Tuesday, December 8, 2015

The Bartered Bride Blog Tour +Giveaway!

Today I have a spotlight for a newly released book to share! While I haven’t yet read any of Lena’s books, I hope to soon. After all, I love a good Western romance. :)

The-Bartered-Bride

About the Book

COLORADO 1880

Jem Wheeler has always been a survivor. He just wants to make a fresh start in Colorado Springs after the loss of his wife. But then he happens upon a young mute woman being sold off to the highest bidder. He wasn’t looking for a mail-order bride. He wasn’t looking to rescue anyone either. But desperate circumstances can drive a good man to do things he hadn’t planned on doing...

When Jem steps into Annie’s life, she’s not expecting anyone to save her. Mute from birth, she’s just using all her wits to survive. All she’s ever really wanted is a family of her own. For someone to see her. To look at her long enough to hear the things she can’t say.

Can a rescued bride who can’t speak communicate her love for a grieving widower and his little girl? Will her love ever be returned?

The Brides Series #3

Note: Each book in The Brides Series can be read as a stand-alone novel, but reading in order will provide a more complete reading experience.

Excerpt

Jem took the apple core from his daughter and passed her one of the remaining crackers with a piece of cheese on it. Mae munched that down and looked to him immediately for another, the last one.

He gave it to her, then showed her his empty hands.

She frowned. “More?”

“No more,” Jem said, and showed her his empty hands again, making a bigger gesture out of it, as if the little girl was accusing him of hiding some.

If Annie weren’t so intent on eating her share of cheese and crackers she might have smiled at the sight of them, one of the most dangerous men she’d ever seen sitting side by side with that tiny little girl. They made quite a mismatched pair.

Mae looked over at Annie, at the last cracker in her hand and the last bit of cheese.

Annie gulped down the mouthful she was chewing. She looked down at the last of her meal and back at the little girl. To her shame, she didn’t want to give up her last cracker. She could barely remember the last meal she’d eaten.

“That’s Annie’s food,” Jem admonished the little girl. “You’ve had yours.”

Mae bit her lip. She glanced down at her lap, then back at Annie again.

I can share, Annie attempted to tell Mae with her eyes alone. She snapped her cracker in half—simply unable to bear parting with the whole thing—and passed it across to the little girl. Mae took it and popped the whole thing in her mouth, making Annie smile.

“Mae!” her father said.

She looked at him wide-eyed, her mouth full of cracker. “Whaf dafdda?” she said, muffled, spraying a few cracker crumbs onto his trousers.

He closed his eyes briefly and brushed them off. “You didn’t have to give her any,” he said to Annie, “but thanks.”

Annie grunted, her way of saying she didn’t mind that much. She looked down quickly and finished her last bit of food. The crackers had been crispy and the cheese silky and smooth. They’d tasted like heaven.

“You must be thirsty,” he said. “Do you mind sharing?”

She shook her head and automatically lifted two fingers.

“Two’s no?” he asked.

She nodded, pleased, and lifted one finger. She’d grown up sending signals through the floor of the Ruskins’ house, one stomp for yes, two for no. It came natural as rain now.

“And one’s yes,” he said, catching on quick.

Annie drank deep when he passed her the flask of water, amazed he’d let her drink from it. She tried her best to pour it down her throat without touching her lips to the flask, so he wouldn’t regret giving it to someone so dirty. She wished she could tell him thanks, but after Mae had her fill and he took his own swallow, he was back under his hat, likely going over the events of the day.

How he’d stuck himself with her.

How he probably regretted even stepping off the train at the last stop.

She couldn’t say she blamed him.

She hadn’t much wanted to marry a stranger herself.

Book Links

THE BARTERED BRIDE

http://amzn.to/1Mhq1QR (Kindle)

http://bit.ly/NookBB2 (Nook)

http://bit.ly/KOBOBB (Kobo)

http://apple.co/1O06PtN (iTunes/iBooks)

THE UNEXPECTED BRIDE

http://amzn.to/1iJM8qO (Kindle)

http://bit.ly/BN1UB (Nook)

http://apple.co/1kp0zCf (iTunes/iBooks)

http://bit.ly/KOBOUB (Kobo)

SLEIGH BELLS & MISTLETOE

http://amzn.to/1kBlp0W (Kindle)

http://bit.ly/NOOKSBM (Nook)

http://apple.co/1klJLfo (iTunes/iBooks)

http://bit.ly/KOBOSBM (Kobo)

Author Bio

Lena Goldfinch (1)LENA GOLDFINCH writes sweet Historical Western Romance / Inspirational Romance and books for teens. She’s always been a sucker for a good old-fashioned romance, whether it’s a novel or short story, young adult or adult, fantasy or realistic, contemporary or historical. Lena has been a finalist in several national writing contests, including the RWA Golden Heart and ACFW Genesis contests. She enjoys life in a quiet, small town with her husband, two kids, and two very spoiled Black Labs.

Social Links

Website: www.LenaGoldfinch.com

Facebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/lenagoldfinch

Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/LenaGoldfinchAuthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lena_goldfinch

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lenagoldfinch/

Giveaway!

BB-Blog-Giveaway

In celebration of the release of The Bartered Bride, Lena is giving away some awesome prizes!

· Grand Prize: $25 gift card (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iBooks, Kobo, or Google Play—winner’s choice) + all three ebooks in The Brides series (Open internationally)

· Second Prize: Paperback copy of The Bartered Bride (Open to US residents only)

· Third Prize: All three ebooks in The Brides series (Open internationally)

To enter these drawings, just fill out the Rafflecopter form below. Winners will be chosen after the end of the blog tour (December 19, 2015).

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Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Deny Blog Tour—Book Review +Giveaway!

Today I’m taking part in the blog tour for Deny by Tricia Mingerink, which just came out on Monday. This is one of my favorite series, and I’m excited to share my review with you. :)

deny_cover_resize

About

All lies have consequences.

Promoted to the top rank among King Respen’s assassins, First Blade Leith Torren hides his involvement with the Resistance. How many lies will it take to protect his secret?

Renna Faythe has done nothing but survive for the past four years, but now Leith’s courage inspires her to try to be something more. If only she could figure out what that duty might be.

When the unthinkable happens, faith waivers. Friendships tear. What else will they be forced to deny?

But this time, Leith faces his greatest fear.

He can’t save everyone.

My Review 5

Ever since I read Dare and fell in love with it, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series. Of course, that involved waiting for it to be published. When that time came, I jumped at the chance to get an advanced copy. Let me tell you, from the moment I started reading it, my stress levels went through the roof. I was so nervous for the characters! Tricia did a great job in creating tension that kept growing and keeping me on the edge of my seat all the way up until the end. And yes, the book even made me cry, which doesn’t happen often. guy-in-black-hood-quote1

The thing I adore so much about these books is the hero, Leith. If you love broken, noble heroes as much as I do, then these books are for you. He’s in my list of top favorite fictional characters.

I can hardly wait for book three! Especially considering the ending. I can’t imagine what is going to happen next. I just know the next books in the series are going to torture my emotions and stress me out, but I mean that in the best possible way. I love books that grip you and drag you right into the heart of the story. And for all you who ask me how I can be so mean to my characters, rest assured, I’m getting a taste of my own medicine. ;)

If you haven’t had a chance to start this series yet, I highly recommend that you do so!

I received this book free from the author in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

dsc09450-2Tricia Mingerink is a twenty-something, book-loving, horse-riding country girl. She lives in Michigan with her family and their pack of pets. When she isn’t writing, she can be found pursuing backwoods adventures across the country.

You can connect with her on Facebook, Pinterest, Goodreads, Twitter, Instagram, and her blog.

 

 

 

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Blog Tour Schedule

November 16

November 17

November 18

November 19

November 20

November 21

November 23

November 24

November 25

November 27

November 30

  • Release Day!

December 1

December 2

December 3

December 4

Monday, November 30, 2015

Lily of the Valley Blog Tour-Book Spotlight + Giveaway!

 banner

Happy Cyber Monday! In honor of the biggest internet shopping day of the year, or at least one of them, Faith Blum decided to do a blog tour release of her newest novel, Lily of the Valley. There are two giveaway opportunities and lots of fun interviews and excerpts.

About the Book

Howdy, Teacher! You don’t know me, but my kids talk bout you a lot. I been lookin fer a wife and mother fer a few years and was wonderin iffen we cood meet and get to no each other a bit. I’ll come after skool to git yer answer. Grover Miller
Lily of the Valley FrontUnruly schoolchildren, three suitors, and too many things to do. When Ruth Brookings rejects one of the suitors, he refuses to accept no for an answer. To make matters worse, when she prays for guidance, she’s answered with a challenge instead: To encourage her friend to find a wife—whether he wants one or not. Will she lose her friend just when she needs a friend the most? Will she be able to weather the storms she’s about to face? Purchase on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B016VAJ7EW

 

About the Author

Author Picture 2015-2016 b Faith Blum started writing at an early age. She started even before she could read! She even thought she could write better than Dr. Seuss. (The picture doesn't show it well, but there are scribblings on the page of Green Eggs and Ham). Now that she's grown up a little more, she knows she will probably never reach the success of Dr. Seuss, but that doesn't stop her from trying. When she isn't writing, Faith enjoys doing many right-brained activities such as reading, crafting, writing, playing piano, and playing games with her family. One of her dreams is to visit Castle City, Montana someday to see the ghost town she chose for her characters to live in. She currently lives on a hobby farm with her family in Wisconsin.

Free Book

BTMV Free Promo 11

Today is the last day to get Be Thou My Vision (Hymns of the West #2) free! Here is the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NF3QV52

Giveaway

Faith has a Goodreads giveaway going on through November 30th! Be sure to check it out and enter to win one of two signed paperback copies of Lily of the Valley.  

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Lily of the Valley by Faith Blum

Lily of the Valley

by Faith Blum

Giveaway ends November 30, 2015. See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter Giveaway

Giveaway

In addition to the Goodreads giveaway, Faith is also giving away all four of her paperback novels to one lucky winner!

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Bloggers involved

November 29:

Writings, Ramblings, and Reflections-Tour introduction

Shanna Hatfield-Book Spotlight

November 30:

Musings of Inspiration-Author Interview/Book Spotlight

C.K.Rich-Book Spotlight

Singing Librarian Books-Book Review/Author Interview

Writing Dreams-Author Interview/Character Interview/Book Spotlight

Tara Ellis - Wife. Mother, Indie Author and Photographer-Book Spotlight

Christa Reads & Writes-Book Spotlight

Rebekah Lyn Books-Book Spotlight

The Overactive Imagination-Author Interview

Wildflower Acres-Book Review/Spotlight

Jaye L. Knight-Book Spotlight

Zerina Blossom's Books-Book Review/Spotlight

God's Peculiar Treasure Rae-Book Spotlight

Tamie Dearen’s Blog-Book Review/Spotlight

Clean Indie Reads

Friday, November 27, 2015

Black Friday Craziness

I don’t know how many of you braved the Black Friday craziness. I did. Yep, I dragged myself out of bed, stumbled through getting dressed, and braved the cold. And. It. Was. Cold. *shivers* By the time I actually got inside the first store, I didn’t care about any of the sales anymore. I just wanted to get warm! Well, I did end up getting everything I wanted, so it wasn’t for nothing. But I’m cozied up at home now, wearing the new Minion pajama pants I just bought. And I’m thinking more and more about how I like shopping online instead. So, if you’re like me, here are the Black Friday sales I have to offer you! I had them all in my email I sent out on Wednesday, but not all of you are on my emailing list and I didn’t want you to miss out!

KindleBookSale

All the Ilyon Kindle books are on sale! Just hop on over to Amazon to get your copies, or gift them to someone! There’s also a sale on nearly all of my previously published books (as Molly Evangeline). You can find them on Amazon too.download

But Kindle books aren’t the only book sales for you! You can get all of my paperbacks at around 20% off, plus get book sets at a discount. And they all include free shipping! Just check out Indie Christian Books. You can order the Resistance audiobook CD there as well. And there are many other awesome books by indie Christian authors on sale too!

HolidaySale

And don’t forget Etsy! From now through Monday you can get 20% off all jewelry and accessories! Just use the promo code HOLIDAY20 at checkout.

Thanks for your support!

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Books I’m Thankful For and Black Friday Book Sale!

Smiley

Like most other bookworms, great books make their way onto my "things I'm thankful for" list every year. It's hard to choose favorites, especially since I didn’t get a chance to read nearly as many as I would have liked, but here are five books I read in 2015 and am thankful for.
  1. The Way of Kings, by Brandon Sanderson: I had heard of Brandon Sanderson, but didn’t know anything about his books. I probably never would have read them if I had not seen some of my online friends gushing over them. It’s hard to find good fantasy, and this book, along with book 2, quickly became on of my all time favorites. I am thankful to have a fantasy series that is not only fascinating, but quite clean as far as secular fiction goes. 
  2. Exiles, by R.J. Larson: I was so excited to start R.J. Larson’s new series, and it did not disappoint. One of the things I love most about her books is how well she writes God’s relationship with His people. Her books are not only entertaining, but also very spiritually uplifting. 
  3. Dare, by Tricia Mingerink (which is part of the Black Friday sale!!): You never know what it’s going to be like reading an indie book. Will it be good? Will it be bad? And if you happen to know the author, what in the world do you tell them if you don’t like it?! I had some of these anxieties when I first sat down to read Dare. Oh what a pleasant surprise. The book was fantastic, and I completely fell in love with it. Book 2 is just as good. I love how real Tricia’s characters and their struggles are.
  4. Siren’s Fury, by Mary Weber: This is a rather dark series, but it’s definitely one that gets you thinking. I very much appreciated the powerful conclusion the main character reached concerning the power of love.
  5. A Worthy Pursuit, by Karen Witemeyer: Karen Witemeyer is my favorite historical author. I’m always giddy with excitement whenever she has a new book coming out. I’m thankful to have such wonderful stories to look forward to from her.
I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to another great year of reading! Speaking of more reading, here's one more thing to be grateful for. Books on sale! In honor of Thanksgiving and Black Friday, a group of independent Christian authors banded together to offer over seventy discounted books on Nov 27-30. There's literally something for everyone.

Every single book listed on Indie Christian Books is on sale in one or more ways. Find discounted paperbacks, dozens of books offered with free shipping, $0.99 ebooks, package deals and more. Even if you have a budget of $0, new reading material awaits you.

Don't know what to pick? The fearless Indie Christian Books team created a quiz that will generate a book list perfect for you! Check it out!

Book Quiz

What awesome reads of 2015 are you grateful for? What books are you looking forward to reading in 2016?
A note on the Ebooks Only page. All books are listed as "Sold Out." This only refers to paperback copies of these titles. Please click onto the product pages to find descriptions and links to discounted or free ebooks.
Acknowledgements: Thanks to Leah E. Good for her work organizing this sale, Gloria Repp for completing the time consuming job of uploading book info to the sale website, and Hannah Mills for her fantastic design work on the website graphics. Hannah can be contacted at hmills(at)omorecollege(dot)edu for more information about her design services.

Friday, November 20, 2015

Resistance Audiobook + Giveaway!

As many of you may know, I’ve been working J. Grace Pennington to produce an audiobook version of Resistance. I’m very happy to announce that the day has finally come that said audiobook is finished and available! Under normal circumstances, I might have had some participating bloggers and a big release celebration, but this time of year is way too crazy to plan something like that. I didn’t want to push the release back because I want it available for Christmas sales, so here it is. :)

ResistanceAudiobookCover

Buy Now!

At the moment, the MP3 version is available for download, but for those of you who don’t have the internet power to download it (like me :P ), or you’d just rather have a hard copy, I’ve got it covered! I should have a CD version of the audiobook available to purchase in a week or so. I’m just waiting on my shipment of CD inserts and cases. :)

The audiobook costs $19.99 to purchase, but I’m offering a special introductory price and early holiday sale. From now through Monday, November 30th, you can get it for 20% off! Again, if you’d like the CD version, don’t worry. I’ll have the same discount on them once they’re available.

When you go to purchase the MP3 version, just use the promo code SPECIAL20 when you check out to get 20% off. :)

Here is the first chapter so you can give it a listen!

But what would a release be without a giveaway, right? Use the form below to enter to win a CD copy of the audiobook! U.S. entries only please. I’m afraid I can’t ship internationally.

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Wednesday, November 18, 2015

How A Star Falls Anniversary

You may remember my review of How A Star Falls by Amber Stokes that I shared as part of the release of the novella. Well, that was a whole year ago! Now Amber is celebrating the one year anniversary!

A Note from the Author

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

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

Blessings through life’s seasons!

~Amber

About the Book

HowaStarFalls-new

Sweet New Adult Contemporary Romance Novella

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

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

Then Brielle falls into his world.

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

And his whole world falls apart.

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

This novella is available in the following formats:

How-a-Star-Falls-audio-cover-new22-hour unabridged audiobook ($6.95)

Paperback ($6.99)

Kindle ebook ($.99)

 

 

 

 

 

Author Bio

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

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

Cover Designer Bio

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

Visit Lena at www.LenaGoldfinch.com.

Giveaway!

How a Star Falls Anniversary Giveaway CollageFill out the form below to enter to win one of three prizes from some of the author’s favorite Etsy shops! The prizes are…

· Sparkle Green and Red Christmas Earrings from Baubles, Beads and Stuff

· Silver Compass Crystal Charm Necklace from Jaye L. Knight

· Santa Bunyan Note Cards (Set of 3) from Cindy Lindgren

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

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

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Thursday, November 12, 2015

Kate’s Innocence Blog Tour—Guest Post + Giveaway!

kblog tour

Today I’m sharing a guest post by author Sarah Holman introducing the main character of her new book, Kate’s Innocence! Sarah is also offering a giveaway, so make sure to enter! But first, a little bit about the book.

About:

What would you do if you were accused of a crime you didn’t commit?

Kate watched as her campus was torn apart by bombs and now is being accused of perpetrating the crime. As the evidence quickly stacks up against her, she begins to lose hope that the truth will come to light. Even though the handsome FBI Agent, Patrick, has taken up her cause, will they be able to prove her innocence? Will God, who she neglected for so long, listen to her prayers for help?

Patrick is an agent with a very special team of agents. He wants to help Kate prove she is innocent, but as each new piece of evidence is revealed, that goal seems harder. He wonders why he feels so compelled to help her and so sure she is innocent despite the evidence. Will he be willing to put his job on the line to help her? Can he trust in God to make sure the truth will come out in the end?

KMeetKate

Today I would like to introduce you to the main character of my new series, Kate’s Case Files. She is accused of a crime she didn’t commit and is working with the FBI to prove it. But who is Kate Mayfield?

~ is a 22 year old college student

~ is studying to become an explosives expert in the army

~ has already served one tour-of-duty in the army

~ is the daughter of a general in the army

~ loves to jog

~ doesn’t like sugar

~ doesn’t have a lot of friends

~ has straight, blond hair

~ has brown eyes

Here is a peek into her story:

The whole building shook, and Kate fell to the floor as she heard the window shatter. All the lights went out, and Kate lay for a moment gasping for breath. What had just happened? Had someone thrown a rock through the window? Had a transformer blown?

“Kate? What did you knock over this time?” Her father’s voice was full of amusement. “Sometimes, I wonder how you do so well in the military being klutzy out of it. I guess the army is in your blood.”

Kate blinked in the darkness. She sat up, the clinking of broken glass met her as she shifted and looked around. Screams and panicked voices called to each other outside her dorm room. An orange glow came from the direction of the blown-out window.

“Kate?!”

“Dad, something has happened.” Kate’s voice squeaked as she scrambled to her feet.

“What has happened?”

“I don’t know,” Kate whispered. She moved slowly toward the window, afraid to find out.

“What?”

“I’ll call you back, Dad.” Kate hung up before there could be any further argument. She walked slowly toward the window, moving her tennis shoe back and forth on the floor to brush away the glass. Her eyes widened in horror as got closer to the window. In front of her, one of the main lecture halls was burning. Something very bad had happened.

Bam!

Kate’s ears hurt, and she could not believe her eyes as an explosion ripped through the administration building further away.

Giveaway

Kgiveaway

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Monday, November 9, 2015

Black Friday Promo Survey

Yep, it’s that time of the year. The holidays are just about here. *still mourning over the end of summer* Anyway, this is always a time for great sales. I’ll be participating in a Black Friday promo with other fellow indie Christian authors, but we want to know what YOU would like to see as part of the promo. Just fill out the survey below.

Thursday, November 5, 2015

An Update and a New Award!

Hey everyone! Long time, no . . . uh, post. Yeah, my life is a chaotic mix of racing to edit Samara’s Peril, keeping up with Etsy orders, and preparing for holiday sales. I seriously feel like I’m never going to catch up. Why can’t days be 48 hours instead of 24? I definitely need a few more hours to get to everything that’s pressing on me every day. Such is the life of a self-employed entrepreneur, I suppose. Despite all the chaos, I am incredibly grateful for how God has been providing and giving me success I never imagined having, in both my writing and my Etsy business. I might feel like I’m drowning in deadlines and pressing business stuff, but it’s better than wondering how you will afford even simple necessities.

Now, for the award bit. I’m a little late in sharing this news, but a couple of weeks ago, I got the news that Resistance has been honored with a B.R.A.G. Medallion!

BragMedallion

I’m so excited about how Resistance is doing. I was really quite nervous when I first published it, sending my baby out into the big, scary world. But my fears weren’t necessary, thanks to God working in the story and the wonderful readers who have become so dear to me over the last year and a half. You all are the best! :)

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

The Crossways Blog Tour—Character Spotlight

I have another blog tour post for you today! This one is a spotlight for Morgan Elizabeth Huneke’s character, Rae. She sounds absolutely adorable. Make sure you check out my post from Monday for all the information about Morgan’s new book, including a giveaway!

Character Spotlight: Rae

Appearance: Small and delicate, tanned skin, brown eyes, and somewhat scraggly brown hair.

Age: 6

History: Rae is Adriel’s youngest sister and the baby of the family. She, like the others, was born as a slave on Tuvya and Jardeena’s plantation. She’s very sweet, but she has never been very strong, so she is not often able to do all her work, and is therefore not a very valuable slave.

Author’s Notes: Every story needs a super cute little girl, right? Rae definitely is one. She’s cute, and sweet, and little, and exactly what Adriel needs. I created her character at the same time as Adriel, when I wrote his opening scene…where he was whipped for her. She provided the perfect balance for him.

One thing I really love about Rae is the simplicity of her childlike faith. She never doubts God. She’s always encouraging Adriel, praying for him, and doing her best to help him control his temper. She really does believe, and her faith never wavers. Still, she is very timid, and depends on Adriel a lot. I just love their relationship, how they take care of each other, depend on each other, and how they love each other so much. I’ve always loved writing sibling relationships, and theirs is one of my favorites.

 

Tour Schedule

Monday, October 19

Tuesday, October 20

Wednesday, October 21

Thursday, October 22

Friday, October 23

Saturday, October 24

Monday, October 26

Monday, October 19, 2015

The Crossways Blog Tour—Guest Post + Giveaway!

Today I’m sharing a guest post by my writing friend, Morgan Elizabeth Huneke, celebrating the release of her newest book, The Crossways!

Crossways

About the Book

“M’lady, it has been fairly well confirmed that the Redona was hidden away by the merfolk at the conclusion of the Great War instead of destroyed as was commanded. My brother has confirmed to me Joseph’s belief that it was concealed at the Crossways.”

Toarna pressed her fingertips together in thought. “It must be recovered and destroyed as was at first intended.”

Emily, Allan, Jill, and Joey have been reunited with their long lost ancestors. But with that reunion comes the true beginning of their quest: free the rightful king of Calhortz so that he may be restored to his throne. The Redona, the only object that can free him from his long imprisonment, is rumored to be concealed in The Crossways, a mountain across the sea which cannot be entered.

A slave since birth, Adriel’s resentment and hatred towards the strytes only grows as his family is continually ripped from him. He longs for the freedom the Time Captives are prophesied to bring, but he doubts their existence, just as he doubts God’s love. Circumstances in Calhortz are so dire. How could they ever improve?
Who can enter The Crossways? Will the king ever be freed? Or will the slaves of Calhortz lose all hope of freedom before it is even offered to them?

The Crossways is the second book of the Time Captives trilogy, a tale of faith, family, fantasy, and a fight for truth and freedom.

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Guest Post
Pirate Character Arcs

One of my biggest literary pet peeves, aside from poorly developed characters and badly written stories, is when negative character arcs are portrayed as positive ones. It happens far too often. My primary example, however, is from Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean. Will Turner starts out as a blacksmith, a good, upstanding citizen. And I really liked him. As the series progressed, he…became a pirate. Instead of upholding the law, he broke it, and that was considered a good thing.

That really disappointed me. I thought the Pirates movies were exciting and interesting, but I couldn’t love them because the “good guys” were really no better than the bad ones, and we were supposed to be okay with that. Even in Christian fiction, authors still try to have “good” pirates, and that bothers me. So I decided I wanted to write a pirate story where the pirates were actually bad guys. Ironically, a few weeks later, I discovered that Molly Evangeline had done just that in her Pirates & Faith series.

Finally reading a pirate story that met with my standards, and which I loved very much, only served to make me want to write my own even more. I was in the middle of Time Captives, though. It would have to wait. But as I continued to read Pirates & Faith, I determined I wasn’t willing to wait. I put my pirate character into Time Captives and Jeremy Herb kidnapped Emily, Allan, Jill, Joey, and Peetur. I couldn’t stop there, however.

Jeremy came from somewhere. No one starts out as a pirate. I wanted to know where he came from, why he turned to piracy. I was also determined not so show it as a good thing. Piracy sounds grand, but what are pirates essentially? They are the thieves and murderers of the sea. There aren’t “good” pirates. And so, despite Jeremy starting out as just any little boy, he is not a “good” pirate. Turning to piracy destroyed his life.

I did love exploring his history, but it was sad. He made bad choices and it sent him on a downward spiral. He has a negative character arc, and I portray it as negative. Movies like Pirates of the Caribbean make piracy seem like such a grand adventure, but it’s not. It’s just as destructive as any other life of crime, and I hope that’s what Jeremy shows.

About the Author
morgan
Morgan Elizabeth Huneke is a homeschool graduate who lives in Georgia. She has enjoyed creating characters and writing stories since early childhood. Her other interests include reading, playing the piano and violin, and politics. She is the author of Across the Stars and The Experiment.
You can connect with Morgan on her website, blog, Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, and Pinterest.
 
Giveaway
Join in the excitement of Time Captives and enter to win a special prize! The first prize winner will receive a signed copy of The Crossways. The second prize winner will receive an eCopy of The Crossways in the eBook format of his/her choice. Giveaway open to U.S. residents only.

 

Tour Schedule

Monday, October 19

Tuesday, October 20

Wednesday, October 21

Thursday, October 22

Friday, October 23

Saturday, October 24

Monday, October 26

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Lily of the Valley Cover Reveal Correction

Due to an error in the original blog posts about Faith's cover reveal, the entry for the giveaway has been extended more than one full day! You have until noon Central time on Friday, October 16th to enter the giveaway. If you tried to email the cover before, please do so again, this time with the following, CORRECT email address: faith.blum.author[at]gmail.com. Thank you! :)

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Cover Reveal—Lily of the Valley

LotV Cover Reveal Banner

Happy Tuesday! Today we have a blog post with a cover reveal. But, there’s a catch. The author, Faith Blum, has split her cover into 15 different pieces! In order to enter her giveaway, you need to put it together and email her your cover. Or, if you don’t want to enter the giveaway, but you’d still like to see the cover, stop by her blog on Thursday. 

The Prize

The winner will have to be patient, but the prize for this cover reveal is a signed paperback copy of Lily of the Valley. Unfortunately, due to the high cost of shipping internationally, Faith won’t be sending a paperback outside of the U.S. If you are international and would like to participate and win, you will receive an ebook copy of any TWO of my published books including Lily of the Valley. To help you a little with putting together the cover, here is the description:

Howdy, Teacher! You don’t know me, but my kids talk bout you a lot. I been lookin fer a wife and mother fer a few years and was wonderin iffen we cood meet and get to no each other a bit. I’ll come after school to git yer answer. Grover Miller

Unruly schoolchildren, three suitors, and too many things to do. When Ruth Brookings rejects one of the suitors, he refuses to accept no for an answer. To make matters worse, when she prays for guidance, she’s answered with a challenge instead: To encourage her friend to find a wife—whether he wants one or not. Will she lose her friend just when she needs a friend the most? Will she be able to weather the storms she’s about to face?

Details

  • Stop by each blog listed below to get their piece of the cover.
  • Use a program like this website to put the cover together: https://www.befunky.com/features/collage-maker/. If you get a little extra space between each piece, your cover will still count toward the prize. It doesn’t have to be perfect as long is each piece is in the correct place.
  • Email your completed cover to Faith at faith[dot]blum[dot]@gmail[dot]com NO LATER THAN October 14th at 9:00 PM Central time. (If you have problems with time zones, shoot Faith an email and she’ll help you out).
  • Stop by Faith’s blog to see the cover and who won.

 

Piece of the Cover #9

LotV9

 

About the Author

Faith with Rikki-croppedFaith Blum is a 24 year old home school graduate who enjoys doing many right-brained activities such as reading, crafting, writing, and playing piano. Her favorite genre to read and write is Historical Fiction, more specifically, Westerns. In the Hymns of the West series, she has endeavored to create clean, fun, and challenging Western stories for the whole family. She currently has three novels and three novellas published. You can find her in various places online: Website | Blog | Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | New Releases Newsletter | Amazon  

 

Bloggers

Find the other pieces of the cover on these blogs. If you are coming in late and would like direct links to each of the blog posts about the cover reveal, please go to Faith’s website link here. She will update each link to go directly to the blog post about the cover reveal. October 12 The Overactive Imagination Rebekah Lyn Books—with Author Interview Morgan Elizabeth Huneke All Things Literary and Political Hello Precious Bliss October 13 With a Joyful Noise Ruth’s Real Life Flights from Aerie Jaye L. Knight Rachel Rossano’s Words—with Author Interview October 14 Zerina Blossom’s Books God's Peculiar Treasure Rae Wildflower Acres A Brighter Destiny Writing Dreams October 15 Writings, Ramblings, and Reflections—with full cover and winner announcement  

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

The Crossways—Cover Reveal

I have a cover reveal for you all today! This is for The Crossways, book two of Time Captives by Morgan Elizabeth Huneke. I read and reviewed book one earlier this summer, and am really looking forward to reading book two.

Crossways

About the Book

“M’lady, it has been fairly well confirmed that the Redona was hidden away by the merfolk at the conclusion of the Great War instead of destroyed as was commanded. My brother has confirmed to me Joseph’s belief that it was concealed at the Crossways.”

Toarna pressed her fingertips together in thought. “It must be recovered and destroyed as was at first intended.”

Emily, Allan, Jill, and Joey have been reunited with their long lost ancestors. But with that reunion comes the true beginning of their quest: free the rightful king of Calhortz so that he may be restored to his throne. The Redona, the only object that can free him from his long imprisonment, is rumored to be concealed in The Crossways, a mountain across the sea which cannot be entered.

A slave since birth, Adriel’s resentment and hatred towards the strytes only grows as his family is continually ripped from him. He longs for the freedom the Time Captives are prophesied to bring, but he doubts their existence, just as he doubts God’s love. Circumstances in Calhortz are so dire. How could they ever improve?

Who can enter The Crossways? Will the king ever be freed? Or will the slaves of Calhortz lose all hope of freedom before it is even offered to them?

The Crossways is the second book of the Time Captives trilogy, a tale of faith, family, fantasy, and a fight for truth and freedom.

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Release Date

The Crossways, Time Captives book 2, will be released on October 19th, 2015. Stay tuned on Morgan’s blog and Facebook page for more information and sneak peeks.

Free eBook

free

Haven’t yet begun your journey with the Time Captives? Book 1, Creighton Hill, is free on Kindle today only! Find it at Amazon.com!

About the Author

morganMorgan Elizabeth Huneke is a homeschool graduate who lives in Georgia. She has enjoyed creating characters and writing stories since early childhood. Her other interests include reading, playing the piano and violin, and politics. She is the author of Across the Stars and The Experiment.

You can connect with Morgan on her website, blog, Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, and Pinterest.

 

Make sure you also check out the other blogs participating in the cover reveal!

Friday, September 18, 2015

Birthday Surprise

So today is my birthday. I am now 27 . . . hey, wait, didn’t I just turn 21?!! What is this madness?! I think some evil overlord has come and stolen time from me. It has gone WAY too fast. But, anyway, I thought I’d do something special for my birthday. To celebrate, I’m going to give YOU, my faithful readers, a gift. :) So go ahead, open it up and see what’s inside.

happy-birthday-1423433-639x852

(Click)

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

A New Logo and Makeover

So I’ve been pretty absent for the last month and a half. Many of you know that I was up to my eyeballs in sewing projects last month. I had a buckskinners rendezvous I participated in last week with my brothers. We portray the colonial/Revolutionary War era. I already had all the clothing I needed, but my brothers pretty much each needed a full outfit. Not to mention I decided to make a dining fly for my tent. Yeah, I was busy. I plan to write more about that in a separate post though. I’ll just say that the rendezvous was a blast, and I have another one next week that I hope to attend as well.

Now, for the point of this point. Somewhere in the midst of the sewing craziness last month and early this month, I played around a little with Photoshop. For a while now, I’ve wanted a logo. Originally, I wanted to do something for Living Sword Publishing, but then I decided to make one for my pen name instead. After all, I used Jaye L. Knight for both writing and for my Etsy business. This is what I came up with. Ain’t he cute? ;) (And for those who have read Half-Blood, yes, he is the same sort of jay as Strune.) I’m very happy with how it turned out.

Of course, a new logo called for a makeover. As you can see, I’ve changed my blog a bit to incorporate it. I’ve also given my website a fresh makeover. I’m very excited to have my own logo. I think I shall have to go design some more business cards now. ;)

Friday, September 4, 2015

Water Princess, Fire Prince Blog Tour—Author Interview

I’m back again with another blog tour post for Kendra E. Ardnek’s new book, this time to share an interview with the author herself! But first, a bit about the book I see everyone raving about. :)

Water and Fire (1)

Book Description:

When the Lady Dragon does come,
Hold fast, do not fear, do not run.
Your Water Princess will fight,
Fire Prince will set all to right.
Each shall come from a Fall,
Their union will save you all.


Despite the fact that she's on track for competing in the Olympics, and he's practically raised his younger brothers since they lost their mom in a car accident, Clara Mandras and Andrew Stevenson are pretty much normal teens. They have normal hopes, normal dreams, and they live in a normal world.

All this is torn away from them when they are thrust into another world and declared Water Princess and Fire Prince. With no experience ruling a country, meeting each other for the first time, and being expected to fight the Lady Dragon – an evil sorceress plaguing the world of Rizkaland – Clara and Andrew are underprepared and inexperienced. Unless they learn to work together despite their standing opposition, Rizkaland's hope will be lost.

What is to come will change their lives forever.

Available on Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Water-Princess-Prince-Rizkaland-Legends-ebook/dp/B00YTQBTDI/

Add it on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24022364-water-princess-fire-prince

Part 1’s first chapter: http://knittedbygodsplan.blogspot.com/2014/12/water-princess-chapter-1.html

Part 2’s first chapter: http://knittedbygodsplan.blogspot.com/2014/12/fire-prince-chapter-1.html

Snippet:

After several long minutes, the girl ran up to the side of the tub with a large towel and the announcement, “I’m ready! You can get out now!”

Clara sank down further. “Then leave the room.”

The girl frowned. “But if I leave, I can’t help you prepare for dinner, and if you’re late, what would Lady Roxanne say? She’d send me back to the village for certain! And the water must be getting cold – your toes are blue!”

Clara shifted, kicking one foot out of the water for a brief moment. It was actually a normal color – pretty amazing considering the fact that it had been submerged in an ice cold river, and then trudged down a mountain without shoes.

“Oh,” she said, realizing what the girl was talking about. “That’s fingernail polish. Or toenail in this case. My friends and I had a sleepover last night, and they insisted we paint our nails.”

“Oh.” The girl had to think about this for a little while. “So, are you going to get out or not? You’re starting to look like a gava, and that just won’t do.”

“A gava?”

“You don’t know what a gava is?” The girl sounded incredulous. “Well, it’s a type of fruit – but dried. Before it’s dried it’s called a primmon. And it gets all wrinkly.”

“So you mean a raisin?” Clara asked.

“A what?”

“Never mind. Okay, so you can’t leave the room, and I have to get out. Could you – could you at least turn your back?”

“If I turn my back, how can I hold the towel for you?” The girl let out a pitiful sigh. “Look, I’ll hold it really high and close my eyes.” And then, as she did so, she added in undertone, “Not that you have anything I’ve never seen before.”

Interview:

What was the first story you ever wrote?

Off the top of my head, I think it was a retelling of the Ugly Duckling when I was in preschool, but I can’t remember for certain. I started writing early

What inspired you to start writing?

My introduction to writing was not so much of an inspiration, as my mother would sit me down with pen and paper and help me commit the stories in my head to the written word. I still have a Paul Bunyan story and a gender-swapped Rumplestilskin in my desk somewhere.

What is the most interesting experience you’ve had while writing?

Hmmmm … I think I’ll go with when I was writing Clara and Andrew’s first kiss in the first draft. I was babysitting for my aunt at the time, and they had just gotten home and were fixing supper and watching a Barbie Movie (Princess Charm School, if I remember right), and my uncle was joking around about how I was getting so many romantic ideas from Barbie because I was writing Water Princess, Fire Prince at that moment, and I literally fell out of my chair laughing so hard because I had just written the line “You kissed me.”

I’m also easily amused.

If you could spend a day with any historical figure, who would it be and what would you like to do?

Ooh, I don’t know. I’m actually more curious about the cultures than the actual people, so I’m really pulling a blank. Possibly Noah. I’d like to hear a first-hand account of the pre-flood world.

Do you have a special spot or time you like to write?

Not really, I’ll write anywhere, and at any time. Most of my writing is done at on my computer under my loft bed, but that’s because that’s where my desk is.

What do you typically turn to for the most inspiration?

I’ll gather inspiration from anything and anywhere. However, I turn to my mom when I’m absolutely stuck. She usually has good ideas.

And, because I'm feeling random at the moment, what is your dream vacation? ;)

A trek across the USA where I get to meet all of my lovely internet friends.

Author Bio:

100_1992Kendra E. Ardnek loves fairy tales and twisting them in new and exciting ways.  She's been practicing her skills on her dozen plus cousins and siblings for years, "Finish your story, Kendra", is frequently heard at family gatherings.  Her sole life goal has always been to grow up and be an author of fantasy and children's tales that also glorify God and his Word. You can read more about her on her blog,knittedbygodsplan.blogspot.com.

Free Books!

31st-4th: Sew, It’s a Quest: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005G3ZFKG

Do You Take This Quest? http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CFDHFT4/

1st – 5th: The Ankulen: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EZAXWYM/

CinderEddy: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KZNW2TO

Saffron’s Big Plan: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HYS9W2/

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Award for The King’s Scrolls

I have super exciting news this morning! The King’s Scrolls has won a GOLD medal in the 2015 Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards!!!

TKSAward

I had no idea if I was still in the contest or not, since finalists weren’t announced ahead of time, so to check last night and see that I’d won Gold was especially surprising and thrilling. I think it will take a while to sink in. ;) But I want to say thank you to all my wonderful readers for going on this journey with me! I couldn’t imagine when I first started publishing that I’d reach this point. Even just four years ago when I first started Ilyon Chronicles, I had no idea it would turn into what it has. It’s been incredible to see God work through all of this.

I also want to give a big congratulations to Nadine Brandes and Angie Brashear who also placed the the Christian Fantasy/Sci-Fi category!!

One more thing, also check out my earlier post from today as it features a title reveal for a fellow author. ;)

Kendra E. Ardnek Title Reveal

Today I have the pleasure of helping fellow author, Kendra E. Ardnek, reveal the title of the second book in her current series! And from what I hear, book one, Water Princess, Fire Prince, is spectacular. (This title reveal is part of the blog tour for said book.) So, without further ado, *cue dramatic voice and music* I give you, the title…

LDTD


Lady Dragon,
Tela Du

Two girls with one face
Two girls with twisted fate
One in purple, one in red
One shall speak the other’s death
Who shall win their final war?
Lady Dragon or Tela Du?

Amber, the Lady Dragon, has been promised fifty years ruling over Rizkaland, and it is time for her to claim it. Only one person stands in her way of ruling forever – the Tela Du, the girl who shall share her face.

The last thing Petra wants is to have to fight and kill the Lady Dragon. What she wants is to have a normal life, and to prove that she isn’t insane for remembering sisters that no one else can. Rizkaland has other ideas.

The Story Behind this Book:

Nearly ten years ago now, the first of the new Narnia movies released, and I got to see it in Theaters – actually, the last movie we got to see as a family. A friend of ours had also seen the movie, and had been converted to the Narnia fandom, and so as we were chatting about it, one of us had a brilliant idea – why don’t we make our own Narnia movie? We all loved acting, so it seemed like the most natural thing in the world.

As the eldest of that threesome, and the most adamant about the plot, I took on the responsibility of writing the script, then titled “The Giraffe, The Witch, and the Tunnel Tube.” At first it resembled Narnia fairly closely, the changes we made were for casting or prop reasons – we didn’t have a lion costume, we did have giraffe. We didn’t have a wardrobe, we did have a tunnel.

After several fits and starts, my mother told me that I needed to put it away and rehash it so it resembled Narnia less, perhaps make it summer instead of winter, a dragon instead of a witch. So, I followed her advice and managed to turn out my first finished work of any great length. It was quickly followed by a second draft, after I decided that I wanted to make some changes to the ending. A third draft quickly followed when I decided I wanted love interests.

As I finished this third script, I realized that it was far too complicated a story for me to hope to perform at that time. And since it had changed so radically from Narnia by that point, I decided to take the plunge back into novel writing. Shortly before NaNo of ’10, I finished this draft at twenty thousand words, and was terribly proud of myself – though I knew it needed work. However, I now had other story ideas on my plate that were demanding my attention – Bookania and the Ankulen – and I knew I needed to write and publish Water Princess, Fire Prince first.

So I set aside again. Oh I worked on it, here and there and in snippets – one or two scenes especially – but for the most part, it largely sat at the back of my mind festering and boiling.

It’s changed a lot since I started writing it, and this draft that I’m writing now has changed even more. It’s a powerful story that has come with me through some of my darkest years. I’m so thrilled to finally be at the verge of sharing it.

Sneak Peak:

At last Amber came to the men working this farm, a father and his two sons, she guessed, of human stock. They’d suit her purposes just fine.

“Oh, good gentlemen!” she cried, filling her voice with pathos. “I’m so glad to have found you. Do these fields never end?”

The father straightened and regarded Amber critically. “Well,” he said, after several long moments, “I reckon I can say that there are days I wonder the same, though with this drought, they aren’t nearly enough. Who may you be, Miss? It isn’t often we see strangers around here, especially not ones dressed as fine as you.”

“Nor as pretty,” one of the sons commented.

Amber shot the boy an imperious glance. “I am married.” She’d already noticed the way they’d been staring at her while trying to look like they weren’t. She turned her attention back to the father. “I have traveled rather far from home, I fear,” she admitted. “Where I come from, there aren’t nearly as many colors, and the rim of this world curls away from me strangely.”

It took the man several seconds to process Amber’s speech. At length, he asked, “Did the Doorkeeper bring you to us?”

This question took Amber by surprise, and for a moment, she was rendered speechless, as her conversation with Laura echoed through her head. She quickly recovered herself, however, and shook her head. “No, I cannot say that she did.”

And it was true, Amber admitted bitterly to herself. For all the travels she made and grand stories she produced, Laura had never taken Amber anywhere. Amber had been forced to make her own escape both times her world fell.

“Well, perhaps she did and you just didn’t see her, I hear that she can be mighty sneaky at times.” The man shook his head. “But from the looks of your dress and jewels, I’m willing to say you were someone mighty important where you come from. A princess, maybe?”

“Queen.” Amber drew herself to her full stature.

“I see.” The man nodded. “Well, after our last few hard winters and scorching summers, we scarcely have enough to call a fitting meal for royalty, but you’re welcome to come stay at least the night with us before we send you to Loray to meet our own kings and queens. You said you were married, didn’t you?”

She nodded, “I am.”

“So your husband?”

“Accompanied me, but he lacks my ambition.”

“I see,” said the man. “Welcome along then, my dear – I mean, your highness. I don’t think I quite caught your name.”

“I don’t think I gave it to you,” she replied.

Author Bio:

100_1992Kendra E. Ardnek loves fairy tales and twisting them in new and exciting ways.  She's been practicing her skills on her dozen plus cousins and siblings for years, "Finish your story, Kendra", is frequently heard at family gatherings.  Her sole life goal has always been to grow up and be an author of fantasy and children's tales that also glorify God and his Word. You can read more about her on her blog,knittedbygodsplan.blogspot.com.

Free Books!

31st-4th: Sew, It’s a Quest: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005G3ZFKG

Do You Take This Quest? http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CFDHFT4/

1st – 5th: The Ankulen: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EZAXWYM/

CinderEddy: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KZNW2TO

Saffron’s Big Plan: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HYS9W2/