Category: December-2016

Genre:
Romantic Suspense/Holiday

Light The Dark
A Carolina Moon Christmas Novella
by Christy Barritt

-From Amazon-

Nine months pregnant, Hope Solomon is on the run and fearing for her life. Desperate for warmth, food, and shelter, she finds what looks like an abandoned house. Inside, she discovers a Christmas that’s been left behind—complete with faded decorations on a brittle Christmas tree and dusty stockings filled with loss.

Someone spies smoke coming from the chimney of the empty house and alerts Dr. Luke Griffin, the owner. He rarely visits the home that harbors so many bittersweet memories for him. But no one is going to violate the space so near and dear to his heart.

Then Luke meets Hope, and he knows this mother-to-be desperately needs help. With no room at any local inn, Luke invites Hope to stay, unaware of the danger following her. While running from the darkness, the embers of Christmas present are stirred with an unexpected birth and a holiday romance. But will Hope and Luke live to see a Christmas future?

She's fleeing danger, he's fleeing loss...

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Christy Barritt

Author Website

Christy Barritt is one of my absolute favorite authors, whether it's her mysteries or her romantic suspense, and I've really enjoyed the Carolina Moon series in particular. Light The Dark is a great novella, with plenty of suspense and romance, perfect for the cold snowy afternoons that are part and parcel of this time of year. You'll get to check in with some favorite characters from the previous books and get to meet some delightful new ones. I truly enjoyed this little Christmas novella and definitely recommend it to fans of this author or of Christmas suspense stories in general.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Light The Dark by Christy Barritt a 4 Bark rating.

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Monday Movie - McLintock!

12/12/2016

McLintock!
starring
John Wayne ■ Maureen O'Hara

(1963)

He tamed the West... But Could He Tame Her?

George Washington McLintock, "GW" to friends and foes alike, is a cattle baron and the richest man in the territory. He anxiously awaits the return of his daughter Becky who has been away at school for the last two years. He's also surprised to see that his wife Katherine has also returned. She had left him some years before without really explaining what he done but she does make the point of saying that she's returned to take their daughter back to the State Capitol with her. GW is highly respected by everyone around him including the farmers who are pouring into the territories with free grants of land and the Indians who are under threat of being relocated to another reservation. Between his wife, his headstrong daughter, the crooked land agent and the thieving government Indian agent, GW tries to keep the peace and do what is best for everyone.

If you only watch one John Wayne movie McLintock! is probably the one you should pick. It's not my favorite,
El Dorado (Western) and Hellfighters (non-Western) have that distinction, but it is certainly on my longer list of favorites.

This is a rip-roaring western, not exactly a true cowboy movie, with probably THE best mud fight in movies. Though, the one in North To Alaska is pretty darn good too. And nothing is funnier than Maureen O'Hara dressed to the nines and wielding a hatpin during the aforementioned fight. To this day my family can quote passages from this movie, and single lines such as "Don't say it's a fine mornin' or I'll shoot ya" and my personal favorite "Keep a civil tongue in your unprepossessing face!"

Some of the things in this movie are no longer cricket to show on film. I mean, spanking your wife in public? Uumm, no. But McLintock! truly highlights the chemistry between The Duke and The Queen Of Technicolor and features a cast of some of the best of Hollywood's golden age in western actors. There are familiar faces everywhere, from Chill Wills to Edgar Buchanan. Viewers will also recognize and young Stefanie Powers and Yvonne De Carlo (from The Munsters). And even longtime stunt double for John Wayne, Chuck Roberson, gets screen time as Sheriff Lord.
And those in the know will not only notice two of John Wayne's children in front of the cameras, Patrick Wayne as Dev Warren and Aissa Wayne as Alice Warren, but they will catch another son, Michael Wayne, listed as producer in the credits.

Politically correct this film is not. Totally fun and one of John Wayne's best comedies it is. McLintock! just tells like the Old West we wish it were. The Old West we love so much in books and film.

127 Minutes

Principal Cast

John Wayne ... George Washington 'G.W.' McLintock
Maureen O'Hara ... Katherine Gilhooley McLintock
Patrick Wayne ... Devlin Warren
Stefanie Powers ... Rebecca 'Becky' McLintock
Jack Kruschen ... Jake Birnbaum
Chill Wills ... Drago
Yvonne De Carlo ... Louise Warren

Filming Location(s)

Old Tucson - 201 S. Kinney Road, Tucson, Arizona, USA
Lochiel, Arizona, USA
San Rafael Ranch State Park, Patagonia, Arizona, USA
Fairbank, Arizona, USA
Harshaw, Arizona, USA
Ruby, Arizona, USA
Klondyke, Arizona, USA
Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona, USA
Sonoita, Arizona, USA
Nogales, Arizona, USA
Sonoran Desert, Arizona, USA
Duquesne, Arizona, USA
San Raphael Valley, Arizona, USA

Awards

1964 Golden Laurel Awards
Top Action Drama
Top Action Performance - John Wayne

Quotes

George Washington McLintock: Don't say it's a fine morning or I'll shoot ya!

Running Buffalo: Swell party, where's the whisky?

George Washington McLintock: [through gritted teeth after knocking Jones down] Now, we'll all calm down!
Drago: Take it easy, boss, he's just a little excited, that's all.
George Washington McLintock: I know, I know. I'm gonna use good judgement. I haven't lost my temper in forty years, but pilgrim you caused a lot of trouble this morning, might have got somebody killed... and somebody oughta belt you in the mouth. But I won't, I won't. The *hell* I won't! [belts Jones in the mouth]

Becky McLintock: You are my father and if you do love me you will shoot him! [speaking about Devlin]
George Washington McLintock: I'm your father and I sure love you.
[grabs a pistol from his cabinet and shoots Devlin]
Becky McLintock: You shot him! You really shot him! If he dies...
George Washington McLintock: [Interrupts Becky] If he dies he will be the first man killed with a blank cartridge . We use this to start the races on the fourth.
Becky McLintock: [talking to Devlin] You poor dear.
Devlin Warren: Poor dear? You would of had me shot down in cold blood!

Notice: I have an affiliate with Amazon so if you purchase a movie through the links provided I will receive a small kickback.

Thanks to IMDB.com for most of the info for this movie.

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Book Review - Mistletoe Reunion Threat by Virginia Vaughan

12/11/2016

Genre:
Romantic Suspense/Holiday

Mistletoe Reunion Threat
Rangers Under Fire book 4
(Love Inspired Suspense)
by Virginia Vaughan

-From the back cover-

MISSING CHILD

Someone wants Mississippi prosecutor Ashlynn Morris dead... and they've taken her son to get to her. The only person she can trust to get him back is his father, a man who doesn't even know about their secret child. When grief and survivor guilt pushed army ranger Garrett Lewis to run out on their wedding five years ago, he knew he was leaving behind the love of his life. But a son? Finding out he's a father has him reeling, especially since his little boy is missing. But now the tormented ex-soldier has a new mission, one that can't fail. Protect the woman he's never stopped loving...and bring her son – their son – home for Christmas.

Rangers Under Fire:
Nothing's more dangerous than falling in love

ISBN-13: 978-0373447879

Will they live to see another Christmas?

Wow, what an exciting read! I just couldn't put the book down! Exciting, action-packed, suspenseful, and nary a moment to catch your breath. The pages were fairly smoking as I turned them, desperate to find out what would happen next and if Jacob would be found safe.

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Virginia Vaughan

Author Website

In Mistletoe Reunion Threat the author really delves into re-learning to trust when someone has let you down, forgiveness, and she beautifully portrays the extreme lengths a mom, and a dad, will go to in order to save their son. Virginia Vaughan is definitely a talented author, kept me completely engrossed in every aspect of the characters lives.

Mistletoe Reunion Threat is a wonderful romantic suspense read, with a Christmas thread, and I highly recommend it, and any of Virginia Vaughan's other thrilling books.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Mistletoe Reunion Threat by Virginia Vaughan 4.5 Bark rating.

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4th Blogoversary Celebration - Character Interview with Cat McPherson from Counter Point by Marji Laine

12/7/2016

Counter Point
Heath's Point Suspense book 1
by Marji Laine

Someone wants to complete the final assignment of a murdered hit man.
Her dad's gone, her diner's closing, and her car's in the lake. Cat McPherson has nothing left to lose ... except her life. And a madman, bent on revenge, is determined to take that, as well. Her former boyfriend, Ray Alexander, returns as a hero from his foreign mission, bringing back souvenirs in the form of death-threats. When several attempts are made on Cat’s life, she must find a way to trust Ray, the man who broke her heart.
Keeping Cat safe from a fallen cartel leader might prove impossible for Ray, but after seeing his mission destroyed and hearing of the deaths of several godly people, he knows better than to ignore the man’s threats. Cat’s resistance to his protection and the stirring of his long-denied feelings for her complicate his intentions, placing them both in a fight for their lives.
How can a small-town girl survive when ultimate power wants her dead?

Purchase

Character Interview with Cathleen McPherson
from Counter Point by Marji Laine

#1. Tell us a little about yourself, your family, friends.
Oh, dear. Well, there’s not much to tell, really. My name is Cathleen McPherson, but everyone calls me Cat. Well, except my mom and my boyfriend … ex-boyfriend. They’re both gone now. My mom passed away when I was eleven. Ray, my high school sweetheart is a missionary. I have no idea where. He didn’t share that information with me or anyone as far as I know. I don’t have any other family. My dad, Mac, passed away a few weeks ago. Thankfully, I’ve been helping out at a bed-n-breakfast by the lake. The owners, Ellis and Myra Stone, invited me to stay with them after his death.

#2. What is the ONE thing you just CAN'T do without?
My dad’s diner. “Mac’s” has been my safe place since my mom died. I love the work, the people, even the dish washing. I don’t know what I’d do if the place ever went out of business. Not only does the place constitute my livelihood, but it’s the only legacy my parents left behind.

#3. What do you most fear?
Being alone. I love people and feeling needed and involved. I’m so thankful for Mac’s and for the Stones and their Sunrise Inn. I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have people to be with, a place to be, and something to do.

#4. What is your greatest strength and your greatest flaw?
Hmmm. My greatest strength … that’s hard to say. I could tell you my dad’s greatest strength. He was so amazing at making people feel at home. He had a way of engaging perfect strangers and end up sharing the Gospel with them. That’s how his “Sunset Dinners” for the homeless in our town started out. If I have a strength, I hope it’s determination to keep Dad’s dinners going for those who are having a hard time.

But my flaw is pretty simple. I can’t even pray out loud, let alone share my faith with anyone. That’s probably why Ray, my ex-boyfriend, went into his mission field without me. We were supposed to go together. At least that’s what we decided on our last Christmas together.

#5. If you could change one thing in your life, past or present, what would it be?
That one’s easy. I wish I were with Ray, right now, married and serving together, wherever he’s stationed. Although his leaving without talking to me about his change of mind pretty much gives me a clear indication of his opinion of me. And if I had been on the mission field, the loss of my dad would have been even harder

#6. What do you hope that people will learn from your story?
I think my story is all about control and power. I don’t have either, by the way. In fact, I’m teetering with the prospect of losing everything. Even my life. That sounds so ridiculously dramatic, but folks have been trying to convince me of the danger.

#7. What is the most important thing to you?
Like I said, my mom and dad’s legacy – both the diner and the Sunset Dinners. I know I’ll never be the evangelist of my father, and I’ll never have the business ability or creativity of my mom, but I want more than anything to salvage the two things that were the most important to them.

Bonus. What one piece of advice would you like to give readers?
The truth is, I don’t really feel qualified to … well … give advice … to anyone. But I can see the mistakes I’ve made, like making assumptions. I assumed that my dad would always be with me. I guess, I simply floated along and expected everything to keep chugging along the same way it always had. So, my advice to readers would be to not expect anything bad, but to fully enjoy everything that’s good.

Thanks so much for letting me join you!

Marji Laine

Author Website

Schooled by experts such as Perry Mason, Jessica Fletcher, and Dr. Mark Sloan, Marji Laine writes the mysteries she craves with a touch of romance and a thread of faith. Her series are made up of stand-alone stories with satisfying endings where justice prevails. She sets most of her books in and around the Dallas area, where she has lived all of her life, or in the small towns of East Texas that she adores.

A homeschooling mom of four, she loves to discuss possible book scenarios with her daughters. Their conversations have even been known to alarm waiters and store clerks. At which point, one of her girls will roll her eyes and say, "My mom's an author." That pretty much explains the way her mind works.

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4th Blogoversary Celebration - Book Interview with Veola Vazquez + Giveaway

12/7/2016

The Penny Predicament
A Coin Chronicles Novel book 2
by Veola Vazquez

What would a 12-year-old boy do to help save his family from financial ruin? In Jake King’s case, he’d do just about anything. But uncertainty sets in as his plans go awry, his friendships start to fail and his faith takes a few hits. Finding a rare coin worth a fortune might be the answer. But what if it’s not real? Will Jake lose his best friend and his family’s future at the same time? Only God knows and, hopefully, he’ll let Jake in on it.

Book Interview with Veola Vazquez
featuring The Penny Predicament

#1. What was the inspiration for this book?
When my oldest son was younger, he was an avid coin collector. He would search for coins everywhere we went–under vending machines, along the sidewalk, under cars, etc. He inspired me to create a character, Jake King, who was so consumed by coins that he could even learn some of life’s lessons from the history of the coins he found. Once I had the idea in mind, I imagined what would happen if a kid like Jake suddenly had to deal with various life issues. In The Penny Predicament, he deals with his father losing his job and trying to figure out who his real friends are. He learns how to deal with these struggles while going on some exciting journeys and finding a rare coin with an interesting history.

#2. How long did it take to finish writing this book?
This particular book, The Penny Predicament, took about five years to finish. The Coin Chronicles series is a three book series. I wrote The Penny Predicament first but later realized I needed to make a few changes to it. As I worked on those changes, the idea for The Nickel Nuisance came to me–Jake faces a bully while struggling with feeling like a loser at sports. I wrote The Nickel Nuisance after The Penny Predicament but published it as Book 1 in the series.

#3. Do you have favorite character(s) in this book?
I think the main character, Jake, would be my favorite. Both Jake and his brother, Alex, are loosely based upon my two sons. Both characters have unique, fun characteristics. I love to write from both of their points of view.

#4. What do you hope your readers will take away with them when they read this book?
I hope the reader will learn a few of the life lessons that Jake has to learn. I hope readers get a great laugh from some of Jake’s antics while also having some solid ideas about how to find hope in the midst of difficult times.

#5. What made you choose some of the specific locations in this book?
The books in The Coin Chronicles series are all set in San Francisco with a few trips to Sacramento. I’m a native Californian myself and have spent time in both of these cities. San Francisco in particular has some great landmarks that make it a unique and fun city. I also like to throw in a little bit of the amazing histories of these cities to add a bit of an educational piece for my readers.

#6. How did you name your characters?
I wanted a typical, everyday name for my main character, Jake. I wanted him to be a character that all kids could identify with while also making him unique, with some distinct characteristics (he’s a mixed race junior higher). Jake’s last name represents my love for Christ, the King of the universe. Thus, you have Jake King.

#7. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that happened involving this book.
The Coin Chronicles series has been such fun to write. I’ve worked with an illustrator who has taken my ideas and brought them to life. One of my favorite drawings is from The Penny Predicament. It is a scene in which Jake imagines his brother, Alex, with the body of a squirrel. Here it is:

Bonus. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
Finally, I’ll leave you with this, one of my favorite Bible verses:

Psalm 9:10
Those who know your name trust in you, for you,
Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.

Veola Vazquez

Website

Dr. Veola Vazquez, the mother of two boys, uses humor, personal experience and insight to captivate young readers. As a Christian psychologist, she approaches the difficult issues of young life in a way that encourages and instructs the children who read her books. Her witty and fun stories build on real life issues to teach lessons about faith, friendship and family.

In addition to her works for children, Dr. Vazquez maintains a website and blog where she provides tools for parenting and devotionals to encourage Godly living. With a specialty in childhood issues such as AD/HD and childhood depression, anxiety and trauma, she has special insight into the ways parents can be most helpful to their children. Also, as a mother herself and a wife of over 20 years, she uses her personal wisdom in conjunction with her professional experience to guide and inspire families.

With a passion for helping both children and families, Dr. Vazquez is also a Bible teacher and inspirational speaker for women's events and mom's groups. In addition to her inspirational teaching, she is also a professor at a Christian university in Southern California where she teaches both graduate and undergraduate psychology courses.

Finally, Dr. Vazquez loves to spend her time reading and taking walks with her family and wiener dog, Paco.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Veola has graciously offered to giveaway
a copy of The Penny Predicament

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4th Blogoversary Celebration - Author Interview with Terri Reed + Giveaway

12/7/2016

11 Comments

A Family Under The Christmas Tree
by Terri Reed

In this heartwarming tale set during the Christmas season, a single father and a fashion photographer are brought together by a young boy and a mischievous Bernese mountain dog—but first they must learn to set aside their differences if they are willing to let their relationship bloom.

David Murphy never knew much about kids. But when his brother dies unexpectedly, David is granted custody of his six-year-old nephew, Troy, who he’s only seen once a year since he was born. He already has his hands full running his business, and he has no idea how to help the grieving boy. When Troy runs off one day, David finds him at a park playing with an adorable and rambunctious Bernese mountain dog—who leads him to Sophie.

Sophie Griffith has spent her life travelling around the world as a photojournalist. She has never stayed in one place for long, and her new assignment—helping her grandmother for a few weeks—is just temporary. Once Christmas day comes, Sophie is off the hook and can leave for a new adventure. Caring for her grandmother is a piece of cake—but caring for her new Bernese mountain dog, Riggs, is a different story. It doesn’t help that Riggs strikes up a friendship with a lost little boy one day at the park—and leads her to David.

Neither David nor Sophie have time for romance. But as they spend more time together, they start falling for each other even though they know it can’t go anywhere. Sophie will be gone after Christmas, and the last thing David needs is another distraction as he tries to comfort Troy. But as their faith and growing love for the boy and dog unites them, they wonder whether it’s more than a holiday romance…and maybe Troy might finally get his Christmas wish for a family.

with Terri Reed

#1. What started you on the “Alpine Path” (writing career)?
Like many writers, I was making up stories from a young age. I would create worlds and adventures for my dolls and stuffed animals as a way to entertain myself. When I out grew that stage, I began writing my imaginary character and their adventures down. In my late twenties I took a writing class at the local college and then joined Romance Writers of America where I learned the craft, networked with authors and other in the industry. I began submitting with the hope of publishing in 1996. In 2001 I sold my first novella and then in 2003 my first novel. Forty plus books later, I still enjoy writing.

#2. Are you a full-time author or do you have another job?
When I first started writing toward publication, I had three part-time jobs: I taught an exercise class, did daycare out of my home and worked at Nordstrom department store evenings and weekends. Not long after I sold my third book I was able to step away from retail and decided I liked taking exercises classes more than I liked teaching them. I did the daycare until my youngest reached high school. From that point on I have been blessed to write full-time.

#3. What is the hardest part of being an author?
The self-promotion. I don’t relish the limelight. I’d rather write the books and have someone else promote them.

#4. How has becoming a published author changed your life?
I was able to give up my part-time jobs, I’ve been blessed to meet the most interesting and generous people through the years and I’ve also been blessed to travel, even if it’s only from my desk chair.

#5. What genre(s) do you write and what drew you to it/them?
I write romance and romantic suspense for the Christmas market. I wanted to tell stories from my worldview and I love happy ending as well as adventure and mystery.

#6. What is the craziest thing you've done in the name of research?
I zip lined on Catalina Island, 300 feet above a canyon floor, over trees with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It sounded fun. But I realized that I have a little issue with heights. Especially, dangling from a cable above the treetops. I was so out of my comfort zone and ready to quit after the first run but there was no other way to get to the bottom, so I gathered my courage and made it down the canyon. I don’t need to do that again.

#7. If you could give your younger self one piece of advice what would it be?
Listen to your college professor when he tells you, you should pursue writing and take him up on the offer to introduce you to a romance author.

#8. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that has happened in your life as writer.
While I was in the early stages of plotting A Family Under the Christmas Tree, my mother passed away. She’d had an inoperable brain tumor for many years so it wasn’t totally unexpected but still a shock. I was with her the day before she passed which was a blessing to be able to say goodbye and tell her I love her. In honor of my mother, I named the grandmother in the story after my mom.

Bonus. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
Let all that you do be done in Love. 1 Corinthians 16:14
As we move into this busy and sometimes stressful season this verse is a good reminder of the attitude I want to have in all I do.

May you have a merry and blessed Christmas!

Terri Reed

Terri Reed’s romance and romantic suspense novels have appeared on Publisher’s Weekly top 25, Nielsen’s Bookscan top 100 and featured in USA Today, Christian Fiction Magazine and Romantic Times Magazine, finaled in RWA’s RITA contest, National Reader’s Choice Award contest, ACFW’s The Carol Award contest.

Contact Terri @ www.terrireed.com or
P.O. Box 19555 Portland, OR 97224

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Terri Reed has graciously offered to giveaway
One signed copy of A Family Under The Christmas Tree, yummy Chocolate, & a Bookmark

11 Comments

4th Blogoversary Celebration - Guest Post with Angela Breidenbach + Giveaway

12/7/2016

2 Comments

Guest Post with author Angela Breidenbach

Do you dare?

When we were children, we all had big dreams.
What were yours? Have you done them or become them?

When I was a child, I wanted to travel the world and live in places like Sweden, Ireland, and Scotland. I wanted to get to know where I came from and figure out who the people were that made me, well, me. I also wanted to write and sit amongst the clouds. I even daydreamed with my dad about building some sort of machine that would let me do it. I had a chance to go as an exchange student in high school. But I chickened out. Me. The person everyone says has so much courage.

Obviously, I didn't get to sit amongst the clouds…or did I? I suppose being a flight attendant meant I sat amongst the clouds. I often sat at the window while traveling staring at the massive clouds as we flew through them. I'm never, never bored with clouds.

I've flown around the world, lived in Spain (not quite Scotland), and traced my genealogy back seven to ten generations on most family lines. But it wasn't enough. My dream, since around the first grade or earlier, was to go to Scotland to write the stories of my people. Then I wanted to expand to Ireland, England, Sweden. That dream hasn't quite happened though I visited England for a few days once while working. And yet, the wheels are turning to bring it through to fruition…

Scotland is finally on my radar. If that one trip can be in the planning, maybe the others can happen too. In the meantime, I do a lot of research to bring those daydreams into my life and write stories about the places I want to go. Something I think makes books the most awesome daydream experience in the world, whether fiction or non-fiction. Deep in the pages, I'm whooshing off into my dreams. Deep in the pages, I'm learning more about the places I want to go and how to do the things I want to do

I hope that deep in the pages of one of my books you'll also get picked up and whooshed into your dreams. Maybe you'll learn something or keep a dream alive because you've jumped into the story and immersed yourself in it like I do.

Dreams are scary. They stretch us and make us uncomfortable. Dreams make us more daring. Once achieved, a dream makes us more confident. But it takes courage to take the leap into the unknown.

The question is:

Do you dare?

Angela Breidenbach

Angela Breidenbach is a bestselling author of romance through the ages and host of two shows, Historically Speaking with Angela Breidenbach and Grace Under Pressure Radio. Angela is the Christian Author Network's president. And yes, she's half of the fun fe-lion comedy duo, Muse and Writer.

Website: http://www.AngelaBreidenbach.com
Twitter/Pinterest/Instagram: @AngBreidenbach
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AngelaBreidenbachInspirationalSpeakerAuthor
ITunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/angela-breidenbach-grace-under/id1026177378?mt=2

The Bucket List Dare
(ebook giveaway)

The Bucket List Dare — Four stories of adventure…but do they dare to love too?
Four best friends—Texas A&M grads—challenge each other to revisit the bucket lists they made in college and tackle one daring item before they turn thirty. Living in different parts of the country and with birthdays on the horizon, the Aggie girls choose their adventure and work toward making it happen . . . with wonderful, unexpected results.

In Her Impossible Dream, Arabel Milligan, recently unemployed and with a new genealogical certification to her name, takes off for Scotland to discover the answer to a mysterious missing branch in her ancestral tree. By Angela Breidenbach

In Save the Groom, Annie Flowers, a wedding photographer whose reputation is her pride and her job is her life, crashes the most extravagant wedding in the country. By Jessica Ferguson

In What Lies Ahead, Kat Brownlee, an army veteran and amputee, has always dreamed of climbing the most challenging mountain she could find. Now that her life and body have been drastically altered—does she dare? By Pamela S. Meyers

Jojo Merritt, in Skydiving to Love, is a country veterinarian who has never jumped out of anything higher than a hayloft much less an airplane. How did that get on her bucket list? By Linda W. Yezak

Will they dare to love?

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Angela has graciously offered to giveaway
an e-book copy of The Bucket List Dare

2 Comments

4th Blogoversary Celebration - Author Interview with Susan Sleeman

12/7/2016

! ! ! New Release ! ! !

Christmas Conspiracy
First Responders book 6
(Love Inspired Suspense)
by Susan Sleeman

WITNESS IN JEOPARDY

It's a typical day at Rachael Long's day-care center—until a masked gunman tries to abduct one of the children in her charge. First response commander Jake Marsh manages to defuse the situation before anyone is harmed…but not before Rachael unmasks the would-be kidnapper. Now Jake must lead a manhunt and protect Rachael from the criminal who's turned his focus on her. But the case is reawakening painful memories for Jake, and Rachael's treating emotional wounds of her own. And with danger mounting as Christmas nears, they must learn to let go of the past in order to outwit a killer…and find the peace that's always eluded them both.

with Susan Sleeman

#1. What started you on the “Alpine Path” (writing career)?
I always wanted to write a book but like many people today, I was too busy to sit down and do it. Then I was struck with a chronic illness and I was forced to sit for long periods of time. A type A personality, I couldn’t sit and do nothing so I started writing. As the disease progressed, I had more and more time to write and soon I was writing full time and actively pursuing publication.

#2. Are you a full-time author or do you have another job?
I am a full-time author. I had six books release this year. If I didn’t work full-time, that wouldn’t have been possible. It was barely possible as it was. LOL So far, I only have two books and two novellas releasing in 2017, which is a much more manageable schedule. That will likely change, but it’s still more manageable. Wonderful reviewers like you, Jasmine, are likely glad I cut back. ☺

#3. What is the hardest part of being an author?
Let me first say I am blessed to be able to do what I do. I love creating stories and characters that I would like to meet if they were real. Okay, fine, some days I think they are real. LOL But back to your question. Balancing my time to find
uninterrupted time to write with life events and the many other tasks expected of an author is my greatest challenge. Authors today are expected to promote their books as never before on social media, blogs, a website, and in person. Trust me when I say, that though I enjoy most of it, it takes a lot of time and can seem overwhelming. Especially when a book releases or when a publisher puts books on sale. And with six of them releasing this year and several big sale events, marketing took up a lot of time.

#4. How has becoming a published author changed your life?
You mean besides all the fame and fortune. LOL I guess the biggest change it has made in life is that I now get paid for what I used to do for free. It has helped our family finances and we have been able to afford to do things we didn’t have the money to do in the past, like remodel our house, but along with book contracts comes the responsibility and increased pressure of meeting deadlines and so, I work a lot more.

#5. What genre(s) do you write and what drew you to it/them?
I predominately write romantic suspense but I also do some mysteries for book clubs. I am drawn to romantic suspense, as that is what I like to read. I enjoy the romance aspect, but I need the suspense to keep the book interesting and moving forward for me. Straight romance does not provide the impetus for me to want to pick up the book over and over again. I need that suspense/mystery where I can keep trying to figure out the guilty party or mystery.

#6. What is the craziest thing you've done in the name of research?
Hmm, a couple of things come to mind. I once mock tried to smother my daughter to see if she could reach my face to inflict any harm. I also had her pretend she was chained to the wall to see how far away I would have to locate a backpack so she couldn’t reach it and how high she could keep her head above water if a room flooded. I won’t mention the things I’ve attempted to do myself. LOL

#7. If you could give your younger self one piece of advice what would it be?
Live in the moment and cherish each moment that I have. Especially when my daughters were younger and before I was diagnosed with the chronic illness. You always hear older people say that life goes by in a blink of an eye, but now that I am one of the older people, I know it’s so true. Also, if I could have a second thing to tell myself, I would have made myself sit down and start writing earlier. But I also know that everything I have experienced in life has made me who I am and allowed me to create the characters I create.

#8. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that has happened in your life as a writer.
What comes to mind first is that when my very first book released, the publisher put the wrong author’s picture in the back of the book. There I was super excited when my author copies arrived. Yes, something I’d worked years for finally
happened. I flipped through the book and when I reached the back page, my heart dropped. Alas, the book was printed by this time and there was nothing the publisher would do to fix the situation. It was a very humbling experience.

Bonus. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
A bonus? I always have to go for the bonus. The Bible verse that is really front and center in my life right now is,

Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him,
so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

For some reason, I am not as peaceful as I used to be and I constantly have to remind myself to trust in God and to know that everything works for good according to His purpose, not mine.

Susan Sleeman

Website

Susan is the bestselling author of Christian/inspirational and clean reads romantic suspense and mysteries. She grew up in a small Wisconsin town where she spent her summers reading Nancy Drew and developing a love of mystery and suspense books.

Today, Susan channels this enthusiasm into writing romantic suspense and mystery novels and hosting the popular internet website TheSuspenseZone.com.

Much to her husband’s dismay, Susan loves to look at everyday situations and turn them into murder and mayhem scenarios for future novels. If you’ve met Susan, she has probably figured out a plausible way to kill you and get away with it. Don’t worry, she’d never follow through on it.

Susan currently lives in Oregon, but has had the pleasure of living in nine states. She and her amazing husband have two beautiful daughters, a very special son-in-law and an adorable grandson. In her spare time, you can find her enjoying her grandson, reading, gardening or working on TheSuspenseZone.com.

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Happy 4th Blogoversary!

12/7/2016

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Yes, we are celebrating Tell Tale Book Reviews's

Blogoversary!

And we have some great things going on!
Guest Post from:
Angela Breidenbach
Interviews with:
Marji Laine
Terri Reed
Susan Sleeman
Veola Vazquez
and Giveaways!

Hurry and check it all out!

HERE

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Pearl Harbor Day 75th Anniversary

12/7/2016

Pearl Harbor Day

December 7th, 1941 - December 7th, 2016
We Remember 75 Years Later.

Pearl Harbor
Then and Now

USS Arizona

God Bless America

Photos from The National Archives, Pixabay.com, and the Public Domain.

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WORD Wednesday 12-7-16

12/7/2016

15 He hath made the earth by his power, he hath established the world
by his wisdom, and hath stretched out the heaven by his understanding.

Jeremiah 51:15 KJV

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Monday Movie - The Ghost Breakers

12/5/2016

The Ghost Breakers
starring
Bob Hope ■ Paulette Goddard

(1940)

The two stars of "The Cat and the Canary" find love and laughter in a haunted house!

Mary Carter inherits her family's ancestral home, located on a small island off Cuba, and, despite warnings and death threats, decides to take possession of the reputedly haunted castle. She is joined by radio broadcaster Larry Lawrence who, believing he has killed a mob gunman, flees New York with his butler, Alex. Once on the island the threesome enter the eerie castle and after viewing the ghost of one of Mary's ancestors and fighting off a menacing zombie, they find the key to the castle's treasure but are interrupted by an all-too-human foe.

This is the one and only movie that I fell in love with over the radio...errr...Old Time Radio on cassette tape that is... I heard one of the Screen Director's Playhouse radio show productions of The Ghost Breakers when I checked out a whole set of Old Time Radio tapes from the library. I just about died laughing as I listened to Bob Hope reprise his role from the movie. At first opportunity I found the movie version and watched it. It was even better than the show!

Now, I've never been a huge Bob Hope fan but The Ghost Breakers is definitely my favorite of his films. His delivery of the hysterical one-liners is just priceless! It is also pretty much the only horror film that I'll watch...and re-watch...

Another plus is the costumes. Designed by one of Hollywood's best known, and talented, designers, Edith Head. She started in costume design in the 1920's and the last film she worked on released in 1982. Her costumes are recognizable in their simplicity and just their 'interesting-ness'. Her book, Edith Head's Hollywood, is an amazing look into Hollywood's Golden Era and best love actresses.

If you are politically correct, stay far away from this movie! But if you are a classic movie fan, love total comedy, and if you realize that painting something from 1940 with a modern brush just won't work, well this movie just might be for you. In fact, one clip about zombies from this movie is probably one of the most popular youtube videos to share around election season.

The Ghost Breakers is one of my favorite comedy movies and in my opinion a must watch. Grab that popcorn and sit back for some chills and a lot of laughs, you just can't beat the one-liners and zingers in this movie!

85 Minutes

Principal Cast

Bob Hope ... Larry Lawrence
Paulette Goddard ... Mary Carter
Richard Carlson ... Geoff Montgomery
Paul Lukas ... Parada
Willie Best ... Alex
Pedro de Cordoba ... Havez (as Pedro De Cordoba)
Virginia Brissac ... Mother Zombie
Noble Johnson ... The Zombie
Anthony Quinn ... Ramon Mederos / Francisco Mederos
Tom Dugan ... Raspy Kelly
Paul Fix ... Frenchy Duval
Lloyd Corrigan ... Martin

Filming Location(s)

Paramount Studios, Hollywood, Los Angeles, California

Quotes

Raspy Kelly: They don't mind a little publicity. They kinda like it.
Larry Lawrence: I know. I plug them, and they'll plug me.

Alex: A lot of folks don't like you, boss. I expect some of these mornings when I come to get you outta the bed, I'll have to pull the sheet up instead of down.

Parada: Are you the one advising Miss Carter to sell the castle?
Larry Lawrence: No, my advice is keep the castle and sell the ghosts.

Geoff Montgomery: It's worse than horrible because a zombie has no will of his own. You see them sometimes walking around blindly with dead eyes, following orders, not knowing what they do, not caring.
Larry Lawrence: You mean like Democrats?

Alex: Hey, boss, you ain't goin' upstairs, are ya? Where those ghosts is?
Larry Lawrence: Listen, you stay there, and if a couple a fellas come runnin' down the stairs in a few minutes, let the first one go. That'll be me.
Alex: If somebody passes you, that'll be me.

Alex: Is that a mummy?
Larry Lawrence: Yes, it's her great-great-great grand-mummy.

DVD

10-MOVIE
DVD COLLECTION

6-MOVIE
DVD COLLECTION

Notice: I have an affiliate with Amazon so if you purchase a movie through the links provided I will receive a small kickback.

Thanks to IMDB.com for most of the info for this movie.

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Prism Book Tours - Love For All Seasons by Stacy Henrie Grand Finale + Giveaway

12/4/2016

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for Love for All Seasons By Stacy Henrie

Love is something that is perfect for every season of the year. We hope you enjoyed finding out more about this newest novella collection set during each of the four seasons. If you missed any of the excerpts or review, go back and check them out now...

Launch - Note from the Author

In these four novellas - one for each season of the year - you'll meet four couples who overcome a myriad of obstacles to love with faith and determination. Each story takes place in a different time period and setting, one that I felt really showcased that particular season.

Katie's Clean Book Collection - Review

"I love this author's writing style and loved how well the novellas came together into stories that felt complete. For as much as I complain about certain seasons (namely winter because I hate being freezing cold all of the time...and maybe autumn because right now, I'm pretty tired of raking leaves), I LOVE having seasons. There are things that I love about each and every one and having a sweet story set in each season is truly magical."

Heidi Reads... - Review

"Love for All Seasons was a perfect reading experience! . . . It was too hard to pick a favorite from the four stories set in each of the four seasons, so I recommend reading them all and deciding for yourself ;) Can't wait to read more from this author!"

The Power of Words - Review

"I enjoyed each novella very much and won’t even try to pick a favorite. Love for All Seasons is filled with sweet, touching stories – perfect for any time of the year when you’re looking for a satisfying shorter read."

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"I loved this anthology! The stories are short and super sweet. I loved all of the characters and wanted to see their romances bloom. The book has a romance for each season of the year."

Reading Is My SuperPower - Review

"If you are looking for some sweet historical romances, set in different eras, tied together with a similar inspirational thread, look no further than Love For All Seasons by Stacy Henrie. It’s a collection that easily be read in one sitting, but you’ll also find yourself wanting to savor each story, reluctant to leave the characters behind. An excellent set of novellas, all four strong and each one unique."

Zerina Blossom's Books - Excerpt

Samantha knew the voice without turning. It was Rex. Her best friend. Her longtime neighbor. And the boy she’d bested as many times as she’d lost to during their shared years at the one-room schoolhouse up the road. Their competitive dares hadn’t ended, either, when Rex, two years her senior, had graduated. Though Samantha had enjoyed being the shining star of the classroom for those two years.

Tell Tale Book Reviews - Excerpt

If he stayed here long enough, maybe Mr. Whitefield would give up the idea of Rex accompanying Samantha, in this too-small sleigh, for the evening.

Not that he didn’t want to help deliver the gifts—he hated to see the older man’s traditional Christmas Eve activity halted by illness, and Rex agreed that Samantha shouldn’t go out alone. But tonight’s outing would make keeping his promise to stay away from Samantha impossible.

Wishful Endings - Excerpt

Tempest leapt up to find the hammer sitting innocently on top of the ledger at the far end of the counter. “Aha.” She lifted the tool off the account book and brandished it in the air in triumph. She’d remembered after all.

“Do you greet all of your customers as if you mean to bash them over the head?”

Singing Librarian Books - Review

"As always, Henrie delivers lovely and wonderful stories that readers will absolutely love. I would recommend this magnificent novella collection to readers that enjoy Henrie’s previous work, as well as are fans of historical romance stories."

Jessica and Gracie's Tree - Excerpt

Bram charged into the street, heedless of the traffic, his bag of unneeded nails gripped inside his hand. He hadn’t expected his competition to be a woman. And certainly not one as passionate and pretty as Tempest Blakely. When she’d leapt up from behind the counter, brandishing that hammer like some fierce Roman goddess, he quite forgot his purpose in entering the store in the first place.

Mel's Shelves - Review

"Even though the stories are short, they feel complete. The characters and situations are so different and I enjoyed each one of them. I loved how faith and belief in God played an important role in each of their stories. This is the type of book you can enjoy in bits and pieces or all at once. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading clean, historical romance!"

Bookworm Nation - Excerpt

After gathering up the bundle of towels and clean linens to deliver to the next room, Loralee slipped out the door—only to crash into a firm chest clad in a damp bathing shirt. A hand clasped her elbow to keep her from joining the towels and sheets that had spilled onto the carpet.

Don't forget to enter the awesome giveaway below as well...

Love for All Seasons (Four Inspirational Historical Romance Novellas) Inspirational Historical Romance ebook, 164 pages November 9th 2016

If you like the inspirational historical romances of Deanne Gist and Lauraine Snelling, you’ll love USA Today bestselling author Stacy Henrie! With four novellas—one for each season of the year—you’ll find a heartwarming collection of couples from a simpler time in America who discover the redeeming powers of faith and love.

A Long Winter Kiss

As Samantha and Rex’s childhood friendship matured into young love, they promised their hearts to one another, even as Rex headed off to war. But their hope for a bright future was shattered when Rex succumbed to his belief that the horrors of war had made him a man no woman could love. Now he has returned, and Samantha must help Rex see that he still has much to give—and much more to gain—by replacing fear with faith and opening himself to love.

An Unlikely Spring Courtship

Tempest worked hard to secure her independence as a woman running her own mercantile, so when Bram has the audacity to open a competing shop in a town with only enough room for one, Tempest is driven to despair. And then to retaliation. But when tragedy strikes their community and threatens everything they both hold dear, will they be able to recognize that what they share is far more important than what separates them?

A Summer for Love

Loralee’s life has changed dramatically in the eight years since she’s last seen the resort town of Bayocean, but one thing that has never changed is her feelings for Wyatt, a man she promised to meet at the resort on a specific day if they were both still unattached. When Wyatt appears on that date, as hopeful and uncertain as Loralee, the two must see if an old and abiding love has outlasted the changes wrought by time—and begin to build a new life together.

Romance in Autumn

Phoebe and James grew up together but apart in the same beautiful mansion, he as the son of the owners, she as the daughter of a servant. In the years since, Phoebe’s fortunes have changed dramatically, and she carries the dream of one day owning the mansion that is still close to her heart. Until James—now a deeply compelling man—delivers the bad news that securing the purchase will be all but impossible. As Phoebe reluctantly relinquishes her dream, she will also look deep into her soul to learn that a true home might exist in her budding love for James.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble

USA Today bestselling author Stacy Henrie is the author of western romances and the Of Love and War series, which includes Hope at Dawn, a 2015 RITA Award finalist for excellence in romance. She was born and raised in the West, where she currently resides with her family. She enjoys reading, road trips, interior decorating, chocolate, and most of all, laughing with her husband and kids. You can learn more about Stacy and her books by visiting her website at stacyhenrie.com.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

Tour Giveaway

$40 Amazon eGift Card and Winner's Choice of an ebook of Any of Stacy Henrie's Books (you can see her books listed on Amazon here) Open internationally Ends December 8th

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Book Review - The Pattern Artist by Nancy Moser

12/4/2016