THE WISHING TREE by Marybeth Whalen

Savvy, determined Ivy Marshall discovers that her husband has cheated on her on the very same day her sister's perfect boyfriend proposes on national television. When Ivy's mother asks her to return to her family's beach home to plan her sister's upcoming wedding, she decides to use the excuse to escape from the pain of her broken heart.

When her return to Sunset Beach, North Carolina, brings Ivy face to face with her former fiance, old feelings are rekindled and she wonders if there is a future for them. However, when Ivy refuses to talk to her husband, he resorts to tweeting to her, expressing his remorse and making it clear he doesn't want to give up on their marriage. As she helps prepare the wishing tree for her sister's wedding, she must examine her dreams for her own future and what true love should be.

My thoughts...

Ivy has gone home to help plan her sister's wedding, she desperately needs this time away after finding out her husband had an affair. Whalen has written another beautiful story about relationships, about love and forgiveness.

Some people won't like the ending but when it comes to a cheating spouse everyone has their own reason for reconciling or divorcing. I think you'll enjoy this nice summer read.

Such a talented writer, I anxiously await each of her new books.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

SLINGSHOT by Matthew Dunn GIVEAWAY!!

Slingshot

by Matthew Dunn

on Tour June 25 - July 31, 2013

Book Details:

Genre:  Fiction Published by: William Morrow / HarperCollins Publishers Publication Date: June 25, 2013 Number of Pages: 416 ISBN: 9780062038029 Purchase Links:

Synopsis:

Master spy Will Cochrane must catch a missing Russian defector as well as one of Europe’s deadliest assassins in this action-packed follow-up to Sentinel, written by real life former field officer Matthew Dunn. Will Cochrane monitors the nighttime streets of Gdansk, Poland—waiting for the appearance of a Russian defector, a man bearing a top secret document, who Will believes is about to step out of the cold and into the hands of Polish authorities. But suddenly everything goes sideways. The target shows up, but so does a team from Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) hell-bent on keeping the man from walking. Then, in a hail of crossfire, a van speeds into the melee and snatches the defector out from under them all. Everyone wants the man and the codes he carries—but now he’s gone and it’s up to Will and his CIA/MI6 team to find him before the Russians. Will tracks both the missing Russian and his kidnappers, believing the defector has his own warped agenda. But soon it’s apparent that the real perpetrator could be someone much more powerful: a former East German Stasi officer who instigated a super-secret pact between Russian and US generals almost twenty years ago. An agreement, which if broken for any reason, was designed to unleash the world’s deadliest assassin. Then Will learns that the Russians have tasked their own ‘spycatcher’—an agent just as ruthless and relentless as Will—to retrieve the document. Now Will knows that he faces two very clever and deadly adversaries, who will stop at nothing to achieve their aim.

My thoughts...

In the 90’s the US and Russia struck a deal which could result in the deaths of millions of people. The plans for a colossal genocide. A tight system is put in place to prevent leaks . When the information is stolen and threats of a leak are made the governments unleash agents to eradicate those involved.

The information is massive and wanted by both the good guys and the bad. It’s hard to tell who is good and who isn’t and that makes for a suspenseful read! An intriguing spy novel that truly makes you gulp as each event unfolds. The characters are fantastic, the plot is awesome. Loved this book!

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Author Bio:

As an MI6 field officer, MATTHEW DUNN recruited and ran agents, coordinated and participated in special operations, and acted in deep-cover roles throughout the world. He operated in environments where, if captured, he would have been executed. Dunn was trained in all aspects of intelligence collection, deep-cover deployments, small-arms, explosives, military unarmed combat, surveillance, and infiltration. Medals are never awarded to modern MI6 officers, but Dunn was the recipient of a rare personal commendation from the secretary of state for work he did on one mission, which was deemed so significant that it directly influenced the success of a major international incident. During his time in MI6, Matthew conducted approximately seventy missions. All of them were successful. He lives in England, where he is at work on the fourth Spycatcher novel.

Catch Up With the Author:

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BOOK BLAST: John Williams and the Bandits of Basswood with GIVEAWAY!!

 

John William and the Bandits of Basswood

We already know Alexander Drake’s story. His father, John William started it all years before when he entered Azra’s Pith. This is his story. John William was born an explorer; just like his dad before him. His adventure really began with the worst year of his life. He lived everyday in misery until his twelfth birthday. He set out to turn things around and find his smile again. A new friend gave him an invitation he could not turn down… follow me and change your destiny. He never imagined being captured by bandits and taken to a ship riddled with river rats was part of his fate. Not just any bandits – the Bandits of Basswood; known to be a ruthless and wild crew of thieves. Trying to escape would be a ridiculous idea. No one has ever escaped and lived to tell about it. Someone should have mentioned that to John William before he snuck off the ship. The chase out of Basswood was on. He took a chance to change his destiny and ended up on a wild ride to save his life.

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Author Elizabeth Parkinson-Bellows

Being the frizzy-haired tomboy with buck teeth gave me a slight case of shyness as a kid. A colorful imagination meant escape and adventure at the drop of a hat. Over the years I learned that the insecurities I carried around were a waste of time. I still prefer a football game to a manicure any day of the week. That indispensable imagination has found its way into my writing providing a sense of joy and a true purpose.

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Book Blast Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 7/10/13 a Rafflecopter giveaway   Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the authors. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

SLOW MOON RISING by Eva Marie Everson

Cedar Key has long been a place of rest, healing, and release in the Claybourne family. But it might also be the birthplace of a lie that is poisoning the family from within. Join the strong Claybourne women--Anise, Kimberly, Jayme-Leigh, Heather, and Ami--as they each confront the truth. Their unique paths will lead them through heartbreak, misunderstandings, and pain. But their journeys will also bring reconciliation with each other and renewed love in their own lives.

In her lyrical, evocative fashion, Eva Marie Everson weaves a tapestry of complicated relationships that, when complete, reveals the most beautiful work of art there is--family.

My thoughts...

What a fantastic book, I enjoyed reading every word! This is the third and final book in the Cedar Key series. It's been fun getting to know the residents and seeing their lives in action but all good things must come to an end.

This is story of four sisters, their relationships, their pain, and the secrets each has been carrying. Every family has at at least one secret, this family seems to have more than it's share and there are those that could tear the family apart. Told from each of the women's perspectives as well as that of their stepmother who happens to be much younger than their father.

Everson is one of my favorite authors, her books are emotional and very well written. A beautiful story of love and healing.

Available June 2013 from your favorite seller of Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Revell; 1 edition (June 1, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0800734386

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter

Madison's heart has been closed for years. But one summer can change everything.


In the years since her twin brother's tragic drowning, Madison has struggled with her ability to trust God--or anyone else, for that matter. It was her brother's dream to win the annual River Sail Regatta in their small harbor town of Chapel Springs, Indiana. And Madison's determined to honor his legacy by making his dream her own. Maybe then she can finally find closure.

But learning to sail means learning to swim. And her instructor is Beckett O'Reilly, a man who already has two strikes against him in Madison's eyes. Being on the water terrifies Madison. But Beckett's calming presence and unwavering confidence eases her fear. And as much as she'd like to deny it, the chemistry between them is electrifying.

As her feelings for him grow, a fledging faith begins to take root in her soul, as well. With Beckett, Madison feels alive for the first time in years--carefree and confident she can win the regatta, maybe even find love.

But Beckett harbors a secret that will test the limits of their love and the depth of Madison's faith. Will their love survive summer's challenge? And will achieving her brother's dream give Madison the peace she desperately seeks? 

My thoughts...

  

Madison lost her twin brother years ago and though her life is filled with her work and family she still has an empty place in her heart. Her brother had a dream of winning the town's annual regatta, Madison decides she is going to win it for him but first she needs to learn how to sail. 

Beckett O'Reilly is going to teach her and though there have been bad vibes between them things change over the course of the summer. He has a secret that could ruin the possibility of a relationship.

Denise has written such a beautiful story about how a misunderstanding can hurt someone terribly. A wonderful tale of forgiveness, tragedy and triumph. A fantastic book to read at the beach or curled up on the sofa on a rainy afternoon. 

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Ageless Derma Retinol and Vit K Eye Cream ~ It's Amazing!

Ageless Derma Eye Cream is a powerful new anti-aging treatment that helps to prevent and reverse the signs of aging. Its unique formula combines Retinol, the purest form of Vitamin A, with Vitamins C, E and K to soften the appearance of dark circles, smooth fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin texture around the delicate eye area. You can find out how Ageless Derma Retinol Eye Cream works and see their complete line of products by clicking the link on the right.

My thoughts...

I've been using this product for 6 weeks and am amazed at how well it works! My problems were (yes...were) dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. I can honestly say the dark circles have completely disappeared and I no longer have puffy eyes!

Within a week the puffiness had greatly diminished and after 2 weeks I noticed a visible difference in the dark circles. There was some minor redness the first few times I used the cream which is not uncommon. I've seen dramatic improvement since. I love the fact that Ageless Derma Skin Care has an all natural formula!

Ageless Derma gently and effectively fights the signs of aging. Friends and family have told me I look younger, those compliments have made me feel so good! I have just started using their Anti-Aging Intensive Skin Brightener, my skin tone is uneven and hasn't responded to the many BB, CC, and DD creams I've tried. I'm very excited about this product also! Watch for my review in July!

Ageless Derma offers a 30 day money back guarantee if you're not happy with their product.

Final words... I am absolutely in love with this product! It does exactly what it says it will do! 5 out of 5 stars!

I received this product free of charge in exchange for an honest review, my opinions are my own.

THE PROMISE BOX by Tricia Goyer

With her heart - and her loyalty - on the line, can she let true love in her life?

Every year, young Amish men descend on the cozy little town of West Kootenai, Montana, arriving in the spring to live there for six months and receive 'resident' status for the hunting season in the fall. They arrive as bachelors, but go home with brides! Lydia Wyse, a book editor from Seattle who grew up Amish, returns to the small community of West Kootenai, Montana to give comfort to her father after her mother's death.

She is drawn back to the familiar Amish ways after finding her mother's most precious possession, a Promise Box of prayers and scripture. What her publisher sees, though, is an opportunity for a sensational 'tell-all' book about the Amish. Lydia soon finds herself falling in love with Amish bachelor Gideon Hooley. She wants nothing more than to forget her past and look forward to a future as an Amish bride.

Will the pain of her childhood-and her potential betrayal of her community-keep her from committing her whole heart?

My thoughts...

Book two in the series has editor, Lydia Wyse, returning home to her Amish roots to bury her mother and to comfort her father. While going through her mother's things she finds a Promise Box full of prayers and scriptures and letters written to her. As she reads them she is aches for the Amish life again. Her editor insists the items in the box would make a great book! Lydia has to make a decision...giving up all she has worked so hard for isn't an easy one to make.

This is such a beautiful story, so inspiring, and heartwarming. Goyer is so very talented. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good love story.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

RAY OF LIGHT by Sheley Shepard Gray

Bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray brings inspirational romance to life in this sweet tale of love in the Amish community, Ray of Light, the second installment of her Days of Redemption series.

Roman Keim just wants a break from the family drama at his snowy Ohio home when he heads to an Amish snowbird community in Florida. There he meets Amanda Yoder and her daughter Regina who soon are warming his heart. But will Roman return to Ohio or will he stay and help the young widow embrace a second chance at love?

The author of the series Sisters of the Heart and Seasons of Sugarcreek, Shelley Shepard Gray delivers an honest, tender love story in Ray of Light, featuring the challenges of faith, family, and romance.

My thoughts...

The second book in Shelley Shepard Gray's Days of Redemption series continues the story of the Keim family that began in Daybreak. If you read book one you'll know many family secrets were revealed, there are even more in this book. This is a story about moving on though you won't forget. A delight to read, a light romance, and a very different lifestyle not adhered to by most Amish communities.

Shelley's books are fun, tender hearted, tales of love, forgiveness, and overcoming. You won't be disappointed!

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

AFLOAT by Erin Healy

Dark waters are rising. Who will stay afloat?

Architect Vance Nolan has crafted a marvel—shining apartments floating in the peaceful cove of a winding river. The project is partially occupied and about to make investors rich when a sinkhole gives way.

Torrential rains quickly flood the cove, leaving a handful of builders, investors, and residents cut off from the rest of the world.

The motley group is bitterly divided over how to survive.

Vance insists they wait for rescue. Developer Tony Dean wants to strike out into the darkness. And single-mom Danielle Clement, obligated to each man and desperate to protect her young son, Simeon, isn’t sure which one is wiser.

Power failure, an unnatural daytime darkness, explosions, and a murder expose hidden intentions and dark histories. Then Simeon spots something strange underwater—beautiful, shifting lights in the dark depths.

In this watery world, everyone’s secrets will eventually come to light. And deliverance may mean more than just getting out alive.

My thoughts...

Healy's novels are known for their supernatural flavor, AFLOAT is the latest and it doesn't disappoint. Vance Nolan is an architect who has constructed apartments floating on a river. After copious amounts of rain a sinkhole opens up, the few residents along with investors find themselves floating in the middle of nowhere. Disagreements arise on how to get back to dry land with the rest of the world.

Strange things begin to happen... total darkness in the daytime... lights coming from underneath the water. After two deaths occur they are at their wit's end. I'll stop there as I don't want to give away too much of the story.

This is an awesome book, with enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. The characters are so different that they actually fit well together! Well written, fast paced, eerie...you'll love it! 5 out of 5 stars!!

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

THE BELOVED DAUGHTER by Alana Terry

In a small North Korean village, a young girl struggles to survive. But it is her father’s faith, not the famine of North Hamyong Province, that most threatens Chung-Cha’s well-being. Is Chung-Cha’s father right to be such a vocal believer? Or is he a fool to bring danger on the head of his only daughter?

Chung-Cha is only a girl of twelve and is too young to answer such questions. Yet she is not too young to face a life of imprisonment and forced labor. Her crime? Being the daughter of a political traitor.

“The Beloved Daughter” follows Chung-Cha into one of the most notorious prison camps of the contemporary free world. Will Chung-Cha survive the horrors of Camp 22? And if she does survive, will her faith remain intact?

 "The Beloved Daughter" is Alana Terry's debut Christian novel and was a winner in the Women of Faith writing contest.


  My thoughts...

This is such a gut wrenching book, many Christians think they face persecution when they really don't have a clue. Chung-Cha faced more than most of us would ever know about!

At the age of twelve, she and her parents were arrested for their belief in Jesus and thrown into a North Korean Labor camp, the horrors begin. The parents are forced to watch their child be abused and are ordered to denounce their faith in Jesus Christ. I couldn't bear the thought of seeing this happen to my children.

Chung-Cha is placed in solitary confinement, is tortured, starved, told her father has denounced Christ and more. What an amazing story of one little girls faith in God and the horrors she endured for her beliefs.

The author has given us a glimpse into what real persecution is, the faith of this child will touch your heart. I highly recommend this book!


I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

COLD KILLING by Luke Delaney

Cold Killing
by Luke Delaney
on Tour May 21st - June 21st 2013



After a young man is found brutally murdered in his own flat, DI Sean Corrigan, responsible for one of South London’s Murder Investigation Units, takes on the case. At first it appears to be a straightforward domestic murder, but immediately Corrigan suspects it is much more and it soon becomes clear he is hunting a particularly clever and ruthless serial killer who changes his modus operandi each time he kills, leaving no useable forensic evidence behind...

My thoughts...

Sean Corrigan is an unusual police officer, he can get inside the criminal's mind just by looking at the crime scene. This ability comes from a childhood ordeal which was very traumatic.

As Sean begins his investigation into this latest murder another body turns up. Sean is on the murderer's trail and as each chapter unfolds the book gets more chilling, more ghastly. The author truly did his research because the more I saw the world through the killer's eyes the more frightened I became.

This is a fast paced novel with vivid descriptions. There are many twists and turns, I thought I knew who the killer was but turns out I didn't. My favorite kind of mystery! I'm looking forward to Delaney's next crime novel.

Book Details Genre: Fiction/Thriller Published by: HarperCollins/William Morrow Paperbacks Publication Date: 05/21/2013 Number of Pages: 448 ISBN: 9780062219466 Series: 1st in the D.I. Sean Corrigan Series Purchase Links: