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January Author Newsletter

1/30/2015

Life Stuff:

First of all... Happy New Year! I hope it's been great for you so far! :)

This is going to be an abbreviated version of the monthly author newsletter. I spent the last 2 weeks traveling with my family, so I'm still trying to catch up on everything I left at home. :)

And if you won a book here in the past month or two, don't worry: they're coming! I forgot to mail them before I went out of town, but I will try to get them to you ASAP!

Writing Stuff:

I'm thrilled to announce that my novella won the 2014 ACFW First Impressions contest in its category! Thanks to all of y'all for your support and prayers as I continue this writing adventure. My writing plans for January are to finish polishing my latest, then possibly starting something new. We shall see. :)

Reading Stuff:

December was crazily busy, but here is what I had time to read:

And I'm currently reading:

Prayer Request Stuff:

Question of the Month:

My requests:

My friend, Heidi - She's having surgery tomorrow (1/30) to drain fluid in her chest. Also, her cancer markers were high at her check up.

My dad - Trying to lose weight and get off the meds that are giving him trouble.

My brother Jimmy and his wife, Autumn - prayers for them as they raise their new baby. Prayers for Autumn who is still healing from giving birth.

Carl and Becky G. - good friends who just had a baby. Prayers for them and their new daughter.

My family - safety as they travel and perform.

Ryan (my Hubbins) - taking leadership school for the next month and a half. Prayers that he will do well.

Reader Requests:

Maxie A. - Requests prayer for her brother and his many health problems. (See her comment below for specifics.)

(Email them to me or leave a comment and I'll add them here!)

It's the time of year to make those New Year Resolutions. Personally, I've resolved to:

Set aside time to read my Bible and pray every day.
Treat my writing like a real job instead of a hobby.
Read more. (Yay!)
And worry less.

How about you? Leave a comment below!

Last Month's Winners:

"A Soft Breath of Wind" - Sonja*
"A Wild Goose Chase Christmas" - Debbie Rhoades*

All winners have a month to reply to my emails or I will draw a new winner. * = winner has claimed her prize. Be sure to check back soon for this month's giveaways and reviews.

Thanks for reading and God bless!

10 Comments

Review and Giveaway: "The Fragrance of Geraniums" by Alicia G. Ruggieri

1/27/2015

5 Comments

Book Description:

Told from multiple perspectives, this is a powerful story of three women – of the threads of mercy that connect them – and of heart-wrenching sorrows alchemized by the Heavenly Father’s overwhelming redeeming grace.

Rhode Island - 1934

A GIRL
Grace Picoletti has nothing going for her – but she’s determined to succeed in life, nonetheless. Born to severe destitution, she claws her way up from the pit of family shame and secrets. She avoids close friendships – even with the likable, persistent Paulie Giorgi...

A WOMAN
Despite her own agonizing emotional pain, childless Emmeline Kinner reaches out to a young woman so far beneath her. She could never have known whom else God would set in her path through her friendship with Grace...

A MOTHER
Long ago, Sarah Picoletti resigned herself to a loveless, abusive life – and she believes that her daughter Grace must inherit the same fate. Yet Sarah’s own soul cries out for the blessed peace and hope of which the radio minister speaks...

A multi-generational Christian women's novel set during the U.S. Great Depression of the 1930s. (Also appropriate for older teens.)

My Thoughts:

All I can say is… Wow, what a journey.

When I agreed to review this book and picked it up for the first time, I had no idea what would be waiting for me between the pages. This was a fantastic story. It’s more than the stories of the three women listed on the back cover: Grace, Emmeline, and Sarah. It’s the journey of a dozen characters – living, breathing characters that jump off the page and into your heart. As a reader, I felt their pain deeply and rejoiced when they triumphed over their circumstances.

I absolutely loved everything about this book. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything quite like it. I found it to be very authentic and well-researched. I felt like I’d slipped back in time to 1934 in Rhode Island. Alicia’s writing style is lyrical and haunting, perfect for the inspirational historical novel that she has penned.

Again, I truly enjoyed it. I’d give it ten stars if I could! Can’t wait to see her next book.

(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an unbiased, honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)

Giveaway!

To enter, just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below. (If the link in the email doesn't work, just click over to www.AnnaWeaverBooks.com and enter there.) This giveaway will end February 3rd. Thanks for entering and God bless!

Entry -Form

5 Comments

Review and Giveaway: "Dubiosity" by Christy Barritt

1/20/2015

5 Comments

Book Description:

Savannah Harris vowed to leave behind her old life as an intrepid investigative reporter. But when a friend raises suspicions about two migrant workers who’ve gone missing from the sleepy coastal town Savannah calls home, her curiosity spikes.

As ever more eerie incidents begin afflicting the area, each works to draw Savannah out of her seclusion and raise the stakes—for both Savannah and the surrounding community. Even as Savannah’s new boarder, Clive Miller, makes her feel things she thought long forgotten, she suspects he’s hiding something too, and he’s not the only one. Doubts collide in Savannah’s mind: Who can she really trust?

As secrets emerge and danger closes in, Savannah must choose between faith and uncertainty. One wrong decision might spell the end…not just for her, but for everyone around her.

Will she unravel the mystery in time, or will doubt get the best of her?

My Thoughts:

Wow, what a ride! I've been a fan of Christy Barritt for years and her newest novel doesn't disappoint!

This inspirational read is an equal mix of mystery and romantic suspense. It seems like everybody has a secret. Oh, and there's a psychotic stalker/killer on the loose. The author did a great job by keeping you guessing who the bad guy was through the entire book. The tension was sky-high.

I loved the characters, especially the hero and heroine. They both had to overcome obstacles to reach their happy ending, but they definitely earned it.

I love this author's writing style. It sucks you right into the story. No lie, there were times that I sat down to read one chapter, only the find that 50 pages had flown by.

There were also some great spiritual truths presented here. All in all, I loved this book. Can't wait to see more from this author.

(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an unbiased, honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)

My Rating: 5 stars!

Giveaway!

To enter, just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below. (If the link in the email doesn't work, just click over to www.AnnaWeaverBooks.com and enter there.) This giveaway will end January 27th. Thanks for entering and God bless!

Entry -Form

5 Comments

Review and Giveaway: "A Most Inconvenient Marriage" by Regina Jennings

1/13/2015

11 Comments

Book Description:

Abigail Stuart Thought She was Jeremiah Calhoun's Widow.
But Jeremiah Calhoun Is Very Handsome, Very Alive, and Very Perplexed.
Most Inconvenient Indeed.

With few options of her own, nurse Abigail Stuart agrees to marry her patient, a gravely wounded soldier calling himself Jeremiah Calhoun. They arrange a quick ceremony before he dies, giving Abigail the rights to his Ozark farm and giving Jeremiah the peace of knowing someone will care for his ailing sister after he's gone--a practical solution for both of them.

After the war, Abigail fulfills her side of the bargain--until the real Jeremiah Calhoun shows up, injured but definitely alive, and wastes no time in challenging Abigail's story. Abigail is flummoxed. After months of claiming to be his widow, how can she explain that she's never seen this Jeremiah Calhoun before? How can she convince him that she isn't trying to steal his farm? And will she find a way to stay, even though this practical arrangement has turned into a most inconvenient marriage?

My Thoughts:

This book was an absolute delight to read! So entertaining, from beginning to end.

I loved the chemistry between the main characters... There were several times I laughed out loud at some of their shenanigans. In fact, all the characters were well-developed and each brought their own flavor to the story.

The tension was thick and well-sustained, keeping me reading late into the night. Also, the author wasn't afraid to tackle the tough questions and issues that took place as the nation began to rebuild after the Civil War. Kudos for that.

This is my favorite of Regina's books, but it won't be the last.

(I received an e-copy of this book through Netgalley and Bethany House in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)

My Rating: 5 stars!

Giveaway Time!

Since I won a copy of this book from Relz Reviews, I'm paying it forward and giving it away! To enter, just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below. (If the link in the email doesn't work, just click over to www.AnnaWeaverBooks.com and enter there.) This giveaway will end January 20th. Thanks for entering and God bless!

Entry -Form

11 Comments

Review: "The Wishing Season" by Denise Hunter

1/7/2015

0 Comments

Book Description:

Living side-by-side, a fledgling chef and a big-hearted contractor find a delicious attraction.

Trouble is, their chemistry could spoil their dreams.

Spirited PJ McKinley has the touch when it comes to food. Her dream of opening her own restaurant is just one building short of reality. So when a Chapel Springs resident offers her beloved ancestral home to the applicant with the best plan for the house, PJ believes it’s a contest she was meant to win.

Contractor Cole Evans is confident, professional, and swoon-worthy — but this former foster kid knows his life could have turned out very differently. When Cole discovers the contest, he believes his home for foster kids in transition has found its saving grace. All he has to do is convince the owner that an out-of-towner with a not-for-profit enterprise is good for the community.

But when the eccentric philanthropist sees PJ and Cole’s proposals, she makes an unexpected decision: the pair will share the house for a year to show what their ideas are made of. Now, with Cole and the foster kids upstairs and PJ and the restaurant below, day-to-day life has turned into out-and-out competition — with some seriously flirtatious hallway encounters on the side. Turns out in this competition, it’s not just the house on the line, it’s their hearts.

My Thoughts:

This was my first book by Denise, but it will not be the last! I was completely engrossed in this inspirational contemporary romance. The author has created unforgettable characters that tug at your heart strings, making it impossible not to care how their story turns out. I loved how this story came to life and didn't let me go for a moment. I also liked the elements of faith, just enough to make you think without getting too "preachy." And the cover is just gorgeous! I'm definitely looking forward to finding more of this author's books.

My Rating: 5 stars!

(I received an e-copy of this book through Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)

Get Your Copy Here:

0 Comments

Review: "Hope for the Holidays - Historical Collection" by Mary Connealy, Ruth Logan Herne, Myra Johnson, and Julie Lessman

1/7/2015

0 Comments

Book Description:

Four award-winning and best-selling inspirational authors take you back to times gone by with this heart-warming collection of old-fashioned romance at its best! From 20th century Boston to the forested hills of 19th century Idaho, these talented romance writers offer a taste of faith, hope and love in this delightful collection.

"Sophie’s Other Daughter" by Mary Connealy

Laura McClellen is just answering a call for her big sister, Doctor Beth, at the Reeve's home. Ike Reeves shows up for a surprise Christmas visit, exhausted and filthy. Ike claims the right to escort Laura home and outlaws after Ike turn a simple ride into a fight for their lives.

"A Town Called Christmas" by Ruth Logan Herne

When gruff English pioneer Edward Stillwell offers a former prostitute a job, he gets more than he bargained for: a wagon train more! With winter rolling in, can Sylvie’s faith, hope and optimism be just what the guilt-laden Idaho rancher needs to love Christmas—and people-- again?

"Designs on Love," by Myra Johnson.

Ranch foreman Jacob Collins has had designs on Vera Mae Beasley since their schooldays. When the pretty seamstress returns home to settle her late family's affairs, Jacob hopes his Christmas surprise will win her heart and convince her to stay.

"A Whisper of Hope" by Julie Lessman

With a husband dead set against adoption, Charity O’Connor Dennehy has barely a whisper of hope for more children, but if hope doesn’t disappoint … will it be enough to find a precious bundle under her tree?

My Thoughts:

I loved this novella collection! This book consists of 4 inspirational historical romance novellas that are each unique and enjoyable. I've been a hardcore fan of both Mary and Julie for several years, but Ruth and Myra are new to me. I truly enjoyed their stories and styles, making this book a win on all counts. Loved it, ladies! Can't wait to see more.

My rating: 5 stars!

Buy a copy here:

0 Comments

Review: "In Time for Christmas" by Heather Blanton

1/7/2015

0 Comments

Book Description:

Charlene needs a miracle. God has one waiting…a hundred years in the past.

In Time for Christmas -- a Novella, is the story of Charlene Williams, a woman trapped in a dangerously abusive marriage. Disappointed that God hasn’t gotten her out of it, or even hears her prayers at all, she has shut down emotionally. When husband Dale becomes suspicious of her daily chats with the mailman, he whisks her out of town and abandons her on his family’s ranch—an isolated, dilapidated place no one has lived on for over forty years. With the promise that he’ll be back in a few days, he knocks her unconscious and leaves.

Charlene wakes up on the ranch—a hundred years in the past. Almost instantly she is drawn to Billy Page, Dale’s great grandfather. The connection is powerful and mysterious, but should she risk falling in love with a ghost? What’s going on here? Is Charlene dead, dreaming, in a coma, or simply experiencing a gift from her heavenly father?

She’ll learn one thing for certain: God does see the tears of his children. (PG-13 for Violence)

My Thoughts:

What does time travel, inspirational romance, a wounded heroine, and an abusive monster have in common? This novella, of course! I've never read a book quite like this one, but I really enjoyed it. I loved the underlying message: God cares about our problems and will rescue his children, but only in his way and his timing.

I really liked the heroine. She seemed real and authentic... not a weak and powerless cut-out copy like some romantic heroines can be. The villain was believable and quite evil. I hated him thoroughly. I fell in love with the hero, of course.

All in all, an intriguing and enjoyable read. I highly recommend it.

My Rating: 4 stars!

Amazon Link:

0 Comments

January Author Newsletter

Life Stuff:

Writing Stuff:

Reading Stuff:

Prayer Request Stuff:

Question of the Month:

Last Month's Winners:

Review and Giveaway: "The Fragrance of Geraniums" by Alicia G. Ruggieri

Book Description:

My Thoughts:

Giveaway!

Review and Giveaway: "Dubiosity" by Christy Barritt

Book Description:

My Thoughts:

Giveaway!

Review and Giveaway: "A Most Inconvenient Marriage" by Regina Jennings

Book Description:

My Thoughts:

Giveaway Time!

Review: "The Wishing Season" by Denise Hunter

Book Description:

My Thoughts:

Get Your Copy Here:

Review: "Hope for the Holidays - Historical Collection" by Mary Connealy, Ruth Logan Herne, Myra Johnson, and Julie Lessman

Book Description:

My Thoughts:

Buy a copy here:

Review: "In Time for Christmas" by Heather Blanton

Book Description:

My Thoughts:

Amazon Link:

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