written many best selling titles. The group eventually came to be called the "Nubbing Chits".

All four members of the original "Chits" have gone on to become award-winning and best selling novelists (good fruit, Gil!). Patty signed her first multi-book contract with Bethany House Publishers. After she wrote several novels "for the market", she assessed her writer's life and decided she would follow the leanings of her heart. She says, "It had to be God leading me into the next work which wound up being my first break-out book, Katrina's Wings. I had never read a southern mainstream novel, yet I knew that one lived in my head, begging to be brought out and developed." She wanted to create deeper stories that broke away from convention and formula. From her own journey in life, she created a world based upon her hometown in the 70's, including Earthly Vows and Whisper Town from the Millwood Hollow Series.

Patty and her husband, Randy, have planted two churches in North Carolina. Her husband pastors Family Christian Center, located in Huntersville. The Hickmans have three children, two on earth and one in heaven. Their daughter, Jessi, was involved in a fatal automobile accident in 2001. Through her writing and speaking, Patty seeks to offer help, hope and encouragement to those who walk the daily road of loss and grief.

Try Darkness by James Scott Bell

I'm excited to see the sequel to Try Dying. James Scott Bell is one of my favorite authors, because I haven't been disappointed yet when I pick up one of his.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

JAMES SCOTT BELL is a former trial lawyer who now writes full time. He has also been the fiction columnist for Writers Digest magazine and adjunct professor of writing at Pepperdine University.

The national bestselling author of several novels of suspense, he grew up and still lives in Los Angeles. His first Buchanan thriller, TRY DYING, was released to high critical praise, while his book on writing, Plot and Structure is one of the most popular writing books available today.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Ty Buchanan is living on the peaceful grounds of St. Monica’s, far away from the glamorous life he led as a rising trial lawyer for a big L.A. firm. Recovering from the death of his fiancée and a false accusation of murder, Buchanan has found his previous ambitions unrewarding. Now he prefers offering legal services to the poor and the underrepresented from his “office” at local coffee bar The Freudian Sip. With his new friends, the philosophizing Father Bob and basketball-playing Sister Mary Veritas, Buchanan has found a new family of sorts.

One of his first clients is a mysterious woman who arrives with her six-year-old daughter. They are being illegally evicted from a downtown transient hotel, an interest that Ty soon discovers is represented by his old law firm and his former best friend, Al Bradshaw. Buchanan won’t back down. He’s going to fight for the woman’s rights. But then she ends up dead, and the case moves from the courtroom to the streets. Determined to find the killer and protect the little girl, who has no last name and no other family, Buchanan finds he must depend on skills he never needed in the employ of a civil law firm.

The trail leads Buchanan through the sordid underbelly of the city and to the mansions and yachts of the rich and famous. No one is anxious to talk. But somebody wants Buchanan to shut up. For good.

Now he must use every legal and physical edge he knows to keep himself and the girl alive. Once again evoking the neo-noir setting of contemporary Los Angeles, Bell delivers another thriller where darkness falls and the suspense never rests.

If you would like to read chapters 1 & 2, go HERE.

“Bell has created in Buchanan an appealing and series-worthy protagonist, and the tale equally balances action and drama, motion and emotion. Readers who pride themselves on figuring out the answers before an author reveals them are in for a surprise, too: Bell is very good at keeping secrets. Fans of thrillers with lawyers as their central characters—Lescroart and Margolin, especially—will welcome this new addition to their must-read lists.”—Booklist

“Engaging whodunit series kickoff . . . Readers will enjoy Bell's talent for description and character development.”—Publishers Weekly

“James Scott Bell has written himself into a niche that traditionally has been reserved for the likes of Raymond Chandler.” —Los Angeles Times

“A master of suspense.”—Library Journal

“One of the best writers out there, bar none.”—In the Library Review

BUY THE BOOK NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1599956853

Are You "Searching for Spice"?

A lovlier, more fun lady you'll never meet that Megan (pronounced with a long "e," please) DiMaria. I'm totally jazzed to toot her horn for her debut novel, Searching for Spice. This charming lady lit novel will have you hooting, as well as rooting for Linda and Jerry in their honest fumblings to achieve that sometimes mysterious but always awesome symbiosis between husband and wife. Read the blog and post a pertinent comment for a chance to win a copy!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Have you ever dreamed of having a lip-flaming affair--with your husband?

That's the premise behind Searching for Spice. Linda Revere is a romance-deprived photographer's assistant who longs to experience a little romance in her 24-year-old marriage. But is she ready for what happens next?

Romantic Times Magazine ~ 4 1/2 stars!
DiMaria’s debut novel shines with warmth and wisdom. Linda and Jerry’s marriage is realistic, and readers will be able to identify with and learn from their struggles. A sprinkling of humor and detailed secondary characters raise this novel a notch above the rest.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/Searching-Spice-Megan-DiMaria/dp/1414318871/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1216386191&sr=1-1

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Megan says she has traveled to the ends of the earth and beyond within the pages of books. She was born and raised in New York State and has since lived in Maine, Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, New Jersey, and now lives in Colorado. She and her husband have three delightful, adult children and an old Jack Russell Terrier named Belle who seems to find its way into her novels.

BONUS INFO ON BOOK EXCERPTS AVAILABLE THIS WEEK ON CAW!

Daring Chloe
By Laura Jensen Walker
(Zondervan, June 2008)

Chloe has led a safe, quiet life. Adventure? No thank you! But when her fiancé dumps her the night before their wedding, her book club friends convince her to take the vacation of a lifetime and timid Chloe blossoms into daring Chloe. A Chloe who just might be ready to face her biggest adventure of all.

Endorsements:
What could be better than adventures with your reading group based on the books you read? Walker's novel explores the outcome with Chloe, a woman afraid of many things. …Touching and inspirational, and even those who have no interest in France will be entranced by the exquisite descriptions when the book club travels there."
—Romantic Times (4 Star Review)

" . . . Laura has created the most lively and life-like ensemble of women I've ever read. . . Her best novel to date...I'm voting it "Best Chick-Lit of 2008!"
—Deena Peterson, A Peek At My Bookshelf Reviews

WIND RIVER
By Tom Morrisey

Desperate to forget what happened to him in Iraq, Tyler Perkins flees to the emptiness of Wyoming. He's here to escape and also to fulfill a long-ago promise by accompanying his 86-year-old friend Soren Andeman on a fly-fishing trip—once more for old time's sake.

But their trek to an idyllic trout lake soon becomes something more deeply harrowing—a journey that uncovers long-held lies, deadly crimes, and the buried secrets of the past. Ty barely has time to contemplate the question of what constitutes justice when nature unleashes her own revenge. Trapped in a race back to safety, he must face his own guilt-ridden past or risk being consumed.

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week and to join our deeper discussion of these and other titles go to Chapter-a-Week Chat at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAWChat/ where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

If you enjoy Chapter-a-Week take the time to tell a friend how to sign up. It's easy and free and a great way to find great books that fit each person's particular taste.

Promises, Promises

I have to rejoice with my web designer in her new release for Heartsong Presents. Whoo-hoo, Tiff! Waytago!!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Raelene Strattford knows God has promised never to leave or forsake her. But after the catastrophic deaths of her parents, she doesn t believe it. What kind of God would take a girl's family and leave her alone in a wild land where women have no voice? Gustaf Hanssen has admired Raelene from afar for a while, but his poor attempt at courting her in the past has made him unwelcome in her life. When Gustaf promises Raelene's dying father that he will take care of her, he finds himself bound to her happiness, her success, and her well-being in ways he never imagined. To keep his word must Gustaf really oversee all of Raelene's affairs, find her a husband, and maintain her farm, while she does nothing but scorn him? Can God reach through Raelene's pain and self-centeredness and give her the love that awaits, if only she will accept His will?

If you would like to read the first chapter, go HEREAt this time, Promises, Promises can only be purchased through the Heartsong Book Club.

BUY THE BOOK: http://www.heartsongpresents.com/book/detail/9781597899390/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Hi, I'm Amber, but my friends call me Tiff, short for Tiffany, my first name. Writing had always been a hobby, a way for me to express my innermost thoughts and feelings in a way I sometimes find difficult with the spoken word -- although my friends will tell you 'shy' is not in my vocabulary. Thanks to the gentle nudging of a fellow author -- Tracie Peterson -- in 2002, I took the next step in my writing career and joined the American Christian Fiction Writers. I owe all so many there a hearty hug of appreciation for their constant encouragement and unselfish assistance. I feel a lot more confident thanks to their support and love. For those of you who are also fiction writers looking for a wonderful support group, check them out!

I got involved with web design in 1997, when I was asked to take over running the official web site for the television series Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. That eventually led to a series of negotiations where I was offered the job of running world-renowned actress Jane Seymour's official fan site. That has branched into doing web sites for a variety of clients, including: authors J.M. Hochstetler, Trish Perry, Kathy Pride, Louise M. Gouge, Susan Page Davis, and Jill Elizabeth Nelson, actor William Shockley (the voice of AT&T and Sony) and many others. With the help of a handful of other web site "technos," Eagle Designs was born! Feel free to visit and see our other clients.

Books are a definite passion. Why else would I be writing and publishing them? I firmly believe that a good book can take you away from all of your problems, into a world you've never seen. My favorite food is Italian; I sing all the time, and I once worked with my church choir to do a professional recording for a music CD of our performances.

I am in my 30's, married the love of my life in July 2007, and live in beautiful Colorado, but I love to travel and visit new places. Ultimately, my dream is to own horses and live in a one-level rancher nestled in the mountains. For now, I will remain where I am and do what I love—design web sites and write.

Snag Your Copy of "Wiser Than Serpents"

Here's a new release from fellow Minnesota author, Susan May Warren. She's an award-winning author and an all-around fun gal. Her personal experience in Russia as a missionary makes her extra qualified to write her Russia-based tales of romantic suspense.

Read through this blog post and leave a pertinent comment to be entered for a chance at a copy of Wiser Than Serpents. Also, there will be an announcement at the end from Susan herself regarding a contest she's running on her own blog, as well as a link to get there.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

When her sister vanishes into a human slave ring, FSB agent Yanna Andrevka is determined to rescue her. Unfortuantely, she's in over her head, with no way out, especially after destroying the undercover operation of Delta Force Operative David Curtiss, who is deep undercover in the Twin Serpents crime syndicate. David has his hands full trying to save Yanna, and his operation -- one that could rescue hundreds of women from the Serpent, or cost he and Yanna their lives. The thrilling next chapter of the Mission:Russia series!

Read an excerpt: http://www.susanmaywarren.com/c1_wiserthanserpents.html

BUY IT NOW! http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&p=1028342&item_no=786206

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Susan is a multi-talented, multi-published author, as well as a wife and mother of four. She holds a B.A. in Mass Communications from the University of Minnesota, and, in addition to her novels with Tyndale and Barbour, has had numerous articles published in Christian magazines and devotional books. She and her family returned to the U.S. in 2004 after serving for eight years as missionaries to Khabarovsk, Far East Russia. They now make their home on the shores of Lake Superior, in Northern Minnesota.

A NOTE FROM SUSAN!

Wiser Than Serpents will be going on tour July 7 through July 12!
Also, I want to hear from YOU! Yep, that's right. I'm giving away 3 signed sets of the Mission:Russia series. All you have to do to enter is leave a comment on this post telling me which mission organizations or charities you support AND why.

http://susanmaywarren.typepad.com/scribbles/2008/07/wiser-than-serp.html

I'll randomly be selecting three winners on July 15th! Fun.

Tom Morrisey = High Adventure

Tom Morrisey and adventure are synonymous terms in my reading vocabulary. And he's the kind of guy who not only writes wild, he is wild, as his bio at the end will reveal. Actually, one of his nonfiction books is entitled Wild by Nature. Need I say more?

ABOUT THE BOOK:

You Can't Outrun the Sins of Your Past

Desperate to forget what happened to him in Iraq, Tyler Perkins flees to the emptiness of Wyoming. He's here to escape and also to fulfill a long-ago promise by accompanying his 86-year-old friend Soren Andeman on a fly-fishing trip--once more for old time's sake. But their trek to an idyllic trout lake soon becomes something more deeply harrowing--a journey that uncovers long-held lies, deadly crimes, and the buried secrets of the past.

Ty barely has time to contemplate the question of what constitutes justice when nature unleashes her own revenge. Trapped in a race back to safety, he must face his own guilt-ridden past or risk being consumed.

Powerfully imagined by the acclaimed author of In High Places, Wind River is an engaging wilderness adventure that explores the power of confession, the beauty of forgiveness, and the freedom of truth unveiled.

If you would like to read the first chapter, go HERE.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764203479

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tom Morrisey is a mountaineer, aviator, shipwreck diver, and explorer, who holds a Full Cave certification from the National Speleological Society - Cave Diving Section.

He has launched, edited or contributed to numerous national publications and is an award-winning adventure-travel writer. A popular speaker, he is also active in both evangelism and the arts. Morrisey earned an MFA in creative writing from Bowling Green State University, and his fiction has been featured in numerous anthologies and magazines.

His first novel, Yucatan Deep (Zondervan, 2002) was a finalist for the Christy award, and he is the author of four other novels: In High Places (Bethany House Publishers, 2007), Dark Fathom (Zondervan, 2005), Deep Blue, (Zondervan 2004), and Turn Four (Zondervan 2004). In addition Tom has also written two nonfiction books: 20 American Peaks & Crags (Contemporary Books, 1978) and Wild by Nature (Baker Books, 2001). He and his family live in Orlando, Florida.

* * * * * * *

On Friday, I'll be participating in the blog tour for Susan May Warren's latest Mission Russia, release: Wiser Than Serpents. And I'll be giving away a copy. So stay tuned!

Kristin Heitzmann's New Chiller Now Available!

I'm a big fan of Kristin Heitzmann. Her stories dig deep into the human psyche, provide ample fodder for thought, explore unexpected directions, and stimulate the spirit. I'm excited about her new release with the clever title, Edge of Recall. I hope you are too!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Tessa Young, an up-and-coming landscape architect who specializes in the design and creation of labyrinths, has immersed herself in the mythological, spiritual, and healing aspects of the elaborate structures. She also is searching for God and hoping to make sense of the nightmares that have plagued her since childhood.

When Smith Chandler, an estranged colleague--with whom she'd half fallen in love a dozen times before catching herself every time--calls to propose a project he claims is the opportunity of a lifetime, she reluctantly agrees to check it out. Smith is reconstructing a pre-Revolutionary War abbey for wealthy clients. Among its remarkable features is an overgrown labyrinth.

Unable to resist, Tessa accepts his offer to work with him. Soon she is immersed in the project of a lifetime. But one evening, after weeks of work in the labyrinth, Tessa and Smith are attacked. While protecting Tessa, Smith is stabbed, and the nightmare begins...again.

If You would like to read the first chapter, go HERE.

BUT IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764228315

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Of her three main interests, art, music and writing, she chose to study English at the University of Colorado and thrived on Creative Writing and Literature classes. She married her husband Jim, and turned her energy to building a family. They have four children whom they have home schooled for all or most of their education. Kristen is a music minister with the ecumenical covenant community People of Praise.

Once she realized the stories in her head were truly a calling from the Lord, she made writing not just a passion, but a ministry. She has written seven historical fiction novels as part of the The Rocky Mountain Legacy series, the Diamond of the Rockies series, and the Christy Award winner Secrets. Most recently, she has written several contemporary fiction novels, including Echoes, Freefall and Unforgotten.

Kristen and her husband, Jim, and their family live in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she serves as worship leader in their church.

Get Your Copy of Calico Canyon!

Now, you know a woman with a smile this infectious must write fun stories! Mary Conneally is a delightful person, and she pens rollicking romances with a flair of faith and humor.

Read on to find out more about her and her latest release, Calico Canyon.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Let yourself be swept away by this fast-paced romance, featuring Grace Calhoun, an instructor of reading, writing, and arithmetic, who, in an attempt to escape the clutchs of a relentless pursuer, runs smack dab into even more trouble with the 6R's - widower Daniel Reeves, along with his five rowdy sons. When a marriage is forced upon this hapless pair - two people who couldn't dislike each other more - an avalanche isn't the only potential danger lurking amid the shadows of Calico Canyon. Will they make it out alive? Or end up killing each other in the process? Running from her Abusive foster-father, a man intent on revenge, the prim and perfectly proper Grace Calhoun takes on the job of schoolmarm in Mosqueros, Texas.

As if being a wanted woman isn't bad enough, Grace has her hands full with the five rowdy and rambunctious Reeves boys─tough Texan tormenters who seem intent on making her life miserable. When, in an attempt to escape from the clutches of her pursuer, Grace is forced to marry widower Daniel Reeves, father of the miniature monsters, she thinks things couldn't get any worse. Or could they?

Daniel Reeves, happy in his all-male world, is doing the best he can, raising his five boys─rascals, each and every one. Since his wife's death in childbirth, Daniel has been determined never to risk marriage again.

When God throws Grace and Danielt together─two people who couldn't detest each other more─the trouble is only beginning.

Will this hapless pair find the courage to face life together in the isolated Calico Canyon? Or are their differences too broad a chasm to bridge?

If you would like to read the first chapter go HERE

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1597899380

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

MARY CONNEALY is an award-winning author and playwright, married to Ivan a farmer, and the mother of four beautiful daughters, Joslyn, Wendy, Shelly and Katy. They live in Decatur, Nebraska. Mary is a GED Instructor by day and an author by night. And there is always a cape involved in her transformation.

Mary has also written Petticoat Ranch, Golden Days, and her latest, Alaska Brides that will debut in August.

Win Dellosso's The Hunted!

I had the privilege of reading Mike's book while it was in production and supplying an endorsement, as you will see below. His style and content will delight Dean Koontz or Frank Peretti fans. Issues of right and wrong, good and evil are handled with finesse and compassion without sacrificing Godly standards. If you've been looking for a faith-filled spine-tingler, you've found it!

You can win a copy by leaving a pertinent comment, along with contact information.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

A town's deadly secret will drive one man to the edge of his faith...

After learning of the disappearance of his nephew, Joe Saunders returns to his childhood home of Dark Hills to aid in the search effort. When Caleb is found, badly mauled and clinging to life, Joe embarks on a mission to find the beast responsible. But the more Joe delves into the fabric of his old hometown, the more he realizes Dark Hills has a dark secret, shrouded for three generations in a deadly code of silence.

As Joe unravels the truth behind a series of unexplained animal attacks, murder, and corruption at the highest level of law enforcement, he is led to a final showdown where he must entrust his very life into God's hands. Will his young faith be strong ehough to battle the demonic forces of The Hunted?

If you would like to read the first chapter, go HERE.

Mike Dellosso could very well be the next Frank Peretti-if you liked The Oath and Monster, you are going to love The Hunted. --C.J. Darlington, Cofounder and book editor, Titletrakk.com

A spine-tingling tale of hidden secrets, buried hopes, and second chances. A story best read with all the lights on and an extra flashlight--just in case! --Amy Wallace, author of Ransomed Dreams

Mike Dellosso's pins-and-needles thriller hurtles the reader down a dark and twisted path. I dare you to take this one home! --Jill Elizabeth Nelson, author of the To Catch a Thief suspense series

With hints of Frank Peretti and Stephen King, The Hunted is a chilling debut." --Creston Mapes, author of Nobody

A vicious enemy, a family secret, a thirst for revenge, and a need for reconciliation all drive The Hunted from intriguing beginning to thrilling conclusion." --Kathryn Mackel, author of Vanished

Read this someplace safe as you experience the incredibly descriptive world of The Hunted. And sleep with the lights on. --Austin Boyd, author of Mars Hill Classified trilogy

BUY IT NOW: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1599792966

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Mike now lives in Hanover, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Jen, and their three daughters. He writes a monthly column for Writer . . .Interrupted. He was a newspaper correspondent/columnist for over three years and has published several articles for The Candle of Prayer inspirational booklets. Mike also has edited and contributed to numerous Christian-themed Web sites and e-newsletters.

Mike is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance, the Relief Writer's Network, and International Thriller Writers. He received his BA degree in sports exercise and medicine from Messiah College and his MBS degree in theology from Master's Graduate School of Divinity.

You can read a great interview with Mike, over on TitleTrakk.

I'm Celebrating with a Giveaway!

I was recently notified that Romance Reviews Today voted Reluctant Runaway the Best Inspirational Novel of 2007. Whoo-hoo!

Here's the link to RRT's "Perfect Ten" review of Reluctant Runaway: http://www.romrevtoday.com/Web%20Pages/Inspirational/reluctant%20runaway%20-%203-20-07.htm

Awards are of a fleeting nature, so I'm "seizing the moment" to give away a couple of copies of Reluctant Runaway in celebration. Please read through this blog post and answer the questions at the end for a chance to win one of the copies. Don't forget to include some kind of contact information in your comment!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Stolen Indian artifacts. . .
A dead museum guard. . .
A missing wife and mom. . .
A baby in mortal danger. . .

Museum security expert Desiree Jacobs and FBI agent Tony Lucano scramble to unearth the horrifying secret that links every incident. The investigation thrusts them into the path of something dark and sinister.

Something that craves blood sacrifice.

From the high society of the U.S. capital to the streets of Desi's beloved Boston to the mountain desert of New Mexico, Desi and Tony must thwart forces of darkness—relying on God’s guidance and strength—to save a young woman and her baby from a villain more desperate than they can imagine.

REVIEWS FROM BESTSELLING AUTHORS:

“Nonstop action, danger, and a romance with the tension of a walk on a high wire. You’re in for a wild ride with this story!”- Lorena McCourtney, author of the Ivy Malone Mystery series

“A fresh voice, strong heroine, and unique plot make Reluctant Runaway a can’t-put-down read. Jill Elizabeth Nelson is an author to watch in the realm of romantic suspense!”- Susan May Warren, award-winning author of In Sheep’s Clothing

EXCERPT. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.

September night pressed in on Desiree Jacobs like an urgent warning. She shrugged the unease away. Flexing rubber-soled feet, she fixed her gaze on the brick wall half a dozen yards ahead. Under her Mylar jumpsuit, sweat trickled down her ribs.

E-e-easy. This little jaunt was no different than a trip across the balance beam at the gym, a move she’d practiced for twenty-two of her thirty years. Except no thick mat waited a few feet away to soften a fall. Only ten stories of empty air. A single misstep off the steel girder and she’d make a nice Impressionist splat on the pavement of the alley below.

Then Max can attend another funeral.

Desi sighed. All right, girlfriend, you win. Bungee cord it is. She took a step backward onto the roof behind her. Amazing how easy it had been to get into this co-op apartment building next to the exclusive Tate Art Gallery of Washington DC. Delivering pizzas opened doors fast. Must be the hypnotic smell of sausage and pepperoni.

Desi knelt beside her discarded delivery uniform. She stripped off her backpack, then pulled out the bungee cord and clipped an end to the harness around her torso. The other end went around a pipe sticking out of the roof.

Lifting her arms, Desi stepped back onto the beam. Just try to keep her away from that American artist collection. She took a step, then one more, toes outward, heel to instep. And this step is for the Cassatt. She moved forward. And this one for the Savage. And this one for Grandma Moses. She hopped and switched foot positions. Expect me soon, Andy Warhol.

At midbeam she stopped and looked up at the sky. One plump star winked at her. If Tony could see her, he’d have a cow. She winked back at the star. What an overprotective FBI agent boyfriend didn’t know couldn’t hurt him.

Desi adjusted the backpack straps around her shoulders. She quick-stepped forward, one step back, then a trio of toe-steps forward. And those were for the three Georgia O’Keeffe’s. I’m coming, darlings.

The tenth-story ledge of the Tate Gallery building loomed close. She smelled the brick cooling from the heat of the Indian summer day.Almost there. Almost…Yesss!

Her breath came strong and even. She knelt on the two-foot ledge and glanced back at the wide-open space she’d conquered. The girder formed the only remaining connection between buildings that once shared a roof support system. A handy choice of approach under cover of night.

She shrugged out of her pack and unhooked the bungee cord. Good riddance.

By feel, Desi located her narrow-beam flashlight and trained the glow on the window in front of her. The pane was an unimpressive standard thickness, and the wood frame showed weather wear. Desi kneaded gloved fingers together.

Where were the booby traps?

Her gaze stopped on a slim white sensor strip across the inside of the sash. Even a trained eye could miss that one. Any tampering with the frame, and alarms would shriek loud enough to startle a poor unsuspecting burglar right off the ledge.

Desi gulped and peered downward. The ground was there, in the blank darkness, hard and unforgiving. Cold sparks skittered up her spine.

She stiffened her jaw. No way was that a premonition. She pursed her lips at the window. What about cutting the pane? Nope. A web of hair-fine wire covered the glass, not obstructing the view of the drab roof opposite, but any slice would end in handcuffs for the window surgeon. Nuh-uh! She didn’t need those bracelets.

Time to find another way in. And in a hurry. Tony would snort and paw if she wasn’t ready on time for the White House Midnight Masquerade. Besides, she couldn’t afford to give him explanations.

Rising, she hefted the pack in her right hand and pressed the left side of her body against the building. She swept the flashlight beam ahead of her on the ledge. All clear. She lifted her foot and then halted midmotion. Indrawn breath hissed between her teeth.

Idiot!

Planting her foot back where it started, she panned the light up the wall. Sure enough. Stubby plastic-coated sensor rods stuck out from the brick at irregular intervals–no slipping around, between, or under these babies. A broken rod or an attempt to remove one from its socket released an ultrasonic frequency that tripped an alarm, and voilà, one bagged burglar.

So where did that leave her? She frowned. With a sackful of goodies and no place to go, except…
She looked down and smiled.

Chuckling, Desi set a grappling hook in the chink between the ledge and the window and then clipped the end of the rope to her torso harness. Lying on her stomach, she turned and flipped her feet into open space. She balanced on the rim of the ledge, abdomen muscles and extended arms bearing her weight as if she were about to start a routine on the uneven bars. The bottoms of her feet sought and found the wall below.

Blood pumping, she pushed away from the ledge. The tether flowed with steady friction through her gloved fists. Piece of cake. Just a few smooth hops and–Cra-a-ack!

Desi’s line jerked. Bits of debris bounced off her head and shoulders. Her feet lost purchase. In free swing, her body rammed the wall, spurting a grunt from her throat. Pain shot through her shoulders and hips. She dug her fingers and toes into the chinks between the bricks and went still–except for her heart, which threatened to backflip right out of her chest.

- - - - - - - - -

Here are the questions for a chance at one of the books:

What is Desiree Jacobs' occupation? (Be careful! Appearances can be deceiving. :-)

What does Tony, Desiree's boyfriend, do for a living?

Thanks for helping me celebrate! Tell your friends about the opportunity.

Excellent Blessings!

The Hunted by Mike Dellosso

I had the fun of endorsing Mike Dellosso's scary new release, and now I get to join in his blog tour. Mike is going to be giving away signed cover flats to the first twenty people who sign up for his newsletter with the words "Blog Tour" in the comment box. Here's where you can sign up for that newsletter:

http://mikedellosso.com/blogtour.

Just to whet your whistle, here's my endorsement for The Hunted:

Mike Dellosso's pins and needles thriller hurtles the reader down a dark and twisted path. Flickers of faith light the way, and fateful decisions determine the outcome of a horrifying climax. I dare you to take this one home!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

A town’s deadly secret will drive one man to the edge of his faith…

Joe Saunders is determined to unravel the mystery surrounding the brutal mauling of his nephew.

Police Chief Maggie Gill is determined to protect the mystery surrounding her family’s deadly secret.

But neither is prepared for the truth when the mystery revealed uncovers the horror that is lurking in the shadows of Dark Hills.

After learning of the disappearance of his nephew, Joe Saunders returns to his childhood home of Dark Hills to aid in the search effort. When Caleb is found, badly mauled and clinging to life, Joe embarks on a mission to find the beast responsible. But the more Joe delves into the fabric of his old hometown, the more he realizes Dark Hills has a dark secret, shrouded for three generations in a deadly code of silence. As Joe unravels the truth behind a series of unexplained animal attacks, murder, and corruption at the highest level of law enforcement, he is led to a final showdown where he must entrust his very life into God’s hands.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/Hunted-Mike-Dellosso/dp/1599792966/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Mike now lives in Hanover, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Jen, and their three daughters. He writes a monthly column for Writer . . .Interrupted, was a newspaper correspondent/columnist for over three years, has published several articles for The Candle of Prayer inspirational booklets, and has edited and contributed to numerous Christian-themed Web sites and e-newsletters. Mike is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance, the Relief Writer’s Network, and International Thriller Writers. He received his BA degree in sports exercise and medicine from Messiah College and his MBS degree in theology from Master’s Graduate School of Divinity.

The Hunted Book Trailer: http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=23973716d5bff26953d1

The Hunted First Chapter: http://mikedellosso.com/Dellosso-Hunted_ch1.pdf

Ten Pound CAW Giveaway!

Chapter-a-Week is giving away TEN POUNDS of books. That's right. Ten pounds of summer reading for a winning member. Here are the details:

We had such a great response to our last book giveaway that we've decided to make it a regular event! So we are giving away a ten-pound box of autographed Chapter-a-Week books to one Chapter-a-Week member for summer reading fun.

Simply send an email with "Chapter-a-Week Summer Reading Giveaway" in the subject line to cawcontest@gmail.com and you'll be entered in the drawing. The deadline for signing up is June 6th and the winner will be announced June 13th. Get your entries in and be sure to tell your friends to sign up for Chapter-a-Week!

To qualify, the return email address must be on the Chapter-a-Week membership list.

Continental U. S. residents only, please. Industry professionals should refrain from entering, and though we'd love you to share our books with your friends, these books are not for resale.

Thanks and happy reading!
Your friends at Chapter-a-Week



Here are this week's feature titles. You can read chapters of these books on the CAW web site.


CONTROLLING INTEREST by Elizabeth White

THERE'S TROUBLE IN RIVER CITY...

Matt Hogan's Memphis detective agency has been on the skids since a recent attack of conscience cost him an important case. When a wealthy investor steps in and saves River City Investigations, Matt thinks all his prayers have been answered-until he finds out that with the investor comes a new partner.

Fresh out of criminal justice school and a two-year stint in the Tunica County Sheriff's Department, Natalie Tubberville is out to prove she can cut it in the world of private investigations. But her reluctant partner is just as determined to have nothing to do with her--until Natalie makes him an offer he can't refuse! If Matt solves the next case before she does, she will return her share of the company.

And the race is on. As two strong personalities compete, mutual attraction grows…while a simple case of a runaway bride threatens to become an international incident. Will Matt and Natalie call off the competition-or discover an entirely new arrangement?

Zondervan ISBN 0310273056

Dear Baby Girl
By Jane Orcutt

From Publishers Weekly - Unlike most Christian fiction with prolife themes, this sweet, inspirational novella gently unfolds a tale of how God redeems tragedy for three people in difficult circumstances, without resorting to heavy-handed proselytizing...Orcutt's fellow Christian writers should take note that a message-driven novel can be much more than just a sermon.

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week. Find out about our new Summer Reading book giveaway while you're there!

Read Excerpts and Win!

I may be officially addicted to giving books away! Help! Save me!! (No, don't. I'm lovin' it.)

So here's the deal for today through Wednesday: I just finished reading Angela Hunt's new release, The Elevator, and couldn't put it down. It's a lovely hardcover novel from a best-selling author, and I bought it myself (not a publisher giveaway connected to a blog tour), but I'm giving it away so someone else can also enjoy it.

The thing is, since this is costing me the price of the book in addition to postage, there is more to getting entered in the drawing for it than just making a comment at the end of the post. This time around, a comment will also be considered as signing up for my author e-newsletter, which releases every other month. Each Forever Fiction newsletter contains an encouraging message, a special offer for newsletter subscribers only, and an update on my books and speaking schedule, as well as a peek into the writing life.

If this sounds a teensy bit better than brussel sprouts, go ahead and read on about a couple of new books and a way to read excerpts from them. Then offer a pertinent comment, along with your contact information, and you'll be in the drawing, as well as a new member of my newsletter list.

I don't know about you, but I enjoy reading book excerpts to see if a novel would be something up my alley. There's a spot on the web that features excerpts from two "good, clean, fun" reads each week. It's called Chapter-a-Week, and the site also has a chat forum so you can yak it up about your favorite reads. Below are this week's featured titles, followed by the link for Chapter-a-Week.

Anathema
By Colleen Coble

Welcome to Parke County, Indiana,
land of peaceful farms and covered bridges,
Amish quilts and horse drawn buggies . . . and murder.

After years of running, Hannah Schwartz has finally built a life for herself. Far from the insecure husband who bullied and abused her. Far from the close-knit Amish community who raised her, then shunned her. Still haunted by nightmare memories of her parents' murder . . . and the guilty secret that made her an anathema—a true outcast—from her friends and family.

Only love can bring her home again. Love for a child she had feared was lost forever.
And love for the peaceful people who shaped her life. But can love heal old wounds . . . or keep the community safe from a deadly danger?

DAWN'S LIGHT
Restoration Series—Book 4
Terri Blackstock

Book 4 in Terri Blackstock's popular Restoration Series is in stores now!

As the Pulses that caused the massive global power outage are finally coming to an end, thirteen-year-old Beth Branning witnesses a murder. Threatened by the killer, she keeps the matter to herself. But her silence could cost her life. Will technology return to normal in time to save the Brannings from their worst crisis yet?

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week, and to join our deeper discussion of these titles go to Chapter-a-Week Chat at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAWChat/ where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

If you enjoy Chapter-a-Week take the time to tell a friend how to sign up. It's easy and free and a great way to find books that fit each person's particular reading style.

Win a Copy of Healing Promises!

I featured Amy Wallace's Healing Promises a few weeks ago on my blog when it first released, but now I'm able to offer not one, but TWO, copies for giveaway. Just read through the blog post and offer a pertinent comment, along with some form of contact information, in order to be entered in the drawing!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Facing a new threat.

When FBI Agent Clint Rollins takes a bullet during a standoff, it might just save his life. But not even the ugly things he’s seen during his years working in the Crimes Against Children Unit could prepare him for the overwhelming powerlessness of hospital tests revealing an unexpected diagnosis. If only Sara weren’t retreating into doctor mode…he needs his wife now more than ever.

Frozen in fear.

Sara Rollins is an oncologist with a mission–beating cancer when she can, easing her patients’ suffering at the very least. Now the life of her tall Texan husband is at stake. She never let the odds steal her hope before, but in this case, the question of God’s healing promises is personal. Can she hold on to the truth she claimed to believe?

Faith under fire.

As Clint continues to track down a serial kidnapper despite his illness, former investigations haunt his nightmares, pushing him beyond solving the case into risking his life and career. Clint struggles to believe God is still the God of miracles. Especially when he needs not one, but two. Everything in his life is reduced to one all-important question: Can God be trusted?If you would like to read the first chapter, go HERE.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1601420102

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Amy Wallace is the author of Ransomed Dreams, a homeschool mom, and a self-confessed chocoholic. She is a graduate of the Gwinnett County Citizens Police Academy and a contributing author of several books, including God Answers Moms’ Prayers and Chicken Soup for the Soul Healthy Living Series: Diabetes. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia.

Mayla's Baaaack!

I'm a Virginia Smith fan. She is such a versatile and prolific writer. Don't you just love this cover? Her latest release finally brings us the sequel to her acclaimed debut novel, Just As I Am. Leave a pertinent comment at the end of this post, along with some form of contact information, for a chance to win a copy of Sincerely, Mayla!

The quirky convert to faith, Mayla Strong is back just as winsomely wierd as ever. Mayla definitely does not fit in anyone's box, but she's a true-blue believer struggling like the rest of us to handle her problem's God's way, not her own.

I loved this book as much or more than Just As I Am. Maybe because I can be a bit Mayla-ish in my attempts to "fix" things. This is a great summer read. Don't miss it!

Here's the back cover blurb:

Will Mayla Strong's life ever resemble normal? Just as she settles into a great place with God, everything else falls apart. In the course of a single week she loses her job, wrecks any chance at a relationship with Pastor Paul, gets the cold shoulder from her friend Stuart, and learns that Lindsey--the teenage sister of her late friend Alex--needs a safe place to stay. What good is being a control freak if nobody will do what you tell them?

Taking advantage of her newfound "vacation time," Mayla flees to her grandmother's house in Florida. But one by one, problems follow . . . literally. In this touching sequel to Just As I Am, quirky Mayla Strong comes face to face with the responsibilities and joys of friends and family. As she tries to help her loved ones, Mayla begins to realize that God has all the answers--the trick is letting go long enough for Him to prove it.

Big Book Giveaway!

I'm posting this awesome giveaway info for a friend who's starting a devotional blog. Read on to find out how you can qualify for a chance at an enormous bundle of books! There's something here for every age and taste.

A note from Dena Dyer:

Do you love books? Do you like free stuff? Me too! So I'm really excited to announce a HUGE book giveaway. I've recently begun writing monthly devotionals, called "Faith Lifts: Deep Topics with a Light Touch." I'm having a lot of fun writing them, and I'd love to build my subscriber list. You can see the first devotional here: http://denadyer.typepad.com/faith_lifts_newsletter_ar/

So here's the deal: if you sign up for my devotional to come in your in-box once a month (just enter your email in the box on the top left of my website, http://www.denadyer.com/), I'll enter your name in the drawing for the giveaway. And I promise, I won't share your email address with anyone. Nope. Never. Not gonna do it. :)

I'll hold the drawing on May 25, and ship the books to the winner as soon as I receive their mailing address. Here's what I'm giving away:

Non-fiction:
A hot-off-the- presses copy of Heavenly Humor for the Woman’s Soul by Martha Bolton, Anita Renfroe, Patsy Clairmont and others (including Dena Dyer)Fueled by Faith by Jennifer Kennedy Dean
Facing Every Mom’s Fears by Allie Pleiter
Let Your Life Count by Donna Partow
Building the Christian Family You Never Had by Mary DeMuth
Naked Fruit by Elisa Morgan
The Woman I’m Becoming by T. Suzanne Eller

Fiction:
Come, my Little Angel by Diane Noble
After the Leaves Fall by Nicole Baart
A Whisper of Freedom by Tricia Goyer
Quaker Summer by Lisa Samson
Fair is the Rose by Liz Curtis Higgs
Sweet Caroline by Rachel Hauck

Children’s media:
Two books in “The Adventures of Bailey and Canteen” series: Lost and Found and Canyon Rescue by Eddy Bolton, illustrated by Jerry Pittenger (books with read-along CD’s, which include 6 original songs)
Veggie Tales DVD (Where’s God When I’m Scared?) from their “Classics” series

New Chapter-a-Week Features!

Here are a couple of books to add to your spring reading pleasure.

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week and to join our deeper discussion go to Chapter-a-Week Chat at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAWChat/, where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

If you enjoy Chapter-a-Week, take the time to tell a friend how to sign up. It's easy and free and a great way to find books that fit each person's taste.

The Convenient Groom -- A Nantucket Love Story
By Denise Hunter

She wrote the book--literally--on finding the right mate. But does she really understand what love's about?

Five hours before her Nantucket beach wedding--and on the eve of her big book launch--celebrity marriage counselor Kate Lawrence has everything in place. Everything, that is, but the groom. She might not have a career, either, when her nationwide audience finds out their marriage guru has been left at the altar.

Enter Lucas Wright, who offers to stand in for the missing husband-to-be and marry her. Kate's desperate enough to agree--although she's sure this Mr. Wright is completely wrong for her. But can they pull it off? And why would Lucas marry her in the first place?
Could it be that "Dr. Kate" doesn't know the first thing about love?

A Whisper of Freedom
By Tricia Goyer

Espionage, faith, love, and an ancient treasure. The plot thickens in this third installment of the Chronicles of the Spanish Civil War series by acclaimed author Tricia Goyer.

The fighting between the Nationalists and the Republicans grinds on across Spain, threatening to destroy everything and everyone in its path. International volunteers Sophie, Philip, and Deion are slowly coming to grips with the fact that if they are going to survive to help the people of Spain, they must escape this foreign land soon. But the line between friends and enemies is increasingly blurred, and the journey out of the country is fraught with danger.

And then there's the gold. Walt has a plan for the treasure that he promises will help the people of Spain if Sophie will help him get it out of the country. But Michael is hot on their trail with plans of his own for the precious metal.

A Whisper of Freedom reminds readers that victory is often unsure in times of war. Danger and darkness can threaten to silence all courage and faith. But as this committed band of volunteers and Spanish patriots learns--hope is more precious than gold.

Awesome Book! Winter Haven by Athol Dickson

I won't be the least surprised when this book wins awards. I had the honor of being an endorser for this hard cover release from Bethany House. My thoughts didn't make the cover, but they said they'll use them in promo material. Either way, I'm delighted to have had the opportunity to pre-read this wonderful tale. Athol writes intriguingly deep in wonderfully simple ways. I need to learn how he does it!

Leave a pertinent comment, and your name will be in the drawing for a MUST-HAVE copy of this book. You're in for a treat!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Boys who never age, giants lost in time, mist that never rises, questions never asked...on the most remote of islands off the coast of Maine, history haunts the present and Vera Gamble wrestles with a past that will not yield. Will she find refuge there, or will her ghosts prevail on...Winter Haven

Eleven years ago, Vera Gamble's brother left their house never to be seen again. Until the day Vera gets a phone call that his body has been found...washed ashore in the tiny island town of Winter Haven, Maine. His only surviving kin, Vera travels north to claim the body...and finds herself tumbling into a tangled mystery. Her brother hasn't aged a day since last she saw him.

Determined to uncover what happened in those lost years, Vera soon discovers there are other secrets lurking in this isolated town. But Winter Haven's murky past now seems bound to come to light as one woman seeks the undeniable and flooding light of truth.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764201646

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Athol Dickson's university-level training in painting, sculpture, and architecture was followed by a long career as an architect then his decision several years ago to devote full time to writing.Athol Dickson’s writing has been favorably compared to the work of Octavia Butler(Publisher’s Weekly), Daphne du Maurier (Cindy Crosby, FaithfulReader.com) and FlanneryO’Connor (The New York Times).

His They Shall See God was a Christy Award finalist and his River Rising was a Christy Award winner, selected as one of the Booklist Top Ten Christian Novels of 2006 and a finalist for Christianity Today's Best Novel of 2006.He and his wife, Sue, live in Southern California. Visit AtholDickson.com for more information.

The Latest Chiller from Melanie Wells

I'm jazzed about Melanie's new release. This is a very cool, groundbreaking series in supernatural suspense. If you haven't read the first two, treat yourself to the whole set! Oh, and respond to this post with a relevant comment, provide some form of contact information, and you may win your very own copy!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

As nasty as I knew Peter Terry to be, I never expected him to start kidnapping kids. Much less a sweet, funny little boy with nothing to protect him but a few knock-kneed women, two rabbits and a staple gun…

It’s psychology professor Dylan Foster’s favorite day of the academic year…graduation day. And her little friend Christine Zocci’s sixth birthday. But the joyful summer afternoon goes south when a little boy is snatched from a neighborhood park, setting off a chain of events that seen to lead nowhere.

The police are baffled, but Christine’s eerie connection with the kidnapped child sends Dylan on a chilling investigation of her own. Is the pasty, elusive stranger Peter Terry to blame? Exploding light bulbs, the deadly buzz of a Texas rattlesnake, and the vivid, disturbing dreams of a little girl are just pieces of a long trail of tantalizing clues leading Dylan in her dogged search for the truth.

“Like water rising to a boil, My Soul To Keep’s suspense sneaks up on you…before you know it, you’re in the thick if a frightening drama…Superbly crafted.”---ROBERT LIPARULO, author of Deadfall, Germ, and Comes A Horseman

“Written with passion, a good dose of humor and, dare I say it, soul, this novel reminds us that we all, with grace and good fortune, bumble our way toward salvation.”---K. L. COOK, author of Late Call and The Girl From Charmelle

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1590524284

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A native of the Texas panhandle and the child of musicians, Melanie Wells attended Southern Methodist University on a music scholarship (she's a fiddle player), and later completed graduate degrees in counseling psychology and Biblical studies at Our Lady of the Lake University and Dallas Theological Seminary.

She has taught at the graduate level at both OLLU and DTS, and has been in private practice as a counselor since 1992. She is the founder and director of LifeWorks counseling associates in Dallas, Texas, a collaborative community of creative therapists.

When the Day of Evil Comes is her first published work of fiction, and the first of a three-book series. The second work, The Soul Hunter was released in May, 2006. Melanie lives and writes in Dallas.

I'm Excited About Healing Promises!

Amy Wallace's new book, Healing Promises, is a keeper! She balances emotional intensity with finely honed suspense in a story that will stick in your memory long after you close the last page.

You can find out more about Amy and her books by checking out her fabulous web site chock full of fun and great information about keeping kids safe.

About the Book:

Facing a new threat.

When FBI Agent Clint Rollins takes a bullet during a standoff, it might just save his life. But not even the ugly things he’s seen during his years working in the Crimes Against Children Unit could prepare him for the overwhelming powerlessness of hospital tests revealing an unexpected diagnosis. If only Sara weren’t retreating into doctor mode…he needs his wife now more than ever.

Frozen in fear.

Sara Rollins is an oncologist with a mission–beating cancer when she can, easing her patients’ suffering at the very least. Now the life of her tall Texan husband is at stake. She never let the odds steal her hope before, but in this case, the question of God’s healing promises is personal. Can she hold on to the truth she claimed to believe?

Faith under fire.

As Clint continues to track down a serial kidnapper despite his illness, former investigations haunt his nightmares, pushing him beyond solving the case into risking his life and career. Clint struggles to believe God is still the God of miracles. Especially when he needs not one, but two. Everything in his life is reduced to one all-important question: Can God be trusted?

Buy It Now! http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=420107&netp_id=506014&event=ESRCN&item_code=WW&view=details

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Amy Wallace is the author of Ransomed Dreams, a homeschool mom, and a self-confessed chocoholic. She is a graduate of the Gwinnett County Citizens Police Academy and a contributing author of several books, including God Answers Moms’ Prayers and Chicken Soup for the Soul Healthy Living Series: Diabetes. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia.

Amber Morn by Brandilyn Collins

The prolific Brandilyn Collins delivers her final nail-biting installment of the Kanner Lake series!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The whole thing couldn’t have taken more than sixty seconds.

Bailey hung on to the counter, dazed. If she let go, she’d collapse—and the twitching fingers of the gunman would pull the trigger. The rest of her group huddled in frozen shock.

Dear God, help us! Tell me this is a dream . . .

The shooter’s teeth clenched. “Anybody who moves is dead.”

On a beautiful Saturday morning the nationally read “Scenes and Beans” bloggers gather at Java Joint for a special celebration. Chaos erupts when three gunmen burst in and take them all hostage. One person is shot and dumped outside.

Police Chief Vince Edwards must negotiate with the desperate trio. The gunmen insist on communicating through the “comments” section of the blog—so all the world can hear their story. What they demand, Vince can’t possibly provide. But if he doesn’t, over a dozen beloved Kanner Lake citizens will die...

Amber Morn is the climactic finale to Collins’ widely read Kanner Lake series. All first three titles in the series, Violet Dawn, Coral Moon, and Crimson Eve, were bestsellers. Library Journal placed Crimson Eve on its Best Books of 2007 list, and hailed it the “Best Christian suspense of 2007.” A few early reviews of Amber Morn:
“… essential reading … a harrowing hostage drama.” – Library Journal
“… heart-pounding … breakneck pace … satisfying and meaningful ending.” – RT Bookreviews
“This cataclysmic ending left me breathless … Kanner Lake is the Best Suspense Series of 2007/2008.” – deenasbooks.blogspot.com
“Collins has saved the best for a last .. a powerful ensemble performance.” -- BookshelfReview.com
“… a staccato tempo … Sometimes you just have to close the book in order to come up for air.” – Dale Lewis
“…a masterpiece of page-turning suspense with a cast of dozens.” – Peg Phifer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Brandilyn Collins is a best-selling novelist known for her trademark Seatbelt Suspense™. These harrowing crime thrillers have earned her the tagline “Don’t forget to b r e a t h e …®”

Brandilyn writes for Zondervan, the Christian division of HarperCollins Publishers, and is currently at work on her 19th book. Her first, A Question of Innocence, was a true crime published by Avon in 1995. Its promotion landed her on local and national TV and radio, including the Phil Donahue and Leeza talk shows. She’s also known for her distinctive book on fiction-writing techniques, Getting Into Character: Seven Secrets a Novelist Can Learn From Actors (John Wiley & Sons), and often teaches at writers conferences. Brandilyn blogs at Forensics and Faith. Visit her Websiteto read the first chapters of all her books.