Fawkes by Nadine Brandes | RE:View

A tale of passion, plague, and plotting.

I'm going to do something different in this review and say that, if you like historical fiction mingled with the impossible, beautiful complexity of a magic system that offers power over colors, you absolutely NEED this book.

Now, on to my thoughts.

I read an advanced copy of this book several months ago and then (in total Emilie fashion) forgot *gasps* to write my review! Um, what? Who am I? What am I doing with my life?

Annnyyyywaaayyyyy.....

Susan Mason | Author Chat

I've had the pleasure of getting to know Susan just a little at the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat as well as seeing her at the annual American Christian Fiction Writers's conference. So happy to have her on the blog today! 

Susan Anne Mason describes her writing style as “romance sprinkled with faith.” She loves incorporating inspirational messages of God’s unconditional love and forgiveness into her characters’ journeys. Irish Meadows, her first historical romance, won the Fiction from the Heartland contest sponsored by the Mid-American Romance Authors chapter of RWA.
Susan lives outside Toronto, Ontario, with her husband, two children, and one rather plump cat. She loves red wine and chocolate, and is not partial to snow even though she’s Canadian. Learn more about Susan and her books at www.susanannemason.net.

Susanne Dietz | Author Chat + Giveaway

I had the blessing to meet this sweet woman years ago when we ended up living close-ish to one another and were going to the ACFW Conferece on the same flight! I'm so happy to host her here to talk about books--especially hers!

Susanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she's the award-winning author of over a dozen historical romances who's seen her work on the ECPA and Publisher's Weekly Bestseller Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and enjoys fancy-schmancy tea parties, genealogy, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama and a plate of nachos.

Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys | RE:View

This book. Oh my heart! I went into this blind (like I typically do) and had no idea what I was in for. But honestly, the story was so good that I’m glad I did. I might have been scared away if I knew hints of what the story would hold, but this way I was able to watch it unfold in its interpersonal beauty despite the weightiness of the topic.

The plot and historical facts were woven so seamlessly together that it felt like a historical account but with heart. It did take a few chapters for me to really get in to it and connect with the four main characters, but once I did it was incredible to see how they came together and to see what their story became.

I would highly recommend this to fan of historical fiction, YA historical, and those who enjoy stories with more weight to them but in a satisfying way. I walked away from this book with a greater understanding of a happening in history I’d had no prior knowledge of and a feeling of being a part of a great and beautiful story.

The Illusionist's Apprentice by Kristy Cambron | Re:View

Mysterious and filled with the rich history of the 1920s, The Illusionist's Apprentice will romance you and leave you longing for an era passed.

***

I thoroughly enjoyed this latest book by Kristy Cambron. She's such a master at painting a vibrant picture with words, drawing you into the story and pulling on your heart strings at the same time.

I loved Wren Lockhart's character and her affiliation to Harry Houdini as well as her own eccentricity's. She's a strong character who will stand up for what she believes, but there's a softness to her as well. Something that, eventually, comes out and makes her feel whole in the reader's eyes. The true fruition of her character is a wondrous thing to behold through the story.

Slipping into the time-frame of this novel was a lot of fun for me. I enjoy the luxury and vibrancy of the 20's - a great decade to set this mystery in - and found myself thoroughly enjoying the delicate touches of information, description, and history. Kristy really has a beautiful way of drawing out emotion in her characters while painting a dynamic picture of what life could have been like during this time.

As for the mystery, I feel like it was well formed. There were a few elements that I felt were made to be a big deal (I won't reveal them here so as not to spoil) but ended up seeming to not matter as much in the end. That confused me a little, but it didn't distract from the overall idea of the story.

Also, as a larger focus of this book, Kristy deals with the ideas of illusion versus magic. I loved that she did this and had her characters learning as they went. It brings to mind another current book I'll be reading soon...but that's another review ;-)

I would definitely recommend this to those who like historical fiction, mystery, and anything to do with the 1920s and the idea of illusion versus magic. Kristy is a beautiful, lyrical writer who will stun you with her artfully painted words!

My Rating: 4*
Purchase: The Illusionist's Apprentice 


Book Description
(from Amazon)

Not all illusions happen on the stage.

Wren Lockhart, apprentice to master illusionist Harry Houdini, uses life on a vaudeville stage to escape the pain of her past. She continues her career of illusion after her mentor’s death, intent on burying her true identity.

But when a rival performer’s act goes tragically wrong, the newly formed FBI calls on Wren to speak the truth—and reveal her real name to the world. She transfers her skills for misdirection from the stage to the back halls of vaudeville, as she finds herself the unlikely partner in the FBI’s investigation. All the while Houdini’s words echo in her mind: Whatever occurs, the crowd must believe it’s what you meant to happen. She knows that if anyone digs too deep, secrets long kept hidden may find their way to the surface—and shatter her carefully controlled world.

Set during one of the richest, most vibrant eras in American history, this Jazz Age novel of illusion, suspense, and forgotten pasts is perfect for fans of The Magician’s Lie, challenging all to find the underpinnings of faith on their own life’s stage.

_______________
I received this book for free but was under no obligation to post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.  

Jeanne M. Dickson | Author Chat

You may recognize this lovely authors name from my Monday New Novel News post about her first and new release of her book Grounded Hearts. I am so excited to give you all a deeper look into the author of this lovely novel. So, grab your beverages and let's get to know author Jeanne M. Dickson!

Jeanne M. Dickson was born into an Irish American family, the only girl surrounded by four brothers. Her grandmother lived with them and was a constant source of stories about life in Ireland and the saints and ancestors long gone from this earth. She credits her mother, her aunts, and her grandmother with her love of storytelling.

Perfecting her craft, she attends many writer’s conferences and over the years, she has won and finaled in numerous RWA romance writing awards including the Daphne du Maurier Award, the Maggie Award, The Molly, The Tara, and she was the overall contest winner of Launching A Star.

Today she lives in Coastal San Diego with her fabulous husband, her two wonderful girls, and a dozen disobedient rose bushes.

Let's get real...

What’s one thing you would like to impart to your readers about your books and being an author?
We’re all human therefore we’re all sinners. But His forgiveness and amazing grace is offered freely upon our asking.

Share an embarrassing story. (Come on, we know you have one!)
During a ballet performance of Les Patineurs, my partner lifted me up and my costume went down. Truly a Lucille Ball moment but that pretty much sums up most of my ballet career.

If you were forced to do karaoke what song would you pick?
You’ll Be Back from Hamilton.

Two truths and a lie:
A)I lived in Ireland when I was a child.
B) I lived in France when I was a child.
C) I lived in Germany when I was a child.

Any weird habits you have when writing or plotting?
Dressing my Barbie dolls in new outfits to reflect my cast of characters, then placing them on my desk. Here is the cast of characters from my work in progress, Eire Ever After.

If your book became a movie, who would you cast for your main characters?
Saoirse Ronan and Henry Cavill.

Name one song/artist you're embarrassed you like.
Death Of A Bachelor by Panic! At the Disco.

Which of your characters do you secretly have a crush on?
My pilot, Dutch. Of course.

Connect with Jeanne:
Website - http://www.jeannemdickson.com/
FB - https://www.facebook.com/Jeanne-M-Dickson-660226910801814/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/jmdickson1
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jeannedickson/

Grounded Hearts
by Jeanne M. Dickson

A brave midwife. A wounded pilot. A risky secret.

In the midst of World War II, Ireland has declared herself neutral. Troops found on Irish soil must be reported and interned, no matter which side they are fighting for. When midwife Nan O’Neil finds a wounded young Canadian pilot at her door, she knows she’s taking a huge risk by letting him in. Not only is she a widow living alone, but if caught harboring a combatant, she’ll face imprisonment.

Still, something compels Nan to take in “flyboy” Dutch Whitney, an RAF pilot whose bomber has just crashed over County Clare. While she tends to his wounds and gives him a secret place of refuge, the two begin to form a mutual affection—and an unbreakable bond.

But Nan has another secret, one that has racked her with guilt since her husband’s death and made her question ever loving again. As Nan and Dutch plan his escape, can he help restore her faith?

Don't forget to join in the giveaway from Monday's post (you can enter below):

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Answer: B was the lie.

Kate Breslin & Jeanne M. Dickson | New Novel News

High as the Heavens 
by Kate Breslin

Published: June 6, 2017
Publisher: Bethany House/Baker Publishing
Purchase: High as the Heavens

In 1917, British nurse and war widow Evelyn Marche is trapped in German-occupied Brussels. She works at the hospital by day and as a waitress by night. But she also has a secret: She’s a spy for the resistance. When a British plane crashes in the park, Evelyn must act quickly to protect the injured soldier who has top-secret orders and a target on his back.

Get to know Kate...

If your book became a movie, who would you cast for your main characters? 
Actor James Norton and Actress Kaya Scodelario-Davis – dreamy couple!

Favorite season? 
Autumn, with sunny skies and crisp, cool air

Cats or dogs or both? 
Love both, but I’m a Catwoman!

Connect with Kate: http://katebreslin.com/

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Grounded Hearts
by Jeanne M. Dickson

Published: June 13, 2017
Publisher: Waterfall Press
Purchase: Grounded Hearts

A brave midwife. A wounded pilot. A risky secret.

In the midst of World War II, Ireland has declared herself neutral. Troops found on Irish soil must be reported and interned, no matter which side they are fighting for. When midwife Nan O’Neil finds a wounded young Canadian pilot at her door, she knows she’s taking a huge risk by letting him in. Not only is she a widow living alone, but if caught harboring a combatant, she’ll face imprisonment.

Still, something compels Nan to take in “flyboy” Dutch Whitney, an RAF pilot whose bomber has just crashed over County Clare. While she tends to his wounds and gives him a secret place of refuge, the two begin to form a mutual affection—and an unbreakable bond.

But Nan has another secret, one that has racked her with guilt since her husband’s death and made her question ever loving again. As Nan and Dutch plan his escape, can he help restore her faith?

Get to know Jeanne...

If your book became a movie, who would you cast for your main characters?
Saoirse Ronan as my heroine, Nan. And Aidan Turner as my hero, Dutch.

Who is your favorite secondary character?
Rogelio de la Vega in Jane the Virgin.

If you were stranded on an island what are three things you couldn’t live without?
A five star resort. Sunscreen. Internet service.

Connect with Jeanne: http://www.jeannemdickson.com/

 

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A Stolen Heart by Amanda Cabot | New Novel News

A Stolen Heart
by Amanda Cabot

Published: March 14, 2017
Publisher: Revell
Purchase: A Stolen Heart

From afar, Cimarron Creek seems like an idyllic town tucked in the Texas Hill Country. But when former schoolteacher Lydia Crawford steps onto its dusty streets in 1880, she finds a town with a deep-seated resentment of Northerners—like her. Lydia won’t let that get her down, though. All will be well when she’s reunited with her fiancé.

But when she discovers he has disappeared—and that he left behind a pregnant wife—Lydia is at a loss about what to do next. The handsome sheriff urges her to trust him, but can she trust anyone in this town where secrets are as prevalent as bluebonnets in spring?

Get to know Amanda...

If your main character celebrated Halloween, what would she dress up as?
Lydia would be a Hershey’s Kiss. What else would you expect of a woman who makes candies for a living? Of course, Kisses weren’t invented until 1907, and A Stolen Heart takes place in 1880, but we can pretend, can’t we?

What’s one thing you must have/do in the morning?
Exercise. That gets both my blood and my creativity flowing.

Favorite place you’ve traveled to?
Yellowstone. I love everything about it – the geysers, hot pools, mudpots; the wildlife, the sagebrush prairies, the mountains. In fact, I like it so much that it’s one of the reasons my husband and I moved to Wyoming.

Connect with Amanda on her website: http://www.amandacabot.com/

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Kristy Cambron | Author Chat

Grab your hot drinks friends, it's time for another author chat. And today's chat is additionally special because we're celebrating the book-birthday of The Illusionist's Apprentice TODAY! Woohoo! Make sure to congratulate Kristy in the comments below. Now to introduce this lovely lady to you all...

Kristy Cambron has a background in art and design, but she fancies life as a vintage-inspired storyteller. She is the author of The Ringmaster’s Wife, named to Publishers Weekly Spring 2016 Religion & Spirituality TOP 10. Her novels have been named to Library Journal Reviews’ Best Books and RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards Best lists, and received a 2015 INSPY Awards nomination for best debut novel. The Illusionist’s Apprentice (HarperCollins, 2017) is her fourth novel. Her first Bible study DVD and study guides, The Verse Mapping Series, will release in spring, 2018.

Kristy holds a degree in Art History from Indiana University and has 15 years of experience in education and leadership development for a Fortune-100 Corporation. Kristy lives in Indiana with her husband and three sons, where she can probably be bribed with a coconut mocha latte and a good read.

Let's get real...

I provided Kristy with a set of questions for this chat but I love her take on it!
Kristy: I want this to be a speed-fire interview. 😁 I’ve selected my top questions from the list – and added a few myself. I’ve set the clock at 5:00 minutes, I’ll answer as many questions as I can in that time. Go!

What time of day do you write?
3pm is my magic hour

What’s one thing you would like to impart to your readers about your books and being an author?
Jesus Christ can redeem anything and anyone.

Any weird habits you have when writing or plotting?
Plotting doesn’t work for me. But I do edit all manuscripts by reading aloud– with a British accent. 😀

Favorite fandom?
Once Upon a Time

What’s one thing you must have/do in the morning?
COFFEE + JESUS (package deal)

Share one pet peeve you have.
Bullying and toxic talk

Coffee or tea?
Coconut Mocha lattes

Creamy or smooth peanut butter?
Smooth hazelnut butter

What is the strangest food combo that they actually enjoy?
Tomato basil soup with feta cheese

Favorite food?
Mediterranean or German cuisine

Least favorite food?
Sushi (Sorry y’all, but no way will I try that again.)

Favorite dessert?
Chocolate-covered strawberries

If you were stranded on an island what are three things you couldn’t live without?
My family, a coffee shop, and my Bible

What's one chore you hate doing?
Folding laundry!

Name one song/artist you're embarrassed you like.
I could never change the radio on a James Taylor song #notembarrassed

If you could live in a fantasy world, who’s would it be?
Neverland!

Connect with Kristy...
KristyCambron.com Facebook: Kristy Cambron | Twitter: @KCambronAuthor |
Instagram: kristycambron |  Pinterest: KCambronAuthor
Purchase: The Illusionist's Apprentice

Harry Houdni’s one-time apprentice holds fantastic secrets about the greatest illusionist in the world. But someone wants to claim them . . . or silence her before she can reveal them on her own.

Boston, 1926— Jenny “Wren” Lockhart is a bold eccentric—even for a female vaudevillian. As notorious for her inherited wealth and gentleman’s dress as she is for her unsavory upbringing in the back halls of a vaudeville theater, Wren lives in a world that challenges all manner of conventions.

In the months following Houdini’s death, Wren is drawn into a web of mystery surrounding a spiritualist by the name of Horace Stapleton, a man defamed by Houdini’s ardent debunking of fraudulent mystics in the years leading up to his death. But in a public illusion that goes terribly wrong, one man is dead and another stands charged with his murder. Though he’s known as one of her teacher’s greatest critics, Wren must decide to become the one thing she never wanted to be: Stapleton’s defender.

Forced to team up with the newly formed FBI, Wren races against time and an unknown enemy, all to prove the innocence of a hated man. In a world of illusion, of the vaudeville halls that showcase the flamboyant and the strange, Wren’s carefully constructed world threatens to collapse around her. Layered with mystery, illusion, and the artistry of the Jazz Age’s bygone vaudeville era, The Illusionist’s Apprentice is a journey through love and loss and the underpinnings of faith on each life’s stage.
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Heather Day Gilbert | Author Chat

Please welcome Heather to the blog, friends. She is a...

"Grace Award winner and bestselling author, writes novels that capture life in all its messy, bittersweet, hope-filled glory. Born and raised in the West Virginia mountains, generational story-telling runs in her blood. You can find Heather's Viking historicals and West Virginia mystery/suspense novels here."

I connected with Heather through Instagram and am so excited to have her here for an Author Chat. So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea) and settle in to get the know the real & fun side of Heather.

What prank would you like to play on your main character?
Let's just put it this way—I would NEVER try to prank my Viking warrior woman lead, Freydis. She would likely take my head off in one slice of her curved knife with her honed killer instincts! LOL.

Which of your characters do you secretly have a crush on?
Generally, it's the male love interest (often the husband) in the book I'm currently writing. Honestly, I think most female authors are a little in love with several of our male characters, especially if you write first-person books like I do. But my top two picks are the ones most like my hubby, so that means Thorfinn Karlsefni in my Viking historicals and Thomas Spencer in my Appalachian mysteries.

Share about a failed meal you made.
Recently, I made my first Thanksgiving dinner for my family (we have always eaten with my in-laws or my parents, and this year my parents were out of town). While the turkey breast turned out great, sad to say I burned the gravy so badly it smelled (and tasted) like charcoal. I always forget to whisk the gravy packet with the water FIRST and then add to boiling water. However, to redeem myself, I will elaborate that I can whip up flour/milk gravy easily, but this time I was trying to make the kind that came with the turkey breast. ;)

Two truths and a lie (answer at the bottom):
This is so fun! Okay—my readers might guess one of these...

1. I had my daughter close me in a car trunk so I could see how hard it would be for my sleuth to escape.
2. I have a scar on my knee from when a drove a motorcycle into a cinder block wall.
3. I love to ski and had a brief stint as a ski instructor at our local ski lodge (Winterplace).

If your book became a movie, who would you cast as your main characters?
I have pondered this since God's Daughter is in negotiations for a movie option right now. I had pictured Michael Fassbender for Thorfinn Karlsefni (okay, maybe when he was a bit younger), Amanda Seyfried for Gudrid, and Lasselom (you can find him on Instagram) as Leif Eiriksson. But for Freydis in Forest Child, it's harder. I pictured a younger Tilda Swinton or Aslaug on the History Channel's Vikings series. You can check all my Pinterest boards out here and you'll be able to see who I pictured for my books.

From Heather's awesome Pinterest board!

Thanks so much for letting me visit, Emilie!

So happy to have you Heather!

You can connect with Heather online here:
Website: http://heatherdaygilbert.com
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/heatherdaygilbert
Twitter: @heatherdgilbert
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/heatherdgilbert/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7232683.Heather_Day_Gilbert
E-Mail: heatherdaygilbert@gmail.com

Forest Child 
by Heather Day Gilbert

Viking warrior. Dauntless leader. Protective mother.

Determined to rise above her rank as the illegitimate "forest child" of Eirik the Red, Freydis launches a second voyage to Vinland to solidify her power and to demand the respect she deserves. She will return home with enough plunder to force her brother, Leif, to sell her the family farm in Greenland.

But nothing can prepare her for the horrors she must confront in Vinland...and nothing can stand in her way when her family is threatened.

In her race to outrun the truths that might destroy her, Freydis ultimately collides with the only enemy she cannot silence—her own heart.

Historically based on the Icelandic Sagas, Forest Child brings the memorable, conflicted persona of Freydis Eiriksdottir to life. This immersive tale is Book Two in the bestselling Vikings of the New World Saga.


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...And the lie was #3

The Ringmaster's Wife by Kristy Cambron | RE:View

A masterpiece of emotion and evocative storytelling, The Ringmaster's Wife's weaves together the fanciful notions and glamor of the circus amidst the rich tapestry of 1920s history. A superb story with vibrant characters, the sparkle of romance, and the power of courage.

***

I am lost to the thrills and magic of the circus. Please, don't send help. I want to stay here forever, trapped between the pages and avoiding the reality that I can't run off to the menagerie.

From the moment I opened this book I knew it was going to be special. I have long since been captivated by the circus and Kristy's fabulous writing drew to life every hope and dream within me. I saw the lights, smelled the molasses coated popcorn, and grew teary eyed at the stunning performances.

I loved the juxtaposition of characters from sweet and determined Lady Rosamund Easling and Irishman Colin Keary in all of his manly fastidious, to Mable and John Ringling and their unique relationship. It felt like a multitude of stories wrapped up into one that painted a beautiful picture of how the Lord orchestrates lives together in ways we would not suspect.

Being a lover of all things from the turn-of-the-century Jazz Age, I appreciated the thorough research Kristy put into this book.  I loved the addition of Walt Disney (though brief) and the history of Ca D'Zan. It's now on my travel list.

I urge you all to read this book if for no other reason than to lose yourself in the vibrant world of the circus and how two women's lives were radically affected by grace, hope, determination, and the power of courage. The history is organic to the story, the romance sweet and natural, and the plot will pull you through until the very end. A must read! Brava!

Rating: 5*
Purchase: The Ringmaster's Wife

Book Description
(from Amazon)

An ounce of courage.

A leap of faith.

Together, they propel two young women to chase a new life—one that’s reimagined from what they might have become.

In turn-of-the-century America, a young girl dreams of a world that stretches beyond the confi nes of a quiet life on the family farm. With little more than her wit and a cigar box of treasures, Mable steps away from all she knows, seeking the limitless marvels of the Chicago World’s Fair. There, a chance encounter triggers her destiny—a life with a famed showman by the name of John Ringling.

A quarter of a century later, Lady Rosamund Easling boards a ship to America as a last adventure before her arranged marriage. There, the twenties are roaring, and the rich and famous gather at opulent, Gatsby-esque parties. The Jazz Age has arrived, and with it, the golden era of the American circus, whose queen is none other than the enigmatic Mable Ringling.

When Rosamund’s path crosses with Mable’s and the Ringlings’ glittering world, she makes the life-altering decision to leave behind a comfortable future of estates and propriety, choosing instead the nomadic life of a trick rider in the Ringling Brothers’ circus.

A novel that is at once captivating, deeply poignant, and swirling with exquisite historical details of a bygone world, The Ringmaster’s Wife will escort readers into the center ring, with its bright lights, exotic animals, and a dazzling performance that can only be described as the Greatest Show on Earth!

_______________________

I received a free copy of this book but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.

A Changed Agent by Tracey J. Lyons | New Novel News

A Changed Agent
by Tracey J. Lyons

Published: July 19, 2016
From: Waterfall Press
Purchase: A Changed Agent

When schoolteacher Elsie Mitchell meets rugged William Benton on a train platform in Albany, it appears they have nothing in common. He isn’t the sort of fellow a proper young woman of the 1890s would ever speak to, much less become involved with. But when she arrives at her small town in the Adirondack Mountains, Elsie is offered a job as caregiver for this mysterious out-of-towner’s niece and nephew, who’ve been tragically orphaned. Heartbroken for them, she accepts.

Unknown to her, William is an undercover Pinkerton agent posing as a lumber-company foreman. He’s never wanted family—his work is too dangerous. Yet as Elsie transforms his house into a home and he spends time with the children, he feels drawn to family life—and to Elsie.

As a good Christian, Elsie is troubled by William’s secrets…though she does find him intriguing. And when a sinister figure from her past arrives, Elsie and William will have to trust in faith and newfound love to protect their unlikely family from danger.

Get to know Tracey...

Favorite place you’ve traveled to? 
I absolutely love staying in Key West. I like to think that my literary people are there! With all those Hemingway vibes I feel right at home.

What are you reading right now? 
Cindy Nord’s fabulous civil war novel, No Greater Glory.

Do you have a nickname? Yes Care to share?
My sister likes to call me spit fire!

An Amazon Top Ten bestselling historical romance author of the Women of Surprise series, Tracey sold her first book on 9/9/99! Her books have been translated into several languages and are available in print, digital and audio formats. Tracey lives with her husband in New York’s Hudson Valley region. She has appeared on the award winning Cox Cable Television show, Page One and on the stage of Lady Jane’s reading salon in New York City. She holds membership in Romance Writers of America, American Fiction Christian Writers and Novelists Inc. A true upstate New Yorker, Tracey believes you should write what you know. Her historical romances are all set in the New York State area. Tracey considers herself a small town gal who writes small town romances.

Connect with her on her webssite: www.traceylyons.com

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Anchor in the Storm by Sarah Sundin | RE:View

Anchor in the Storm is filled with mystery, romance, and historical details that will make you feel like you're living in Boston during WWII. 

Coming on the heels of Through Waters Deep, book one in the Waves of Freedom series, follows Lillian Avery and Arch Vandenberg during the height of WWII. Lillian, a strong character with a past that haunts her, overcomes all odds to work as a handicapped female pharmacist. Arch, wanting to escape the stereotype of a wealthy son riding on the coat tails of his families money, fights personal demons from his narrow escape from a sinking U-boat all while trying to prove himself as a working, competent officer. When their paths cross on a mission to solve a mystery involving drowsiness with Arch's men and Lillian's pharmacy, they forge a partnership to solve the problem and possible crime.

I really enjoyed Lillian and Arches story. The rich details that Sarah includes truly make the story. I felt as if I was experiencing WWII with the characters. Lillian was such a strong woman and I love how Sarah crafted her as a hard worker with strength to overcome the difficulties of her handicap as much as her past. I also like how persistent and patience Arch is with Lillian and how he deals with his struggles.

Sarah's writing and descriptions will drop you completely into the world of WWII in Boston. I felt like I was there and experiencing the stress of being a Navy officer in a ship as well as the frustration of being a woman in a position that wasn't traditionally held by women. As one of my favorite eras this was the perfect read!

I definitely recommend this book to fans of historical fiction, sweet romance, and mystery. 

My rating: 4*

Book Description
(from Amazon)

For plucky Lillian Avery, America's entry into World War Ii means a chance to prove herself as a pharmacist in Boston. The challenges of her new job energize her. But society boy Ensign Archer Vandenberg's attentions only annoy--even if he is her brother's best friend.

During the darkest days of the war, Arch's destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves--and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions for sedatives Lillian has filled? The two work together to answer that question, but can Arch ever earn Lillian's trust and affection?

Sarah Sundin brings World War Ii to life, offering readers an intense experience they won't soon forget.

_______________

I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.

Terri Wangard {Writer Wednesday}

Clearly I've been on vacation-mode for too long now! I didn't realize yesterday was Wednesday. I know, sad--right? Well, I'm excited to introduce you to Terri Wangard as my FIRST {Writer Wednesday} interview of 2016!!!

Things may look a little different - I've updated my questions for a fresh beginning to the New Year. I'm soooo excited about what I've got planned for this year so make sure you stop by tomorrow for a "Welcome to the New Year" post as well as some fun things to look forward to.

______________________________________

A little bit about Terri...

Terri Wangard’s first Girl Scout badge was the Writer. These days she is writing historical fiction, and won the 2013 Writers on the Storm contest and 2013 First Impressions, as well as being a 2012 Genesis finalist. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in library science, she lives in Wisconsin. Her research included going for a ride in a WWII B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. Classic Boating Magazine, a family business since 1984, keeps her occupied as an associate editor.

How to connect with Terri...

Website: www.terriwangard.com
Blog: www.terriwangard.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14695127.Terri_Wangard?from_search=true&search_version=service
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorterriwangard/
Twitter: @terriwangard
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/terriwangard/
Purchase: Friends and Enemies 

Get to know Terri

You and Writing

Tell us a little bit about yourself and writing...

I wrote stories as a kid. Those notebooks haven’t survived, so I have no idea if they were any good. I’ve always loved reading and going to the library. I first tried writing a novel in the early 2000s. I’d read a few books that were so similar, I decided to write a story the way I would like it. A publisher had my manuscript for a year before saying No thanks. I stopped writing for a while.

In 2008, I read Debbie Macomber’s Twenty Wishes, about a group of women who decide to fulfill their secret dreams. I bought a laptop and started writing again.

Emilie here: I love this because of the simple fact that a BOOK can inspire writing. I'm sure many writers have that one book (or possibly a few) that made them think "I can do this too!"

Your Writing

Tell us a little bit about your book...

Why did you write it? 
Friends and Enemies is based on family history on the German side, learned from a batch of letters written in the postwar years. We are no longer in touch with them, so I don’t know what they believed or did during the war. I created a story for them.

What was a challenge you faced while writing it? 
Learning about conditions in Germany during the war. I based the story in the city and town the distant cousins lived in, and finding wartime information wasn’t easy. My German capability is atrocious.

Was there a passage of scripture you came across or used while writing it that you’d like to share? 
Psalm 31: 14-15. “I trust in you, O Lord; I say, ‘You are my God.’ My times are in your hands.” That verse was the guiding principle of the main characters.

Did you get to do any fun research for the book? 
I flew in a B-17. I’d already taken a walk-through tour, but felt I had to fly. Those birds are noisy and cramped. I had to make some changes in my manuscripts after that. The airmen who flew in them were incredible.

Were your characters easy to pin down or did you discover them along the way as you wrote the book? 
 I first wrote the story in 2008-09. I liked that version, but it wasn’t attracting any attention. So I rewrote it using a shorter time frame. The basic story is the same, but the main characters changed quite a bit, including their names. I still miss the old characters.

What’s your favorite snack while writing?
I don’t snack, but a bottle of water is always handy.

Emilie here: I've got German heritage too :D Sounds like your research was pretty fun though - I'm jealous of the plane ride! And I love the scripture you shared!

Writing

Let’s talk about your writing life...

Are you a Panster or Plotter? 
More of a punster, at least with Friends and Enemies. Since then I’ve tried to plot out a story before starting. With my current work in progress, I have a couple sentences written for each chapter. As I get to each chapter, I plan them more fully before writing. 


How many rejection letters did you get before being accepted by a publisher? 
From editors, probably only one. From all the others I met with at conferences, there was silence. I also met with several agents, but none were interested.

How long did it take to publish your first book? 
The original version was written in 2008-09, while waiting I wrote the two other books in the series. In March of 2015, I sent F&E to HopeSprings Books, where it was accepted very quickly.

Where do you find inspiration for your characters? 
Cemeteries. That’s where I look for period names and spellings.

Do you listen to music when you write?
World War II music. My favorite song is “Coming In On a Wing and a Prayer.”

How do you balance your writing life with “real” life? Any tips or tricks to share? 
I write on weekends. I’ve tried to write at night, but that doesn’t work so well. I’m highly prone to migraines, and screen time can be a trigger. Since I’ve never had to write under the pressure of a deadline, it hasn’t been a problem. It just takes me a long time to finish a project.

Emilie here: I laughed at "cemeteries" but I get it! I always write down names I see when I walk through cemeteries.

Enter to win a copy of Friends and Enemies. Paperback for US Residents only or eBook. 

You

Let's talk about you...

What’s one thing you are looking forward to in the New Year? 
Spending a little time at my dad’s place in Florida. I used to be a globe trotter, but now Florida is my vacation place.

What are your writing goals for this New Year? 
Completing my WIP. With three books coming out this year, I’ve set it aside often for editing, and then have a hard time getting back into it.

What are you currently reading? 
WASP of the Ferry Command, the women who flew military planes during WWII. Next up is Hidden Scars by Amanda King.

Emilie here: Thanks so much for being my "guinea pig" for this new format for interviews. Sounds like you've got a great year planned out!

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What did you think, dear readers? Like the new set up? Not too different, but I've given the writers a little more freedom to "pick their own adventure" as a guest on my blog. Make sure to come back next week (on the real Wednesday) for another great interview!