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Genre:
Historical

Widow Of Gettysburg
Heroines Behind The Lines: Civil War book 2
by Jocelyn Green

-From the back cover-

Everything is lost at the hands of
the Confederatearmy as war
rips through Gettysburg.

The farm of Union widow Liberty Holloway is confiscated by the enemy and converted into a Confederate field hospital, bring Liberty face-to-face with unspeakable suffering. While Liberty's future crumbles, the past comes rushing back to Bella, Liberty's hired help and a former slave. Bella fins herself surrounded by Southern soldiers – and one reporter learns her secret.

In the wake of shattered homes and broken bodies, Liberty and Bella struggle to pick up the fragments the battle has left behind. Will Liberty be defined by the tragedy in her life? Or will she be able to trust God and the Confederate soldier who may not be what he seems?

Become immersed in a time when the reality of
war and prejudice is met by unfailing love.

Widow of Gettysburg is a work if fiction inspired by first-person accounts from women whose letters and journals offer a peek into the lives of women living in Gettysburg during the battle and its aftermath. This is the second book in the series Heroines Behind The Lines: Civil War, offering an inside look at women's contributions during times of war. For more information about the series, visit: www.heroinesbehindthelines.com.

Another soul-stirring and heart-rending story from Jocelyn Green.

I absolutely cannot believe how much Jocelyn Green packed into 360+ pages. Not only the detailed history, but the raw emotion, and valuable lessons that left me convicted.

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This Book earned a 5 Bark rating.

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Jocelyn Green

Visit Jocelyn's Website
HERE

Once again the author takes us on a journey through history that is so detailed and rich that the reader feels like they are there. You can smell the smoke, feel the fear and horror, see the lines of the injured, and taste the sweat and hunger. All of the senses are engaged and the reader finds themselves to immersed in the story that when they you to put it down for awhile you find yourself thinking about the characters.

Honestly, I was so emotionally wrung out after reading that I didn't pick up another book for awhile. Instead, I thought on the book and wondered what I would have done in the character's places. That was part of the story that convicted me the most, could I have done what they did? Could I help with amputations like Libbie? I rather realized what a modern wimp, and even coward, that I really am. But a recurring theme that several of the characters repeated gave me a little hope for myself, it is a quote from a diary entry made July 7th, 1863 by Sarah Broadhead, a housewife and volunteer nurse in Gettysburg. “...We do not know until tried what we are capable of.” Another convicting theme is; will we be defined by tragedy and be victims of circumstance or will we rise above, and as the characters say “Go forth”?

The vast amount of research done and a love of history are evident on every page. Jocelyn Green is a master of historical fiction. It was hard to believe that Wedded To War was her debut novel and that Widow Of Gettysburg is only her second. The reader feels as if they are a part of life during the Civil War and not just reading a bunch of dry and boring dates in a history class. Pieces of history that the average modern person might not think about. For instance, I had never thought of the fear a former slave would feel when the Confederates entered Pennsylvania, a Free state, and yet Bella hides for hours in a barrel in the cellar.

Readers will get a taste of the true horrors of war and yet the author manages to tell it without leaving readers in complete shock. Truly told but thoughtfully and sensitively written.

Widow Of Gettysburg is both entertaining and inspiring. A must read for any fan of historical fiction or the Civil War. This reader is anxiously awaiting the next book in the Heroines Behind The Lines: Civil War, Yankee In Atlanta.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Widow Of Gettysburg by Jocelyn Green a 5 Bark rating.

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Note: Due to some of the historical facts I wouldn't recommend this book for anyone under 16. Life wasn't easy for slaves nor is war a cakewalk.

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Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: River North; New Edition edition (April 12, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0802405770
ISBN-13: 978-0802405777

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WORD Wednesday 8-21-13

8/21/2013

2 Who can utter the mighty acts of the Lord? who can shew forth all his praise?

Psalms 106:2 KJV

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Free Friday - A Home In The West (Amish/Historical)

8/16/2013

A Home In The West
The Amish Of Apple Grove
by Lori Copeland & Virginia Smith

Journey back to 1858 Berlin, Ohio, in this free short story e-romance from The Amish of Apple Grove series by Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith. For 19-year-old Jonas Switzer, the promise of a productive life as an Amish farmer is only as real as a dream on the western horizon. Living on the charity of the Bylers, and with no claim to a family farm, Jonas’s future depends on a bold plan and an ambitious move. He also longs to catch the eye of Caroline Hersberger, the most beautiful young woman in the village, and share his dream with her. Will Matthew Kennel woo her first? Will she reject Jonas outright? Only God knows, and only He can provide Jonas with a godly wife and a home in the West.

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File Size: 174 KB
Print Length: 15 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (July 1, 2013)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
ASIN: B00D6SCXY4

ALWAYS check the price before clicking
to make sure it is still Free ($0.00)

Lori Copeland

Visit Lori's Website
HERE

Virginia Smith

Visit Virginia's Website
HERE

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Book Review - Whispers On Shadow Bay by Raquel Byrnes

8/15/2013

Genre:
Gothic Romance/Mystery

Whispers On Shadow Bay
A Noble Island Mystery book 1
by Raquel Byrnes

-From the back cover-

Ejected from her privileged life, Rosetta comes to Noble Island with a broken heart and shaken faith. She is enticed by hope in the arms of the dark and brooding Simon Hale, but people keep dying at Shadow Bay Hall, and Rosetta hears something in the walls.

Simon Hale find the reclusive Rosetta both beautiful and intriguing, but when she seeks out the truth behind Shadow Bay hall's unexplained happenings, he is torn between hope for the future and his need to protect a dangerous secret.

With dark forces determined to keep truth at bay, Rosetta and Simon fight to uncover lies that imprison the island with fear. His wife's death, tangled memories, a Romany feud, Rosetta must decide if she us strong enough to discover what's behind The Whispers on Shadow Bay.

What a book! A completely satisfying read!

I had thought the Gothic genre had died out, or nearly so, years ago. Boy, was a wrong! Raquel Byrnes has it down perfectly!

Written in the tradition of British author, Mary Stewart, Whispers On Shadow Bay is everything a Gothic Romance should be, with the added bonus that the heroine and hero are Christians.
I had wanted to read this book when I first heard about it so when I got the chance I bought it. It didn't disappoint at all. It was everything I had hoped it would be.

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This Book earned a 5 Bark rating.

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Raquel Byrnes

Visit Raquel's Website
HERE

The best single-word to describe Whispers On Shadow Bay is 'Satisfying'. Every part of this story is satisfying. At the end of an Agatha Christie, Mary Stewart, or L.M. Montgomery book you come away with a self-satisfied, even smug, feeling. Even though, as the reader, you had no part in the crafting of the story you still get that feeling. Of course the accompanying feeling is also that let-down when you know the story is done and you can't visit with those characters any longer. I suppose that is why we come back and read and re-read our favorite stories. Whispers On Shadow Bay is one that will definitely be on my re-read list.

Whispers On Shadow Bay has it all. A beautiful heroine who is both strong and yet needs the dashing, brooding hero. An old fashioned murder, who killed the hero's first wife? Spooky mystery, who is Lucien and who put the ghost line at the cemetery? Jealousy, just what is Cousin Phillip's angle in all this anyway? Gypsies, did they have ties to all this and why do some of them hate Simon? And all of this set on a storm swept gorgeous island off the coast of Washington.

Will Rosetta stand by Simon and his daughter? Can Simon protect his daughter and the woman he loves? Will the two of them be able to solve the murder and put the past behind them so they can build a future together? I suggest finding a copy of Whispers On Shadow Bay ASAP if you want to find out

Mystery, Danger, Romance, and some lessons in doing what is right no matter what make this book a definite must read. I am anxiously awaiting Secrets At Crescent Point, the next book in the Noble Island Mystery series.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Whispers On Shadow Bay by Raquel Byrnes a 5 Bark rating.

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Paperback: 354 pages
Publisher: White Rose Publishing (January 25, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1611161924
ISBN-13: 978-1611161922

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WORD Wednesday 8-14-13

8/14/2013

1 Comment

24 And in controversy they shall stand in judgment; and they shall judge it according to my judgments: and they shall keep my laws and my
statutes in all mine assemblies; and they shall hallow my sabbaths.

Ezekiel 44:24 KJV

1 Comment

Winner!

8/13/2013

2 Comments

The winner of the Beaded Bookmark (inspired by Prairie Song) by Jasmine Augustine is...

Linda Finn
Entry #63

Congratulations Linda! Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog!

Please email me you mailing address at telltalebookreviews(at)gmail(dot)com, just replace
the (at) with an @ and the (dot) with a . and I will get the Bookmark out to you.

2 Comments

New Winner!

8/12/2013

The previous 1st prize winner didn't contact me so...
The NEW winner of the Box of Goodies (including Guardian Of The Flame by T.L. Higley) is...

Lisa Capehart
Entry #314

Congratulations Lisa! Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog!

Please email me you mailing address at telltalebookreviews(at)gmail(dot)com, just replace
the (at) with an @ and the (dot) with a . and I will get the Box out to you.

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Blog Tour - King by R.J. Larson -- Finale

8/9/2013

Grand Finale!

See the entire tour at a glance...

King

by RJ Larson
Paperback, 352 pages
Published July 1, 2013 by Bethany House

Akabe of Siphra is certain his people are insane.

Why have they made him a king?
What, in the name of peacetime boredom do kings do?

Frustrated by a lengthy silence from his Creator, the Infinite, Akabe decides to prove himself as king by undertaking a monumental task, his own lifelong dream: Rebuild the Infiniteâ€™s temple in Siphra.

But Akabeâ€™s impulsive decision sweeps him into a storm of controversy. The Infiniteâ€™s enemies join forces in Siphra, and beyond, conspiring to destroy the emerging templeâ€”and to kill their king and his mysterious new queen.

Goodreads * Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Bethany House

R.J. Larson is the author of numerous devotionals featured in publications such as Women's Devotional Bible and Seasons of a Woman's Heart. She lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with her husband and their two sons. Prophet marks her debut in the fantasy genre.

Website * Blog * Facebook * Twitter

Map Puzzle Tour... Follow the tour to reveal the entire map!

22 - Launch!
Kien (Judge cover) is the original owner of the map... the scrolling mimics his sword...

23 â€“ ADDLibrarian - Review

My own perceptions of God as portrayed by the Old Testament have been challenged.

- Rose & Beps Blog - "Compass: The Dream" RJ Larson

"...if anyone had told me that I would be writing Inspirational fantasy I would have laughed, shaken my head, and offered them chocolate..."

24 â€“ TheWonderings of One Person - Review

This last book in her series is simply amazing in its passionate pursuit of wholeness through obedience.

25 â€“ TheOther World "Beginnings" RJ Larson

"Kingâ€™s main character, Akabe of Siphra, first appeared in book one, Prophet, as an honorable rebel-hunter roaming wild in the mountains east of Parne."

26 â€“ Pieces of Whimsy - "Romance & Action: The Balancing Act"

"This symmetry between lovely gowns, awesome weaponry, and pondering the eternal Word..."

28 â€“ The(Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl

"Mythical-seeming beasts and monsters from Earthâ€™s own ancient legends'

29 â€“ JoJoâ€™sCorner

I give KING by RJ Larson *****5/5 STARS*****

- Christyâ€™s Cozy Corner - Ela's Griddle Bread

30 â€“ Proud Book Nerd

"Akabeâ€™s task, which threatens to be thankless indeed, is to unify his country, restore peace to his people, and reestablish Siphraâ€™s reputation among neighboring countries."

31 â€“ KellyPâ€™s Blog

"Belaalâ€™s ruler is a god-king named Bel-Tygeon who believes that his own will supersedes all others, including his Creator, The Infinite."

- JL Mbewe

Prophet is such an interesting read... the author has created this awesome world that springs to life with great characters from Elaâ€™s little sister Tzana to Kien to the destroyer called Pet.

1 â€“ Worthy 2Read - Reviews of Prophet, Judge & King

Larson creates a believable world inspired by the Old Testament. The narration is rich and the characters are well-developed. The plot is suspenseful, drawing the reader in as Ela grows as the Infiniteâ€™s prophet.

2 â€“ Mommasezâ€¦

4 â€“ Backing Books

Can we follow God in faith even when he seems silent to our prayers? This is something that we often struggle with and that Larson approaches in her newest novel, King.

5 â€“ Shannonâ€™sBlog

With likable characters, a fresh world, and a powerful measure of spirituality, King is a fine addition to Christian fantasy.

- Melâ€™s Shelves Review

This is a well written book with lots of great quotes and thoughts. I found myself stopping a lot to digest the words I had just read. I loved the ending and this is a book that I highly recommend!!

6 - A Year of Jubilee Reviews

7 â€“ Tressaâ€™sWishful Thinking - Review

You can see a lot of similarities or situations based off of different Bible stories. The circumstances and resolutions are not the same though. This is a different world with different characters and other factors,

- A Tiffyfitâ€™s Reading Corner - What's Next?

Exiles

Two tribes will close the mapâ€™s circle in two spin-offs now underway in my imagination and in my computer. Working titles...

Queen

8 â€“ TellTale Book Reviews

I sincerely hope that R.J. Larson continues writing more of this style of book, either continuing the series or possible writing another one. Fantasy isn't my top choice in genres but R.J.'s books have been and will continue to be at the top of my wishlist!

9 â€“ Grand Finale

The map... complete!

Giveaway:

Print copy of Prophet, Judge & King. USA, Canada, UK only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Book Review - King by R.J. Larson

8/8/2013

King
Books Of The Infinite book 3
by R.J. Larson

-From the back cover-

Akabe of Siphra, I have brought your enemies low
and lifted you from the dirt.

Against his wishes and desires, Akabe Garric has been chosen by his people to be king. A warrior at heart, he'd never dreamed of such a swift, unexpected rise to power. Determined to prove his worth to the citizens of Munra and honor his Creator, Akabe undertakes a monumental task: to rebuild the Infinite's Holy House in Siphra.

Only this I ask: Restore My temple and let Me
dwell again among the people.

Akabe soon learns that the land he needs is held by the Thaenfalls, known Atea-worshipers who will give up their claim only if he marries into their line. Though he seeks direction from the Infinite, his pleas are met with silence. Frustrated, Akabe makes an impulsive decision, sweeping his nation into a lethal storm that threatens his plans for the temple. As questions of love and faith become tangled with lies, ancient feuds, and treacherous plots, can Akabe, his mysterious queen, and his trusted friends Ela and Kien Lantec find the Indefinite's path … or will they fail as so many others have before?

Will your faith hold strong when I am silent?
Child, can you be My king?

Another thrilling story from a master of Fantasy!

Once again R.J. Larson has crafted a story that tells Biblical truths and even Bible stories in such an entertaining manner that the reader doesn't feel preached at.

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This Book earned a 5 Bark rating.

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Visit R.J.'s Website
HERE

I absolutely enjoyed the hints of Job and many other stories that I recognized from Sunday School and my own Bible reading. In many ways King convicted me about praying while awaiting God's direction and following it to the letter when it does come. In some ways this book reminded of the song Smell The Color 9, even if God doesn't speak to you with a burning bush, or in this case a vine wood branch, he will still take you where you need to be. Akabe doesn't exactly wait on God patiently and thus he learns another equally important fact: God can use even our mistakes for our greater good, and even that of others.

This book is packed with vivid settings and imagery. I felt like I was there watching the sword fights, seeing the damage done to a certain enemy's palace, you could feel the characters fear, and Ela's pain at the continued rebellion against the Infinite. Each of your senses along with your emotions will be engaged in this thrilling book

Just as well written and page turning as it's predecessors, King is a book that will entertain and teach at the same time. I, honestly, could hardly put it down. I just HAD to know what was going to happen next. Even now several days after I finished reading it I am still thinking off an on about the characters or something I learned.

I sincerely hope that R.J. Larson continues writing more of this style of book, either continuing the series or possible writing another one. Fantasy isn't my top choice in genres but R.J.'s books have been and will continue to be at the top of my wishlist!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives King by R.J. Larson a 5 Bark review.

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Blog Tour - King by R.J. Larson + Giveaway + Exclusives!

8/8/2013

On Tour with Prism Book Tours...

King

Goodreads * Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Bethany House

Website * Blog * Facebook * Twitter

My Review

Another thrilling story from a master of Fantasy!

Once again R.J. Larson has crafted a story that tells Biblical truths and even Bible stories in such an entertaining manner that the reader doesn't feel preached at.

This book is packed with vivid settings and imagery. I felt like I was there watching the sword fights, seeing the damage done to a certain enemy's palace, you could feel the characters fear, and Ela's pain at the continued rebellion against the Infinite. Each of your senses along with your emotions will be engaged in this thrilling book

Just as well written and page turning as it's predecessors, King is a book that will entertain and teach at the same time. I, honestly, could hardly put it down. I just HAD to know what was going to happen next. Even now several days after I finished reading it I am still thinking off an on about the characters or something I learned.

I sincerely hope that R.J. Larson continues writing more of this style of book, either continuing the series or possible writing another one. Fantasy isn't my top choice in genres but R.J.'s books have been and will continue to be at the top of my wishlist!

Giveaway:

July 22 - August 16
Print copy of Prophet, Judge & King. USA, Canada, UK only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Map Puzzle Tour...

22 - Launch!

Kien (Judge cover) is the original owner of the map... the scrolling mimics his sword...

Follow the tour to reveal the entire map!

23 â€“ ADDLibrarian - Review

- Rose & Beps Blog "Compass"

24 â€“ TheWonderings of One Person - Review

25 â€“ TheOther World "Beginnings"

26 â€“ Piecesof Whimsy - "Romance & Action"

28 â€“ The(Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl - "Monsters"

29 â€“ JoJoâ€™sCorner - Review

- Christyâ€™s Cozy Corner - Tracelands Recipe

30 â€“ Proud Book Nerd - Munra - Siphra "upstart" king!

31 â€“ KellyPâ€™s Blog

- JL Mbewe - Review

1 â€“ Worthy 2Read - Review

2 â€“ Mommasezâ€¦ - Review

4 â€“ Backing Books - Review

5 â€“ Shannonâ€™sBlog - Review

- Melâ€™s Shelves - Review

6 - A Year of Jubilee Reviews - Review

7 â€“ Tressaâ€™sWishful Thinking - Review

- A Tiffyfitâ€™s Reading Corner

8 â€“ TellTale Book Reviews - Review

- CTF Devourer - Review

9 â€“ Grand Finale

And now for those Exclusives I promised!

Since Tell Tale Book Reviews is the last stop (minus the Grand Finale) we have some special exclusives....

The Finished Map AND a Sneak Peek at some exciting news!

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What do these two lovely young ladies have to do with the future of The Books Of The Infinite?

Find out by clicking
HERE

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Book Review - Judge by R.J. Larson

8/7/2013

Genre:
Fantasy

Judge
Books Of The Infinite book 2
by R.J. Larson

-From the back cover-

Kien Lantec, you will bear witness
to my followers in ToronSea.

The last thing Kien Lantec expects on his first day of military leave is to receive marching orders from his Creator, the Infinite. Orders that don't involve destroyer-racing or courting the love of his life, Ela. Adding to Kien's frustration, his Infinite-ordained duties have little to do with his skills as a military judge-in-training. His mission? To warn the people of ToronSea against turning their backs on the Infinite to worship a new goddess.

Tell them I see they are beguiled.
Tell them I seek their hears.
The wise will hear Me.

But why Kien? Isn't this the role of a true prophet, such as Ela of Parne? Seeking answers, Kien visits Ela and finds her stricken by a devastating vision of her own. Her birthplace, Parne, has forsaken their Creator and will soon suffer judgment. Pulled in separate ways, each must seek to follow the Infinite's leading...and hope He will reunite them soon.

Child of dust, will you be My servant?

I don't read a lot fantasy, instead picking and choosing the few authors that I truly like. R.J. Larson is one of those that I REALLY like! I first heard about The Books Of The Infinite series about a year or so ago. The first book (Prophet) looked interesting but I didn't pursue reading it until I found out that the author had written one of my favorite series of Biblical Fiction, under another name. I read Prophet and really enjoyed it. I had been excitedly awaiting the next book, Judge, and believe me it didn't disappoint!

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This Book earned a 5 Bark rating.

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Visit R.J.'s website
HERE

Aah, where to start? Prophecies, sacrifice, betrayal, a little romance, adventure, battles, destiny, and a little fencing match, all pointing to the Creator. What more could you want in a book? The author packs a lot of story into 350+ pages and all of it well worth the time spent reading.

One of the things I look for in an author's writing is, not only the attention to detail, but also how descriptive they are of settings without going overkill. I love authors that can paint an entire scene in a few simple words, a scene that is like watching a movie in your mind, almost as if you are there. R.J. Larson has it down to a 'T' in this book.
The world of The Books Of The Infinite is imaginative and well thought out. The reader is drawn in and at least for a time becomes a part of that world.

I loved the nod to the Biblical story of Jonah. Who would have thought that the story would be just as thought-provoking in a medieval/otherworld setting? Other Biblical stories and themes make their appearance and many readers will readily recognize them.

I enjoyed reacquainting myself with characters from Prophet, they seemed like old friends. Ela, Kien, Tzana, Beka, Ela's parents Dan and Kalme, and not the least Scythe or Pet as he is also called much to his chagrin. Triumph and tragedy will change the lives of all involved.

Not only is this an entertaining story but there are many lessons slipped into the pages that are well worth learning. Themes of following God's leading no matter what, repentance and forgiveness, trust, love, kindness, all shine through in such a way that it doesn't come across as preaching or a Sunday School lesson.

I sincerely enjoyed this book and I am happy to say that I have the next book, King, waiting for me on my shelf. I can't wait to dive back into The Books Of The Infinite!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Judge by R.J. Larson a 5 Bark rating.

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Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (November 1, 2012)
ISBN-10: 0764209728
ISBN-13: 978-0764209727

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Prairie Song 5-Day Countdown RELEASE DAY! + Giveaway

8/6/2013

11 Comments

And the winner is....
Linda Finn
Entry #63
,
,

!!!TODAY is the release of Prairie Song!!!

Prairie Song
Hearts Seeking Home book 1
by Mona Hodgson

#1. What was the inspiration for this book?
My fascination with journeys inside and out, the Old West, and wagon trains. I was a big fan of the TV show, Wagon Train and Little House on the Prairie.

#2. How long did it take to finish writing this book?
The draft, six weeks. With the full editing process, nearly three months.

#3. Do you have favorite character(s) in this book?
Hmm. I value all of my characters for different reasons. But forced to pick favorites, I'd have to say Anna and Boney. Anna's journey was an especially difficult one on so many levels that endeared her to me. And, Boney, well, he's my tried and true sidekick character that first showed up in my Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series, who serves as a voice of reason and offers comic relief.

#4. What do you hope your readers will take away with them when they read this book?
That no matter the circumstances of our journey, God is with us, Sovereign, and trustworthy.

#5. What made you choose the specific location(s) for this book?
The Boone's Lick Wagon Train Company launches from St. Charles, Missouri, a quaint and historical riverside community I visited in 1999. Captivated by its charm, I knew I wanted to write stories set there. St. Charles also serves as the setting for The Quilted Heart novellas (Dandelions on the Wind, Bending Toward the Sun, and Ripples Along the Shore).

#6. How did you name your characters?
Sometimes I name my characters after someone I know or have read about in history. Other times, I choose the names from The Writer's Digest Character Naming Sourcebook by Sherrilyn Kenyon or Baby Names Around the World by Bruce Lansky. I maintain a list of historical and ethnic names to draw from. In the late 1800's, Boney Hughes drove a hack up on in Jerome, Arizona. Anna was the name of a pioneer women I read about in a journal. And Pemberton (Hattie's last name) came from my mother's family.

#7. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that happened involving this book.
For many reasons, Prairie Song was the most difficult story to write

Bonus. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
and taught me a valuable lesson about stoic pride. I wrote about it (or will write about it) in a blog post at www.monahodgson.com. [Link will be added when available]
A favorite Bible verse and the key verse for Prairie Song is Joshua 1:9.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid;
do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

What a comfort to know He is present and able, and His grace is sufficient, no matter our path.

About

The Author

Mona Hodgson

Married forty-one years to her leading man, Mona from Arizona lives in the Southwest where trees have arms instead of branches and salsa is a staple. When Mona Hodgson isn't writing or speaking, she's playing Wii games with her Arizona grandson, spending time with her mom, picnicking, texting her sisters, or chatting on Skype with her grandchildren in Africa.

Mona Hodgson is the author of nearly 40 books, historical novels for adults and children's books. Her children's books include bestseller, Bedtime in the Southwest, six desert and princess Zonderkidz I Can Read books, Real Girls of the Bible: A 31-Day Devotional, and her six I Wonder books. Mona's writing credits also include several hundred articles, poems and short stories, which have appeared in 50 different publications. Mona is a speaker for women's groups, Christian women's retreats, book clubs and reading groups, schools, and conferences for writers and librarians.

Connect with Mona online
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest

The Book

Though it means saying goodbye to the beloved friends and spiritual mentors of her St. Charles, Missouri quilting circle, Anna Goben is certain that she needs to enlist her family in the Boones Lick Company wagon train. The loss of her beloved brother in the Civil War has paralyzed her mother and grandfather in a malaise of grief and depression and Anna is convinced that only a fresh start in the Promised Land of California can bring her family back to her. Although the unknown perils of the trail west loom, Anna’s commitment to caring for her loved ones leaves no room for fear—or even loving someone new.

During the five-month journey, trail hand Caleb Reger plans to keep a low profile as he watches over the band of travelers. Guarding secrets about his past and avoiding God’s calling on his life, Caleb wants to steer as far from Anna as she does him, but she proves to be just as he assessed her from the beginning— independent, beautiful trouble.

Led by a pillar of hope, the group faces rough terrain that begins to take a toll on their spirits. Will the wilderness of suffering lead them astray, or will the gentle song of love that echoes across the prairie turn their hearts toward God’s grace and the promise of a new home?

Order your copy today

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It's Time For A Giveaway!

To enter the giveaway for a Beaded Bookmark inspired by Prairie Song please use the Rafflecopter below.
Before entering please click the Terms and Conditions button at the
bottom of the Rafflecopter and read them.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I'd like to remind everyone entering the giveaway that
I will NOT be contacting the winner, it is up to the winner to contact me.
If you win please send your mailing address/email address to me at telltalebookreviews(at)gmail(dot)com, just replace the (at) with an @ and the (dot) with a . and I will get the info to the correct person.

PLUS: I will give a free Prairie Song bookmark
to the first 5 people that email me
their mailing address*

*Please use the above email address.

11 Comments

Prairie Song 5-Day Countdown... August 5th

8/5/2013

1 Comment

TOMORROW is the release of one of Summer 2013's best historical novels

Prairie Song
by Mona Hodgson

Each day until the release on August 6th we will be sharing all things wagon train and life on the prairie.

Singing has long been an important tradition for Americans.
Here is a sampling of songs that were popular back
when the Pioneers trekked westward.

Down In The Valley
1820's

Down in the valley, the valley so low Hang your head over, hear the wind blow Hear the wind blow, dear, hear the wind blow; Hang your head over, hear the wind blow.

Roses love sunshine, violets love dew, Angels in Heaven know I love you, Know I love you, dear, know I love you, Angels in Heaven know I love you.

If you don't love me, love whom you please, Throw your arms round me, give my heart ease, Give my heart ease, dear, give my heart ease, Throw your arms round me, give my heart ease

Build me a castle, forty feet high; So I can see her as she rides by, As she rides by, dear, as she rides by, So I can see her as she rides by.

Write me a letter, send it by mail; Send it in care of the Birmingham jail, Birmingham jail, dear, Birmingham jail, Send it in care of the Birmingham jail.

Roses love sunshine, violets love dew, Angels in Heaven know I love you, Know I love you, dear, know I love you, Angels in Heaven know I love you.

Barbara Allen
1600's

In Scarlet town where I was born
There was a fair maid dwelling
And every youth cried well away
For her name was Barbara Allen

Twas in the merry month of May
The green buds were a swelling
Sweet William on his deathbed lay
For the love of Barbara Allen

He sent a servant unto her
To the place she was dwelling
Saying you must come to his deathbed now
If your name be Barbara Allen

Slowly slowly she got up
Slowly slowly she came nigh him
And the only words to him she said
Young man I think you're dying

As she was walking oer the fields
She heard the death bell knelling
And every stroke it seemed to say
Hardhearted Barbara Allen

Oh mother mother make my bed
Make it long and make it narrow
Sweet William died for me today
I'll die for him tomorrow

They buried her in the old churchyard
They buried him in the choir
And from his grave grew a red red rose
From her grave a green briar

They grew and grew to the steeple top
Till they could grow no higher
And there they twined in a true love's knot
Red rose around green briar

Uncle Sam's Farm
1850

Of all the mighty nations in the east or in the west,
O this glorious Yankee nation is the greatest and the best,
We have room for all creation, and our banner is unfurl’d,
Here’s a gen’ral invitation to the people of the world.

(chorus) Oh, come away, come away, come away I say!
Oh, come away, come away, come right away!
Oh, come to this country and have no fear of harm,
Our Uncle Sam is rich enough to give us all a farm.

St. Lawrence marks our northern line, as fast her waters flow;
And the Rio Grande our southern bound, ‘way down to Mexico.
From the great Atlantic Ocean where the sun begins to dawn,
Leap across the Rock Mountains far away to Oregon.
(chorus)

While the South shall raise the cotton, and the West, the corn and pork,
New England manufactories shall do up the finer work;
For the deep and flowing waterfalls that course along our hills,
Are just the thing for washing sheep, and driving cotton mills.
(chorus)

Old One Hundredth or Doxology
1674

Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Shall We Gather At The River
1863

Shall we gather at the river,
Where bright angel feet have trod,
With its crystal tide forever
Flowing by the throne of God?

Refrain:
Yes, we’ll gather at the river,
The beautiful, the beautiful river;
Gather with the saints at the river
That flows by the throne of God.

On the margin of the river,
Washing up its silver spray,
We will talk and worship ever,
All the happy golden day.

Ere we reach the shining river,
Lay we every burden down;
Grace our spirits will deliver,
And provide a robe and crown.

At the smiling of the river,
Mirror of the Savior’s face,
Saints, whom death will never sever,
Lift their songs of saving grace.

Soon we’ll reach the silver river,
Soon our pilgrimage will cease;
Soon our happy hearts will quiver
With the melody of peace.

Nearer My God To Thee
1841

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!
E’en though it be a cross that raiseth me,
Still all my song shall be, nearer, my God, to Thee.

Refrain
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee!

Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down,
Darkness be over me, my rest a stone.
Yet in my dreams I’d be nearer, my God to Thee.

Refrain

There let the way appear, steps unto Heav’n;
All that Thou sendest me, in mercy given;
Angels to beckon me nearer, my God, to Thee.

Refrain

Then, with my waking thoughts bright with Thy praise,
Out of my stony griefs Bethel I’ll raise;
So by my woes to be nearer, my God, to Thee.

Refrain

Or, if on joyful wing cleaving the sky,
Sun, moon, and stars forgot, upward I’ll fly,
Still all my song shall be, nearer, my God, to Thee.

Refrain

There in my Father’s home, safe and at rest,
There in my Savior’s love, perfectly blest;
Age after age to be, nearer my God to Thee.

Refrain

Simple Gifts
1848

'Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free
'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
'Twill be in the valley of love and delight.
When true simplicity is gain'd,
To bow and to bend we shan't be asham'd,
To turn, turn will be our delight,
Till by turning, turning we come 'round right.

America or My Country 'Tis Of Thee
1832

My country, ’tis of thee,
Sweet land of liberty,
Of thee I sing;
Land where my fathers died,
Land of the pilgrims’ pride,
From every mountainside,
Let freedom ring!

My native country, thee,
Land of the noble free,
Thy name I love;
I love thy rocks and rills,
Thy woods and templed hills;
My heart with rapture thrills,
Like that above.

Let music swell the breeze,
And ring from all the trees,
Sweet freedom’s song;
Let mortal tongues awake;
Let all that breathe partake;
Let rocks their silence break,
The sound prolong.

Our fathers’ God, to Thee,
Author of liberty,
To Thee we sing;
Long may our land be bright
With freedom’s holy light;
Protect us by Thy might,
Great God, our King.

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Sources: www.wikipedia.org www.cyberhymnal.org and several other sites for these historic songs in the Public Domain.

1 Comment

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8/5/2013