My Review of A Light in the Window

Here's a description of the book:

"One Woman. Two Men.

One stirs her pulse and the other her faith.

But who will win her heart?

Marceline Murphy is a gentle beauty with a well-founded aversion to rogues.

But when two of Boston's most notorious pursue her,

attraction, dreams and faith only muddle her mind.

Can the light in the window illuminate the path of true love?"

My Rating

Spring/Summer

My Review

A Light in the Window may be a bit "lighter" than the books in Julie Lessman's first two series ("Daughters of Boston" and "Winds of Change"), in the sense that it's a shorter read than her other stories and a tad less epic in scope, but it's a prequel not to be underestimated! For those who have never read any of Lessman's books, this one would be a great place to start, as the focus is only on one couple's journey to marriage - the catalyst for all six books in the aforementioned series. And for those who have read some or (especially) all of Lessman's books, this one is no less dramatic for knowing how it all ends. In fact, it's perhaps more moving to know the heartaches and grand blessings in store for Marceline and the man she marries.

Now, for a story about two rogues trying to win one faithful woman's heart, this has all the angst and emotion - as well as the not-so-smart choices - you'd expect. There is a great message about not judging others, but also being wise about whom you give your heart to; although I must say that I would like to have given Marcy the advice passed down to many a young woman: "Don't enter into a romantic relationship expecting to change the other person!" *sigh*

As for the seasonal aspect of this story, the play/fundraiser that Marcy and her best friend, Julie (I love that!), put together maintains the subtle Christmas theme throughout the pages. And all of the steps leading up to the production of the play (with the same title as the book) are conveyed in such a sweet, relatable, and big-hearted way with the help of some great secondary characters. So there's enough of the Christmas mood to provide a seasonal reading treat should you be looking for such. But really, the story goes about a half of a year's time, and the emphasis is on the tradition and symbolism of leaving a candle in the window, not so much on Christmas festivities - so this can be enjoyed any time of the year.

A Light in the Window is such a great read to bring Lessman's previous books together and provide a segue into new stories and characters in upcoming releases! It's more focused than many of her other books with its one love triangle and its consistent theme. And it can serve as a great introduction to Lessman's works - or a touching way to round out one's time with the O'Connor family.

*With thanks to the author for providing me with an e-copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

To Pre-Order the Book on Kindle: click HERE (releases November 9, 2012)

Contest!

 Click the image above to go to the contest page on Julie's website. Contest ends December 31, 2012.

End of Summer Bash: Welcome Julie Lessman!

Today we're kick-starting a week-long celebration of the change of seasons - saying "farewell" to summer and "welcome" to autumn! I had a wonderful summer with my family and some of my dear friends (and all of you here in the blogosphere!), and I hope you all made some great memories, as well. Soon the next season will be upon us, and even though it will bring new responsibilities and schedules for some, each new day and each new season has gifts all its own - so let's celebrate!!

Our first guest this week is none other than Julie Lessman! (Take a look at the sidebar to see this week's full schedule. And remember that you can get 2 extra entries in one of this week's drawings by taking the event's blog button - details HERE!)

Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of 'Passion With a Purpose' underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. Winner of the 2009 ACFW Debut Author of the Year and Holt Medallion Awards of Merit for Best First Book and Long Inspirational, Julie is also the recipient of 13 Romance Writers of America awards and was voted by readers as 'Borders Best of 2009 So Far: Your Favorite Fiction.' She resides in Missouri with her husband, daughter, son and daughter-in-law and is the author of 'The Daughters of Boston' series, which includes A Passion Most Pure, A Passion Redeemed, and A Passion Denied. Her 'Winds of Change' series has recently released with A Hope Undaunted, which ranked #5 on Booklist’s Top 10 Inspirational Fiction for 2010. You can contact Julie through her website at www.julielessman.com.

Welcome, Julie!

Amber: Thank you so much for joining us today! Could you share with us one of your favorite memories from this past summer?

Julie: Uh-oh, this is going to sound reallllly bad, I know, and almost workaholic, but my favorite memories from this summer are sitting with my feet up and laptop in my lap on our lower deck facing the woods. I like to joke that I am a recluse who has the misfortune of having an outgoing personality, but it’s the absolute truth, because I LOVE just staying home to write outside from May through September and even into October as long as I am bundled up.

Our wooded backyard is very private and it’s not a dark, dreary forest, either, but a lush, sprawling woods dappled with sunlight where a family of Cooper hawks squeal and soar, baby squirrels frisk, tiny fawns literally spring and wild turkeys roam. Honestly, it is SO beautiful down there that I literally stop what I’m doing periodically to just praise and thank God, and actually, it’s where I do my Bible study and prayer time as well. My hubby installed a ceiling fan overhead (for Mother’s Day) and I have my cinnamon hazelnut coffee, lip gloss, phone, and mirror (to capture those facial expression when I write) on a table close by. And the best part? My husband comes down to take breaks with me several times a day, and my daughter comes down for long chats, so I actually almost see more of them down there than I do inside!!

Amber: Oh, Julie, that sounds fabulous to me!! Can I come write with you?? ;)

If you could choose one of the characters from your latest novel to join you for an “end-of-summer” party, who would you want to celebrate with in person and where would you go?

Julie: Oh, Amber, how cruel, to limit me to just one! Because if I could I would LOVE to sit in on one of Marcy’s sewing fests on the back porch with all of the O’Connor women, sipping lemonade. BUT … since you are limiting me to only one character, you may not believe this, but it would be Charity Dennehy. Oh. My. Goodness! That woman is SUCH a hoot that she makes me laugh in almost every scene she’s in, even the serious ones. She’s quirky and fun and OH, so point-blank honest—like me—so I think we would have a blast, maybe shopping (one of Charity’s favorite things to do, even though it’s not mine) or going to see a romantic movie at the theater.

Amber: Now that would be one crazy-fun time, for sure!

Please tell us about your latest release. If you could share a scene from the book to whet our appetites, that would be fabulous!

Julie: Sure, Amber—A Heart Revealed is book 2 in “The Winds of Change” series, and it’s the forbidden love story of the oldest O’Connor brother, Sean O’Connor, a confirmed bachelor, and his sister’s best friend, Emma Malloy, a battered married woman. Here’s my own personal blurb:

The ring on her hand belongs to one man …

But her heart belongs to another.

As a battered woman, Emma Malloy fled Dublin for Boston ten years ago, seeking shelter for a heart badly bruised by both her husband and guilt. But when she falls in love with Sean O’Connor, a confirmed bachelor who wrestles with demons of his own, fear and shame almost destroy her … until she is finally set free by a heart revealed.

Here is a scene later in the book where Sean is taking Emma home and tells her he’s leaving Dennehy’s (where they work together) because he’s in love with her.

~ Excerpt from A Heart Revealed ~

He smiled, offering a sideways glimpse shadowed with mischief. “It’s simple, really—I don’t like to play sports … or games … where my opponents have an unfair advantage.”

“You see a wife as an opponent?”

His grin broadened in the glow of the streetlamp as he eased to a stop. He shifted into park, turned off the ignition and turned to face her. “I see women as the opponent.”

“And what’s the unfair advantage, pray tell?”

Leaning his head back against the window, he draped an arm over the steering wheel and studied her through hooded eyes, his veiled look unable to hide a glimmer of tease. “Why, moods, tears and manipulation, Mrs. Malloy, all powerfully compounded by the deadly pull of sexual attraction.”

An onslaught of blood assaulted her cheeks, and she looked away. “Oh,” she whispered, palm taut on the handle of the door. She swallowed hard and gripped it tightly, ready to flee.

“Emma.”

Her fingers stilled on the latch when he touched her arm. The sound of her name had parted from his tongue as a mere whisper, yet the depth of its passion buoyed her heart with a joy she had no right to feel. Her pulse pounded in her ears as she stared at the strong hand now caressing her own and her eyes drifted closed, unwilling to face the man to whom it belonged.

“Look at me,” he said quietly, and her breathing shallowed as she slowly raised her eyes to his. The intensity of his gaze caused her stomach to quiver.

“You are like no woman I have ever met, and if God would allow it, I would get down on my knees right now and commit to cherish and love you all the days of my life.”

“Sean—”

“No, please—hear me out. I need to say these things, at least once. Before I go.”

Her breath hitched in her throat. “Before you go?”

He distanced himself, and she felt the loss of his touch. Settling back again, he picked up the baseball mitt to finger the binding, absently staring at the glove as he toyed with its laces.

“I’ve given a lot of prayer and thought to us, Emma, and I think the best course of action would be for me to leave.”

“Leave?” she whispered, the very word cleaving to her tongue.

His eyelids lifted halfway, revealing his sorrow. “Dennehy’s—for good.”

Her heart stuttered in her chest, stealing her air.

He gently took her hand in his, and she was too stunned to resist, staring at his thumb as it feathered her fingers. “I thought we could continue on as friends, but every time I look at you, touch you, see your smile, hear your laugh …” His large hand swallowed hers in a tender hold, squeezing gently before letting go with a deep draw of air. “… I only crave you more. To hold you, to love you … to make you my wife.”

Paralysis claimed her tongue as tears stung her eyes.

With a heavy exhale, he rested his head on the back of the seat, eyes staring aimlessly out the window. “I thought I was strong enough—to be your friend and only your friend, but my thoughts tell me otherwise.” His voice lowered to a bare whisper. “I actually believed that if I laid aside my physical desire, that we would be free from sin. But I can no longer deny that deep in the recesses of my mind, I wrestle with wanting you so badly, that I fear adultery in my heart.” He looked at her then, his eyes naked with regret. “I don’t want to leave you, Emma, but I love you too much to stay.”

Her eyelids fluttered closed, the loss of him almost unbearable. And yet, she’d known all along that this had been their destiny. This was the path she had chosen. The vow she had made, to God … and to Rory. A reedy sigh left her lips as she looked up, fingers quivering while she brushed a stray tear from her cheek. “Where will you go?”

His chest expanded and released. “I don’t know … I don’t really need the money right now, so maybe I’ll just donate my time to the church till I find something I like. I was offered a job a while back … maybe I’ll look into that.”

Her pulse quickened. “Your old store at Kelly’s?” she asked, grateful he could return to a job he loved and the woman who loved him.

“No, I don’t think so.”

She blinked, ridges lining her brow. “But Rose said—”

He glanced up, his gaze suddenly sharp. “Rose and I are over, Emma.”

Shock congealed in her throat. “Over?” she whispered. She felt her ribs constrict. “But why would you do that?” she asked, her voice cracking with strain. “She can offer you everything. Everything you should have—your own store, a woman who loves you, a family …”

His voice gentled. “I’m not in love with her.”

“But you can learn!” She shouted, hysteria rising in her tone as tears welled in her eyes.

With a tender gaze, he slowly gathered her into his arms against her will, gentle strength locking her to his chest where his heart beat steady and sure. She closed her eyes at the touch of his hand stroking her hair, and she had no power over the sobs that rose in her throat.

“No, Emma, I can’t … because I won’t.

“But you’re attracted to her, you told me so …” Her voice broke on a heave.

He kissed her hair, head resting against hers. “Yes, she stirs my body, but not my soul. When I kiss her, touch her … it’s your lips I’m kissing … your body I touch. That’s not fair to Rose, Emma, and it’s not fair to me.”

“But you’re a man who deserves to love and be loved …”

“And so I will be,” he whispered, grief threading his tone. “Because you and I will always love each other from afar.”

She sagged against him then, fingers clutched white on his coat. “No …. you’re a man with needs, desires …” Her frail moan slowly ebbed away.

Like her dreams for him.

His chuckle held little mirth. “The way I see it, Emma, if Father Mac can do it, I can.”

“But you deserve better,” she whispered, her heart raw.

He pulled away to cup her face in his hands, and in his eyes she saw all the pain and regret she felt in her own. A sad smile shadowed his lips. “No,” he said quietly, caressing her cheek with gentle fingers. “Because if I deserved better, I would have you.” Pressing a lingering kiss to her forehead, he gave her arms a quick buff. “Come on, you need to go in.” He opened his door and got out, ducking his head to flash his trademark smile. “The good news is, Mrs. Malloy … you get your store room back.” He shut his door and rounded the car, offering his hand after opening her side. He braced her shoulder on the walk to the door.

“When will you leave?” she asked, leaning on him more than she should.

“As soon as Mitch can hire someone to replace me.”

“No one can replace you,” she whispered.

He turned her to face him on the portico, the pale lamplight from brass sconces revealing his sorrow. A hint of the twinkle she loved returned to his eyes. “I know that, Emma, and you know that, but let’s not let Mitch in on it, okay? You know how he loves control.”

She attempted a smile that failed miserably.

His fingers traced the curve of her jaw before he opened the door. “G’night, Emma. See you on Monday.”

“Good night, Sean,” she whispered, heart buckling at the sight of the man she loved walking away. Tears blurred her vision as his broad back slowly faded into the night, and with a broken cry, she flew down the brick walkway with her heart in her throat. “Sean!

He turned at the street, and within mere seconds she launched into his arms, body heaving with the need to let him know just how much she loved him. With tears streaming her face, she kissed him with all the tenderness, all the passion, all the love that was his alone, and for one breathless moment in time, they belonged to each other. “I love you, Sean, and if I never reap another blessing from the hand of God, I will consider my life a joy because of you.”

He clutched her so tightly, they stood as a solitary figure, two hearts beating as one. He gently smoothed the tears from her face. “I will love you forever, Emma,” he whispered. “Through all the family gatherings where we chat and see each other in passing, I want you to always know—my heart belongs to you.” He pressed a final kiss to her brow. “Get some rest. Next week looks to be a back breaker.” Squeezing her arm, he rounded the car and opened the door, giving her wink as he slipped inside. She watched him churn the ignition and shift before pulling away from the curb.

“A back breaker,” she whispered, her words lost in the rumble of the Model T as it disappeared down the road. “And a heart breaker too.” Clutching her coat, she made her way to the door as her weary sigh collided with the frigid air to become vapor, forever fading away.

Just like our friendship.

~ End of Excerpt ~

Amber: Wow, Julie! This begs one of the questions from the movie Ever After: "How can you live each day with all that passion?" (Or something like that...) Seriously!

So, what do you look forward to most about the coming autumn season?

Julie: Grin … sitting out on my deck bundled up with the smell of wood smoke in the crisp, cool air and drinking in the beauty of scarlets, golds and russets in the woods beyond. Definitely one of my favorite seasons.

Thank you, Amber, for allowing me to be a part of your “End of Summer Bash.” I LOVE to hear from reader friends, so they can feel free to contact me through my Web site at www.julielessman.com, either by sending an e-mail via my site or by signing up for my newsletter. My newsletter is chock-full of fun info on my books and there’s always a contest featuring signed book giveaways including one right now to have a character named after you or a loved one in my next book. Also, I have a cool feature on my website called “Journal Jots," which is a very laid-back, Friday journal to my reader friends that would give your readers an idea as to my relaxed style of writing. Then finally, I can be found daily at The Seekers blog, a group blog devoted to encouraging and helping aspiring writers on the road to publication.

Amber: It's my pleasure to host you here again, Julie! Thank you!!

Readers, ya'll know how generous Julie is! She has offered to give away a copy of any of her books, including A Heart Revealed, to one lucky winner - winner's choice! So please leave a comment along with your e-mail address for a chance to win! All winners will be announced on Saturday, August 27th.

*This drawing is open internationally.*

Tomorrow's guest is author Sarah Sundin, so come back soon to show her some love!

Blogoversary Day 3: Welcome Back Julie Lessman!

Welcome to the third day of my blogoversary extravaganza! Today is actually my official blogoversary, as I started blogging March 30, 2010. =) To celebrate today we're looking back to two special events from this past year: Reading Retreats Week and my interview last July with author Julie Lessman!

For those of you who are visiting or are new to the blog (or if you just want a blast from the past!), here are the links to the posts from Reading Retreats Week:

• Reading Retreats: Among the Flowers
• My Review of Abbie Ann & Giveaway
• Reading Retreats: In Borders and Up a Tree
• Reading Retreats: In the Company of Animals
• Reading Retreats: My Home Away from Home
• Reading Retreats: My Dream
• Winner of Abbie Ann

And here's the link from my last interview with Julie Lessman:

• "A Hot Summer Day" with Julie Lessman

I have to say, Julie is like a rock star in the Christian fiction world. ;) It's so much fun to have her visit!

Amber: It’s such a pleasure to host you here at “Seasons of Humility” again! It may not be a “Hot Summer Day” for this particular interview, but I’m sure we can pretend, right? ;) Could you share with us what you’ve been up to in your writing career since Summer 2010?

Julie: Well, book 1 in the “Winds of Change” series came out September 1st, A Hope Undaunted, which is Katie O’Connor’s story (and Cluny McGee’s), and I am thrilled to say that it ranked #5 on the Booklist “Top Ten Inspirational Fiction for 2010,” which blessed the socks off of me!!

Then I started in on the final book of the O’Connor saga, A Trust Restored (working title), which is Steven O’Connor’s love story with a new heroine who is mentored by Faith O’Connor. I did this because I wanted to bring the saga full circle with a heroine who is as strong in her faith as Faith O’Connor was in A Passion Most Pure.

Finally, I just submitted a new proposal to my publisher for a 3-book series entitled “The Cousins McClare,” about the struggles of heart and faith for three cousins in 1933 San Francisco amidst the glitter and glamour of San Francisco’s Nob Hill to the seedy dance halls and gambling dens of the Barbary Coast.

Amber: Well, you've been keeping busy, which is good new for all of us readers! ;) What’s on the agenda for this next year? We’d love to hear anything you can tell us about your next release! (And if you have a sneak peek to share, that would be absolutely wonderful!)

Julie: Book 2 in the “Winds of Change” series, A Heart Revealed, releases September 1st (August 1st on CBD.com) and I was doing cartwheels this week because Mary Connealy (one of my favorite authors and people who has graciously agreed to endorse my book) said: "It's the best yet, Julie. Beautiful, powerful, funny at moments, so wise in others that I'm humbled. Fantastic book."

I have to be honest—I was pretty worried because although A Heart Revealed is my husband and crit partner's favorite books of all those I’ve written, it’s not mine by a long shot and I actually wasn’t sure if it was any good or not. Trust me, it’s one thing to have your husband say it’s the best so far, but somehow SO much better when an author the caliber of Mary Connealy says it is!

Here’s the overview for A Heart Revealed:

'The ring on her hand belongs to one man…
but her heart belongs to another.

As a battered woman, Emma Malloy fled Dublin for Boston ten years ago, seeking shelter for a heart badly bruised by both her husband and guilt. But when she falls in love with Sean O’Connor, a man who wrestles with demons of his own, fear and shame almost destroy her … until she is finally set free by a heart revealed.'

And, because you asked, here is a sneak peek at a scene at Dennehy’s Department Store where Emma is manager and Sean is now a temporary Assistant Manager since he lost his job during the Great Depression. Sean is desperate to regain Emma’s trust after an incident where he lost his temper in a violent manner, nearly destroying their ten-year friendship.

~Excerpt from A Heart Revealed~

“Oh, I love the smell of rain,” Emma whispered.

“Me too,” he said quietly, suddenly aware he’d been holding his breath. Easing back in his chair, his chest slowly contracted as the air left his lungs in one long, silent release. He thought he had known her, but she had surprised him more than anyone ever had, slipping out from the shadows of ambiguity to become a strong and steady force in a world where men reigned supreme. He’d watched her dicker with a salesman over surcharges on a foreign shipment, battle a shipping agent over late delivery, and soothe a disgruntled customer, all in one day. She was calm and kind to her staff without leaving any room for lax behavior from any employee whose paycheck she signed. And yet through it all, she was Emma, a woman who preferred to fade into the background, and yet wielded a power that was serene, gentle, and strong. His neck warmed. And somehow—in the intimacy of this setting—sensual.

The fawn-colored eyes opened, revealing a hint of pale green hue, and he suddenly saw her as she must have been years ago, perfect features, hypnotic eyes and a magnetic innocence so strong, it aroused both a strange longing within and an ache in his chest. He observed the faint scars on the left side of her face—and realized that for him, they had never hindered her beauty. “You’re different here,” he whispered, “secure, resolute, invincible.”

She smiled, and weariness weighted her delicate features. “That’s because too much rests on the success of this store—my debt to Mitch and Charity, the livelihood of every employee here …” She drew in a frail breath and buffed her arms. “My own peace of mind.”

“You’re a special woman, Emma Malloy. I’m honored to be working with you.”

A wash of color ebbed in her cheeks and she quickly rose to her feet, avoiding his eyes. “Well, if I can’t convince you to go home, then the least I can give you half of my supper.” She peeked up, her manner tentative despite a shy smile that quickened his pulse. “It’s not Bert’s meatloaf by a long shot, but it should be enough to tame your hunger pangs for a while.”

His lips parted in a grin. “Sounds good. And while we’re dining, I’ll share some of the ideas I have for increasing market share.”

She paused, her hesitation halting the breath in his lungs. “Sorry, I’m … afraid I have a lot of work I need to finish before I go …”

“Ten minutes,” he said quietly. “That’s all it’ll take to bolt some food and hear my ideas.” He studied her profile, stomach cramping at the reluctance he saw in the downcast eyes, the shift of her throat, the hand on the knob. She was no longer comfortable being alone with him, and the very thought twisted his insides into a knot. Her lips parted in slow motion, and he held his breath, unwilling to hear the wrong answer. He rushed on, his voice quiet but resolute. “Emma, we need to talk. To clear the air. Please … if only for my peace of mind?”

His words stilled her for a moment before she finally nodded, rib cage slowly deflating. Without another word, she slipped from the room, leaving him alone with his regret.

He released a weary breath and dropped his head on the back of the chair, a bittersweet smile edging his lips at the thought of dining with Emma and clearing the air. Whatever it took, he would regain her trust. Her friendship was too important. And so was the harmony they’d need to work side by side.

“I assume being a full-blooded Irishman, you like corned beef and cabbage?” she asked upon her return, gaze averted despite a faint smile on her lips. She deposited a small basket on the edge of his desk and popped the lid to unearth slices of corned beef swaddled in wax paper and a small bowl of cabbage sealed with aluminum foil. Smoothing out the foil, she carefully placed a sliver of corned beef on top and then scooped a child’s portion of cabbage alongside. She produced two forks, obviously from the makeshift kitchen at the back of Bert and Alli’s office, then placed the rest of the corned beef into the bowl with the cabbage. With an almost childlike focus that made him smile, she carefully slid it across the desk, keeping the smaller portion for herself.

He pushed it away. “Oh, no you don’t—you take more than that.”

“Don’t make me pull rank on you, Mr. O’Connor. This is all I want.” She nudged it back.

His tone was gentle. “You haven’t called me Sean once since I started, Emma. Why?”

She fumbled with her foil, suddenly preoccupied with positioning the corned beef just so. “I just thought you’d appreciate more formality in the work place, you know, in front of the employees.”

“Emma,” he said quietly. “Will you look at me?”

Her gaze lifted slowly, and his heart squeezed at the caution in her eyes. “We’re alone now, but even if we weren’t, I’d prefer you call me Sean.”

She nodded and looked away, apparently reluctant to maintain his gaze.

“Emma,” he said again, his voice as serious as it had ever been, and this time her eyes met and held his. “I hurt you deeply I know, losing my temper at Kearney’s that day, and I want you to understand that it will never happen again.” He swallowed hard, emotion thickening the walls of his throat. “That degree of anger … well, it’s only happened twice in my life, and I regret one of those times was with you.” He paused, seconds ticking away like minutes. “Will you forgive me? Please?”

“I’ve forgiven you,” she whispered, but it didn’t ease the wariness in her face.

“No, I don’t think you have. We’re friends—good friends. But somehow I feel that friendship has been cut off—”

“That’s not true …” she said too softly, a twinge of pain in her eyes.

“Isn’t it? You’re not comfortable with me anymore, and you avoid me like the plague.”

The timidity of her manner broke his heart as her gaze lowered once again. “You scared me, Sean,” she whispered. “I thought I knew you …”

“You do know me, Emma. We’ve known each other through thick and thin, weathered crises together, partnered in Pinochle and Dominoes and horseshoes in the summer. I’ve told you things I’ve never told my sisters, and we’ve given each other advice and support during rough times. Please don’t let one stupid mistake on my part take that all away.”

Her fingers shook as she picked at her food, gaze fused to the beef on the foil. When she finally spoke, her words were frail and low. “Forgive me, Sean, please, but I’m afraid that when one has lived with a violent man, fear can become a constant companion.” A muscle jerked beneath the creamy skin of her throat as she continued, the waver in her voice piercing him as her eyes trailed into a cold stare. “The first time Rory lost his temper in a fit of rage, he broke my jaw. Until then, I never knew he was even capable of such anger because he was always so gentle and kind, so devoted while we courted, and even after.” The faintest of shivers skittered over her like a ripple on a mirror lake. “I remember feeling so safe with him because he was nothing like my father, nothing like the man who would rage and roar over the slightest little thing.”

“Emma, I’m sorry …” he whispered, the pain in his heart bleeding into his voice.

“I know you are, Sean, and I’m sorry too.” Her gaze rose to meet his. “But the truth is, once that happens to a human heart, ‘sorry’ is never quite enough again.”

He swallowed the ache in his throat. “What can I do, Emma, to win back your trust?”

The barest of smiles tempered some of the wariness in her eyes. “You can give me time and patience, Sean, until this uneasiness fades. You can understand that although I value your friendship immensely, a part of me is not only struggling over trusting you again, but also a little angry that I even have to.”

He leaned forward, eyes intense. “I will win your trust, Emma, you have my word.”

“I know,” she said quietly. “But it will take time.”

Exhaling deeply, he slowly rose and extended his hand across the desk. “Well, there’s no time like the present.” His manner was easy despite the vise crushing his chest. “Shall we start over?”

She looked up, staring at him for several moments, as if torn between her fear and her willingness to give him another chance. He watched the muscles in her face slowly relax and felt the knot in his chest unravel like a clenched fist unfolding into an open palm. She gave him a gentle nod, and carefully shook his hand, releasing it almost immediately. “Thank you,” he whispered, his stomach beginning to rumble. He quickly reached for his fork and speared the beef, grinning like a little boy with a big crush on a little girl. “This looks incredible. When do you have time to cook like this?”

Some of the stiffness left her body as she eased back in the chair. “On Sundays. It’s the only day I really get to rest and forget about the store. I enjoy fixing dinner for my eighteen-year-old neighbor, Casey, and my elderly landlady, Mrs. Peep. We have a lot fun together—the three of us generations apart, yet giggling and playing dominoes like school girls at a party. Livvie’s mother Susan used to work here at Dennehy’s, but she returned to Kansas to care for her sick mother. She asked me to watch out for her daughter, so Casey and I have become very close.”

“Let me see,” Sean said with an exaggerated drawl, “you single-handedly manage one of the most popular stores in Boston, you make time for my family, Alli and Mrs. Tunny, you befriend my sister, which is a full-time job in itself, and now you also play nursemaid to a teenage girl and cook for your neighbors?” He took a bite of the corned beef and chewed, his eyes warm with approval. “You’re amazing.”

A soft blush dotted her cheeks. “As far as managing the store, you forget I don’t do that alone anymore,” she said with a shy smile. She bit off a tiny corner of the beef. “You’ve only been here a week, and I honestly don’t know how we managed without you.” She hefted her chin in an uncustomary show of pluck. “It appears Mr. Kelly is not only a moron, but a fool.”

He laughed, something he did a lot in her presence, and it felt good. He snatched some meat and took a bite while he leaned back in his chair, more relaxed than he’d felt in a long time. “I do believe that’s the harshest thing I’ve ever heard out of those soft-spoken lips, Mrs. Malloy,” he said, teasing her with his eyes. “Obviously my sister’s a bad influence.”

A low laugh rippled from her lips. “Don’t be too sure about that. With Charity, at least one knows where they stand, which in some ways, is the height of honesty, being a woman so forthcoming. While I on the other hand, remain a mystery—even to myself.”

“A mystery,” he whispered, the very word intriguing him—like the woman herself. He chewed slowly, his blood warming at the prospect of exploring the inner recesses of this woman who drew him. For the first time, he understood fully the true treasure she was in his life, and his heart began to thud at the prospect of slowly unwrapping the gift that was Emma Malloy ...

~End of Excerpt~

Amber: Oh, thanks so much for sharing that, Julie!

During “Reading Retreats Week” last year, I told my story about reading your debut book A Passion Most Pure in Borders and up in a tree during the Senior Picnic at a Boy Scouts camp. Do you have a favorite reading retreat—a place where you most like to read? Or do you have a fun story about the strangest place you’re been caught reading?

Julie: A favorite “reading retreat,” eh? Well, I’m afraid my reading time is not very glamorous as the only time I have to read is in the car when my husband is driving, in the powder room, doctor appointments, standing in lines at stores or briefly before I go to bed. I carry a book and a little book light in my purse at all times, so surprisingly, I can read about six books a month that way, which is pretty good, I think.

As far as the strangest place I’ve read, I once read a review by a blogger I didn’t know who said she read about four chapters of A Passion Most Pure one night, then got up the next morning and decided to get a bath while reading some more and ended up finishing the book … in the bathtub!! I figured if she could do it, I’d try it, but I didn’t like it at all as it was uncomfortable holding the book out of the water. So I guess the craziest places I’ve read is when I am driving and stopped at a red light or a train crossing because if a book is really good, I will literally read it at every stop light.

Amber: It is hard to read in the bathtub and keep the book from getting wet! ;) And you know you're an avid reader when you always carry a book with you at all times (like in the car!), right?

If we could celebrate this blogoversary in “real life” (as a tangible party and not just a cyber party) and you were asked to help come up with ideas for party costumes, what would you suggest?

Julie: Oh, no question about it—a Gone With the Wind party!! My friends at work actually threw a Gone With the Wind surprise party for me after I got published, which was SO much fun!! When I arrived at the house, there was a big poster of Scarlett with her fist in the air with the caption: As God is my witness, I will never go unpublished again! I was met at the door by one of the gal’s moms who is four-foot-eleven 92-year-old everybody called Grammy, and she was dressed in a “Mammy” outfit with head wrap and all. They rented a Scarlett dress for me to wear and piped Tara’s theme throughout the house while they served mint juleps and a Southern-style luncheon. It was WONDERFUL!! Also, when I was sixteen, my first job was at a theatre showing GWTW, and the manager paid for us to be costumed in hoop-skirt Southern belle ball gowns with upsweep curly hairdos. That was SO much fun, that I would LOVE to have a GWTW party with authentic Southern belle dresses like that, fun updos and a Southern BBQ with all the fixin’s. Sweet tea in Georgia, that sure does sound wonderful!

Amber: Sounds awesome! Do you have a funny memory you can share with us from a party/celebration that you attended or hosted this past year?

Julie: No funny stories in the last year, but I did have a very questionable dinner party I threw years ago that was a total disaster. As you know, I joke about having MSD (Martha Stewart Disease) because I have been known to pipe dinner guests’ initials into their twice-baked potatoes! At times I would throw elaborate dinner parties in various themes and one time decided to do an authentic Italian dinner with veal parmagian, Italian broccoli, pasta and an Italian dessert called Spoom. I had never made veal before and asked the butcher for veal patties. They looked so small to me, that I doubled them up and they ended up looking like blimps on the plates with almost no sauce. I followed directions for the broccoli to a T, but all the heads fell off, leaving only tree trunks. The dessert was a frozen custard/pudding with strawberries in it that you pulled out of the freezer and poured champagne over.

The dinner went from bad to worse. The minute I cut into the veal, I made the mistake of saying something like, “Gosh, it’s hard to believe veal is made out of baby cows.” All of a sudden you heard forks clink to the plates as everybody lost their appetite for the veal blimp on their plate. They had to scoop the broccoli floret pieces up with their spoons like tiny peas and when it came to the dessert, all you heard were forks clinking against glass because the pudding froze rock solid. All in all, it was a REALLY embarrassing experience that my friends and I laughed about later.

Amber: Hahaha, nice one, Julie! ;) Reminds me of the scene in the first Anne of Green Gables movie, when Anne tells Miss Stacie not to eat the pudding because a mouse drowned in it!

Thank you so much for being our guest today, Julie--it's always a treat to host you!

The Giveaway

Julie has generously offered to give away a signed copy of the winner's choice of one of her books (including A Heart Revealed!!!) to one lucky commenter! To check out all of Julie's books, you can visit her website.

Just leave a comment for Julie along with your e-mail address for a chance to win!

(Everyone loves a good mystery, right? Well, don't forget to join me tomorrow for some mystery fun with author S. Dionne Moore as we reminisce Mystery Week!)

A Wonderful Package!

I simply have to share with you what came in the mail today!!! My caring mom understood how much I wanted certain books that were coming to my home right after I left for college, so at the end of last week she sent them up to Corban University--priority mail! Today I got the box with three books I am very anxious to read:

A Hope Undaunted

There has been so much excitement about this book the past few months that I can't believe I actually have my copy! I know I will want to dive into this one as soon as possible! However, I've already been pulling a couple of late-nighters (into the wee hours of the morning), so I know I need to be sure and get some sleep. ;)

But I know that when I do read this I won't be disappointed! After all, it's a book by Julie Lessman!

A Memory Between Us

I haven't read the first in this series, but I've been hearing good things about this author! I'm excited about the time period of the novel, plus the romance, of course! Love that cover, too!




Petra: City of Stone

I've got to tell you--I am so happy to have an Advanced Reader Edition of this book! It's been about a year since her last novel, Guardian of the Flame, came out, and I can't wait to read another book by T.L. Higley. I'm looking forward to being transported to another time through the pages of this book!

Now, as I'm sure many of you have heard, Casey is having a contest on her blog for the best picture of the entrants holding their copies of A Hope Undaunted while imitating the cover model. Such a fun idea! Click HERE to check out the official rules for the contest.

I saw on Joy's blog, Edgy Inspirational Romance, that she was showing the pictures she had taken for the contest. And at my roomie's urging and due to my own excitement, I'd like to share my picture entry with you, too!

Thank you to my friend, Annie, for taking the picture for me! I tried to find the timer feature for the camera, but I was having trouble, so I just asked her to come up to my room and take it for me. I was so happy I had my blue dress with me, even if the necklace is not quite as long as it ought to be. We college students have to deal with what we've got, you know. ;)

Hope you all are having a wonderful Monday!

P.S. I'm sorry that I didn't do "Monday for the Military" today, but I do hope we will keep all those military men and women (and their families) in our prayers!

150th Post Celebration!

Welcome to the party and book discussion, everyone! Since there has been so much excitement about Julie Lessman's books recently, I hope that it's alright if we discuss the last book of hers that I read: A Passion Denied. I think many of you have read it, and if you haven't, then feel free to join in the party anyway!

Before we get started with the book discussion, though, let's get the party started! I'm sure many of you have either read or heard of the book Making Waves by Lorna Seilstad. I'm not too far into the story, but I'm really enjoying it so far! Anyway, in honor of this book, how about we go sailing?

The weather is just right, don't you think? I love the warmth with a slight breeze surrounded by blue skies! Ashley, dear, don't lean out too far! Don't tell me you're trying to get Trip to rescue you? ;)

After sailing, perhaps we can play some miniature golf! Each person pick their favorite-colored golf ball. Oh, Renee, I think I found a black one with gold spots for you!

Julia, I had no idea you were so good at this! ;) We can all chat about Julie Lessman's books while we wait for our turns.

Now, after all of the fun and games, wouldn't it be great to find a nice place for an elegant meal, with comfortable chairs set up for our book discussion? What do you think of this?

Pretty neat, huh? I think it's just the right atmosphere for our party/book discussion! As far as food goes, there's some fresh fruit (grapes, sliced oranges, and strawberries), cheese, and dainty sandwiches. And of course we have dessert! Help yourself to some "Death by Chocolate" cake, lemon cake, vanilla ice cream, and more strawberries (this time dipped in chocolate!).

Go ahead and pile up your plates while I tell you about the giveaway! I recently read Love, Charleston and one of you can have a chance to read it, too. =) Since there will be various comments not pertaining to the giveaway, remember that you must let me know you want to be entered in the drawing, you must leave your e-mail address in your comment, you must be a follower, and you must have a U.S. mailing address if you want to enter the giveaway. The drawing is for today only, and a winner will be announced on Sunday! Be sure and read my review of this book first, just so you know what sort of book this is before you decide to enter the giveaway.

Is everyone settled in now? Casey, you can get more food than that--there's plenty for everyone! And Bluerose, you are going to have a piece of the "Death by Chocolate" cake, right? Now, let's get the discussion of A Passion Denied going!

--The verses at the beginning of the book are Psalm 104:1-4 (NLT), which read, "O Lord my God, how great you are! You are robed with honor and with majesty . . . You make the clouds your chariot; you ride upon the wings of the wind. The winds are your messengers; flames of fire are your servants." What parts/ideas of the book really stood out for you as reminders that God is majestic and sovereign? And do you think the last verse describes Brady well? Why or why not? Or do you think it describes another character better?

--Who do you feel you relate to more: Brady or Beth/Lizzie? Whose struggles and hopes most fit your own?

--Do you agree or disagree with Lizzie's pursuit of Brady? Do you think she could have handled her feelings for Brady better or done (or not done) things differently to get his attention and convince him of her love for him?

--What did you learn from Marcy and Patrick's story in this particular book? Were you left encouraged and moved by how it all turned out?

There is a lot more to discuss from this book, so feel free to offer your own questions or only answer a few (or all) of the questions above. Whatever you would like to do! =)

Enjoy the celebration, and thank you for continuing to make blogging such a treat for me! You readers are wonderful!

(Pictures above are from my trip to Nevada this summer. The first is from Lake Tahoe, the second is from a golf course near Lake Tahoe, and the third is from a building--part of a former "Cider Factory"--near where we ate breakfast outside during our stay at Edith Palmer's Country Inn in Virginia City.)

Reading Retreats: In Borders and Up a Tree

There are many interesting places to read a book, and today I want to share with you one of my favorite reading-places stories. It involves a book by one of our favorite authors: A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman.

It all began in Borders over a year ago, about a month or two before I was to graduate from high school. I began reading A Passion Most Pure little by little, snatching some reading time whenever we went to the mall. Then one day I "met" Julie on a blog, and I told her about how I was reading her book in Borders. I was promptly given the nickname "Borders Girl," and Julie and I formed a great friendship. I'm sure most of you would agree that Julie is one of the friendliest people you'll meet in the blogging world!

Anyway, I eventually got my dad to buy me the book. I don't think I was even halfway through when he bought it for me, so I got to enjoy the rest of it outside Borders. That's where the tree comes in.

For our senior class picnic we went to a local Boy Scout camp. There was a clearing with some trees where we gathered to hang out when we weren't running amok in the woods. Of those trees in the clearing, one of them became a fantastic "reading retreat!" I sat in that tree and continued reading A Passion Most Pure, falling more in love with the characters and becoming more entangled in their drama. What a book!

In time I finished A Passion Most Pure and I won an autographed copy of A Passion Redeemed. That's me with my great copy of the second book in Julie's series at my grandparents' house last year. And that might be an example of my "Why are you taking a picture of me right now?" face. ;)

I'll leave it to you, my readers, to decide whether the moral of this story is that Julie's books are wonderful and you can read them anywhere, or that reading in different, interesting places makes for a memorable experience and an entertaining story. Maybe it's both?

"A Hot Summer Day" with Julie Lessman

I hope everyone brought some lemonade, sunglasses, and sunscreen--along with a warm welcome for author Julie Lessman!

It is my great pleasure to have Julie join us today! I "met" Julie a little over a year ago, when she was visiting various blogs and promoting her books. We ended up becoming friends after I told her my story about reading her first book, A Passion Most Pure, little by little when I would go to Borders. Eventually, my dad bought me the book, which I finished (not in Borders!) and absolutely enjoyed! I ended up earning the nickname "Borders Girl" from Julie. =)

This just goes to show you how sweet Julie is! We recently discussed A Passion Most Pure on this blog, and I was once again blown away by Julie's kindness. She took the time to address each one of us who commented personally, and she contributed to our discussion in great ways!

All this to say that Julie is not only a fabulous author, but also a fantastic friend! Here's some more information about her:

"Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of 'Passion With a Purpose' underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. Winner of the 2009 ACFW Debut Author of the Year and Holt Medallion Awards of Merit for Best First Book and Long Inspirational, Julie is also the recipient of 13 Romance Writers of America awards and was voted by readers as 'Borders Best of 2009 So Far: Your Favorite Fiction' at http://www.borders.com/online/store/ListView_best2009favefiction. She resides in Missouri with her husband, daughter, son and daughter-in-law and is the author of The Daughters of Boston series, which includes A Passion Most Pure, A Passion Redeemed, and A Passion Denied. You can contact Julie through her website at www.julielessman.com."

And now, here's Julie!

Amber: What is your favorite summer activity?

Julie: Gosh, Amber, there are SO many—boating, biking, the Muny Opera outdoor theatre or just sitting on my back deck in the woods writing books. BUT … I would have to say my “favorite” summer activity would be laying out in the sun. I love the smell of Hawaiian Tropics coconut suntan lotion while sprawling in a chaise lounge and reading a book or listening to oldies. Of course, this would be ideal by a pool or a beach, but since we live in the woods without either, I have to drag my chaise to the only spot with sun—my driveway! Rest assured that because I am an “oldie,” I have the good sense to strategically park our cars so that neither the neighbors nor passing vehicles are seriously traumatized. =)

Amber: In A Hope Undaunted, Katie must spend a summer with her childhood nemesis. Could you share a summer scene with them that will make us swoon?

Julie: Well, I don’t know if it’s a bonafide “swoon” scene since there is no kissing involved, but here’s part of a summer scene where the gang from the Boston Childen’s Aid Society are celebrating Betty Galetti’s birthday. Keep in mind it’s the era of prohibition, so alcohol is illegal, but women often wore flasks of alcohol strapped to their thighs, which is the case with Bobbie Sue, Betty’s friend. Luke orders “near beer” for everyone, a nonalcoholic beer, but unbeknownst to him, Bobbie Sue secretly pours alcohol in Katie’s drink, making her tipsy. This starts out in Katie’s point of view, then switches to Luke’s:

“Katie, wait up!”

“Oh-oh,” Betty said with a quick glance over her shoulder. “We got trouble.” She pressed her lips to Katie’s ear. “Let me do the talking, you hear?”

Luke huffed to a stop, hands on his knees while Parker trailed behind with a grim look in his eyes. “Betty, Bobbie Sue—Parker’s going to walk you back to the house while I take Katie home. I need to speak with her father.”

Betty and Parker exchanged glances. Pursing her lips, Betty tightened her hold on Katie’s arm. “Her parents are at a wedding tonight, Luke, so no need. Besides, Katie wants to show me something, so we’ll walk her home.”

Luke tucked an arm around Betty’s shoulder. “Sorry, Galetti, I promised her father I’d get her home safe and sound.” He patted her cheek, then tugged on Katie’s arm. “Come on, Katie Rose.”

Katie stumbled against him, nose flat against his rock-hard chest. The smell of musk and soap teased her senses, forcing the blood to warm beneath her skin. She closed her eyes and emitted a soft, little moan, wishing she could stay there forever.

He clutched her with a chuckle. “The near beer set you on your ear, Katie Rose?”

“Luke, I told you, we can walk her home,” Betty attempted to peel her from Luke’s chest, but Katie only released a languid sigh, curling her arms around his waist.

Instantly, his muscles tensed beneath her hold. “Katie?”

She slowly lifted her head and blinked, lost in the hard chiseled line of his jaw, the dangerous cleft in his chin and those blue eyes that always pierced right through her.

Like now.

He held her at arm’s length, scanning her face with fatal accuracy. His eyes darkened to pewter in the lamplight. “Are you drunk?”

“She’s just feeling the effects of that one drink,” Betty said quickly. She tugged her from Luke’s hold, causing Katie to wobble on her heels. “I’m taking her home, now.”

Luke yanked her back. “Get your hands off her. I want to see her walk.”

He let go of her arm, and Katie swore the group of them were running in circles. She closed her eyes, but the spinning got worse, forcing the food in her stomach to rise.

“Katie!” Her eyes popped open at Luke’s command. “Walk to me—now!”

She stared, incensed at his order and wishing he’d just stand still, for pity’s sake. Her chin jutted up as she propped hands to her hips, ignoring the fact she was swaying as much as he was. “I don like your attitude, Mcgee. Why don you walk ta me?”

Bobbie Sue snorted.

Luke’s jaw hardened, defying his gentle tone. “Katie, will you please walk over here?”

“Musch better,” she said with satisfaction and proceeded to sashay to where he stood, focusing hard on each step she took. A smile sprouted on her lips as she approached … until a ridiculous cobblestone tripped her up and sent her flying into his arms. Inhaling deeply, she was intoxicated by the scent of him and looked up with a silly grin. “They really need to fix that.”

Suddenly she was airborne, swooped up in his arms with cheek pressed hard to his chest. She sighed and let her head drop back in contentment. “Mmm … this is nice.”

A swear word sizzled the air.

“So help me, somebody’s going to pay for this.” Luke seared Betty with a glare. “Did you give her more booze?”

Betty hunched her shoulders. “Not all that much. She’s just a lightweight.”

He swore again. “She’s eighteen, Galetti, and my responsibility. For pity’s sake, she can barely walk.” He seared Parker with a look. “And you? You let them do this?”

Parker shoved his hands in his pockets, the slump of his shoulders clear evidence of his guilt. “I wasn’t there, Luke, because I left to pay the bill. But the bottom line is she did it to herself. Nobody forced her to drink it, unless it was you with all your bullying.” He sighed. “You should know by now you can’t tell Katie what to do.”

“Nope.” A soft giggle bubbled from Katie’s throat, followed by a hiccup.

Luke hoisted her roughly to his chest, blistering all of them with a look that signaled his good humor was long since spent. “You better start praying right now, Parker, that I beat her parents home, or you and I, ol’ buddy, will be licking Carmichael’s boots for a long time to come. That is, if he doesn’t give us the boot first.” He spun on his heel and started to jog toward Donovan Street, grateful he was in shape from the gym. He glanced down at Katie with her eyes closed and a dreamy smile on her lips, and he was tempted to dump her sorry, little carcass on the front porch where her father would find her. Confinement for the next three years—that’s what the little brat needed.

“Luke, we’re sorry!” Betty called, but he ignored it, too furious at himself for talking Patrick O’Connor into allowing Katie to come along. The man had clearly been hesitant, unwilling to break with his daughter’s confinement, but Luke had convinced him she’d earned it. He swore under his breath. He had no one to blame but himself.

A wobbly giggle floated up and he glanced down, his heart softening at the look of innocence on her face as she bounced in his arms. And suddenly, he couldn’t help it—a smile pulled at his lips when she spoke, her words disrupted by every stride he took. “Ar-re … y-you … swe-aring … un-der … y-your … bre-ath, … Lu-ke Mc-Gee?”

“You bet I am. You have that effect on me,” he said, breathing hard and fast.

Her sweet face bunched in a frown. “O-oh, … tha-at’s n-not … g-good, … is it?”

He grinned. “No, ma’am, it’s not.” He slowed as he rounded the corner of Donovan Street, squinting hard to see if her father’s Model T was parked at the curb.

Thank you, God! The street was empty in front of their house, and all was dark except for their porch light. He reached their front walk, huffing like he’d just run the Boston Marathon, then butted Katie with his knee and opened the gate. Her soft giggle rose like a caress. He glanced down, and her eyes met his with a gentle smile. “Thanks,” she whispered, drawing his gaze to her mouth. He swallowed hard, suddenly painfully aware of her body in his arms. With a nervous exhale, he propped her next to the door.

Get her inside, McGee, and into her bed.

The thought took his mind in the wrong direction, unleashing a throb of heat so strong, shame crawled up the back of his neck. “Do you have a key?” he asked hoarsely, his voice little more than a croak.

Amber: Wow! What a scene! I am definitely quite eager to get my hands on this book! To get a better idea of Katie's character, could you tell us what her favorite part about summer would be?

Julie: Going out with her boyfriend Jack and her friends to picture shows, Robinson’s for a soda or just attending a women’s rights rally.

Amber: My rating system on this blog is a seasonal one--with "Summer" being the highest rating. Do you have any advice on writing a savory, "Summer" rating-worthy book?

Julie: My number one piece of advice would be that whatever you write, make sure it’s from the heart and a true passion. If you love women’s fiction, write women’s fiction. If you love mysteries, write mysteries. If you like literary novels, write literary novels.

For years, I was a businesswoman and professional writer who looked down my nose at romance books because I didn’t consider them “literature.” I wouldn’t allow myself to even read a romance, much less write one, but after I turned 50, I felt like God set me free from my snobbery. It’s as if he said, “Julie, romance is your passion—write it for me.” So I did.

As far as more practical advice for writing a “rating-worthy” book for the Christian market and getting it published, here is the list of things that I did, which I think is pretty consistent with a lot of published writers:

1.) Join ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers at http://www.americanchristianfictionwriters.com/), FHL (Faith, Hope & Love at http://www.faithhopelove-rwa.org/) and RWA (Romance Writers of America at http://www.rwanational.org/), both to get connected with other like-minded writers and to learn a lot about your craft.

2.) Take a fiction-writing class or attend a writing seminar or conference.

3.) Join a critique group (you can do that through ACFW).

4.) Purchase and study writing books such as Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King or Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maas, AND invest in a great thesaurus such as The Synonym Finder by Rodale Press (my writer’s bible!!).

5.) Enter contests for invaluable feedback, growth, confidence, networking opportunities and to get your name out there.

6.) Frequent websites/blogs that deal with writing, such as The Seekers (http://seekerville.blogspot.com/), a group blog that I belong to whose theme is “On the road to publication. Writing, contests, publication and everything in between.”

7.) Go for an agent first, publisher second.

8.) Then pray your heart out and put it in God’s hands.

Thanks, Amber, for this wonderful opportunity to visit with you and your readers! Anybody who leaves a comment will be entered in a giveaway to receive a signed copy of the book of their choice from “The Daughters of Boston” series OR my latest release, A Hope Undaunted, due out September 1^st. God bless!

Hugs,

Julie

Amber: Thank you so much for visiting with us today, Julie! What a wonderful way to spend a summer day! Don't you agree, readers?

Be sure and leave a comment with your valid e-mail address for a chance to win one of Julie's books! The drawing will be open from July 9 through July 23, with a winner announced on July 24. Here's to a hot summer day!

Book Discussion: A Passion Most Pure

Welcome to the first ever book discussion on "Seasons of Humility!" Before we get started, I wanted to share the poll results with you.

Our first poll asked the question: "What is your favorite genre of fiction books?" Of the eleven who responded, the breakdown was as follows:

• Suspense (1--9%)
• Romance (4--36%)
• Historical (5--45%)
• Science Fiction (0--0%)
• Mystery (1--9%)
• Other (0--0%)
  

It's nice to know that the people who read my blog share similar interests with me. Of course, the fact that you read my blog might be because we have similar interests! Funny how that works. =) Well, I read a lot of Christian Romance and Christian Historical Romance, so you can get your fix of your favorite fiction here!

As to the other poll, there was an overwhelming majority in favor of discussing Julie Lessman's A Passion Most Pure. (And this book just happens to fit into the Historical Romance category!) I am happy to oblige! Julie's debut book is simply fabulous! It's been about a year since I've read the book, though, so I hope I can still lead a good book discussion!

That being said, for any who haven't yet read the book, it is possible (actually, quite likely) that there will be some spoilers given away throughout the course of this discussion. If you're the kind of person who doesn't mind and you would still like to be a part of the discussion, feel free to join in! If not, however, than maybe just reading this far in the post will inspire you to pick up Julie's book. =) I highly recommend it!

And one more order of business: I have a wonderful surprise for all of you! Be sure to stop by on Friday, July 9, because I'm going to be featuring Julie Lessman here--on this blog! And yes, there will be a giveaway! It's going to spectacular, so be sure to mark your calendars!

And now for the book discussion! I'll get us started by asking a few questions and/or making a few comments on the book. How deep the discussion goes will be entirely up to you. I might be out and about for a while tomorrow, but I'll try to stop by occasionally to respond and guide the discussion as best I can. And I think Julie herself might grace us with her very sweet and very fun presence, so be on the lookout! =)

First, here's the description of the book from Revell:

"She's found the love of her life.
Unfortunately, he loves her sister.

As World War I rages across the Atlantic in 1916, a smaller war is brewing in Boston. Faith O'Connor finds herself drawn to an Irish rogue who is anything but right for her. Collin McGuire is brash, cocky, and from the wrong side of the tracks, not to mention forbidden by her father. And then there's the small matter that he is secretly courting her younger sister. But when Collin's affections shift, it threatens to tear her proper Boston family apart.

Book 1 of the Daughters of Boston series, A Passion Most Pure will carry your heart from the sophisticated streets of Boston to the green hills of Ireland as men go off to war and women long for their return. Full of passion, romance, rivalry, and betrayal, it will captivate you from the first page."

So (finally!) here are my observations/questions to get us going:

• The verse at the beginning of the book is Ecclesiastes 2:26, which says, "To the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind" (NIV). Why do think Julie Lessman chose this verse to start out the book, and how do you think it fits with the story?

• I found it to be an intriguing twist that instead of having the story focus on three sisters--Faith, Hope, and Charity--only Faith and Charity have a "real" part. In fact, Hope was Faith's twin sister, but she died before the story even begins. What do you think the author was trying to say through this symbolism? What is the effect of having already lost "hope" before the start of the book?

• On page 303, Faith says, "Mitch, please understand, my faith means the world to me. I have every intention of saving my . . . well, my affections . . . for the man I marry. I want to see you, I do. But I can't indulge in 'favors,' as you put it, because they're wrong. That means if you and I are going to have a relationship, I need you to know I mean what I say. We can occasionally kiss, Mitch, but when I say no, the kissing is over. And if it isn't, the relationship is." What do you think of Faith's stand? Do you think she is demanding too much, or too little? Should she let a man she is not married to kiss her at all?

• When it comes to Collin, sparks fly for more than one sister. Do you think you could ever love a man who had loved your sister first? And do you think it's possible that a man can change because of a woman's love (or vice versa)? How would you be able to tell if he had truly changed, or if he was just putting on a show? (Feel free to cite examples from the book.)

Whew! I could go on and on, I'm sure. =) I've given you some food for thought, and I'd love to hear your feedback! Don't feel like you have to address all these questions! Address just one, or all if you desire. I'll check in later!

Let the discussion begin!