December 18, 2009 1:09 AM

FRIDAY FOUR: Christmas Reads

The holidays are (almost) here! Seeing as there are only seven sleeps left until Christmas, here's a Friday chick-lit selection to guarantee some added Christmas spirit! Read on for four great holiday novels...

The Christmas Cookie Club by Ann Pearlman

Every year on the first Monday of December, Marnie and her twelve closest girlfriends gather in the evening with batches of beautifully wrapped homemade cookies. Everyone has to bring a dish, a bottle of wine, and their stories. This year, the stories are especially important. Marnie's oldest daughter has a risky pregnancy. Will she find out tonight how that story might end? Jeannie's father is having an affair with her best friend. Who else knew about the betrayal, and how can that be forgiven or forgotten, even among old friends such as these? Rosie's husband doesn't want children, and she has to decide, very soon, whether or not that's a deal breaker for the marriage. Taylor's life is in financial freefall. Each woman, each friend has a story to tell, and they are all interwoven, just as their lives are.

Fairytale of New York by Miranda Dickinson

Once upon a time an English girl went to New York to live out her very own fairytale! Florist Rosie Duncan's life couldn't be better, she has a flourishing business on New York's Upper West Side and fantastic friends. Moving to Manhattan feels like the best decision she ever made. Even though at the time, it was her escape route from heartbreak ...For the past six years Rosie has kept her heart under lock and key, despite the protests of her closest friends - charming, commitment-phobic Ed, unlucky in love Marnie and the one-woman tornado that is Celia. Then a blossoming friendship with publishing hot-shot Nate begins to shake Rosie's resolve at the same time as her brother arrives in the Big Apple, hiding a secret. But a chance meeting brings Rosie face to face with her past, unravelling the mystery behind her arrival in New York. Rosie is forced to confront questions she has long been trying to ignore, including will she ever get her very own happy-ever-after?

High Heels and Holidays by Kasey Michaels

Mystery writer and amateur sleuth Maggie Kelly gets an unseasonable Christmas package in her fifth outing (after 2005's High Heels and Homicide), a blithe mix of romantic fantasy and whodunit plotting. With the help of the Viscount Saint Just (her fictional Regency Era creation miraculously come to life as a handsome, protective suitor), her ex-boyfriend, NYPD detective Steve Wendell, and her publisher, Bernice Toland-James, Maggie figures out she's not the only mystery writer to receive a dead rat and death threat in the mail. Maggie wonders about a recently deceased colleague, an apparent suicide, and her suspicion becomes alarm when another writer turns up murdered.

Blue Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews

Weezie Foley is bent on winning Savannah's downtown window-decorating contest, but as soon as she picks up the hot-glue gun, strange things start happening. Her boyfriend, Daniel, is grumpier than usual; Weezie's dog, Jethro, goes missing and is anonymously returned; a platter of bacon-wrapped shrimp is stolen from Weezie's refrigerator; and a woman is found sleeping in Weezie's shop window. Andrews (Savannah Breeze; Hissy Fit) nails idiosyncratic Southern charm and teases out a touching denouement.

Have YOU got any favourite holiday reads? Let us know in the comments!

Posted by Elle Symonds on December 18, 2009 in Books, Inspirational | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 8, 2009 9:59 PM

Writing a book? Here's how NOT to do it...

So, for all the aspiring authors out there...what writing guides do you swear by?

Posted by Elle Symonds on February 8, 2009 in Book News, Inspirational | Permalink | Comments (3)

November 14, 2008 10:22 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Engaging Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn & My Mother's Wish by Jerry Camery-Hoggatt

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Two Christmas Stories You Can Believe In

I love Christmas. I love the lights, the tree, even the hustle and bustle. But, one of my most favorite things about Christmas is treating myself to a cup of cocoa and a good Christmas story. Some years I'm drawn back to the old standbys like A Christmas Carol or even How The Grinch Stole Christmas. But, this year I have two new Christmas favorites.

The first book, Engaging Father Christmas, is actually the second book in a series by Robin Jones Gunn. (The first book is Finding Father Christmas - my last year's favorite.)

Gunn's novellas are cozy. Set in London, they have everything I need for a heartwarming Christmastime read - love, intrigue and, of course, a happy ending. The books each stand alone, but my recommendation would be to read them together.

In Engaging Father Christmas, the main character, Miranda Carson, is headed to see her boyfriend whom she met the prior Christmas. She's unsure of exactly where they stand and running into a old flame at the train station makes things even more complicated. She's also in town to see her step-mother - a woman who hasn't been able (or willing) to accept her as a true member of the family. She's hoping this trip she'll be able to win her approval and finally have a real family. But, a serious of events casts a doubtful shadow over Miranda's trip and she's not sure she'll ever find a family to belong to.

The second story is My Mother's Wish: An American Christmas Carol by Jerry Camery-Hoggatt. The US is joining the ranks of the Christmas Carol producers and this YA novella is a sweet example. Ellee, a frustrated teenage girl, just doesn't see things the way the rest of the world does. Her controlling mother won't give her a break, even refusing to refer to her as anything but Eleanor (her grandmother and namesake) and comparing her every move to that of her perfect sister.

Ellee finally gets fed up and decides that running away from home is the only way to escape her mother's disappointment in her. She gets more than she bargained for when she finds herself at the Comeback Cafe with no money, no ride and not a friend in site. Lives interwoven is the theme of this book and it's a beautiful picture of how each of us can have an effect on those around us.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Aigua Media on November 14, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 24, 2008 9:35 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Miracle Girls by Anne Dayton and May Vanderbilt

Reviewed by Jill Hart

The Miracle Girls is a sweet novel about second chances. Ana Dominguez has just moved to Half Moon Bay and is doing her best to fit in to her new life. Unfortunately, Riley, the most popular girl in school, has singled Ana out for her own brand of high school torture. When Ana and Riley end up in detention together, Ana is sure things can't get any worse.

God uses this bad situation to bring Ana together with a group of girls (Riley included) who, like her, are living their second chance at life. Ana realizes that they have been brought together for a purpose, but she must now convince the other "Miracle Girls" - maybe not Riley - that their friendship is meant to be.

I really enjoyed Miracle Girls and am already looking forward to the next book in the series. This is the type of novel that is timeless, that I'll want my daughter to read when she hits her teens (or tweens). I look forward to the day when I can share my love of reading - and clean, godly books like this one - with her.

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try It's All About Us by Shelley Medina

Posted by Aigua Media on October 24, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, New Releases, Rating: 3/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 14, 2008 10:15 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Maggie Come Lately by Michelle Buckman

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Maggie has struggled for years to make sense of her mother's suicide. She resents the fact that she has had to make up for her mom's absence - doing the cooking, cleaning and other "motherly" tasks. She wonders what it's like to be a normal teenager.

Then her sixteenth birthday arrives. Maggie's birthday wish is that sixteen will be a great year - that she's be pretty and popular and that her brother's best friend (whom she's had a crush on forever) will notice her.

Her birthday ushers in a whole new period in her life, but it's not quite what she expected. Her father gives her a family heirloom as a gift (just the fact that he remembered her birthday is a miracle) and announces that it's time for her to meet the 'special someone' in her life. Then she makes a discovery that will change the course of her life forever.

Maggie Come Lately covers a more serious subject matter than the usual chick lit/YA that I choose. It's a coming-of-age story of a girl who is searching for her place in the world. It's dark at times and yet there is a ribbon of faith that runs through the book and helps to put her struggle in perspective. It's a story of hurt and betrayal, but also one of redemption.

Rating: 4 of 5

Like this? Try Dear Zoe by Philip Beard

Posted by Aigua Media on October 14, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 26, 2008 1:26 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Blessed Are the Meddlers by Christa Ann Banister

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Sydney Alexander is back and happily married to the man of her dreams. Now, if she can just find great guys for her friends life will be perfect. She's already done it once - she set up her hippie neighbor Rain with Stinky Nate. They are happily married now as well, so Sydney is convinced she can make the same magic happen for other friends.

Sydney takes on the challenge of matchmaking for a few of her friends including her boss, Lucinda. As she becomes confident in her set-up abilities, she even takes on the role of "Lucy for the Lovelorn," a syndicated column that could take her career to new heights.

In the midst of it all Samantha, Sydney's sister, is going through a relationship crisis. Well, more like a relationship melt-down. Sydney tries to give her advice, but Samantha soon realizes that she must make the decision for herself - follow her heart and see where it leads.

Sydney's matchmaking talents rival those of another beloved heroine, Jane Austen's Emma. And just as Emma eventually comes to the conclusion that meddling rarely changes things for the better, Sydney must learn some lessons through a few matchmaking disasters.

I thoroughly appreciated Banister's humor and writing style in her first novel, Around The World in 80 Dates, and Meddlers is made up of the same stuff. The story is well-told and filled with compelling characters. Sydney's experiences made me laugh, made me cry and above all reminded me that giving advice is not always as simple as it might seem.

In the back of the book, readers will find a readers guide, Sydney's Recommendations For Life's Little Circumstances and a list of resources for those who want to be a part of promoting music education (as Sydney's husband discusses in the book).

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Around The World in 80 Dates by Christa Ann Banister

[N.B. How similar is the cover of this book to the cover of Christa Ann Banister's first book? - Keris]

Posted by Aigua Media on August 26, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 19, 2008 2:39 PM

BOOK REVIEW: A Mile In My Flip-Flops by Melody Carlson

Reviewed by Jill Hart

I love Melody Carlson's books, so I was tickled pink when I received her newest book, A Mile In My Flip-Flops. the book's main character, Gretchen Hanover, is a charming if somewhat lost thirty-something. She is recovering from a broken heart. Her fiance has run off with an old girlfriend, leaving Gretchen with not only shattered dreams, but an apartment full of stuff - enough to fill the house they would have shared.

Gretchen has moping around for months and consuming more Ben & Jerry's than she ever thought possible. Until one fine day when, while watching her beloved HGTV she has a "light bulb moment." She decides that the way out from under her grief and despair is hard work … like flipping a house.

So, Gretchen sets out on the adventure of a lifetime. Will she end up with a great investment or will her flip be a flop?

This book made me feel as if I were right in the story helping Gretchen flip the house. I, too, watch HGTV and have always wondered if I could do it. Walking through the experience with Gretchen was a blast, but at the end I was glad all the hard work had been hers.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Raising the Roof by Jane Wenham-Jones

Posted by Aigua Media on August 19, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 7, 2008 10:39 AM

BOOK REVIEW: It's All About Us by Shelley Adina

Reviewed by Jill Hart

How far is too far? That's the question that seems to be ever in Lissa Mansfield's mind since moving to San Francisco.

How far will she go to be accepted in the "in crowd?" How far is she willing to go with cute Callum McCloud? How far is she willing to bend to get along with her talkative-opinionated-wacky new roommate, Gillian Chang? And most importantly of all, how far is she willing to push herself to make sure her faith in God is evident in her life?

These questions and more keep Lissa on her toes as she tries to fit into her school life. It doesn't help that she's gotten herself on the planning committee for the Benefactor's Day Ball - the biggest event of the year at Spencer Academy. Can she find a hot celeb to book for the Ball or will she end up disappointing the entire student body?

I don't read a lot of YA (young adult) Lit, but this book so much fun. The characters are charming and right from the beginning I was pulling for Lissa to make the right choices. The best part about this book is that while moms like me (thirty-somethings) will enjoy it, it's also appropriate to be shared with teens and tweens. It would make a great conversations starter for moms and daughters!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Stuck in the Middle by Virginia Smith

Posted by Aigua Media on August 7, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 22, 2008 11:36 AM

Christa Ann Bannister interview

This is a first for Trashi... so it may not work, but let's give it a go. Our regular inspirational fiction (and more) reviewer, Jill Hart, interviewed author Christa Ann Bannister and we have the audio!

Listen now or download to listen at your leisure. And fingers crossed it works! (Thanks, Jill and Christa!)

Posted by Keris on July 22, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Interviews | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 19, 2008 11:58 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Around the World in 80 Dates by Christa Ann Banister

Reviewed by Jill Hart

As a travel writer, you would think Sydney Alexander leads a pretty exciting life. Unfortunately, this is only partially true. While she enjoys her work, has a great relationship with her sister, a hilarious hippie for a neighbor, and a strong relationship with God, she just can't seem to find a decent date.

Sydney's typical dates tend to either be "between jobs" (translated: have no money), "emotionally unavailable" (translated: on the rebound) or "with the band" (translated: too cool to care about anything but their music). She's not sure she'll ever meet a man that will be worth the time she spends getting dressed for the date.

An old flame keeps popping up in unexpected places, making Sydney wonder if breaking things off with him was the right thing to do. A blind date set up by Rain, the hippie neighbor, seems to have potential, but the guy isn't a Christian and Sydney isn't sure she's up for "missionary dating" (her sister's words).

In the midst of Sydney's turmoil, her sister, Samantha is trying to figure out the dating scene as well. Sydney and her family have always thought that Samantha should end up with her closest friend, Eli. Samantha, on the other hand, thinks that would be ... well, weird. Samantha, like Sydney isn't going to give up. There just has to be a good guy out there somewhere...

When Sydney is assigned a dream trip story covering travel tips for London, she's sure it means love. What could be more romantic than meeting a man in Europe?

I loved Christa Ann Banister's light-hearted look at love in the new millennium. Her witty writing reminded   me of other chick-lit writers and yet the plot was original and the characters were laughably funny. Her real life tie-ins cracked me up. From Tivoing The Office to getting java at Caribou Coffee to dinner at P.F. Changs - it could have all been straight out of my own life. No wonder I liked it, right?

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Sisterchicks Go Brit by Robin Jones Gunn

Posted by Aigua Media on June 19, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 15, 2008 1:08 PM

BOOK REVIEW: A Walk With Jane Austen by Lori Smith

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Part history, part armchair travel-guide, and part memoir, A Walk With Jane Austen by Lori Smith put my travel bug in overdrive. Being a big Jane Austen fan, I can easily imagine what it might be like to walk where she once lived. A Walk With Jane Austin gave me a glimpse of the UK from the comfort of my couch (well, LoveSac actually).

When Smith decided to travel to Britain, she was looking for a change of scenery and a chance of pace from her hectic life. Smith heads 'across the pond', and begins her journey in Oxford. She continues on to London, Winchester, Bath and beyond. Throughout the trip, she shares thoughts and feelings straight from her heart.

In Oxford she meets Jack, who she finds intriguing and charming. In London, she visits an old friend and writes about the terrorism that is all over the news these days. In each chapter she shares how she's processing her journey and how her faith is being stretched, expanded and deepened.

Mixed in amongst her experiences, Smith shares the parts of Austen's life that took place in each location. She notes that in Oxford, where her journey began, was also where it's thought that George and Cassandra Austen, Jane's parents, met. In Steventon, Smith discusses that this, or something nearby, is Jane Austen's birthplace. The story intermingles with Austen history and it's a fun walk through time. The book also has a deeper dimension, where Smith shares her inmost thoughts and feelings.

Smith's book began as a blog where she wrote about her experiences. In the preface, she mentions that on the blog she often received questions from readers as to whether the entries were fictional or not. She makes mention that it's very much a work of non-fiction, although having been written after the trip from her extensive journaling, she may have added some additional perspective in hindsight.

Put altogether, the book does read like a novel and knowing that it's not makes it an ever better read in my opinion. I identified with Smith in many ways and found myself wishing I had been traveling along with her. Maybe she'll take another trip and invite me along? Hey, a girl can dream...

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Madonna and Me by Nikki Racklin

Posted by Aigua Media on May 15, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 8, 2008 10:05 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Sisterchicks Go Brit by Robin Jones Gunn

Reviewed by Jill Hart

It's official. I want to be a SisterChick when I grow up. I hope I might be so lucky. Robin Jones Gunn's SisterChick series is centered around the lives of two "midlife mamas", Elizabeth (Liz) and Kellie. The two friends have been through ups and downs together and know each other almost well enough to read the other's thoughts.

Sisterchicks Go Brit, the seventh book in the series, finds Liz and Kellie on their way to see Big Ben. How they end up traveling to the UK is a story in itself, but I'll leave that a mystery because what's best about the book is what's in the middle - the trip itself. The gals visit all of the places I'd like to go if I were cross the pond - the old haunts of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, the sights and sounds of London, shopping at Portabella Road in Knotting Hill. Ahhh, I could envision myself alongside them as they bopped from place to place. (And bop they did.)

Liz and Kellie have quite a journey. They are spectators at a village pancake race, taken on a whirlwind tour of British authors sites, and even end up in a hot air balloon. If that isn't enough, one of them manages to get herself pulled aside for questioning on The Underground.

I've read many of Gunn's other books, but I actually jumped into this series with this book. Even though I didn't have a lot of background on the characters, the book was enjoyable and held it's own. Although these mamas are middle-aged I still related to them and laughed with them along the way. I liked the book enough that I've already gone out and found myself a copy of the first book so that I can start from the beginning and experience life through the eyes of the two hilarious chicks. I almost forgot to mention, Gunn includes a bonus for her fans in the back of the book. She shares pictures and thoughts of her own trip to the UK as well as an excerpt from the Sisterchicks devotional, Take Flight.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try I Heart Bloomberg by Melody Carlson

Posted by Aigua Media on May 8, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 10, 2008 1:19 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Stuck in the Middle by Virginia Smith

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Joan. Boring name for a boring life. Or so Joan believes until she meets her new next door neighbor. The handsome doctor her age make Joan realize that there may be more to life than settling for living at home, getting up every morning to go to an unfulfilling career and wishing she was living her one of her sisters' lives. But, Joan knows she can't make a change because no one would be there to care for her aging grandmother - a job that she has taken upon herself, but truly enjoys. Not to mention, the doctor may be adorable, but he's also a Christian. And Joan's not so sure that's what she needs right now. Her life is comfortable - why complicate it with thoughts of love and religion. Joan's not sure her life can handle either.

Stuck in the Middle is a picture of what life as like middle child. It seems most three daughter families have the smart, 'motherly' older sister; the sweet, carefree younger sister ... and the insecure, people-pleasing middle child. Joan is the epitome of a middle child and yet she's easy to love. I was rooting for her from the very beginning. The two other sisters frustrated me at first, but as the book progresses you learn how much they care about their sister and they endear themselves as well.

Stuck in the Middle is the first book in the Sister-to-Sister Series and Virginia Smith's sixth book. Smith's contemporary fiction is filled with humor as well as meaningful lessons for life. There is one specific section in the book that really made me pause and re-evaluate how I think about my life (I don't want to give it away, but look for the chocolate ice cream story). I love a book that sticks with me. Weeks after I put it down, it still comes to mind and continues to make me think.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Hanging Up by Delia Ephron (non-inspirational)

Posted by Keris on April 10, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 1, 2008 10:27 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear by Sharon Dunn

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Quirky and hilarious – those are the words I’d use to describe Sharon Dunn’s newest release, Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear. The title alone made me chuckle and the book doesn’t disappoint. 

The Bargain Hunter’s Network (BHN) is a group of women that shop together and, naturally, seek out sales and bargain prices. BHN consists of four women: cat loving Ginger, Kindra the college student, Suzanne the mother of four, and Arleta, the senior citizen of the group. 

In Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear, the second book in the Bargain Hunters Mystery series, the group travels to Calamity, Nevada, the site of an invention convention in which Ginger’s husband wants to take part. 

The group arrives in Calamity and from there things go steadily downhill. A mystery ensues and the HBN ends up right in the middle of the action. The result is a hilarious novel that, while at times silly, entertains and gives a nice break from reality which is something I can always use. J

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try Simmer Down by Jessica Conant-Park and Susan Conant

Posted by Keris on February 1, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Inspirational, Rating: 3/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 17, 2008 12:21 PM

BOOK REVIEW: I Heart Bloomberg by Melody Carlson

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Melody Carlson, author of more than 200 books, returns with a new book, I Heart Bloomberg which will be released in April. Set in Portland, Oregon, the book is the first in the 86 Bloomberg Place series. Carlson takes a look into the lives and friendships of four new roommates. As you’ve probably guessed, the girls live at 86 Bloomberg Place. 

Kendall, who received the house as a gift from her grandmother, has decided to take in renters in lieu of getting a job. Who wants to work when you can pay for your shopping sprees by collecting rent?  She sets out to find three roommates, going so far as to ask for resumes in her newspaper ad. 

After Kendall decides upon her new tenants, the fun really begins. Megan, Lelani and Anna each have their own reasons for moving in to Kendall’s house. And once they’ve moved in none of them is sure the arrangement is gong to work. Can they learn to live together or will Kendall’s big plans fall short?

I Heart Bloomberg is a fun read. It focuses on the friendships of the girls and not so much on any romance. I have a feeling the upcoming books will go more into each of the girls’ romantic relationships. Carlson gives a glimpse into each characters life by writing from one girl’s perspective for each chapter. I enjoyed getting the chance to read from each character’s point of view. It was interesting to see the dynamics develop and to see how things affected each girl’s life.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try These Boots Weren't Made for Walking by Melody Carlson (inspirational) or 31 Dream Street by Lisa Jewell (chick lit)

Posted by Keris on January 17, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 10, 2008 11:43 AM

Symphony of Secrets by Sharon Hinck

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Sharon Hinck’s upcoming novel, Symphony of Secrets, takes a turn from any of her other writings. It’s filled with Hinck’s funny, charming writing style, but has a bit of mystery added in. 

Symphony of Secrets is set in the Twin Cities of Minnesota (Minneapolis/St. Paul) and features quite a few references to places that locals will recognize. The novel centers around flutist Amy Johnson, a single mother who dreams of playing with the symphony. Currently a music teacher, Amy longs for the stage and yet has chosen the safer, steady income of a teacher.

When an opening becomes available, Amy decides to take a chance and audition. However, things aren’t as they should be with the symphony. Amy finds she’ll need to find more than her courage to hold her new career possibility – and the symphony itself – together.

Symphony of Secrets will be release February 1st. Mom-lit and music lovers everywhere will want to make sure to grab a copy and prepare to be entertained.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Restorer by Sharon Hinck

Posted by Keris on January 10, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 3, 2008 8:52 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Truffles By the Sea by Julie Carobini

Reviewed by Jill Hart

I liked Julie Carobini’s first novel, Chocolate Beach, but her sophomore release, Truffles By The Sea, greatly surpasses it. I thoroughly enjoyed Carobini’s second book and felt her writing was much stronger throughout. The characters are deeper and yet funnier – a great combination.

Readers met Gaby Flores, in Chocolate Beach, but she takes center stage this time around. The story begins as Gaby moves in to a new apartment (by the sea). She’s had a rough year. She’s lost her apartment in a fire, her business in floundering due to a thieving former employee and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Gaby isn’t sure how much more she can take.

The downward spiral that is Gaby’s life continues when Gaby is faced with a lawsuit. Top that with the aging of her mother and her new “helpful” neighbors and Gaby is ready to throw in the towel. Gaby is determined to make the best of what she has left, but how much will she have to lose before things turn around? Can she ever get her life back together or will she call it quits – in business and in love?

Truffles By The Sea will be released in February 2008. It’s a great read for a cold winter day – you can curl up with the book, a nice fire and pretend you’re the one by the sea.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Chocolate Beach!

Posted by Keris on January 3, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 12, 2007 9:53 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Finding Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn

Reviewed by Jill Hart

It’s snowing here in Nebraska, so I decided it was time to find a great Christmas book to help get myself into the Christmas spirit. Robin Jones Gunn’s novella Finding Father Christmas did just that. 

It’s just a few days before Christmas and Miranda Carson has just arrived in England on a spur of the moment trip. She’s in search of a father she isn’t sure exists and her only clues are a few mementos left from her mother’s belongings. Miranda doesn’t have much to go on, but she knows she’ll regret it if she doesn’t at least attempt to uncover the truth.

When Miranda is befriended by a family that may hold the key to her secrets, she has a difficult decision to make. Should she open up and risk the possibility of forever changing this family she’s grown to love or should she leave and risk never finding the truth?

The book started off a bit slow and I was afraid for a few pages that I wasn’t going to enjoy it. I’m glad I kept reading, though, because only a few chapters in I was hooked. The story is intriguing and the setting is enchanting. And the best part is Gunn has a sequel planned entitled Engaging Father Christmas. So, I know I’ll have a great read for next Christmas, too!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Three Day Rule by Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees

Posted by Keris on December 12, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 1, 2007 11:21 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Rolling by Neta Jackson

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Neta Jackson and the Yada Yadas are at it again. In The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Rolling, Jodi Baxter and the rest of the gang are back for a whole new batch of adventure. A lot has changed since the Yada Yada Prayer Group was formed after being pushed together during a women’s conference a year and half prior. Each Yada has their own struggles, but they come together for support, encouragement and most importantly, prayer.

When a fire destroys the a building that is near and dear to many of them, the Yada Yada’s and the Uptown-New Morning Church step in to aid the residents. When Avis learns that her daughter has contracted a serious disease, the Yada Yada’s rally around her. As Ruth and Ben struggle with their newborn twins, and as Yo-Yo begins to withdraw from the group, they strive to help out in any way possible.

Still, many questions remain. How will Jodi put together an important performance in less than two weeks time? Will the lottery money change Chanda? Will Florida’s son end up in a juvenile detention center? 

Neta Jackson’s Yada Yada books have sold more than 600,000 copies worldwide.

This sixth book in this award-winning series is one of the best yet. Every reader will relate to one (or more) of the Yadas. The characters have a hard to achieve depth, especially if you’ve read the other books in the series and know each character’s background. The book is an exciting read. Every time you turn a page, something new happens.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs

Posted by Keris on November 1, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 25, 2007 7:43 AM

BOOK REVIEW: These Boots Weren’t Made For Walking by Melody Carlson

Reviewed by Jill Hart

The title alone made me want to read this book. While Melody Carlson is known more for her young adult fiction, her entry to the inspirational chick-lit scene is a welcome one. Carlson is a talented writer and These Boots Weren’t Made For Walking is no exception.

Cassidy Cantrell just bought her first pair of designer boots, which she knows will impress everyone. She’s pretty sure they are going to get her the promotion she’s been angling for as well. Little does she know how much her life is about to change. Job problems and boyfriends woes send Cassidy on a search to find herself. She heads home only to find that her normal run-of-the-mill mom has changed, too – and Cassidy’s not sure it’s for the better.

Her desires, such as the boots, reflect the desires of girlie-girls everywhere and make the reader take a closer look at their priorities. At the center of it all is a young woman coming of age. Through Cassidy’s struggles, the reader will learn the value of faith, friendship and fun. 

Melody Carlson weaves a light-hearted, entertaining tale about a young woman trying to find her place in the world. Carlson has written over 90 books ranging from childrens works to teen and adult literature. By the end of the novel I still wanted to head to the mall and yet this novel really made me think about my cravings for shopping and all things materialistic. I consider this book a great balance of insightfulness and humor.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

Posted by Keris on October 25, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 5/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 18, 2007 11:43 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Hazardous Duty by Christy Barritt

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Hazardous Duty will take you places you’ve never been – and you may never want to be. Christy Barritt’s inspirational novel enters the life of a chick with a unique career. Gabby St. Claire is a crime scene cleaner. Her days are filled with grime and blood, but the job takes her one step closer to her goal of becoming a crime scene investigator.

A typical day turns into a nightmare when Gabby uncovers a murder weapon while cleaning. When her best, an only, employee is arrested, Gabby knows she has to help prove him innocent. 

How will Gabby convince the surly detective to take her seriously? And what’s with her new neighbor – is he friend or foe? Gabby must solve this mystery or her life will never be the same.

Christy Barritt is the author of eight books and contributor to a number of magazines and websites. Barritt brings a new twist to chick-lit with her unusual crime scene cleaning heroine. The writing is smart, funny and captivating with a dose of emotion to round it off nicely.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Neat Vodka by Anna Blundy

Posted by Keris on October 18, 2007 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 11, 2007 2:53 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Snitch by Rene Gutteridge

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Rene Gutteridge is one of the most amusing writers in the inspiration chick lit genre. Not only are her plot lines comical, her characters are hilarious as well. Her novel, Snitch, is no exception. Ponder this question: What do you get when you put together an “almost-retired” cop, a former clown, and a know-it-all? 

Answer: A police task force, of course.

Ron Yeager has been working a desk job since being injured a few years prior. When he’s asked to train and lead a special task force, he’s not sure he still has what it takes.

Mackenzie “Mack” Hazard is a clown turned cop who is out to prove herself. Will her outspoken faith deter her from making her way through the ranks? No one, including Mack herself, is sure that she’s ready for this task force. Will she learn the ropes in time or will this be more than she can handle?

And then there’s Jesse Lunden, the cop who’s already seen plenty of task force action. Can he swallow his pride and learn from sergeant Yeager or will his hot head get in the way? 

Snitch is the second book in the Occupational Hazard series. The hilarious cast sets the scene for a novel that has it all – mystery, comedy and even a little romance.  Gutteridge is the author of the Boo series and the Storm series of books as well as a number of other inspirational chick-lit mystery novels and has a light-hearted way of writing that endears the characters to the reader.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try One for the Money by Janet Evanovich

Posted by Keris on October 11, 2007 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Inspirational, Rating: 5/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 4, 2007 11:47 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Restorer's Son by Sharon Hinck

Reviewed by Jill Hart

If you’ve read Hinck’s novel, The Restorer, you’ll know what a powerful, out-of-the-box writer she is.  I’m always on the look out for unique stories and Hinck never lets me down.

Her newest book, the second in the Sword of Lyric series, continues the story of soccer-mom Susan.  In The Restorer, Susan finds herself in an alternate universe.  In The Restorer’s Son, as you might gather from the title, her son, Jake finds himself in the alternate universe his mother has just found her way home from.

The story, however, centers on the newly appointed restorer, Kieran.  Kieran is an outcast who is despised by many on the council.  When Kieran is banished by the council, the hope of the nation hangs in perilous balance. Can Kieran find a way to survive and return to his homeland or has he blown his chance as restorer? And can Susan find her son now that she doesn’t have the powers of a restorer?

Hinck, named the 2007 Writer of the Year at the Mt. Hermon Writer’s Conference, has in some ways created a new genre. Her mom-lit fantasy series, The Sword of Lyric, is refreshing and unique. I generally like the first book in a series more than the second, but Hinck, as always, surpassed my expectations. I read the book in a matter of hours and I became so engrossed with the characters that I couldn’t put it down until I knew how it ended. I love the universe she’s created and can’t wait to visit again when the third book in the series becomes available.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try The Restorer, obviously!

Posted by Keris on October 4, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 5/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 20, 2007 1:54 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Trophy Wives Club by Kristin Billerbeck

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Kristin Billerbeck, who has been credited with being one of the first authors to bring chick-lit to the inspirational market, is back with a brand-new title, The Trophy Wives Club. While the title may make it sound like a book for women who want to snag millionaires (or millionaires who want to snag trophy wives), the book has much more depth to it than that.

So, how can a book about trophy wives deliver any type of inspiration? The key is finding out where the title really comes from. Haley Cutler sets out to do just that. Haley is a typical trophy wife – married to a successful Hollywood producer and used to a lifestyle that includes great clothes, great hair and expensive shoes. The problem? Her Prince Charming has just walked out on her.

After seven years of living a pampered, care-free lifestyle Haley must figure out how to make it on her own. She quickly realizes that she doesn't have many marketable job skills and that the $700 Giuseppe Zanotti's she's drooling over will pay for eleven days in the not-so-high-class motel she's staying in. She also has her husband's lawyer, the remarkably handsome, but incredibly self-righteous, Hamilton Lowe to deal with. What's a girl to do?

Then she hears about a group called "The Trophy Wives Club." This sounds like the perfect place to learn how to make her ex-husband squirm and get the type of settlement she deserves. However, when she attends her first meeting, she's surprised by the attitudes of the other women in the group. They've all been through rough divorces and yet there's something peaceful about them. How can that be?

Billerbeck, author of What a Girl Wants, writes another stand-out novel for inspirational chick-lit fans. The book covers the painful topics of separation, divorce, bitterness and forgiveness. Readers of Billerbeck's popular Ashley Stockingdale series will be pleasantly surprised by this very different, yet very poignant novel.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Truth About Ruby Valentine by Alison Bond

Posted by Keris on September 20, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 6, 2007 11:48 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Catch A Rising Star by Tracey Bateman

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Tabby Brockman is washed up. Well, that is until she learns that there may be a chance of reviving her daytime soap opera role. The thing is, she’s become a Christian and her friends aren’t sure she can withstand the temptations of the celebrity lifestyle. In the midst of her confusion she encounters an annoying wanna-be boyfriend, crazy co-stars, and even family trauma.

Catch a Rising Star is a fun read that captures the reader's attention and keeps you turning pages. Readers will laugh out loud at some of the characters' antics and yet there is a serious side to the story that tugs at the heartstrings.

It’s not often (maybe even never) that you find a Christian fiction novel about a soap star. Most Christians disdain soap operas and yet they are a long-standing part of our culture. The main character struggles to be a light for Christ in a world that mocks her faith. Readers will find Bateman’s treatment of the topic realistic, hilarious and inspiring.

I enjoyed this book thoroughly. I personally do not watch soaps, mostly because as a child I was forced to watch them with my grandmother. It was fun to revisit the world of soaps and to see it through the eyes of a Christian struggling to be a light in the darkness.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Hollywood Car Wash by Lori Culwell

Posted by Keris on September 6, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 30, 2007 9:58 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Restorer by Sharon Hinck

Reviewed by Jill Hart

The Restorer takes us into the life of frustrated soccer mom, Susan Mitchell. It has become a series of hum-drum events and she longs to serve the Lord in a mighty way.

Susan inadvertently stumbles into an alternate universe and a string of adventures like none she has ever dreamt of. The country she finds herself in is in the midst of a turbulent struggle for its own survival. Susan must find a way to survive this foreign world and find a way back home.

Befriended by strangers whom she fears, but is forced to trust, Susan leans on the Lord for strength. But, is God present in this strange place?

Sharon Hinck, the author of the mom-lit Becky Miller books enters a new genre with The Restorer, the first book in The Sword of Lyric series. Hinck blends her traditional mom-lit with fantasy and the end product is a unique blend of genres that is refreshing. Readers will find that The Restorer appeals to a wide range of reading tastes.

One of the most enjoyable elements of fantasy is that you never know what to expect. The Restorer is no different. The story holds you on the edge of your seat and a number of twists keep you reading.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try Miss Invisible by Laura Jensen Walker (Inspirational chick lit)

Posted by Keris on August 30, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 5/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 17, 2007 2:54 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Miss Invisible by Laura Jensen Walker

Reviewed by Jill Hart

In her newest novel Laura Jensen Walker tackles issues such as self-esteem and plus-size status. Walker is the author of four other novels, including Reconstructing Natalie, Women of Faith’s Novel of the Year for 2006.

Here meet Freddie Heinz: professional baker, wedding cake decorator, overweight and completely invisible. At work she is bullied by her boss. At church, her “crush” can’t seem to remember her name. And her personal life is non-existent.

However, when Freddie makes a new friend, Deborah, her life begins to change. Freddie is inspired by this larger-than-life woman who makes big look beautiful. Deborah encourages Freddie to love herself just as she is.

As Freddie begins to build confidence, a certain veterinarian begins to take notice. Then she meets a cute guy during their singles group. Freddie goes from Miss Invisible to a blossoming flower – and she loves her new life. As she gains confidence, you just never know what might happen.

This book was an inspiration to me. As do most women, I struggle with self-esteem at times and I loved that Freddie learned to love herself just as she is. She didn’t lose 60 pounds and become a supermodel. She didn’t have an Extreme Makeover, at least not on the outside. And yet, at the end of the book you can tell what a different person, a better person, she has become.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try Good In Bed by Jennifer Weiner

Posted by Keris on August 17, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 5/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)