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Happy News - LDSWBR has a new home! Please come visit us, tell us what you think, and let's talk books. Happy reading!

- Shanda, Sheila, Mindy, and Hillary

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Friday, December 31, 2010

Sheila's Top 10 or 20 List for 2010


After I was asked to make a top ten list of my favorite reads of 2010
I floundered a bit. I happily made my goal of reading 100 books in 2010. This also left me in a bind, knowing I had 100 books to choose from. I agree with Mindy, it is like asking who
is your favorite child or friend.

I also have a hard time with only picking 10 so I picked my top 12 and
Then continued with books that I would include in my top 20. I know, I am shamelessly changing the rules here.

These are my picks in no particular order.

1.The Healing Spell by Kimberley Griffiths Little.

To say that this book enchanted me, it is not just a play on words of the title. There truly was something magical about the way
that Kimberley writes. I was pulled into the story from
the beginning and didn’t leave the bayou until the last
page. This book has stayed with me the past month since I
read it. I have remembered the colorful details and rich
characters. I borrowed this book from the library, but this
is one book I will be purchasing for my own collection.




2. Cross My Heart by Julie Wright

This book made me laugh so hard, I loved the main
character and how many strange things happened to her.
(Sadly she reminded me of myself and how "things"
just seem to happen to me while around men.)
I loved her weird mother. The best part was the love
triangle, which was more like a square. This is such a
feel good book. I will be reading it again soon.









3. A Time To Die By Jeff Savage


I waited so long for this sequel in the Shandra Covington
series and I was not disappointed at all. I also feel like it
was the best book yet in the series. This was another book
that I picked up and could not put down. I really
loved the ending!I also loved the fact that
Bobby is not left in perilous circumstances
at the end of this book.






4. Seventh Earth By Richard Bradford

This is such an outstanding sci-fi/fantasy book.
If you are a fan of this genre you MUST read it!
Richard is a great writer and I had a hard
time putting the book down. I can’t wait for
the sequel. It has a great storyline and it
is amazing that this is Richard's first book.
He writes like a Pro!







5. I Am Not A Serial Killer and Mr. Monster By Dan Wells



There is something about these books that are
so compelling. You get sucked in and are hooked until the end.
I really love how you are kept guessing until the very end. In a
strange way, you are cheering for John even if he has a very
wacked out mind.



6. Hotel On The Corner of Bitter and Sweet By Jamie Ford

This book won the Whitney Award in the General
Fiction Category of this past year's Whitney Awards.
It is a story that takes place during WW2 in
California. The main character is a young Chinese
boy who befriends a young Japanese girl. It shows
the turmoil of that time. This story stays with you.
This is a good read for book clubs.









7. Courting Miss Lancaster by Sarah M. Eden

It seems like everyone has loved this book. It is such a sweet
romance that just makes you sigh. Sarah is one of the best
Regency romance writers today. Sarah's newest book was
recently released. It will definitely be on next years reading
list.







8. Becoming Kate By Dixie Owens


I was right in the middle of six other books when I
received this book. I picked it up to read the first
chapter and never put it down until I was done. This
book is so thought provoking. It deals with the idea
of a brain transplant and if feelings and memories
would survive from the donor. It brings up so many
questions in your own mind.

Dixie does a great job of showing one woman's story and
how resolution comes to this character.




9. Blink of An Eye By Gregg Luke


Gregg Luke's books keep me on the edge. This one
did not disappoint. Even though it was slightly
different from his others, he delved more into
his main character and his past. It has a great
mystery that you search for the answer right
along with the main character. I loved this
one a lot!






10. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society By Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows


I just reviewed this book on my personal book review blog.
I explained there why it took so long for me to get this
book read. Once I got over the problem I had, I ended up
really liking this book. Other readers have told me they
had the same problem. They now are going to try reading
this again after I shared my secret. Let's
just say you will not be sorry for taking the time to read
this novel.






11. The Sapphire Flute By Karen Hoover

Excellent debut from first time author Karen Hoover. This
fantasy book has everything. The thing that female readers
will love, is that the main characters are female. But, this is
not just a book for females. There is so much action that
males readers will also like this book. This is
the first book in a long series. I have heard bits and pieces
about the next book and I can't wait to read it.








12. Divine Intervention:A Story of Faith and Miracles by Helen and Randy Hall

If you notice, this is the only non-fiction book that made my
top 10 (12) list. This personal account almost reads like a
novel.It leaves you on the edge of your seat. At the same
time, you left with such gratitude for life and the miracles
that can and do happen. I highly suggest that you read this
book. The Hall's story is one that should be read by everyone.






My Honrable Mentions, that are in my top 20 books:

-Band of Sisters by Annette Lyon
-Crossfire By Traci Hunter Abramson
-The Musician's Daughter By Susanne Dunlap
-Gregor and the Overlander 5 book series By Suzanne Collins
-Lucky Change By Susan Law Corpany
-Hometown Girl By Michelle Ashman Bell
-Heroes of the Fallen By David J. West

The book that I was most disappointed in was... 2010
Mockingjay By Suzanne Collins. I just did not like it. I hated the ending
And how Pres. Snow died.(Sadly I had a much more grisly end planned
for him in my mind) I was left feeling so unsatisfied and cheated by this
third book. What happened to Prim just made me hate the ending even more.
I just remember closing the book and shaking my head. I am doing it right now.
**sigh** Hunger Games is on my all time top 10 list, but Mockingjay
wasn’t even close.

After I read my fellow LDSWBR sisters lists, I realized that there were so
many of their favorites I wanted to read but didn't get to. Next year, you will
probably see some of their favorites on my top 10 list.

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Mindy's Top Ten of 2010

This is going to be like picking my favorite child, but luckily, I read so many books this year that there was some that really stood out. I finished my 100 Books for 2010 Reading Challenge just today!

10. Clockwork Angel - Cassandra Claire
9. Paranormalcy - Kiersten White
8. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society - Mary Ann Shaffer & Ann Barrows
7. Devil's Food Cake - Josi Kilpack
6. Walk Two Moons - Sharon Creech
5. Enchanted, Inc. series - Shanna Swendson
4. Matched - Ally Condie
3. The Help - Kathryn Stockett
2. A Town Like Alice - Noel Shute

Drum role......

1. The Hunger Games series - Suzanne Collins

Some honorable mentions:
The 39 Clues series - Various Authors
The Golden Spiral - Lisa Mangum
My Ridiculous, Romantic Obsessions - Becca Wilhite
The Necromancer - Michael Scott
Princess of Glass - Jessica Day George
Keys to the Demon Prison - Brandon Mull
Peter and the Star Catcher's series - Dave Barry/Ridley Pearson
Gregor the Overlander Series - Suzanne Collins

Happy New Year and Happy Reading!

See this mug? I want it.



See this mug? Yep, this one.
Right here.


I want it.


Especially because I've been promised it will be filled with chocolate yumminess.

If you want a chance to win it, too, then you'd better head over to Sarah M. Eden's blog and find out how to enter. While you're there, watch the fun new book trailer for Sarah's fun new book.

I can't believe I just told all of you about this. Now my odds of winning that mug full of yummies just got worse.

Of course, if this entry is what wins me that mug, well, that's something else, isn't it?


Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Hillary's Top Ten List for 2010

Hello Dear Friends!

Wow, this was a tough order! How to choose JUST ten. I surprised myself when I put this list together, because I only have one non-fiction book on here. Just one!

In no particular order:

In Trying Times, Keep Trying- Merrilee Boyack

It was such a great reminder of how life throws curves at us, and it is up to each of us to remember that the trials are for our own good, and that we need to lean on Christ to get through it all.


My Ridiculous Romantic Obsessions- Becca Wilhite

Not only does this make my top ten list, but it makes my "Favorite's of All Time" List. There was just so much I liked about this book. Sarah was so real. I really empathized with her throughout the book. The romance was just fantastic. My favorite written scene of all time is when they are just outside the library, she can see him, but he can't see her. Perfectly written. Really looking forward to anything else Becca writes!

Devil's Food- Josi Kilpack

I can't get enough of Sadie Hoffmiller. I really liked this one because she met a new love interest that made her even more interesting. The story was fun, fast moving and intriguing. I even made "Evil Chicken" from the book and the hot wings. Both very yummy recipes!


Blink of an Eye- Gregg Luke

This one was sooo fantastic. We recently posted a group review, and he received very favorable reviews. It was so unique. Again! I think that would have to be my word to describe Gregg's work! Unique. Each of his books has an angle that I've never read. Whether it be experimenting on people or getting lost in the jungle with potential Nephite descendants, no matter what I am never bored reading his books!


Crossfire- Tracy Hunter Abramson

Tracy does it again with "Crossfire", a awesome addition to the "Saint Squad". It is just a fantastic read and the love story is perfect- not too much lip locking, not too little. Oh, and a little thing called SERIOUS ACTION thrown in there.


I am not a Serial Killer- Dan Wells

Terrifyingly fabulous. All we are saying is give Dan a chance. Hum it with me...


Courting Miss Lancaster- Sarah M. Eden


Speaking of making "Favorites of All Time" list, this one nabbed a spot as well. I actually bought both this and "My Ridiculous Romantic Obsessions" on the same day. What a great day! I enjoyed "Seeking Persephone" so I was sooo excited when I found out that Sarah had written a story about Harry! He is just so darn likeable! Even if you don't like regency style reading, I think if you enjoy a good romance, you'll like this one!


Backlash- Tracy Hunter Abramson


I was so happy when I was able to read this one. It was such a different take from the other books. Instead of a traditional romance, this one to me tells more of the "after" of the "happily ever after" marriage scenario. Though Marilyn, Kel's wife, is mentioned briefly in the other books, we don't really get to know her, kind of like how the others in the book feel. I really liked this new take. I thought it was very well done. Very real, and somehow still action packed! How do you do it Tracy?

The Hunger Games 1 and 3- Suzanne Collins

I just couldn't add book two. Other than the last two pages. Sorry. I read Mockingjay not long after it came out and was so happy (though somewhat disturbed) with how it all concluded. The story is just so compelling, I don't know how anyone could not enjoy these books. I'm looking forward to seeing the movies! I wonder who will play Katniss...?

Well, that's all folks! With this new location in good old Mizzura, Misery, or Missouri (whichever you prefer, and for me- depends on the day :) ). I will be posting once month, probably somewhere in the middle. Regrettably, I just don't have the access to LDS fiction like I did in Utah. Well, that and I figured you wouldn't want me to review the anti-mormon literature which is far easier to access at the public library than I thought. I was pleased to see Lisa Mangum's books, Brandon Sanderson and some Obert Skye here though. I might even have to read a bit more of the YA/ Fantasy category :)

Later Gators!

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Shanda's Top Ten Reads of 2010


When I suggested to the other ladies of LDSWBR that we use our last posts of the year to list our Top Ten Reads of 2010 it sounded like a lot of fun.

Then it came time for me to choose my top ten. Considering I have read 67 books so far in 2010 (hope to make that 70 by Friday), I don't think I quite realized what I was getting myself into. I've read so many great books this year that it was incredibly difficult to choose. Here are my Top Ten Reads for 2010, in no particular order:



Devil's Food Cake and Key Lime Pie by Josi Kilpack

Okay, technically two books, but they are part of a series, so whatever. What can I say? I absolutely love this series. And the recipes- oh, yum! I'm pretty sure that 2 or 3 of the extra pounds I'm carrying around are from several batches of Sadie's Better Brownies (see Lemon Tart) but they are the best brownies I have ever eaten. Make a batch and see if you can eat just one. Betcha can't. :)







Catholic Roots, Mormon Harvest by Eric Shuster

I don't read a lot of nonfiction, but this book had a significant impact on me. The information is well presented, viewpoints well expressed, and my testimony and knowledge of the gospel were both increased. Eric's next book with coauthor Charles Sale, The Biblical Roots of Mormonism, is high on my to-read list for 2011. If it is anything like his first book, my perspective and testimony will be forever changed.







I Am Not a Serial Killer by Dan Wells

Horror is another genre I don't read often, but if there were more books in the genre like this, I would be reading horror a lot more. IANASK was so different than I expected and just... wow. After finishing it, so many things kept swirling around in my head. I couldn't stop thinking about it. For hours. And hours. I hope to get the sequel, Mr. Monster, read before the end of the year.







Murder by the Book by Betsy Brannon Green

I've been a fan of Betsy and her Haggerty series for years now (since Mark & Kate's kiss at the barbecue- sigh...) Betsy's latest series doesn't take place in Haggerty, but there are several familiar characters that make an occasional appearance. There is something about Kennedy I like- probably her spunk. She does her best to please her mother and the Southern traditions of hospitality and obligation, yet she isn't afraid to rebel a little, too. I'm in the middle of reading the second book in the series, Murder by Design, which I believe has the best first two lines in any mystery-suspense I've ever read-

"The day started out bad and went downhill from there. By the time we discovered the body, I wasn't even surprised."

Now that's a bad day I've just got to read about.



Women of the Book of Mormon: Insights & Inspirations by Heather B. Moore

This was another nonfiction book that gave me a significant change in perspective. It allowed me a glimpse of the women in the history of the scriptures that I never had before. I am able to relate more to these women, and they now feel more like my sisters than I ever would have imagined. The artwork is simply beautiful. My favorite is on page 74 and depicts a mother and her two stripling warrior sons. Women of the Book of Mormon is Heather's first nonfiction book, and comes highly recommended by me to all LDS women.




My Ridiculous, Romantic Obsessions by Becca Wilhite

I love a good romance, though the genre is often plagued by cheesy cliches. I was thrilled to read My Ridiculous, Romantic Obsessions- a good romance with significantly less cheese and cliche than one might find in a typical romance. I really do love this book. I wonder if I have time to read it again before the end of the year...








Blink of an Eye by Gregg Luke

First of all, Gregg is one great guy. He's smart, courteous, and a talented author. Every book he writes gets better and better. In Blink of an Eye, Gregg took a story about a man experiencing flashbacks because of a brain injury and turned it into a suspenseful page-turner, with laugh-out-loud humor sprinkled throughout. If a guy in your life thinks there isn't any good LDS fiction out there for men, send him Gregg Luke's way. He won't be disappointed. And then you can read it when he's done. :)






The Rhea Jensen Series by Sheralyn Pratt

I've only read the first two books in this series (the fourth was just released in the past month or so.) I absolutely loved them. I bought the first book before reading it after meeting Sheralyn at a book signing. I can't wait to get the rest of the series. I love a main character with spunk and that is exactly what Rhea has, as well as a collection of cool PI tools and some awesome fighting skills. When that guy followed her into the... well, I wouldn't want to give anything away. You'll just have to read it for yourself.






The Road Show by Braden Bell

The Road Show is a shorter book (do they call them novellas?) that honestly surprised me a little. I wasn't expecting the characters to grab me so quickly, or to be so relatable. I enjoyed the story, the way everything came together, and how the message of the road show affected each character and ultimately me. A good story that I don't mind recommending to everyone.







Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

I don't read much YA, but after reading the first six chapters online as part of a promotional event, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Paranormalcy. I find myself avoiding a lot of the seemingly "trendy" paranormal young adult fiction that permeates the market these days because they all kind of sound like each other. Paranormalcy, however, is different. There are werewolves and vampires, but not like you would think. There are mermaids and zombies and hags. There are paranormals that I've never heard of. And then there's Tasey, all pink and bling-y, surprising companion to Evie, the main character with- you guessed it- spunk. I loved that Kiersten White was able to tell this fun, teenage-romance story in such an engaging way without cheap or gratuitous content. Nicely done!


If you'd like to see what else I read in 2010, visit me on Goodreads. As far as next year, I've decided to challenge myself to read 150 books. That's more than double the number of books I read this year, or 2.88 books a week. If I can get three books a week read while walking on the treadmill I can accomplish two goals at once, lol.


I can't wait to see what books 2011 will bring!



Monday, December 27, 2010

COUNTDOWN WINNERS!


Winners! Winners! Winners!


LDSWBR would like to give a huge "Thank You!" to all of the authors who donated prizes to and participated in the Countdown to Christmas 2010. You are all incredibly awesome and it is truly an honor to know you!

We hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas with loved ones, lots of fun, and delicious food. The New Year is only a few days away. Have you joined any good reading challenges yet?

Okay, now to the part everyone has been waiting for- the winners! Each name was drawn randomly from a huge tupperware container by me, my hubby and my two oldest daughters. They were as excited as I was to see whose name was going to be drawn.

I drew the winner of the $50 Amazon gift card first, but I'm not going to tell you who it is until the end. Ha! Here we go:


  • Oh, Say Can You See? by Laurie (LC) Lewis - Annette Lyon (for her comment on Stephanie Humphreys' post)
  • Backlash by Traci Hunter Abramson - Julie (for her comment on Lori Nawyn's post)
  • Alma the Younger by Heather (HB) Moore - Elizabeth Morgan (for her comment on Anne Bradshaw's post)
  • True Miracles with Genealogy by Anne Bradshaw - Hummer (Frances Ellsworth) (one of her five entries for blogging about the Countdown!)
  • Dingo by Anne Bradshaw - Chantele Sedgwick (for her comment on Sheralyn Pratt's post)
  • Second Kiss by Natalie Palmer - Elizabeth Morgan (for her comment on Tamara Hart Heiner's post)
  • Cross My Heart by Julie Wright - Judy (for her comment on Anne Bradshaw's post)
  • Cold As Ice by Stephanie Black - Chantele Sedgwick (for her comment on Liz Carlston's post)
  • Meg's Melody by Kaylee Baldwin - Lisa Bennett (one of her five entries for blogging about the Countdown!)
  • Save the Child by Margaret Turley - Krista Jensen (for following LDSWBR on Twitter!)
  • Anasazi Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke - Callets (for tweeting about the Countdown on Dec 12)
  • Mayan Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke - Judy (for her comment on Joan Soward's post)
  • City of Angels by Sheralyn Pratt - Chantele Sedgwick (for her comment on Kristen Landon's post)
  • The Star Prophecy by Joan Sowards - Linda (aka @ponilinda) (for tweeting about the Countdown on Dec 18)
  • The beautiful handmade apron from Joan Sowards - Lisa Bennett (one of her five entries for blogging about the Countdown!)


And finally, the winner of the $50 Amazon gift card is.....
Krista Jensen!!!!!!


Congratulations to Krista and all of our Countdown to Christmas winners!

If you are a winner in the Countdown to Christmas 2010 contest, send an email to ldswbr(at)gmail(dot)com to claim your prize. I will do my best to contact you if I haven't heard from you in the next few days. After a week or so, if I haven't been able to reach a prize winner, I will draw a new name for the prize.

Thank you to all of our blog readers. We hope you enjoyed the Countdown to Christmas. As always, we love to hear from you, so feel free to leave us comments or email us anytime.

LDSWBR hopes you had a wonderful 2010 and wishes you all the best in 2011!


Monday, December 20, 2010

The Rhea Jensen Series by Sheralyn Pratt - Countdown to Christmas 2010


5 days until Christmas!
(So I'm a little late with this post & there's really only 4 days left but I'm going to change the post date & let's all just pretend it's yesterday, mkay?)


Sheralyn was born at an early age, with 10 fingers and 10 toes. She is proud to report that she currently retains all 20 digits. In the past Sheralyn has been a karate instructor, musical theater performer, a beach bum, freelance writer, nomadic traveler, and, yes, a private investigator. At the moment she enjoys working with and training her dog to give the poor thing breaks from sitting and Sheralyn's feet with the unbearable task of watching someone write a book.

Really, and you thought your job was bad!

Sheralyn currently resides in Salt Lake City, Utah, although as people who know her can attest to, that is subject to change at any time ;)

Visit with Sheralyn on her website, blog and on Twitter @SheralynPratt.


LDSWBR: What author/book had the most impact on you this year?

SHERALYN: Such an excellent question. Sure wish I had a definitive answer. Different books impacted me in different ways this year. One book I really remember includes Infinite Days. The vividness of the first chapters were a huge reminder to me that writing can cover all the senses. An LDS title I'm liking right now is Second Comforter by Denver Snuffer. Nonfiction is really where it's at for me in 2010. This past year I haven't gravitated to fiction like years past, so the books that are on my radar are things like Second Comforter and Save the Cat (screenwriting book).


LDSWBR: What books are you giving/asking for this Christmas?

SHERALYN: Shhhh. Don't tell, but I'm giving gift cards to a book store. I'm going to let people choose. If I chose for them, however, I would likely get my neices and nephews the Percy Jackson series, Maximum Ride, Warriors, or some series like that. They're 12 and under, so I'd be focusing on fun, light juvenile adventures.


LDSWBR: If you could only participate in one Holiday activity or tradition this year, what would it be?

SHERALYN: I'd say getting together with all my family on Christmas Eve. My mom's German, so Christmas Eve has always been a bigger deal with us than Christmas Day.


LDSWBR: And one more just for fun- eggnog or warm apple cider?

SHERALYN: Eggnog. Almost always.


LDSWBR: Thank you, Sheralyn. Merry Christmas!



City of Angels, Welcome to Stalk Lake City, City Limits and Kay'sVille by Sheralyn Pratt (Cedar Fort; 2010) are available for purchase at all major sites/retailers (some in stock, some special order).





Is Christmas Eve a bigger day than Christmas Day in your house? Or does most of the celebration and gathering of family take place on Christmas Day? Do any of you have family Christmas parties AFTER Christmas?


Find more gift ideas for the readers in your life in the sidebar of the blog under "More Great Books by LDS Authors."


***Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest***


LDSWBR will hold a drawing on December 26, 2010 for a $50 Amazon Gift Card, as well as a variety of books being offered by some great LDS authors.


Book prizes generously donated by the authors:

  • Oh, Say Can You See? by Laurie (LC) Lewis
  • Backlash by Traci Hunter Abramson
  • Alma the Younger by Heather (HB) Moore
  • True Miracles with Genealogy by Anne Bradshaw
  • Dingo by Anne Bradshaw
  • Second Kiss by Natalie Palmer
  • Cross My Heart by Julie Wright
  • Cold As Ice by Stephanie Black
  • Meg's Melody by Kaylee Baldwin
  • Save the Child by Margaret Turley
  • Anasazi Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • Mayan Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • City of Angels by Sheralyn Pratt
  • The Star Prophecy by Joan Sowards (and Walnut Springs Press)
  • A cute, handmade apron by Joan Sowards

How to enter:

  • Post a thoughtful comment on the Countdown to Christmas 2010 posts. Comments can be added on any of the countdown posts at anytime during the contest period (December 1, 2010 through December 25, 2010). Only one comment per person per "Countdown to Christmas" post will be entered into the drawing. Feel free to comment more than once per post if you'd like, but only one comment will be accepted as an entry.
  • Follow us on Twitter: @LDSWBR - then send us a direct message to let us know you want to be entered in the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you are already a follower send a direct message telling us you want to be included in the contest.
  • Tweet this message each day (one entry per day). Just copy and paste into your twitter message window to send it (LDSWBR must be able to see the tweet): LDSWBR Countdown to Christmas 2010 at http://ldswbr.blogspot.com! Enter to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card & great books! @ldswbr
  • Follow LDSWBR on Facebook, then send an email to ldswbr at gmail dot com that you’d like to be entered into the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you already follow LDSWBR on Facebook, send us an email to let us know you’d like to be included in the contest.
  • **BONUS +5 entries**- Blog about this contest on your blog in a post that includes a link back to the LDSWBR blog, then send us the link to your specific blog post.

Here are the rules:
  • Contest ends at 12:00 Midnight MST on December 25, 2010. Drawing winners will have until 12:00 Midnight MST on January 3, 2010 to claim their prize. After that time, another name will be drawn to receive the prize.
  • LDSWBR reserves the right to decide what determines a "thoughtful" comment.
  • Physical book prizes can only be shipped within the contiguous United States.
  • Authors taking part in the countdown are eligible to participate in the contest.
  • The drawing held on December 26, 2010 will be a raffle-type drawing. All entries will be combined and names drawn for the prizes.

Please join us in counting down to Christmas with some great reads!


Sunday, December 19, 2010

The Christmas Stone by Liz Carlston - Countdown to Christmas 2010



6 days until Christmas!


I'd like to tell you about a little book I just read. The Christmas Stone by Liz Carlston (author of Surviving Columbine) is a quick read at 88 pages, though Liz manages to pack a lot of story into those pages.

The Christmas Stone is the perfect size for gift giving, and by purchasing it as a gift you are actually giving twice, as Liz has agreed to donate all author proceeds from The Christmas Stone to Primary Children's Medical Center.

Because it is basically a short story, there isn't a lot of time for character development and history-building, so Liz trusts the reader's intelligence to fill in the rest and dives right into the story, though she does include a couple of flashbacks so the reader can understand the characters' history a little better.

She even manages to work a little romance in there. (Don't worry guys and gals who don't care for romance- it's nothing mushy or detailed).


Liz Carlston is a national speaker and author. She served a mission in the Oakland, California Temple Visitors Center, Spanish-speaking. Liz has been seen on CNN, ESPN, CBS Early Show, and Good Morning America in conjunction with her book, Surviving Columbine. Most recently, she has written articles for The Daily Utah Chronicle and New Era Magazine. Liz has been spotlighted in the New York Times bestselling books Columbine by Dave Cullen (p. 38-39, pb) and Fablehaven: Grip of the Shadow Plague (p.417-418 , 446, 454, tc) by Brandon
Mull. Liz is from Littleton, Colorado, but has also lived in Oakland and Palo Alto California. She currently resides in Salt Lake City, Utah.

You can learn more about Liz on her website/blog, on Facebook and Twitter @lcarlston_CSton. View the trailer for The Christmas Stone here.


LDSWBR: What author/book had the most impact on you this year?

LIZ: I really enjoyed the memoir, It’s Good to Be Alive: Observations from a Wheelchair by Jack Rushton. Despite being paralyzed from the neck down for the past 21 years, he is one of the most optimistic people I know. I appreciate his wit, wisdom and commitment to live with faith in the Savior. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3HnUfqCBfc)


LDSWBR: What books are you giving/asking for this Christmas?

LIZ: Of course I’ve given several copies of The Christmas Stone away as gifts this year (why not right? :) ). The other book I’ve been giving away is The Fourth Gift by Tucker Davis. This is a heart-warming story about a little Sheppard boy who became friends with Joseph and Mary. He wanted to give the baby Jesus a hand-carved wooden lamb. His attempt didn’t turn out too well, so he gave the Savior an even better gift. I appreciate the idea that while life doesn’t always go according to plan, we can still offer our very best to the Lord.


LDSWBR: If you could only participate in one Christmas activity or tradition this year, what would it be?

LIZ: I always look forward to watching “The Nativity” on Christmas day. It’s a great time of year to touch base with family, to think of others, and most importantly, to remember the Lord’s hand in our lives.


LDSWBR: Do you prefer eggnog or warm apple cider?

LIZ: I’d have to go with the eggnog, but just because I’m a warm apple cider drinker during the rest of the year.


LDSWBR: Liz, thank you so much. Have a Merry Christmas!




The Christmas Stone by Liz Carlston (Cedar Fort; Sept 2010) is available for purchase from Barnes & Noble, Borders, Amazon, Mardel and Seagull Book.




Have you or your family and friends ever had need of the services provided by Primary Children's Medical Center? Have you had the opportunity to donate to Primary Children's Medical Center in the past?


Find more gift ideas for the readers in your life in the sidebar of the blog under "More Great Books by LDS Authors."


***Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest***


LDSWBR will hold a drawing on December 26, 2010 for a $50 Amazon Gift Card, as well as a variety of books being offered by some great LDS authors.


Book prizes generously donated by the authors:

  • Oh, Say Can You See? by Laurie (LC) Lewis
  • Backlash by Traci Hunter Abramson
  • Alma the Younger by Heather (HB) Moore
  • True Miracles with Genealogy by Anne Bradshaw
  • Dingo by Anne Bradshaw
  • Second Kiss by Natalie Palmer
  • Cross My Heart by Julie Wright
  • Cold As Ice by Stephanie Black
  • Meg's Melody by Kaylee Baldwin
  • Save the Child by Margaret Turley
  • Anasazi Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • Mayan Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • The Star Prophecy by Joan Sowards (and Walnut Springs Press)
  • A cute, handmade apron by Joan Sowards

How to enter:

  • Post a thoughtful comment on the Countdown to Christmas 2010 posts. Comments can be added on any of the countdown posts at anytime during the contest period (December 1, 2010 through December 25, 2010). Only one comment per person per "Countdown to Christmas" post will be entered into the drawing. Feel free to comment more than once per post if you'd like, but only one comment will be accepted as an entry.
  • Follow us on Twitter: @LDSWBR - then send us a direct message to let us know you want to be entered in the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you are already a follower send a direct message telling us you want to be included in the contest.
  • Tweet this message each day (one entry per day). Just copy and paste into your twitter message window to send it (LDSWBR must be able to see the tweet): LDSWBR Countdown to Christmas 2010 at http://ldswbr.blogspot.com! Enter to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card & great books! @ldswbr
  • Follow LDSWBR on Facebook, then send an email to ldswbr at gmail dot com that you’d like to be entered into the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you already follow LDSWBR on Facebook, send us an email to let us know you’d like to be included in the contest.
  • **BONUS +5 entries**- Blog about this contest on your blog in a post that includes a link back to the LDSWBR blog, then send us the link to your specific blog post.

Here are the rules:
  • Contest ends at 12:00 Midnight MST on December 25, 2010. Drawing winners will have until 12:00 Midnight MST on January 3, 2010 to claim their prize. After that time, another name will be drawn to receive the prize.
  • LDSWBR reserves the right to decide what determines a "thoughtful" comment.
  • Physical book prizes can only be shipped within the contiguous United States.
  • Authors taking part in the countdown are eligible to participate in the contest.
  • The drawing held on December 26, 2010 will be a raffle-type drawing. All entries will be combined and names drawn for the prizes.

Please join us in counting down to Christmas with some great reads!


Saturday, December 18, 2010

Lolly's Yarn by Anna Arnett - Countdown to Christmas 2010


7 days until Christmas!



Lolly's Yarn is Anna Arnett's first novel. You can learn more about Anna on her website & blog: Yarns from "Lolly."










LDSWBR: What author/book had the most impact on you this year?

ANNA: Other than the scriptures, "most impact' is a tough decision. I think I'll go with Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, a book I have limited myself to reading only once a year for the last fifty plus years. I still find it fresh and interesting, and a great example. I absolutely love her irony.


LDSWBR: What books are you giving/asking for this Christmas?

ANNA: I'm giving Lolly's Yarn, of course. I asked for Main Street by Sinclair Lewis, and/or Catch Twenty-Two or Women Wariors (or is it the other way around?)


LDSWBR: If you could only participate in one Holiday activity or tradition this year, what would it be?

ANNA: Christmas. But I like all the other ones, too.


LDSWBR: Which do you prefer - eggnog or warm apple cider?

ANNA: Eggnog, if it's made fresh at home.


LDSWBR: Thank you and Merry Christmas, Anna!



Lolly's Yarn by Anna Arnett (Two Dogs Publishing; October 2010) is available for purchase on Anna's website through Amazon.




Are you a Pride and Prejudice fan? Have you read the book? How about any of the movie versions? Which ones have you seen and what did you think of them versus the book?


Find more gift ideas for the readers in your life in the sidebar of the blog under "More Great Books by LDS Authors."


***Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest***


LDSWBR will hold a drawing on December 26, 2010 for a $50 Amazon Gift Card, as well as a variety of books being offered by some great LDS authors.


Book prizes generously donated by the authors:

  • Oh, Say Can You See? by Laurie (LC) Lewis
  • Backlash by Traci Hunter Abramson
  • Alma the Younger by Heather (HB) Moore
  • True Miracles with Genealogy by Anne Bradshaw
  • Dingo by Anne Bradshaw
  • Second Kiss by Natalie Palmer
  • Cross My Heart by Julie Wright
  • Cold As Ice by Stephanie Black
  • Meg's Melody by Kaylee Baldwin
  • Save the Child by Margaret Turley
  • Anasazi Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • Mayan Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • The Star Prophecy by Joan Sowards (and Walnut Springs Press)
  • A cute, handmade apron by Joan Sowards

How to enter:

  • Post a thoughtful comment on the Countdown to Christmas 2010 posts. Comments can be added on any of the countdown posts at anytime during the contest period (December 1, 2010 through December 25, 2010). Only one comment per person per "Countdown to Christmas" post will be entered into the drawing. Feel free to comment more than once per post if you'd like, but only one comment will be accepted as an entry.
  • Follow us on Twitter: @LDSWBR - then send us a direct message to let us know you want to be entered in the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you are already a follower send a direct message telling us you want to be included in the contest.
  • Tweet this message each day (one entry per day). Just copy and paste into your twitter message window to send it (LDSWBR must be able to see the tweet): LDSWBR Countdown to Christmas 2010 at http://ldswbr.blogspot.com! Enter to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card & great books! @ldswbr
  • Follow LDSWBR on Facebook, then send an email to ldswbr at gmail dot com that you’d like to be entered into the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you already follow LDSWBR on Facebook, send us an email to let us know you’d like to be included in the contest.
  • **BONUS +5 entries**- Blog about this contest on your blog in a post that includes a link back to the LDSWBR blog, then send us the link to your specific blog post.

Here are the rules:
  • Contest ends at 12:00 Midnight MST on December 25, 2010. Drawing winners will have until 12:00 Midnight MST on January 3, 2010 to claim their prize. After that time, another name will be drawn to receive the prize.
  • LDSWBR reserves the right to decide what determines a "thoughtful" comment.
  • Physical book prizes can only be shipped within the contiguous United States.
  • Authors taking part in the countdown are eligible to participate in the contest.
  • The drawing held on December 26, 2010 will be a raffle-type drawing. All entries will be combined and names drawn for the prizes.

Please join us in counting down to Christmas with some great reads!


Friday, December 17, 2010

Mayan Intrigue by Linda Weaver Clarke - Countdown to Christmas 2010


8 days until Christmas!



Linda Weaver Clarke travels throughout the United States, teaching a “Family Legacy Workshop,” encouraging people to write their family history and autobiography. She is the author of the historical romance series, “A Family Saga in Bear Lake, Idaho,” which includes: Melinda and the Wild West - a semi-finalist for the “Reviewers Choice Award 2007,” and a new mystery series, “The Adventures of John and Julia Evans.”

Visit with Linda on her website, blog, on Facebook and Twitter @LindaWClarke.



LDSWBR: What author/book had the most impact on you this year?

LINDA: Old Testament, because my husband and I were asked to teach the Gospel Doctrine class for this year and I really didn't know that much about the Old Testament. I knew the stories but not scriptural references. I have learned a lot.


LDSWBR: What books are you giving/asking for this Christmas?

LINDA: I am giving my daughter two books: 1. Kathy Oram Peterson's The Stone Traveler 2. The last book in the Tennis Shoes series.


LDSWBR: If you could only participate in one Holiday activity or tradition this year, what would it be?

LINDA: Walking around the temple and seeing all the beautiful lights and nativity.


LDSWBR: Do you prefer eggnog or warm apple cider?

LINDA: Warm apple cider!!!


LDSWBR: Linda, thank you so much. Merry Christmas!



Mayan Intrigue: The Adventures of John and Julia Evans by Linda Weaver Clarke (American Book Publishing; August 2010) is available for purchase at Amazon and Publisher Direct.



Have you ever read the Old Testament all the way through? Do you have any favorite stories or scriptures in the Old Testament?


Find more gift ideas for the readers in your life in the sidebar of the blog under "More Great Books by LDS Authors."


***Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest***


LDSWBR will hold a drawing on December 26, 2010 for a $50 Amazon Gift Card, as well as a variety of books being offered by some great LDS authors.


Book prizes generously donated by the authors:

  • Oh, Say Can You See? by Laurie (LC) Lewis
  • Backlash by Traci Hunter Abramson
  • Alma the Younger by Heather (HB) Moore
  • True Miracles with Genealogy by Anne Bradshaw
  • Dingo by Anne Bradshaw
  • Second Kiss by Natalie Palmer
  • Cross My Heart by Julie Wright
  • Cold As Ice by Stephanie Black
  • Meg's Melody by Kaylee Baldwin
  • Save the Child by Margaret Turley
  • Anasazi Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • Mayan Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • The Star Prophecy by Joan Sowards (and Walnut Springs Press)
  • A cute, handmade apron by Joan Sowards

How to enter:

  • Post a thoughtful comment on the Countdown to Christmas 2010 posts. Comments can be added on any of the countdown posts at anytime during the contest period (December 1, 2010 through December 25, 2010). Only one comment per person per "Countdown to Christmas" post will be entered into the drawing. Feel free to comment more than once per post if you'd like, but only one comment will be accepted as an entry.
  • Follow us on Twitter: @LDSWBR - then send us a direct message to let us know you want to be entered in the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you are already a follower send a direct message telling us you want to be included in the contest.
  • Tweet this message each day (one entry per day). Just copy and paste into your twitter message window to send it (LDSWBR must be able to see the tweet): LDSWBR Countdown to Christmas 2010 at http://ldswbr.blogspot.com! Enter to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card & great books! @ldswbr
  • Follow LDSWBR on Facebook, then send an email to ldswbr at gmail dot com that you’d like to be entered into the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you already follow LDSWBR on Facebook, send us an email to let us know you’d like to be included in the contest.
  • **BONUS +5 entries**- Blog about this contest on your blog in a post that includes a link back to the LDSWBR blog, then send us the link to your specific blog post.

Here are the rules:
  • Contest ends at 12:00 Midnight MST on December 25, 2010. Drawing winners will have until 12:00 Midnight MST on January 3, 2010 to claim their prize. After that time, another name will be drawn to receive the prize.
  • LDSWBR reserves the right to decide what determines a "thoughtful" comment.
  • Physical book prizes can only be shipped within the contiguous United States.
  • Authors taking part in the countdown are eligible to participate in the contest.
  • The drawing held on December 26, 2010 will be a raffle-type drawing. All entries will be combined and names drawn for the prizes.

Please join us in counting down to Christmas with some great reads!


Thursday, December 16, 2010

The Limit by Kristen Landon - Countdown to Christmas 2010


9 days until Christmas!



Kristen Landon writes exciting and intriguing books for children and young adults from her home in Highland, Utah, surrounded by the beautiful Wasatch Mountains. She enjoys hiking, kayaking and picnicking in nearby mountain canyons with her husband and four children. She can often be found reading—or writing—a good book.

Visit Kristen on her website, blog, and on Facebook.





LDSWBR: What author/book had the most impact on you this year?

KRISTEN: Uprising by Margaret Peterson Haddix. I love this author--and not just because she gave me a great blurb for The Limit. I'm usually more of a mystery/suspense/dystopian/romance reader, but this historical fiction book won me over with the story of three girls who were involved in the Triangle shirtwaist factory fire.


LDSWBR: What books are you giving/asking for this Christmas?

KRISTEN: Matched by Ally Condie--My fourteen year old niece is going to love it.

My twelve year old son is getting one of the Mysterious Benedict Society books, he just recently became addicted to this series.

My nephew is getting Snowmen at Night by Caralyn and Mark Buehner--this is such a great picture book


LDSWBR: If you could only participate in one Holiday activity or tradition this year, what would it be?

KRISTEN: Our extended family Christmas Pagent. It's an original musical production performed by the cousins with such songs as 'The Shepherd Dance' and 'The Wiseman Rap'. It gets bigger and better each year. An addition this year is something from the Book of Mormon. My son says he's cast as Nephi, but he's not sure which one. It could be 1st Nephi or 3rd Nephi as best as we can guess. We'll find out on Christmas Eve when Zach, our director/choreographer/composer, will let him know!


LDSWBR: And one more just for fun- eggnog or warm apple cider?

KRISTEN: Eggnog--no question. But I buy the light variety to try to save a few calories.


LDSWBR: Thank you, Kristen. Merry Christmas!



The Limit by Kristen Landon (Aladdin; Sept 2010) is available for purchase in most major bookstores and online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Borders.



What Christmas pageants or productions are you and/or your family ever been involved in? Have you attend any Christmas pageants or theater productions?


Find more gift ideas for the readers in your life in the sidebar of the blog under "More Great Books by LDS Authors."


***Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest***


LDSWBR will hold a drawing on December 26, 2010 for a $50 Amazon Gift Card, as well as a variety of books being offered by some great LDS authors.


Book prizes generously donated by the authors:

  • Oh, Say Can You See? by Laurie (LC) Lewis
  • Backlash by Traci Hunter Abramson
  • Alma the Younger by Heather (HB) Moore
  • True Miracles with Genealogy by Anne Bradshaw
  • Dingo by Anne Bradshaw
  • Second Kiss by Natalie Palmer
  • Cross My Heart by Julie Wright
  • Cold As Ice by Stephanie Black
  • Meg's Melody by Kaylee Baldwin
  • Save the Child by Margaret Turley
  • Anasazi Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • Mayan Intrigue (ebook) by Linda Weaver Clarke
  • The Star Prophecy by Joan Sowards (and Walnut Springs Press)
  • A cute, handmade apron by Joan Sowards

How to enter:

  • Post a thoughtful comment on the Countdown to Christmas 2010 posts. Comments can be added on any of the countdown posts at anytime during the contest period (December 1, 2010 through December 25, 2010). Only one comment per person per "Countdown to Christmas" post will be entered into the drawing. Feel free to comment more than once per post if you'd like, but only one comment will be accepted as an entry.
  • Follow us on Twitter: @LDSWBR - then send us a direct message to let us know you want to be entered in the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you are already a follower send a direct message telling us you want to be included in the contest.
  • Tweet this message each day (one entry per day). Just copy and paste into your twitter message window to send it (LDSWBR must be able to see the tweet): LDSWBR Countdown to Christmas 2010 at http://ldswbr.blogspot.com! Enter to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card & great books! @ldswbr
  • Follow LDSWBR on Facebook, then send an email to ldswbr at gmail dot com that you’d like to be entered into the Countdown to Christmas 2010 Contest. If you already follow LDSWBR on Facebook, send us an email to let us know you’d like to be included in the contest.
  • **BONUS +5 entries**- Blog about this contest on your blog in a post that includes a link back to the LDSWBR blog, then send us the link to your specific blog post.

Here are the rules:
  • Contest ends at 12:00 Midnight MST on December 25, 2010. Drawing winners will have until 12:00 Midnight MST on January 3, 2010 to claim their prize. After that time, another name will be drawn to receive the prize.
  • LDSWBR reserves the right to decide what determines a "thoughtful" comment.
  • Physical book prizes can only be shipped within the contiguous United States.
  • Authors taking part in the countdown are eligible to participate in the contest.
  • The drawing held on December 26, 2010 will be a raffle-type drawing. All entries will be combined and names drawn for the prizes.

Please join us in counting down to Christmas with some great reads!