Our blog has moved!

Dear loyal LDSWBR follower:

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

You should be automatically redirected in 8 seconds. If not, visit
http://www.ldswomensbookreview.com
and update your bookmarks.

Showing posts with label Countdown to Christmas 2010. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Countdown to Christmas 2010. Show all posts

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!


Wednesday, December 15, 2010

True Miracles With Genealogy by Anne Bradshaw - Countdown to Christmas 2010


10 days until Christmas!



Although born in Wales, Anne Bradshaw grew up in England and now lives in the USA. When not glued to the chair typing, she is reading, walking, pottering in the garden, or enjoying photography. She happy-danced when a feature screenplay (The Ardanea Pendant) she co-authored won first place (fantasy/sci-fi genre) in a recent International Family Film Festival. True Miracles with Genealogy is Anne's sixth published book. It is also available as an eBook for all electronic readers. DINGO, Anne's new teen mystery/suspense is currently selling as an eBook. The print version of DINGO is available at Amazon.com, and in stores such as Barnes & Noble, and Borders.

You can visit Anne on her website, blog, on Facebook and Twitter @AnneBradshaw.


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

ANNE: I've read many superb books this year, but the one that stands out in my mind above the others is The Road Show by a new author, Braden Bell. It's such an honest, refreshing, and tender portrayal of the way so many of us live, that I came away feeling as though the characters were my friends who had taught me well.


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

ANNE: I'm asking for the series by Chris Stewart titled The Great and the Terrible. I've heard excellent comments about these books.


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

ANNE: Sitting around a real fire with my family, reading the story in the Bible that tells of the Savior's birth.


LDSWBR: Eggnog or warm apple cider?

ANNE: Warm apple cider spiced with cinnamon!


LDSWBR: Thank you, Anne. Have a wonderful Christmas!



True Miracles With Genealogy by Anne Bradshaw is available in many LDS bookstores and from Amazon in paperback, ebook/Kindle, and CreateSpace. Also available from Barnes & Noble in paperback and ebook/Nook. European readers can go to UK Amazon for the paperback and ebook editions. Watch the trailer for True Miracles With Genealogy here.


Dingo by Anne Bradshaw is available at Amazon in paperback and ebook/Kindle. Also available at Barnes & Noble in paperback and ebook/Nook. Watch the trailer for Dingo here.




Do you have an indoor fireplace? If so, is it a gas or wood-burning fireplace? Do you use it often during the winter?


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!


Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Growing Up Gracie by Maggie Fechner - Countdown to Christmas 2010


11 days until Christmas!



Maggie Fechner was born and raised in Wyoming. She wrote her first book in First Grade for the Young Author’s program. Maggie received a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and has worked as a reporter for several newspapers. Maggie, her husband, and their four children make their home in Washington State. She enjoys writing and portrait photography.

Visit Maggie on her website & blog: Mommy's Always Write.





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

MAGGIE: Definitely Alicia by Alicia Appleman-Jurman. It is the story of a young girl in Leningrad. It was beautiful and sad and filled with hope at the same time. It is not a new book, but I highly recommend it!


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

MAGGIE: I will be buying lots of children's books for Christmas. This is my favorite gift! Some books I am asking for are the Rhea Jensen series by Sheralyn Pratt, Divinely Designed by Rachael Renee Anderson, and Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet.


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

MAGGIE: Going on a real sleigh ride pulled by horses with my entire family.


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

MAGGIE: Yuck to both! Hot chocolate for sure!


LDSWBR: Good answer. :) Thank you very much, Maggie!




Growing up Gracie by Maggie Fechner (Bonneville; Nov 2010) is available for purchase from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders, Cedar Fort and Deseret Book.




Have you ever been on a real sleigh pulled by horses in the snow? If not, what's the closest you've been to it?


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!