FIGHT FOR YOU by JASON DERULO

LOVE ME BAD by JAMES DURBIN

"Love Me Bad"






A cigarette fills an empty room

Smell of heartbreaks and cheap perfume

Photos scattered across my wall

Maybe someday I’ll take them off, but I miss you

Yeah, I still miss you



Yeah!

In the middle of the night

When I feel you by my side,

Well it’s nothing but a memory.

What if we never said goodbye,

If I never made you cry

Baby this is killing me,

So love me bad, love me bad

Yeah love me bad again.



All those words I never said,

On my lips taste like regret.

Promises like fake tattoos

After all that we've been through

Well I miss you

Yeah, I still miss you



Yeah!

In the middle of the night

When I feel you by my side,

Well it’s nothing but a memory.

What if we never said goodbye,

If I never made you cry

Baby this is killing me,

So love me bad, love me bad

Yeah love me bad again and again and again and again and again...

Again and again and again and again and again...



Love me bad, love me bad, love me bad



In the middle of the night

When I feel you by my side,

Well it’s nothing but a memory.

What if we never said goodbye,

If I never made you cry

Baby this is killing me,

So love me bad, love me bad

Yeah love me bad again

So love me bad, love me bad

Yeah love me bad again and again and again

THE DISCOVERY by DAN WALSH

Title: THE DISCOVERY
Author: Dan Walsh
Publisher: Revell; Original edition (April 1, 2012)
Pages: 352

I have to say THE DISCOVERY is my favorite DAN WALSH novel. I loved what MR. WALSH did with the storyline. I thought it to be wonderfully unique. The fact that he added history in was an added plus, just the right touch to give me a glimpse into the times without bogging me down with boring details. The voices of Michael and Ben were distinctly different.

Michael Warner’s grandfather passes away and with his passing leaves Michael his home. What he discovers will unravel family secrets beyond Michael’s imagination.

I loved the story of Ben and Claire. In many books you get to know the character before they die, so when they do you feel the loss. With THE DISCOVERY the initial death holds little meaning. In this wonderful novel things change and in doing so, by the end of the story you’re mourning the death. Brilliant!

While reading Ben and Claire’s story I completely forgot that Michael was reading it, so emerged in Ben and Claire’s tale I was.

The story may have been slow to start, but once you hit page seventy it takes off, making it hard to put down. I especially enjoyed the references to the past. My grandfather was a musician. The mention of the old time bands provided a wonderful trip down memory lane.

WHAT DOESN'T KILL YOU MAKES YOU STRONGER - KELLY CLARKSON

HER LONE STAR COWBOY by DEBRA CLOPTON

Title: Her Lone Star Cowboy
Author: Debra Clopton
Publisher: Love Inspired (March 20, 2012)
Pages: 224

DEBRA CLOPTON is one author that I continually look for her books. Each time I finish one I wish there were another waiting for to read. I own every single one she’s written. As soon as I heard the time was approaching for HER LONE STAR COWBOY to hit the stores, I started scanning the bookshelves. When I spotted it I was tempted to give someone nearby a high-five.

Jessie Holden has been hiding from his awful past. One he’d rather forget. When he meets the ever cheerful Gabi Newberry, she disrupts his years of confirmed bachelorhood, his anger towards the past, and issues he has with God.

Gabi may be a new believer but she doesn’t let that stop her from telling anyone in her path about her love for the Lord. That includes the handsome cowboy who seems to think his mission in life is to rescue her.

Once again MS CLOPTON has written a story with characters that will grab you and not let go. There were several memorable lines that made my jaw drop or put a smile on my face. I loved the characters stories. Gabi is not your typical heroine. I loved how she latches on to her new found faith and wants to shout it to the world.

Jessie, just like all the male characters in MS CLOPTON’S books, is one that will have your heart beating double time. You just can’t help but fall in love with him. MS CLOPTON continues to write exceptional stories with a path that will keep you guessing.

In HER LONE STAR COWBOY you get more than just a glimpse into Jessie’s brother’s life, Colt. You get involved, left yearning to read the rest of his story. Can’t wait for HER HOMECOMING COWBOY coming out in August 2012.

SECOND WORLD by RM WAGONER

Title: Second World
Author: R.M. Wagoner
Publisher: CreateSpace (September 20, 2011)
Pages: 170

As I started SECOND WORLD by RM WAGONER, I didn’t know what to expect. In the beginning I wasn’t sure where the story was going, but it was so well written and intrigued me enough to keep me turning the pages. When I realized what direction it was headed, I was hooked.

Clare’s family is anything but normal. Her father is temperamental, her mother emotionless, and her older sister bossy. Young Clare escapes her dysfunctional family while encountering supernatural forces, and embarks on a journey that will forever change her destiny.

For a book with only 170 pages, it packs a powerful punch. It’s beautifully crafted and filled with wisdom. Two books came to mind while reading SECOND WORLD, The Shack, by William P Young, and Hind Feet on High Places, by Hannah Hurnard.

It takes more than just good writing to produce a great book. It takes a well carried out plot, three-dimensional, fully developed characters, writing that is paced well, words that flow naturally, believable action, consequences, and dialogue that work. One that makes you forget you’re reading a story, so emerged in the pages you’ll be. SECOND WORLD was all of that and so much more.

I was speechless as the story neared the end. I was jolted into tears and left deep in thought, needing moments to absorb the story that unfolded in the course of only a few short days. The insight to good and evil that is in this world, along with God’s goodness and grace is astounding. The author pulled off faith woven in such a natural way you don’t feel preached too.

SECOND WORLD would make a wonderful addition to the classics in most schools now days as part of their curriculum. What a refreshing read for young adults as well as any age. I fear my words will fail do this book justice. If this is MS WAGONER’S first published book, I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the future.

A WEDDING TRASPIRES ON MACKINA ISLAND by CARA C. PUTMAN

Title: A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island
Author: Cara C Putman
Publisher: Barbour Books (April 1, 2012)
Pages: 320

If you like a fun, contemporary, light mystery with a splash of suspense, then A WEDDING TRASPIRES ON MACKINAC ISLAND by CARA C. PUTMAN is a novel you’ll want to be sure to read.

Attorney Alanna Stone has avoided Mackinac Island, and the man she loved for over a decade. When her mother summons her back to that very place, she goes but not without trepidation. The man she loved had betrayed her, but he wasn’t the only reason she fled the Island. As luck would have it she bumps into Jonathan Covington shortly after arriving on Mackinac Island. Alanna soon finds herself in the mist of the very reason she stayed away from the Island for so long.

After Alanna left Mackinac Island, Jonathan lost interest in relationships. His heart was for one woman and one woman only…and she’d disappeared from his life long ago. Shocked to see Alanna return, he wonders if it’s too late for them.

Alanna and Jonathan have past issues that must be resolve before they can open their hearts to one another again...but with God, all things are possible.

MISSISSIPPI NIGHTS by D.M. WEBB

Title: Mississippi Nights
Author: D.M. Webb
Publisher: Ambassador International (January 6, 2012)
Pages: 384

There are books that I dread reviewing because I didn't like them. Then there are those that I'm already writing one in my mind after only reading a few chapters. MISSISSIPPI NIGHTS by D.M. WEBB is the later.

Three years after Firefighter David Boyette left home, he returns to face his brother, Sgt. Jeremy Boyette. But that's not all David has to face. He has a secret he's been hiding as well.

When David encounters Maggie Goddard, the preachers beautiful daughter, there's an immediate attraction. He tries to hide his demons from her but demons have a way of eventually making themselves known.

The prolog in MISSISSIPPI NIGHTS was probably one of the most intriguing I've ever read. I can't recall one in the past that drew me in so quickly and deeply. MS. WEBB has written an amazing story with three dimensional characters, wonderful writing, original lines, with a great plot that's unpredictable throughout.

I laughed. I cried. I ached as well as rooted for the characters. MISSISSIPPI NIGHTS is a page turner that will keep you on your toes right up to the end. I was shocked at how much transpired the last hundred pages. It was packed full of action, twist, turns, surprises and more. MS WEBB'S experience as a Firefight/EMT was evident. The details phenomenal. The romance was subtle yet profound.

MS. WEBB deals with some tough issues, handled wonderfully. She plays it out perfectly, not skimping. I'm a Christian. I read a lot of Christian fiction. I'm a romantic at heart. Read lots of romances. What I found so unique about MISSISSIPPI NIGHTS is how true to life everything was carried out.

Just because one believes in God, doesn't mean they're a fully devoted/mature Christian. It's a journey unique to each individual. It was refreshing to read fiction Christian with characters that struggled with real life issues, weren't perfect, and stumbled. The characters drank, smoked, used foul language (implied), were physical (non-sexual), went to a bar, struggled with addictions, falling several times before heading on the path to recovery.

Through all of this, MS WEBB was able to weave faith and character growth. Amazing. I can't wait to see what MS WEBB has in store for future books.

UNLEASH THE WRITER WITHIN, The Essential Writers’ Companion, by CECIL MURPHEY

Title: Unleash The Writer Within
Author: Cecil Murphey
Publisher: OakTara (November 18, 2011)
Pages: 160

When Editorial Director of Oak Tara, Ramona Cramer Tucker, spoke at our monthly ACFW Chicago Northwest Chapter meeting, she came with a stack of books to sell. One of them was UNLEASH THE WRITER WITHIN, The Essential Writers’ Companion, by CECIL MURPHEY. She raved about the book, claiming it was different than any other writing book out there. I was currently reading what I thought to be the greatest writing book. Surly UNLEASH THE WRITER WITHIN wasn’t going to tell me anything I hadn’t already heard.

Only because Ms. Tucker spoke so enthusiastically about UNLEASH THE WRITER WITHIN, and because it was reasonable priced, as well as it looked like a quick read, I reluctantly purchased it. What did I need with another book about writing? I had several at home waiting to be read.

As I began to read UNLEASH THE WRITER WITHIN, I was quickly drawn in. This was not your typical book on writing. It reads like a great novel or perhaps a well written diary. The chapters are short, packed full of great information. The content is honest, refreshing, full of wisdom and courage.

If you were to look into my copy you’d find several dog eared pages, highlight galore and words written throughout. What a refreshing read. Over the years I’ve been inundated with how to or what I should write. In this book Mr. Murphey speaks from the heart what many writers often think but are reluctant to express.

At the end of each chapter there is an aphorism that sums up the contents. At the end of the book there is a list of all twenty-seven, a great review/reminder. If I had to pick one that was the most impactful and profound, I couldn’t. Instead I came up with five.

#15. “I learn from other writers. I grow my voice by paying attention to the writers I like to read.”

#21. “I want to be the best me I can, so I follow my natural rhythm, and don’t try to imitate anyone else.”

#25. “I can resent others for their achievements, or I can admire them for what they’ve accomplished. I can determine to work as hard as they do.”

#26. “I am a passionate person. I can be a passionate writer if I choose.”

#27. “This is the best I can do at this stage of my development.”

I have always felt that I must write what I feel in my soul, what is right, not what society, editors, publishers or the market deems I should write. Cecil Murphey’s words not only confirm that to be a good thing, he lives by it. From what I understand of Oak Tara, they too believe the same, and are willing to give author’s the chance to speak from their heart.

If the only thing UNLEASH THE WRITER WITHIN taught me was #27, “This is the best I can do at this stage of my development.” it was worth every penny. I highly recommend this book to all writers no matter where they are in their journey of writing.

KELLY CLARKSON - WHAT DOESN'T KILL YOU, MAKES YOU STRONGER

"What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger)"

You know the bed feels warmer
Sleeping here alone
You know I dream in color
And do the things I want

You think you got the best of me
Think you've had the last laugh
Bet you think that everything good is gone
Think you left me broken down
Think that I'd come running back
Baby you don't know me, cause you're dead wrong

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone
What doesn't kill you makes a fighter
Footsteps even lighter
Doesn't mean I'm over cause you're gone

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, stronger
Just me, myself and I
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone

You heard that I was starting over with someone new
They told you I was moving on, over you

You didn't think that I'd come back
I'd come back swinging
You try to break me, but you see

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone
What doesn't kill you makes a fighter
Footsteps even lighter
Doesn't mean I'm over cause you're gone

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, stronger
Just me, myself and I
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone

Thanks to you I got a new thing started
Thanks to you I'm not the broken-hearted
Thanks to you I'm finally thinking about me
You know in the end the day you left was just my beginning
In the end...

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone
What doesn't kill you makes a fighter
Footsteps even lighter
Doesn't mean I'm over cause you're gone

[2x]
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, stronger
Just me, myself and I
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone

THE IRISH HEALER by NANCY HERRIMAN

Title: THE IRISH HEALER
Author: Nancy Herriman
Publisher: Worthy Publishing (April 3, 2012)
Pages: 320

THE IRISH HEALER by NANCY HERRIMAN is my first read by this author, and I feel fortunate to have come across this novel. I was drawn to the storyline and time period, but that doesn’t ensure an enjoyable read. Often a book can start out well, the author taking care to captivate the reader. But what sets authors apart is those that can carry a well written and intriguing story from the very first page to the last.

Accused of murder, Rachel Dunne is forced to leave her family and hometown in Ireland. Her cousin has secured Rachel temporary employment with Dr. James Edmunds. But she has a secret she fears if discovered will cost her her job. But Rachel’s not the only one with a secret. The good Doctor has one of his own.

Rachel can’t understand why God has placed her in the very situation she escaped from. James’ hurts go deep as he gave in to man’s, rather than God’s, plan for his life. But with God’s help, will Rachel and James find their way back to their purpose and passion in life…and a love they never dreamed of.

NANCY HERRIMAN has written a fantastic novel. I thought I was in London, back in the 1830’s. The characters were vivid with realistic strengths and weaknesses. As an aspiring writer, I tend to analyze everything I read, any flaws in the writing, the plot or characters. THE IRISH HEALER left no room for improvement. It was beautifully done.

I look forward to reading more novels by MS. HERRIMAN in the future.

MARRYING MINISTER RIGHT by ANNIE JONES

Title: Marrying Minister Right
Author: Annie Jones
Publisher: Steeple Hill Love Inspired (July 1, 2009)
Pages: 207

MARRYING MINISTER RIGHT by ANNIE JONES is a sweet romance. The storyline is unique, the characters different than others I've read, and the writing is good. I felt there was telling at times when there could have been showing. I would have loved to have a deeper point of view for the characters. I did find myself smiling at several unique lines.

MARRYING MINISTER RIGHT is a quick and easy read.

Heather Waters life is suddenly disrupted when she finds herself back in her hometown after a tornado ravages the town she ran from years ago. Heather must face her fears of entering the very building where she was humiliated, and a man she had been disappointed in since she was last there.

Reverend Michael Garrison puts out a call to an old friend to help clean up his town. If he were honest with himself, he hoped Heather would never leave again. Right from the start Michael senses things aren't right between Heather and him. If only she knew of the love he has for her...has always had.

A teenage girl and a town in ruins have Michael and Heather working side by side. In time they admit their weakness, and let God's love triumph.

THE GOLDEN HOUR by MARGARET WURTELE

Title: The Golden Hour
Author: Margaret Wurtele
Publisher: NAL Trade; 1 Original edition (February 7, 2012)
Pages: 352

I really wanted to like this book. As an aspiring author, I HATE having to give a negative review, and avoid them at all cost. It really pains me to not complete a book. When I got to page sixty in THE GOLDEN HOUR by MARGARET WURTELE, I put it down.

Writing is subjective, so please don’t go by my review alone.

I couldn’t connect with any of the characters. The story randomly jumped around, and the dialogue was minimal. On a better note, I thought the writing was good, and the storyline had potential.

From the back cover:
“Set in the summer of 1944 in Tuscany, Giovanna Bellini, the daughter of a wealthy aristocrat and vineyard owner, has just turned seventeen and is on the cusp of adulthood. War bears down on her peaceful little village after the Italians sign a separate peace with the Allies-transforming the Germans into an occupying army.
But when her brother joins the Resistance, he asks Giovanna to hide a badly wounded fighter who is Jewish. As she nurses him back to health, she falls helplessly in love with the brave and humble Marco, who comes from as ancient and noble an Italian family as she does. They pledge their love, and then must fight a real battle against the Nazis who become more desperate and cruel as the Allies close in on Europe...”

WRAPPED IN RAIN by CHARLES MARTIN

Title: Wrapped in Rain
Author: Charles Martin
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 6, 2011)
Pages: 336

I had WRAPPED IN RAIN by CHARLES MARTIN sitting in my pile of books to read for a couple of months. Once I finally made the decision to read it, I did so with uncertainty, which is often the case with authors I’m unfamiliar with.

If I’m honest, I was a bit confused in the beginning, and a little disappointed with the absence of a love interest for the main character. At page sixty-two, to my utter surprise and delight, Katie stepped into the pages.

I was hooked!

Tucker Rain is a famous photographer with a childhood story that would curl your toes. His father, an alcoholic and abusive man, showed no love for his two young sons. If it were not for Miss Ella, the woman Tucker’s father hired to take care of their home and keep Tucker and his brother out of sight, things could have ended up quite differently.

WRAPPED IN RAIN is an amazing story about neglect, abuse, love, faith, forgiveness, and hope. As a writer I often pick apart the novels I read, so it’s not very often I come across one that I wouldn’t change a thing, and WRAPPED IN RAIN is one of them.

The storyline was amazing, the writing superb, and the characters three dimensional. The main characters as well as the secondary came to life with unique personalities, goals, trials and tribulations.

There were several lines that had me shaking my head, they were that good. I laughed, I cried. I wanted to reach through the pages and wrap my arms around the characters. Take a road trip for the opportunity to meet them. To reach out and let them know how sorry I am for all they’ve been through, and how proud I am of them for not giving up.

MR. MARTIN wasn’t afraid to incorporated real life situations that we often don’t speak of, adding flavor, uniqueness with gumption.

I like faith to be woven in naturally, not preachy. Never having heard of CHARLES MARTIN prior to reading WRAPPED IN RAIN, I had no idea what to expect. It was brilliantly written. The faith aspect was woven in naturally, and profoundly. It was all Miss Ella, none of the author…that’s truly amazing.

My favorite quote is on page 250:

“Tucker, you won’t understand this until you have a boy of your own, but listen close. The sins of the father are carried down to the son. There’s nothing you can do to stop what’s passed to you. You are going to wrestle with it until the day you die, whether you like it or not. The only choice is whether or not you pass them to your son. Stopping it is a choice you make.”

WRAPPED IN RAIN is now on my list of all time favorite books. One that I’ll recommend to others in the future. I look forward to reading more books by CHARLES MARTIN.

Do yourself a favor…wrap yourself in this book and get lost in the world of Rain.

STEIN ON WRITING by Sol Stein

Title: Stein on Writing
Author: So Stein
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin; 1st edition (January 25, 2000)
Pages: 320

STEIN ON WRITING by SOL STEIN is clearly to date the most impactful book on writing I’ve read. If you were to glance inside my copy you’d find dog-eared pages, highlights galore, asterisks, and notes written throughout.

STEIN ON WRITING is precise information, right to the point with useful examples. The language isn’t over the top. A must read for writers at any stage of their journey, but especially for those new to the craft and unpublished.

Here are a few notes I took pertaining to specific areas of the book:

Page 8 – Feelings, no facts.

Page 20 – Must grasp/shock in first sentence and or paragraph.

Page 36 – The first paragraph should contain:
Trigger curiosity.
What will they see.
Focus on an individual.
Visible characteristics of the individual.
Individual doing or saying something.
Startling or odd fact to grab attention.

Page 42 – Readers insist on seeing what they are reading because of TV.

Page 43 - Description needs to be part of the storytelling, not static.

Page 45 – Storyteller, not an interior decorator.

Page 49 – If characters are alive, they become the story. You must know and be attached to the characters in order for the plot to work, not the other way around.

Page 57 – Talk and act, not tell.

Page 54 – Good examples of showing not telling.

Page 55 – Show with eyes, not just state color. How/what are they expressing.

Page 55, 56 – Words need to not be just informative, but evoke something. Need to stir feelings in readers, even in description.

Page 62 – What makes a character.

Page 71 – Individualize minor characters through main characters eyes, not narrative.

Page 75 – Separate our lives/beliefs from characters.

Page 81 – Character questions to ask.

Page 197 – Get rid of the flab!

Page 260 – Need to visualize each paragraph/scene first to get a sense of the surroundings to give great detail.

If I had to pick one thing that stuck out the most that I learned from STEIN ON WRITING, I would have to say to cut out the flab. After reading about eliminating flab, I went to work on my own manuscript, getting rid of the words that clog our writing and hinder our reading experience.

HIS STEADFAST LOVE by GOLDEN KEYES PARSONS

Title: His Steadfast Love
Author: Golden Keyes Parsons
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (November 1, 2011)
Pages: 336

Amanda Belle takes the responsibility of raising her siblings seriously, a promise placed on her before her mother passed away. When her brother heads off to war, Amanda’s responsibilities increase.

Captain Kent Littlefield, with the Union troops, and his men are forced to take refuge in the home of a family from a Confederate State. When he sets eyes on Amanda Belle, he is instantly drawn to her.

When Amanda’s father discovers his daughter has feelings for a man their state if fighting against, he demands she never see him again. When her brother learns of this, he forces her to make a decision. Amanda’s family or the man she loves.

What I liked about the book:
-The history.
-Well written.
-The well thought-out plot.
-The unique storyline.
-The low key, yet sold faith.
-The choices the author made in revealing some of the horrors of war.
-How the story progressed over several years.

What I didn’t like about the book:
-The slow pace.
-The lack of interaction between the main characters, Amanda and Kent.
-The lack of drama between the main characters.

I loved how the author started each chapter with the month and year, along with non-fiction script. Though the story read at a slow pace, I was captivated by the lives of the characters as they lived through a war.

If you’re looking for a novel filled with romance, HIS STEADFAST LOVE by GOLDEN KEYES PARSONS will not fit the bill.

If you’re looking for a wonderful story set in Texas at the beginning of the Civil War, laced with romance, suspense, history, and faith, then HIS STEADFAST LOVE is for you.

A RANGER'S TRAIL by DARLENE FRANKLIN

Title: A Ranger’s Trail (The Texas Trail Series)
Author: Darlene Franklin
Publisher: Moody Publishers; New Edition edition (February 1, 2012)
Pages: 288

In A RANGER'S TRAIL, author DARLENE FRANKLIN has incorporated fiction with non-fiction, set in the late 1800's. FRANKLIN provides insight to which characters are fictional and which are not. Each chapter begins with a real life account from actual documents that pertain to that particular chapter, an added plus to this historical novel.

Leta Denning witnesses the killing of her husband in the hands of angry men after being acquitted from cattle rustling. She is left alone to care for her young son and teenage brother. Bringing her husband's killers to justice is never far from her mind as she wrestles with all she's lost.

Texas Ranger, Buck Morgan comes home after an extended absence to uncover a wrongful killing. What he hadn't expected is the widow,Leta Denning to be a beautiful and strong independent woman.

The account of the range wars and cattle rustling will intrigue male readers as well as females, despite the romantic element. A RANGER'S TRAIL is the forth book of six in THE TEXAS TRAIL SERIES.

A TOWN CALLED VALENTINE by EMMA CANE

Title: A Town Called Valentine
Author: Emma Cane
Publisher: Avon (January 31, 2012)
Pages: 384

Emily Murphy returned to her mother’s hometown for one reason and one reason only. For a quick sale on the building willed to her. But as life often goes, another plan started to materialize.

Nate Thalberg is a real ladies man. Not that any woman got past his ten date rule. Nate has wounds, and refuses to hurt another woman…or himself for that matter.

Emily discovers something she never imagined. As her mother’s secret unravels, so does Emily’s heart. Nate learns to live life, and in the process discovers he may have found the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with.

If there ever was a book that stirred up mixed feelings, it’s A TOWN CALLED VALENTINE by EMMA CANE. The cover is what originally caught my eye like it so often does. The back cover blurb was intriguing. I’ve never read one of MS CANE’S books in the past, so after starting it, I looked to see what other books she wrote on Amazon. I was surprised to discover this was her first, it was that good.

The first half of the book read at a steady pace, had a good plot, and was well written. So well written I searched the internet for more information on MS CANE. It was then that I discovered this was not technically her first book. Just her first under this genre, and using the name EMMA CANE.

What I didn’t like about A TOWN CALLED VALENTINE:

-The second half of the book contained repetition and telling.
-Lack of peaks.
-Lack of tension between any of the characters.
-The characters casual sex.
-The foul language.

What I loved about A TOWN CALLED VALENTINE:

-The words the author chose.
-The characters.
-The plot.
-The fictional Town of Valentine Valley.

Though I would have preferred no sexual encounters between the characters, the author didn’t get as detailed as she could have, and for that I was grateful. I also prefer no foul language, and again MS CANE didn’t go overboard with that as well.

I loved the plot, though I felt she could have stepped it up. There were many opportunities for amazing tension filled scenes. I felt everything was kept on an even-keel. The characters were well thought-out, with such great goals and motivations; the potential for some amazing conflicts was overlooked.

For the first time ever I kept paper and pencil nearby as I read this novel to markdown evey word or phrase I came across that intrigued me. One of my weaknesses as a writer is my limited vocabulary, I found MS CANE’S brilliant. Her choice of words never felt forced or misplaced. For that alone this books was worth reading.

BRAD PAISLEY - I'm Still a Guy

When you see a deer, you see Bambi
And I see antlers up on the wall
When you see a lake you think picnics
And I see a large mouth up under that log

You're probably thinkin' that you're gonna change me
In some ways, well, maybe you might
Scrub me down, dress me up
Oh, but no matter what, remember, I'm still a guy

When you see a priceless friend's painting
I see a drunk naked girl
When you think that riding a wild bull sounds crazy
And I'd like to give it a whirl

Well, love makes a man do some things he ain't proud of
And in a weak moment I might
Walk your sissie dog, hold your purse at the mall
But remember, I'm still a guy

And I'll pour out my heart, hold your hand in the car
Write a love song that makes you cry
Then turn right around, knock some jerk to the ground
'Cause he copped a feel as you walked by

I can hear you now talkin' to your friends
Sayin' yeah, girls he's come a long way
From draggin' his knuckles and carryin' a club
And buildin' a fire in a cave

But when you say a back rub means only a back rub
Then you swat my hand when I try
Well, now what can I say at the end of the day
Honey, I'm still a guy

And I'll pour out my heart, hold your hand in the car
Write a love song that makes you cry
Then turn right around knock some jerk to the ground
'Cause he copped a feel as you walked by

These days there's dudes gettin' facials
Manicured, waxed and botoxed
With deep spray-on tans and creamy lotiony hands
You can't grip a tackle box

Yeah, with all of these men linin' up to get neutered
It's hip now to be feminized
But I don't highlight my hair, I've still got a pair
Yeah honey, I'm still a guy

Oh, my eyebrows ain't plucked, there's a gun in my truck
Oh thank God, I'm still a guy
Yeah boy

CHRIS CAGLE - I Breathe In, I Breathe Out

Lately I've been runnin'
Into our old friends
And somewhere in the small talk
Someone always asks where you've been
So I tell them what you told me
And they can't believe we're through
They ask me what I'm doin' now
And in case you're wonderin' too

I breathe in I breathe out
Put one foot in front of the other
Take one day at a time
'Til you find
I'm that someone you can't live without
Until then
I breathe in and breathe out
I've got every reason
To find someone new
Cause you swore up and down to me

That I've seen the last of you
But the way that you loved me
Girl, left me hopin' and holdin' on
So until this world stops turning round
And my heart believes you're gone

I breathe in I breathe out
Put one foot in front of the other
Take one day at a time
'Til you find
I'm that someone you can't live without
Until then
I breathe in and breathe out

We were meant to be
Girl, there's no doubt
And if it takes the rest of my life
For you to figure it out

FALLING FOR THE FIREMAN by ALLIE PLEITER

Title: Falling for the Fireman
Author: Allie Pleiter
Publisher: Love Inspired; Large Print edition (January 24, 2012)
Pages: 224

As a wife of a firefighter, FALLING FOR THE FIREMAN by ALLIE PLEITER caught my attention. It wasn’t just the cover or the title, but the author herself. I’m a huge fan of the historicals she’s written.

Jeannie Nelworth knows all too well the devastating consequences of a fire. After a fire took her home, her son started acting out. Lucky for Jeannie, Fire Marshall Chad Owens spots the distress in her son’s eyes and offers to help

If there’s one thing Chad Owens is good at, it’s distancing himself from others. Especially women. After all he’d let his fiancée down in the worst possible way.

Typical of Allie Pleiter’s writing, she made me laugh. I was in awe of the great lines she came up with, something she never fails to deliver in each story she writes. I was amazed at the depth of each character’s unique circumstance as well as fascinated by the facts she touches on.

It’s not too often that I walk away from reading a Love Inspired story feeling enriched by the subject matter. The Chinese lanterns were especially interesting, and such a neat touch to the story. I also commend her for bringing to light the different affects a fire can have in one’s life, not taking the typical route with the characters in regards to their situation.

For such a small book, ALLIE PLEITER packed it full of information and unique situations.

CRY OUT TO JESUS by THIRD DAY

"Cry Out To Jesus"

To everyone who's lost someone they love
Long before it was their time
You feel like the days you had were not enough
when you said goodbye

And to all of the people with burdens and pains
Keeping you back from your life
You believe that there's nothing and there is no one
Who can make it right

There is hope for the helpless
Rest for the weary
Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness
Mercy and healing
He'll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus, Cry out to Jesus

For the marriage that's struggling just to hang on
They lost all of their faith in love
They've done all they can to make it right again
Still it's not enough

For the ones who can't break the addictions and chains
You try to give up but you come back again
Just remember that you're not alone in your shame
And your suffering

When your lonely
And it feels like the whole world is falling on you
You just reach out, you just cry out to Jesus
Cry to Jesus

To the widow who suffers from being alone
Wiping the tears from her eyes
For the children around the world without a home
Say a prayer tonight

THE ROSE OF WINSLOW STREET by ELIZABETH CAMDEN

Title: The Rose of Winslow Street
Author: Elizabeth Camden
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (January 1, 2012)
Pages: 342

THE ROSE OF WINSLOW STREET is the first book I’ve read by Elizabeth Camden, but it won’t be the last. In many cases a novel starts out with a bang, just to dwindle within the first fifty pages. Then there are those that don’t start out well and continue in the same pace. With THE ROSE OF WINSLOW STREET, it started out at an ever pace, nothing causing my heart to race. But in a relatively short time the story took off.

I was hooked!

Liberty Sawyer is not what she appears. She is beautiful, well dressed and comes from a fine family. An outsider would never suspect the horrifying secret she guards so fiercely.

Michael Dobrescu has only recently arrived in America. He shocks the town of Colden, Massachusetts by storming in and taking over the Sawyer’s home.

To Libby’s father’s horror, she befriends Michael despite his outrageous claim on their home. Michael is not what he appears and in spite of her father and the people of Colden, Libby can’t seem to get Michael out of her thoughts.

As an aspiring writer there aren’t too many books I come across that I don’t edit as I read. THE ROSE OF WINSLOW STREET is one of those few. Most of us don’t have the luxury to sit for long hours to complete a book in one sitting. Many books have places where we are able to comfortably set it down. THE ROSE OF WINSLOW STREET is not one of them. The only good place to stop is upon completion.

The writing is exquisite. The plot is captivating. The characters are amazing. I loved the uniqueness of both Michael and Libby. I’m not sure if I can ever look at a rose in the same way after reading MS. CAMDEN’S novel. I’ve certainly learned a great deal about roses and perfume.

Michael was such a wonderful mix of strength, masculinity, protectiveness and tenderness. His chosen profession and passion in life is a bipolar difference from his outer appearance.

Libby’s “disability” was refreshing and unique. A true testament to how God made us each distinctively different, yet with a talent or passion to be carried out for the good.

The faith portion was carried out lightly in a way that will please readers no matter where they are in their journey. It’s not preachy, yet one has to admire the characters solid beliefs and morals.

It’s not very often that I immediately purchase another book by the same author I’m reading before I’ve even completed it. But that’s exactly what I’ve done. I can’t wait to receive my copy of THE LADY OF BOLTON HILL. I have no doubt the pages will captivate me in the same way THE ROSE OF WINSLOW STREET has.

SUMMER OF PROMISE by AMANDA CABOT

Title: Summer of Promise
Author: Amanda Cabot
Publisher: Revell (January 1, 2012)
Pages: 416

A love of historical romances originally drew me to SUMMER OF PROMISE by AMANDA CABOT. Discovering it took place in Wyoming was the sealed the deal. As I began to read and realized it was set at Fort Laramie, I quickly flipped back to the front cover. Sure enough the building was the exact one I had taken pictures of on a trip to Fort Laramie, Wyoming a few years back.

In reading the authors notes, she too visited Fort Laramie and was quickly inspired to write a story. Having been there I couldn’t agree more. While I was there I recorded information for a book that I was writing based out of Hartville, Wyoming, not far from there. I hope to visit Fort Laramie one day with my family, and I’m sure when I do, SUMMER OF PROMISE will once again come alive.

When Abigail Harding set out to confirm her suspicions about her sister, she never imagined what God had planned for her. An attempted stagecoach robbery. A man who killed for a living. And...

Ethan Bowles has lived a life protecting his heart, so love was not in the picture. That is until he meets the beautiful and impulsive Abigail Harding. Only problem is, she’s promised to a man back home in Vermont. Even if that were not the case, she’d made it perfectly clear that Wyoming was boring and not for her.

AMANDA CABOT writes a wonderful historical romance with an equal portion of suspense, intrigue, and romance. The majority of books I read are Christian fiction, but I don’t welcome being preached too. I believe that stories need to be realistic, and sin, trials and tribulations are a part of life. SUMMOR OF PROMISE met my desire on both accounts.

The faith aspect was mildly woven in with just the right amount. I liked that the secondary characters in the story were allowed to drink and visit “Peg’s”. There are some faith based publishers that doesn’t allow such things, even though it’s the “bad guys” that do so or a character that goes through a faith growth. I loved the ending as well. Readers will be kept guessing, and are in for a not so common ending.

Though there are several characters, each were unique and well thought-out. I really loved the idea of touching on one of the secondary characters throughout the book, to later discover her story will be continued in the next book.

MS CABOT has done an amazing job of creating intrigue and anticipation for her next book in this WESTWARD WINDS series.

KISS CRUSH COLLIDE by Christina Meredith

Title: Kiss Crush Collide
Author: Christina Meredith
Publisher: Greenwillow Books (December 27, 2011)
Pages: 320

What first drew me to KISS CRUSH COLLIDE by CHRISTINA MEREDITH, was in fact the cover. The title, not so great, yet it sounded interesting enough. I’ve been increasingly attracted to young adult books since my teenage daughter got me hooked on one. Each one she’s suggested was wonderfully written. KISS CRUSH COLLIDE was no exception.

Leah Johnson had her life planned out. Not that she did any of the planning. Nope, there was no need for that when she had a mother and two sisters before her that she was expected to follow in their footsteps. Only problem was, Leah wants to live her own life.

With the perfect boyfriend, Shane, why would any girl want to end their relationship? For that matter why would anyone who had it all, a promised spot as Valedictorian, prom queen, homecoming queen and the most popular girl in school, give it all up for a guy she hardly knows.

What I love about KISS CRUSH COLLIDE:

-The fast pace.
-Well developed female characters.
-Beautiful writing.
-The main characters final decision.

What I didn’t like about KISS CRUSH COLLIDE:

-The male characters weren’t developed/no deep point of view.
-The foul language.
-Not a lot of dialog.
-Not enough drama.

I would have loved to see tension between Shane, the “boyfriend” and “Porter”, the “other guy”. I appreciated there was no explicit sex, though I would have preferred a better choice on Leah’s part. I also appreciated the minimal foul language, especially considering the targeted audience.

The writing was wonderful, flowing beautifully, so much so that I finished it in only a few short days. I felt the female characters were well developed, very strong personalities, but the males were vague. I would have liked to of heard more about Porter’s story, having it played out.

I was however pleased with the ending, though it left me wanting more. As if a new story was just about to unfold. I could easily see a second book to develop Leah and Porter’s romance. I would say MEREDITH did an excellent job with her debut novel.