BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 19 June 2018 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – FAÇADE by PEPPER BASHAM

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – FAÇADE by PEPPER BASHAM

 

THE BLURB:

A reclusive academic who would do anything to save her brother. A reluctant spy who’d risk is life to save the woman who broke his heart. Olivia Rakes has almost mythic observations skills when it comes to facts, figures, and details, but she stumbles through matters of the heart. When her brother goes missing over German-occupied France, Livy enlists her services with a group of search-and-rescue spies, who not only thrust her toward espionage, danger, and deceit, but the most frightening of all…romance. Agent Christopher Dawson has avoided Livy Rakes since she broke his heart three years ago. Which is probably for the best, since, as a British spy, he could very well die any day and pursuing a romantic relationship is not on the agenda for him. But when the search for his best friend brings them together on a secret mission, the heart takes on a mind of its own. In a world where war changes the rules of life and love, can Christopher and Livy work together to complete their rescue mission before the enemy catches them first.

 

THE AUTHOR:

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of 5 great kids, speech-pathologist to about fifty more, lover of chocolate, jazz, and Jesus. Her debut historical novel, The Thorn Bearer, released in May 2015 and has garnered awards such as Reader’s Favorites Award, finalist in the Grace Awards, shortlisted for the Inspy Awards, and a finalist in ACFW’s Carol Awards. Her second historical novel, The Thorn Keeper, released in Feb 2016 and her first contemporary romance, A Twist of Faith, released in April 2016 with a 4 star review from Romantic Times. In December 2016, her third historical in the Penned in Time series, The Thorn Healer – released with a 4 1/2 star review from RT and a Top Picks rating. You can get to know Pepper on her website, http://www.pepperdbasham.com, on Facebook, or over at her group blog, The Writer’s Alley.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MY REVIEW:

Oh my goodness! Spies and pilots and agents. Oh my! Search and rescue, and cleverly hidden weapons and disguises.  Oh mercy!

Ms. Basham has served up a tasty dish of a story, eloquent with her words, and gripping with her plot. She takes the reader right into the 1940’s England, and occupied France. The tension of war—and of love drawing the reader page after page.

Livy’s cluelessness of all things romantic was both endearing and frustrating—and all too real for this reviewer. Christopher’s assumptions, an all-too-common human foible—and the heart breaking result. Both of them with the drive and purpose of their mission, and ultimately of their hearts.

Ms. Basham weaves the frisson of war and the frisson of love into a beautiful fabric.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS:

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Façade, Pepper Basham

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BLOGWORDS – Saturday 16 June 2018 – SPECIAL EDITION – 500 FACEBOOK PAGE LIKES on MY AUTHOR PAGE

SPECIAL EDITION – 500 PAGE LIKES on MY FACEBOOK AUTHOR PAGE

“The battle for identity…        

            … one story at a time.”

 

Oh, just a little celebration mode!! Did you read that?? FIVE HUNDRED LIKES on my Facebook Author Page!!!

 

“I’ve been thrown in the deep end.  Of a deep ocean.  In a tidal wave.  And all I want to do is write my stories.  (Well, and get people to read ‘em… )  Write a bio, they say.  What do you want to know?  I write, that’s what I do.”

 

That was 11 April, four years ago. That was the blog, which came along on the heels of my Author page. My first profile pic is dated 4 November 2013. And now I’ve reached a BIG.FAT.MILESTONE!

 

I floundered with the blog in those early days, and I fumbled around with my Author page as well. Unsure what to post, my poor little page was more neglected than tended. I shared and posted what I had in hand (digitally speaking.) My favourite and best design images, and then as Book #2 was coming along, I shared memes and posts about the release.

 

Tessa’s first cover and her revision. And her third version.

 

My book signing for Tessa was 30 October 2014, and I posted my first meme in December. Sales and specials, and new cover designs. My first NaNoWriMo.

 

I posted images of the website when I launched it, and the blog birthday celebration.

 

I started sharing posts from other authors, and networking. I shared blog posts, both mine and others—which is now in the 30 – 50 range! Writing milestones and celebrations and excerpts.

 

facebook author page – 500 likes celebration

 

If you haven’t already, head on over and give me another LIKE!

 

https://www.facebook.com/Author.Robin.E.Mason/

 

 

“Maybe you have to know the darkness to truly appreciate the light.”—Madeline L’Engle

 

 

 

#Blogwords, Special Edition, 500 Likes on My Facebook Author Page!

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BLOGWORDS – Sunday 17 June 2018 – FRONT PORCH FELLOWSHIP – ALL CREATION WORSHIPS

FRONT PORCH FELLOWSHIP – ALL CREATION WORSHIPS

 

 

Several years ago I was walking around a small lake. It’s a favorite spot, and I take the walk whenever I visit there.

This particular time I had been listening to a certain praise and worship CD, and one of the songs was playing in my head.

 

 

As those words sang in my mind, my eyes looked up at the trees—and I wondered (as all good authors do) “How does a tree worship God.”

 

I had thought it an idle thought. Until He answered me.

 

 

So simple and yet so profound.

 

And as all good writers also do, my mind took it another step.

 

 

Of course I knew the answer, even then.

 

 

And with an algebraic turn, or perhaps putting the pieces in a puzzle, that meant that I worship Father by writing.

 

So today (Saturday) as I was sitting outside, basking in a miracle moment today, and praising Father for this long awaited thing, I glanced at the trees.

 

And I was reminded of what He told me those years ago—to worship Him, I be what He created me to be.

*note the use of “be” vs “do.”

 

So, and pardon the license with grammar, but I be writing. I be working—and I be worshiping Him—as I be writing.

 

And that brings me even greater joy.

 

 

What about you? What has Father created you to be? What do you do to worship Him?

 

#Blogwords, Front Porch Fellowship, #FPF, Sunday Devotion, All Creation Worships

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BLOGWORDS – Saturday 16 June 2018 – SPECIAL EDITION – GUEST POST – THE AFTERMATH, A WRITER’S LIFE

 

“My world came to an end the day I jumped off Versailles.”

 

SPECIAL EDITION – GUEST POST – THE AFTERMATH, A WRITER’S LIFE

            * as written for http://readingismysuperpower.org/2018/06/16/guest-post-and-a-giveaway-robin-e-mason-the-seasons-series/

 

 “The comforting words of dearest friends are a soothing balm to a jagged soul.”

 

 

Have you ever wondered what authors do when they finish a new book? Well, I’m here to tell ya. For this author, at least.

 

Mentally, I crash. Well, physically, too. ‘Specially this last series—I mean, come ON! Four books in one year?!?!?!? What was I thinking?

Okay, okay, let me ‘splain. Writing is an intense journey, hard work and hard deadlines, even for Indies such as myself. Research and hyper attention to detail, especially for the OCD-er ones. (like moi) And when it’s over, it’s not unlike the release after a rigorous work-out. Or a hike up Mount Everest… Or childbirth. And there is post-authorum letdown, if not depression.

Truly, I feel rather at odds, staring at ALL.THE.THINGS I have neglected these past months. And in my case, this time at least, the ten days remaining (at the time this post goes live) before major surgery. Which, by the way, was deferred till after the writing got did.

So now that this story is finished, and wrapped up in a pretty cover, what does the author’s brain do? Why, we noodle around with notes and ideas for our next story, of course! Or stories, as the case may be.

In my case, I’ve two new series’ swarming around, both of which took root some years ago. Kid stories, something I’ve wanted to do for a while, and a mid-grade series for my granddaughters.

 

The notes from Seasons will soon be tucked away and replaced with notes for the next series, files on the laptop will be set up—truly, I’ve already started that endeavor.

But the non-writing stuff, that’s what’s begging my attention. Basic housekeeping #hangsheadinshame, neglected and languishing projects #Imanartisttoo, and the rearranging of furniture to accommodate post-surgery recovery.

 

Perhaps the hardest and yet sweetest won “task” is nothing. And by nothing I mean doing nothing. Truly, I adore sitting on my front porch, watching the trees be trees. Watching the birds flit about, and squabble. Watching the kids on my block ride their bikes as the race and carry on great adventures.

 

It feels strange, this sitting, half-idly, thinking about all the stuff to do and not having the stress and pressure to get it done. Methinks it’s part of the creative cycle, not so unlike a rigorous exercise routine. Warm up, bust it for a while, cool down; warm up, bust it for a while, cool down; warm up…

 

Not so unlike life in general. Our days fluctuate between work and family, obligation and pleasure, high pressure and down time.

That down time is rather like recovery after surgery. I failed to allow for that two years ago after my first knee replacement, and had to adjust my book deadline. This time, I’ve blocked out the rest of the summer for recovery. And reading. You didn’t think I’d be totally idle all those weeks, did you?

Even Father God takes a day of rest. And He’s God. He doesn’t get tired, He never slumbers or sleeps. But He is our example and He says to take a day of rest. Or two. Or ten. “Be still and know,” He says. Basically, rest. Chill out. You’ve done well, now it’s time to kick back and enjoy.

So, the aftermath of writing for this author? I be chillin’. I be kicked back. And I sure be enjoying.

 

 

““Mercedes?” I could barely breathe. I didn’t remember this woman. The name only tumbled in my mind, tugging at memories I couldn’t see. I don’t know how but I knew I could trust her. Still…”

 

 

““NO!” My throat raw already, my scream was jagged and panicked and desperate. “No!” I didn’t want to see it, I didn’t want to remember… Not this. I didn’t want to remember this.”

 

 

#Blogwords, The Aftermath, A Writer’s Life, Special Edition, Guest Post, Reading is My Superpower, Carrie Schmidt, The Whispering Winds of Spring, Seasons Book 4

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BLOGWORDS – Thursday 14 June 2018 – WREADING WEDNESDAY on THURSDAY – FEATURED BOOK– PAINTING ON THE POND by SHARON LEWIS KOHO

WREADING WEDNESDAY on THURSDAY – FEATURED BOOK – PAINTING ON THE POND by SHARON LEWIS KOHO

https://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/slb-tours-events-landing-page/the-painting-on-the-pond-series-tour         

THE BOOK:

Series: The Painting on the Pond
Genre:  New Adult, Fiction, Suspense
Publisher: Cedar Fort
Publication date: Re-release on April 11, 2017

An intriguing plot meshes the past and present into a story that takes David Young down a path he never imagined in this crisp, clean mystery novel. City-born artist David Young has traveled a difficult journey during his twenty-seven years. It has finally taken him to a spectacular valley in the Pacific Northwest. Settled in a comfortable cabin he is free at last to explore, paint, and create the future of his dreams. However, a mysterious woman’s disappearance, a haunting legend, and unsettling dreams unnerve David, threatening his hopes and plunging him into the most formidable struggle of his life. While he is engulfed in mystery, adventure, and romance, an unseen hand draws him to his destiny, and into the rugged wilderness of Alaska.

Book 1: GOODREADS | AMAZON

Book 2: GOODREADS | AMAZON

 

THE DEAL:

 

THE AUTHOR:

Sharon Lewis Koho grew up on a small ranch near the town of Inkom, Idaho. Her beloved father died when she was five years old, and she and her siblings were reared in humble circumstances by a hard-working and courageous mother. In her youth, Sharon discovered she could create any world she wanted to visit, or any story she wanted to be a part of by climbing high in the trees bordering her cherished ranch. Daydreaming there amid songs of birds, rustling leaves and the babbling of the nearby creek, inspired many wonderful stories. Sharon married Bill Koho from Nampa, Idaho in 1967, and they were married thirty years until his death in 1997. She is the proud mother of six children. Although she is a Licensed Practical Nurse by profession, she has had much more experience in creating and telling stories. Her favorite thing to do is to spend time with her children and grandchildren. She also enjoys visiting, traveling, camping, reading, writing, swimming, and any adventurous idea that pops into her head.

GOODREADS | FACEBOOK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE GIVEAWAY:

Enter the giveaway HERE.

Giveaway is subject to policies HERE

 

THE TOUR:

Tour Landing Page

June 11-Jorie Loves A Story (Review, Book 1)
June 12-Paulette’s Papers
June 13-Singing Librarian Books
June 14-Robin’s Nest
June 15-
June 16-Remembrancy
June 18-
June 19-
June 20-Reading is My SuperPower
June 21-Jorie Loves A Story (Review, Book 2)
June 22-Why Not? Because I Said So! 

 

#Blogwords, Wreading Wednesday, Featured Book, Painting on the Pond, Sharon Lewis Koho

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Seasons Series by Robin E. Mason-Blog Tour and Giveaway

this has got to be the funnest interview i’ve done!!! come check it out!!

Captive Dreams Window

Welcome to the Seasons series (by Robin E. Mason) Blog Tour and giveaway, hosted y JustRead Publicity Tours!

---

Welcome Colonel and Ms. Mason

BRUCE:  Good afternoon, Birdie Girl.

rem:  Good afternoon, Mr. Rochester. So nice to see you again.

BRUCE:   Why don’t you call me Bruce. Leastways for now.

rem:  Well, all right then, Bruce. Welcome. I do enjoy chatting with you.

BRUCE: I know so little about you, and you sit here so mélancolique, mon amie. Please, tell me a little about yourself!

rem:  I’m an oddball in a bunch of oddballs. LOL, I’m 59 and act 12 (no really). I’ve three grown kids and three beautiful granddaughters, and four kitty babies. Besides my writing, I sing and play the piano, I danced and directed the dance team at church for a few years, I paint and draw, and I’m an…

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BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 12 June 2018 – SPECIAL EDITION – GUEST POST – FAMILY & FRIENDS, and Why They Show Up in my Writing So Much

written for Beth Erin @ http://www.faithfullybookish.com/

“My world came to an end the day I jumped off Versailles.”

 

SPECIAL EDITION – GUEST POST – FAMILY & FRIENDS, and Why They Show Up in my Writing So Much

 “The comforting words of dearest friends are a soothing balm to a jagged soul.”

 

 

Ya know, those peeps you sometimes just want smack up ‘side the head? The ones who can irk you and get under your skin like nobody else on the planet?? The ones who you also can’t live without???

Yup, those ones! Gotta love ‘em!!

Or not…

 

I was not close to extended family growing up. And I only discovered how much I missed that when I realized how much it shows up in my stories!! I go to great lengths to establish who’s who in all my stories, and even if a cousin’s wife’s brother doesn’t make an appearance in the story—I know who he is. And how old he is. And probably who his friends are…

 

I believe it goes to our identity. Our roots, our heritage. Who we’re related doesn’t define who we are, certainly. But who we are does stem from where we come from. (follow that??)

 

But more than that, I thrive, apparently, in family gatherings. I long for extended family reunions, or gathering of friends. I’m that odd mix of introvert-extrovert, and I come alive when peeps come around. *usually…

 

My blog is all about friends and family, like an open-door family room, or front porch with year-round lemonade or tea or coffee. A place to hang out, chat and laugh, or sit in silence. A place of fellowship and connection. (notice the lack of electronics and anything digital???)

 

Maybe that’s why family is so important, fellowship and connection. A place of open arms, no matter what. caveat: not a place of condoning unacceptable activity, but of love in spite of unacceptable behavior.

 

These connections, friendships and family, are so prevalent in my stories because they have been so lacking in my life. I have my cherished friends, those friendships that have outlasted time and distance and life-events. There have been those “for a season” friends who have left my circle. And those friends who weren’t truly friends deep down, who went their own way because they chose not to grow with the friendship.

 

But the connections that remain—those are our circle, whether family or friend. Truly, though, friends that stick with you are family.

 

In a way, perhaps my fictional characters are filling a void in my life. Perhaps they are placeholder as Father restores what has been lost and damaged.

 

Or maybe, they are extensions of Father’s love and family, my heart pouring out into fictional people what I long to share with family and friends not on a written page. (I can’t say “real” people because my characters are very real to me—in a very lucid and fictional sense!)

 

Seasons is about four friends, and the unlikely bond they share. Four girls from four different circumstances. In an era when family status defined them, they followed their hearts, and friendships that were birthed from their bond were stronger than any societal rigors.

And in the end, it’s the connection with her friends that restores what Simone has lost—her memory. Even in the cobwebs of lost memories, her friends, their names, their faces, came to mind. For all their spats and differences, they banded together to find the answers she sought.

Once restored, her family welcomed her back with open arms and hearts, the loss of years as bitter for them as it had been baffling for her. And within the shelter of family and friends, her story—if not always in real life—knew its happy ending.

The journey of the series is a, well, series of relationships restored, both family and friends. The connection between the characters survives any trauma inflicted against it. I established family in my stories for a reason, if not with intent and purpose; it wasn’t until my 6^th or 7^th book that I realized this phenomena I had created—and why!

 

The why is the foundation that family creates, and is. And what I believe is our innate instinct to preserve. Or, in so many families, to restore. Isn’t that what you do when there is a crack in the foundation? Restore it? Rebuild it? Make something new from the old? Make something beautiful from the ugly? Something vital and healthy and growing from that which was despised and discarded?

Isn’t that what Father God does with us? And isn’t it into His family that He invites and welcomes us? Are we not sons and daughters, and not puppets or minions? His chosen ones, His peculiar people (some of us more than others… ) His beloved.

 

Perhaps this golden thread of family in the tapestry of my stories isn’t so accidental after all. Perhaps Father wove it in as my hands wrote the words. Just as He had woven that precious thread into the tapestry of my life.

 

 

““Mercedes?” I could barely breathe. I didn’t remember this woman. The name only tumbled in my mind, tugging at memories I couldn’t see. I don’t know how but I knew I could trust her. Still…”

 

 

““NO!” My throat raw already, my scream was jagged and panicked and desperate. “No!” I didn’t want to see it, I didn’t want to remember… Not this. I didn’t want to remember this.”

 

 

#Blogwords, Family and Friendship, Special Edition, Guest Post, The Whispering Winds of Spring, Seasons Book 4

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