Shattered by Dani Pettrey

My Thoughts:

Karli Davis is full of secrets- and now she's dead.  She had few friends (plenty of enemies) and lived the life of a wild child but who hated her enough to kill her?  Shattered, written by Dani Pettrey, is a thrilling mystery combined with romantic tension that keeps you guessing until the very end!  Reef McKenna is accused of murdering Karli and Piper, his sister, steps up to clear his name. She embarks on a journey to find answers and unwittingly puts her whole family in danger.  I admired Piper's bravery and spunk and the close relationship she shared with her siblings.  Now let me tell you a bit about Landon Grainger.  He's long-suffering, ruggedly handsome and every woman's dream!  Dani Pettrey does an amazing job of weaving God into Piper and Landon's story.  The unknown "shadow" that lurks in the pages of Shattered is relentless and wonderfully chilling.  Dani Pettrey's suspense reminds me a bit of Mary Higgins Clark- but Ms. Pettrey characters are fresher, younger and much more exciting!  This book begins with a suspected crime of passion but snowballs into so much more.  The trail leads from Alaska, to British Columbia, to California and I found myself wishing for more time to read!  Why is everyone afraid to talk about Karli?  You'll have to read the book to find out.:)

DANI PETTREY

Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom, and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves--the thrill of adventure, nail biting suspense, the deepening of her characters' faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters. Visit her website at www.danipettrey.com.

Dani Pettrey is celebrating the release of Shattered with a Nook HD giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party {3/14}. 

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Nook HD
• Submerged and Shattered by Dani Pettrey {Be caught up in this riveting series.}

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 13th. Winner will be announced at the "Shattered" Author Chat Party on 3/14. Connect with Dani for an evening of book chat, trivia, and a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!

So grab your copy of Shattered and join Dani on the evening of the March 14th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 14th!

*I was given a copy of Shattered from Litfuse Publications in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

Sisterchicks in Gondolas by Robin Jones Gunn

My Thoughts:

I spent the weekend in Venice.  Well, after reading Sisterchicks in Gondolas, I really feel like I was there!  This is the first book that I've read by Robin Jones Gunn and it certainly won't be my last.  She has gone right to the top of my list of favorite new (to me) authors.  Sisterchicks in Gondolas tells the adventures of Jenna and Sue, friends and sisters-in law, who have been invited to Italy as cooks for a retreat.  Needing an escape from real life they take the plunge and accept the challenge!  Sleeping under the stars, battling the language barrier, mattress surfing, and chatting with "flirty" gondoliers are only a few of their escapades.  Along the way, they are blessed by new friendships, heartfelt talks, freshly made bacis (and lots of gelato!) and all the sights and sounds of Venice.  Throughout the book they feel God's presence and direction in their lives.  I loved how the author was able to write such an entertaining book and also incorporate a precious message to the readers.  This is it- Sometimes we "just need to show up" and watch for God's goodness and mercy to follow close behind.:)  I cannot wait to read my next Sisterchicks adventure!  

*Christianbook.com (link above) has Sisterchicks in Gondolas on sale right now for only $2.99!*

*I was given a copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

Vampyre 2000: No Rest for the Wicked Book Review

My Thoughts:

Dracula, The Lost Boys, Twilight- I've always been intrigued by vampires.  When given the opportunity to review Vampyre 2000: No Rest for the Wicked, I was eager to take a walk on the wild side.  I found the main character, Cornelius, to be quite fascinating.  Born in Africa in the 1800's, he is "turned" into a vampire while shackled on a boat by slave traders.  And that's just the beginning.  In this third book in the series, we meet Eloise, the lady that saved Cornelius all those years ago when he washed up on a beach and Kisasi, a pretty young freed slave.  A deadly love triangle forms and tragedy soon follows.  Fast forward to present day and a "Vampire Killer" is terrorizing Massachusetts.  Cornelius feels compelled to rectify this "situation" and a road trip like no other occurs.  Needless to say, there's never a dull moment!   Christopher Benson allows us to follow Cornelius over 200 years to present day. The flashbacks in time shown through snippets of memories are my favorite parts of the book and what makes the story truly unique.  Vampyre 2000: No Rest for the Wicked is quite exciting and unlike anything I've ever read before but please note that it's not for the faint of heart.  Blood, gore and adult situations all play a part in this thrilling journey, but no self-respecting vampire would be caught dead without them.;)

Breathing New Life into the Undead
Sometimes the afterlife isn’t happily ever after, a realistic look at a fantastical legend 

Idaho Falls— It’s the 1800s and Cornelius has been captured in the slave trade. Devastated at the loss of his family and home, Cornelius’s life is about to take a turn for the worse—with him on the ship is a vampire.
Drained and left for dead in the Atlantic, Cornelius drifts to the shores of New England where he quickly realizes there are some things worse than being a slave, like turning into a blood-sucking killer.  In the Vampyre 2000 series, Idaho author Chris Benson follows the saga of Cornelius as he struggles to accept his altered life, find love, and outwit an old enemy. With three books out so far, (Life to Lifeless, Ill of the Dead, and No Rest for the Wicked), Benson’s captivating world is garnering an eager audience.
200 years pass and Cornelius is still struggling with the ramifications of being turned. As he evolved from a frightened neophyte, Cornelius also grew weary of the violence and lonely isolation forced upon him. But his existence finally gained meaning when Rita Alderwood walked into his life. Drawn to her nubile charm, Cornelius fights to protect her from his enemies and himself. But his ultimate failure leads to an unbearable choice. Let Rita die or condemn her to a life of the undead. Unable to live without her, Cornelius selfishly turns her.
Finally joined with the love of his life, Cornelius may yet be able to live in peace, if only Rita can accept the monster she has become. There is no glistening skin or drinking animal blood in Benson’s viciously crafted world. Inspired by the fantasies of H.G Wells, Anne McCaffrey and Terry Brooks, Benson returns to gruesome but realistic consequences of the classic vampire legends. When vampires drink, they kill. They lead a dark and isolated existence, and that lifestyle may be too much for Rita. But before she can come to turns with the consequences of her new life, the choice may be taken from her when Cornelius’s oldest nemesis returns to exact her revenge.
If you’re ready for a return to the classic legends with a twist, then Vampyre 2000 is the breath of fresh air you’ve been looking for in an overly saturated genre. Riveting characters, indelible stories, and ruthless determination all cap off an engaging and long-desired series. Cornelius’s unique origin story is just one aspect of the novelty of Benson’s work.

About the Author
Christopher F. Benson grew up in Idaho Falls, Idaho. He has always had a fascination with vampire stories and folklore, and was an avid reader of science fiction and fantasy as a child. Benson studied architecture and history at Texas Tech University and also acted extensively, including performing in several Shakespearean plays. After graduating from college, he began working as an architectural designer in San Franciscoand San Antonio. In 2004, he began keeping his ideas for a modern vampire story in a writing journal, and in 2008, he began to write Vampyre 2000: Life to the Lifeless.

*I was given a copy of this book from PR by the Book in exchange for an honest review.  No other compensation was received.* 

Let's Go Shopping

I love a great beauty product but don't trust those chicks on infomercials- too perky.  

So, since you all know I'm quite real (and not getting paid), I thought I'd share some new finds that I'm truly excited about!

On my birthday Sephora gave me a free sample of Benefit's they're Real! mascara.  (Makes me giggle as it reminds me of Seinfeld.)  The sales lady told me it was really good.  I was just happy to get it for free and not expecting much.  She told me the trick was to wiggle the brush down my lashes- so I did.  Wow.  Worth the $23.  Lashes are thick and lovely and I think my eyes even sparkle a bit.;)

My fabulous Mom gave me L'oreal B.B. Cream for my birthday.  I was really excited to try this as I'd heard so much about the new "B.B." creams on the market.  Let me start off by mentioning that I hate lotions/creams on my face.  My skin tends to be oily so I was prepared to be disappointed.  Oh, my, this cream is niiicccceeee.  It takes the redness out of my skin and doesn't feel a but greasy.  Nice coverage without feeling heavy.  The $7.96 price tag is a steal.

Here is the splurge.  Aveda Green Science Firming Face Cream is for those of us ready to do battle with aging.  Yep, that's me.  This product is another beauty from my parents.  I hate creams on my face, remember?  Well, Aveda has impressed me once again.  It feels wonderful on my skin!  A creamy application and no greasiness.  $58 but it's a war on aging!  $5.00 is not going to cut it, ladies.  This product is worth every penny.

*I didn't receive a penny to promote these products.  I just love you guys and wanted to share.;)*

Fear, Faith and a Fistful of Chocolate by Debora Coty

My Thoughts:

Debora Coty speaks to my heart.  Every time I read one of her books I immediately buy a stack of them to give to friends.  Hey, I even want to hand them out to strangers I pass on the street!     She just makes you feel good.  (Even my husband enjoyed listening as I read the book aloud on our walk.  I couldn't put it down!)  Through her words (and hilarious stories!) she encourages, strengthens and even calms her readers.  The Bible, friends and personal experiences (let's not forget- direction from Papa God!) have helped her gain knowledge that she knows will help others.  She's more than a blessing- she's a friend.

I read Fear, Faith and a Fistful of Chocolate with my daughters- ages 10 and 15.  We laughed and marveled at Debora Coty's stories (the cat shish kabob is crazy but true!) and personal insight (she's not afraid to speak the truth!  Love that!) and I cried- often- as her love of the Lord was a balm to my frazzled nerves and my (occasionally) broken heart.  

The book is organized into 4 sections- 

#1-Internal Fears (Rejection, Guilt, Loneliness, Humiliation 

#2-External Fears (Worry, Anxiety, Obsessions, Aging

#3-Protecting Ourselves with the Armor of God (Gratitude, Compassion, Forgiveness, Perseverance, Grace)

#4-Faceless Fears- Money, Death, Negative Self Talk, etc.) 

You could easily use Fear, Faith and a Fistful of Chocolate for your Quiet Time or as a Bible Study.  Take my advice and get your hands on a book- any book- by Debora Coty.  More Beauty, Less Beast, Too Blessed to Be Stressed and Fear, Faith and a Fistful of Chocolate are my personal favorites, but you will be blessed by all of them.  

Debora Coty is one of the people I would choose to invite to my fantasy dinner party.  You know, the one where you can choose any 5 people in the world?  I'd give her a big hug and then we'd break out the Oreos.:)

Celebrate the release of Fear, Faith and a Fistful of Chocolate with Debora Coty by entering her Kindle Fire Giveaway and RSVPing to the March 7th Author Chat Party on Facebook!







One "sweet" winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire


• A Debora Coty Library (Fear, Faith and a Fistful of Chocolate, More Beauty, Less Beast, Too Blessed To Be Stressed, and Everyday Hope)


• Chocolate (Every good thing begins with chocolate!)


Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/6/13. Winner will be announced at Debora's "Fear, Faith and a Fistful of Chocolate" Facebook Party on 3/7. Debora will be hosting an evening of chat, fun trivia, laughter, and encouragement - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club and a live chat with Debora via Skype.)



So grab your copy of Fear, Faith and a Fistful of Chocolate and join Debora and friends on the evening of March 7th for an evening of fun. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)







Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 7th!




*I was given a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

Goodbye to Yesterday Discovery Saga Scavenger Hunt!

  I'm excited to be participating in the Discovery Saga online scavenger hunt!  For full details on the hunt and how you can participate (and possibly win an amazon Kindle) please go here. 

  I loved watching soap operas when I was younger as each episode ended with a thrilling cliffhanger.  Wanda Brunstetter has implemented that exact idea here and it left me wanting more at the end of Goodbye to Yesterday.  It's Book 1 in a series of 6 books.  Can't wait to get my hands on Book 2!  With it's manageable 121 pages, I easily read Goodbye to Yesterday in a day. To be honest, I felt that the story started off a bit slowly.  Perhaps I was looking for more action instead of reflection.  Luke and Meredith Stoltzfus are newlyweds that are struggling to manage their life and their marriage.  Through their thoughts we learn that Luke was laid off from his job and the stress is finally taking it's toll in the home.  I felt sorry for Meredith as she thinks she may be pregnant and worries for their future.  Of course, Luke worries, too, as he's afraid he won't be able to provide for his new bride.  The story starts to pick up when Luke hears from his Uncle Amos who is thinking of retiring.  He wants to know if Luke would be interesting in carrying on his BUSINESS when he retires.  This would require travel, being separated from his wife and way more than they could ever have imagined.  In walks Alex Mitchell- a desperate druggie running for his life.  He's destined to cross paths with Luke Stoltzfus and their lives will never be the same again...

*Read a chapter here.*

Okay, Discovery Saga scavenger hunters—this is the end of the hunt. Unscramble all your keywords to form a sentence, and figure out the answer. Email the question and your answer to keri@handlebarpublishing.com with DISCOVERY SCAVENGER HUNT in the subject line by midnight on Monday, Feb. 18. All correct answers will be put into a drawing. One winner will be selected to receive a free Kindle e-reader, loaded with Wanda Brunstetter favorites! Thanks for participating and good luck!

*I was given a copy of Goodbye to Yesterday in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

Safe in His Arms by Colleen Coble

My Thoughts:

I was born in Texas but cowboys have never been my cup of tea.  Until Colleen Coble came into my life.  I've read Lonestar Angel, Blue Moon Promise (Under Texas Stars Book 1) and now Safe in His Arms  (Under Texas Stars Book 2) and her story lines, characters and mysteries just get better and better.  Don't get me wrong, Colleen Coble doesn't just write about westerns and cowboys.  She also writes about the beach (Tidewater Inn) and even charming Smitten, Vermont (Secretly Smitten)!  And that's just the beginning.  Once you start one of Ms. Coble's books, you'd better hold on because she takes you on amazing ride filled with suspense, romance, and excitement and God is at the center of it all.:)

Safe in His Arms begins with a letter from Colleen to her readers.  She states that women often feel that they don't meet the expectations that life dictates to them.  Perhaps we think we're not pretty enough, smart enough, a good enough cook or the best at our job.  Remember, Wonder Woman only exists in a comic book and I don't recall ever seeing her do any cooking.:)  Ms. Coble reminds us that no matter what, we are always safe in God's arms.  We are more than enough for Him and His love is unconditional.  What a glorious way to begin a story- and she's so right.

Safe in His Arms showcases Margaret O'Brien, a gorgeous redhead with a fierce stubborn streak but also a tender heart.  As I've come to expect from Colleen Coble, the story was off to a running start within the first few pages.  Daniel Cutler enters the picture with his swagger and disarming smile. He's handsome alright- almost too perfect...  Margaret and Daniel are magical together.  Sparks fly from the first second they see each other!  I was reminded of the movie, Far and Away, in that these two characters need each other but don't realize how much until tragedy strikes.  Their journey is exciting, frustrating and filled with passion.  On a side note, I loved revisiting Nate and Lucy from Blue Moon Promise (Book 1).  It was delightful seeing how their story continued.  Outlaws, secrets and stolen kisses will keep you guessing until the very end of Safe in His Arms.  Definitely my cup of tea.

CBLE

Sometimes it takes a stranger to see you as you really are.

Under Texas Stars, Book 2

Born and raised on sprawling Texas land, Margaret O’Brien prides herself on her competence as a rancher. But her father believes she’s made for more than just dawn-to-dusk work. He wants her to have the love of a good man, to raise children, to build a life. But Margaret gave up such dreams years ago. She’s convinced no man would have her, that the ranch is her life now.

So when Margaret’s father hires Daniel Cutler as a new foreman, she’s frustrated and suspicious. Then an overheard conversation links him with a gang of bank robbers, and she’s downright worried. Daniel swears he’s not involved, but Margaret’s not convinced. She knows the man still has secrets. But would a criminal be so kind and talk so convincingly of his faith? As a series of tragic “accidents” threatens all she holds dear, Margaret must decide what to trust: her own ears, her best judgment . . . or what her heart keeps telling her.

Purchase a copy here.

Learn more about Book 1, Blue Moon Promise here.

Best-selling author Colleen Coble’s novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, ACFW Book of the Year, RWA’s RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers’ Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has nearly 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers and is a member of Romance Writers of America. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana.

*I was given a copy of Safe in His Arms from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

Making Rainbows out of Ashes

Imagine waking up in the middle of the night-

 with your home on fire.

You grab your children- all 6 of them- and dash outside.

In less than 5 minutes there is nothing left but ashes.

This is exactly what happened to one of my dearest friends just last week.

By the grace of God (not luck) everyone survived.

They're having to start all over again.

Can you even imagine?

In an effort to help out I'm selling these Rainbows from Ashes Necklaces.  (20 inches long with extender chain)

$20 each (this includes shipping) 

Let me know if you're interested.

They're not in my shop, I'm making them as quickly as time allows.

toosillysisters@cox.net

Thank you.

February 10 on 10

We were on a roll.

Attended church every Sunday this year.

I blew it today and slept in.

I felt so guilty when Mandy told me it was too bad we missed church.

She was right.

Ruby is holding her own. (thank you for the prayers)

She sleeps at the end of our bed and her snoring is quite soothing.

It's better than ocean waves or rain.

Valentine's decor is in the house!

This is one my favorite pictures of my girls together.

It's Halloween but the theme I see is love.

A treasure trove of VHS cassettes were discovered in our attic.

(thanks, sweetie)

Katie has never seen The Little Mermaid?

This needs to be remedied- quickly.

Sister Schubert for breakfast.

Someday I may try the Pioneer Woman's cinnamon rolls but this is sooooo much easier.

Have a glice day.

(Laughed so hard I could barely breathe.  Watch JB's face at 3:58!)

My cutie loves to craft.

Knew those extra sequins would be put to some good use.;)

Sweet pea comes everywhere with us now.

Have to keep an eye on her.

Mandy took this to the movies with a friend.

I was one happy girl when she came back with extras!

Fajitas for dinner.

Ole!

Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska Review and BOOK GIVEAWAY!

**And the winners are Amy and Tristan!  Congratulations, ladies!**  

My Thoughts:

Like many little girls, I grew up hoping someday to be rich and famous.  Oh, to be a beautiful actress or lead the thrilling life of a musician!  What could be better?  And then I grew up and discovered that the famous pay a large price for stardom.  Ginny Marshall is on the verge of having all her dreams come true in Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska.  The reality of this puts her into panic mode and she struggles to reassess what she really desires out of life.  Only Brett Miller, her ex-fiance, can set things straight for her but she ran off after he proposed to her years ago.  What is it that Ginny is so afraid of?  The answers can only be found in her troubled past...

I really enjoyed reading Love Finds You in Glacier Bay.  Tricia Goyer & Ocienna Fleiss begin by sharing the history of Glacier Bay and it's fascinating!  They traveled there together to get the true flavor of this unique and charming town in Alaska.  I do believe that the gorgeous scenery and friendly people may actually make up for the limited wi-fi access!:)  My favorite character was the independent and tenacious Grandma Ethel.  Her one track mind (to find her grandson's true love) moves the story along at a pleasant pace and when she shares a package of old love letters with Ginny I wasn't able to put the book down!  It's endearing how a love story from the past combined with a present day romance are woven together so perfectly to heal the broken heart of a child.

The main characters, Ginny and Brett, are beyond cute- they are believable.  They are quite attracted to each other and occasionally battle with "self-control".  You know what I mean!  There is mention of playing chess outside so the neighbors can keep an eye on them and also a time or two that Brett struggles to be in the same room with Ginny.  Romantic- yes!  Tricia and Ocienna have done an amazing job delivering a refreshingly "clean" love story (with plenty of passion!) with a definite focus on God.

*Leave a comment on this post for a chance to win a copy of Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska!!!*  (I'll randomly select a winner on Saturday, February 16th)

Singer Ginny Marshall is one signature away from the recording contract of her dreams—a deal that would guarantee success for the former foster child, who still struggles to bury the memories of her painful childhood. But Ginny needs advice from the one person who will look out for her best interests—her former fiancé, Brett Miller. She travels to the remote town of Glacier Bay, Alaska, where the town’s colorful characters and stunning scenery provide respite from LA’s pressures.

In Glacier Bay, Ginny discovers a box of old letters and is swept up in the love story between Clay, an early missionary to Alaska Territory, and Ellie, the woman who traveled there to be his children’s governess. When Ginny is reunited with Brett in Glacier Bay, will she discover—as Ellie did—that healing and love are sometimes found in the most unexpected places?

Pre-order a copy here.

{MORE ABOUT TRICIA GOYER}

Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of six, grandmother of one, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.

In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Tricia, along with a group of friends, recently launched NotQuiteAmishLiving.com, sharing ideas about simplifying life. She also hosts the weekly radio podcast, Living Inspired. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.

Find out more about Tricia at http://triciagoyer.com.

{MORE ABOUT OCIEANNA FLEISS}

Ocieanna Fleiss is a published author and editor. She lives with her husband and their four children in the Seattle area.

Find out more about Ocieanna athttp://ocieanna.com/.









Celebrate with Tricia and Ocieanna by entering their "Glacier Bay" Giveaway and RSVPing for their Facebook Party on Feb. 12th!







One fortunate winner will receive:




• A gorgeous handmade “Glacier Bay” bracelet


• A handmade cowl in "Glacier Bay" blues and greens


• A bottle of custom-made "Glacier Bay" sparkle polish in blue


• Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska by Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss and their two other “Love Finds You” titles {Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie, Montana, and Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington}


Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 11th. Winner will be announced at the "Glacier Bay" Author Chat Party on February 12th. Connect with authors Tricia and Ocieanna, get a sneak peek of their new book projects, try your hand at the Alaska trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be great giveaways—gift certificates, books, and more!



So grab your copy of Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska, and join Tricia and Ocieanna on the evening of February 12th for a chance to connect with the authors and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)








Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 12th!




*I was given a copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*