Cover Reveal: NEW How a Star Falls by Amber Stokes

It's the one-year anniversary for How a Star Falls by Amber Stokes! And today we'll be revealing it's NEW cover, along with giveaways and all that fun! *smiles*

                                                 A Note from the Author

A year ago today (November 18^th), my little star story, How a Star Falls, landed on Amazon. I’m thrilled to celebrate the anniversary of its release with you by introducing a brand-new cover (where the hero, Derrick, makes an appearance) and sharing a fun giveaway with prizes from some of my favorite Etsy shops!

If you journeyed with Derrick and Brielle when their story first released, thank you for allowing them into your heart. And if this will be your first time meeting them, I hope you’ll be encouraged by their story and reminded of the hope of Psalm 138:8: “The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me.”

Blessings through life’s seasons!

~Amber

About the Book

Sweet New Adult Contemporary Romance Novella

How does a star fall?
Quickly. Completely. Unexpectedly.

Derrick Knolane escapes to Trinidad Head most evenings, avoiding his apartment and planning for the day he'll break free of Humboldt County. Working in a music store might be fine for a while, but it's far from the goal he had in mind when he got his college degree. Not to mention the fact that his roommate is a jerk and his family won't stop trying to run his life.

Then Brielle falls into his world.

She claims to be a star. Not from Hollywood, but from heaven. He thinks she's crazy. Certainly delusional. Yet, he can't just leave her alone on the cliffs. So he takes her home.

And his whole world falls apart.

A heartfelt and fanciful contemporary romance novella, How a Star Falls explores the uncertain season of new adulthood and shows that sometimes the worst inconveniences make for the best miracles of all.

This novella is available in the following formats:

2-hour unabridged audiobook ($6.95)

Paperback ($6.99)

Kindle ebook ($.99)

Author Bio

Amber Stokes works as a marketing content writer for a Christian publisher. On the side, she self-publishes inspirational fiction depicting the seasons of life and love. Her passion for books compelled her to earn a bachelor's degree in English and run her own freelance editing and publicity business for over a year. Happily, this chapter of her career takes place in the Pacific Northwest—a part of the world she's always considered home.

You can learn more about Amber’s books, sign up for her author newsletter, join the Amber’s Gems street team, and more at www.SeasonsofaStory.blogspot.com.

Cover Designer Bio

Lena Goldfinch writes inspirational historical romance and books for teens. She’s always been a sucker for a good old-fashioned romance, whether it’s a novel or short story, young adult or adult, fantasy or realistic, contemporary or historical. Lena has been a finalist in several national writing contests, including the RWA Golden Heart and ACFW Genesis contests. She enjoys life in a quiet small town with her husband, two kids, and two very spoiled black Labs.

Visit Lena at www.LenaGoldfinch.com.

Giveaway!

Fill out the form below to enter to win one of three prizes from some of the author’s favorite Etsy shops! The prizes are…

• ·         Sparkle Green and Red Christmas Earrings from Baubles, Beads and Stuff
• ·         Silver Compass Crystal Charm Necklace from Jaye L. Knight
• ·         Santa Bunyan Note Cards (Set of 3) from Cindy Lindgren

Why these prizes? The earrings include stars, which fit this occasion for obvious reasons. ;) The compass is a reference to a song mentioned in the story: “If My Heart Was a House” by Owl City (you can listen HERE). And the cards are a little teaser for my next contemporary romance, Where Trains Collide. (Let’s just say the hero’s nickname is Paul Bunyan. Can you guess the heroine’s nickname?)

Note: Giveaway is open to US residents only due to shipping costs.

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Book Sale on Black Friday!

Hey guys! Christian indie authors are coming together this year to offer great Black Friday sales!! Twenty-three authors and over seventy books are going to be a part of this!! ^_^ So please take a moment to fill out the survey below to give us some ideas! *smiles*

P.S. Bloggers, there's a spot on the form where you can sign up to share about the upcoming sales ... and get some free books in the process!

Book Review: Chasing Shadows by Ashley Townsend

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Title: Chasing Shadows

Author: Ashley Townsend

Series: Rising Shadows #2

Genre: Time-travel/Fantasy

Audience: Young Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Would you choose to entwine your fate with a hero of the past, even if it meant altering the future?

The murder of an ancient king spurs Sarah Matthews to travel back in time, putting her life in jeopardy as she races against the clock to solve a thousand-year-old mystery and pick up the pieces of her star-crossed romance. Her return to Serimone reveals that the kingdom is in upheaval and that the elusive Cadius has sinister plans for the throne. Unable to right the empire alone, Sarah reunites with Will, the love she left behind and the man beneath the Shadow’s hood. As they work together amidst lavish balls and explore the secret depths of the castle, they discover that the conspiracy runs deeper than they ever imagined. And when a counterfeit Shadow claims the life of someone close to her after a personal threat from Cadius himself, Sarah discovers that the price of questioning the new regime is a life.

Guilt-ridden and alone, she discovers comfort in her newfound friendship with Damien, a charming Spaniard who joins Sarah in her personal crusade for justice. But as she draws closer to his dark past and to the faceless killer in their midst, she realizes that the severed threads of time and the mystery surrounding Serimone Castle are unraveling rapidly, weaving new tapestries of devastation.

In this thrilling and deceptive sequel to "Rising Shadows," Sarah is forced into harm’s way countless times as she races to solve the puzzle before it is too late and Serimone becomes nothing more than a faded memory of the past ... And before Sarah becomes a permanent fixture in history.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

A lovely sequel to Rising Shadows by Ashley Townsend, Chasing Shadows deepened the storyline; drew me nearer to the characters; grew a certain love story …

Sarah Matthews is trying to forget her time-travel experience. College is about to start, and she’s in a frenzy to prepare for moving out – her room a mess. But in a whole different realm, a royal has died, foul play is suspected, and a young man longs for Sarah to return. She wistfully keeps a special necklace … but would have never expected the person who arrives on her doorstep one day.

In Serimone, new adventures and escapades abound. New romantic interests, danger, suspense, sweetness, and working through tangled relationships.

What Sarah thought was in the past is definitely not over yet.

Alright, so the beginning of Chasing Shadows could feel a little long. But not exactly dragging; because by the end of this book, I just feel it’s a beautiful, epic, exciting story that you can’t wait to dive back into! Something about long books where you’re simply getting to know the characters a bit before you really get into the action … they’re great! I really enjoyed going back to Chasing Shadows pages again and again; and am so happy that it graces my bookshelf! I also felt that came about more smoothly, clearer, and satisfactory than the first book; so good job, Ashley Townsend! Excited to see where Defying Shadows brings us!

Sarah … I got way more frustrated with her in this book! That horrid love triangle! I just do not understand girls who lead on two guys for like, forever. (Think Katniss and Gale and Peeta. Grrr.) So there were a few times when I wanted to give Sarah a good talking to. Ha. Like, stop fooling around and acting so oblivious and silly, and fight for the man who you truly love! But I will say, by the end of the book, I understood a lot more why Sarah acted the way she did. It wasn’t really so much a love triangle after all … Well, you’ll see. In any case, I do see why Sarah did what she did. It’s understandable. So there was a little bit of a warning theme of guarding one’s heart, which I appreciated.

I loved getting to know Will even better, and delving into his character more! *Sigh* There were a few instances when he really needed to step up and take the lead, I think; but overall, he was sweet, heroic, strong, and just … swoon-y. *wink* Haha. But truly, he’s a really valiant young man, who has a tragic past, and is broken on the inside, but too stubborn to let himself be healed. Really rooting for this guy, and hoping for really beautiful things to come in the next book!

Of course, we have Seth and Karen, each who I liked even better in this book! A new dashing young man is introduced, Damien. The charming, wealthy, fun-loving guy who causes all kinds of complications in this story! *grins* Are you intrigued yet? You should be! There were a few other new characters too, who were all fun to meet! Not sure yet what to think of Jade, and the rather shocking revelation of her. Eek! What can this all mean??

As for romance, besides the love triangle deal, I really enjoyed it! ^_^ There were sweet moments, funny moments, heart-rending moments, exciting moments! I liked how Ashley Townsend explored their feelings in the awkward and the good moments. There was uncomfortableness. Caution. Tenderness. I enjoyed a certain young man’s chivalry and how he was gentlemanly with Sarah and concerned about her reputation and whatnot. That all being said, I would recommend at least sixteen and up as for audience for Chasing Shadows. Some compromising situations are indicated, scandal mentioned time and again, awkward moments muddled through. Yeah. The main character is eighteen, so it’s probably actually more suitable for that age and up. But then again, this series probably has a more YA feel. So, whatever. I didn’t feel that there was anything inappropriate or even overly sensual. Overall, very sweet. Though quite real at times.

There was a little more of a violent/gruesome element than the first book. We have murderers on the loose, and quite a few intense and a bit gory scenes. Nothing radical. But it’s definitely a higher level than Rising Shadows.

I sort of felt that Chasing Shadows dipped in and out of having a faith theme. There were some really deep parts, like Sarah explaining her devotion to God to a questioning servant. That was raw and real. And there were other parts, like talking to Will about God still waiting for him to return; prayer; and trusting God. But it was kind of sporadic. It didn’t really bother me too much. There were two instances of swearing, which I was slightly surprised to find. And then there were three or four times where it seemed God’s name was being used carelessly. I was confused about why Sarah would be misusing the name of the God she was so dedicated to. Maybe I read it wrong? Overall, I very much appreciated the Christian aspect of Chasing Shadows. Though it was perhaps a little more irregular than Rising Shadows; it still had some poignant and beautiful faith moments and thoughts. I think the end-ish was pretty strong and steady too, on that matter.

But all in all … time-travel, medieval world, masked balls, terrifying escapades, gallant sweethearts … EEP! It’s just so much fun. I love Serimone and these characters. So yes, filled with romance, action, adventure, and suspense. A plan to uncloak a murderer. A longing to fall in love in the past. It was a thrilling adventure! Despite the slow beginning and some misgivings, I ultimately adored this book and couldn’t help but give it five stars! ^_^ And it seems there’s more fantastic journeys to come! So excited for Defying Shadows!

Book Review: Rising Shadows by Ashley Townsend

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Title: Rising Shadows

Author: Ashley Townsend

Series: Rising Shadows #1

Genre: Time-travel/Fantasy

Audience: Young Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sarah Matthews is nearing the end of another eventless summer in the small town of Bethany, Oklahoma. Disheartened over the reality that yet another unexciting season is coming to an end, she wishes for an unforgettable adventure to break up the monotony of life. But when mysterious circumstances transport Sarah and her sister, Lilly, back in time, she gets more excitement than she bargained for.

The girls find themselves trapped in the twelfth century in a place shrouded with mystery and deception. Assassination plots, kidnappings, and tumultuous adventures force Sarah to rely on the Shadow, a masked hero who comes to her aid numerous times. In order to uncover a conspiracy and save those closest to her, Sarah requests help from the Shadow and also from Will, the handsome and intriguing blacksmith she befriends. Sarah is strangely drawn to the excitement that seems to follow the town hero and begins to look forward to their secret encounters. She also finds herself caught in a romance with Will, despite the fact that their equally fiery personalities have a tendency to clash.

But Will’s past is filled with secrets and pain, and Sarah finds it difficult to break through the walls he has built around him. She knows that in order to make things right with the kingdom - and also with Will - she will need more time in the forgotten land. But when her life is put on the line, Sarah realizes that she will be permanently stranded in the past if she remains for too long, and she vows to find a way back home for her and Lilly ... or die trying.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

I'm pleased to say that I quite enjoyed Rising Shadows by Ashley Townsend! I'd been seeing Ashley's books around, and thought they looked interesting enough to add to my to-read list. Then I won a copy of Chasing Shadows (Book 2) in a giveaway, and found out these are time-travel/fantasy romances; and saw that gorgeous cover, and ... eep! *grins* I was happy to accept when Ashley offered me an e-copy of Book 1 so I could start this series at once!

We meet Sarah Matthews, the average eighteen-year-old, young woman. Just finished up with high school; planning to attend college come fall; living through a boring and uneventful summer, despite differing hopes and dreams.

Then, in a few crazy and unexpected moments, we're transported to Serimone, where Sarah is destined for an adventure she won't soon forget.

Yes. Time-travel is wonderful! ^_^ I'm not really a fan of contemporary; but when we just get a glimpse of the modern-day girl living a boring 21st century life ... and then suddenly she's whisked back into the medieval past, where masked men ride gallantly, evil men plot, and lovely balls are held at the palace ... I'm hooked! *smiles*

First off, Serimone is a great place! I don't want to give away too many spoilers, but as I mentioned above, this series has a fantasy twist. So not only are we time-traveling, but we get a splash of my favorite genre as well! *grins* It has a medieval feel. Robin Hood-like men. Beautiful gowns. Balls. All that sort of fun stuff.

Sarah was a lovely enough character to travel along with. I feel she's relatable to a certain extent; though there were some instances that you just don't understand her. Ha. She can be a little thoughtless or naive at points. But overall, I like her!

Will ... *sigh* Yep, he's one of those heroes that all the girls swoon over. Hehe. Mysterious. Dark past. Protective. Sweet. I have high hopes for him and Sarah!

Seth is the one who completes the familiar love triangle found in YA romances. You all who've read my reviews probably know by now that I am not a fan of love triangles. This one wasn't too bad. But there were some moments that I was quite annoyed with Seth. But he's still a really sweet guy too! *smiles*

Karen is great too! I enjoyed her character. Seth's family is wonderful. We got a little bit of time with Sarah little sister, Lilly, who's a cute girl. ^_^ Ooh, not to mention, the Shadow! He was fun! *grins* Seems he's a bit of a Robin Hood character. Very interested to see where that goes in the next two books. All in all, a very nice cast of characters. I enjoyed meeting them all.

The budding romance was very sweet and clean. Excited to see more on that.

As for violence and gore, there was a little bit of that. Not much. Probably more toward the end of the book, there is a scene or two. Also, there's a red-haired girl accused of being a witch. A sickly king. Suspected to-be-murderer. All that.

Oh, and I was really happy to find a Christian aspect to Rising Shadows! There are themes of trusting God, forgiveness, and redemption. A sweet touch. I hope it grows; and these themes are expounded even more in Chasing Shadows! ^_^

So overall, it was an exciting and romantic adventure! Action. Drama. Budding love. Intrigue. Unrequited romantic interest. Suspense. Lovely read. I'm over halfway done the second book now, and loving being back in Serimone!

I received a copy of Rising Shadows from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Jeweler's Apprentice by E. Kaiser Writes

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Title: Jeweler's Apprentice

Author: E. Kaiser

Series: Five Gems #1

Genre: Fantasy

Audience: Teen

ABOUT THE BOOK

Fia Brithin is beginning an adventure.

On her first visit to the King Hanor's palace, 16 year old Fia Brithin stumbles into a court intrigue. To keep the secret safe, the Chancelor sends her off as apprentice to a famous, and reclusive, high mountain jeweler.

...And straight into adventure.

Discovering gems with deep secrets and new friends with the same, Fia learns a whole lot more than just modeling wax. When to trust a stranger, and when not to; why not to try stealing from gem thieves; what heroism is, what royalty ought to be, and that the mountains themselves can sometimes be the greatest danger of all.

The first in a series, Jeweler's Apprentice introduces protagonist Fia Brithin to the wide, wide world, and starts her on a journey toward adventures, and that difficult thing called growing up.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

Jeweler's Apprentice by E. Kaiser Writes is the first book to what I can see is going to be a lovely fantasy series!

In a beautiful, fantastical world, a young girl travels to the palace with her family. While there, she unintentionally becomes caught up in court intrigue. Which turns out to be quite dangerous. And gets her sent on an adventure.

Think jewels, dwarves, mysteries, wars, and sweetly budding friendships. Gentle and epic swirled together. More lyrical, "older" writing style. Jeweler's Apprentice was definitely more slower-paced, but that doesn't mean it wasn't well-done. Just, yes, an "older" feeling writing style. (Like Anne of Green Gables perhaps? Except fantasy, *grins*)

Anyway, I really enjoyed it! This tale caught my attention and pulled me in. It has the potential to be liked by a wide range of audiences, I think. Appropriate and intriguing; I look forward to reading more! *smiles*

I received a copy of Jeweler's Apprentice from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Dark Storm Rising by Jesseca Wheaton

Title: Dark Storm Rising

Author: Jesseca Wheaton

Series: Standalone Novel

Genre: Historical

Audience: Children/Teen

ABOUT THE BOOK

Helena and Max are just two normal cousins living in north-east Austria. But when Hitler takes over Germany and the unrest grows against the Jews, their families become two of many, helping Germany's Jews across the border. Then, on the night the Anschluss is signed and on their way to deliver a secret message, Helena and Max are captured by a high-ranking officer in the Wehrmacht. Confined within the enemy's walls, Helena and Max have many unanswered questions. If Germany is not at war with Austria, then why have they been captured? Who can they trust? And will they ever see their families again? Encountering many surprises along the way, Helena and Max learn that God’s plans are always best, and the power of forgiveness.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

I really enjoyed this exciting tale by Jesseca Wheaton!Dark Storm Rising is her debut novel, and is a short-ish story set in Austria and surrounding the lives of cousins Max and Helena. Their peaceful existence is suddenly thrown upside down as they come face to face with some of Hitler's men one night in a time of unrest.

As I said above, so enjoyable! Though set in a terrible time, with danger and uncertainty, it really was fun and exciting to read. This book somewhat reminded me of a Nancy Drew book I read awhile ago (Captive Witness). It's thrilling and dangerous; and touches on the dark things happening; but is not at all overly terrifying. Great book for children to teens. And older! *smiles*

It gives a peek into history - very interesting. And also has a lovely faith theme. I found it to be touching and poignant.

Max and Helena were both good characters. I also enjoyed Daniel, and the others! There was a sweet secondary romance mentioned too, that just added to the story! ^_^ *wink*

Overall, I'd say it's a wonderful family book that teaches history and good lessons. I look forward to reading more by Jesseca Wheaton!

I received a copy of Dark Storm Rising from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund

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Title: An Uncertain Choice

Author: Jody Hedlund

Series: An Uncertain Choice #1

Genre: Historical Romance

Audience: Young Adult

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

A fairy tale-ish, medieval, YA romance by Jody Hedlund! ^_^ It was quite fun and sweet - a regular princess and knights tale!

Lady Rosemarie is an orphan destined to rule as queen over her people. The one thing is that she'll be ruling from a convent, through the family priest, because a vow was made that she forgo marriage and become a nun. Rosemarie has almost resigned herself to this fate, when a duke, a family friend, a three handsome knights ride into her life. 

... If she marries before her eighteenth birthday, she will be exempted from the vow. But will she fall in love before then? And who is trying to thwart that at all costs?

I just really enjoyed this story. It was fun, it was cute. Yes, some parts could feel a tad cheesy or unrealistic ... but who cares! It has a definite fairytale feel, so I'm okay with some unrealistic scenarios. 

And despite An Uncertain Choice being a princess sort of YA book, the romance had some depth to it. It actually came about rather beautifully. (view spoiler) Anyway, I was surprised how much I liked the romance.

And I liked the duke too! (view spoiler)

There were a few parts that took away from the light fairytale feel. Some really gruesome torture methods were spoken of ... *shudder* There was one in particular that was horrific. EEK! So caution, caution because of that! Otherwise there's not really much for violence.

I don't know. I simply loved An Uncertain Choice all in all. I love fairytales; and this was such, just without the magic. And plus it had some poignant and sweet themes. I quite enjoyed it. Very excited for book two in this series! *smiles*

Book Review: Buttermilk Sky by Jan Watson

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Title: Buttermilk Sky

Author: Jan Watson

Series: Companions to Troublesome Creek and Copper Brown Trilogies #2

Genre: Historical

Audience: New Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Weary of the expectations imposed on her by her strict upbringing, eighteen-year-old Mazy Pelfrey prepares to leave her home in the Kentucky mountains for the genteel city of Lexington, where she'll attend secretarial school. She knows her life is about to change - and only for the better. Everything will be blue skies from now on.

But business school is harder than she thought it would be and the big city not as friendly, until she meets a charming young man from a wealthy family, Loyal Chambers. When Loyal sets his sights on her, Mazy begins to see that everything she'd ever wished to have is right before her eyes. The only hindrance to her budding romance is a former beau, Chanis Clay, the young sheriff she thought she'd left firmly behind.

Danger rumbles like thunder on a high mountain ridge when Mazy's cosseted past collides with her clouded future and forces her to come to terms with what she really wants.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

I adore Jan Watson's novels ... every time! They're such rich historicals! Bringing you to another time and another place; giving you a wondrous peek into the past. Into the lives of young people such as myself, yet in quite a different world. I love it! And I loved Buttermilk Sky! (Not to mention, that title is adorable! ^_^)

Buttermilk Sky is about Mazy Pelfry, the younger sister of Lilly (from Skip Rock Shallows and a few of the other books). Mazy has left the country home, and is in town, studying shorthand and other such typing duties. She struggles to fit in. To please her friends. Should she befriend the poor girl that everybody laughs at? Should she send home her old-time beau and accept the attentions of a dashing, young gentleman from town?

Jan Watson wove together another simply beautiful story. Her stories are just so simple, real, and sweet that they're completely unique! I don't think I've read other historicals quite like them. I adore Copper, Lilly, and Mazy and their stories! So thoughtful. So endearing. So captivating. There's humorous situations; sad happenings; real-life scenarios (just in a different era); gentle moments ...

Mazy goes on a journey of realizing who she really wants to be, and what is truly important in life. I so enjoyed journeying along with her. She has such a gentle spirit. I loved the cats. And Cinnamon! And just everything! *huggles book* If you're into historical, you so need to check these books out!

I can't wait to read more. I don't think I will ever tire of Jan Watson's writings!

Book Review: The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest by Melanie Dickerson

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Title: The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest

Author: Melanie Dickerson

Series: Thornbeck #1

Genre: Historical/Fairy Tale

Audience: Young Adult

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

Melanie Dickerson's beautiful, romantic fairytales have once again captured my heart! ^_^ Though some of her books I don't enjoy quite as much as others, I always like reading by Melanie! And The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest was definitely a five-star for me!

Mixing Robin Hood and Swan Lake, Melanie creates a lovely, poignant retelling set in the medieval day (non-magical). Odette is a young woman living with her wealthy uncle; yet determined to poach the king's deer in order to feed the poor children of the village. Unfortunately, she starts to fall for Jorgen ... before she realizes he is the forester - intent on capturing the poacher.

Drama. Young love. Dangerous escapades. Beautiful balls. The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest was both swoon-y and sweet, as well as thought-provoking and serious. I just loved it. Fairytales are the best! Not to mention, when they have a Robin Hood like tale tied in! *grins*

Such a cute love story! Geared toward teen/young adults ... but I might say 18 and up. Depends what you normally read I guess. I love this author's books, but I feel a lot of them are a bit too "mature" when it comes to romance for my younger sisters.

As always, I really appreciate the faith themes and lessons woven in. Makes it meaningful and gives you some thoughts to mull over.

All in all, this was a thrilling and adorable tale! Probably one of my favorites from Melanie Dickerson! Can't wait to read The Golden Braid and The Beautiful Pretender! <3