Book Review Friday - The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan #bookreview #percyjackson

Book Review for: The Son of Neptune

Written by: Rick Riordan

Hyperion Books

ISBN: 978-1-4231-4059-7

Available in print and ebook

5 Stars

Percy Jackson is back with a taunt, suspenseful quest in "The Son of Neptune." Percy's lost his memory, but is guided to the Roman demigod city, "Camp Jupiter" where he meets Hazel and Frank. A demigod's work is never done, though. Percy and his friends are given a quest by Mars to free Thanatos (Death) from Gaea's giant, Alcyoneus. Against impossible odds can they succeed?

The novel opens with gorgons chasing Percy. While re realizes his memory is gone, he knows this – the gorgons are supposed to remain dead when he kills them. Weary to the bone, he finds Juno disguised as a "hippie" and manages to make it to the safety of Camp Jupiter with the help of his new friends, Hazel and Frank. The Romans accept Percy, and soon he's selected to go on a quest to Alaska with Hazel and Frank to free Death. (Thanatos)

Riordan's writing engages the senses. Quick and easy to read, Riordan layers his words with subtle clues and emotional nuances that are easy to miss if one reads to quickly. The plot moves at a brisk pace, keeping the reader flipping the pages. Tight and suspenseful, the story hints at secrets, which threaten to turn Percy's world upside-down.

Riordan's characters are interesting, filled with human faults, which make them relatable to younger readers. Percy is fearless, but out of his element. Hazel is brave, but doubts her choices. Frank is unsure, but faces his fears with true courage. What Riordan does well is bring the Greek and Roman myths into a modern world, giving them a unique story that is appealing to today's young adult audience.

"The Son of Neptune" engages all the senses. It will take your breath away and make your heart pound in your chest. The novel is geared for a young adult audience and I recommend it for readers ten and up.

Question for you: What do you think of the Percy Jackson movies?  Which one did you like better? Do you think the books capture the "flavor" of the books? Why or why not.

Book Review Tuesday - A Girlfriend's Guide Through Infertility #bookreview #infertility

Review for: A Girlfriend's Guide Through Infertility

Written by: Alicia Preston and Gina Bracci

Self-Published

Avail as an ebook and in paperback

4 Stars

Bracci and Preston write a powerful and all-encompassing book about the struggles of infertility with "A Girlfriend's Guide Through Infertility." Both Bracci and Preston share their stories and challenges with an honesty and candor that will touch your heart.

Anyone struggling with infertility will be able to relate to the authors' moving and poignant stories. I was moved to learn the depth of emotional pain that those dealing with infertility go through. What I appreciated about the authors' stories was how they offered hope in the face of adversity.

The authors take a candid look at environment and biological issues that may impact fertility. I found the chapters on Lysol douching and tampons very informative. The most interesting chapter was on gluten and how it affects the human body. The chapter on the "pill" had a lot of good information as well.

The writing is easy to read and captures the authors' sincerity. The material is well researched with a comprehensive list of research notes.

After reading, the depth of negative emotion that can overtake one amazed me. I also learned how hope can drive the human condition. I discovered how important it is to do your own research on those issues that are important to you. I would recommend this book for women of childbearing age. "A Girlfriend's Guide Through Infertility" is a poignant read that will tug on the heartstrings.

This book is available on Amazon as an ebook and in paperback. 

Snippet Sunday - 1.99 Fantasy Romance: The Green Rose #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my Fantasy Romance: The Green Rose. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at: www.wewriwa.blogspot.com

This snippet:   Ivanstan and Sonia determine a course of action. 

*****

A chill descended over Ivánstan. "The nobles were meeting here to sign a trade agreement. We must check the other houses."

"Aye, but I need to go after my father--" Sonia straightened, and an anxious look crossed her expression.

Ivánstan placed a hand on her shoulder, sensing her tense muscles, and looked at her. Warmth infused his hand. "With your father kidnapped, you rule in his stead, let us assess the situation and then determine the best course of action." 

****
The Green Rose is a Fantasy Romance that takes place on the continent of Gaia. 

Reviews for: 

4 Stars, InD'Tales Magazine: JUL/AUG 2013

"An engaging tale with a complete story all wrapped up in one tidy package." - Leslie Stokes, InD'Tales Magazine. 

5 Stars, Scorching Book Reviews

I don't read much romantic fantasy, but this was so well structured and so lovely, I could not put it down. 

4 Stars, Laura Carter for Reader's Favorites:

I loved the characters of Ivánstan and Sonia and the romance growing between them is sweet and believable.

****
YOU TUBE VIDEO:


BUY LINKS:

PUBLISHER'S SITE

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-280/The-Green-Rose-Stephanie/Detail.bok

AMAZON KINDLE:

http://amzn.com/B007QUBU2E

BARNES & NOBLE NOOK:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1109853031

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thegreenrose-769936-143.html

SONY EBOOKS:

http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/stephanie-burkhart/the-green-rose/_/R-400000000000000673505 

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

Book Review Tuesday: Divergent by Veronica Roth #bookreview #divergent

Book Review for: Divergent

Written by: Veronica Roth

Katherine Tegen Books

ISBN: 978-0-06202403-0

Avail: ebook and paperback

5 Stars

Roth pens a mesmerizing, heart-pounding novel with "Divergent." Set in the future, Beatrice "Tris" must choose a faction when she turns sixteen. The choice isn't easy. There are five factions that revolve around the following: honesty, peace, selflessness, fearlessness, and knowledge. If you show an aptitude for more than one faction are divergent.

Divergent is not what you want to be. Beatrice's futuristic society rejects the divergent. They are the unknown denominator. They put the world at risk with their unanticipated behavior. Beatrice chooses bravery and select Dauntless as her faction.

Being an initiate in Dauntless isn't what Tris expected. She's tested physically, mentally, and emotionally through the use of simulations developed by the Erudite, which are administered by serums. As Tris discovers Dauntless' divisions, can she find true bravery in herself to expose the truth?

Roth's writing is fast paced, daring the reader to keep up. She paints her futuristic society with just enough brushstrokes to envision Beatrice's world as dark and gloomy, leaving the reader to wonder what caused the world's fate and how long will it remain bleak?

Beatrice is a strong female character who drives the story. Four is mysterious and quiet, not sharing his confidences lightly. As the story progresses, the plot takes off at breakneck speed. Dare Beatrice reveal she is divergent to stop a deadly plot that will ruin two factions? "Divergent" will take you on a roller coaster thrill ride that will leave you breathless.

QUESTION: Have you read Divergent or the books in the series? What did you think? Are you looking forward to the movie? 

Snippet Sunday: $1.99 Fantasy Romance; The Green Rose #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my Fantasy Romance: The Green Rose. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at: www.wewriwa.blogspot.com

This snippet:   Cason explains what happened to Sonia's father 

*****

Cason paused and glanced at Sonia. "I'm sorry, but your father appeared drugged, possibly wounded. A wyldebeast carried him. The wizard opened a portal to a heavily forested area with a steep tower that appeared to be constructed out of granite. I called out, but the wizard blasted me with a flash of lightning from his hand and then disappeared."

Sonia clenched her fists, anger flashed in her falcon-like eyes. "Did you believe my father to be alive?"

****
The Green Rose is a Fantasy Romance that takes place on the continent of Gaia. 

Reviews for: 

4 Stars, InD'Tales Magazine: JUL/AUG 2013

"An engaging tale with a complete story all wrapped up in one tidy package." - Leslie Stokes, InD'Tales Magazine. 

5 Stars, Scorching Book Reviews

I don't read much romantic fantasy, but this was so well structured and so lovely, I could not put it down. 

4 Stars, Laura Carter for Reader's Favorites:

I loved the characters of Ivánstan and Sonia and the romance growing between them is sweet and believable.

****
YOU TUBE VIDEO:


BUY LINKS:

PUBLISHER'S SITE

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-280/The-Green-Rose-Stephanie/Detail.bok

AMAZON KINDLE:

http://amzn.com/B007QUBU2E

BARNES & NOBLE NOOK:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1109853031

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thegreenrose-769936-143.html

SONY EBOOKS:

http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/stephanie-burkhart/the-green-rose/_/R-400000000000000673505 

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

Enjoy St. Valentine's Day! #saintvalentinesday

Ah, February, the month of love dedicated to St. Valentine. Yet Valentine's story is mired in myth and legend. No one knows the definitive background of this romantic Saint, but we do know he existed – and inspired long ago.

What we do know isn't much. Archaeologists have uncovered a tomb in the Old Roman catacombs dedicated to the Saint. In 496 A.D., 14 February was declared a day of honor to the Saint by Pope Gelassius.

There are three prevailing myths surrounding Valentine. The first one dates back to when Claudius II was Emperor of Rome, in the 3^rd Century A.D. (270 A.D., to be exact) Claudius determined single men made better soldiers and forbid the Roman soldiers to marry. Valentine, a priest, defied Claudius and married the soldiers. When Claudius found out what Valentine was doing, he had him put to death.  

The second myth, which could easily blend into the first, had Valentine in jail. (Probably awaiting his fate that Claudius had decreed)  While in prison, Valentine fell in love with the jailor's daughter. Before he was put to death, he sent her a letter and signed it, "From Your Valentine," thus, staring an expression that you can still find on Valentine cards today.

The third myth, which again, could easily blend into the first and second, making this all one myth, involves the pagan Roman celebration called Lupercalia. The Romans considered February the start of spring and with the onset of spring, they found it a time for purification. Houses were cleaned and swept. Salt and wheat were sprinkled throughout their home as part of their custom of purification. Lupercalia began on the Ides of February (15 February) and dedicated to the Roman god of fertility as well as the Roman founders of Romulus and Remus.

The church had a habit of taking pagan Roman celebrations and fitting them into the calendar to make them more "politically correct." It was Pope Gelassius who outlawed Lupercalia, and it was believe St. Valentine's feast day replaced it in order to "Christianize" the pagan ritual.

While the official reason has been lost to history, I don't see why all three of these myths can't be melded together to found the basis of the day we celebrate now.

Interestingly, different cultures nowadays have different takes on the 14^th of February. In the Western world, cards, flowers, and chocolates are traditional gifts. In Finland, it's known as Friend's Day and it extends to friends as well as loved one.

In Turkey, the day is known as Sweetheart's Day. Interesting since most of Turkey follows Islam. In most Asian countries, notably Japan, the only recognition of St. Valentine's Day is a custom where only the women give men chocolate. There is a reply day for the men to return the favor to the women.

Countries like India, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan try to have the holiday banned. At a minimum, the governments in those countries discourage participation, but there is a thriving black market of roses and wrapping paper.

Information taken from Online Sources including Wikipedia.

Question for you: Do you exchange Valentines?  What do you like to give for Valentines? What do you do for the Holiday? 

Super Book Blast for: Summertime Dream by Babette James #superbookblast #goddessfish

BLURB:

The Fourth of July is over, but for these summer lovers the fireworks have just begun.

An unexpected inheritance brings business consultant Christopher Gordon from Los Angeles to quaint Falk’s Bend. He’s carved a week from his demanding schedule to list his great-grandparents’ house for sale and explore his roots. However, disturbing family secrets and the sweet temptation of writer Margie Olsson derail his plans, challenging him to seize the elusive dream missing from his hectic life — love.

A recent brush with death shook Margie’s life, but not her dreams and she’s ready to move forward. Only, standing up to her loving, over-protective family isn’t easy. Helping Christopher explore the derelict mansion and unravel his grandmother’s mysterious past should be a harmless fun taste of independence. But when her experimental summer fling ignites into unexpected love, how can her small town dreams work with his big city life?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT: 

Margie laughed. “Of course, in my dreams it was a bit less rundown.”

“I’d imagine so. Interested in buying?”

“Oh, if only I could, I would in an instant. I’m sure the property alone is worth far more than I can afford.  It’s a huge piece of land. And the repairs and restoration...” Longing swelled. She sighed. Someone else would buy and live in her dream home.

Quiet fell between them for a while. Bees buzzed in the clover. Birds sang, chirped, and flitted. A hummingbird whizzed past. Two more ducks joined the first amid quiet bickering quacks. Dandelion fluff drifted by on an unfelt breeze.

A truck rattled down the lane, breaking the moment.

“Suppose we ought to head back...” Christopher turned, so close their arms brushed, but instead of retreating, he hesitated. Their eyes locked. Where dismay and frustration had filled his green eyes, want simmered. The heavy air electrified.

You need a change.

On a surge of bewildering crazy courage, she stretched up and kissed him. The brief brush of lips to lips left her shaken and her heart pounding, like she had  just come up for air.

His eyes widened in his serious, craggy face.

No, oh, no. Blowing out an unsteady breath, she pressed a hand to her stomach. She’d carried her day’s adventure one impetuous step too far. Her heroines were the daring part of her. She’d never even kissed on a first date before, and this wasn’t even a date.

Before the apology fluttering in her mind could break free, he cupped her cheek and touched his mouth down on hers.

GIVEAWAY

Babette will award a $10 Amazon GC to two (2) randomly drawn commenters during the tour, and a $10 Amazon GC to one (1) randomly drawn host.
Followw Babette on tour and leave a comment. the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. :) The tour dates can be found here: 

http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2014/01/virtual-super-book-blast-tour.html

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Babette James writes sweetly scorching contemporary romance and loves reading nail-biting tales with a satisfying happily ever after. When not dreaming up stories, she enjoys playing with new bread recipes and dabbling with paints. A teacher, she loves encouraging new readers and writers as they discover their growing abilities. Her class cheers when it’s time for their spelling test! Born in New Jersey and raised in Southern California, she’s had a life-long love of the desert and going down the shore. Babette now lives in New Jersey with her wonderfully patient husband and extremely spoiled cats.

Summertime Dream on Amazon.com Kindle: http://amzn.com/B00HJDS3E6

Summertime Dream on all other Amazon venues: http://viewbook.at/SummertimeDream

Website: http://babettejames.com/

 Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/ltvyP

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BabetteJames

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Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/118275338266952747490

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/babettejames

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/babettejames/

Happy Birthday to the USO #uso

I just wanted to give a shout out to the USO (United Service Organization) this month.  They turned 73 on 4 FEB 2014!

As a soldier, I really appreciated the USO, especially when I was deployed in Hungary.  I spent 3 months in Taszur, Hungary from JUL – OCT 1997 in support of US soldiers in Bosnia.  The USO had a small facility, but I loved to hang out there on my off time. They had used books, used videotapes, games, and even offered trips.  I had a chance to go on an USO trip to Budapest and it's a time that I'll never forget.

The USO was created in 1941. President Roosevelt requested six different "services" come together to make one to provide morale support for the US Troops. Those services did that and founded the USO. Today, the USO is in 14 different countries around the world.

The USO relies on private contributions, funds, goods, and services that they receive from corporate and individual donors. It's also a nonprofit organization.  Being a veteran, I can't tell you how much the USO and its activities mean to deployed troops. It's a great nonprofit organization to give to if you want to support the men and women in the military.

Interesting Note: Last year, the Kroger Corporation (aka Ralphs on the West Coast) donated 3.2 million to the USO.

One of the things the USO is known for is being entertainment to the troops.  Bob Hope was quick to jump on board.  He entertained troops in the field from 1941 to 1991. His last Christmas with the military was in 1990 during Operation Desert Shield.  Since he was in Saudi Arabia, Ann Jillian, Marie Osmond, and the Pointer Sisters were left out because they had to be veiled in public.

Interesting Note:  Prescott Bush was the 2^nd chairman of the USO in the 1940's. He went on to become a US Senator.  He's the father of President George HW Bush and grandfather of George W Bush.

You can find out more about the USO at the following:

http://www.uso.org

Question for you: Do you have any thoughts on the USO?

Book Review Tuesday: Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich #bookreview #janetevanovich

Book Review for: Two for the Dough

Written by: Janet Evanovich

St. Martin's Press

ISBN: 978-0-312-94896-2

Avail as an ebook and paperback

4.5 Stars

Evanovich pens a deliciously satisfying sequel to her Stephanie Plum series with "Two for the Dough." Set in contemporary New Jersey, Stephanie is a bounty hunter. Her task? Bring in Kenny Mancuso. It's a windfall, but catching Kenny proves a challenge.

"Two for the Dough," effortlessly captures the fun of the first novel. Joe Morelli is back as a vice officer on the hunt for Kenny and as a distraction for Stephanie. Grandma Mazur is just as crazy as she was in the first novel, but now she's got a .45 magnum. Stephanie's also hired to find 24 lost coffins by Spiro. She's got her hands full.

Stephanie's still a novice at bounty hunting, but soon learns Kenny, along with his buddies, Moogey and Spiro, were up to smuggling weapons. Everyone wants a piece of Kenny – his ex-girlfriend, Spiro, the cops, and of course, Stephanie. Can she get the "dough" before Kenny carries through on his threats?

Evanovich's writing style is easy to read and thoroughly engaging. The supporting cast of characters also add their own spice. The plot is very solid. Evanovich plants subtle clues that are easy to miss between the hijinks and deadly intentions. Evanovich captures elements of humor, mystery, crime, and romance and bundles them all up in a great story. "Two for the Dough" is a definite page turner.

Question: Are you a Janet Evanovich fan?  What's your favorite novel by Janet? 

Smiles

Steph

Just in time for the Winter Olympics in SOCHI! 99 cent sweet contemporary romance: 

Will Famke and Christian make the Pairs ice skating team for the Netherlands or will their attraction get in the way? 

Five 5 Star Reviews. "A well written story I couldn't put down. - Delores Goodrick Beggs.

A Jimmy Thomas cover!  Avail for your Kindle.

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Maks rubbed his chin with his finger, deep in thought. "Do you remember your short program?"

"Yes."

"Skate it for me."

Famke glanced at Chris and his smile grew, revealing that dimple she liked. Encouraged, she went onto the ice, set herself in the middle of the rink, then began the routine. She performed her step sequence with precision and her jumps flawlessly. When she finished, Chris clapped, beaming with enthusiasm. She skated to the side. Maks grunted. She hoped he approved.

"In pairs skating you must allow your partner to throw you and lift you. I will teach you. Can you do this?"

She glanced at Chris. "Yes, of course."

Chris' expression sobered a bit.

Maks pointed to Chris. "I want a simple pair spin and then throw her into a salchow jump."

"All right." He offered his palm to Famke and she grasped his hand. His skin was cold, but a warm pulse of attraction rushed down her arm.

Chris leaned close. "I'll put my hands on your waist and throw you. Don't be afraid if you can't get the landing right away. We have to learn each other's rhythms."

"I'll be fine," she replied.

First they worked on the spin, and after a few minutes they found the balance in their rotational speed. Famke glanced at Maks and Stephen. Her brother grinned from ear-to-ear, but Maks frowned and rubbed his chin, scowling.

Famke skated away from Chris, then re-approached, building speed, remaining completely focused, having never been thrown before. Chris reached out, grabbed her waist, lifted her, and threw her. Famke liked the height, performed the salchow, but her landing was too hard. She stumbled, but remained on her feet. Chris skated to her and grasped her arm. She righted herself. Their eyes locked. Famke discovered Chris' expression was filled with deep concern. 

"Are you okay?" he asked.

"I'm fine."

Maks crossed his arms. "Not bad, but you need practice – a lot of practice. I want to see an overhead lift." 

BUY LINK: 

http://amzn.com/B00DPV86E8

Snippet Sunday: 1.99 Fantasy Romance: The Green Rose #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my Fantasy Romance: The Green Rose. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at: www.wewriwa.blogspot.com

This snippet:   Sonia and Ivanstan make more discoveries.

*****

She nodded, giving him a certain amount of respect in her expression before addressing
the Tapin soldier. "Electra, where's my father?"

The woman pointed toward a rip in the rear of the tent. Two slain guards with deep slash
marks across their faces lay in front of the opening. Hiro, the falcon, moved from Sonia's arm to her shoulder.

"A man in a dark cloak drugged your father while the wyldebeasts attacked the royal guard. I saw what happened from a distance, but when I arrived, your father's guards were dead."

 A groan escaped from outside the hole. Ivánstan looked out of the torn fabric and discovered Cason in a sitting position, rubbing his head.  

****
The Green Rose is a Fantasy Romance that takes place on the continent of Gaia. 

Reviews for: 

4 Stars, InD'Tales Magazine: JUL/AUG 2013

"An engaging tale with a complete story all wrapped up in one tidy package." - Leslie Stokes, InD'Tales Magazine. 

5 Stars, Scorching Book Reviews

I don't read much romantic fantasy, but this was so well structured and so lovely, I could not put it down. 

4 Stars, Laura Carter for Reader's Favorites:

I loved the characters of Ivánstan and Sonia and the romance growing between them is sweet and believable.

****

BUY LINKS:

PUBLISHER'S SITE

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-280/The-Green-Rose-Stephanie/Detail.bok

AMAZON KINDLE:

http://amzn.com/B007QUBU2E

BARNES & NOBLE NOOK:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1109853031

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thegreenrose-769936-143.html

SONY EBOOKS:

http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/stephanie-burkhart/the-green-rose/_/R-400000000000000673505 

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

Virtual Book Tour: The Prayer by Jacqueline von Zwehl from Goddess Fish Promotions #goddessfishpromotions

The Prayer, a Love Story

by Jacqueline von Zwehl

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BLURB:

Do you Believe in Miracles?

Do you Believe in Eternal Love?

Do you Believe in Answered Prayers?

YOU WILL

The Prayer, A Love Story is the inspirational true story of one woman who discovers the secret to living a life filled with miracles, unconditional love and answered prayers.

The journey begins with a divine promise, continues with unforeseen life challenges, and eventually leads to Jerusalem. Inside the Old City, a prayer will unlock the key to a life of miracles. This journey is proof heaven is real and its gifts are available to you now. Whether you have stopped believing in God or not, God believes in you.

The journey holds a promise for everyone. No matter how much darkness exists in your life, it cannot diminish the flicker of even the tiniest light. That light will lead you to your destiny and it will change your life forever.

Interview with Jacqueline von Zwehl author of "The Prayer:"

QUESTION:    What is the sweetest thing someone has done for you? 

JACQUELINE: My husband showers me with little surprises of sweetness every day like coming home with flowers, surprising me with a card, taking us out to a surprise dinner in the middle of the week.  I am truly the luckiest and happiest woman in the world.

QUESTION:     Can you describe your dream home?  

JACQUELINE: That's easy, I'm living in it.  I envisioned it in my dreams and it's amazing how dreams come true.  It's a historical home built in 1927 and registered with the historical society.  The house has been fully restored and updated but still has character, charm, and sings in your ear of a bygone era.  It's a pink/corral color.  I know what you're thinking Pink??  In Florida that's not weird, more corral than pink, but just regal and stunning.  Situated right on the water and we get to see all the boats come and go all day. 

QUESTION:     What is your least favorite word?

JACQUELINE:   Can't - it doesn't exist in my vocabulary.

QUESTION:  Where do you get your best ideas?  

JACQUELINE: The ocean, the beach, lakes, water - I seem to be inspired around water.

QUESTION:    What do you do to relax? 

JACQUELINE: Cooking, exercise, running on the beach, reading.

ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

Wedding Day

I often wonder about the idea of a miracle. Is it something you feel? Can you see it? Or is it some- thing you just know? Miracle is a very big word, perhaps best saved for big events like the birth of a baby or the first man walking on the moon.

As I ponder this thought, I’m surrounded by lovely, fresh-cut flowers. Isn’t the blossoming of these flowers a miracle? A tiny little seed in the ground, nurtured with rich soil, water, and light, grows to reveal its unique beauty. When we look at the seed, we can’t see the miracle. It’s only later, after its potential has been manifested, we realize what that seed carried all along. Isn’t that how we all are? On the journey of our destiny in this life, all of us start as seeds. Some of us are still in  the  ground, waiting  to  grow. Some  of us have sprouted a few leaves, and some of us have fully blossomed. Is the miracle the blossoming of the flower, or is the miracle knowing with certainty that everything is already in the seed? Yes, for me it always comes down to certainty. When all I can see is a seed in the ground, the miracle is certainty in my knowl- edge of what the seed is destined to become.

These were the thoughts I recorded in my journal on the morning of our wedding. I have heard that most brides wake up jittery and full of excitement, perhaps thinking about their hair and make-up, the excitement of the day ahead, and how the weather will hold up. I woke up and started writing.

‘What is a miracle? Today I will get married. I will marry the man who makes my heart sing and who was sent as the answer to my prayer. A man who calls me his miracle. Today is our seed, the first day of our journey as husband and wife.We don’t know how our seed will grow. We don’t know how many leaves will bloom or what its flower will look like. We don’t know what storms we’ll face. We do know with certainty that this seed is our destiny. It is our miracle.’

We were all ready. The driver took my hand and escorted me to my seat in the limo.

GIVEAWAY:

Prizes for the tour are as follows:

• One randomly chosen commenter will win a $50 Amazon/BN.com gift card.

• Two randomly chosen hosts will each receive a $25 Amazon/BN.com gift card.

  

Enter to win a $50 Amazon/BN gift card – A Rafflecopter giveaway

The more you comment, the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here: 

http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2013/12/virtual-book-tour-prayer-by-jacqueline.html

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Jacqueline von Zwehl, is a faith based relationship expert. She holds a BFA from New York University and a MBA from Pennsylvania State University. Jacqueline travels the country as a motivational speaker encouraging singles on the path to finding their soul mates. She has appeared on Nite Line, The Harvest Show, EWTN, TCT TV, Victory TV, CatholicTV, Telecare, Changing Lives, CatholicLife, That's the Spirit, The Church, The Cardinal and You, NPR, and more. Jacqueline lives in Fort Lauderdale, FL with her husband Christopher, their two daughters and dog. The Prayer, A Love Story is her debut book. Jacqueline von Zwehl, is a faith based relationship expert. She holds a BFA from New York University and a MBA from Pennsylvania State University. Jacqueline travels the country as a motivational speaker encouraging singles on the path to finding their soul mates. She has appeared on Nite Line, The Harvest Show, EWTN, TCT TV, Victory TV, CatholicTV, Telecare, Changing Lives, CatholicLife, That's the Spirit, The Church, The Cardinal and You, NPR, and more. Jacqueline lives in Fort Lauderdale, FL with her husband Christopher, their two daughters and dog. The Prayer, A Love Story is her debut book.

Read Jacqueline's Blog at www.jackievonzwehl.com

Become a Fan: www.facebook.com/JackieVonZwehl

Follow: www.twitter.com/JackieVonZwehl

Author Profile:www.goodreads.com/jackievonzwehl

 Amazon Paperback

http://www.amazon.com/Prayer-Love-Story-Jacqueline-Zwehl/dp/1939819008/ref=la_B00DY9W62Y_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1383163807&sr=1-1

Amazon Kindle

http://www.amazon.com/Prayer-Love-Story-Unconditional-ebook/dp/B00G8QTDKI/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1383164024&sr=1-3&keywords=the+prayer+a+love+story