Welcome to the Blog Tour featuring Author, Sarah Price!

Welcome, Sarah!

Hi Nancee! 

Thank you so much for inviting me to share a little bit about myself on your blog.

There is something that has been on my mind for the past few days…weeks…months. As some of your readers will know, I write Amish fiction. What they may not know is the depth of my experience with the Amish and Mennonites and my commitment to writing as a craft, not just a profession or even a hobby.

You see, there is often a misconception by non-Amish fiction readers and reviewers that Amish fiction books are poorly written and just formula romance. And then there is often a problem concerning many authors’ accuracy of the portrayal of Amish. Many authors do not have first-hand experience with the Amish or readers are basing what they know on “reality” shows. And let’s not even bring up the “book-mill Amish authors” who spurn out five “books” in a week which are really just poorly written chapters aimed at deceiving readers into buying them, lured by the .99 cent price.

My books, however, do bring authentic experiences to the readers as I’ve been directly involved for my entire life with Mennonites (my father’s side of the family) and the Amish (I even lived on a farm!). In regard to my writing style, I focus on methods of absorbing the reader into the story to make them feel as if they are actually there. And character development is my favorite part of the writing process.

That is one of the main reasons that I continue to challenge myself as both a writer and an author. Retelling the Jane Austen classics raised the bar for me as well as for my readers. So far, most of my readers have responded positively to the gentle shift, an elevation of storytelling technique.

Earlier this month, The Matchmaker, the second book in my Amish Classics series, was released. It is the retelling of Jane Austen’s classic book, Emma. Based in an Amish setting, my Emma follows the same trials and tribulations of Jane Austen’s Emma. She thinks a little too highly of herself and those around her. She is quite happy to express her opinions, often when she shouldn’t. Personally, I love Emma as a character because she is so real. Let’s face it…she’s flawed. Aren’t we all? But her flaws get her into a few situations that will make the reader chuckle. That’s the best part of retelling Jane Austen’s novels: She had the greatest characters!

Many of my regular readers tend to stick to just the Amish genre. I often hear that it’s because they are clean and godly. However, so are the classics. By combining the two, I’m hoping readers might consider other genres, such as the classics, for their TBR pile!

A lot of people loved First Impressions, the first book in this series. I suspect that they will also love Emma since she is not the quintessential female character in an Amish book. But she is real…perfect only in the fact that she is flawed and, most likely, quite similar to people we encounter in our daily lives. Perhaps even a little bit like ourselves. ;-)

If you would like to learn more about The Matchmaker and visit other tour stops here is the link to take you to the Blog Tour List.

Many thanks, Sarah, for sharing your time and talents with us. As an avid reader of your books, I have seen your talents as an author grow and soar! You have truly developed your craft as an author to novelist! Congratulations on the success of your career!

 Buy your copy of The Matchmaker 

at 

Amazon / B&N / Christianbook.com

Sarah's Family History:

The Preiss family emigrated from Europe in 1705, settling in Pennsylvania as the area's first wave of Mennonite families. Sarah Price has always respected and honored her ancestors through exploration and research about her family history and their religion. At nineteen, she befriended an Amish family and lived on their farm throughout the years.

Biography:

As a masterful storyteller, Sarah Price prides herself on presenting an authentic Amish experience for her readers. Many of her stories are based on actual people she has met and her own experiences living among the Amish over the years. Sarah now resides in Morris County, New Jersey with her family.

While she started out as an Indie author, she signed on with Realms, an imprint of Charisma House and Waterfall Press, an imprint of Brilliance Publishing. Her first book, First Impressions: An Amish Adaptation of Pride and Prejudice was released in May 2014.


Get the latest news about Sarah Price on Facebook, Twitter, and sarahpriceauthor.com.

Review & GIVEAWAY!
"Huckleberry Spring"

The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill

Book 4

by Jennifer Beckstrand

 His love is gone.....

Description

Ever since the Helmuths’ grandson, Ben, abruptly broke his engagement and moved to Florida, Emma Nelson has kept busy tending her vegetable garden and raising award-winning pumpkins. She can put her heartache aside to help Ben’s mammi with her own pumpkin patch. At least until Ben shows up to lend support to his ailing dawdi…

Gardening side by side with pretty, nurturing Emma is a sweet kind of torture for Ben. She could have her pick of suitors who can offer what he can’t, and he cares too much to burden her with his secret. Leaving once more is the only option. Yet Emma’s courage is daring him to accept the grace that flourishes here, and the love that has been calling him back to Huckleberry Hill.

Biography

http://www.jenniferbeckstrand.com/ 
https://www.facebook.com/jenniferbeckstrandfans
Twitter: @JenniferBeckst1

I grew up with a steady diet of William Shakespeare and Jane Austen. After all that literary immersion, I naturally decided to get a degree in mathematics, which came in handy when one of my six children needed help with homework. After my fourth daughter was born, I started writing. By juggling diaper changes, soccer games, music lessons, laundry, and two more children, I finished my first manuscript--a Western--in just under fourteen years. I now write Inspirational Amish Romance. My goal is to write uplifting, inspiring stories with happy endings and hopeful messages. If my books make readers want to give themselves a big hug or jump up and down for joy, I've done my job. I am a member of Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers and am represented by Mary Sue Seymour of The Seymour Agency.

My Thoughts ~

Emma Nelson's happiness was swept away from her when Ben Helmuth broke her heart. With no explanation he broke off their relationship and moved to Florida, leaving Emma heartbroken. She tried unsuccessfully to find happiness, but her love for Ben hadn't lessened. A clumsy girl, she suffered numerous accidents and suffered incessant teasing.  Ben's grandmother summoned him home to help out on the farm while his grandfather recuperated from surgery. Reluctantly Ben agreed, secretly hoping to avoid contact with Emma.

Huckleberry Spring is the fourth in a series of Huckleberry Hill Amish books. I haven't had the pleasure of reading the prequels to this book, but the story stands well on its own. Some background information may have been helpful, but not a necessity. Ben's grandmother is quite a character, looking for ways to keep her grandson home in the Wisconsin Amish community. Each of the characters in this book are strong personalities, and their roles are well defined. At times I found myself feeling sorry for poor Emma, but she shed enough tears for the entire cast of characters. Other times I found myself laughing aloud over humorous incidents that were cleverly written. 

Throughout the first portion of the book I felt as if I wanted to move the story along, but once the action picked up speed I was absorbed in the story. Jennifer Beckstrand has a gift for bringing her cast of characters to life, making them realistic and familiar. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Huckleberry Hill and the developments that transpired throughout. Life was described in a realistic fashion that I found refreshing. Many times a story is glossed over, but not this one. The author brought realistic issues to life through this Amish community. Pick up a copy and enjoy!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

CONTEST GUIDELINES: Please leave a comment and your email address using [at] and [dot] to protect your email address. Giveaways are limited to residents of the continental US only, please. I am not responsible for loss or damage through the postal service. Winners have one week to claim their prizes. Thank you so much for visiting my blog! I appreciate all of your comments!

Optional: For additional chances to win this giveaway, share this contest through either Twitter or Facebook, and sign up to follow my blog. Please let me know what you did for extra chances to win. Deadline for this giveaway is Friday, February 27, 2015.

"The Crimson Cord"

Rahab's Story

by Jill Eileen Smith

 Compelling!

Description

Wife to a gambler who took one too many risks, Rahab finds herself sold as a slave to cover her husband’s debt. Forced into prostitution by Dabir, counselor to the Syrian king, Rahab despairs of ever regaining her freedom and her self-respect. But when Israelite spies enter Jericho and come to lodge at her house, Rahab sees a glimmer of hope and the opportunity of a lifetime.

In one risky moment, she takes a leap of faith, puts her trust in a God she does not know, and vows to protect the spies from the authorities. When the armies of Israel arrive weeks later, Rahab hopes they will keep their promise, but she has no idea what kind of challenges await her outside Jericho’s walls–or if she will ever know the meaning of love.

• • Amazon
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  • First Chapter

Biography

Jill Eileen Smith is the author of Desert Princess (ebook short) #1 Loves of King Solomon series, the Wives of the Patriarchs series, the upcoming Daughters of the Promised Land series, and the bestselling author of the Wives of King David series. When she isn't writing, she can often be found reading, biking, traveling, spending time with friends, or snugging her feline writing buddy Tiger. She especially enjoys spending time with her family. 

To learn more about Jill or for more information about her books, visit her website at www.jilleileensmith.com. You can also contact Jill at jill@jilleileensmith.com. She loves hearing from her readers. You may also reach her on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith

My Thoughts ~

"The Crimson Cord" is the fictional story of Rahab as revealed in scripture. Little is known about Rahab aside from the implications that she was a prostitute in the city of Jericho. Jill Eileen Smith has chosen a biblical character about which very little information is available, and developed her knowledge into a compelling full-length novel. Drawing upon scripture and a great deal of research the story of Rahab comes to life, and through her tale comes the story of God's chosen people, Israel. 

The story of Rahab is told in such vivid detail that she becomes a woman of powerful character. The entire cast of characters in "The Crimson Cord" are revealed as exhibiting human qualities consistent since The Creation. Descriptive and significant detailing creates picturesque visions of the countryside and cities that are explored throughout this novel, as well as credible portrayals of the customs of that period in history. Information from scripture is utilized with accuracy, and expounded upon to develop Rahab's story and the stories of those with whom she came in contact. 

I found this book to be a powerful and impressive fictional portrayal, and I highly recommend it to those who are interested in biblical fiction. This author has woven a story of human strengths and weaknesses while building a significant chronicle of history as described in scripture. 

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review. 

"With Music In Their Hearts"

by Carole Brown

 The music plays on......,

Description

Angry at being rejected for military service, Minister Tyrell Walker accepts the call to serve as a civilian spy within his own country. 

Across the river from Cincinnati, Ohio, a spy working for a foreign country is stealing secret plans for newly developed ammunition to be used in the war. According to Tyrell's FBI cousin, this spy favors pink stationery giving strong indications that a woman is involved. 

Tyrell's instructed to obtain a room in the Rayner Boarding House run by the lovely, spunky red-haired Emma Jaine Rayner. Sparks of jealousy and love fly between them immediately even as they battle suspicions that one or the other is not on the up and up. 

While Tyrell searches for the murdering spy who reaches even into the boarding home, Emma Jaine struggles with an annoying renter, a worried father (who could be involved in this spy thing), and two younger sisters who are very different but just as strong willed as she is. 

Tyrell works to keep his double life a secret and locate the traitor. He refuses to believe that Emma Jaine could be involved even when he sees a red-haired woman in the arms of another man. Could the handsome and svelte banker who's also determined to win Emma Jaine's hand for marriage, be the dangerous man he s looking for? Is the trouble-making renter who hassles Emma Jaine serving as a flunky? Worse, is Papa Rayner so worried about his finances and keeping his girls in the style they re used to, that he'll stoop to espionage? 

Will their love survive the danger and personal issues that arise to hinder the path of true love?

This book can be purchased at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.booksamillion.com/

Biography

Carole Brown's debut novel, The Redemption of Caralynne Hayman, is a RWA Oklahoma International Digital Award 2nd place winner, a Clash of the Titles top three finalist, a Selah Award finalist in debut novels, and a semi-finalist in the Genesis contest. 

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, she enjoys mentoring beginning writers. She loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband have ministered and counseled across the country. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons? 

I'd love to connect with readers at: 
Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author
Twitter: https://twitter.com/browncarole212
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown

My Thoughts ~

Early WWII sets the stage for an intriguing story of suspense and mystique. A Cincinnati boarding house is inhabited by a cast of colorful and diverse characters with varied personalities. A father and his three daughters run the household with gatherings around the piano and a time of socializing every evening. The most recent resident is a pastor with a secret mission, working with the government to uncover a plot to steal plans for a new type of ammunition.

This is a classic 1940s scenario that brings to mind all of the memories from that era in time. On US home turf the war revolves around the residents who share the same address, but that's where the similarities end. This is a lively, fast-paced adventure that gives away no secrets, takes the reader on a few tangents, and produces a dollop of angst and a tidbit of comedy. The list of characters seems endless, varied and perplexing, and at times a lot to absorb, but there's never a dull moment in this dramatization. This is a treasure to enjoy!

Disclaimer: Thanks to the generosity of the author, I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

"The Fruitcake Challenge"

Christmas Traditions Series

by Carrie Fancett Pagels

A Tale from Northern Michigan 4 stars

Description

When new lumberjack, Tom Jeffries, tells the camp cook, Jo Christy, that he’ll marry her if she can make a fruitcake, “as good as better than the one my mother makes,” she rises to the occasion. After all, he’s the handsomest, smartest, and strongest axman her camp-boss father has ever had in his camp—and the cockiest. And she intends to bring this lumberjack down a notch or three by refusing his proposal. The fruitcake wars are on! 

This book can be purchased at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

Biography

Carrie Fancett Pagels Ph.D. is an award-winning, best-selling, and multi-published Christian historical romance author. Carrie was a psychologist for twenty-five years. Married for twenty-seven years with two children. Carrie resides in Virginia’s Historic Triangle and enjoys reading, traveling and researching. 

Carrie Fancett Pagels Ph.D. (www.carriefancettpagels.com) “Hearts Overcoming Through Time,” is the Amazon bestselling Christian historical romance author of The Fruitcake Challenge (September, 2014) and Return to Shirley Plantation: A Civil War Romance (2013). Her short story, “Snowed In,” appears in Guidepost Books’ A Christmas Cup of Cheer (2013). 

My Thoughts ~

"The Fruitcake Challenge" discloses the late 1800s tale of a family logging camp and the people whose livelihood depends upon the magnificent white pines known to Michigan, both upper and lower peninsulas. These massive forests were cut for use in building growing communities. 

The new axman to the camp poses a challenge to the daughter of the camp's owner. If she could make a fruitcake that was as good as his mother's he would ask her to marry him.

This is a sweet story of family, faith and relationships between family and friends, loss and hope. It's a warm telling of a group of people working hand in hand toward the same goals. I could easily envision the area, and could feel the icy chill from the Great Lakes.

There is both a serious thread throughout this novella that reaches the heart, and a touch of humor that warms the soul. I'd like to have seen this book developed with greater depth and character, but as a novella it was a warm and cozy read. Grab a copy of this short book and enjoy with a pot of tea or a cup of hot cocoa!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

"The Story Keeper"

by Lisa Wingate

 Intriguing & Emotive!

Description

When successful New York editor Jen Gibbs discovers a decaying slush-pile manuscript on her desk, she has no idea that the story of Sarra, a young mixed-race woman trapped in Appalachia at the turn of the twentieth century, will both take her on a journey and change her forever. Happy with her life in the city, and at the top of her career with a new job at Vida House Publishing, Jen has left her Appalachian past and twisted family ties far behind. But the search for the rest of the manuscript, and Jen?s suspicions about the identity of its unnamed author, will draw her into a mystery that leads back to the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains . . . and quite possibly through the doors she thought she had closed forever.

Order The Story Keeper

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About the author

Lisa Wingate is a former journalist, inspirational speaker, and the author of over twenty mainstream fiction novels, including the national bestseller, Tending Roses, now in its nineteenth printing. She is a seven-time ACFW Carol award nominee, a Christy Award nominee, an Oklahoma Book Award finalist, and a two-time Carol Award winner. Her novels are known for taking on gritty subjects while offering redemptive and uplifting themes. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. More information about Lisa's novels can be found at www.Lisawingate.com or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/LisaWingateAuthorPage?fref=ts

My Thoughts ~

Shortly after beginning her career with a new publishing house, Jen discovers a mysterious, old, partial manuscript on the corner of her desk that defies explanation. After reading these first chapters she is determined to find the elusive author in order to publish the book in its entirety. The owner of Vida House Publishing makes arrangements for her to travel to the community where the suspected enigmatic author resides. Her past converges with the present as she discovers herself in the Appalachian community where she grew up.

"The Story Keeper" is a mystifying, poignant story within a story that evokes numerous emotions as the story of the protagonist's childhood unravels, and the events described in an old manuscript take her on a journey that is esoteric and compelling. The intertwining of the stories interwoven in this masterful novel are intriguing and revealing. The descriptive elements are picturesque, descriptive to the point that visions of the Appalachian mountains and the glory contained within come alive with the beauty of the terrain, waterfalls and streams. The characters presented are colorful, diverse and distinctive. 

This story moves at a pace that leaves no room for boredom. I discovered emotional connections throughout this story, told with depth and sensitivity. Lisa Wingate has once again created a deeply moving and entertaining story filled with mystery, intrigue and ethereal qualities. I highly recommend "The Story Keeper!" I was completely engrossed in this creative story within a story.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network's For Readers Only program in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

"The Matchmaker"

The Amish Classics Book 2

by Sarah Price

Review & GIVEAWAY!

 Emma's Consequences!

Description

When Emma’s interference in her friends’

lives backfires, will the consequences

be more than she bargained for?

Emma Weaver is twenty-one years old and has found a passion for playing

matchmaker with her friends.  Her neighbor, Gideon King, warns her about

interfering in people’s lives, but she disregards his advice and plans to set up

Paul, the son of the bishop, with her friend Hannah.
 

But when Paul misinterprets Emma’s attention, believing she has feelings

for him, he begins asking her to ride in his buggy after Sunday singings and

shows up at her house for Friday evening visits.  As she tries to repair the

damage that’s been done and mend the hearts that have been broken, she

finds herself in trouble with the community.  Will she learn her lesson and

stop meddling in the affairs of others?  Will she find a love of her own?

This book can be purchased at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Biography

The author of over 25 novels, Sarah Price brings her Anabaptist roots and over 25 years experience with the Amish to her books, many of which have been Amazon Top 100 Bestsellers (Plain Fame, Plain Change, Amish Faith, & others). 

Initially, she published as an Indie author, but now publishes Realms, an imprint of Charisma House and Waterfall Press, an imprint of Brilliance Publishing. Her first book for Realms, First Impressions: An Amish Adaptation of Pride and Prejudice was released in May 2014 and debuted in the ECPA Christian Fiction Top 25 Bestseller List in June 2014.

Visit the author's website and blog at http://www.sarahpriceauthor.com. 
Like her Facebook page at http://facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.
Follow her on Twitter @SarahPriceAmish and Instagram @SarahPriceAuthor.

My Thoughts ~

Emma's idea of helping others is a rare gift to the elderly Amish women she visits weekly, and she is highly praised for her godly and generous spirit. Devoted to her aging father, Emma decided that marriage is not for her, but her penchant for matchmaking is meddlesome if not calamitous. 

I thoroughly enjoyed Emma's zest for life and her positive outlook. There were moments when I'd like to have given her the evil eye, but I perceived Emma as an energetic, enthusiastic young woman whose motives are admirable, for the most part. As for the other situations she creates for herself and others...... well, let's leave it at that.

Set in rural Pennsylvania Amish country, Sarah Price paints a clear and vivid portrait of the Amish community, and the close-knit relationships that the Amish share. Not all is painted as perfect, as the Amish are human and struggle with many of the issues we all share. Very familiar with the Northern Indiana Amish communities, I was easily transported to this Pennsylvania Amish setting, and felt right at home with the author's extensive knowledge regarding the Amish culture. 

The characters depicted in "The Matchmaker" are colorful, realistic and very well described. The events throughout this highly enjoyable novel provide a myriad of emotions! I thoroughly enjoyed this unpredictable tale created as an Amish version of Jane Austen's "Emma." A word of warning for those of you about to read this amusing and entertaining book, don't waste your time attempting to sleep. I simply couldn't put the book down! I was thoroughly engrossed until the very last page! Pick up a copy and enjoy!

Disclaimer: I purchased a copy of this book for my own reading pleasure. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

CONTEST GUIDELINES: Please leave a comment and your email address using [at] and [dot] to protect your email address. Giveaways are limited to residents of the continental US only, please. I am not responsible for loss or damage through the postal service. Winners have one week to claim their prizes. Thank you so much for visiting my blog! I appreciate all of your comments!

Optional: For additional chances to win this giveaway, share this contest through either Twitter or Facebook, and sign up to follow my blog. Please let me know what you did for extra chances to win. Deadline for this giveaway is Friday, 2-13-2015.

"The Advocate"

by Randy Singer

 Powerful!

Description

At the trial of Christ, Theophilus, brilliant young assessore raised in the Roman aristocracy, stands behind Pontius Pilate and whispers, “Offer to release Barabbas.” The strategy backfires, and Theophilus never forgets the sight of an innocent man unjustly suffering the worst of all possible deaths—Roman crucifixion.

When he returns to Rome, Theophilus must prove himself in the legal ranks of the Roman Empire. He endures the backstabbing intrigue of the treason trials and the attempts of a cruel tyrant to control the woman he loves. But his struggle for revenge leaves a stain on both the empire and his own troubled soul.

Ultimately, he will face the most notorious Caesar, defending the man Paul in Nero’s deranged court. Can Theophilus mount a defense that will keep another innocent man from execution?

The Advocate’s first trial altered the course of history. His last will change the fate of an empire.

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Parable

Biography

Randy Singer is a critically acclaimed author and veteran trial attorney. He has penned nine legal thrillers, including his award-winning debut novel "Directed Verdict." In addition to his law practice and writing, Randy serves as a teaching pastor for Trinity Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He calls it his "Jekyll and Hyde thing"--part lawyer, part pastor. He also teaches classes in advocacy and ethics at Regent Law School and serves on the school's Board of Visitors. He and his wife, Rhonda, live in Virginia Beach. They have two grown children. Visit his Web site at www.randysinger.net or meet him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/randydsinger?fref=ts&ref=br_tf

My Thoughts ~

"He defied an emperor and inspired a faith." The Advocate is historical fiction, the story of Theophilus, a character about whom very little is known. As a fourteen-year-old Theophilus suffers crucifixion at the hands of his peers, leading to his education continuing in Greece. Through his association with Pontias Pilate he was instrumental in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, a decision he later regrets and spends the rest of his life in remorse and atonement. Political and legalistic protocol from that time in history is the focus throughout this well researched book. 

Incorporating historical fact with fiction Randy Singer has created a powerful novel that is unforgettable. This book is not for the faint of heart. There is graphic detailing of violence and bloodshed, an open and realistic portrayal of the life and times. Detailing and historical accuracy reveal the author's in-depth research in order to bring this book to fruition. Details in legalism and the customs from this period in history are compelling. This is a tough book to digest, with much to absorb, but well worth the time to read and ponder the events from that period of time.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network's For Readers Only program in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.