When The Heart Heals (Sisters at Heart Book #2) by Ann Shorey

5.0 out of 5 stars Heartrending Novel!

Book Description
Courageous and unconventional, Rosemary Saxon served as a nurse during the Civil War, a service that has caused most women in town to regard her as unfeminine and downright vulgar. Although she would like to put her experiences as a nurse behind her, she must support herself. She takes a position with Dr. Elijah Stewart and a mutual attraction begins to develop. But when a sophisticated woman arrives in town claiming to be Elijah's fiancée, a heartbroken Rosemary decides to leave Noble Springs and start fresh. Can Elijah convince her of the mystery woman's deception before he loses her forever?

With tenderness and grace, Ann Shorey invites readers back to the town of Noble Springs, Missouri, for an engrossing story of love's tentative first steps and fragile future in the face of opposition. Readers will find in Rosemary a sympathetic but strong woman determined to thrive in a world that doesn't always understand.

Biography
Ann Shorey is the author of Where Wildflowers Bloom, The Edge of Light, The Promise of Morning, and The Dawn of a Dream. She has also published selections in the Cup of Comfort series and in Chicken Soup for the Grandma's Soul. Ann and her husband make their home in southwestern Oregon.










My Review ~

Merciful to wounded Civil War soldiers, Rosemary Saxon became a nurse. Considered a filthy and disgusting job, unfit for a woman, Rosemary was ousted from her home. Her compassion compelled her to help others in need, in spite of her own limited resources. After the war she had moved to Noble Springs, Missouri where she eventually sought employment with Dr. Elijah Stewart who had set up practice in the small town after the Civil War. Refusing to join his father's medical practice in Chicago, Dr. Stewart's aim was to distance himself from his father's demands. Elijah's medical standards were scrupulous and honorable, contrary to his father's unethical standards. 

Threatened by a local menace for preparing herbal remedies only substantiated Rosemary's stubborn and independent nature, but potential suitors repeatedly came to her aid. Attracted to Dr. Stewart, Rosemary had to quell a relationship developing with another local gentleman. Her hopes for love and family appear to be just a dream, but is there hope for happiness in her future?

Family dynamics play a key role throughout this novel. Broken relationships and misunderstandings between family members are broached with inventive and creative skill. The characters throughout this novel are colorful, realistic, down-to-earth humans who struggle with emotional conflicts and physical assaults that are common to all of us. Faith is a strong motivator throughout this novel, and enhances the story very effectively. The physical details are picturesque and beautifully depicted with vivid imagery. Ann Shorey has written a very touching, absorbing and remarkable story. This is a very entertaining, heartrending and eloquently scripted novel!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through BookFun.org in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. Many thanks to Fred St. Laurent and Revell Books for their participation in the For Readers Only program through BookFun.org.

Fear Has A Name by Creston Mapes

5.0 out of 5 stars Compelling Suspense!

Book Description

Publication Date: June 1, 2013 | Series: The Crittendon Files

How Far Would He Go To Keep Them Safe?

It was more than a break-in. More than a stalking. It was personal. When a stalker targets his family, journalist Jack Crittendon must uncover who the person is and what his motives are--if he is to protect the ones he loves. It will lead Crittendon into a world of behind-closed-door secrets and faith gone awry, as does his investigation of a missing pastor, whose apparent suicide is more than it appears.

Each move Crittendon makes weaves him tighter and tighter into a web of lies, greed, hypocrisy, sin, and danger. He believed he'd never give in to fear. But that was before. And holding on to his faith won't be easy. Nor will keeping his family safe, and ending the terror. Because that might require him to step over lines he never dared to cross.

Fans of Ted Dekker, Davis Bunn, Jerry Jenkins and Frank Peretti will love Creston's novels!

Biography

Creston Mapes is the best-selling author of Nobody, Dark Star, and Full Tilt. Creston's new thriller series, The Crittendon Files, will launch June 1, 2013, with the release of Fear Has a Name, which is already receiving stellar reviews. His early years as a reporter inspire many of his novels

A journalist, copywriter, and editor, Creston works from his home-office in Atlanta for some of the nation's top media companies, Christian ministries, and nationally-recognized corporations, including Chick-fil-A, Coke, ABC-TV, and The Weather Channel. In addition to Creston's novels and freelance writing, he has ghostwritten and edited seven non-fiction titles.

Creston is married to his hometown sweetheart, Patty. They have a close-knit family, with four great children, several pets, and a growing number of cars.

www.CrestonMapes.com

www.Twitter.com/crestonmapes

www.Facebook.com/creston.mapes

My Review ~

In this multi-layered suspense novel two families share common bonds that are interwoven by circumstances that overlap throughout the narrative. The entire essence of the Crittendon family is transformed into an intense atmosphere of anxiety and chaos by a stranger who forces his way into their home and lives, shaking them to the core. Jack Crittendon, a news reporter, was assigned to investigate the sudden disappearance of Evan McDaniel, senior pastor at a local church. A church publication reported his disappearance as being linked to missing medications and a suicide note. Pastor McDaniel's history of depression becomes the focus of attention regarding his disappearance. The McDaniel family is thrust into confusion and distress regarding the circumstances surrounding the mysterious absence of Pastor Evan, his wife insisting that he was not suicidal. What actual events led to the pastor's sudden disappearance, and who is stalking Jack Crittendon's wife?

The first in The Crittendon Files series, this suspense-filled drama is made remarkable by unforeseen events keeping the reader absorbed and captivated! The situations and predicaments that flare are totally absorbing, replete with an abundance of energy. Faith is a recurrent theme throughout and ultimately leads to peace when all else fails. Creston Mapes has produced a dramatic unfolding of events that capture the reader's attention and lead to numerous bizarre yet inspirational situations. This book is suspense filled, dramatic, compelling, inspirational and impressive.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through Wynn-Wynn Media for the express purpose of my honest review. All stated opinions are mine and I received no monetary compensation for this review.

Bachelor Buttons - Murray Pura's American Civil War Series - Cry Of Freedom - Volume 3 by Kathleen L. Maher

5.0 out of 5 stars Well Done!

Book Description

The daughter of immigrants who fled the Irish Potato Famine, Rose Meehan longs for a better life than the tenements of New York City. Courted by two men--a young doctor who represents material security, and a poor violin instructor who has captured her heart--she must choose between a life of advantage-grabbing or a life of faith. When Manhattan explodes in mob rule following Lincoln's unpopular draft, the heroic action of one suitor brings provision for those she loves, and reveals God's plan. 

Biography

Kathleen L. Maher’s novella Bachelor Buttons releases through Helping Hands Press in May, 2013 as part of a Civil War sesquicentennial collection. Her manuscript Closer than a Brother won the historical category of ACFW’s Genesis contest in 2012. Her work has finaled in several writing contest since 2009. She is represented by Terry Burns of Hartline Literary Agency. 
Kathleen blogs about New York State history and enjoys reading and writing reviews for historical CBA releases. She and her husband live in a 100-year-old farmhouse in upstate NY with their three children. Two rescued Newfoundland dogs and a tuxedo cat complete their family.

My Review ~

Kathleen Maher has woven a poignant narrative based on events that took place in Manhattan at a volatile time in American history, the Civil War. The draft had been instituted which affected all young men except freed slaves who were exempt from fighting the war, and those with money who found ways around the draft. Bitterness and anger built among those fearing the draft, which led to rioting and violence in the city. A successful doctor and a poor Irishman vie for the attention of one beautiful young Irish woman, and the details of this love triangle contain numerous elements including colorful characters, a bit of humor, and some seriously intense issues. 

Drawing upon actual events involving her ancestors brings a very personal element to the characters in this novella. This presentation is authentic, descriptive and well detailed, and a great deal of information is incorporated into this brief story. The author has done an outstanding job researching her material. Characters are strong and the story is told with wonderful detailing of relationships and the incidents that took place during this period of time.

Home Run by Travis Thrasher


5.0 out of 5 stars Impressive!

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 2013

Baseball star Cory Brand knows how to win. But off the field, he’s spiraling out of control. Haunted by old wounds and regrets, his future seems as hopeless as his past.

Until one moment—one mistake—changes everything. To save his career, Cory must go back to the town where it all began. His plan is simple: coach the local baseball team, complete a recovery program, and get out as fast as possible. Instead, he runs headfirst into memories he can’t escape ... and the love he left behind.

Faced with a second chance he never expected, Cory embarks on a journey of faith, transformation and redemption. And along the way, he discovers a powerful truth: no one is beyond the healing of God.

A novel based on the major motion picture starring Vivica A. Fox and Scott Elrod, Home Run is an inspirational story of the hope and freedom God offers each of us.

www.HomeRunTheMovie.com

Biography

Travis Thrasher is the author of over twenty works of fiction in a variety of genres. He has collaborated with musicians, filmmakers, and pastors. His stories all feature broken characters on journeys toward redemption. Upcoming books for 2013 include the novelization of Home Run and Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not? co-authored with the band Thompson Square.

Travis and his wife, Sharon, live in a suburb of Chicago and have three daughters. For more information on Travis, go to www.travisthrasher.com

My Review ~

As a youngster Cory Brand was at his father's mercy. During his father's drunken rages he'd pitch baseballs at Cory, and Cory learned to hit or be hit, a vicious game his father played. Cory's first love was baseball, and he was unwavering in his quest to become a major league baseball player. Leaving his hometown and his pregnant girlfriend behind, Cory Brand made a big name for himself. What he hadn't counted on was the loneliness he'd encounter off the field. On the field he was everyone's hero, but when alone he couldn't ease the emptiness he experienced. He attempted to fill the void with beautiful women and booze, and alcohol became his best friend. A bad move on the field got him suspended from the team and back in his hometown, relegated to an 8-week 12-step program of recovery from his alcohol addiction, and coaching Little League baseball. His goal was to steamroll through the 8 weeks and get himself back in the spotlight. 

Finding himself in a vulnerable place back in his hometown where the ghosts of his past haunted him, Cory walked the walk to his Celebrate Recovery meetings, and spent his free time drinking himself into oblivion back in his hotel room. To Cory's surprise he was sharing coaching responsibilities for his hometown Little League team with his ex-girlfriend, Emma. Cory was a hometown hero, but Emma didn't share the same feelings she once had for him. Her life had moved forward into a happy marriage and the birth of her son, Tyler. Ten years of happiness ended abruptly when her husband was killed while serving in the military. Still raw with grief Emma wasn't comfortable coaching her team with Cory Brand, big shot who was addicted to alcohol. The past was still too painful. As Cory attempted to fake his way through the battle with his demons his life was slipping further and further into the pit of despair. 

Travis Thrasher has written a powerful story of the suffering that accompanies addiction, and the battle to overcome the despair through seeking God's redemption and healing. Numerous struggles are encountered by the characters in this story, and Mr. Thrasher has developed very strong and realistic characterizations made believable by the personal battles encountered throughout this book. Home Run delivers a strong message of the ability to overcome the affects of addiction in all its shapes and forms through the power of faith, love and redemption.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the Readers Only Group at BookFun.org and David C. Cook Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. No monetary compensation was received as a result of my review. Thank you to Fred St Laurent, BookFun.org and David C. Cook Publishing. 

The Christian Alphabet: Teaching Children About Jesus, Prayer, and the Bible by Tracy Sands


4.0 out of 5 stars Best Use: School-Aged Children

Publisher's Description

Do you know your Christian ABC's?

The Christian Alphabet Book is a unique, visual, and enjoyable way to learn the basics of Christianity. "Love," the dove from above, guides you from A to Z with special Biblical lessons of love for all ages.

What is more important than a firm foundation of faith?

Similar to learning to read from knowing the regular ABC's, one will be inspired to know, love, and serve God by learning The Christian Alphabet.

Share the Gospel with your Children.

Jesus told Peter, in the gospel of John, to "feed my lambs." The Christian Alphabet Book will help all teachers of children feed their little lambs spiritually. Give those you love this book to help spread the Good News about God's everlasting love and life.

The Christian Alphabet Book is more than just a children's book. It is a book that families can cherish together while sharing its timeless messages that give Glory to God.

http://thechristianalphabet.com/the-book

About The Author

It came from Him, not me.
The Lord inspired me in 1999 one evening at a church choir event. As I sat in the back row, listening to the awesome Christian music, in the dark, an incredible urge to draw came over me. Being an art teacher for 10 years, I had experienced this feeling before, but NEVER had it been so intense. I 'happened' to have a pen in my pocket, but the only paper around was the program that I got as I walked in the door. In the empty space of the margins I sketched like crazy. I felt like I would pop if I didn't get the ideas out of my brain right then! I will never forget that feeling. I had never felt so peaceful yet energized at the same time. God was just getting started with me! Over the course of 9 months we created the Christian ABC's.
Each letter is educational and deep in meaning to me. In them you will find close to 100 ancient and modern images used in the past 2000 years to express the Christian Faith. I have hopes of sharing all of the basic aspects of Christianity with those who really look into The Christian Alphabet.
- Tracy Sands


My Review ~

The Christian Alphabet Book was written as a visual method for teaching children the basic principles of Christianity through the letters of the alphabet, using traditional artful symbols representing Christianity. Two pages are devoted to each letter of the alphabet. The left-sided page teaches a basic lesson featuring a Christian word that begins with the featured letter of the alphabet. This page also provides an activity for the child through a dove called "Love, the dove from above" (representing the Holy Spirit,) and ends with a simple prayer. The right-sided page features the letter of the alphabet, scripture associated with the letter, and an activity called "Seek and you shall find" which encourages the child to search for the symbols creating each of the letters. The explanation of each of the symbols composing the letter is included in the back of the book in "The Christian Alphabet Symbology" section. Even the table of contents is useful in discovering a lesson in Christianity, including a scripture focusing on that particular lesson. Four songs are included in this book, helpful in teaching children about Christian love and actions.

The artwork in this book is very creative and colorful, certain to capture the attention of a child. The lessons are pertinent to the words represented by the focused letters, and teach concrete lessons in an easily understandable approach. Bible verses are provided for children to memorize, and are applicable to the lesson provided. Tracy Sands has done an outstanding job in using the letters of the alphabet as a teaching tool for Christian living. Her artwork is very creative and colorful. This book would be best used for school-aged children, early elementary school ages and above. The concepts and lessons are not comprehensible by toddlers or preschoolers learning the basic alphabet, but are a valuable tool for children who have already learned the alphabet and are age appropriate for the content.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and an accompanying CD from Love the Dove Publishing through BookCrash for the express purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.

A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund

5.0 out of 5 stars This Is No Fairy Tale!

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1, 2013

A New Historical Romance from Fan-Favorite Jody Hedlund

Recently widowed Annalisa Werner has the feeling her husband was murdered but can't prove it. Alone with her young daughter in 1881 Michigan, she has six months left to finish raising the money needed to pay back the land contract her husband purchased, and the land is difficult to toil by herself. She needs a husband. With unmarried men scarce, her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Annalisa a groom.

For nobleman Carl von Reichart, the blade of the guillotine is his fate. He's been accused and convicted of a serious crime he didn't commit, and his only escape is to flee to a small German community in Michigan where he'll be safe. He secures a job on Annalisa's farm but bumbles through learning about farming and manual labor.

Annalisa senses that Carl is harboring a secret about his past, yet she finds herself drawn to him anyway. He's gentle, kind, and romantic--unlike any of the men she's ever known. He begins to restore her faith in the ability to love--but her true groom is still on his way. And time is running out on them all.

Biography

Jody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling author of inspirational historical romances.

As a busy mama-writer, she has the wonderful privilege of teaching her crew of 5 children at home. In between grading math papers and giving spelling tests, she occasionally does a load of laundry and washes dishes. When she's not busy being a mama, you can find her in front of her laptop working on another of her page-turning stories.

She loves reading almost as much as she loves writing, especially when it also involves chocolate and coffee.

My Review ~

"A Noble Groom" is set in 1880 on the eastern side of Michigan's lower peninsula, near the shores of Lake Huron. Fleeing Germany in search of a better life, numerous immigrants hoped to work in the mines in Michigan's upper peninsula, but upon discovering how cold winters were that far north they remained in lower peninsula Michigan where land was cheap. Clearing the land and making it ready for planting crops was hard labor, but just owning a piece of property was important to these immigrants who came from nothing in the Old Country. Annalisa Werner's husband was killed, leaving her with a 2-year-old daughter, and pregnant with her second child. Her marriage had been unhappy, and as she told her daughter fairy tales she frequently dreamed about love and happiness in a marriage, wondering if such a thing existed. When Carl Richards arrived in Michigan from Germany, Annalisa's father mistook him for a distant cousin that he had requested as a husband for Annalisa. When Carl informed him that he was a teacher, and not Annalisa's cousin, he was hired to work Annalisa's farm until her prospective husband arrived from Germany. 

Jody Hedlund has researched her Michigan history well, and has created a very poignant story of extremely oppressive times for the immigrants who came from Germany with virtually nothing but their work ethics and the hope for a better life. Marriage was a matter of necessity in order to produce children to assist in working the farms. Women had no value aside from their childbearing capabilities, and love was a rarity. Strong personalities are portrayed with detail, leaving the reader affected by these characters. The landscape is described in pictorial detail, creating images that enhance the issues described in the lives of these peasants. It appears that God has forsaken these people through harsh and significantly difficult times, but their faith remains strong, and hope prevails. The attention to detail in this book is magnificent! Jody Hedlund is an extremely talented and masterful author who creates a deeply moving and emotionally consuming story of struggle, survival, faith and love. Impressive!

Disclaimer: A copy of this book was provided by Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.

The Cat That God Sent by Jim Kraus

5.0 out of 5 stars Never Underestimate the Influence of a Cat!

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1, 2013

Jake Wilkerson, a disillusioned young pastor who is an expert at hiding his fears, takes on a new assignment at a small rural church in Coudersport, Pennsylvania--which is a far piece from anywhere and full of curiously odd and eccentric people. His first day on the job, he is adopted by Petey--a cat of unknown origins and breed--but a very sentient cat who believes that he is on a mission from God to redeem Jake and bring him back to the truth. Jake must confront his doubts early on when he meets Emma Grainger, a single woman and a veterinarian who dismisses all Christians as "those people." Then, Tassy, a young runaway with a secret, arrives at the door of the church looking for a place of refuge. How does Jake deal with this runaway and his interest in Dr. Grainger? More importantly, can Jake rekindle his faith? Petey does his best to lead all people to the truth, in a most subtle and feline way.

About The Author

Jim Kraus grew up in Western Pennsylvania and is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh. He attended the Paris-American Academy in 1971 and has spent the last twenty years as a vice-president of a major Christian publishing house. He has written more than 20 books and novels (many with his wife, Terri) including the best-selling The Dog That Talked to God (Abingdon Press, 2012). His book, The Silence, was named as one of the top five releases in 2004 by the Christian Book Review website. He is also an award-winning photographer. He and his wife and 14-year-old son live outside of Chicago with a sweet miniature schnauzer and an ill-tempered Siberian cat.

My Review ~

Pastor Jake Wilkerson's faltering faith has cost him his job and his fiance. He takes a position as pastor of a small church in rural Pennsylvania, hopeful his past won't catch up with him. Greeted by a stray cat who gifts him with a dead mouse upon his arrival, Jake moves into the parsonage, adopted and accompanied by his new and very vocal feline friend. A wounded paw necessitates a visit to a veterinarian who insists the cat needs a name in order for her to treat his wound. The cat is dubbed Petey. Jake is also visited by a young woman who has nowhere to go, and seeks his advice, complicating his life further. On Jake's first Sunday as pastor Petey slips into the sanctuary and makes himself at home on a chair on the platform near Pastor Jake, causing the congregation to burst into laughter. As word spreads throughout the community regarding the cat who attends church, Jake's congregation begins to grow from week to week, bringing people together in a common bond.

This very entertaining story of three unique individuals hiding from themselves and the issues that plague them are impacted by one very unique stray cat. Petey talks in various cat sounds and plays a very important role in affecting everyone who encounters him, including numerous eccentric and colorful characters in Pastor Jake's congregation. Petey is confident in his role as a godsend to those in his life, and uses his "voice" to affect those around him in some profound ways. The fact that the cat talks in human language throughout the book is both amusing and entertaining. Jim Kraus has used a lovable cat to reach the individuals in this story, aiding them in their quest for forgiveness, renewed faith and a much-needed support system. You don't need to be a "cat person" to enjoy this wonderful story, but cat lovers everywhere will thoroughly enjoy it!

Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by Abingdon Press for the express purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was given no monetary compensation for this review.

Paige Torn: A Paige Alder Novel by Erynn Mangum

 Paige Can't Say No! 

Description

Paige Alder simply doesn't have time for all this; between work at the adoption agency, volunteering with the church youth group, helping her friend plan an anniversary party and a wedding, and being the go-to girl for everyone who needs a favor, she's lucky to grab a cheese stick for dinner. She can't remember the last time she pulled out her crafting supplies or spent time digging into God's Word, and she certainly doesn't have time for romance. But when handsome Tyler comes along, he forces her to rethink whether staying busy for God is the same as spending time with Him. Tyler seems to be the only one that Paige can say no to, but maybe he is the one that she should be saying yes to.

About this author

Erynn Mangum is the author of the popular Lauren Holbrook (Miss Match, ReMatch, and Match Point) and Maya Davis (Cool Beans, Latte Daze, and Double Shot) series of books and the recent novel Sketchy Behavior. Her writing can also be found on her personal blog and on Scribble Chicks, a blog for young writers. To find out more about Erynn, go to www.erynnmangum.com.





My Review ~

Paige Torn is a busy girl, working full-time for an adoption agency, teaching Sunday school, working with the girls in youth group, and volunteering for various other church activities when asked. Her best friend recently became engaged, and wants Paige involved in all of the planning for her fall wedding. Paige is already helping plan a wedding anniversary party for her friend's parents, and making all the arrangements for the adoption agency's annual fund raiser. There's a new guy working with the boys in youth group at her church, and he'd like to get to know Paige, but Paige has no time for him. She's lucky to grab a string cheese for dinner! Her inability to say "no" to anyone is taking its toll.

This is a sweet story of young people growing up and finding their places in life. Paige has not learned to say "no" to anyone yet, and the stress is getting to her. She has even missed out on her bible reading and devotion time. It's a trap that many of us get caught up in, and being a people pleaser comes very easily to many of us. We want to help others, sometimes at our own expense, but as Paige is about to learn, she has to draw the line somewhere. I enjoyed this easy read. It was light and enjoyable with a great Christian influence and self examination and prioritization are valuable lessons.

Disclaimer: I was given an advanced reader copy of this book by Wynn-Wynn Media for the express purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine and I was given no monetary compensation for this review.

Featuring Amy Lillard, author of "Saving Gideon" and "Katie's Choice" which releases May 1st

Interview with Amy Lillard ~

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

I am a wife, a mother, and a bonafide Southern Belle. I grew up in Mississippi, but moved to Oklahoma just after high school. Two short years later, I met and married my husband. We’ve been together ever since. We have an awesome son, two ‘sweet’ cats, and a lazy beagle.

How did you become interested in writing?

I had to write a descriptive paragraph in the 7^th grade. The teacher praised my use of alliteration, and I was hooked! Of course, at the time I had no idea what alliteration was and had to look it up, but I was tickled all the same. I knew that I had found the one thing in life I wanted to do most.

What compelled you to write Saving Gideon?

I started Saving Gideon at the suggestion of my agent. Am I glad I listened!  Saving Gideon is a composite of many of my favorite types of stories. I love a tortured hero and the idea that love can heal all. Take that concept and mix in the ‘fish out of water’ story of a Dallas socialite, add the sheer charm of the Amish way of life, and that’s Saving Gideon.

How did Katie’s Choice come about?

Katie’s Choice had originally been planned as the third book in the series. But when I starting digging into the stories I knew that hers needed to be told first. (No, I can’t really explain why without giving away too much about Gabriel’s Bride).  But keep in mind that I’m a romance writer first and foremost. When looking at finding a beau for Katie, I knew I needed the “love triangle”. And what better way than for her to have the love of two very different men: Zane Carson, worldly  reporter used to living life on the edge, and Samuel Beachy, the bishop’s son returning after a very extended rumspringa in order to finally take his  place at Katie’s side.

What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your books?

Love heals all wounds. But isn’t that the theme to most all romances? Okay, so love heals all wounds, and God will be there to show you the way to love. Even when you think you don’t need it (or deserve it) at all.

Now for the fun questions - quirky facts about Amy Lillard:

Birthday? September 20

Favorite color? Purple…no wait, green. No, pink. Purple, definitely purple. What was the question again?

Favorite animal? giraffes

Siblings? 3 sisters and brother

Favorite drink? Diet Dr. Pepper

If you were a jelly bean flavor, what flavor would you be? My favorite is Buttered Popcorn, but I would be raspberry creme

Favorite dish? Anything Mexican

Ice Cream flavor? Anything but strawberry

Favorite Season? Summer

Dream Vacation? Anywhere with a beach

Favorite Place to Write? Wherever I happen to be

Cat or Dog? Both!

Favorite Candy Bar? Heath Bar

Favorite guilty pleasure? Brownies and ice cream

What books are currently on your nightstand?

Falling to Pieces by Vannetta Chapman and True Grit by Charles Portis

Favorite vacation spot or place you’d like to visit but haven’t yet?

I want to go to Lancaster County one day and I’d love to visit the Amish in Holmes County. And there’s always the Eiffel Tower. I’ve been obsessed with it my entire life. J

What’s next for you?

I just signed a three book Amish romance series that takes place in Oklahoma, this time in a Beachy community. I’m really excited to showcase this order of the Amish which is the classification for the Amish that currently live in Oklahoma.

Where can we find you on the web?

www.amywritesromance.com

Twitter: @AmyWritesRomnce

Facebook: Amy Lillard ~ Author

Blog: www.amywritesromance.com/blog/

Describe your writing in three words.

Hope, humor, and grace

What has been your highlight of your career to this point?

Seeing my name of the cover of a book that I love is a thrill that is not easily topped.

What has been your favorite fan letter or fan comment ever?

I had a reader put me in league with Beverly Lewis. *That* was a great moment for me, but I am continually amazed at the depth of devotion from the readers of Amish fiction. Everyone has been so gracious and supportive. I love my readers!

Thank you, Amy, for taking the time to answer some questions about yourself. I've enjoyed working with you on your Street Team for "Katie's Choice," and I wish you all the best!