Torn Canvas by Donna Weaver

Torn Canvas by Donna K. Weaver

I just love presenting new books by favorite authors, especially when the author is a friend of mine. Please welcome on the blog Donna K. Weaver's new TORN CANVAS, the second in the Safe Harbors series. 

When I asked Donna what she likes to eat while reading and writing, here's what she said: 

"Usually chocolate chips. Semi sweet. But I'm probably going to have to give those up since writing is making me so fat. :D" ~Donna

Even a hero needs rescuing sometimes

Modern-day pirates took more than Jori Virtanen’s friends; they stole his face. Not only does the twenty-four-year-old former model have to confront months of reconstructive surgery, he discovers his previous life was as superficial as his looks. Jori struggles to make a new life for himself as an artist while evading the press. They expect a hero, but he knows the truth. His beauty masks a beast.

Olivia Howard’s given up a normal life for her job, and the sacrifices are finally paying off. The twenty-six-year-old talk-show host’s ratings are heading to the top of the charts. Her dream is to make a difference in people’s lives, but the studio wants mind fluff—like interviewing hot model Jori Virtanen. When Olivia learns the guy helped rescue passengers on a cruise excursion from kidnappers, she knows this is the story she needs to make her case. The only problem is the hero was injured, and now he’s disappeared.

The more Olivia learns about the man behind the scar, the more intrigued she becomes. But Jori is no girl’s happily ever after. Once she finds him, Olivia has to free his heart and help heal the beast.

Links:

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | iTUNES | KOBO | GOODREADS

Trailer on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z07kxkS53Ys

Author of the Safe Harbors series and Second Chances 101, Book 5 in the Ripple Effect series. A wife, mother, grandmother, Harry Potter geek, Army veteran, and karate black belt.

Contact the author: donnakweaver@gmail.com














Find the author on:

Blog | Amazon Author Page | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | YouTube | Google+

Frogs & Toads by Stacy Lynn Carroll

Frogs & Toads by Stacy Lynn Carroll

One kiss can change the future...for better or for worse.

Belle and her cousins have conquered their fears. Now as they navigate their way through the dating world, they start to see a "happily ever after" on the horizon. But when an unexpected school assignment forces them to examine their past, the Princess sisters realize they have a lot of questions about the fathers they've never met. Secrets are revealed, long lost family members are discovered, and now the girls must decide who belongs in their future and who should be kept in the past.

Christy: What do you like to eat while writing/reading? 

Stacy: I honestly can not eat while I write. I end up focusing on the food, cause food brings me happiness, instead of my writing. I'm just too easily distracted! But I love to eat while I read. Some of my favorites are chocolate covered almonds, cheese and crackers, or a quesadilla. All are yummy, easy to make, late night snacks. The only opportunity I have for reading is late at night, after all my little monkeys are in bed. And I can handle eating these snacks while reading without making a big mess, for the most part.

Author Bio:

Stacy Lynn Carroll has always loved telling stories.  She started out at Utah State University where she pursued a degree in English, learned how to western swing, and watched as many of her fellow students became ‘True Aggies’.  She then finished her BA at the University of Utah where she got an emphasis in creative writing.  After college she worked as an administrative assistant, where she continued to write stories for the amusement of her co-workers.  When her first daughter was born, and with the encouragement of a fortune cookie, she quit her job and became a full-time mommy and writer.  She and her husband have three children, two Corgis, and a fish named Don.

Links:

Frogs & Toads: http://www.amazon.com/Frogs-Toads-Princess-Sisters-ebook/dp/B00G47G83Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1383109118&sr=8-1&keywords=Frogs+%26+Toads+carroll

The Princess Sisters free promotion: http://www.amazon.com/Princess-Sisters-ebook/dp/B005D5J3I2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1383109260&sr=8-1&keywords=the+princess+sisters

Motive for Murder by Marlene Bateman

Motive for Murder by Marlene Bateman

Meet Erica Coleman—a gifted and quirky private investigator with an OCD-like passion for neatness and symmetry, a penchant for cooking, (ten terrific recipes are included), and a weakness for chocolate. 

Erica imagined that her trip to Florida would be a slice of heaven—a chance to get away from it all and catch up with her best friend, Wendy. But one day into her vacation, all hope of fun in the sun is dashed when she stumbles, literally, over a dead man on Wendy’s driveway. With police closing in on her friend as their main suspect, Erica must find the real killer before Wendy ends up behind bars. 

With Erica’s skill, solving the mystery should be a piece of cake but then a second homicide-attempt hits close to home and generates a whole new list of suspects. There’s no way to sugarcoat it, a murderer is on the prowl, and no one is above suspicion. As the plot thickens, it appears Erica may have bitten off more than she can chew, but she forges on, sifting through mounting evidence until she hones in on the killer who has a surprising motive for murder. With a dash of romance and some surprising twists, this thrilling mystery will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. 

~Published 2013 by Covenant Communications, Inc

Welcome to a blog tour for Motive for Murder by Marlene Bateman. This mystery sounds so fun!

You can purchase Motive for Murder on Amazon.

Praise from Traci Abramson and Betsy Brannon Green:

"Motive for Murder is fresh, captivating, and cleverly written. The colorful cast of characters will enthrall readers as they try to navigate the clever twists and turns of this captivating mystery. Intriguing, memorable characters, and a skillfully written mystery make Motive for Murder Marlene Bateman's finest work yet—a must read!"
~Traci Abramson

"With a fresh, crisp writing style, Marlene Bateman introduces readers to a fascinating cast of characters and skillfully unravels an intricate plot full of twists and surprises! I loved Motive for Murder and you will too!"
~Betsy Brannon Green

About the Author:

Marlene Bateman Sullivan was born in Salt Lake City, Utah.  She graduated from the University of Utah with a BA in English. She is married to Kelly R. Sullivan and they are the parents of seven children. 

Her hobbies are gardening, camping, and reading.  Marlene has been published extensively in magazines and newspapers and has written a number of non-fiction books, including:  Latter-day Saint Heroes and Heroines, And There Were Angels Among Them, Visit’s From Beyond the Veil, By the Ministering of Angels, and Brigham’s Boys. Marlene also wrote the best-selling novel, Light on Fire Island.

A busy writer, Marlene is set to have three books published this year. Gaze Into Heaven, a fascinating collection of over 50 documented near-death experiences in early church history, was published earlier this year. Next is Motive for Murder, the first in a mystery series featuring the quirky Erica Coleman. In July, Heroes of Faith, a collection of stories about people who risked their life for the gospel, will be released by Cedar Fort Inc.

Tide Ever Rising by Mandi Tucker Slack

Tide Ever Rising
by Mandi Tucker Slack

Kadence Reynold’s favorite pastime is exploring old ghost towns. When she and her sister, Maysha stumble across an old journal and cheap pendant hidden in the depths of a crumbling foundation near Eureka, Utah, their world is suddenly turned upside down. Immediately, strange dreams and premonitions begin to haunt “Kadie” as she learns more about the keeper of the journal, Charlotte Clark. Kadie sets out on a journey to learn more about Charlotte and her family, and she and Maysha travel to Bremerton, Washington, where they discover Charlotte's still living twin sister, Adelaide and her family.

~Published February 12th 2013 by Bonneville

Tide Ever Rising is a fun ghost story. I got caught up in the characters right away. Kadie and her sister, Maysha, are both fun and adventurous. I love the plotline of Kadie searching for the answer to a long-forgotten secret and being led by the ghost of the woman who was killed.

I felt that the writing could have used some further editing--there were many passive sentences and repeated words used throughout. And the ending bothered me a bit. I don't like to include spoilers, so I can't go into details, but I'll just say that I would have rearranged the events of some of the ending to make the story feel more circular and complete.

Because I'm a cave lover, I really love the backdrop of caves in the story. And the searching through ghost towns? Shiver.

I recommend Tide Ever Rising for a fun, quick romantic adventure.

Create a Powerful Life Plan! 3 Simple Steps to Your Ideal Life by Connie Sokol

Ready to jumpstart your life, but not sure how?

Years ago I was fat, unfulfilled, and unfocused. Then I got serious about making changes, writing an achievable life vision and goals. Starting with weight, I lost twenty-five pounds and gained great energy. This motivated me to organize my home and time, rediscover the joy in parenting, and speak professionally part-time to share with others what I had learned.

That was my ideal life change, what’s yours?

Create a Powerful Life Plan: 3 Simple Steps to Your Ideal Life! will help you achieve life changes in three stress-free steps. You’ll learn how to create a clear vision of your ideal life. Then, how to set and achieve simple, enjoyable goals to make that vision a reality. And finally, what to do when you become stuck, fearful, or frustrated.

You’ll also read the real-life experiences of five women who put their Life Plan into action. And receive online support through podcasts, video segments, blog posts and more at www.conniesokol.com.

Now is the best time to become the person you want to be, and live the life you yearn to live. No gimmicks, no hoopla, just solid, time-tested principles and practices that will help you achieve your dreams and goals, and enjoy the process.

So, are you ready to create your powerful Life Plan?

~Published January 7th 2013 by Sokol Publishing

I just love Connie's outlook on life, and her books give me such a push to do what I know I can. This book empowers you to make small changes in your life that will lead to an overall powerful life plan. 

The book acts like a workbook of sorts, for those who like to write down their goals. Even if you don't like to, even just reading the book in a sitting, like I did, will clarify your outlook on your own life. I highly recommend this book, I'm buying copies for the women in my life. 



Endorsements:
"I love your book!! I read it once last week and now I'm reading it again and marking it. I can see it making a difference in my life. I'm realizing that I don't have to do it all at once." Jodi Anderson

"Before I started this [book], I wanted to break down my goals into weekly accomplishments in a goal setting program. I can't believe it, this is exactly what I have been looking for!" Brea Mefford

"I love this program. It really helps me to be accountable, and more importantly, to see progress. I increased my weekly income by better than half. I paid off two credit cards and my overdraft. My husband was able to pay off his car, and I have completely revamped my business goals and direction. Thank you!" Andrea Johnson

Social Media Links:
www.facebook.com/8basics
www.conniesokol.com
www.8basics.com
http://pinterest.com/conniesokol
http://www.amazon.com/Connie-E.-Sokol/e/B00530YEVI/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5032389.Connie_E_Sokol
www.youtube.com/My8Basics

Biography:
Connie Sokol is a mother of seven, a sought after local and national presenter, and a regular speaker at Education Week. She is a monthly TV contributor on KSL’s “Studio 5” and regular blogger for KSL's "Motherhood Matters." She is a former columnist for Deseret News and Utah Valley Magazine, and TV and radio host for Bonneville Communications. Mrs. Sokol is the author of several books including the award-nominated Caribbean Crossroads, Faithful, Fit & Fabulous, and Life is Too Short for One Hair Color Series, as well as the creator of talk CDs, podcasts and the "8-week Challenge." Mrs. Sokol marinates in time spent with her family and eating decadent treats. For more, visit www.conniesokol.com.
 

Blog Tour Schedule for Create A Powerful Life Plan! 3 Simple Steps to Your Ideal Life by Connie Sokol

January 2013--
1/16/2013    http://rachelannnunes.blogspot.com/
1/17/2013   http://thebookbug-hogan.blogspot.com/
1/18/2013    http://www.christydorrity.com/
1/21/2013    http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com/
1/22/2013    http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/   1/24/2013    http://lisaswinton.blogspot.com/
1/24/2013    http://lisaswinton.blogspot.com/
1/25/2013    http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/
1/25/2013    http://www.ldswomensbookreview.com/wordpress/
1/28/2013    http://rachellewrites.blogspot.com/  
  2/1/2013    http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/
 2/8/2013    http://ordinaryhappilyeverafter.com/

Finished Being Fat by Betsy Schow

Do you have a goal to lose weight this year? Have you tried and failed so many times you cannot count? Maybe you are like me and are dealing with more than just portion control. I'm excited to introduce you to Betsy Schow's new book, Finished Being Fat. The book comes out today! You can find Finished Being Fat on Amazon.

Finished Being Fat by Betsy Schow

This is not your ordinary diet book. This is a true story about to entertain and uplift at the same time. It's being hailed as Eat, Pray, Love ... for normal people.

After many years of being fat and miserable, with a few years of being average and less miserable mixed in, I finally had a lightbulb moment. The reason I was unhappy, was not just the extra 75 pounds of pudge I was carrying. It was the weight of all the things unfinished that hung around my neck. I was always having grand ideas. I'd get excited about this diet, or that workout routine. Or starting a new hobby or project. Problem was, within a few weeks the excitement would fade and that little voice would kick in. You know the one I'm talking about. 

"You're no good at this. You'll never keep the weight off. Why are you even bothering?"

Betsy Schow, before and after
Photo: courtesy Betsy Schow

And every time I quit, my wall of failures would get a little higher -- making success that much harder to see.

What started out as yet another attempt to get rid of the weight around my middle, snowballed into a year of changing my life, my marriage  and the way I raise my kids. Not to mention accomplishing seemingly impossible dreams. 

Whether your goal is losing weight, running a marathon, cleaning out the basement, or all of the above, this book will teach you how to achieve more than you ever thought possible without sacrificing your sanity or sense of humor.

This is a book all about finishing and reaching your goals, perfect to highlight while all your readers are making their New Year's resolutions, or struggling to keep those resolutions.

Yummy ribs and your last chance to win over $200 worth of books

"Love books? Like cooking? Then you're like me and have been itching for a peak inside The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook. Well I have a treat for you. Straight from the 2012 edition, I bring you an easy chicken recipe (called the Perfect Ten Dauntless Chicken Skewers) that is perfect for summer. Enjoy! We sure did. Mr. Whimsy and I will definitely be making this recipe again." ~Juju Tales of Whimsy

Today is the last day of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour! There are some seriously fun and funny things going on on the tour today.  Check out the image that Juju created after sampling the chicken skewers (above).  And find out why Christine Bryant thinks the Octavian Ribs look yummy--in more ways than one!

By purchasing the cookbook, trying out a recipe, commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you can earn entries to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Michelle A True Book Addict
Alicia Ali's Bookshelf
Chrystal Snowdrop Dreams
Juju Tales of Whimsy
Deirdre A Storybook World
Christine Day Dreamer
Taffy The Book Addict

Bloggers rave about The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

Silver Solara

Food and Books....you can't ask for a better combination. We all love to eat, and most everyone loves to read. ~Elizabeth at  Silver Solara.

Welcome to the second week of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour! Tomorrow is the last day to enter!

Today a few of the bloggers who are included in the cookbook review it and tell us what they think.

By purchasing the cookbook, trying out a recipe, commenting on this post, and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you can earn entries to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:


Elizabeth Silver Solara 

Jessica Total Bookaholic

Kellee Teach Mentor Texts

Rootbeer Cookies and Pumpkin Custard! Try out a recipe from The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

"Not only does The Book Blogger's Cookbook have delicious recipes - all 22 of the recipes are paired with the description and cover of the inspiring book.I recommend The Book Bloggers Cookbook for any book blogger or cook out there; especially those of you that have a passion for the Young Adult genre." ~Jennifer, My Life With Books

Welcome to the second week of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour!

Today some of the reviewers are highlighting recipes that are included in the cookbook.  Check out Modern Day Rootbeer Cookies and Polite Pumpkin Custard!

By purchasing the cookbook, trying out a recipe, commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you can earn entries to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Jennifer My Life With Books
Mindi Min Reads and Reviews and LDS Women's Book Reviews
Stella Ex Libris
Diana Amazing Book Adventures
Arla Leave Mommy Alone
Jessica Hopeless Bibliophile

Blog tour for Witchsong by Amber Argyle

Witchsong by Amber Argyle

Today I am participating in the blog tour of Amber Argyle's debut novel, Witchsong.  Information about the book tour can be found on Amber's blog.

Read my review of this lovely book and check out the yummy recipes for Golden Curry Soup and Honeycakes.