Book Review: If the Magic Fits by Susan Maupin Schmid

If the Magic Fits, by Susan Maupin Schmid
2016, 304p, Middle-Grade Fantasy
My Rating=4 Stars
Source: I received an ARC from the publisher, which did not affect my review in any way



Inside an enchanted castle, there’s a closet—a closet with one hundred dresses that nobody ever wears. Dresses like those need a good trying-on, and Darling Dimple is just the girl to do it. When she tries on Dress Number Eleven, something unbelievable happens. She transforms into the castle’s Head Scrubber! It turns out that each dress can disguise her as someone else. And Darling is about to have an adventure that calls for a disguise or two…or a hundred.

This is a book I knew I had to read with my daughter. Due to that, it took me a little longer to get through it, but we both enjoyed it! Darling Dimple is an orphan who was raised as a servant in the under-cellar of a castle. No matter how much she tries to please her superiors, she seems to fall short. One day, Cherice, the Wardrobe Mistress, comes to Marci, the Supreme Scrubstress, to look for a dependable girl to assist in pressing the Princess's things. When Marci learns that this is a position in which the girl will be watched like a hawk, she quickly gives it to Darling. And that's where her adventure begins.

Darling's promotion took her out of her element, which made her new role entertaining for the reader. It was interesting to see the interactions between all the servants and how their hierarchy worked. Darling also interacted with Princess Mariposa, who she liked immediately. She soon discovered the magic in the castle involving a closet full of 100 dresses and what happened when she tried them on.

This is a fun story that isn't too complex. There were some things I wish had been explained better, but a middle-grade reader won't think twice about. This is a book that young readers will enjoy, with pretty dresses, butterflies, friendship, betrayal, royalty, magic, dragons, mystery, adventure, and a charming orphan girl that is easy to fall in love with! We're looking forward to reading more!

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

Susan Maupin Schmid is the author of the 100 Dresses series. She enjoys good books, good coffee, and beautiful dresses. She has a secret vice: sewing excessively elaborate doll clothes.

Website * Twitter 

Cover Reveal: Melancholy Ghost by Kat Mayor

Today is the cover reveal for Melancholy Ghost by Kat Mayor. This cover reveal is organized by Lola's Blog Tours.

Melancholy Ghost (Spirit Chasers #2)
By Kat Mayor
Genre: Paranormal
Age category: Adult
Release Date: 14 February, 2017

Blurb:

From ghost hunter to ghost, haunted.

Barrett has a plan—help Austin regain his memory, surround him with his friends and loved ones, and lead him into the light. Unfortunately, the tragic investigation of a melancholy ghost derails everything.

As new lead investigator, Thai struggles to maintain the high ratings SCI has always enjoyed. After a few subpar investigations, the network execs demand results, even if it means the team must put their lives on the line for a house more deadly than its dead occupants.

There are worse things than being dead.

Austin knows something is wrong. Most people ignore him, time eludes him, and his hands are basically worthless. If only he could remember what happened, he would have the answers he so desperately seeks. He’s sick of Barrett’s lies and Casey’s deflections. Austin will have to figure this one out on his own. Will the truth set him free, or destroy his soul?

You can find Melancholy Ghost on Goodreads

Excerpt:

While the others were in the back storeroom, Bob and Luis investigated the front of the store. Bob’s spirit guides led them over to an old Victrola. An apparition in a three-piece suit materialized in front of them. Bob couldn’t see the solid forms of ghosts the way Casey and Barrett did. He saw them as clear beings with bright edges. But if a spirit was strong and determined, it could convey its thoughts and words to Bob. You, sir. Might I have a word?

“Certainly.”

Professor Charles Bowen. The translucent apparition held out his hand in introduction.

Bob made the motion of shaking his hand. “Pleased to meet you, Professor. How can I be of assistance?”

The professor pointed with his translucent pipe. On the floor were shards of broken teacups and saucers. That was Lady Jane Carraway’s collection of fine, English bone china. It was then that Bob noticed the silhouette of a feminine spirit. Her clear being was outlined in a Victorian era tie-back blouse and skirt. She stood behind and to the side of the professor, clutching a lace handkerchief and weeping soundlessly. A mute spirit, Bob realized. Somehow her silent sobs were more sorrowful than if she had been wailing loudly. The professor pushed his wire-rimmed glasses up higher on his nose. Now what is to be done about them?

“Them?”

Those hoodlums. It’s one thing to endure their practical jokes. But Lady Jane is a kind soul. She didn’t deserve this.

He’s sweet on her, a young male spirit taunted. Then he made smooching noises. A couple of other spirits with him began to laugh. They blurred into one as they floated off down another aisle.

Alas, I did not know Lady Jane when we were alive. He patted her arm. I wish I had. His eyes narrowed at Bob and Luis. You must make them leave. They are turning this fine establishment into a rowdy, ill-managed ale house.

“We’ll do our best, Professor.”

One more thing.

Bob turned to face him. The ginger boy is the ring leader. If you cross him over, they’ll all follow.


About the Author:

I am a native Texan, wife, and mom. In addition to The Spirit Chaser, I have written a young adult series, The Circle. I’m a full-time reader, part-time writer, and when I’m not kicking a story around in my head, I love to read and review books on Goodreads.

You can find and contact Kat Mayor here:

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

Blog Tour/Review: Bible Origami by Todd Huisken

Bible Origami, by Todd Huisken
2016, 96p, Christian Non-Fiction
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not affect my review in any way



Keep your children’s hands busy during church services with Bible Origami. Instead of folding the service programs into paper airplanes, they can fold Noah’s ark, an oil lamp, or Joseph’s coat! As you develop the unique skill of creating these simple-to-intermediate origami designs, you will find opportunities to use them with all ages for lessons, activities, crafting, and everyday fun!

This is the author's third origami book and I enjoyed this one as much as his other two! There are three skill levels, 1 being the easiest and 3 being the most challenging. Admittedly, I am not very good at origami and attempted some level 2 designs, but I do the best with the level 1 designs. There's an index at the back which lists the designs by skill level which is helpful. There are descriptions and pictures of the different folds in the front which is handy when you get stuck.

This is a fun way to entertain children and enhance scripture stories, whether you teach a class or want a quiet activity at home. There's something cool to make for every skill level and each page contains an interesting fact about that particular design. It's a fabulous resource for all ages!

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Books & Things

Todd Huisken is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the counseling manager at LDS Family Services in Fountain Valley, California. He attended Brigham Young University and the University of San Diego and has a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. Todd has served as the assistant director of Disaster Mental Health Services for the Orange County Chapter of the American Red Cross. He has worked with victims from the San Diego fires, Hurricanes Ivan and Katrina, and spent two weeks in Haiti after the devastating earthquake in 2010. He was an early morning seminary teacher for six years. He is the author of The Dating Directory and the founder of Process and Content, a graduate program newsletter at the University of San Diego. Todd has been married to his beautiful wife for twenty-one years and they have three daughters and a son.

Website * Facebook * Twitter

Tour Schedule:

December 10: Chicken Scratch N Sniff
December 11: A.L. Sowards
December 12: Fearlessly Creative Mammas
December 13: Singing Librarian Books || Shelli Proffitt Howells
December 14: My Book a Day || Strong Armor || Ramblings of a Christian Mom
December 15: A Lively Hope || Funky Polkadot Giraffe
December 16: Heidi Reads || The Things I Love Most
December 17: Inklings and Notions || Carrine Judy
December 18: Rockin’ Book Reviews
December 19: Share, Love, Serve
December 20: Literary Time Out || Marie Leslie
December 21: Storeybook Reviews
December 22: Eccentric Eclectic Woman
December 23: Positivity Army || Brittany Shannon
December 26: Wishful Endings
December 27: Reidhead Random-ness || My Little Sunshines
December 28: Mel’s Shelves
December 29: Sweetly Made
December 30: Side by Side Learning
December 31: Fashion and Fiction

Freebie: Prejudice Meets Pride by Racahel Anderson

Don't miss this fabulous freebie! 

Grab your copy of Prejudice Meets Pride by Rachael Anderson today!!

Prejudice Meets Pride by Rachael Anderson
After years of pinching pennies and struggling to get through art school, Emma Makie’s hard work finally pays off with the offer of a dream job. But when tragedy strikes, she has no choice but to make a cross-country move to Colorado Springs to take temporary custody of her two nieces. She has no money, no job prospects, and no idea how to be a mother to two little girls, but she isn’t about to let that stop her. Nor is she about to accept the help of Kevin Grantham, her handsome neighbor, who seems to think she’s incapable of doing anything on her own.

Prejudice Meets Pride is the story of a guy who thinks he has it all figured out and a girl who isn't afraid to show him that he doesn't. It’s about learning what it means to trust, figuring out how to give and to take, and realizing that not everyone gets to pick the person they fall in love with. Sometimes, love picks them.

2017 Calendar Now Available: Gerbil Meets Mouse Publishing

The official 2017 Gerbil Calendar by Gerbil Meets Mouse Publishing is now available!

Mocha, Petri and Melvin are back for another year of your favorite full-colour photographs. Play with Petri in his new sandbox, visit Melvin at his Tiki bar or go back to school with Mocha as your teacher. One thing is for sure, these gerbils love the camera! The perfect gift for the animal-lover in your life.

Order yours here!

This week only, purchase your very own 2017 Gerbil Calendar for only $15CAD including FREE SHIPPING to Canada and USA.

DVD Review: The Last Descent

The Last Descent, DVD, 2016
PG, 105 minutes
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: I received a complimentary copy, which did not affect my review in any way

The details of the passing of John Jones in Nutty Putty Cave have been well documented, but his story did not end there. Witness the power of love and family in this critically acclaimed film that shows that family bonds extend beyond this life.

I knew going in to this that it would be emotional since it documents the final hours of John Jones' life in the Nutty Putty Cave. He gets caught in a hole in the cave very early on and we get flashbacks of his life as a rescue worker stays with him until they can pull him out.

This movie is well done! There are a few intense scenes when John gets stuck and then when the rescuers attempt to pull him out. He reflects on his life and expresses his regrets as well as the things that have brought him great joy. His relationship with his wife, Emily, was what he focused on the most, and it was interesting to hear their story. Most of his conversations happen with a rescue worker named Aaron, who takes a deep interest in John and is determined to get him out alive. I enjoyed all the actors and thought they did a great job portraying the different characters and bringing this story to life.

The bottom line on this movie is that, yes, it's hard to watch at times due to John's suffering, but there are happy parts as well. It contains a powerful message which will stick with me for a long time!

Amazon * Deseret Book * Website

Book Review: Jack Templar and the Last Battle by Jeff Gunhus

Jack Templar and the Last Battle, by Jeff Gunhus
2016, 228p, Middle-Grade Fantasy
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: I received a complimentary copy via eBooks for Review, which did not affect my review in any way



Jack Templar faces his greatest challenge yet...

In the sixth and last book of the Jack Templar series, Jack and his friends race to stop Ren Lucre before he launches this Creach army against humankind. But the Lord of the Lesser Creach and the Lord of the Zombies hold the last two Jerusalem Stones Jack needs to have any chance of success. To make matters worse, the Oracle predicts that one of their group will die in the upcoming fight, and Jack discovers betrayal among those he trusts most.

Even so, Jack must find the courage to lead his friends into battle. Either they collect the Stones in time to defeat Ren Lucre or die trying. It’s "Do your duty, come what may" no matter the cost. The fate of the world hangs in the balance.

This is the sixth and final book in this series and was my favorite one! Bits and pieces of Jack's story were revealed throughout the other books and this is where we get the final pieces and understand what his quest has been about.

Jack and his friends have their toughest challenge yet--to obtain the remaining two Jerusalem Stones and then attempt to defeat Ren Lucre in battle. It seems impossible to accomplish and they will need help in order to be successful. I loved how this story unfolded! Jack and his friends have a strong bond and stay loyal to each other, even when they're not sure how that will affect the outcome of their battle.

The series takes place within one year and what an action packed, adventurous year it has been! I would highly recommend reading it from the beginning so you can get to know the characters and their interactions with each other, as well as the complete story. I'm always sad when a series I have loved comes to an end. I enjoy this author's writing style and look forward to reading more of his books in the future!

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

Author Jeff Gunhus

Jeff Gunhus is the USA TODAY bestselling author of thriller and horror novels for adults and the middle grade/YA series, The Templar Chronicles. The first book, Jack Templar Monster Hunter, was written in an effort to get his reluctant reader eleven-year-old son excited about reading. It worked and a new series was born. His books for adults have reached the Top 30 on Amazon, have been recognized as Foreword Reviews Book of the Year Finalists and reached the USA TODAY bestseller list.

After his experience with his son, he is passionate about helping parents reach young reluctant readers and is active in child literacy issues. As a father of five, he leads an active life in Maryland with his wife Nicole by trying to constantly keep up with their kids. In rare moments of quiet, he can be found in the back of the City Dock Cafe in Annapolis working on his next novel or on JeffGunhus.com.

Website * Twitter * Facebook

Read my reviews on the other books in this series here:

Jack Templar Monster Hunter (Book 1)

Jack Templar and the Monster Hunter Academy (Book 2)

Jack Templar and the Lord of the Vampires (Book 3) 

Jack Templar and the Lord of the Werewolves (Book 4)
Jack Templar and the Lord of the Demons (Book 5) 

Book Review: To Move the World by Regina Sirois

To Move the World, by Regina Sirois
2016, 284p, Clean Historical Romance
My Rating=4.5 Stars
Source: I received a complimentary copy via eBooks for Review, which did not affect my review in any way



Eve Brannon never had to bother planning out her future. In the Yorkshire dales where life is harder, it is also simpler. Next in line to inherit her family's farm, she will raise another generation of children and sheep high in the uplands of England. Waiting until next year when she is 19 to marry her father's handsome hired hand, Alan, is the detail she added herself.

But in 1939 even the most stalwart corners of the world are vibrating with the tremors of change. Eve's long-anticipated proposal comes on the wings of losing Alan to the Royal Army and at the brink of the farm's profitable war years the sheep herd is decimated by a mysterious illness. With her steady future suddenly in the clutches of a capricious fate, Eve is introduced to Jonathon Doran, a land manager anxious to prove himself in a crisis, and she discovers that the solid earth beneath her feet is moving after all.

This story takes place in England in 1939. Eve lives on a sheep farm with her father and brother and is in love with her father's hired hand, Alan. She plans to marry him but questions that decision when she meets Jonathon Doran, a wealthy land owner who is twelve years older than her. When Alan heads off to war, there's a major crisis on the farm which prompts her to call Jonathon for help.

This story is told in journal format. Eve has recently received a typewriter and shares her thoughts and feelings about what is happening. There's some humor as she tries to figure out her feelings between Alan and Jonathon. She has a best friend named Theo who was a fun character to get to know, along with her love interest. I enjoyed all of the characters and was surprised to find my opinion of a few of them to be different by the end of the book.

My only complaint is that it's part of the Matchmaker series and Pearl wasn't really involved. She played a small role (only appearing twice towards the end) and I didn't feel that she guided Eve one way or the other. The romance is light and, since Eve's young, there's more of a coming-of-age feel to this story, which I enjoyed. This is the second book I've read by this author and I really enjoy her writing style. I look forward to reading more from her in the future!

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

Regina Sirois is 90% reader and 10% writer, and as such, her loyalty lies with readers. She believes a book should do more than mildly entertain- it should change us. She graduated summa cum laude from Missouri State's Department of History and English and settled in the golden wheat fields of Kansas with her High School love. She is currently doing laundry (probably) and raising her two daughters. She fell in love the day she learned to read and cried the first time she did a word problem in math ("But it's not a problem..." sob, sob. "It's a story!"). In her debut novel, "On Little Wings," Regina Sirois holds nothing back as she dares to make us believe.

Website  * Facebook * Twitter

DVD Review: Christmas Dress

Christmas Dress
2016, 27 minutes
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: I received a link to view the movie. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

It’s Christmas Eve, and Leland Jeppson’s hope is gone. Struggling to get by in their rustic homestead, he had at least wanted to give his family a special Christmas. But with a blizzard blowing in and the train bearing their gifts nowhere in sight, it seems Christmas is just one more thing they’ll have to do without. But as dusk falls, the Jeppsons’ packages unexpectedly arrive at the post office in the not-so-nearby town. Half-blind Postman George Schow is hesitant to brave the storm, but his son, Sidney, will stop at nothing to bring Christmas to the Jeppsons—and ask their daughter, Ellen, to the New Year’s Eve dance. Now it’s up to father and son to battle fierce elements in an attempt to deliver a Christmas miracle. Don’t miss this heartwarming reminder that while God helps those who help themselves, sometimes He does so through others.

I read A Christmas Dress for Ellen, the book that this movie is based on, every year with my children and I cry through most of it every single time. It's Christmas Eve 1927 in Canada and times are tough for the Jeppson family. They are hoping for some Christmas packages from Mary's family who live in Idaho, but they don't come. Mary is a sweet woman who is concerned and disappointed, but hopeful and faithful while dealing with her young children. Leland is discouraged as the provider and not having much for his family, yet he also shows his faith and love for his family.

The Jeppsons' packages arrive late that evening. Sidney Schow, the son of the postman, George, encourages his father to deliver the packages that night. There's a blizzard and they are warm and safe at home, so George is understandably hesitant at first, but ultimately decides to go. There are challenges along the way and George demonstrates his faith as well.

I loved watching this story come to life! I felt for the Jeppson family as they were struggling to make ends meet. Their oldest daughter, Ellen, was upset with the upbeat way her mother was handling the situation, and wanted a reality check. George came across as a bit grumpy at first and it was heartwarming to see the change in him. The casting was perfect and I loved every minute of it! And yes, I cried while watching it. It's an amazing story which we will continue to read every year, and now we will watch it as well!

Amazon * Deseret Book

Christmas Dress Trailer from Ron Brough on Vimeo

Blog Tour/Review: Fablehaven: Book of Imagination by Brandon Mull

Fablehaven: Book of Imagination, by Brandon Mull
2016, 160p, Activity Book
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not affect my review in any way



Fablehaven has sold more than 3.5 million copies and readers made The Caretaker's Guide to Fablehaven, the first visual discovery and definitive guide to all the mythical creatures of Brandon Mull's wildly brilliant imagination, a bestseller in Fall 15. Now it's the READER'S turn to tap into your imagination in the very first interactive guide to Fablehaven!

Tuck this journal into your backpack, tote it along and use it as a fun activity book for all things Fablehaven and to reflect on the mythical creature metaphors found in the series.
Examples:
If you owned your own invisibility glove like Seth, how would you use it today?
Learn how to draw a dragon’s head with step-by-step instructions.
You have found the legendary Totem Wall. Choose a face to speak with. What question would you ask?
Within the pages of this book are secret codes what will help the reader discover a secret message from Brandon Mull about Dragonwatch, the sequel to Fablehaven.
Dragons can create paralyzing fear. Imagine your hands and arms were literally paralyzed from encountering a dragon, but you still needed to write a message. Use your feet or mouth to write a note on the page.
Create your own art: draw your own magical preserve. Include your home, landmarks, trees, trails, areas to avoid. Where is it located? What is it called?
Draw your family pet as if it were a guardian to a hidden, ancient artifact. What special power does your pet have to protect the treasure it is guarding?
Fans will also find coloring book pages, mazes, scavenger hunts, and instructions for origami creatues of Fablehaven characters like Raxtus!

I read the Fablehaven series with my children several years ago and we all loved it! This is a fun activity book that goes along with the series, which I wish had been available back then. My daughter and I have had fun doing some of the activities. There's a wide variety so there's something for everyone. There are recipes, crafts, games, coloring pages, quotes and much more! Going through it made us want to read through the series again so I would highly recommend this to anyone reading the series for the first time. It also got us excited for the sequel, Dragonwatch!

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

Watch the author's daughter, Sadie Mull, demonstrate how to make Wizard's Slime:

Here's the origami Raxtus demonstration:

And here's the author discussing his new series, Dragonwatch!

Brandon Mull resides in a happy little valley near the mouth of a canyon with his wife and three children. He spent two years living in the Atacama Desert of Northern Chile where he learned Spanish and juggling. He once won a pudding eating contest in the park behind his grandma’s house, earning a gold medal. Brandon is the author of the New York Times bestselling Fablehaven series and The Candy Shop War.

Website * Facebook * Twitter

Cover Reveal: Condemn Me Not by Heather B. Moore

I am excited to announce the 

cover reveal of 

USA Today Bestselling Author 

Heather B. Moore's 

CONDEMN ME NOT.

CONDEMN ME NOT releases 

March 14th, 2017!

Preorder links ebook / paperback

Here it is!

Blog Tour/Review: Christmas Greetings from the Presidents (Compilation)

Christmas Greetings from the Presidents (Compilation)
2016, 96p, Christmas/Non-Fiction
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not affect my review in any way



Christmas Greetings from the Presidents takes a comforting, nostalgic look back in time to when Americans viewed the annual Christmas message to the nation as the embodiment of a national spirit of unity and goodwill through both the best of times and the darkest days of national trials. The book, the first of its kind by a national publisher, chronicles presidential Christmas messages from the inception of this tradition in 1927 with Calvin Coolidge to President Obama. It provides the historical context of the era, rarely-seen archival photographs that offer us a window into the history unfolding at the time, and a sidebar “Did you Know” feature with trivia that often shines a new light on the personality of the president as he responds to unplanned Christmas-time events.

In 1927, Calvin Coolidge offered the first official presidential Christmas greeting to the country. His message was short but powerful: "Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. If we think on these things there will be born in us a Savior and over us all will shine a star--sending its gleam of hope to the world." That set the tone of the book for me and I was interested in what the other presidents had to say.

I like how there is historical background given to remind us of what was happening in the country during the time of each president and how his message would relate to that. Some of the messages apply no matter when they were given. I also loved President Reagan's message. His was one of the longer ones. He spoke about the spirit of solidarity and referred specifically to the struggles Poland was going through at that time. I was young when this happened and don't remember it so I found it interesting to read about.

This is the perfect book to keep on display during Christmas. It's high quality and easy to pick up and read a little bit at a time or just flip through to look at the wonderful illustrations. It's a great reminder that no matter how different we are, Christmas is a time to come together in love, faith, reflection and charity!

Amazon  * Barnes & Noble

Release Celebration, Day 3: Sky Raiders by Michelle Diener

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Welcome to day three of the Release Celebration for

Sky Raiders

By Michelle Diener

Sky Raiders is the first book in Michelle's new space opera series. She's sharing about how it came together today. If you missed Michelle's release-day message, go read it HERE, if you missed her talking about her leading characters, go check that out HERE, and don't forget to enter the giveaway below...

Sky Raiders

(Sky Raiders #1)

by Michelle Diener

Adult Sci-Fi, Space Opera

ebook, 349 Pages

December 5th 2016

First they flew their mysterious sky craft through the skies of Barit. Then they started attacking. Finally, they began to raid.

Garek's one year of duty as a guard walking the walls of Garamundo was extended to two when the sky raiders appeared. Two long years away from home and his lover, Taya. When he finally returns, the town is empty. While Garek was protecting Garamundo, the sky raiders were taking their victims from his hometown.

Taya can't bear looking into the night sky. All she can see is Barit, her home planet. Impossibly, the sky raiders have brought her and their other victims to Shadow, the planet that shadows her own, and looking up makes her aware of everything she's lost. Garek is out there somewhere. She knows he'll look, but he'll never find her.

She and the other captives have to find a way to escape. Without the food and clothes the sky raiders bring them from their raids on Barit, they'll starve on the almost barren wastes of Shadow. And when they've given the sky raiders enough of what they want, that's exactly what the sky raiders will leave them to do.

What Taya doesn't realize is she'll have some help with her plan. Because Garek isn't giving up on finding her. And he's even more resourceful than she could ever have imagined.

Nothing is going to keep him from Taya. Not even space itself.

Goodreads│Amazon

The Making of Sky Raiders

Some books take longer than others. :) I wish they all fell onto the page with no effort and much joy, but that's not how it goes, sadly. I started writing Sky Raiders back in 2013. I wrote, and then I stopped, and then I wrote some more. Then I put it aside completely as I worked on the Class 5 series. 

The reason for this is that the story was still brewing in my head. The cultures and world I wanted to build on my imaginary planet of Barit, the overreaching arc of the series, needed time to come together in my head.

I would think of it fondly, play music I associated with it (like Flora's Secret by Enya (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESiRI0nI4mI), which is what I imagine was playing in the heavens when Garek and Taya lay together in the meadows above Pan Nuk) as I worked on the Class 5 series, and looked forward to working on it when the time was right.

When that time came, I knew I'd done the right thing. Writing Sky Raiders was still challenging, but my subconscious had done a lot of work for me, and I was able to clearly visualize the world I wanted to describe.

It's always satisfying when I finish a book, but when I finished Sky Raiders, it felt really good. Like the end of a journey that has been as satisfying to make as to complete.

I hope my readers enjoy it just as much.

— Michelle

Michelle Diener is the award-winning, bestselling author of the Class 5 series. She writes historical fiction, fantasy and science fiction and lives in Australia with her husband and two children.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

Release Celebration Giveaway

10 winners will receive a ebook of Sky Raiders

Open internationally

Ends December 22nd

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Grand Finale Blitz: Catch a Fallen Star by Amy Vastine

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for

Catch a Fallen Star

By Amy Vastine

Sometimes hitting bottom can help you find what the important things in life are. Boone just hopes that Ruby will agree. We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops, go back and check them out...

Launch - Note from the Author

Catch a Fallen Star is the second book in the Grace Note Records series. Readers might remember Boone from the first book, The Girl He Used to Love. Boone gave Dean quite a hard time and was often the reason for Dean’s headaches. I wasn’t sure I could make him into a hero worth rooting for but was up for the challenge.

Harlie's Books - Review

"This book is easily the best Heartwarming book that I’ve read all year. . . . Ms. Vastine wrote an emotional yet somehow funny book that tugged at my heart. . . . Overall, I can’t wait for other readers to find this story. It’s perfection when it comes to the Heartwarming line. It’s everything I want and surprised in the end."

Books, Dreams, Life - Excerpt

He gave her his trademark grin and lowered his voice, which had literally made women swoon. “You want me to sign something for you, pretty lady?”

See? He could be nice.

I Am A Reader - A Single Mother’s Guide to Parenting an Ornery Teenager

Ruby Wynn is a midwife who took over a practice from a woman who also wrote a monthly advice column for the local newspaper. Ruby feels confident about her ability to bring children into the world but doubts her skill at getting her own child through the ups and downs of life. Writing the column comes with the new job and she can’t help but feel like a fraud, telling others how to raise their kids when hers is nothing but trouble. Here’s what I imagine she might have written after a particularly difficult day with her teenaged daughter

Nicole's Book Musings - Excerpt

“We have a celebrity in town. A megastar.”

“What kind of celebrity? A movie star?”

“Not someone from Hollywood. Someone from Nashville.”

Ruby’s interest diminished significantly with that revelation. Country music wasn’t her thing. Never had been, even though Levi loved it. She was more of a progressive rock kind of girl.

fuonlyknew - Excerpt

Those stormy blue eyes that had blown her over were now glaring at her through the slats of the porch railing. He somehow managed to look angrier than he had a moment ago.

Zerina Blossom's Books - Holly's Top 10 Reasons Ruby Should Date a Country Music Star

Ruby Wynn is a single mother, looking to find a way to get as far away from her deadbeat ex-husband because all he ever does is let their daughter down. She’s not looking to fall in love with someone else’s deadbeat ex-husband, even if he is a famous country star. Her best friend is a huge Boone Williams fan, though, and she’d give just about anything to live vicariously through Ruby.

Becky on Books - Review

"I really liked Boone and Ruby together, and Boone and Violet? So. Cute. Seeing her giving him grief for being old and famous and a bit full of himself at times was just too cute and kept him from growing too big a head. The romance of the story was sweet, and the healing that the families managed to do was inspiring. You’ll leave this one with warm fuzzy feelings for sure!"

Book Lover in Florida - Excerpt

Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted Violet and her friend hanging around the display of lighters near one of the empty checkout lanes. They seemed quite interested in what the employees were doing and where they were looking. Violet put a lighter in her pocket and started for the door. Boone noticed that the guy by customer service who was almost certainly the store manager saw the same thing. He could only imagine how much trouble the kid would get into with a mother like Ruby. He deserted his cart and got to Violet right before the manager confronted her.

Reading Is My SuperPower - Review

"Funny and sweet and romantic, Catch a Fallen Star is more than just a story of two people falling in love. It’s also about family and addiction and recovery and restoration. Toss in a sassy teenager with lots of wisdom in spite of her occasional stupidity and this book becomes a new favorite."

Christy's Cozy Corners - Boone Williams

In Catch a Fallen Star, Boone is at a crossroads. He’s clean and sober but still struggling to get his life together. He’s come to Grass Lake, Tennessee to regroup and find a way to resuscitate his dying career. His record label has set him up at Helping Hooves, an equine therapy farm. The hope is the farm’s social worker can help Boone find the music that’s been missing since he stopped drinking.

Falling Leaves - Excerpt

Was Boone Williams apologizing to her a second time? Ruby wondered if she should pinch herself to make sure it was true. She tried to hold back her grin. “You totally overreacted.”

He scratched the back of his neck. His dark blue T-shirt was pulled tight across his chest. Ruby had to force herself not to stare, but she didn’t want to look into those eyes, either. Holly had made her paranoid.

The Silver Dagger Scriptorium - Ruby Wynn

The last thing Ruby needs is for country music star Boone Williams to connect with her daughter. She doesn’t want another unreliable man to come into their lives. Trust is not something she hands over very willingly. But Boone proves to be more than meets the eye. Not only does he win over Violet, but Ruby can’t deny she’s beginning to fall for him.

Thoughts of a Blonde - Review

"Emotionally gripping! With the latest in her Grace Note Records series, Amy Vastine brings us the story of a legendary country music singer who has lost his way in life and is now on the verge of losing everything that ever mattered to him. The characters are flawed in a a “we’re all human” type of way, and are fighting their way up, trying to get their heads out of the ever sinking reality of their life. It’s edgy, it’s sad, it’s sweet … and the sass on this teen will have you laughing out loud! Loved it!"

Katie's Clean Book Collection - Review

"Their relationship follows a natural course, full of insecurities, triumphs, and fighting against their feelings. I could almost taste their joys and sorrows, which shows good writing. Overall, this is a book full of emotion and one that is enjoyable from start to finish."

Getting Your Read On - Review

"This isn't a romance in the typical sense, but more of the stories of many people with struggles and issues, fighting their way through and finding healing and help in each other. . . . I loved the natural progression of all the relationships in this book. It felt real and sometimes gritty but always with a glimmer of hope and healing on the horizon."

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review

"I really enjoyed this book. It captured my attention immediately and kept it throughout the story."

underneath the covers - Catch a Fallen Star Playlist

This story features a country music star trying to revive his career. To get in the mood for writing a story about a country singer, I decided to scope out the country channels on my Spotify. This is foreign territory to me. I am more of a rock n’ roll kind of girl, but I actually found a lot of songs that grew on me. Country music is full of heartbreak and plenty of romance. There’s equal parts sass and sentimentality.

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

He guided Ruby out of the studio. She almost tripped on her way down the last step, but Boone caught her.

“You okay?” he asked, steadying her on her feet.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway below...

Catch a Fallen Star
(Grace Note Records #2)
by Amy Vastine

Adult Contemporary Romance
Mass Market Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
December 1st 2016 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He's got to save his career—and himself

Hitting rock bottom has landed country star Boone Williams in the middle of his worst nightmare: a recording studio on a horse therapy farm hours away from Nashville. He has no interest in dealing with his problems or writing a new album. And he's definitely not interested in the gorgeous, feisty mom of one of Helping Hooves's young clients. She doesn't even know who he is! But his record label is one tabloid story from cutting him loose, and Boone can't seem to turn around without bumping into Ruby and her daughter, Violet. Clearly, Boone's not going to get what he wants. Could Ruby be just what he needs?

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Barnes & Noble│Harlequin

Other Books in the Series

The Girl He Used to Love
(Grace Note Records #1)
by Amy Vastine

Adult Contemporary Romance
Mass Market Paperback & ebook, 368 pages
July 1st 2016 by Harlequin Heartwarming

The past will always be between them

He swore he'd never return home. Then a flat tire lands Dean Presley back in Grass Lake, Tennessee, and he's forced to confront the woman he left behind. Faith Stratton was once the love of his life. Now her gifted brother could be the rising Nashville star Dean needs for his struggling music label. But it means taking Sawyer away from the horse therapy farm that Faith's so proud of. That won't be easy, especially since those old feelings that started all the trouble… Well, let's just say he can't go back there, because he doesn't want to relive the memories of the terrible accident that drove them apart.

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Barnes & Noble│Harlequin

Amy Vastine has been plotting stories in her head for as long as she can remember. An eternal optimist, she studied social work, hoping to teach others how to find their silver lining. Now, she enjoys creating happily ever afters for all to read. Amy lives outside Chicago with her high school sweetheart-turned-husband, three fun-loving children, and their sweet but mischievous puppy dog.

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Tour Giveaway

- 1 winner will win a grand prize of The Girl He Used to Love, A Heartwarming Holiday anthology, winner’s choice of CD or MP3 of Tim McGraw’s album Damn Country Music, and a guitar Christmas ornament (US only)

- 5 winners will win an ebook of A Heartwarming Holiday anthology and a 20% off coupon for a Heartwarming novel of their choice from Harlequin.com (open internationally)

- 5 winners will win The Girl He Used to Love (paperbacks US, ebook international)

- Ends December 23rd

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