We are dedicated to searching out and sharing the best in LDS, Christian, and other good literature. Here you will find meaningful fiction that doesn't ask you to sacrifice your standards.
"Clothilde." He spoke her name on a breath like a prayer. Then he lowered his head and kissed her.
What a perfect scene! It truly belongs in a romance novel. The only problem is, the women being kissed is not Clothilde, her name is Siriol De Calendri. Triston, the hero in the novel, is still full of guilt because of the death of his late wife, Clothilde. Siri greatly resembles Triston's late wife, but is very different from her in personality and spirit. This is where the Historical novel begins. Can Siri win Triston's heart and help him heal from the past? Will Triston be able to keep Siri safe from the many enemies that threaten he and Siri's future together? You will need to read "Illuminations of the Heart" to have these questions answered.
I enjoy reading Joyce DiPastena's books. They are known for being "clean" romances. Now days, the idea of a clean romance is a very rare thing. This is not to say that you won't be swept away in the growing romance between Triston and Siri and the heat felt between them. They are clearly attracted to each other and their shared kisses made me yearn for a "Triston" in my life. You can safely read this book, as well as your teen-age daughter, and know that no sex will be spattered throughout the pages.
As for historical fiction lovers, this book will greatly appeal to you. Joyce does incredible research into this time period. I always feel like I learn new things when I read one of Joyce's books. She has a "Glossary of Medieval Terms" at the back of the book. For example, do you know what "Crenellated" means? What does "Fealty" mean? Do you know what a "Hauberk" is? I found this Glossary very helpful as I read the book.
This sweet romance from Joyce is 425 pages long. It is well worth your time to read it. Hide away in a room, pull out the chocolate or popcorn, get comfortable and escape to the medieval times. I enjoyed getting lost in the romance and suspense that is interwoven in "Illuminations of the Heart."
If you would like to win your own copy of this new novel here are a few ways to enter: -Look up one of the meanings to one of the medieval words I mentioned in this blog post. Tell me the definition to the word/s and that will count as one entry.
-Post a comment telling me what is your favorite kind of Romance novel. What era appeals to you the most. This will be another entry for you.
-The third thing you can do, is to become a follower of one of my blogs, here atLDS Women's Book Reviewat"Why Not Because I Said So" and it will count as two entries. One winner will be chosen from entries posted at both blogs. So start posting to win your own copy of this wonderful romance. You have one week to enter the contest. It will end next Monday night, Sept. 21st and the winner will be announced the next day.
During the "Recent Reads" section of LDSWBR Podcast Episode #36, I shared a review of Rachel Ann Nunes' latest novel, Saving Madeline, due to be released mid-September. If you don't currently have plans to visit a book store before the end of September I highly suggest you make some plans and add Saving Madeline to the top of your list. Rachel addresses a tough issue that most people aren't fully aware of- or at least I wasn't until reading her book. Parker has a tough decision to make: continue to allow his daughter, Madeline, to remain with her drug-using mother or do something to protect her from Dakota's negligence. Parker makes his decision and must face the consequences of his actions, unless proof of Dakota's drug abuse & negligence can be found. Caitlin McLoughlin has become tired of defending petty criminals she knows are guilty, but the rare opportunities of helping someone who is truly innocent keep her from leaving her job. That, and her obligation to her special-needs sister, Amy. When she considers taking Parker's case as a favor to a friend, Caitlin quickly learns that while he is technically guilty of the crimes he is accused of, the reasons behind it are valid- if only they could find the evidence they're looking for. Caitlin begins to love little Madeline, and her feelings for Parker start to grow as well.
Rachel has done an excellent job of writing about difficult choices, troubled circumstances, and situations that blur the line between the black & white of the law. The chemistry between Caitlin and Parker is touching and romantic. Rachel haswritten believable, endearing characters- not just the hero & heroine, but minor characters as well- who are comfortable and natural within the setting of the story.
Saving Madeline gets 5 stars and a Whitney nomination from me. Well done, Rachel!
Sheila, Hillary & I were thrilled to have authors Josi Kilpack & Michele Paige Holmes join us once again on the podcast! These beautiful and talented ladies are always fun to talk with and Episode 36 was no exception.
Josi's latest novel, English Trifle, is the sequel to her very successful book, Lemon Tart. During the podcast, Josi spoke about the next book in her culinary mystery series, Devil's Food Cake, as well as giving us a glimpse into the future of the series. Josi's writing style for her mysteries is fun and unique- she let us know that even she doesn't know the culprit until she writes the end- and if the story keeps the author guessing until the end, it's definitely going to keep the reader guessing, too! English Trifle takes place in a castle in England as Sadie and her daughter visit Breanna's fiance, Liam, over the Christmas break. While taking a "turn about the room" on the last day of their visit, Sadie & Breanna make a gruesome discovery- a man, run through with a fireplace poker & pinned to the wall behind a curtain. When the body disappears and the people of the house start doubting Sadie & Breanna, Sadie's determined to prove they aren't making up what they saw. What follows is an adventure where everyone has something to hide and Sadie is determined to uncover the truth. English Trifle is a fast-moving, thoroughly delicious mystery and just like any good dessert, you'll savor every bite!
Sheila reviewed Michele Paige Holmes' All the Stars in Heaven a few posts ago (go check it out), however, I wanted to add my thoughts to hers. Michele has a powerful way of making the reader invested in the story she writes, caring about and rooting for the "good guys" as well as evoking strong feelings toward the "bad guys." She can even help the reader feel a certain amount of sympathy for the "bad guy" without lessening the incorrectness of the choices he made. All the Stars in Heaven is ultimately a romance, with some good mystery-suspense as well. It's a moving story of growth & change, contrasts and unexpected commonalities, courage and forgiveness. Michele is currently working on her third book in the Stars series called My Lucky Stars. Michele calls it a romantic comedy. She told us a little about the premise of My Lucky Stars during the podcast and it sounds like a lot of fun!
Thanks again, Josi & Michele, for taking the time to come visit with us and for entertaining us with your wonderful stories!
On one final note, for all of the DOROTHY KEDDINGTON fans out there, Dorothy let me know that her new manuscript, The Fairy Thorn, has been accepted and is scheduled for an October release through Granite Publishing. All of you who have been leaving comments and waiting and wondering- the wait is over!! There is even talk of re-releasing her older novels as well! As soon as I know more I will post updates on the blog, so check back often. Congratulations, Dorothy!
I am finally on the blog. It has only taken 500 invitations from Shanda, her hubby helping me set up the account crap and come to find out, the hardest part is trying to figure out what to type. Go figure.
"All the Stars in Heaven" is Michele Paige Holmes second published book. Her first book, "Counting Stars" won the first Whitney Award, ever, in the category of Romance. There are many of us that fell in love with "Counting Stars" and Michele's writing. I could see her amazing talent she possessed because she wrote such a captivating story. You often wonder how something as good as an "award winning" first book could ever be topped? Well, I am here to tell you, that this is exactly what Michele has done. She went above and beyond with her writing of "All the Stars in Heaven". It was very evident to see the fabulous growth that Michele has made as a writer.
This story was much more than a romance, but was also a murder mystery/suspense novel. The storyline is very deep and involved with happenings of current times and what happened to main character Sarah Morgan's mother many years ago. The other main character, Jay Kendrich, was first introduced in a smaller role in "Counting Stars". I have to admit, I did not really like Jay that much in the first book. Jay has grown up a lot since the first book and he is more appealing this time around. In fact, I found myself hoping that everything would turn out for him in this book. He also finally finds love in this novel. It is hard to obtain that love, granted, but eventually it comes along.
I really did not expect such a deep storyline when I first picked up this novel, so I was happily surprised when the mystery continued to grow and things became more and more complicated for our main couple. I ended up loving this book. There is a very high angst level, but this fact keeps you glued to the pages.
Here is a picture of Michele,(in the middle) with the women of LDS Womens Book review (Shanda, Hillary and of course me!). Michele joined us to record a podcast right after "Counting Stars" first came out. She will be joining us soon again for another podcast.
I wanted to ask Michele many questions about her new novel as I posted this review. So, here are a few questions and answers for you about, "All the Stars in Heaven."
1.Great job on your new novel Michele! I was very impressed with "All the Stars in Heaven". Did you set out from the beginning to write a mystery/romance?
For whatever reason, Jay and Sarah's story came to me as a suspenseful romance (not to be confused with romantic suspense, where the suspense is the focus of the story). I still wanted the romance to be first and foremost. That said, the storylines were tightly intwined, and it became very apparent, very quickly that I'm not a suspense writer. That element of the plot was more than a little challenging.
2. I could tell as I read your book that your writing has continued to grow and develop by leaps and bounds. Mind you, I loved your writing before, and this story seem so perfectly formed. How do you feel about your own writing progress?
I feel as if the manuscript I completed earlier this year---a YA fairytale written in first person---is probably the best thing I've ever written. I sincerely hope I get better with each book. Making the leap to being able to write in first person was huge for me, as I've tended to be a bit of a "head hopper" :) in the past.
3. Did you outline the story first? There were so many characters and plot lines weaving together throughout the book. I would be surprised if you hadn't done an outline.
I didn't do an outline for All the Stars in Heaven, Counting Stars, or any of my other novels. I do like to print out a calendar of the time I'm writing about and make notes of what events in the story happen on which days.
4.Why did you decide to write your second novel about Jay Kendrich? I thought for sure that you would write the second novel about one of Jane's sisters.
I do have a novel planned for Jane's sister, Caroline, and I am currently writing Tara's (Jane's crazy friend) story. But Jay was a great character who didn't get a happy ending. I wanted readers to see him get his turn at love.
5.I think I recall you saying that there will be one more "stars" book that you will write in this series? If this is so, have you already started writing it or are you currently working on it ?
Caroline's story was supposed to be next, but the editors at Covenant felt Tara's story should come first, so a few months ago I switched gears, set Caroline's manuscript aside, and dove into Tara's world. Tara is a really great character, and I'm having a lot of fun with her story.
During the few years since we've last seen her (wearing a bright orange pant suit and sobbing at Jane's wedding), she's moved to LA and become a big time realtor. But life is lonely, and she hops a plane in late December, hoping to meet up with some girlfriends at a spa in Boulder, Colorado for the holidays. Through a series of misfortunes, she finds her plane rerouted to Salt Lake City, her wallet stolen, her luggage lost. The one man brave enough to come to her rescue is Benjamin Whitmore, a pig farmer from Ohio, and Tara's polar opposite. It isn't long before sparks fly between the two of them as tempers clash. But opposites do attract, and by the end of the story Tara finds out that Ben's ways do have some appeal and her heart might not be in such a different place after all.
6. What other books do you have in the works to write?
I would like to finish Caroline's story and publish that through Covenant. I also have a second (one is completed and unpublished) Scottish historical started. What I'm itching to start on this fall is the sequel to the fairytale I wrote this past year.
7.When is the most perfect time for you to write?
The time I find most productive is when I have no interruptions from my offspring :) My husband is kind enough to take over a couple of Saturdays a month, so I can take my lap top and head to the library for 4-5 hours.
8.What are your favorite books to read? Are there any authors that have inspired you in your own writing?
Favorite books to read is a difficult question. I love reading and am always finding new authors I enjoy. A few of my favorites are Lisa Wingate, Lolly Winston, and Judith McNaught.
9. Who is your greatest supporter/s in your writing? Your husband, your kids or your writing group?
My husband is my greatest supporter. Without him, the books wouldn't happen. My children . . . not so much. Our teenagers want to know why I have to hog the computer so much. My younger children always want me to get off the computer and play with them, feed them, change them etc. My writing group, on the other hand, is awesome. They're amazingly talented and generous. I rely on them to help me get the plots in my head to make sense on paper.
10. Could you give some words of advice to beginning writers?
Join The League of Utah Writers, Romance Writers of America, or any other applicable writing organization you can. Meet other authors. Find a critique group. Attend faithfully. Write often (even if it's just a few sentences a day). Realize rejection is part of the program. Keep at it. Don't give up!
Thanks so much Michele! I look forward to podcasting with you again very soon!
Thanks, Sheila. Hope this is what you had in mind.
Sheila & I spent a pleasant afternoon with authors Annette Lyon & Heather Moore recording Episode 35 of the LDSWBR podcast. Annette's most recent novel, Tower of Strength, was released this past spring. Heather's newest book, Alma, a continuation of her previous book, Abinadi, will be released this fall. Annette & Heather are two of the sweetest ladies you'll ever meet. While Heather is dark-haired & quiet and Annette is blonde & bit more outspoken, their friendship is apparent in the way the support and encourage each other.
During the podcast, we spoke about the different experiences they've had researching their historical novels. Heather & Annette are both thorough in their research as well as sincere about telling an inspiring, uplifting story.
Heather Moore spent several years in the Holy Land, and was baptized in the Red Sea. Her book, Alma, tells the story of one of the wicked priests of King Noah after his conversion, covering the gathering of believers at the Waters of Mormon and beyond, and what events may have transpired during that time. I was thrilled to be asked to read and review Alma. As much as I liked Abinadi, I enjoyed Alma even more! Heather tells the story of Raquel & Maia, as well as Alma & Helam, in such a personal & unforgettable way that it was quite easy to imagine myself there. I can't wait to see what Heather has in store for the future!
When Annette Lyon wrote her first Temple novel, House on the Hill, she had no idea it was only the first in a series. Tower of Strength, book four of the Temple Series, is set during the construction of the Manti temple. Tabitha and Samuel have both suffered difficult losses. As a single parent far from family, Tabitha has had to be strong to take care of herself and her son, Will. Samuel arrives in Manti from London & accepts work in a stable full of unpleasant and unfamiliar tasks involving cleaning up after farm animals. His frustration and loneliness lead him to question why he needed to come to Zion at all, especially after losing the one person he wanted to be with in Zion. You can watch a trailer for Tower of Strengthhere.
Tower of Strength and Alma come highly recommended from LDSWBR. Thanks to Heather and Annette for all the hard work and research, as well as the good conversation! Listen to Episode 35 and enjoy!
While Tristi's first three novels are historical, Agent in Old Lace & her upcoming series are contemporary mystery/suspense. You can purchase Tristi's books through her website: www.tristipinkston.com. Agent in Old Lace is available in stores now.
Tristi is thorough in her research, meticulous about her writing, and the result is a story that draws you in, characters you care about and a reading experience you won't soon forget.
Don't forget to nominate Agent in Old Lace and any other of your favorite books published by LDS authors in 2009 at www.whitneyawards.com. No need to wait until the last minute- you can nominate books all year long!
You can find a list of eligible books by LDS authors on the LDS Publisher blog. Go check it out- and don't forget to submit your nominations!
My rating: 4 of 5 stars I really enjoyed "All's Fair" by Julie Coulter Bellon. There are two storylines to follow in this novel; siblings Kristen, a political campaign expert and Brandon an Army doctor and LDS covert who is stationed in Iraqi.
Kristen leaves her fiance at the altar and the old boyfriend comes into the picture and Brandon finds he is falling for his fellow doctor, Rachel Fields. The two story lines eventually merge, but I found I was drawn more to Brandon and Rachel's story. Their relationship seemed more believable and this was also the more exciting storyline. Granted, the storyline taking place in Iraqi is full of war happenings, kidnappings and terrorists; of course this had more excitement.
Julie is very good at writing suspense. I read this book rather quickly because I had to see if everyone made it out alive. I felt the book had a good ending, though some people have a thing against a "Happy Ever After" type ending. Personally, I don't mind reading a happy ending once in awhile. I have had too much reality in my own life lately and like to be taken away to a happy place when I read.
I look forward to reading more of Julie's books. I am sorry it has taken this long to find out what a great writer she is.
In Episode 32, Sheila interviews author Rebecca Talley. Rebecca is the author of Heaven Scent and her latest novel, Altared Plans. She also writes on two blogs, her own blog & this one. Along with all of her writing, Rebecca is a busy mother of ten. You can hear all about Rebecca in Episode 32. While you're at it, visit her website at www.pursueyourwritingdream.com.
Episode 33 is a collection of interviews from the Storymakers Conference as well as the Whitney Awards. You'll hear from authors such as Gregg Luke, Candace Salima, Shirley Bahlmann & her son, Bron, James Dashner, H.B. Moore, Josi Kilpack, Brandon Sanderson, Aprilynne Pike and so many others! We spoke with several authors after the Whitney Awards Gala near the conclusion of the podcast, so you'll want to listen until the very end. Every year gets better and better. We can't wait to see what next year brings! And don't forget to nominate your favorite books published in 2009 at www.whitneyawards.com. No need to wait until the last minute- you can nominate books all year long!
You can find a list of eligible books by LDS authors on the LDS Publisher blog. Go check it out- and don't forget to submit your nominations!
Father's Day is on Sunday. I have always loved Father's Day because I have been blessed with such a great Dad. He has been one of the most influential people in my life and one of my best friends.
We used to work together at the Old IGA store he co-owned in Blackfoot Idaho. My Dad was the meatcutter and I wrapped the meat. We had some of the best talks about every facet of life; work, school, boys and the gospel. One of my best memories was of Saturday Morning Conference. We would listen to conference in the meat department while we worked. Elder Bruce R. McConkie was speaking that morning. The testimony he bore that day, left no doubts in ours minds, that he was preparing to go back home to our Heavenly Father. Elder McConkie passed away 13 days after conference.
( On April 19, 1985, Elder Bruce R. McConkie passed away in Salt Lake City. He was 69 years old. He had battled against cancer for more than a year, undergoing surgery for colon cancer in January 1984. He subsequently returned full-time to his apostolic duties while continuing chemotherapy treatment. His last public appearance was on April 6, when he addressed the Church’s general conference. {Information provided by http://www.gapages.com/mcconbr1.htm} )
As we worked and listened, the spirit was so strong and it was a bonding moment for my Dad and I. I remember standing there as we both had tears in our eyes listening to the words Elder McConkie was delivering.
Here is an excerpt from that address: Perhaps Elder McConkie's most stirring testimony was delivered in General Conference just days before his death:
"I am one of his witnesses, and in a coming day I shall feel the nail marks in his hands and in his feet and shall wet his feet with my tears.
"But I shall not know any better then I know now that he is God’s Almighty Son, that he is our Savior and Redeemer, and that salvation comes in and through his atoning blood and in no other way.” (Ensign, May 1985, p. 11.)
His words still stir my heart and bring tears to my eyes. To have known the Savior that well and show such happiness at being with him again; this was a true witness of Christ. Elder McConkie was and still is a powerful example of a man of God who lived to learn the truths of the gospel and share this knowledge with others.
I am so grateful that I have been able to share fun times and spiritual moments with my own dad. He is a wonderful man whom I will always love and admire so much.
If you are looking for some gift ideas or just some good books to read about fathers, the priesthood etc., here are a few you might be interested in.
In this sequel to his bestselling book Men of Valor, Robert L. Millet describes how men can become “men of influence,” thereby blessing their families and neighborhoods— even the world. How are we enabled to receive the Lord’s power? Brother Millet explains that maturing spiritually isn’t accomplished merely by being “active” in the Church and holding a current temple recommend, although those are necessary.
Men of Influence encourages men to achieve that connection between heaven and earth which eventually makes a good man into a holy man, transforming a noble man into a man who can lift the world. If you feel you’re living beneath your potential as a priesthood bearer (or if someone you love is), this book provides inspiration and practical advice to enable you to become one of the Lord’s valiant servants.
Why do we love sports so much? Perhaps it’s because a basketball, baseball, or football game is like a miniature lifetime―an unscripted, unpredictable drama where determination, adversity, persistence, exhilaration, and disappointment are all acted out in front of us.
The last-second three-pointer. The ninth-inning grand slam. The fourth and goal to go with time running out. In so many ways, the drama of sports mirrors the drama of life, where we all strive to overcome adversity and defeat with courage and determination. Drawing from the observations and stories of coaches, players, Church leaders, and even a few personal experiences, John Bytheway presents life lessons from the wide world of sports that all will appreciate. (Parents will appreciate that he also includes a few lessons not to learn from sports, including boasting, taunting, and the like.) Athletes, former athletes, and armchair quarterbacks of all ages will enjoy Sports: Life Lessons from Court, Field, and Gridiron.
Mormon Scientist: The Life and Faith of Henry Eyring by Henry J. Eyring Twice in the final years of his life, Elder Neal A. Maxwell told a grandson of Henry Eyring's, "You need to write your grandfather's story." This is that story of Henry Eyring, perhaps the Church's most acclaimed scientist. It is a book about science and Mormonism, written to be easily understood by newcomers to both subjects. It demonstrates why one of the Church's highest-profile intellectuals was also one of its humblest believers. In fact, this story of Henry Eyring shows how intellect and belief go hand-in-hand and how simple, faithful people can change the world
Priesthood Power:Blessing the Sick and Afflicted by Larry Barkdull Administering to the sick is a powerful ordinance, charged with symbolism and meaning that strike at the heart of our priesthood commission. This book answers many questions pertaining to this sacred ordinance. For example, what does the oil represent? Why are two or more elders typically required? How do we become the hands, arms, and voice of Jesus Christ? How should we prepare to bless? A must-have for every bearer of the Melchizedek Priesthood or for anyone preparing for the priesthood.
“Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church….” Our commission in the Melchizedek Priesthood is the same that Jesus gave to His Apostles when He sent them forth to serve: “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.”
-A Father's Blessing: The Power and Privilege of the Priesthood by Kenneth M. Page
As an Air Force pilot with twenty-five years of experience, Kenneth M. Page draws upon his knowledge of flying to create the Parable of the Beacon, in which he compares fathers' blessings to spiritual beacons. "A part of us yearns for things spiritual, for a sense of direction in life, for that heavenly beacon to guide us home."
Page believes that many fathers don't recognize the importance of such blessings in raising their families, "and, as a result, end up offering them spiritual crumbs while foregoing the feast to which the Lord has invited us."
Using personal experience, the experiences of others, and examples from scriptures and Church history, Kenneth Page reminds us how wondrous the gift of a father's blessing can be in the lives of his family members--children, spouse, and the priesthood holder as well.
These are just a few examples of some good gift ideas that can be found at Deseret Book. There are many more ideas including some fun games, good church music and the old stand by "ties".
Wow! Amazing! Can you believe it?!? I know, it's taken long enough :). Click here to listen. I'll confess right now that I'm getting my hiney kicked by two little kids who are now two years old and five months old, and sometimes by the two older ones, too! While my hubby was out of town last week, I cried no less than three, maybe four.... okay, possibly five.... times, and I'm tough to bring to tears. It's a refiner's fire for me, for sure! I'm going to learn patience whether I like it or not, lol!!
This past week the two little ones decided to try napping at the same time and I was able to blaze through some editing. Next on the list is a podcast Sheila recorded with author Rebecca Talley, followed by our Whitney Award interviews and our podcast with Tristi Pinkston. We've got some great stuff coming your way so hang in there. Oh, and thanks for your patience!
I was so excited to discover the first two chapters of JosiKilpack's book, English Trifle, on her website. Due to bereleased in August, English Trifle is the much anticipated sequel to Lemon Tart. Josi's main character, Sadie Hoffmiller, is an endearing, middle-aged woman who takes her cooking seriously, loves her two grown children, and somehow manages to find herself in the middle of things. Josi joined us on the LDSWBR podcast inEpisode 30for a very entertaining interview. While you're listening to the podcast, go check out the first two chapters of English Trifle on Josi's website.
