Reading, wRiting, and Roaming with Author Valerie Biel

Welcome to the September installment of the 2021 Author Series, where a published author shares with us what advice they would give to their younger/pre-published self. Sara Dahmen is our September author, but she does so many more things than writing I can't even begin to list them here . . . just scroll down for her full bio. (Seriously!) I first met Sara at a writing conference and immediately admired her spirit, energy, and tenacity. Anyone who does the cookware research for her historical fiction so well that she ends up not only with a new hobby, but starts a company selling such cookware and learns how to make it, too. . . is my kind of person! 

I've interviewed her before... Continue Reading

Often my book reviews highlight my favorite stand-alone books, but this post is going to focus on the excellent series I’ve been reading and highly recommend—both romance (romantic suspense) and mysteries. (Click on the either the title or the book cover image to learn more and go to the book's purchase page.)

The Westmoreland Dynasty Series by Judith McNaught

IF YOU LOVED BRIDGERTON, both the books by Julia Quinn and the Netflix Series (and—swoon—who didn’t?), I think you’ll love the historical romance Westmoreland series by Judith McNaught.

The series begins with Whitney, My Love set in England’s Regency period, continues with A Kingdom of Dreams which goes backward in time to Scotland in 1497, and moves back to 1800s England for Until You and Miracles, books... Continue Reading

I’ve read so many good books since the beginning of May that it is a struggle to only share a manageable number of those with you. To help avoid overload, this post details my favorite stand-alone stories of late. (In September, I will focus on the series I’ve been enjoying.) And take a look at the covers on these books--I love them all for different reasons. 

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

PURCHASE HERE 

This book is enchanting! Written from the point of view of a nonverbal eleven-year-old girl with cerebral palsy, you’re dawn into Melody’s world, her mind, and her frustrations over not being understood. It has taken... Continue Reading

When I first heard about Rochelle Melander’s new book, I was so excited about the overall theme and concept. THEN I received the advance reader copy and was blown away by the design, content, and – well – everything this book has to offer. Here’s my official review:

Mightier Than the Sword: Rebels, Reformers, and Revolutionaries Who Changed the World Through Writing is a delightfully informative book that will allow readers of all ages to learn more about inspiring writers throughout history. Written for the middle-grade audience, this book will have a broad appeal well beyond this age group. The book’s gorgeous design, organization, and illustration combined with succinct biographies will keep the reader engaged. Particularly intriguing are the way the author presents how... Continue Reading