My Review of Love Finds You in Folly Beach

Here's a description of the book from Summerside Press:

"First impressions, thank goodness, really can’t be trusted!

When marine biologist Holly Leonard agrees to help Parker Brant write a book on giant sea turtles, she expects a charming and charismatic charter boat captain—not the strait-laced, all-business dud who greets her.

For his part, Parker is surprised to find that Dr. Leonard is not the matronly grandmother he expected but a blue-eyed beauty who’s lively, fun— and a total klutz. Unfortunately, the harder Holly tries to shed her “Holly Folly” nickname, the clumsier she becomes.

Holly has breezed into Parker’s well-ordered world like a hurricane—but will he welcome the disruption?"

My Rating: Spring

My Review:

Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina is your ticket to fun in the sun this winter! Holly Leonard may be a scientist, but she's not the lab-coat-wearing, stereotypical scientist. She's a marine biologist with a chipper attitude and a penchant for falling and tripping - which Parker Brant finds absolutely irresistible. It's rather enjoyable to read about a former military man with a heaping dose of "un-chipper" in his life who can't help falling in love with a kind girl who can't help falling!

Right away this book charmed me with chuckles and cheer. Unfortunately, as the story continued I found that I didn't always understand the characters. There seemed to be some inside jokes and mutual feelings among the characters that didn't always translate well. However, while being a bit frustrating in that sense, this book still has a lot to offer in terms of sweetness, setting descriptions, and lessons on love. And there are enough laughs to go around, even without "getting" everything.

With its combination of humor and more somber emotions, Love Finds You in Folly Beach is a bit reminiscent of Lough's Love Finds You in North Pole, Alaska. But with a very different (much warmer!) setting and some unique plot twists, this book stands out as a great addition to the "Love Finds You" series.

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

"Love Finds You" Blog Party Winners!

Acknowledgements:

Thank you so very much to all of the authors (Roseanna, Miralee, Robin, Melanie, and Loree) for your generosity in terms of time and prizes!! I hope this week celebrating the "Love Finds You" series was an encouragement to all of you!

And thank you to all of my readers and new friends for making this week a success! I appreciate your comments and your excitement regarding the party and the book series!!

We have winners!!!

• $15 Amazon.com gift card + 2 copies of Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland = Ariel!
• Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland = Geschumann (Gloria)!
• Love Finds You in Sundance, Wyoming = Ali!
• Love Finds You in Sunset Beach, Hawaii = steveandcami!
• Love Finds You in Nazareth, Pennsylvania = Jackie S!
• Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina = Casey and Katie McCurdy!

Winners will be e-mailed and will have 1 week to respond (or another winner will be chosen). Congratulations!!

Hope you all enjoyed the "Love Finds You" blog party!!

Love Finds You With Understanding

Loree won me over with one of her previous "Love Finds You" books - Love Finds You in North Pole, Alaska - and now I am quite eager to read her latest! (You can read my review of LFY in North Pole HERE.) Want to learn more about Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina and find out how you can win a copy for you or a friend? Read on!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Loree: Though I've always made a practice of visiting the places where my stories take place, the settings for the Love Finds You series have all been so fun and exciting! And because Summerside prefers to deliver lighthearted, uplifting novels to their loyal fans, I get to have as much fun as the readers do!

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book? If so, what was your favorite part of the trip?

Loree: It's a tossup between the Folly Beach fishing pier and the crazy little boat that washed ashore during Hurricane Hugo (where locals and tourists alike paint all sorts of messages on the hull). On second thought, maybe the Morris Island Lighthouse. Or the fantastic restaurants. Hmm…I'm thinking I'll have to get back to you on that!

Amber: Sounds like there's a lot to love about Folly Beach!

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Loree: Absolutely! As Holly (the heroine) learned that she's lovable, despite her slightly-klutzy tendencies, I learned that my own eccentricities are more tolerable than I'd once thought. And, as Parker (the hero) grapples with his mom's dishonesty, I learned that even parents have feet of clay…and need forgiveness and understanding.

Amber: What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Loree: First, there'd be lots of colorful lights on the cottage terraces and vacation house balconies that overlook the Atlantic. And because the weather is (mostly) beautiful, even in December, the Christmas banquet would take place on the deck, so that the guests could gobble up crab cakes and fish gumbo along with the traditional ham dinner and sides…and so that we could put up our feet while eating our pecan pie, watching the waves crash onto shore all around the historic Morris Island Lighthouse!

Amber: Count me in! Thanks so much for joining us today, Loree! Can't wait to read this book!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a signed copy of Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina to 2 winners! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Loree along with your e-mail address.

• You must have a U.S. mailing address in order to be eligible for this drawing.

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011. (That's soon, so don't delay - enter today!!)

(Folly Beach pictures from the Folly Beach website. You can learn more about Loree at her website!)

Love Finds You in the Christmas Spirit

'Tis the season! From Melanie's research trip to the title and cover of her latest "Love Finds You" book, this particular interview is filled with Christmas cheer. Enjoy the theme and read on to learn about a great gift opportunity (for you or a friend)!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Melanie: First of all, I love working with the Summerside team! They’ve been such an encouragement to me, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed partnering with them. Second, I love researching small towns across the country and then creating a fictional story from their history and heritage. Right now I’m writing my fifth Love Finds You novel (Love Finds You in Mackinac Island, Michigan).

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book? If so, what was your favorite part of the trip?

Melanie: I always visit the towns where my Love Finds You books are set. Sometimes I think my novel writing is really an excuse to travel and explore because I really (really!) enjoy researching these towns. In my first Love Finds You novel (Liberty, Indiana), I crawled around in all sorts of secret spaces that were once hiding places on the Underground Railroad. For the Amana novels (Love Finds You in Homestead and Amana, Iowa), I explored the picturesque Amana Colonies for almost a week. Then for my latest novel (Love Finds You in Nazareth, Pennsylvania), I took a night tour last year of the beautiful Christmas lights in Nazareth while learning about its Moravian heritage.

Amber: Those sound like some great trips!

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Melanie: Those two themes are woven throughout Love Finds You in Nazareth, Pennsylvania because the story is about a married couple selected by Lot to be husband and wife. Even as he marries Susanna, Christian Boehler loves another woman in his heart, and he often fails Susanna in the first year of their marriage. The story is about choosing forgiveness over anger and replacing bitterness with both love and grace.

Amber: What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Melanie: Oh, it would have been a grand celebration! The Moravian people embraced the Christmas season and the depth of its meaning--so much so that their two major settlements in Pennsylvania were named Bethlehem and Nazareth. On Christmas Eve, the sanctuary would have glowed from the tallow candles they held as they feasted together on spicy sugar cakes and black coffee and worshipped God in song: “Good news from heav’n the angels bring…All my heart this night rejoices.”

Thanks, Amber! It’s a pleasure to celebrate with you.

Amber: It's a pleasure to host you, Melanie! Thank you for your wonderful responses and helping us get in the Christmas mood!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a signed copy of Love Finds You in Nazareth, Pennsylvania! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Melanie along with your e-mail address.

• This drawing is open to readers everywhere! (International giveaway!)
  

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011.

(Learn more about Melanie at her website!)

Love Finds You in Beautiful Places

I had the great pleasure of hearing Robin Jones Gunn speak at our school's Woman to Woman Conference last February - and let me tell you, Robin has a lot of wonderful things to say! So grab a cinnamon roll and some tropical fruit to enjoy while you take in this lovely interview - and Robin's beautiful pictures of Hawaii!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Robin: My favorite part of the “Love Finds You” format is the summary at the beginning of the book that gives the history of the location. I loved digging a little deeper into the beginnings of the Sunset Beach area.

One of the best things about writing destination novels is having a chance to visit amazing places and then crafting a story in that setting. I’ve done this sort of onsite research for most of the novels I’ve written over the past ten years.

What made “Love Finds You in Sunset Beach, Hawaii” even more delightful was that I was writing about my home state. I live on a different island so I had to bring the characters to my corner of Hawaii first and then send them on to the North Shore on Oahu so they could meet at Sunset Beach. As I was writing I felt as if I was sharing my favorite parts of this beautiful paradise with the characters but more importantly with the readers.

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book?

Robin: Oops! I think I jumped ahead in my last answer and covered most of this answer.

I will add that my favorite part of the trip to the North Shore was that my husband came with me and he had a video camera going so we could capture some of the majesty of the big waves and the pristine beaches. I even drew a big heart in the sand at Sunset Beach and looked up at the camera and said something like, “Will love find you at Sunset Beach?”

It was a fun day and we thought we had a lot of great footage. But when we got home and played it back the wild Kona winds dominated every scene. None of the audio came through and in the end we decided none of the video was usable.

I do have some photos that came out and we were able to use those at the back of the book. I’ll add some of them here as well.

Would I visit there in the future? Absolutely. Anytime.

Amber: Oh, that's a bummer about the video! But it sounds like a wonderful time all the same. =) And the pictures are great!

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Robin: Love and humility do tend to go hand in hand, don’t they? I felt both of these while working on this book.

I’ll tell you about the love first. My husband and I spent our honeymoon on Oahu 34 years ago and that was the first time we visited the North Shore together. Returning to Sunset Beach with him to gather insights for this book made me realize how quickly the years have gone and what a gift it is to be able to journey through life with a man who loves God and loves me. We walked hand in hand on Sunset Beach and remembered all the tender ways that the Lord has provided for us and protected us all these years.

The humility part came for me in the rewrites on this book. I tried something new in that I wrote one chapter from Sierra’s point of view and the next chapter from Jordan’s point of view. It was fun at first but then it became more complicated as the story and the characters became more entwined. I had to learn as I was writing what worked and what didn’t work.

Being challenged as a writer is always a good thing. I’ve been doing this for over 25 years and I want to learn and grow as a storyteller. But I’ll tell you, rewriting many times over is a humbling thing no matter how many books you’ve had published.

Amber: Love your response!

What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Robin: In Hawaii we say, “Mele Kalikimaka!” and we celebrate the way most families and friends do. We set up Christmas trees, we gather at parties for lots of food and we worship together at church on Christmas Eve. Local tradition says that Santa arrives in an outrigger canoe wearing an Aloha shirt and bringing gifts wrapped in banana leaves.

Last year my husband and I sat outside eating papaya and cinnamon rolls for breakfast at seven o’clock on Christmas morning. One of our neighbors came around the corner with their two toddlers in a red wagon. The dad was wearing a Santa hat, T-shirt, shorts and flip flops. The kids were in their bathing suits and the mom was in a sleeveless shift with a big beach bag over her shoulder. They were singing Christmas carols and were heading down to the blue Pacific for Christmas breakfast on the beach. Now, that’s a little different than the way most people in the U.S. and Canada spend their Christmas morning.

At Sunset Beach the surfers head for the water on Christmas morning because winter is when the big waves roll in. A big Christmas feast would include fresh fish, kalua pork, rice, poi, lomi lomi, teriyaki chicken, chow fun noodles, haupia and of course, sweet potato pie.

One of my favorite parts of Christmas in Hawaii is all the white twinkle lights strung in the palm trees and the candle light service at the 160 year old church where the carols are sung in Hawaiian. It’s a sweet reminder that Jesus is the light of the world and His light reaches all the way to these remote islands tethered here in the middle of the deep blue sea.

Amber: Sounds simply lovely! Thank you so much for sharing with us today!

One final note from Robin: I’d love to connect with you! On Facebook my page is Robin Jones Gunn. On Twitter it’s simply RobinGunn. You are warmly welcome to visit my Online Shop at shop.robingunn.com where you’ll find copies of all 75 of my books, including “Love Finds You in Sunset Beach, Hawaii”. If you place a first-time order in the Shop, enter the code WELCOME at check out and you’ll receive a 20% discount on your entire order! Gotta’ love those coupons!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a gift package - Kona coffee and a signed copy of Love Finds You in Sunset Beach, Hawaii! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Robin along with your e-mail address.

• You must have a U.S. mailing address in order to be eligible for this drawing.

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011. (Please note the new announcement date! Winners will be announced Sunday afternoon or evening instead of Saturday morning.)
  

Love Finds You in the Simple Pleasures

Miralee is no stranger to Seasons of Humility - she was also a guest at the first "Love Finds You" blog party last year in 2010! Back then you readers got to ask Miralee your questions. (You can read that post HERE.) Today, I have a few questions of my own that Miralee has kindly answered! And keep reading to learn more about the giveaway, as well!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Miralee: Because the LFY books are set in real locations, it’s important the reader is able to visualize the setting, so I’d have to say, researching and depicting the setting. I love traveling to the places I write about (when possible) and helping the reader not only see the area in their mind, but get a glimpse into the past, as all mine are historical.

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book? If not, what most intrigues you about the place – and would you want to visit there in the future?

Miralee: I’ve gotten to visit three of the four locations for my books, but didn’t have a chance to with Sundance, WY. The book was contracted at the last minute, after they had an unexpected opening, and I had three weeks to finalize and turn in the contract, so no time to visit Sundance. I did do a lot of research about the area and the history, and would love to visit there someday—especially since anything Western fascinates me, and that was the hangout for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid!

Amber: I completely understand - anything Western fascinates me, too! Sundance sounds like an intriguing setting!

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Miralee: That’s actually a theme I try to weave into many of my books. My hero, Travis, had to learn a lesson about humility when he hired a ‘man’ as a varmint tracker/hunter and found out she was a woman. He made a snap judgment, as he was convinced a woman could never do a man’s job. Writing themes like this causes the author to often have to check their own heart, and I do find myself considering whether I judge people unfairly at times, and thinking about the acceptance and love we all have in Christ.

Amber: What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Miralee: It would be simple, as the people are all hard-working ranchers, store owners, etc., in an area and era where life was hard and ‘extras’ were few, but the emphasis would’ve been on family. There would have been a church service on Christmas eve at the church, with lots of singing, a peppermint stick for the children, and enough hugs and love to fill everyone’s heart. On Christmas morning simple, handmade gifts would appear under the tree (decorated with handmade items), and a meal would be shared, often with neighbors if they didn’t live too far away. Venison or possibly wild turkey or a slab of beef would be roasted, pies and cookies baked, along with vegetables that had been canned in the fall. Houses probably weren’t decorated, but family and faith were celebrated, with the focus on Jesus’ birth.

Amber: Sign me up - sounds like a sweet Christmas celebration! Thank you for helping us celebrate the holiday season and the LFY series today!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a signed copy of Love Finds You in Sundance, Wyoming! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Miralee along with your e-mail address.

• You must have a U.S. mailing address in order to be eligible for this drawing.

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011.

(Sundance pictures from the The City of Sundance, Wyoming website. Learn more about Miralee at her website!)

Love Finds You With a Spark of Independence

Roseanna White's Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland is lovely inside and out! The book explores the ramifications and meaning of independence, set not long after the American Revolution and U.S. independence from Britain. And, as part of the LFY series, you can bet on some sweet romance to go along with that spark of independence. ;) You can read my review of the book HERE.

Read on to learn more about the author and her book - followed by details on how you can get your hands on a copy!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Roseanna: While setting is always important to me, it takes on new importance in the LFY books. I’m a historical writer, so I have a lot of fun finding what sets a place apart, especially during the time period it’s most known for, and bringing that to life. And I love that within the confines of the Love Finds You vision we have a lot of freedom in determining how and why a story revolves around a place.

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book? If so, what was your favorite part of the trip?

Roseanna: I actually went to college in Annapolis, at St. John’s College, which was only a year away from being commissioned at the point of my story and was at the time King William’s School, where my hero and heroine’s brother attended, and where the heroine’s host is a teacher. =)

But though I lived in Annapolis for nearly 6 years, I never played tourist—instead I growled at the tourists who did crazy things like stop without warning in the middle of the sidewalk to take a picture. So naturally, when writing this book a friend and I had a blast playing tourist one Saturday and doing crazy things like stop in the middle of the sidewalk to take pictures. =) It was so much fun to see the town we knew so well through new eyes. And the most fun of all was when we started at the State House and plotted then followed the path Lark (my heroine) would have taken when she’s running away from Emerson (hero) at one particularly exciting part of the story.

Amber: I love that part!! Sounds like you had a blast. =)

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Roseanna: Oh my, this entire book was a big lesson in the Lord’s love for me and my own need for humility. I wrote it in a rush, praying every single time I sat down at my laptop that the Lord would somehow deliver the words I needed. When I finished and sent it to my editor for consideration, I had no idea if it was good enough. I’m usually pretty confident about my work, but with Annapolis I felt completely at a loss. Would this be the book the Lord used to open a door to a big publisher (my two previous novels are small press), or would it be one He used to show me something completely different?

Even after I got The Call, I still looked at this book and said, “Really, Lord? Seriously?? It’s happening???” LOL Every step of this path with Summerside has been a blessing, one that has shown me in funny, amazing ways that the Lord had this in mind all along, all those years I sat hoping and praying over other manuscripts. Do I understand why now, why this book? No—but I trust that it’s all part of His purpose, and amazed at His love for me—and how this manifestation of it didn’t come until I surrendered every last dream and ambition to Him.

Amber: Your trust and humility are inspiring - I think especially to those of us who are still waiting on God's plan and timing regarding our writing. =)

What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Roseanna: Oh, this is an especially fun question because I actually have Christmas in the story! =) Though New England at the time had strict rules about not celebrating Christmas, my characters would have belonged to the Church of England and would have enjoyed traditional English celebrations, all with a New World flavor.

One tradition of the day that most of us have only passing knowledge of is wassailing. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, the poor made up large batches of a milky drink called wassail (which isn’t known for being very tasty, LOL), which they would take around to the rich folk. The wealthy were pretty much obligated to buy this beverage, and did so with the idea that this was equivalent to alms without offending the pride of the less fortunate.

Also during this late Colonial/early Federal era, people often published in the newspaper when they were having parties, and total strangers would show up and expect a meal. Craziness! That came to an end right around the time of my story, LOL.

Decorations would consist of greenery and mistletoe, and the meals were a feast of local delicacies. In Annapolis, they would have enjoyed Maryland ham, a variety of seafood, treats that often featured sugar and fruit imported from the Caribbean . . .

Gifts would have been exchanged, and children especially would be unsurprised by what they received then. Toys, hair ribbons, books, new clothes . . . in Annapolis, my heroine Lark is away from home on Christmas and so very touched when a new friend gives her a leatherbound diary.

Amber: That was a great scene! Thank you for sharing all those tantalizing details, and thank you so much for being with us here today!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a copy of Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Roseanna along with your e-mail address.

• You must have a U.S. mailing address in order to be eligible for this drawing.

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011.
  

But wait - there's more!

Anyone who leaves a comment will also be entered into the Great ANNAPOLIS Giveaway, as well! (Check out the link to see what the prize is - it's fabulous!!) So what are you waiting for? Join in the fun! =)

(St. John's College photo from the school's website. Learn more about Roseanna at her website!)

The "Love Finds You" Blog Party is Here!!!

Welcome, one and all, to the 2nd annual "Love Finds You" blog party!! Today we're gathering around the virtual Christmas tree to start the festivities off right with the traditional pickle ornament hunt! But before we do, grab a mug of hot cocoa while I attend to a few formalities. =)

The "Love Finds You" Series

Let's begin with a quick re-cap (or introduction) to the "Love Finds You" series (published by Summerside Press). I'm going to share my explanation from last year's party:

Now, I realize that some of you may not be as familiar with this series as I am. The "Love Finds You" series is a collection of Christian romance stories set in various places (mainly in the United States) with unique town names and history. The stories range from historical to contemporary and are just as diverse as the towns themselves. The "Love Finds You" series is fun and inspirational, reminding readers that "Love Finds You" wherever God plans it to!

So here we are once again to celebrate this wonderful series and share some Christmas cheer! (If you'd like to read the great interviews from last year, click HERE and scroll down until you get to the 2010 posts.)

The Party Plan

If you haven't yet seen the party page, click HERE or click the button in the sidebar. There you'll find the party schedule and a list of this week's giveaways. As each post goes up, I'll include the links to them on that page, so if you ever feel lost with what's going on during the party, just head over there! Or feel free to leave a comment or e-mail me with any of your questions. =)

The Main Prize Package

As you'll see on the party page, there are going to be some great giveaways this week - starting with today's prize package!

You have the chance to win a $15 Amazon.com gift card and 2 copies (one for you and one for a friend) of Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland!

Here are the rules for this particular drawing (please read them carefully!) -

• You must leave a comment on this post saying which country you are from. If you are from the U.S. or Canada, you are eligible for all parts of this package. If you are from any other country, you are only eligible for the Amazon.com gift card (so if you win, another person will be chosen for the books). Hope that makes sense!

• You can gain 2 extra entries by taking the party button and putting it on your blog to help me spread the word. If you've already done so, no need to tell me again as I'll check back on the comments from the original post. However, you still must leave a comment here to be entered in the drawing!!

• You can gain extra extra entries by participating in today's activity, so read on!
  

The Great Pickle Hunt

If you're a long-time reader of this blog, hunting for pickle ornaments is nothing new for you! But for all our new visitors, here's an advertisement from The German Way that will tell you a little bit about the pickle-hunting tradition (click on the image to enlarge):

Basically a green pickle ornament is hidden among the branches of the Christmas tree, and the first to find it receives a gift. (My sister and I enjoy this tradition at Christmastime!) Today 5 pickle ornament images have been hidden in various places on this blog. Each pickle is worth 3 extra entries in today's drawing.

Here are the official rules:

• When you find a pickle image, just leave a comment saying where you found it (you can either describe the post/page or include the URL).

• You aren't limited to finding just one pickle image, so you can claim all 15 extra entries if you find all five pickles. However, if you want to be nice and not hog all the pickle claims, then I'm sure others will thank you. ;)

• I might be a little slow in checking in, but just know that once all five pickles are found, the game is over. (I'll eventually add the names of those who find the pickles to this post once the pickles have all been found.) If people are having a hard time finding the pickles, I might offer a hint or two later on.
  

• Also, please note: the pickle images from the rules post for last December's game and last July's game do NOT count. You will find them (as well as today's post) HERE, which is a link to the posts with the label "Pickle Ornament Tradition." Any other pickle images count, though! ;)

Finally, below is what the pickle image you're hunting for looks like. (But this is NOT one of the five I've hidden; this picture is just an example!)

*All 5 pickles have been found by Melanie, Bluerose, Casey, and Christy! Thank you to everyone who participated!*

In Conclusion...

I know this is a lot to take in! Please let me know if you have any questions, and remember that a lot of the information you need to know for this week is available on the party page. Have fun, and don't forget to come back tomorrow to meet Roseanna White and learn more about Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland!

My Review of Love Finds You in Annapolis

Here's a description of the book from Summerside Press:

"In 1784 peace has been declared, but war still rages in the heart of Lark Benton.

Never did Lark think she’d want to escape Emerson Fielding, the man she’s loved all her life, but then he betrays her with her cousin. She flees to Annapolis, Maryland, the country’s capital, and throws herself into a new circle of friends who force her to examine all she believes.

Emerson follows, determined to reclaim his bride. Surprised when she refuses to return with him, he realizes that in this new country he has come to call his own, duty is no longer enough. He must learn to open his heart and soul to something greater... before he loses all he should have been fighting to hold."

My Rating: Spring/Summer

My Review:

Lark is a young woman living in the newly independent United States who is tired of being stifled and ignored. So when the man she's long planned on marrying is found in a compromising situation, Lark finally flies away to test her own wings and find her own voice. When her fiancee eventually finds her again, will he see the treasure he took for granted and be given a second chance at loving Lark for who she really is?

As lovely and sophisticated as the cover, this story is a treat for lovers of historical romance! The pace is mostly gentle, and while not overly emotional, the plot is intellectually stimulating and quite sweet. The tension between Lark and Emerson make for some really engaging scenes as the story unfolds. The characters are charming, and White does a great job of taking a rather irritating man and making him into a sympathetic hero to cheer on in his daunting task of reclaiming his bride-to-be. And Wiley is just wonderful - all that a girl could ask for in an older brother. He has great hero potential for his own story!

Misunderstandings and a yearning for independence mark this well-constructed book, making Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland a meaningful and enjoyable read.

*With thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

Love Will Find You

At least in the pages of the "Love Finds You" book series!

This is a friendly reminder that Sunday (December 4th) marks the beginning of the "Love Finds You" blog party taking place right here at this very blog! There will be some really fun interviews and giveaways to get you in the Christmas spirit, so I do hope to see you there. And don't forget (if you haven't already!) to check out the party page to see the schedule and learn how to gain extra entries in the main prize package drawing!

While we're on this "Love Finds You" theme, there are new covers up on the Goodreads site for a couple of February 2012 LFY releases. Care to see them? They're quite lovely!


I'm eager to see what else is in store for this series in 2012! And I'm also quite eager to show you what's in store for next week! Soon, very soon... ;)

Coming Soon: 2nd Annual LFY Blog Party!

October is swiftly racing by, and soon November will be upon us. After that it will be December - time for Christmas preparations and, of course, the "Love Finds You" Blog Party! I'm very excited to be hosting this event again, as we had such a blast last year!

Did you miss last year's festivities? Or perhaps you'd like a chance to reminisce? Click HERE to read the party posts from December 2010 (be sure to scroll down)!

As of right now I have five wonderful guests lined up for this event, and there will be fun and prizes galore! Want to find out who two of the guests are? Take a look at the blog button I created for the party:

The background is a bit obscure, but if you look at the Summerside Press website I think you should be able to figure out who's book it is...and she's going to be one of our guests!

Now click on this blog button in the sidebar (not the one in the post). One of our guests' lovely covers is gracing the party page! (Note that the party page will be updated with more specific information in the coming weeks.)

Want to help spread the word? Just grab the button in the sidebar (using the code below the button) and share it on your own blog! If you leave a comment here letting me know that you've done this, you can have 2 extra entries in the main prize package drawing to be announced on December 4th!

Hope to see you there!

Review of Love Finds You in Prince Edward Island

Here's a description of the book from Summerside Press:

"In the summer of 1860, Prince Edward Island is astir. Its citizens eagerly anticipate the arrival of the first member of the British royal family to visit the island. Molly Orland is too poor to be invited to the ball, but she and several other local young women are thrilled when they’re hired as extra staff at the lieutenant governor’s house, where the young Prince of Wales will be a guest.

Peter Stark has arrived a few days in advance of the royal party to make sure arrangements are suitable for the prince. He is attracted to the beauty of the island—and to a young local girl named Molly, whom he’s determined to shield from the notorious antics of the playboy prince. When Peter and Molly discover a long-buried secret that could bring shame to his royal employer, will he remain a loyal servant—or help Molly’s family get the justice they deserve?"

My Rating: Fall/Spring

My Review:

As the lovely cover suggests, Love Finds You in Prince Edward Island, Canada is a charming book. While the story is set in the same beautiful place as Anne of Green Gables, it stands on its own, unique and sweet.

Like Cinderella, Molly is a young lady who wins the heart of the Prince and attends the ball despite her position as a maid in the lieutenant governor's household. But in an interesting twist, it's not the Prince who catches Molly's fancy--it's Peter Stark, attendant to an earl, with a complicated past.

The plot starts out slow, but the cute romance and the interesting details regarding the setting and the events for the Prince make this a quick read. While this book is not very deep, I enjoyed the fun summer trip to one place I really, really want to visit someday!

My Review of Love Finds You in Poetry, Texas

Here's a description of the book from Summerside Press:

"Belinda Bauer, in her ivory tower… In the quaint community of Poetry, Texas, Belinda spies an opportunity. The tiny town is filled with farmers and railroad men in need of wives, so she sets herself up at as a marriage broker. There’s only one problem: Belinda doesn’t have a clue what she’s doing, and all the brides who come to Poetry marry the wrong men! One client, who has lost more than one prospective wife to Belinda’s fumbled attempts, is particularly unhappy. Is there a poetic ending in store for him—and for Belinda herself?"

My Rating: Fall

My Review:

I'm sorry to say this book didn't quite read like pure poetry to me. Perhaps there are certain times in your life when you are more likely to be harsh on a book, and I fear this might be one of those times for me, so I apologize for any unnecessary judgments. This book is certainly lighthearted, but I confess it felt almost too much so as to be flippant in parts. I didn't actually finish the book--I read through nineteen chapters and then skimmed the rest. My heart just wasn't in it, and I felt the book was taking me too long to read.

However, I should note that the book is well-written and clever. I have heard good things about this author (Janice Hannah, AKA Janice Thompson), and I would enjoy the opportunity to read more by her. This particular book just didn't quite thrill me.

I thought it was interesting as I read along and caught on to the similarities between this story and Jane Austen's Emma: the matchmaker whose matches don't quite always work the way she plans, and who eventually realizes she's in love with her best friend. The matchmaking part was a bit bothersome--it felt (to me, personally) that the matches were more of a game to Belinda, and that the Lord was seen as more of a follow-up thought. I didn't feel ovely compelled to read more, as the final outcome was a bit predictable and the book felt sort of preachy and unrealistic. There were a lot of happily-ever-afters, but the tension seemed stretched out and I didn't feel like there was enough of a "journey" for me as the reader that would cause me to really rejoice with the characters in their happy endings.

As I said before, this book is well-written, and this author has talent. There were some cute parts I liked in the story, such as the poetic names of the local businesses and the quirkiness of some of the secondary characters. I also liked the analogy of life being like poetry--how God often shows us just one stanza of the poem at a time. But overall, I didn't feel like I quite fit in with the folks of Poetry, Texas.

My Review of Love Finds You in North Pole, Alaska

Here's a description of the book from Summerside Press:

"A former marine is no match for the spunky Sam Sinclair. Bryce Stone has returned to his hometown of North Pole, Alaska, and he’s not very happy about it. “The Town Where It’s Christmas All Year Long” does not appeal to the self-admitted scrooge. What’s worse, Bryce must postpone his dream of opening a furniture shop when his aunt Olive retires and leaves him to manage the family’s cluttered Christmas boutique. When Bryce underestimates Sam, the inexperienced young woman he hires to run the store, it becomes a battle of wills, and the two soon find that they’re fighting for more than just the shop."

My Rating: Spring/Summer

My Review:

Don't wait until next Christmas to pick up a copy of this sweet book--it's a holiday treat that should be enjoyed any time of the year! This book is like the charm bracelet from the movie The Santa Clause 2. The interesting date "Santa" finds himself with his first time around has a Christmas charm bracelet, which she say she wears "year round to keep the spirit alive." Well, this book is set in North Pole, Alaska, about which is said, "Where the Spirit of Christmas Lives Year Round." It's a wonderful place to visit through the pages of a book!

I love how creative this book is! The characters are unique, from the former Marine who hates the commercialism of Christmas (and yet has to run a Christmas shop!), to the upbeat and spunky Samantha (who has a culinary degree and yet ends up managing said Christmas shop!). The story kept me turning those pages, and while it was a really fun read, it also included some sadder and deeper moments. The ending came together a little abruptly for me, but once I finished the epilogue I was quite satisfied.

With great Alaskan and Christmas imagery, great characters, and great lessons on love, patience, and understanding, this book is delightful!

P.S. I just had to let you know that Summerside Press has information and cover images up for their new and upcoming "Love Finds You" books (for early to mid 2011) available on their website now! Click HERE to go and check out the latest--and then feel free to come back here and leave a comment on which one you're looking forward to the most! For me, I can't wait for Love Finds You in Prince Edward Island, Canada, but really, they all look so good!

My Review of Love Finds You Under the Mistletoe

Here's a description of the two-in-one book from Summerside Press:

"Irene Brand

Love Finds You under the Mistletoe: An Appalachian Christmas

A promise to her dying sister compels Julia Mayfield to take her young nephew to Mistletoe, Kentucky, a tiny town tucked away in the Appalachian Mountains. Sparks fly when she meets David Armstrong, a World War II veteran like herself. Even as shadows from the past weave a dangerous web around Julia and David, will their love flourish like the mistletoe that blankets the nearby hills?

Anita Higman

Love Finds You under the Mistletoe: Once Upon a Christmas Eve

Hollie Goodnight’s store has just been voted best Christmas shop in America. All the new publicity draws flamboyant novelist Van Keaton to the cozy town of Noel, Missouri, demanding to write Hollie’s story—a dramatic tale of misfortune and triumph. She is swept up in his world of beautiful words and fanciful interludes…until Owen Quigly, her lifelong best friend, launches a plan to win her back."

My Rating: Spring

My Review:

This is a sweet book for the Christmas season, or anytime of the year! The first story by Irene Brand, "An Appalachian Christmas," is a cute story that transports the reader to Mistletoe, Kentucky. It's perhaps a bit syrupy sweet at times, in that it has rather traditional romantic elements that aren't too surprising, but it's still a fun trip. I confess that I had moments when I was rather frustrated with Julia, the main character, and I don't know if the tension/conflict throughout the story was overly compelling for me as the reader. However, what I really liked about the story was getting to visit Mistletoe and spend some time in the mountains with the characters. There are some great secondary characters, like Granny and Bobby!

The second story by Anita Higman, "Once Upon a Christmas Eve," is really fun! The plot and setting is rather unique, and the characters even more so. Holly and the two men vying for her attention, Van Keaton and Owen Quigley, are both quirky and charming. I was intrigued while reading this story, and I liked that it was a romantic story with almost outrageous elements that didn't compromise on authentic emotions.

Overall, I really enjoyed these two stories. In case you haven't seen this cover in person for yourself, let me assure you that it is quite lovely. It has a sort of silvery shine to it, which I love! And between the covers are two stories that shine with Christmas cheer and love.

My Review of Love Finds You in Sugarcreek, Ohio

Here's a description of the book from Summerside Press:

"A mysterious outsider casts a long shadow on Ohio’s Amish country. Policewoman Rachel Troyer has always looked after her three elderly Amish aunts, proprietors of a farmhouse inn near Sugarcreek, Ohio. The idyllic town is popular with tourists, who come to sample its famous Amish goods. But one thing is clear to Rachel—Joe Matthews is no tourist. When the bearded stranger lands on her aunts’ doorstep, begging shelter for himself and his young son, Rachel is suspicious. Will she be able to uncover Joe’s secrets despite her aunts’—and her own—growing affection for him?"
Just like the cover, this book presents both light and dark: from the sweetness of three older Amish women, a father desperately trying to protect and care for his son, and a woman determined to seek the truth; to the fear of running away from the pa...more
My Rating: Spring/Summer

My Review:

Just like the cover, this book presents both light and dark: from the sweetness of three older Amish women, a father desperately trying to protect and care for his son, and a woman determined to seek the truth; to the fear of running away from the past, a murder, an undiscovered killer, and a world pressing in on all that is innocent. While this book starts out rather gently, setting the scene with a vague sense of mystery, the second half follows at a faster pace with a lot of intrigue and drama. It was quite a different sort of story, in a good way!

There was a lot going on in this novel, and plenty of characters to fall in love with (and some to be very wary of!). The three Amish aunts are so dear and kind, and their unconditional acceptance of a stranger and his young boy is touching. Their niece's desire to protect them at all costs is also very touching. And did I mention that this niece happens to be a policewoman with an overwhelming need to solve mysteries? Cue a mysterious, handsome man on the run (with his son), and you've got the ticket to an unusual and exciting love story!

This book is very unique, with authentic, intriguing characters and an interesting plot. I love how the story all tied together, and the epilogue was great...with a cute little twist. I enjoyed my "visit" to Sugarcreek, and I recommend taking a trip to the Sugar Haus Inn through the pages of this book!

Fall Friday

Well, it is Friday and it is still fall, so it makes sense to have another "Fall Friday" post today. As far as having something brilliant to say on the subject, though, I might be found a bit lacking. ;)

Reading is a great past time. And reading and fall somehow go hand-in-hand, right? I mean, it's delightful to think about colorful fall leaves, the last remnants of warmth before winter, and enjoying it all while reading an engaging book, right?

Right.

So, today I'm going to talk about books. Due to my interest in the "Love Finds You" book series recently (click HERE to see the main reason why), I found myself browsing Christianbook.com to see if the upcoming "Love Finds You" books were listed with their covers. And guess what I found? Beautiful, fabulous covers! Want to see?


These are just a couple of examples of the "Love Finds You" books coming out next year (April 2011 for these two). Aren't they lovely? I absolutely adore the Prince Edward Island cover--it reminds me of Anne of Green Gables and is so beautifully done!

Just thought I would get you all to share in my excitement. ;) What are you reading right now? I'm reading Within My Heart by Tamera Alexander, and soon I hope to be reading Hatteras Girl by Alice Wisler and maybe Nightingale by Susan May Warren (if it comes in the mail soon!).

*blissful sigh*

I love books!

"Love Finds You" Blog Party Announcement

Now, before you get too excited, this party is still about a month away. However, I wanted to draw your attention to the new page I put up (at the bottom of the "Pages" list in the sidebar), which will give you all the fun details of this week-long celebration!

I do hope you all will be able to attend, because there are going to be some great guests and some fabulous giveaways!!!

And to see what inspired this party, be sure to check out my interview during Casey's blogoversary for her blog Writing for Christ (see the button in the sidebar). Lots of fun going on in the blogging world!

LitFuse Publicity Blog Tour: Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington

Here's a description of the book: "The war has stolen Rosalie’s fiancé, Vic, from her forever. But rather than wallow, Rosalie distracts herself by cramming her days full of activity—mainly by shooting rivets into the B-17 bombers that will destroy the enemy.

When a reporter dubs her 'Seattle's Own Rosie the Riveter,' even more responsibility piles up. Her strong arms bear all this, but when intense feelings surface for Kenny, the handsome, kind-hearted, and spiritually unwavering reporter, the fear of losing another love propels Rosalie to leave.

It’s only when Rosalie realizes that God has brought her to this place—and this person—for a reason, the sparkling grace of God compels her to let go of her own strength and lean on His, as well as open her heart to love."

My Rating: Spring

My Review:

I loved how this book transported me back to the World War II era! There were various historical details, from the setting to the characters’ dress and speech, which added to my enjoyment of the book. I certainly had fun traveling back in time!

That being said, though, I found that the story took me longer to read than I would have liked. Some emotions and situations seemed to be stretched out more than was necessary. And while I think I need to remember that we all tend to create more drama in our lives than we need to, I just felt that the maturity I desired for the main characters was not completely there.

Some lines thrilled me with their depth of insight and their poetic nature. For example, on page 251 there’s a line that reads, “The sky’s smeared shades, nearly matching the cotton candy’s pink hue, now drizzled away into a deep navy. Only the horizon still whispered with the muted light of the earlier colorfest.” I love beautiful sentences like that! However, there were also word choices that didn’t impress me, such as the constant use of the word “doll” by Kenny. While words like that are quite cute, I was a bit annoyed that he used it so often.

All in all, I really did like this book. I remember that the prologue especially drew me in, and I kind of wished that the feelings it elicited would have been maintained throughout the whole story. But I know that because of the plot, different relationships had to be formed, which brought along all new emotions. And it was quite a journey! I think the ending revealed a lot of important truths, and I was left satisfied with the conclusion.

*With thanks to the publisher for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion, to be shared during the LitFuse Publicity Blogging tour.*

About the Authors:

Tricia Goyer: Tricia Goyer is the author of twenty-four books including Songbird Under a German Moon, The Swiss Courier, and the mommy memoir, Blue Like Play Dough. She won Historical Novel of the Year in 2005 and 2006 from ACFW, and was honored with the Writer of the Year award from Mt. Hermon Writer's Conference in 2003. Tricia's book Life Interrupted was a finalist for the Gold Medallion in 2005. In addition to her novels, Tricia writes non-fiction books and magazine articles for publications like MomSense and Thriving Family. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences, and has been a workshop presenter at the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International Conventions. She and her family make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas where they are part of the ministry of FamilyLife. For more on Tricia click HERE.

Ocieanna Fleiss: Ocieanna Fleiss is a published writer and has edited six of Tricia Goyer’s historical novels. She lives with her husband and their four children in the Seattle area. For more about Ocieanna click HERE.

To Buy the Book: click HERE

Contest Information: Tricia is giving away 5 Victory Prize packs during this blog tour! Check the contest out HERE!

Blog Tour Schedule: Check out all of the other reviews scheduled by clicking HERE.

True Love Tuesday

Based on the poll I had going the last few days, I think you can guess what today's topic is: the "Love Finds You" series!

There's so much to love about the "Love Finds You" books! Not only do they take us to various locations across the United States, to places with great and memorable names, but they also take us through various periods of time, from the Old West to World War II to modern day. And the overall message of the series title is a lovely reminder: "Love Finds You" anywhere!

God's love is not limited by either time or space (or anything else, for that matter!). Our love for each other should be unlimited, as well. If we truly love someone else, we'll love them no matter how far away they are and no matter how much time goes by, because love "beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things" (1 Corinthians 13:7).

Of all the "Love Finds You" books I've read, I think my two favorites so far are Love Finds You in Hershey, Pennsylvania and Love Finds You in Lahaina, Hawaii.

Love Finds You in Hershey, Pennsylvania reminds us that true love forgives and doesn't give up on the other person. Yes, we hurt each other. We all mess up; we all sin. But just as God forgives us, so we must forgive each other. That's a wonderful lesson to learn, and one I need to remember to take to heart!

To read my review of this great book, click HERE.

Love Finds You in Lahaina, Hawaii reminds us (at least through the contemporary strand) that true love sees the person for who they really are. Love should look at who the person is in their soul; love should not focus primarily on the outward appearances. First Samuel 16: 7 says, "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." And that's what we should strive to do, as well. Again, it's easier said than done, but we should always try our best, through God's grace, to love as He loves.

To read my review of this enthralling book, click HERE. (Because there are two strands--contemporary and historical--in this story, there's lots to take from it, so I just picked one idea!)

I'm excited because I have two more "Love Finds You" books already in my TBR stack! I'm planning on starting Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington next. I love these stories, and I'm curious: which "Love Finds You" books are your favorites so far? What have you learned about true love from them?

Oh, and I'll share the poll results with you! The question was: "Which state would you like to see as the next setting for a 'Love Finds You' book?" The results were as follows:

• Arizona (0--0%)
• Louisiana (2--40%)
• Maine (1--1%)
• New York (1--20%)
• Wyoming (0--0%)
• Other (1--20%)

I guess we have so many of those wonderful Wild Wests settings that we are curious to hear more about those Southern and Eastern states! ;) Louisiana won, and I have to say that I wouldn't mind a "Love Finds You" book with some Cajun flavor!

If the person who voted "Other" is willing, I'm interested to see what other state you had in mind!

Can't wait to hear your thoughts on true love and the "Love Finds You" series!