Christopher Columbus

Book Details
Author: Clark B. Hinckley
Release Date: August 2014
Publisher: Deseret Book
Genre: Historical

This book is FASCINATING!

As "author Clark B. Hinckley reminds us, the Book of Mormon prophet Nephi suggests that Columbus stands out as "a man among the Gentiles." In fact, Lehi and Nephi describe only two specific individuals in their prophecy of the latter-day restoration of the gospel: Christopher Columbus and Joseph Smith."

So if Joseph Smith's name is had for good and evil, does it surprise you that Christopher Columbus has been brought into question?

This book clearly shows through his own journals that Christopher Columbus felt inspired by the Holy Ghost.

He felt prompted to sail the seas and bring the truth to the new world.

You will read of:

* His struggles in getting the sailing approved

* His preparations

* His first crossing and then his subsequent crossings

* His shipwreck

 * His health issues

* And more

I learned more than I ever had through this book.
I was very intrigued by the name Christopher and how it came to be and what it truly means.

We owe a lot to Christopher Columbus.

Expertly written!

Precisely presented!

AMAZON | GOODREADS

About the Author

Clark B. Hinckley is a banker by vocation and a historian by avocation. A director of Zions First National Bank, he earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Brigham Young University and a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from the Harvard Business School. He is a graduate and former faculty member of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking.

A former bishop and stake president, he presided over the Spain Barcelona Mission from 2009 to 2012. He and his wife, Kathleen Hansen Hinckley, have six children and eighteen grandchildren. They have lived in New York City, Michigan, and Arizona. They reside in Salt Lake City and serve in the baptistry of the Salt Lake Temple and teach Sunday School.

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Chariots to Jordan

Book Details
Author: E. James Harrison
Release Date: August 2014
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Genre: Historical Fiction

An AMAZING telling of how one little girl could have moved to one location

Which one military leader was commanded to overtake

Which led the little girl to come into his home as a servant

Who told him of the prophet Elisha

Who could heal his leprosy that he was so frantically trying to hide.

And just why did this little girl believe Elisha could heal her master Naaman?

Because Elisha had miraculously healed her father.

Can Naaman do as Elisha asks?

A beloved Biblical story brought to life with details of daily living

and what the fear of leprosy were really like.

This book is WONDERFUL!
DETAILS told so poetically you feel as if you are really there!
A story we already LOVE, this book will help you UNDERSTAND it even more!
SO. SO. SO. GOOD!

AMAZON | GOODREADS

About the Author

I grew up on the west side of Salt Lake City in a pretty typical family. My dad worked most of his life in a factory, my mom was a homemaker and my three sisters were...sisters! The two older ones were always bossing me around and I always had to give in to my younger sister. (They may not remember it exactly like that, but it's true--really!) A mom and three sisters meant during my preteen years my dad and I would escape whenever we could to the quiet of the mountains and deserts of Utah pursuing my dad's favorite hobby--rockhounding. Saturday's meant trapsing over desolate ground and blasting old cans full of holes with a .22 rifle.

My early teen years were filled with pimples and the clumsy awkwardness of getting to know girls and for the most part, those are years to be forgotten. It was during my high school years that two great things happened in my life. First, I discovered airplanes and boats--two things I thoroughly enjoy to this day. But second, and by far the most important and best thing that's every happened to
me, was I met my wife, Debbie. (That's a picture of her over on the right.) I met her in a geometry class. The teacher sat us alphabetically and I ended up in the desk behind her. Had there still been ink wells in the desks, I'm sure I would have dipped the tips of her long dark hair in the ink in an effort to attract her attention. With no ink I had to satisfy myself with untying the bows made from ribbons that she used to tie back her hair. I succeeded in getting her attention, and ultimately convincing her to marry me, but not for several more years.

After high school there was a year of college (University of Utah) and then two years as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Returning from my missionary responsibilities I shocked everyone--including myself--by being accepted to Brigham Young University. And that's when I first discovered writing. I had no idea what I wanted to be when I "grew up," but the fiancée of one of Debbie's roommates was majoring in public relations. I had no idea what that was, but it sounded fun so from then on I told everyone I was a public relations major. I thought it would be a bunch of back slapping and socializing. Little did I know that English and writing are at the heart of public relations. And the rest, as they say, is history. I ultimately got an Associate degree in public relations and a Bachelor degree in creative writing.

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

How Much Do You Love Me?

Book Details
Author: Paul Mark Tag
Release Date: August 2014
Publisher: Sweetwater Books
Genre: Historical Fiction

This book is BEYOND AMAZING!

SO TOUCHING!
FANTASTIC!

Keiko's family rents a farm from James' family because Keiko's parents are first generation Japanese and therefore cannot own their own land here in America.

And Keiko and James have a secret...they have fallen in love...something almost forbidden.

Now the Japanese have bombed Pearl Harbor...

Keiko's family knows what is coming for their family and the internment that is inevitable.

So Keiko and James decide to marry before James volunteers to fight in World War II.

Now "sixty years later their daughter Kazuko, who was born in the camps, uncovers a secret that could possibly overwhelm the family."

"Discover the very definition of human love and self-sacrifice in this saga of war, mystery, and romance."

SO. SO. SO. GOOD!
DON'T MISS THIS ONE!
The twist in the plot is mind-blowing it is SO INCREDIBLY HEART-TOUCHING!

AMAZON | GOODREADS

About the Author

Paul Mark Tag graduated with multiple degrees in meteorology from Pennsylvania State University and worked for the Naval Research Laboratory as a research scientist for over thirty years before retiring to write fiction. For years prior to retirement, and the following year exclusively, he honed his skills writing short stories. These have been published in StoryBytes, Potpourri, Green’s Magazine, and The Storyteller, as well as The Errant Ricochet: Max Raeburn’s Legacy.In 2005, he self-published his first thriller, Category 5,which took advantage of his knowledge of meteorology and weather modification, followed by Prophecy and White Thaw: The Helheim Conspiracy. With his historical novel How Much Do You Love Me? he has switched genres. He lives with his wife, Becky, in Monterey, California.

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Eastward to Zion

Book Details
Author: Susan Aylworth
Release Date: June 2014
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Genre: Historical Fiction

FASCINATING NARRATIVE!
VERY WELL WRITTEN!

This book is based on Susan's own great-great-grandparents...

And while not everything in the book happened to her family...the events did happen...to real people.

In 1852 a gold rush hit Australia. James Martin was easily persuaded to seek his fortune.

Not wanting the back-breaking work of seeking a treasure James settles down as a merchant.

One day on the dock where he was meeting a shipment he happens to meet Miss Eliza Wells.

Eliza has come to Australia on the ship carrying many mail-order brides...

Although she has not come as a mail-order bride...

She has come to claim the a job at the prosperous Pembroke home.

Smitten from the beginning James seeks out Eliza and asked permission to court her.

The only trouble is...

They have a difference in religion.

At the time that is a BIG DEAL and Eliza fears her soul will be in jeopardy is she should ever marry James.

James can be very persuasive and soon the couple weds.

But deep in each other's heart is the hope that their spouse will convert to 'their church.'

When Mormon missionaries bless and heal their very sick son...

James and Eliza start a journey that will thrust them into an "epic tale of faith...in the midst of intolerance...culminating in a journey that will take them around the world in the pursuit of Zion."

You will read of love and hope, fear and trials, tenderness and bravery, hatred and friendships.

AN ENGAGING BOOK!
SO. SO. SO. GOOD!
DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS ONE!

AMAZON | GOODREADS

About the Author

Susan Aylworth started her first book when she was nine. "It was called Buff, The Proud Stallion. I wrote eight whole pages." For her fifth grade career day, she stated her ambition to become "a rich and famous author." Decades later, she is pleased to have achieved the 'author' part of that goal. A former university professor, she enjoys researching backgrounds and careers for her novels. "It's one way to live many lives all at once."

The property of a protective mutt dog and servant to two spoiled cats, she lives in northern California with her husband of 43 years and their small menagerie. She loves hanging out with her seven children, their perfect-for-them spouses and 21 grandchildren, soon to be 23. When she can't be with her blood family, she hangs with her fictional characters, the children of her mind. She has eleven books available and a 12th scheduled for publication in June 2014.

"I love travel, great music, and good raspberry jam," she says, "and every author loves good reviews." She points out that 4* and 5* reviews on Goodreads.com and Amazon are highly valued in the publishing industry. "You can do every good book a favor by giving it a strong Goodreads review."

"If you enjoy my books, please tell everyone you know: friends, relatives, neighbors, the person who delivers your mail, people you meet in line in the grocery store, everyone!" She welcomes ideas for new books and characters.

"I always love hearing from readers, especially those who relate to the characters in my stories."

 Email * Facebook * Website 

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Upon Destiny's Song

Book Details
Authors: Mike Ericksen and Sage Steadman
Release Date: June 2013
Publisher: Empath Media
Genre: Historical Fiction

Sacrifice, Love, and Courage.

These are the things that the Willie and Martin Handcart company travelers had!

This book is a REMARKABLE telling of one family joining one group that came across one ocean and embarked on one incredible journey.

Your heart will be touched as you read the encounter of the Ole Madsen family.

They "answered the call of the early leaders" to gather to Zion.

A place far away from their homeland of Denmark.

At the time the Saints were crossing the plains with only handcarts as they were easier and faster.

But that also meant the saints had to walk the 1,300 miles and leave behind most of their possessions.

The Madsen family was assigned to the Willie Company...the company that left late in the season, ran out of food rations, and had to endure harsh winter storms.

As author and descendant Mike Ericksen searches for his great-grandmother Marie.

He feels a powerful connection to her as he too is enduring life's trials.

He gains great strength in knowing that we must all make hard decisions and become to our family the "true heroes" that they can look up to.

A BOOK YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT DOWN!
SO. SO. SO. GOOD!
LOVED IT!
The MUSIC CD is BEAUTIFUL!

"Mike Ericksen has previously chronicled the amazing story of his family’s roots through song and speaking engagements at LDS firesides across the country.

Now the engrossing stories of his ancestors and the lessons he’s learned in pursuit of their legacy are finally available in Upon Destiny’s Song.

The kindle version of this book does not come with a music CD."

AMAZON | GOODREADS

About the Authors

Mike Ericksen is a classical guitarist and song-writer. He has performed in productions and concerts extensively with music and stories of heritage across the country. Ericksen was involved in the Lee Groberg film Sweetwater Rescue and later produced, in conjunction with Mark Goodman and Lee Groberg, the award winning documentary Walking in Obedience: The Ole Madsen Story. He has produced an extensive array of media revolving around faith, family and heritage which includes films, recording albums and music notation. He currently is a member of Cedar Breaks, a folk band who just released their first album, Tyme Aspects of Home. Mike lives with his wife, Cheri, and family in Utah.

Visit Mike online at www.cedarbreaksband.com

Sage Steadman has a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Utah. She became a licensed mental health therapist while pursuing her passion for writing. She is the author of inspirational self-help teen novel, Snowflake Obsidian: Memoir of a Cutter, written under her pen name The Hippie. She has been heralded as a talented new writer who tackles her novels with a witty, raw and honest approach. She currently lives near Salt Lake City, Utah.

Visit Sage online at www.thehippiewriter.com &www.snowflakeobsidianbook.com

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Deadly Alliance

Book Details
Author: A. L. Sowards
Release Date: April 2014
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Genre: Historical

AN AMAZING STORY!

"A little mystery, a little history, a little romance, and a lot of action, adventure, and suspense."

I was fascinated by the many things that went along with the actual war battles...

The captures, the torture, the imprisonments, and the separation of loved ones.

Just when you think this book could have come to a wonderful ending and the good guys have won there is a new TWIST that takes you through yet another capture...another torture...another terrible situation.

Not so many details that it makes the book scary, but enough that you will definitely AND quickly turn the pages to see if they can ever make it through this terrible war...

Peter and his men have been sent on a mission...destroy a bridge behind the Nazi line in Bosnia.

Peter does not want to leave Genevieve, but if he doesn't her life will be in jeopardy.

What Peter doesn't know is that his commander has tagged this as "a suicide mission...."

One way or another Peter's life is suppose to end.

Can he endure and make it back to his Genevieve?

Genevieve has not heard from Peter.

Everyone believes he is dead, but she holds on to hope.

"Desperate for information, her work as a courier soon escalates into a counterintelligence duel with a Fascist assassin—and Genevieve is his newest target . . ."

Can she stay alive and find her Peter?

My favorite quote:

"What do you say to someone when you've saved their life and they've saved yours and you've been through the worst life has to offer together? What do you say to the men you've starved with, to the man you've face the firing squad with? How do you say good-bye, knowing it might be for the rest of your life?"

A DEFINITE MUST READ!
HISTORY BROUGHT TO LIFE!
SO. SO. SO. GOOD!

 AMAZON | GOODREADS 

About the Author

I was born in Atlanta, Georgia and grew up in Moses Lake, Washington. Then I came to Utah to attend school and ended up staying. Books have always been an important part of my life. I remember writing self-illustrated storybooks at my grandparent’s house when I was in elementary school (none of those made it to publication for many good reasons) and attending my first writer’s conference when I was in third grade.

Another big part of my early life was swimming. I swam for the Big Bend Manta Rays, the Moses Lake Manta Rays, Moses Lake High School, and Brigham Young University. In addition to swimming, I studied Political Science and English at BYU.

Now I’m a busy mom with young twins. I still love to read and I also love to write. I’m usually reading a couple books at once and working on multiple writing projects too. Other than that, my life is pretty ordinary. I’m grateful for that. I’ll let the characters in my books have all the adventures.

What can you expect from my books?
Primarily, I write to entertain. I also hope my books will teach readers something new about history or about life (anything from the wisdom of wearing your seatbelt to the truth that it’s never too late to change). My novels usually take place during wartime, so there is some violence, but it’s not gory or excessive. I keep the language and romance family-friendly. My goal is for my writing to be thrilling, clean, and uplifting.

(A review copy was provided, however all reviews are of my own opinion :)

The Hitler Dilemma

Book Details
Author: Carolyn Twede Frank
Release Date: May 2014
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Genre: Historical

A FASCINATING portrayal of an INTRIGUING time in history!

"Your accent...German?" The man in the aisle seat readjusted his ample weight. Max nodded. His muscles tensed, unsure if the man next to him was uncomfortable with the heat, the cramped Greyhound seating, or with sitting next to a former enemy."

Max grew up in Germany and experienced the time of Adolf Hitler first-hand.

It is now 1948 and Max and his parents are on a bus headed to Salt Lake City, Utah.

As Max converses with the man sitting next to him is mind is taken back to the years of 1938 - 1945.

Max shares stories of  how Hitler took his brother away in his effort to create a Master Race...

His time spent in the Hitler Youth program...

His schooling...with the "censorship of classic literature, the elimination of math and science courses, and the addition of extra physical education classes."

His draft into the war...

Being separated from his family...

And more...

"The Hitler Dilemma is a poignant chronicle of one remarkable young man’s struggle to reconcile his sense of duty with his staunch opposition to the evil tyrant destroying the country he loves."

A VERY INTERESTING READ!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT!

AMAZON * GOODREADS 

I am GIVING AWAY an eCOPY to 
one of MY followers :)
a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author

About my writing: I don't like to write candy for the brain. But I do like to try to make my books not only fulfilling, but entertaining. Candy is nice, but a meal of meat, potatoes, and veges can leave you more satisfied. My books give the reader a good taste of history and/or science along with a dash of mystery folded into the story.

About me: I've always loved writing, but haven't gotten serious until the past seven years. When I'm not writing, I like to garden, sew, fix up old houses, or anything else creative. My favorite movies are ones about history.

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Fresh Courage Take

Book Details
Author: Dean Hughes
Release Date: May 2014
Publisher: Deseret Book
Genre: Historical

I LOVE THIS SERIES!
CAPTIVATING!
TOUCHING!

Trials, fears, and hardships are endured on both ends of the generational divide...

But each learns that family and dear friends is what it is all about.

A connection from the past into the future...

Serving one another...

Knowing that we only become stronger when we do what needs to be done...

But joyous blessings are promised to those that persevere.

You will read of how Will and Liz are forced to leave their beloved city of Nauvoo...

The struggle and decision for Will to join the Mormon Battalion...and how Liz goes on to the west with the help of her sisters.

"How many sacrifices will be required in order for the Saints to create Zion?"

Then you read the parallel story of Will and Liz's descendant, Jeff and his wife Abby, as they face the hardships of work and Church callings and lack of time as their lives become too busy.

"It is clear that building Zion in the latter days will require sacrifices, just as it did in the time of Jeff's ancestors."

"In this concluding volume of the Come to Zion trilogy, beloved novelist Dean Hughes provides a unique perspective on the struggles and sacrifices—and ultimate joy—of faithful Saints in any generation."

SO AMAZINGLY GOOD!
A TRUE MUST-READ!

DO YOU HAVE LDS PIONEER ANCESTORS?

AMAZON * GOODREADS

Book 1: The Winds and the Waves

Book 2: Through Cloud and Sunshine

About the Author

Dean Hughes has published books for readers of all ages, including the bestselling historical fiction series Children of the Promise. Through Cloud and Sunshine is his one-hundredth published book. Dean holds a bachelor’s degree from Weber State University and master’s and PhD degrees from the University of Washington. He has taught English at Central Missouri State University and Brigham Young University. Dean and his wife, Kathleen Hurst Hughes, served a mission to Nauvoo, Illinois. The parents of three children and grandparents of nine, they live in Midway, Utah.

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Where the River Once Flowed

Book Details
Author: Jennie Hansen
Release Date: February 2013
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Genre: Historical Fiction

What a WONDERFUL tale this story weaves!

Trust and Betrayal!
Hopes and Fears!
Longing for a Home and Loving to go Home!

Iliana Teresa Angelica Medina Sebastian has just turned 15 and it falls upon her to produce an heir for her grandfathers ranch.

She will marry to keep her families honorable heritage.

Ross Adams know that the ranch belonging to the Spanish aristocrat is everything he has ever dreamed about owning and has contracted to run the ranch and marry Don Sebastians granddaughter.

Ben's ranch boarders the Sebastian ranch and he will do anything to acquire both the ranch and the granddaughter.

Travis Telford is a horse runner and is looking forward to the day he can settle down with a wife and a ranch of his own.

Wait until you see how the author entwines the lives of these 4 people together...SO GOOD!

A hard book to put down :)
LOVED IT!

AMAZON * GOODREADS

About the Author

Jennie Hansen lived a nomadic life during her early years and can remember living in twenty-two different houses and attending eight schools. The two colleges where she earned degrees, Ricks and Westminster, made ten. She worked as a model, secretary, newspaper reporter and editor, legislative page, teacher, and librarian. Through it all, she kept writing. To date she has twenty-three published novels, numerous short stories, and many magazine and newspaper articles to her credit. She has written reviews of LDS fiction forMeridian Magazine since 2001.

She and her husband have five children, all of whom are married to wonderful people, and eleven grandchildren. Two days each week Jennie and her husband can be found serving at the Oquirrh Mountain Temple, a fifteen-minute drive from their Utah home.

You can learn more about Jennie Hansen by visiting her blog at notesfromjenniesdesk.blogspot.com.

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Esther the Queen

Book Details
Author: Heather B. Moore
Release Date: April 2013
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Genre: Historical Fiction

Heather has an incredible talent for bringing life and depth to scripture stories!
This book is SO. SO. SO. GOOD!
You will LOVE Esther EVEN MORE!

We know Esther was a strong woman.

She had a love of her people.
She had a love for her King and husband.

She was a Jew...He was the most powerful man in all of the kingdom.

When the two meet he cannot think of anyone else.

Having already put one wife away Esther is afraid to tell him who she really is.

"Esther is torn between her desire to be with Xerxes and the knowledge that they will forever be divided by the secret of her Jewish heritage."

But when her people are threatened to be destroyed she risks her own life in pleading for their safety.

This book gives you greater understanding of what took place and how the events unfolded.

Heather brings in a personal feeling of what Esther might have done on a daily basis.

LOVED. LOVED. LOVED. IT.
WHITNEY AWARD WINNER FOR HISTORICAL FICTION.

Amazon * Deseret Book * GoodReads

About the Author
Heather B. Moore is the USA Today bestseller and award-winning author of more than a dozen historical novels which are set in Ancient Arabia and Mesoamerica. She is not old and doesn’t remember the time period, so Google has become a great friend. Although she has spent several years living in the Middle East, she prefers to forget the smells. Heather writes her historicals and thrillers under the pen name H.B. Moore. She also writes women’s fiction, romance, and inspirational non-fiction under Heather B. Moore, including The Newport Ladies Book Club, the Amazon bestselling anthology series A Timeless Romance Anthology, the Aliso Creek series, and the USA Today bestseller Heart of the Ocean.

Heather graduated from Brigham Young University with a major in Fashion Merchandising and minor in Business Management–which has absolutely nothing to do with writing novels. But at least she can balance a mean checkbook and color-coordinate her kids’ school clothes.

Website: www.hbmoore.com
Blog: http://mywriterslair.blogspot.com
If you’re an aspiring writer, she also manages the editing company: www.precisioneditinggroup.com

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Saving Lucie Cole

Book Details
Author: Lynne Larson
Release Date: January 2014
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Genre: Historical Fiction

This book is wonderfully intriguing!
Captivating from the very beginning!
You will be quickly turning the pages to see what happens next!

I LOVE the introduction:

"There's a story that's come down through the decades about a young woman who endured a horrible crisis in the wilderness of Southern Utah. It happened back in the days when folks traveled by wagon... According to legend, Ruth May Fox, an extraordinary churchwoman and longtime general Young Ladies MIA counselor and president, figured in the events... But, as I say, it's an undocumented legend, this story you're about to read..."

The story that unfolds is both heart-wrenching and heart-warming!

Ruth May Fox and Lucie Cole are traveling companions from St. George to Salt Lake City.

They are enjoying each other's company and feel safe in the presence of the church appointed guardian and the skilled carriage master.

But lurking in the dark "the wrangler paused to squint querulously at the wagon yard known for its daily dust and traffic... and he'll stop at nothing to get to Lucie Cole."

Adventures begin!
Danger awaits!
Storms rage!
Hearts soften!

And "rescue missions may prove far more deadly than anyone could have dreamed."

SO! GOOD!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!

You can read the 1st chapter HERE

About the Author
Lynne Larson is a much-published author of stories and articles related to religion, history, and literature. The pioneer Church and especially its women is a theme of special interest. A retired teacher, she devotes her time to promoting education in the humanities, as well as a love of Western history, at every opportunity. She is a graduate of Brigham Young University and hols a master's degree in English from Idaho State University in Pocatello. She and her husband, Kent, are the parents of three grown children.

(A review copy was provide, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

In All Places w/ eBook Giveaway

Book Details
Author: Misty Moncur
Release Date: December 2013
Publisher: Eden Books
Genre: Historical Fiction

This series continues to be AMAZING!
ABSORBING and CAPTIVATING!
FUN to read ~ Keeping your interest until the last page is turned!

Keturah has been fighting with the 2000 stripling warriors....

But she is ready to return home.

Her heart is torn between the man she loves and the man she is supposed to be betrothed to.

Coming home only intensifies the confusion.

She is not meant to be a wife and homemaker.

She is happiest when she is wielding her sword.

Who will love a woman such as that?

A WONDERFUL journey into the heart of a warrior who is also a woman.

SO TREMENDOUSLY GREAT!

Misty has graciously offered an 

eBOOK GIVEAWAY for MY readers :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author

Between working and raising a family, Misty fits in writing like other people fit in breathing. Misty writes in the Romance, Young Adult, and Religious genres. She lives in Utah with her husband, her Wii-addicted son, and her curly-haired daughter. They spend a great deal of time laughing and the rest of it eating pizza. Misty writes book reviews on http://www.sixmixedreviews.blogspot.com

(A review copy was provided, however, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Fight for You w/ eBook Giveaway

Book Details
Author: Misty Moncur
Release Date: September 2013
Publisher: Eden Books
Genre: Historical Fiction

I LOVE books like this!
They are exciting and captivating to read!

They also help me understand the Book of Mormon better!
It brings it alive for me...makes me really see how it could have happened!
Then when I read it again from the Book of Mormon I can really envision it!

2000 stripling warriors...Helaman's army.

Young men who fought so their parents didn't have to break their oath of peace.

Ketruah, a girl, wanted to fight for her family and her freedom too.

She trains hard...
She works hard...
She endures remarks of not pulling her weight...
She can track and shoot and do whatever a boy does...

She goes on the marches...
She helps fortify the city...
She helps heal those who have been injured...

She also falls in love...
But she is betrothed to another...

You will read of spy missions, midnight assassinations, battlefields, retreats, and a young girls heart.

Sometimes "life's fiercest battles are not fought on the battlefield."

An AMAZING, WONDERFUL book!

Misty has graciously offered an

eBOOK GIVEAWAY for MY readers :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Misty is also giving away a 
copy of this book on GoodReads

(ends 12/15/13)

YES ~ you may enter BOTH :)

About the Author

Between working and raising a family, Misty fits in writing like other people fit in breathing. Misty writes in the Romance, Young Adult, and Religious genres. She lives in Utah with her husband, her Wii-addicted son, and her curly-haired daughter. They spend a great deal of time laughing and the rest of it eating pizza.

(A review copy was provided. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Butch Cassidy and other Mormon Outlaws of the Old West

Book Details
Author: Kathryn Jenkins Gordon
Release Date: 2013
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Genre: Historical

What an amazingly fascinating book!

So who are these Mormon Outlaws?

Orrin Porter Rockwell was sometimes the law, and sometimes an outlaw.

Robert LeRoy Parker joined the cattle rustlers and became the well-know Butch Cassidy; and twenty of the sixty in his gang of bandits were Mormons.

Willard Erastus Christianson, while walking home from a Church dance whacked a rival on the head with a rock and feared he had killed the guy so he ran away from home and became the outlaw, Matt Warner or "The Mormon Kid."

John Tomas McCarty was raised a Mormon. He later married Matt Warner's sister and mentored Matt in the ways of crime. "On March 30, 1889, Tom joined his two buddies -- Matt Warner and Butch Cassidy-- in pulling off one of the largest bank robberies of the day!

Learn about these men and more who were considered Mormon Outlaws.

Learn about the legendary Outlaw Trail and some of the most famous outlaw hideouts.

So how does a good Mormon boy would turn to a life of crime?
Here is an article from the March 10, 1898 Salt Lake Tribune:

David Lant is a boy born and raised here and who has failed to accept good advice from his father by the same name, and who greatly mourns for the actions of his wayward son. Nothing has been allowed to creep into the press news from here on account of Lant's respectable relatives. David is not, or rather was not, considered a bad young man. He gradually strayed from the path of rectitude by one small petty crime then another, until his associations led him so far he could not return. He went lower and lower into crime until the penitentiary was reached, from whence he made his escape and joined the outlaws. It is still hoped that he will not be lynched before he has a chance to be the prodigal son and return to his glad father, repent and abandon such a reckless life. 

Grab a copy of this book
Then sit back and enjoy the tales of the 
Wild West and the ways of the outlaws
A VERY FASCINATING READ!

About the Author

The managing editor at Covenant Communications, Kathryn Jenkins Gordon has had thirty-nine years of professional experience in corporate and internal communications, public relations, media relations, marketing communications, and publications management. She has been a press secretary for a US Congressman; vice-president of a Salt Lake City publishing company; manager of strategic communications for Novell, Inc.; director of public relations at a private college in Salt Lake City; and has held communications management positions at a variety of national and international corporations.

Her interest include reading, writing, cooking, traveling, and doing family history. She has met five presidents of the United States, sailed up the Nile River, prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, eaten tempura in Tokyo, and received a dozen long-stemmed red roses from a stranger on the street in Athens.

She and her husband, Glenn, parent a combined family of ten children and five grandchildren.

(A digital copy was provided for this review. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Through Cloud and Sunshine

Book Details
Author: Dean Hughes
Release Date: Jun 2013
Publisher: Deseret Book
Genre: Historical

I like to read the WHOLE book...including the preface and the author's notes. I find it fascinating what an author puts into a book.

I am always impressed with the amount of research an author must do to write about a different place and a different time.

Dean Hughes actually spent a season serving a mission in Nauvoo and pulls from those days for this book.

He also writes about how this is is 100th book. He has been "at it for thirty-four years." Sometimes he thinks about retiring as an author but says he is not ready "just yet."

He includes in this book about how the hardness of writing is the amount of information one can find now with the help of "Google." How much do you put in a book. How do you keep the book from being a historical text book vs. a novel.

I found this passage very interesting:

"I suspect that if Joseph Smith or one of the Apostles from his time were to preach in a worship service today, he might shock a modern congregation. For one thing, he would probably look unkempt. Men often owned one suit of clothes, cut and sewn with rough fabrics, and instead of sending those clothes to a dry cleaner, they brushed them off and kept wearing them. They surely looked rumpled, and they didn't bathe or shave as often as men do now. Their teeth were often bad, and as people grew older, they usually had spaces where teeth has been pulled. But more than anything, their sermons probably would have sounded strange to us. Not only did they speak for hours, but they often speculated, starting with an idea and developing it right on the spot. Joseph Smith was not as flamboyant as some, but he was full of surprises. Many of his speeches offered a new 'take' on the doctrine, and he liked homey analogies, humor, and sometimes a challenge to enemies of the Church."

 Dean Hughes also tells about the amount of drafts he goes through before his wife, his toughest critic, will say she really likes it. That is the most important endorsement he can receive.

And now you know a little more of what authors put 
into the books that we SO LOVE READING!

Book Description
Nauvoo was supposed to be the kingdom of God on earth, but Will and Liz Lewis are learning that it takes more than dreaming of Zion to make it a reality. Sickness, poverty, and just plain human nature add to the struggles for the Lord's people, but every now and then a glimpse of heaven shines through. Just when things are starting to get settled, though, the old problems start rearing their heads, leaving Will and others wondering if they will be there to reap the harvest they have so carefully sown.

Meanwhile, Jeff and Abby—in modern-day Nauvoo—are dealing with challenges of their own. As their newborn baby fights for his life, they must come to grips with their personal faith. Can they, like their ancestors, continue to trust in God when there seems to be no trace o Him in their trials?

Beloved novelist Dean Hughes skillfully interweaves the stories of two couples separated by five generations and 150 years, providing a unique perspective on Church history and showing how much we can learn from those who went before us.


This series continues to be an AWESOME story!

Book 1: The Winds and the Waves

About the Author
Dean Hughes has published books for readers of all ages, including the bestselling historical fiction series Children of the Promise. Dean holds a bachelor’s degree from Weber State University and master’s and PhD degrees from the University of Washington. He has taught English at Central Missouri State University and Brigham Young University. Dean and his wife, Kathleen Hurst Hughes, are the parents of three children and grandparents of nine, they live in Midway, Utah.


(A digital review copy was provided for this review. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Rising Sun, Falling Star w/ $25 Amazon OR PayPal GIVEAWAY

Tour Schedule

Book Details
Author: Vickie Hall
Release Date: June 2013
Genre: Historical

The thing I love most about books is that they can take you to a different time and a different place. And this book does just that in such a heart-wrenching, yet most amazingly wonderful way.

So beautifully written you will relive the time and the place.
You will cry for the people and wonder how this could have ever happened.

You will embrace their journey and make it your own.
And in the end you will pray that something like this will never happen again.

Kenji and Aiko Onishi are living in California when Pearl Harbor is bombed.

Because they are of  Japanese descent they are ripped from their home and placed in an internment camp.

Life will never be the same.

Based on true and tragic events during WW II!
This book will touch your heart!

Excerpt from the book:

“Mama, what’s wrong?”

“Come with me,” she ordered. “Hurry.”

Meri pulled hard against her mother’s tightened grasp. “Mama, what’s happened? Where are we going?”

“You see,” she said, breathless with her quickened steps. She made a beeline to the telephone pole by the post office. Meri followed, a look of dread splashed across her face as they came to a stop in front of the sign. “Tell me what say,” she said, pointing.

Meri cradled her books in her arm and stared up at the sign. She began to read and her eyes widened. “Mama,” she gasped, “we’re being evacuated!”

Aiko’s stone-like face never flinched as she absorbed the news. “What else it say?”

Meri spun toward her mother. “Where are they sending us? What’s going to happen to us?”

Aiko lifted her chin toward the sign. “Read more.”

Meri blinked back tears and turned to face the sign. “A responsible member of the family must report tomorrow to the Civil Control Station for further instructions between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.”

Aiko motioned to Meri’s books. “Write down what it say.”

“Mama—”

Aiko touched her daughter’s arm. “We be fine,” she said, adding a soft smile. “Write down.”

Meri’s hands were shaking as she took out a pencil and opened her notebook. She wrote down all of the instructions posted on the sign in careful detail. When she had finished, she looked at her mother with beseeching eyes. “Oh, Mama . . . this is horrible. It’s not fair!” Meri exclaimed, coming alongside her mother. “It’s just not fair!”

                Aiko could see the desperation in her daughter’s expression and brushed Meri’s cheek with the back of her fingers. “Meri, fallen blossom cannot return to branch. We pick up pieces and wait for new blossom.”   

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About the Author

Vickie Hall lends a new voice to the market.Her characters fill the pages with depth and emotion while the riveting plot keeps the pages turning to the very end. Her love of writing is evident in her masterful blend of story-telling and deep emotion. Readers will be richly satisfied and left wanting more.

Vickie is also a musician and composer. She has been writing music since she was 13 years old. Her music has been recorded by the Westminster College Women's Choir.

(A digital review copy was provided for this review. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Spirit of the Revolution w/ eBOOK GIVEAWAY

Book Details
Author: Debbie Peterson
Release Date: May 2013
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Historical Romance

WOW... SIGH... WOW!
This book is BEYOND WORDS AMAZING!

When I was told that this book was paranormal I was a little hesitant. I don't do a lot of paranormal.
BUT WOW! SIGH!
I am SO GLAD I read it!

I fell in love with it!
I LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!

From the very beginning until the very end...sighing all the while! This book is one of the best books I have ever read! So well told!

Amazing insight to the Revolutionary war and the war heroes of that time.

And the romance...oh...the romance...clean...good...breath-taking!
BIG SIGH!
WOW!

I can't seem to find enough good words to describe this book!

Jolena has put her heart and soul and many hard hours into restoring the old house....only to find out that the neighbors think it is haunted.

Mathias and his Revolutionary War Ranger friends find that someone is living in their house they set out to do what they always have done...haunt them until they leave.

But when they see the house and the beauty that has been restored they have second thoughts.
And when they meet Jolena, they know they want her to stay.

And the story that unfolds is SO. SO. SO. GOOD!
Truths will be revealed.
War secrets will be brought to light.
Family history will come alive.
Historical sites will be visited
And divine intervention will bring it all to a wonderful, amazing, breath-taking end!

OH. THIS. BOOK. IS. GOOD!
I will DEFINITELY be reading more from Debbie Peterson!

Debbie has graciously agreed to do an 

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About the Author:
Debbie has always had a soft spot for fairy tales, the joy of falling in love, and happily ever after endings. Stories of love and make believe filled her head for as long as she can remember. However, it was her beloved husband who encouraged, cajoled and inspired her to take up a pen and write some of them down. Her journey to published author could fill quite a few pages, but in June of 2010, she submitted her debut novel, “Spirit of the Rebellion” to her wonderful, patient, editor at The Wild Rose Press. A few short months after Rebellion’s release, her second novel, “Shadow of the Witte Wieven” was published through InkSpell Publishing. Her third novel, “Spirit of the Revolution” was released May 31, 2013, through The Wild Rose Press. Other books are waiting in the wings, so stay tuned.


When she is not busy conjuring her latest novel, Debbie spends time with the members of her very large family. She also pursues her interests in family history, mythology, and all things ancient and historic.

Ten fun things to know about Debbie:

1. She has been delving into her family history since she was sixteen years old.

2. She has been teaching genealogy classes for well over a decade.

3. Books...she has more than one thousand of them in her personal library.

4. And she is now running out of space to house those books...

5. Debbie has actually seen a ghost.

6. If you ask her about it, she just might tell you.

7. She collects swans, elephants, and wolves.

8. She loves dusty, old antiques stores and it is best if she avoids them altogether.

9. Debbie loves the rain, and will play in it like a child whenever the opportunity manifests itself.

10. Shoes... she only wears them when it is absolutely necessary.