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Ilana’s Wish by Annette Lyon – Countdown to Summer 2014

 Posted by  Countdown to Summer
Jun 162014
 

CD2S-2014_300

5 days until summer!

 

annettelyonAnnette Lyon is a Whitney Award winner, a two-time recipient of Utah’s Best of State medal for fiction, and a three-time publication award winner from the League of Utah Writers, most recently, the Silver Quill Award in 2013. She’s the author of more than a dozen novels, almost as many novellas, several nonfiction books, and over one hundred twenty magazine articles. Annette is a cum laude graduate from BYU with a degree in English. When she’s not writing, knitting, or eating chocolate, she can be found mothering and avoiding the spots on the kitchen floor. Find her online at blog.annettelyon.com and on Twitter: @AnnetteLyon.

Visit Annette: WEBSITE | BLOG | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOOGLE+ | PINTEREST

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LDSWBR: What book or movie reminds you of summer?

ANNETTE: Definitely Anne of Green Gables, because I was first introduced to Anne over the summer before eighth grade. I’d just spent three years abroad, where finding books in English wasn’t the easiest. That summer, I spent hours and hours reading the first three Anne books, which were collected into a single volume that my best friend loaned me. As soon as I finished the first book, I HAD to see the movie, of course. Another friend had it (on VHS) at her house, and we watched it in her family room. Even now, thoughts of Gilbert and Anne remind me of that summer, including the very bed I read on. I ended up being a huge LM Montgomery fan, although Anne isn’t my favorite Montgomery character. I have a shelf full of her books, including her autobiography, her short stories, all five massive volumes of her journals, and a DVD with a ton of history and photographs. And a quote from her journal hanging on my writing desk! It’s safe to say that the summer of 1987 had a huge impact on me as both a reader and a writer.

LDSWBR: Do you hike during the summer? If so, where is your favorite place to hike?

ANNETTE: Not as much as I once did–I have a hankering to do a full-on, several-day Uintah backpacking hike again some day. But sometimes I’ll do a day hike with my kids, most recently, up to Stewart Falls (near Sundance) and up Y Mountain in Provo.

LDSWBR: What is the best book you’ve read so far this year?

ANNETTE: I Shall Be Near to You, by Erin Lindsay McCabe. I’m a sucker for historical fiction and women’s fiction. This book combines the two into historical women’s fiction and adds a haunting story with real characters and a great voice right along with heartbreaking history. It’s about a new wife who enlists in the US Army during the Civil War so she can be close to her soldier husband.

LDSWBR: Thank you, Annette!

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DESERET BOOK | SEAGULL BOOK | AMAZON | GOODREADS

Ilanas Wish

On the surface, Ilana Goldstein leads an enviable life: a thriving career and a happy marriage to a handsome doctor. All that’s missing is a baby, an emptiness that will surely be filled with time . . .

Then, in an instant, her life falls apart. Now, beneath Ilana’s once flawless exterior hides a dark secret that may destroy the woman who seemed to have it all. Following a rapid succession of crushing trials, Ilana turns to prescription medications to take the edge off her agony both the ache of her body and the anguish of her soul. But when her desperation to dull the pain leads to the downward spiral of addiction, her friends in the Newport Ladies Book Club must do whatever it takes to save one of their own. Will Ilana’s devastating losses bring about her own self-destruction, or will the loving determination of friends and family lend her the strength to overcome?

Has a book or author ever impacted your life like Anne of Green Gables and LM Montgomery have impacted Annette’s life?

* * *

**To enter the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014, leave a thoughtful comment below.**

This is raffle-style drawing where all entries throughout the contest period are entered into the same “hat” for all prizes. Because this is a raffle-style drawing, commenting on each Countdown to Summer 2014 post will give you more chances to win. Please click through to the website as only comments submitted directly on this post will be accepted.

Prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and the author-donated books listed below. US only. 18 years and older please. See all contest rules and restrictions below.

Following LDSWBR is not required but you may want to consider doing so during the contest so you don’t miss any posts or chances to enter the drawing. You can follow us through email, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, Instagram, and Pinterest (links in our sidebar.)

If one of our reviews has ever helped you find a book you enjoyed, please consider helping us spread the word about the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014. A link posted to your friends and family either in email or on your favorite social network would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

By leaving a comment and entering the Countdown to Summer 2014, you agree to the contest rules below:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY; entrants must be 18 years or older; open to residents of continental US only; giveaway begins June 5, 2014 and all entries must be received by 12:00 Midnight June 30, 2014 Mountain Time; to enter, complete the required entry on each post and any additional entries of your choice if listed; LDS Women’s Book Review reserves the right to determine what is considered a thoughtful comment as per each post’s required entry; giveaway prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and a variety of book prizes donated by featured authors; the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning; LDS Women’s Book Review is not liable for technical problems which may affect entry into the giveaway; winner identity will be verified by email address; winner will be selected July 3, 2014 by use of a sequence generator on random.org; winner will have until July 10, 2014 to claim their prize; if any prize winner forfeits or does not claim prize, prize will be re-awarded to next winner in sequence; all prizes will be awarded; limit of two prizes per entrant; this contest/giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other entity unless otherwise specified; by entering the giveaway you give LDS Women’s Book Review the right to publicize your name on the LDS Women’s Book Review blog; winner agrees to release LDS Women’s Book Review from any liability as a result of winning; email comments and questions to LDS Women’s Book Review – ldswbr (at) gmail (dot) com; giveaway subject to Utah regulations; VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

**Book Prizes (as of 6/16/14 – more to be added to this list!)**

  • Unraveled by Julie Daines (signed paperback)
  • Any book by A.L. Sowards (choice of paperback or Kindle version)
  • An autographed copy of any one Sarah M. Eden book of the winner’s choice
  • Chances Are by Traci Hunter Abramson (signed/personalized paperback)
  • Choice of The Inventor’s Secret (hardback or paperback) or The Avatar Battle (hardback or audio CD) by Chad Morris (signed copy)
  • Missing Lily by Annette K. Larsen (ebook in .mobi or epub)
  • Glimmering Light by Margot Hovley (personalized paperback or Kindle)
  • Before the Clock Strikes Thirty by Aubrey Mace (personalized paperback)
  • Tulips and Treason by Tristi Pinkston (personalized paperback)
  • Luminescence by Braden Bell
  • Falling For You by Krista Lynne Jensen (signed paperback)
  • Ilana’s Wish by Annette Lyon (paperback copy, personalized if desired)

 

Falling For You by Krista Lynne Jensen – Countdown to Summer 2014

 Posted by  Countdown to Summer
Jun 152014
 

CD2S-2014_300

6 days until summer!

 

kristalynnejensenNearly every one of Krista Lynne Jensen’s elementary school teachers noted on her report card that she was a “day-dreamer”. It was not a compliment. So, when Krista grew up, she put those daydreams down on paper for others to enjoy. When she’s not writing she enjoys reading, hiking, her family, and sunshine. But not laundry. She never day-dreams about laundry.

Krista writes LDS romance, and fantasy. She is the author of OF GRACE AND CHOCOLATE (2012 Whitney Award Finalist) and THE ORCHARD (2013 Whiney Award Finalist), Falling for You (2014), and has novellas in Love Unexpected: With All My Heart and A Timeless Romance Anthology: Love Letters (both 2014). She is a member of LDStorymakers. Visit her blog at kristalynnejensen.blogspot.com.

Visit Krista: BLOG | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

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LDSWBR: What book or movie reminds you of summer?

KRISTA: Probably Pretty in Pink. I’m not even sure it came out in the summer, but we had a dollar theater that played movies after they left the bigger cinemas. That was the summer I turned 16, and I really wanted to be Molly Ringwald. Blane AND Ducky? A Volkswagon Karmann Ghia? Yes, please. She sewed. I sewed. Andie Walsh was my hero that year.

LDSWBR: Do you hike during the summer? If so, where is your favorite place to hike?

KRISTA: I do like to hike in the summer. I’m not sure I have a favorite place. We’ve been camping all over the west and we usually include a hike. We lived near Yellowstone for seven years and I’ve hiked some amazing trails in the park. I love the Blue Mountains in eastern Washington where we camped when I was a teen. The Beartooths in Montana take your breath away. The Mount Rainier area is gorgeous. I guess one of my favorite places is Coastal Oregon. Definitely. I’ve been really lucky. Now that we’ve moved again I’m excited to find even more places. My kids are faster than me now, though. Ol’ lady has to keep up.

LDSWBR: What is the best book you’ve read so far this year?

KRISTA: Wow, that’s a tough one. Can I just list a few? Brandon Sanderson’s Steelheart was awesome. I finally read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, and it was wonderful. Sarah Eden’s Drops of Gold was so tender. Loved it. Marion Jensen’s Almost Super is middle grade gold. I also read Adoption Parenting, and The Connected Child in preparation for bringing our adopted daughter home from China this Fall. Heavy stuff, but I’m so eager to get her here and get going. So, lots of genres! Lots of books! Not enough time AT ALL.

LDSWBR: Thanks, Krista!

* * *

DESERET BOOK | SEAGULL BOOK | AMAZON | GOODREADS

FallingforYou_COVER

Jetsetter Elizabeth Embry is the toast of the town. A rising star in the fashion industry, she has traveled the world and lived a life of glamour and fortune. But beneath her carefree façade, Elizabeth is running from a past that won’t let her rest. When a former colleague reaches out with a job offer in the sleepy town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Elizabeth feels a spark of hope—perhaps this drastic change of scene will finally allow her to slow down. Envisioning an idyllic getaway at the mountainous bed & breakfast that has been arranged for her, Elizabeth is caught off guard by her immediate attraction to the aloof innkeeper. Ryan Brennan is certainly handsome, but what secrets hide behind that withdrawn exterior? Surrounded by people bent on playing matchmaker, the stage is set for a picture-perfect romance. But as past heartache threatens to overwhelm them both, can Elizabeth and Ryan let go of their pain and grab hold of a promising future together?

What movie or book character do you relate to or want to be, even if just for a little while?

* * *

**To enter the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014, leave a thoughtful comment below.**

This is raffle-style drawing where all entries throughout the contest period are entered into the same “hat” for all prizes. Because this is a raffle-style drawing, commenting on each Countdown to Summer 2014 post will give you more chances to win. Please click through to the website as only comments submitted directly on this post will be accepted.

Prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and the author-donated books listed below. US only. 18 years and older please. See all contest rules and restrictions below.

Following LDSWBR is not required but you may want to consider doing so during the contest so you don’t miss any posts or chances to enter the drawing. You can follow us through email, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, Instagram, and Pinterest (links in our sidebar.)

If one of our reviews has ever helped you find a book you enjoyed, please consider helping us spread the word about the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014. A link posted to your friends and family either in email or on your favorite social network would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

By leaving a comment and entering the Countdown to Summer 2014, you agree to the contest rules below:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY; entrants must be 18 years or older; open to residents of continental US only; giveaway begins June 5, 2014 and all entries must be received by 12:00 Midnight June 30, 2014 Mountain Time; to enter, complete the required entry on each post and any additional entries of your choice if listed; LDS Women’s Book Review reserves the right to determine what is considered a thoughtful comment as per each post’s required entry; giveaway prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and a variety of book prizes donated by featured authors; the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning; LDS Women’s Book Review is not liable for technical problems which may affect entry into the giveaway; winner identity will be verified by email address; winner will be selected July 3, 2014 by use of a sequence generator on random.org; winner will have until July 10, 2014 to claim their prize; if any prize winner forfeits or does not claim prize, prize will be re-awarded to next winner in sequence; all prizes will be awarded; limit of two prizes per entrant; this contest/giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other entity unless otherwise specified; by entering the giveaway you give LDS Women’s Book Review the right to publicize your name on the LDS Women’s Book Review blog; winner agrees to release LDS Women’s Book Review from any liability as a result of winning; email comments and questions to LDS Women’s Book Review – ldswbr (at) gmail (dot) com; giveaway subject to Utah regulations; VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

**Book Prizes (as of 6/15/14 – more to be added to this list!)**

  • Unraveled by Julie Daines (signed paperback)
  • Any book by A.L. Sowards (choice of paperback or Kindle version)
  • An autographed copy of any one Sarah M. Eden book of the winner’s choice
  • Chances Are by Traci Hunter Abramson (signed/personalized paperback)
  • Choice of The Inventor’s Secret (hardback or paperback) or The Avatar Battle (hardback or audio CD) by Chad Morris (signed copy)
  • Missing Lily by Annette K. Larsen (ebook in .mobi or epub)
  • Glimmering Light by Margot Hovley (personalized paperback or Kindle)
  • Before the Clock Strikes Thirty by Aubrey Mace (personalized paperback)
  • Tulips and Treason by Tristi Pinkston (personalized paperback)
  • Luminescence by Braden Bell
  • Falling For You by Krista Lynne Jensen (signed paperback)

 

Luminescence by Braden Bell – Countdown to Summer 2014

 Posted by  Countdown to Summer
Jun 142014
 

CD2S-2014_300

7 days until summer!

 

BradenBellBraden Bell was the least-stable, lowest-achieving middle school student in the history of civilization. He shocked every former teacher by eventually earning both a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. in theatre. A middle school teacher by day and a parent by night, he is around middle-grade mayhem 24/7. He teaches choir and directs plays, but whether he fights evil evenings and weekends is something he cannot disclose. Braden lives with his wife and children on a quiet, tree-lined lot outside of Nashville, TN. He is the author of THE KINDLING, PENUMBRAS, LUMINESCENCE, and also wrote THE ROAD SHOW.

Visit Braden: WEBSITE | BLOG | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

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LDSWBR: What book or movie reminds you of summer?

BRADEN: This is cheating a bit since it’s TV shows. But, several years ago, my wife and I spent a very happy summer watching “All Creatures Great and Small.” That was pre-streaming, back when you had to have dvds mailed to your house via Netflix, so we’d watch a few episodes, send the disc in, get the next one and so on. Then, there was the summer we introduced our older children to quality 80s shows such as “The A-Team” and “MacGuyver.” They are gone on missions now, and so those are really cherished memories.

LDSWBR: Do you hike during the summer? If so, where is your favorite place to hike?

BRADEN: Goodness, no. I expend enormous amount of effort avoiding hiking or anything like it. I do like to work in my yard. Does that count?

LDSWBR: What is the best book you’ve read so far this year?

BRADEN: Mile 21 by Sarah Dunster. It won the Whitney (deservedly), so everyone knows about it now, but I read it way back in January.

LDSWBR: Thank you, Braden!

* * *

SEAGULL BOOK | BARNES & NOBLE | AMAZON | GOODREADS

Luminscence 2x3

Determined to rescue their favorite teacher, Conner, Lexa, and Melanie confront their worst fears and use their powers in unexpected ways to defeat Lady Nightwing, the treacherous Darkhand leader. But when the trio makes a terrible choice to save Dr. Timberi, their powers may not be enough to keep everyone alive. A thrilling conclusion to the Middle School Magic series!

List your favorite “classic” TV shows. Ready? Go! (Gilligan’s Island, Mr. Ed, The Fall Guy…)

* * *

**To enter the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014, leave a thoughtful comment below.**

This is raffle-style drawing where all entries throughout the contest period are entered into the same “hat” for all prizes. Because this is a raffle-style drawing, commenting on each Countdown to Summer 2014 post will give you more chances to win. Please click through to the website as only comments submitted directly on this post will be accepted.

Prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and the author-donated books listed below. US only. 18 years and older please. See all contest rules and restrictions below.

Following LDSWBR is not required but you may want to consider doing so during the contest so you don’t miss any posts or chances to enter the drawing. You can follow us through email, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, Instagram, and Pinterest (links in our sidebar.)

If one of our reviews has ever helped you find a book you enjoyed, please consider helping us spread the word about the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014. A link posted to your friends and family either in email or on your favorite social network would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

By leaving a comment and entering the Countdown to Summer 2014, you agree to the contest rules below:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY; entrants must be 18 years or older; open to residents of continental US only; giveaway begins June 5, 2014 and all entries must be received by 12:00 Midnight June 30, 2014 Mountain Time; to enter, complete the required entry on each post and any additional entries of your choice if listed; LDS Women’s Book Review reserves the right to determine what is considered a thoughtful comment as per each post’s required entry; giveaway prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and a variety of book prizes donated by featured authors; the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning; LDS Women’s Book Review is not liable for technical problems which may affect entry into the giveaway; winner identity will be verified by email address; winner will be selected July 3, 2014 by use of a sequence generator on random.org; winner will have until July 10, 2014 to claim their prize; if any prize winner forfeits or does not claim prize, prize will be re-awarded to next winner in sequence; all prizes will be awarded; limit of two prizes per entrant; this contest/giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other entity unless otherwise specified; by entering the giveaway you give LDS Women’s Book Review the right to publicize your name on the LDS Women’s Book Review blog; winner agrees to release LDS Women’s Book Review from any liability as a result of winning; email comments and questions to LDS Women’s Book Review – ldswbr (at) gmail (dot) com; giveaway subject to Utah regulations; VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

**Book Prizes (as of 6/14/14 – more to be added to this list!)**

  • Unraveled by Julie Daines (signed paperback)
  • Any book by A.L. Sowards (choice of paperback or Kindle version)
  • An autographed copy of any one Sarah M. Eden book of the winner’s choice
  • Chances Are by Traci Hunter Abramson (signed/personalized paperback)
  • Choice of The Inventor’s Secret (hardback or paperback) or The Avatar Battle (hardback or audio CD) by Chad Morris (signed copy)
  • Missing Lily by Annette K. Larsen (ebook in .mobi or epub)
  • Glimmering Light by Margot Hovley (personalized paperback or Kindle)
  • Before the Clock Strikes Thirty by Aubrey Mace (personalized paperback)
  • Tulips and Treason by Tristi Pinkston (personalized paperback)
  • Luminescence by Braden Bell

 

Tulips and Treason by Tristi Pinkston – Countdown to Summer 2014

 Posted by  Countdown to Summer
Jun 132014
 

CD2S-2014_300

8 days until summer!

 

tristiprofilepic2012Tristi Pinkston is the author of nearly thirty books of all lengths and in all genres. She also works full-time as a freelance editor and is the president of Trifecta Books.

Visit Tristi: WEBSITE | BLOG | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

* * *

LDSWBR: What book or movie reminds you of summer?

TRISTI: This was a tough question for me to answer. I can’t think of any with a theme that reminds me most of summer, so will you take a book I read during the summer? I have very fond memories of curling up on my bed with a nice thick copy of Little Women.

LDSWBR: Do you hike during the summer? If so, where is your favorite place to hike?

TRISTI: Do I hike? What, are you trying to give me a heart attack and make me die? No, I do not hike. I occasionally hike up my skirt, but that’s about it.

LDSWBR: What is the best book you’ve read so far this year?

TRISTI: With all the editing I’ve been doing this year, I haven’t had a lot of time to read published works. I can tell you, though, that there are some great books coming out by my editing clients in the not-so-distant future!

LDSWBR: Thanks, Tristi!

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DESERET BOOK  |  BARNES & NOBLE | AMAZON | GOODREADS

 TulipsandTreason
The town of Omni has a thorny problem. Two rival crime syndicates have chosen the quiet mountains of Utah as their hideout. Now they want to join forces and become stronger than ever. When the FBI needs to send two undercover agents to infiltrate the mob, they call on Jack and Molly — field operatives of experience and skill — to pose as floral-shop-owning Mormons so they’ll blend in to the conservative background. Jack bears a resemblance to Joe Baker, notorious mob hit man, and stands the best chance at going undetected. The biggest challenge? Teaching Molly how to arrange a dozen roses. Compared to that, bringing down the Mafia will be a tiptoe through the tulips.

Have you read Little Women? Which movie version is your favorite?

* * *

**To enter the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014, leave a thoughtful comment below.**

This is raffle-style drawing where all entries throughout the contest period are entered into the same “hat” for all prizes. Because this is a raffle-style drawing, commenting on each Countdown to Summer 2014 post will give you more chances to win. Please click through to the website as only comments submitted directly on this post will be accepted.

Prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and the author-donated books listed below. US only. 18 years and older please. See all contest rules and restrictions below.

Following LDSWBR is not required but you may want to consider doing so during the contest so you don’t miss any posts or chances to enter the drawing. You can follow us through email, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, Instagram, and Pinterest (links in our sidebar.)

If one of our reviews has ever helped you find a book you enjoyed, please consider helping us spread the word about the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014. A link posted to your friends and family either in email or on your favorite social network would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

By leaving a comment and entering the Countdown to Summer 2014, you agree to the contest rules below:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY; entrants must be 18 years or older; open to residents of continental US only; giveaway begins June 5, 2014 and all entries must be received by 12:00 Midnight June 30, 2014 Mountain Time; to enter, complete the required entry on each post and any additional entries of your choice if listed; LDS Women’s Book Review reserves the right to determine what is considered a thoughtful comment as per each post’s required entry; giveaway prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and a variety of book prizes donated by featured authors; the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning; LDS Women’s Book Review is not liable for technical problems which may affect entry into the giveaway; winner identity will be verified by email address; winner will be selected July 3, 2014 by use of a sequence generator on random.org; winner will have until July 10, 2014 to claim their prize; if any prize winner forfeits or does not claim prize, prize will be re-awarded to next winner in sequence; all prizes will be awarded; limit of two prizes per entrant; this contest/giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other entity unless otherwise specified; by entering the giveaway you give LDS Women’s Book Review the right to publicize your name on the LDS Women’s Book Review blog; winner agrees to release LDS Women’s Book Review from any liability as a result of winning; email comments and questions to LDS Women’s Book Review – ldswbr (at) gmail (dot) com; giveaway subject to Utah regulations; VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

**Book Prizes (as of 6/13/14 – more to be added to this list!)**

  • Unraveled by Julie Daines (signed paperback)
  • Any book by A.L. Sowards (choice of paperback or Kindle version)
  • An autographed copy of any one Sarah M. Eden book of the winner’s choice
  • Chances Are by Traci Hunter Abramson (signed/personalized paperback)
  • Choice of The Inventor’s Secret (hardback or paperback) or The Avatar Battle (hardback or audio CD) by Chad Morris (signed copy)
  • Missing Lily by Annette K. Larsen (ebook in .mobi or epub)
  • Glimmering Light by Margot Hovley (personalized paperback or Kindle)
  • Before the Clock Strikes Thirty by Aubrey Mace (personalized paperback)
  • Tulips and Treason by Tristi Pinkston (personalized paperback)

 

Before the Clock Strikes Thirty by Aubrey Mace – Countdown to Summer 2014

 Posted by  Countdown to Summer
Jun 122014
 

CD2S-2014_300

9 days until summer!

 

aubreymaceAubrey Mace lives in Utah but every winter she considers moving somewhere warmer. She enjoys her job in an infusion center but wishes she had more time to spend with the people in her head– the ones who lure her in with the promise of a good story and never fail to surprise her. When she’s not consorting with them, she likes to hang out with her family and friends– the ones who walk the delicate line between supporting her writing addiction and keeping her grounded in reality. Aubrey has four published novels– Spare Change, My Fairy Grandmother, Santa Maybe, and Before the Clock Strikes Thirty. She also has a novella, The Science of Sentiment, which was included in the Timeless Romance Anthology Spring Vacation Collection.

Visit Aubrey:  WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER 

* * *

LDSWBR: What book or movie reminds you of summer?

AUBREY: My favorite summer book is Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury. I was assigned to read it in my sophomore English class and our teacher took us all out on the football field and we walked around barefoot in the grass. Still one of my favorite books ever; I try to read it every summer.

LDSWBR: Do you hike during the summer? If so, where is your favorite place to hike?

AUBREY: I do like to hike but I have to cover up pretty good– I love the sun, but it wants me to suffer! My favorite hike is Calf Creek Falls but I love Bryce Canyon too.

LDSWBR: What is the best book you’ve read so far this year?

AUBREY: The best book I’ve read so far this year is probably The Secret History by Donna Tartt. You already know whodunit on the first page and the story itself unfolds pretty slowly, but the character study is fascinating. Donna Tartt creates some of the most real characters I’ve ever met.

LDSWBR: Thanks, Aubrey!

* * *

DESERET BOOK | SEAGULL BOOK | BARNES & NOBLE | AMAZON | GOODREADS

41j73irFEML

With wedding festivities swirling around her, the bride’s fortune-telling aunt transfixes young Shannon Fielding. The gypsy woman foresees love in the girl’s future: before her thirtieth year, Shannon will meet the man of her dreams. The promise of romance is absolutely thrilling it’s almost enough to compensate for the groom’s annoying younger brother . . .

Shannon has remembered, and loathed, Nathan since their childhood meeting at the wedding reception that set her on a never-ending quest to find her Mr. Right. When Nathan steps back into Shannon’s life, she is forced to reconcile her memory of the obnoxious boy he once was with the endearing man he’s become. Nathan quickly becomes the best friend a girl could ask for but when their friendship threatens to develop into something more, can Shannon give up the idea of the mysterious soul mate she’s sought for so long?

What is your most memorable high school read?

* * *

**To enter the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014, leave a thoughtful comment below.**

This is raffle-style drawing where all entries throughout the contest period are entered into the same “hat” for all prizes. Because this is a raffle-style drawing, commenting on each Countdown to Summer 2014 post will give you more chances to win. Please click through to the website as only comments submitted directly on this post will be accepted.

Prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and the author-donated books listed below. US only. 18 years and older please. See all contest rules and restrictions below.

Following LDSWBR is not required but you may want to consider doing so during the contest so you don’t miss any posts or chances to enter the drawing. You can follow us through email, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, Instagram, and Pinterest (links in our sidebar.)

If one of our reviews has ever helped you find a book you enjoyed, please consider helping us spread the word about the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014. A link posted to your friends and family either in email or on your favorite social network would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

By leaving a comment and entering the Countdown to Summer 2014, you agree to the contest rules below:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY; entrants must be 18 years or older; open to residents of continental US only; giveaway begins June 5, 2014 and all entries must be received by 12:00 Midnight June 30, 2014 Mountain Time; to enter, complete the required entry on each post and any additional entries of your choice if listed; LDS Women’s Book Review reserves the right to determine what is considered a thoughtful comment as per each post’s required entry; giveaway prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and a variety of book prizes donated by featured authors; the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning; LDS Women’s Book Review is not liable for technical problems which may affect entry into the giveaway; winner identity will be verified by email address; winner will be selected July 3, 2014 by use of a sequence generator on random.org; winner will have until July 10, 2014 to claim their prize; if any prize winner forfeits or does not claim prize, prize will be re-awarded to next winner in sequence; all prizes will be awarded; limit of two prizes per entrant; this contest/giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other entity unless otherwise specified; by entering the giveaway you give LDS Women’s Book Review the right to publicize your name on the LDS Women’s Book Review blog; winner agrees to release LDS Women’s Book Review from any liability as a result of winning; email comments and questions to LDS Women’s Book Review – ldswbr (at) gmail (dot) com; giveaway subject to Utah regulations; VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

**Book Prizes (as of 6/12/14 – more to be added to this list!)**

  • Unraveled by Julie Daines (signed paperback)
  • Any book by A.L. Sowards (choice of paperback or Kindle version)
  • An autographed copy of any one Sarah M. Eden book of the winner’s choice
  • Chances Are by Traci Hunter Abramson (signed/personalized paperback)
  • Choice of The Inventor’s Secret (hardback or paperback) or The Avatar Battle (hardback or audio CD) by Chad Morris (signed copy)
  • Missing Lily by Annette K. Larsen (ebook in .mobi or epub)
  • Glimmering Light by Margot Hovley (personalized paperback or Kindle)
  • Before the Clock Strikes Thirty by Aubrey Mace (personalized paperback)

 

Glimmering Light by Margot Hovley – Countdown to Summer 2014

 Posted by  Countdown to Summer
Jun 112014
 

CD2S-2014_300

10 days until summer!

 

Margot HovleyMargot Hovley was raised in rural Washington State, where she worked as a girl pig herder and champion produce box-maker. She now lives and plays in Utah with her big family. When she’s not storytelling, she’s hanging out with family, teaching music to the somewhat-willing, and playing sports. She loves hiking, traveling, and concocting adventures.

Visit Margot: WEBSITE/BLOG | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOOGLE+ | PINTEREST

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LDSWBR: What book or movie reminds you of summer?

MARGOT: I’m nerdy so I’m going to say Star Wars, episode 3. I’m old–it came out the summer I was 14. Me and my cousins snuck away from a family reunion at Lake Couer d’alene and drove to Spokane to see it. Blown away. I was young enough that I crushed a little tiny bit on Luke.

LDSWBR: Do you hike during the summer? If so, where is your favorite place to hike?

MARGOT: I adore hiking during all four seasons, but when it’s hot hot summer, I go around 7pm until sunset. There’s nothing quite like Holbrook Canyon at sunset, for me. It’s close enough I can be hiking within 5 minutes of leaving my house. Most unforgettable hike: The Narrows. All the way. Hiking through water. LOVE.

LDSWBR: What is the best book you’ve read so far this year?

MARGOT: Not sure if it is the best of the year, but I just finished Okay For Now by Gary Schmidt. The man is a plotting genius. At first I thought I was bugged by some of the dialogue ticks but I ended up a fan.

LDSWBR: Thank you, Margot!

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DESERET BOOK | SEAGULL BOOK | BARNES & NOBLE | AMAZON | GOODREADS

Glimmering Light

In a world torn apart by an unprecedented terrorist attack, Amelie Hatch’s life has been thrown into chaos. Safety is fleeting, and there is no rest for a group of Saints fighting to survive.

Despite the looming threat of terrorism, Amelie’s safe arrival in Salt Lake City should have been the triumphant conclusion to her harrowing journey. With the promise of a future with her true love, Zack, she finds a glimmer of light amidst the bleak unrest of the nation. But Amelie and Zack quickly realize their journey is far from finished. With the nation’s power grid still compromised and enemy forces drawing closer, Utah is no longer a safe haven—it’s time to move on. And this time, they find themselves forced apart as they embark on separate missions that will test their endurance and threaten all they hold dear. Amelie can only wonder: does Missouri truly hold the key to their deliverance, or will they be forced to run forever?

Do summers mean family reunions for you? If so, where are they usually held?

* * *

**To enter the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014, leave a thoughtful comment below.**

This is raffle-style drawing where all entries throughout the contest period are entered into the same “hat” for all prizes. Because this is a raffle-style drawing, commenting on each Countdown to Summer 2014 post will give you more chances to win. Please click through to the website as only comments submitted directly on this post will be accepted.

Prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and the author-donated books listed below. US only. 18 years and older please. See all contest rules and restrictions below.

Following LDSWBR is not required but you may want to consider doing so during the contest so you don’t miss any posts or chances to enter the drawing. You can follow us through email, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, Instagram, and Pinterest (links in our sidebar.)

If one of our reviews has ever helped you find a book you enjoyed, please consider helping us spread the word about the LDSWBR Countdown to Summer 2014. A link posted to your friends and family either in email or on your favorite social network would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

By leaving a comment and entering the Countdown to Summer 2014, you agree to the contest rules below:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY; entrants must be 18 years or older; open to residents of continental US only; giveaway begins June 5, 2014 and all entries must be received by 12:00 Midnight June 30, 2014 Mountain Time; to enter, complete the required entry on each post and any additional entries of your choice if listed; LDS Women’s Book Review reserves the right to determine what is considered a thoughtful comment as per each post’s required entry; giveaway prizes include a $50 Amazon gift card and a variety of book prizes donated by featured authors; the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning; LDS Women’s Book Review is not liable for technical problems which may affect entry into the giveaway; winner identity will be verified by email address; winner will be selected July 3, 2014 by use of a sequence generator on random.org; winner will have until July 10, 2014 to claim their prize; if any prize winner forfeits or does not claim prize, prize will be re-awarded to next winner in sequence; all prizes will be awarded; limit of two prizes per entrant; this contest/giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other entity unless otherwise specified; by entering the giveaway you give LDS Women’s Book Review the right to publicize your name on the LDS Women’s Book Review blog; winner agrees to release LDS Women’s Book Review from any liability as a result of winning; email comments and questions to LDS Women’s Book Review – ldswbr (at) gmail (dot) com; giveaway subject to Utah regulations; VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

**Book Prizes (as of 6/12/14 – more to be added to this list!)**

  • Unraveled by Julie Daines (signed paperback)
  • Any book by A.L. Sowards (choice of paperback or Kindle version)
  • An autographed copy of any one Sarah M. Eden book of the winner’s choice
  • Chances Are by Traci Hunter Abramson (signed/personalized paperback)
  • Choice of The Inventor’s Secret (hardback or paperback) or The Avatar Battle (hardback or audio CD) by Chad Morris (signed copy)
  • Missing Lily by Annette K. Larsen (ebook in .mobi or epub)
  • Glimmering Light by Margot Hovley (personalized paperback or Kindle)

 

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