LDStorymakers New Release Newsletter

2008 Release: L.C. Lewis, Twilight's Last Gleaming

2008-11-10T19:53:00.000-08:00

Free Men and Dreamers Volume Two: Twilight's Last Gleaming
by L.C. Lewis
Covenant Communications, May 2008
Historical Fiction

While cannons roar and rockets ignite the American skies, disease ravages the upper Connecticut Valley. Few notice the sufferings of the families...of a single child...a remarkable lad named Joseph. Attentions are focused elsewhere, on the Chesapeake, which guards the entrance to the infant nation's threatened capital.

It is the height of the War of 1812. As the beleaguered American forces begin to rally, Britain's military is divided between battlefronts on two continents. Until Napoleon can be toppled and all of the Crown's resources can be diverted to the American campaign, Britain needs a tactical diversion. They attack the Chesapeake Bay!

Lieutenant Jed Pearson heads to war, leaving his beloved Willows in the care of powerless freed slaves. But soon circumtances will blur the line between adversary and friend, family and foe, British and American.

In this second volume of the epic historical series, Free Men and Dreamers, witness the saga of five families caught up in the tumult of the oft forgotten war that cemented American liberty and set the stage for the great work of the Restoration.

http://www.laurielclewis.com

New Release: H.B. Moore, Abinadi

2008-11-10T15:48:00.001-08:00

Abinadi
by H.B. Moore
Covenant Communications, November 2008
LDS Historical Fiction

Raquel has a secret. As the daughter of one of King Noah's priests, she enjoys a luxurious life and the admiration of powerful men. But her heart belongs to a commoner, a man with no earthly wealth but rich heavenly gifts. When King Noah demands that Raquel join his harem, she flees the only life she has known and marries her secret love. His name is Abinadi. The couple finds abundant joy in their community of believers and in their firstborn son. But when the Lord calls Abinadi as His prophet, their faith is tested to the outermost limits. Abinadi's commitment to the Lord requires them both to give their all--even unto death. Yet if Alma, the newest priest in King Noah's court, chooses to overcome his troubled past and cleave unto the truth, their sacrifice may yield rich fruit. With vivid detail and poignant emotion, this historical novel pulls readers into a fiery tale of love, courage, and faith that is difficult to put down and impossible to forget.

http://www.hbmoore.com

2008 Release: Traci Hunter Abramson, Freefall

2008-11-10T14:07:00.000-08:00

Freefall
by Traci Hunter Abramson
Covenant Communications, February 2008
LDS Action/Suspense

Lieutenant Brent Miller arrived in the Middle East with one objective: get seven hostages out of a hostile country. The plan almost worked. But now he has been left behind--with one of the hostages. It's up to Brent to get Amy Whitmore, a U.S. senator's daughter, across miles of desert to safety. What he doesn't know is that to survive, he needs her as much as she needs him.

http://www.tracihunterabramson.com/freefall.html

New Release: Rachel Ann Nunes, Eyes of a Stranger

2008-11-10T13:13:00.001-08:00

Eyes of a Stranger
by Rachel Ann Nunes
Shadow Mountain, September 2008
Romantic Suspense; National Market

On the first day of her new life, Tawnia McKnight finds herself in Oregon, her fifth state in ten years. Another new job, new friends, a heartache left far behind. Maybe in Portland she can at last find what she is looking for. Maybe she can even forget Bret Winn. Yet tragedy rocks the city, and the man she'd thought--even hoped--never to see again is thrust back into her life. And with him is a stranger, a stranger with inexplicably familiar eyes. Danger looms as Tawnia tries to unravel the clues both to the past and to the current tragedy in Portland. Will she find what she is looking for, or will everything she is beginning to care about slip once again from her grasp?

http://rachelannnunes.com/EyesOfAStranger_book.php

2008 Release: Rachel Ann Nunes, The Ariana Trilogy

2008-11-07T13:41:00.000-08:00

The Ariana Trilogy
by Rachel Ann Nunes
Deseret Book, May 2008
LDS Fiction/Romance

Finally, three complete Ariana novels under one cover!

One rainy Parisian evening finds Ariana de Cotte in a hotel room. It's her wedding night, but Jacques has gone drinking with friends, and she is left alone with her thoughts and memories--memories of a beloved twin brother, lost to her in a terrible accident; of her estranged parents, who shut her out when Antoine died; of the loneliness and anger the consume her. Thus begins the story of an extraordinary young woman who, as her life spirals downward, struggles to find meaning and hope in the face of unimaginable suffering. For the first time under one cover, read Ariana: The Making of a Queen and the two sequels, Ariana: A Gift Most Precious and Ariana: A New Beginning. Follow Ariana and her family over two decades as they learn and love and grow together.

http://rachelannnunes.com/ArianaTheTrilogy_book.php

2008 Release: Rachel Ann Nunes, Fields of Home

2008-11-07T12:24:00.000-08:00

Fields of Home
by Rachel Ann Nunes
Shadow Mountain, February 2008
Women's Fiction, National Market

After a bitter and hurtful past, Mercedes Johnson has painstakingly carved out a life of quiet contentment on a Wyoming farm with her husband, Wayne, and their three sons. All that changes when the birth father of Mercedes' oldest child returns to Riverton. Resentful at the secret Mercedes has kept for thirteen years, Dr. Brandon Rhodes threatens the carefully balanced life she and Wayne have created. As Mercedes uncovers the truth of Brandon's intentions regarding their son and the lies surrounding the past, she is torn between what is and what might have been. One choice, one decision, has led her to this place. How can she live with the consequences?

http://rachelannnunes.com/FieldsOfHome_book.php

New Release: Traci Hunter Abramson, Royal Target

2008-11-07T12:16:00.000-08:00

Royal Target
by Traci Hunter Abramson
Covenant Communications, October 2008
LDS Action/Suspense

When CIA agent Janessa Rogers meets the royal family of Meridia on assignment, she expects to use her skills in linguistics and security detail to protect and serve, but she doesn't expect to find herself engaged to Prince Garrett Fortier, Meridia's most eligible bachelor, as part of the security plan. And she certainly doesn't expect to fall in love with him.

Janessa resists her feelings, fearing conflicts in her personal and professional life, yet when the Prince admits his feigned affection has become genuine she can no longer pretend. Matters of security, society, and spirituality make their unlikely romance even more complex, and escalating political intrigue gives Janessa an excuse to ignore the questions in her heart. But when a terrorist plot against the royal family endangers them both, Janessa and Garrett must face the challenges of loyalty to family, to country, to God--and to love.

http://www.tracihunterabramson.com/royaltarget.html

R. D. Henham, Red Dragon Codex

2008-03-05T10:20:00.000-08:00

Red Dragon Codex
by R. D. Henham (Rebecca Shelley)
Mirrorstone Books, January 2008
Middle-grade Fantasy

For fans of The New York Times best-selling A Practical Guide to Dragons, a new series of fantasy fiction focusing on the power of dragonkind.

The Dragon Codices chronicle adventures with each of ten dragons of Krynn. From the fiery, evil red dragon to the playful copper, each dragon's tale is unique. Sindri Suncatcher, narrator of A Practical Guide to Dragons, shared these tales from his travels with library scribe R. D. Henham.

Mudd lives a peaceful life in his small town, tinkering with the mill and any mechanical devices that he can find. But his peaceful life soon changes when, out of nowhere, a red dragon attacks, burning the town and kidnapping Shemnara, the village seer. Only one clue is left behind -- a cryptic note telling Mudd, "Seek the silver dragon."

Visit www.reddragoncodex.com for more information.

2007 Whitney Award Winners To Be Announced March 22

2008-03-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

2007 Whitney Award Winners To Be Announced March 22

The winners of the 2007 Whitney Awards will be announced during the final evening of the LDStorymakers annual Writers Conference, March 22, 2008. Special Lifetime Achievement Awards will also be presented that night to three persons whose bodies of works and tireless efforts have made a significant impact on the field of LDS popular fiction. This year's honorees are Jennie Hansen, Dean Hughes, and Anita Stansfield.

Finalists for the 2007 Whitney Awards were announced January 15. Books were chosen following nominations from readers throughout 2007. For a list of finalists (and some excellent reading), visit www.whitneyawards.com/finalists.html.

The Whitneys' inaugural year features a solid line-up of contenders, according to committee chair Robison Wells. "I've really been overwhelmed by the response we've had," Wells said. "Hundreds of readers nominated their favorites. The amount of talent among LDS writers right now is really incredible."

What are the Whitneys? The Whitneys are an awards program for LDS fiction, and are sponsored by LDStorymakers. One of the most commonly repeated quotes among LDS authors is from Orson F. Whitney: "We will yet have Miltons and Shakespeares of our own." As it is the goal of LDStorymakers to increase the quantity and quality of LDS fiction, it's only reasonable that the Storymakers should also honor those authors who excel and continually raise the bar.

The Whitney Awards honor novels in the following categories: Romance/Women's Fiction, Suspense/Mystery, Speculative Fiction, YA/Children's Literature, Historical, Novel of the Year, and Best Novel by a New Author. Novels can be nominated by any reader, and nominees are voted on by an academy of industry professionals, including authors, publishers, bookstore owners, distributors, critics, and others.

Nominations are now being accepted for books released during 2008. Novels must be written by a member or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. To learn how to submit a nomination, visit www.whitneyawards.com. Nominate the books you love to make sure that they'll be considered for this award!

LDStorymaker Screenplay Takes First Place in Hollywood's International Family Film Festival

2008-03-04T19:26:00.000-08:00

Screenplay by Email Wins First Prize in Hollywood's International Family Film Festival
The Ardanea Pendant Gets Top Sci-Fi/Fantasy Award
at Raleigh Studios, Hollywood, March 2008

Screenwriter Jeanne McKinney lives in California. LDStorymaker author Anne Bradshaw lives a thousand miles away in Utah. With Jeanne writing through midnight, and Anne hitting the keys at five in the morning, they created a screenplay-by-email that beat competition from around the world for Sci-Fi/Fantasy entries in the International Family Film Festival's 13th annual screenplay contest at the Raleigh Studios in Hollywood.

The Ardanea Pendant tells the story of three 60s college students who save untold lives when an empowered relic guides them on a mind-bending mission to reform the past, creating a new Ireland. It's history with a twist -- or a possible new genre called "Twistory."

For those who read between the lines, this exhilarating movie carries a message for the world -- that each one of us reaching out today can make a powerful collective difference in the future.

Anne and Jeanne are already working on a sequel to The Ardanea Pendant. For more information on the screenplay, please go to annebradshaw.blogspot.com.

Rachel Ann Nunes, The Ariana Trilogy

2008-03-04T19:17:00.000-08:00

The Ariana Trilogy
by Rachel Ann Nunes
April 2008
LDS Fiction/Romance

Finally, three complete Ariana novels under one cover!

One rainy Parisian evening finds Ariana de Cotte in a hotel room. It's her wedding night, but Jacques has gone drinking with friends, and she is left alone with her thoughts and memories -- memories of a beloved twin brother, lost to her in a terrible accident; of her estranged parents, who shut her out when Antoine died; of the loneliness and anger that consumer her. Thus begins the story of an extraordinary young woman who, as her life spirals downward, struggles to find meaning and hope in the face of unimaginable suffering. For the first time under one cover, read Ariana: The Making of a Queen and the two sequels, Ariana: A Gift Most Precious and Ariana: A New Beginning. Follow Ariana and her family over two decades as they learn and love and grow together. As you come to know Ariana, you will weep for her tragedies, smile at her small triumphs, rejoice as she embraces the faith that will sustain her, and feel the love of a good man who helps her find the power to change her life forever. A powerful and moving novel with characters so real you will find yourself revisiting this exceptional story again and again.

Rachel Ann Nunes, Flying Home

2008-03-04T19:07:00.000-08:00

Flying Home
by Rachel Ann Nunes
Shadow Mountain, September 2007
Fiction

What if everything you ever thought was true about your past, wasn't true at all?

Liana Winn, adopted at age four, has always felt like an outsider in her own family. She is plagued by questions surrounding her parents' death in India and the secrecy behind the estrangement of her birth mother and the aunt who adopted her. Her fear to search out the truth has limited all her relationships, preventing her from finding happiness. When Liana meets the successful businessman, Austin Walker, who has risen above his own difficult childhood on a Wyoming farm, she is certain their business will not extend to friendship. Yet she cannot deny their powerful connection and the feeling of hope he offers. But the ghosts of the past will not rest for Liana, and when she travels to India in search of answers, she makes a shocking discovery at her parents' gravesite that just might mean the end of everything she's ever believed.

Visit www.rachelannnunes.com for further details.

Rachel Ann Nunes, Fields of Home

2008-03-04T18:40:00.000-08:00

Fields of Home
by Rachel Ann Nunes
Shadow Mountain, March 2008
Fiction

One decision frozen in time. A choice that can never be altered.

After fighting her way through a bitter and hurtful past, Mercedes Johnson has painstakingly carved out a life of quiet contentment on a Wyoming farm with her husband, Wayne, and their three sons. All that changes when the birth father of Mercedes' oldest child returns to Riverton. Dr. Brandon Rhodes threatens the carefully balanced life she and Wayne have created. Just how far is he willing to go to gain what he feels is rightfully his? As Mercedes uncovers the truth of Brandon's intentions regarding their son and the lies surrounding the past, she is torn between what is and what might have been. One choice, one decision, has led her to this place. How can she live with the consequences?

Visit www.rachelannnunes.com for more information.

Jamie Theler and Deborah Talmadge, Enjoying the Journey: Steps to Finding Joy Now

2008-03-04T18:29:00.000-08:00

Enjoying the Journey: Steps to Finding Joy Now
Jamie Theler with Deborah Talmadge
Horizon (Cedar Fort, Inc.), March 2008
LDS Motivational

As Latter-day Saints we strive for joy in eternal life -- but many struggle to find joy during the journey there. Let this book help you learn to rejoice and find more joy right here, right now. Clearing away the clutter, staying in touch, and living with purpose are only a few of the many tips this book provides to help you enjoy your journey through life. Specific steps in each chapter will guide you through important principles and help you apply them to your feelings, thoughts, and actions. Reach for your full potential as a child of God and find the joy the Lord intends for each of us during our journey back to His presence. Enjoying the Journey is a delightful and heartwarming message for any who need a lift.

Kerry Blair, Counting Blessings

2008-03-04T16:55:00.000-08:00

Counting Blessings
by Kerry Blair
Covenant Communications, March 2008
Nonfiction/Inspirational Essays

Spiritual refreshment is only pages away in this down-to-earth collection of inspiring stories and essays. Like a wise and witty friend, Kerry leads you through the rough spots of life by poking gentle fun in such a vivacious way that you'll be smiling at your own foibles. You'll laugh out loud -- and be moved to tears -- as you discover some of life's greatest truths hidden within this humorous and poignant anthology that celebrates the joy of being alive and shows how greatly each of us is blessed.

Visit www.kerryblair.com for more details.

Terri Ferran, Finding Faith

2008-03-04T16:40:00.000-08:00

Finding Faith
by Terri Ferran
Bonneville Books (Cedar Fort, Inc.), November 2007
LDS Romance/Fiction

Kit Matthews tries to avoid thinking about God -- and her unknown birth mother -- altogether. She loves her family and is content with her life in California. That is, until her parents decide to move to Utah, the land of the Mormons.

New surroundings and culture shock do nothing to help Kit's social life. It is only with the help of Janet, a new friend, that Kit begins to adjust to life in Utah, as well as to the Mormon culture. Janet's older brother, Adam, is more than happy to befriend Kit, but when their feelings begin to go beyond friendship, Kit is torn. Does she really want to devote her heart to a boy who is going to leave her for two years to serve a mission for his faith? Can she support him when she doesn't even believe in his religion?

As Kit looks deeper, she realizes that it isn't Adam's faith she needs to come to terms with -- it's her own.

Go to www.terriferran.com for more information.

Stephanie Black, Fool Me Twice

2008-02-27T23:22:00.001-08:00

Fool Me Twice
by Stephanie Black
Covenant Communications, March 2008
LDS Suspense

When it comes to pleasing her twin sister, Megan O'Connor is an easy touch. She'll do just about anything to gain Kristen's approval, including trading places with her. After all, Kristen's plan promises to get Megan out of a dead-end job and make them both rich. It will be a nice reward for a little genealogical investigation--something that couldn't have happened without the help of Kristen's new LDS acquaintances. And who could blame the twins for using a tiny bit of deceit to manipulate an inheritance out of someone as demanding as their estranged aunt Evelyn?

All Megan has to do is pretend to be Kristen, move into Evelyn's house, and take care of the wealthy old woman until her failing health kills her. It shouldn't take too long. It shouldn't be too difficult. Megan's the nice one. Except for the lie, the task is a natural fit. Everything would be perfect if she could just ignore the guilt--a feeling that only grows stronger as she spends more time with the new friends Kristen arranged for her.

But soon Megan discovers there is more to worry about. She's living in a house of illusions where she isn't the only one playing a part. Someone has developed a new plotline that ends with a death scene--and in this version, the victim won't die of natural causes.

Beneath the surface of the sleepy New England town of Britteridge, deceit weaves a deadly web where turnabout is anything but fair play.

Learn more at www.stephanieblack.net.

Tamra Norton, Make Me a Home

2008-02-27T23:14:00.000-08:00

Make Me a Home
by Tamra Norton
Bonneville Books (Cedar Fort, Inc.), January 2008
Middle Grade Fiction, National Audience

Allie Claybrook has spent the better part of her sixth-grade year as the "new kid" at Edna Elementary School--a title she is eager to shed. When Ivy Peterson moves to town, Allie quickly becomes her friend. It doesn't hurt that Ivy's older brother, Ty, is the best-looking boy in the seventh grade. But it doesn't help that Celeste--the most popular girl in Allie's class--shares Allie's views about Ty. As Allie deals with her father's deployment to Iraq and Ivy deals with her parents' divorce, the girls discover the importance of friendship and a place to call home.

Visit www.tamranorton.com to learn more.

Rebecca Cornish Talley, Heaven Scent

2008-02-27T23:06:00.000-08:00

Heaven Scent
by Rebecca Cornish Talley
Bonneville Books (Cedar Fort, Inc.), February 2008
LDS Fiction/General, LDS YA

She'd wanted her father to pay more attention to her, and she'd wanted her family to be like it used to be. She hadn't wanted everything to change so drastically that she may not even survive it.

As Liza proves herself a basketball star, everyone--from college basketball recruiters to the gorgeous Kyle Reynolds--seems to take note of her. Everyone, that is, except her own father. While her father is busy at his law practice, Liza learns about a strange new religion from Kyle. Could Kyle's religion help her family? Or is it already too late for her father to make amends?

When yet another broken promise finally leads to tragedy, Liza doesn't know if she will ever be able to forgive her father. It will take a good friend, a new belief, and a miracle straight from heaven to help Liza see that she still has a choice. The compelling story of a high school basketball star, this is a novel every girl will want, and none will be able to put down!

Visit www.rebeccatalley.com for more information.

Traci Hunter Abramson, Freefall

2008-02-27T23:01:00.000-08:00

Freefall
by Traci Hunter Abramson
Covenant Communications, February 2008
LDS Action/Suspense

Lieutenant Brent Miller arrived in the Middle East with one objective--get seven hostages out of a hostile country. The plan almost worked. But now he has been left behind--with one of the hostages. It's up to Brent to get Amy Whitmore, an LDS senator's daughter, across miles of desert to safety. What he doesn't know is that to survive, he needs her as much as she needs him.

Visit www.tracihunterabramson.com/freefall.html to learn more.

James Dashner, The 13th Reality: The Journal of Curious Letters

2008-02-27T22:33:00.000-08:00

The 13th Reality: The Journal of Curious Letters
by James Dashner
Shadow Mountain, March 2008
Young Adult Science Fiction, National Audience

From Kirkus Reviews:
A boy...a mysterious letter...twelve clues...a girl...a dad...two very strange strangers. These are just the basic ingredients in this adventure served up by Dashner in what is the start of a series that will capture the imagination of young and old alike. Atticus Higginbottom (Tick to all who know him) is smart, well-adjusted and something of a loner at school, preferring his family, the library and the Internet to his classmates. So he's surprised to receive a letter postmarked in Macadamia, Alaska, from someone he's never even heard of. But he's intrigued and makes a commitment to join with his correspondent to "save many lives." Though there are chunks of text that are overwritten, the telling is generally laced with a strong sense of humor and a sure hand at plot; the author is plainly in tune with today's fan base. Let the adventure begin!

Learn more at www.jamesdashner.com.

Marcia Mickelson, Reasonable Doubt

2007-12-21T10:27:00.000-08:00

Reasonable Doubt
by Marcia Mickelson
Cedar Fort, December 2007
LDS romance/suspense

A beautiful and promising athlete is dead. The only suspect--her fiance--has been apprehended. And as a defense attorney, it is Julia's job to prove that Mick is innocent. But Julia believes he is guilty. No stranger to the crimes that men commit against women, Julia can easily believe that rich, talented, spoiled Mick did indeed kill Avery. Both were basketball stars at the University of Utah, and both were popular; yet everyone--except Mick's family and Julia's boss--believes that Mick is the murderer. As the evidence against Mick mounts, Julia stumbles across a secret Avery had kept hidden from everyone, even Mick. Julia realizes that perhaps she may have more than just reasonable doubt to support Mick's case--if she can face her past and reveal her own secret. Meanwhile, Pablo, Julia's new co-counsel, becomes convinced that Mick did not murder Avery, but can he convince Julia? Guilty or innocent? With Pablo's help, Julia may be able to overcome her own fears and uncover the truth about Avery at the same time--if the murderer doesn't find her first.

Visit www.marciamickelson.com for more information.

2007-10-26T07:19:00.001-07:00

LDStorymakers

New Release Newsletter

October 2007

*Annette Lyon, Spires of Stone

2007-10-26T06:47:00.000-07:00

Spires of Stone
by Annette Lyon
Covenant Communications, September 2007

Take a popular Utah author, mingle a favorite Shakespeare tale, and plop it into 1860s Salt Lake City. The result is a new novel from Annette Lyon, Utah's 2007 Best of State Fiction Medalist. Newly released, Spires of Stone takes on Shakespeare's Much Ado about Nothing. The book is the best-selling Lyon's fifth novel and third historical work.

In addition to taking a page from the Bard for her book, Lyon recounts little-known stories about the construction of the Salt Lake City temple. The construction, which began April of 1853, has many whys and hows that aren't commonly known. But Lyon, who has published two previous novels about Utah's history and older temples (House on the Hill and At the Journey's End) decided to find out, then add characters and a Shakespearean story to the backdrop of 1860s Utah.

"My books aren't 'pioneer' stories," Lyon says. "They follow the next generation, those born here. It's fascinating to discover what daily life was like after the state was settled."

Spires of Stone readers will explore the streets of mid-nineteenth century Utah. They'll glimpse into the construction work, including the transportation problems with the granite. They'll get details about the Earth Stones, a peek at the capstone celebration, and more, such as a scene at Salt Lake City Theater which no longer exists.

Lyon aspires to live up to the Best of State medal she was awarded last May, saying that the honor has made her work even harder to give her readers her personal best.

Visit Annette's website at www.annettelyon.com.

*Results of "Spotlight the Youth" Contest

2007-10-24T19:15:00.000-07:00

Results of Anne Bradshaw's "Spotlight the Youth" Contest

After several weeks of comments appearing in the "Spotlight the Youth" competition, the final days were full of suspense as two leading contestants, Rachel Payne and Kolton Peterson, moved up and down between first and second place. At the last minute, Kolton became the winner, with Rachel second. Kolton won fifty soft cover books to be compiled by him, published by Zdocs, and sold on Razorpages. He also won an autographed copy of Anne Bradshaw's new book, Please, No Zits! and Other Short Stories for LDS Youth.

Anne has long been an advocate for the youth, having taught many teen classes and enjoyed four teenagers in her own family. She wrote Please, No Zits! and organized the contest because of her love and admiration for this age group, and a desire to help them in some way as they go through the trials of growing up. After writing for the New Era for over sixteen years, she wanted to bring some of the amazing faith-building stories she encountered to life in an exciting fictional form.

"Parables help readers resolve problems in a non-threatening way," Anne says. She hopes her sixteen modern stories will also be read and discussed in family home evenings because they uplift, entertain, and motivate without preaching. As Terri L. Adams said in her review for Bella Online, "It's not so romantic and mushy that (boys) can't enjoy it. I appreciate that Anne's heroes are not wimps. Some make mistakes and struggle with the consequences."

For more reviews, visit www.annebradshaw.com/pleasenozits.html. This book is in independent LDS bookstores around the country and online at www.latter-dayvillage.com. Visit annebradshaw.blogspot.com/search/label/Contest for details of fabulous prizes donated by members of LDStorymakers to all taking part in the Spotlight the Youth contest.

*Book by LDStorymaker Makes YA Choices List

2007-10-22T23:36:00.000-07:00

Fame, Glory, and Other Things On My To-Do List by Janette Rallison is among a field of thirty popular young adult books selected for the 2007 International Reading Association (IRA) Young Adults' Choices list. "This is a great honor for me because it's actually the kids who vote on this award," Rallison says.

The Young Adults' Choices list is an annual project of the International Reading Association. Each year, approximately 4,500 students in grades 7 to 12 throughout the United States read and review books, and vote for their top choices. The votes are tabulated by IRA. Those books with the most votes appear on the annual Young Adults’ Choices list of approximately 30 titles.
The Young Adults’ Choices list is used by teachers, librarians, parents, and students to encourage youth to read.

Janette Rallison is the author of several other nationally released books for young adults, including It’s a Mall World After All, How To Take the Ex out of Ex-Boyfriend, and her latest release, Revenge of the Cheerleaders. Before moving to the national market, she wrote several books for the Latter-day Saint market, both under her own name as well as the name of Sierra St. James.

*Cast Your Votes for the Whitney Awards!

2007-10-19T21:50:00.001-07:00

Cast Your Votes for the Whitney Awards!

It's not too late to vote for your favorite LDS novels of the year!
The Whitney Awards will be officially announced at the LDStorymakers Writers Conference in March 2008, but we need your input today. Please take a few minutes to browse the Whitney Awards site at www.whitneyawards.com--you'll find information explaining who we are and what we hope to accomplish with the Whitneys. Or, if you already know what we're about, head directly to the nomination form to make sure your favorite books are submitted for a Whitney Award.

Fiction by LDS authors has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. Our desire is to encourage and reward that growth by recognizing those authors who entertain, inpsire, and enlighten us.

Visit www.whitneyawards.com for more information.

*Trina Boice, Parties With A Purpose: Exciting Ideas for Ward Activities

2007-10-19T21:24:00.000-07:00

Parties With A Purpose: Exciting Ideas for Ward Activities
by Trina Boice
Spring Creek Books, August 2007

A fun book to help you get your own creative juices flowing while planning ward activities and events. Chapters include cooking for a crows, publicity tips, decoration ideas, games that get people to mix and mingle, ways to keep the kids safe and happy while the adults chat, web site resources, and tons of ideas for party themes and activities all year long!

Readers can purchase books at an author discount at www.boicebox.com.

*Upcoming Release: Leigh Bale, The Healing Place

2007-10-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

The Healing Place
by Leigh Bale
Steeple Hill Love Inspired, December 2007
Inspirational Romance, National Release

Winner of the Golden Heart for Best Inspirational, 2006

A father desperate to save his daughter--Dr. Emma Shields had to help him. Mark Williams had come to the gifted physician to heal his sick little girl. But Emma had suffered her own loss. Driven by the death of her son, Emma was determined to make Mark's daughter well. The devoted single father had come to her in his time of need and she couldn't let him down. Nor could she forget what they'd once shared...Now they faced new challenges. Together could they create a new place of faith, hope and love?

Visit www.LeighBale.com for more information.

*Upcoming Release: Janet Kay Jensen, Don't You Marry the Mormon Boys

2007-10-19T19:47:00.000-07:00

Don't You Marry the Mormon Boys
by Janet Kay Jensen
Cedar Fort, November 2007

When Andy McBride met Louisa Martin, he knew he had found the girl for him. There was only one problem: polygamy--a lifestyle that Louisa could not escape and Andy would not embrace.

As medical students at the University of Utah, Andy and Louisa fall in love--but can a mainstream Mormon man and a woman raised in polygamy overcome the cultural barriers between them? Both realize that their choices will not only affect their own lives, but will also have an impact on their family, friends, and even their communities. Fearing that the sacrifices required of them would be too great, they go their separate ways.

Yet for Andy in Kentucky and Louisa in Utah, life does not go as they'd planned. While Andy is serving as a country doctor and trying to bury his pain, Louisa is coming to terms with the fact that all is not as perfect in her tight-knit community as she'd believed. As doctors, each will have to choose between keeping the peace in their communities or doing what they know is right. And someday, both will have to face their past and decide if they can make the sacrifice to be together.

Set in the red hills of southern Utah, the cosmopolitan center of Salt Lake City, the Smoky Mountains of Kentucky, and the lake-studded country of Finland, Don't You Marry the Mormon Boys is the heartfelt and engaging story about the power of love and acceptance in an ever-changing and often surprising world.

Visit www.janetjensen.com for more details.

*Lee Ann Setzer. Tiny Talks Vol. 8: I Am a Child of God

2007-10-17T08:54:00.000-07:00

Tiny Talks Vol. 8: I Am a Child of God
by Lee Ann Setzer
Cedar Fort, September 2007

The Tiny Talks series provides a talk for every weekly theme in the Primary program: 48 talks in all. Each includes a brief story or talk, a scripture, a suggested visual aid, and a thought question. They are very useful to have on hand in case of those "emergencies," when someone was assigned to give a talk, but everyone forgot! They are also excellent starting points for family home evening sharing time, and even youth talks.

Go to www.leeannsetzer.com for more information.

*Janette Rallison, Revenge of the Cheerleaders

2007-10-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

Revenge of the Cheerleaders
by Janette Rallison
Walker and Company, October 2007
YA romantic comedy, national market

It's pep vs. punk in the ultimate showdown.

To Chelsea certain things in life are worth a little extra effort--perfectly coordinated dance routines for her cheering squad, excellent fashion decisions, and tall, handsome college guys. Disgruntled, wanna be rock stars, like Rick, her younger sister's goth boyfriend, are not. But when Rick makes a fool of Chelsea in front of the whole school with his band's anti-cheerleader lyrics, she's determined to make him pay. All he wants is to win the High School Idol contest, but Chelsea is going to steal Rick's victory out from under him.

The characters from All's Fair in Love, War, and High School are back, only this time it's payback.

Janette's romantic comedies have charmed half a million readers--find out why at www.janetterallison.com !

*Upcoming Release: Sherry Ann Miller, The Refiner's Gift

2007-10-16T11:43:00.001-07:00

The Refiner's Gift
by Sherry Ann Miller
Granite Publishing, December 2007
LDS Inspirational Fiction

Tom Sparkleman confessed to a brutal crime eight years ago and he has been paying the price ever since. Parents shun him and women want nothing to do with him. As Tom agonizes over questions in his mind and heart, he asks the Lord, Am I still a child of God? Is there no miracle in store for me? Then, a raging flood sweeps Tom's tainted world aside . . . setting in motion events that will shape the man Tom is yet to become and he is astounded at just how much the Refiner is truly mindful of him. In The Refiner's Gift, Tom learns God carries each of us during our most difficult trials, while giving us courage and strength to carry the burdens of others.

Watch for a twist of romance, some inspiration, and a pinch of drama all sprinkled over an action/adventure story in this fifth and final installment of the award-winning Gift series.

Visit www.sherryannmiller.com for more information.

*Storymaker Receives League of Utah Writers Certificate

2007-10-16T11:32:00.001-07:00

LDStorymakers have added another award winner to their ranks. Tristi Pinkston received a certificate in the publication category for her historical novel Strength to Endure in the League of Utah Writers 2007 annual contest. Winners were announced in September.

"I wasn't able to attend Roundup, where all the winners were announced," Tristi says. "When the certificate arrived in the mail, I didn't know for sure what it was and had to go online where the winners were listed to figure out what was going on." While Tristi says she'd still like to aim for a Quill or a Diamond, the first and second place prizes, she's delighted with her certificate and feels honored to have received it.

Her novel, Strength to Endure, was published by Granite Publishing in 2004. It has garnered much positive attention from readers and critics alike. Well-researched and historically accurate, the book brings together the political climate of World War II-era Germany and the emotional struggles the people of that nation faced during their darkest hour. "Researching this book wasn't easy," Tristi says. "I did a lot of reading about the concentration camps, and walked around in a gray cloud for months. But I'm pleased with the end result."

Tristi is also the author of Nothing to Regret, a historical novel about the Japanese internment camps. Her four other novels have not yet been published, and she is busily working on her seventh.

*Alison Palmer, Sharing Through Primary Songs: Special Occasions

2007-10-16T11:25:00.000-07:00

Sharing Through Primary Songs: Special Occasions
by Alison Palmer
Cedar Fort, October 2007
Non-Fiction

Combining music and gospel lessons for sharing times Primary children will remember!

Lessons for Christmas, Easter, Mother's Day, Pioneer Day, and many more.

Visit www.cedarfort.com for more information.

*Alison Palmer, Sharing Through Primary Songs: I Am a Child of God

2007-10-16T11:19:00.001-07:00

Sharing Through Primary Songs: I Am a Child of God
by Alison Palmer
Cedar Fort, September 2007
Non-Fiction

Combining music and gospel lessons for sharing times Primary children will remember! New material for the 2008 Primary curriculum.

Visit www.cedarfort.com for more information.

*Traci Hunter Abramson, The Deep End

2007-10-16T11:10:00.000-07:00

The Deep End
by Traci Hunter Abramson
Covenant Communications, August 2007
LDS Suspense

Matt's hands balled in frustration.... He couldn't even acknowledge that he knew the dark-haired beauty down the street--much less that he was married to her.... He had walked into this marriage knowing full well that he would be married to a woman in the Witness Protection Program, and that they would have to spend their first year of marriage pretending they didn't know each other.

But little do CJ and Matt know the extent of the danger and loneliness that will haunt their lives. A world-class swimmer with Olympic aspirations, CJ faces overwhelming odds that threaten to drown all her hopes and dreams. Will the deep end prove to be a dead end for CJ and Matt?

In a story where reality is as tentative as the waters of competition, and happiness is as elusive as the forces of evil that conspire to end all their dreams, CJ and Matt's race for safety becomes a marathon of fear.

In this breathtaking volume, LDS author Traci Hunter Abramson weaves a brilliant tale of suspense and intrigue, a white-knuckle trhiller that is a powerful story of love and commitment--of unwavering and triumphant faith.

Visit www.tracihunterabramson.com for more information.

Shirley Bahlmann, Oddly Enough

2007-08-09T23:12:00.001-07:00

Oddly Enough
by Shirley Bahlmann
Cedar Fort, March 2007

No doubt about it; the olden days were as tough as they were golden. Yet no matter what the age of history, humor softened the lives of those who lived through time. In this collection of true stories from times past, you will find tales both humorous and touching - some will make you laugh, while others will tug at your heart.

An escaped convict gives up his freedom to save a dying woman.
A mangy dog rescues his young master.
A young boy tricks a mob and saves the missionaries.
A flock of geese are forced into hand-knitted sweaters.
A woman hides cinnamon rolls in the radiator.

As these people testified through their examples. life is to be enjoyed, not just endured, and lived, not just survived. In Oddly Enough - Touching and Humorous Stories from the Olden Days, you will find that although times change, the human spirit remains the same, and stories of humor, love, selflessness, and sacrifice transcend the years.

More information at www.shirleybahlmann.com

Shirley Bahlmann, Life Is Like Riding a Unicycle

2007-08-09T23:04:00.000-07:00

Life is like Riding a Unicycle
by Shirley Bahlmann
Spring Creek Books, July 2007

Don't let life's bumps slow you down! Have you ever wanted to try something new but never followed through with it? Have you ever felt like all of your chances are passing you by? No matter what your age, there is always time to accomplish something you have always wanted to do. In this entertaining book are stories of ordinary people who have realized their dreams and accomplished an unusual or significant task and they share how it has improved their lives. From learning new skills such as riding a unicycle to starting a new business, the stories all show that it is never too late to give your dreams a chance. as you read these inspiring true stories, you will be motivated to take that extra step in your own life and achieve great things!

Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do, so throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor, catch the trade winds in your sails, explore, dream, discover. - Mark Twain

More information at: www.shirleybahlmann.com

Rachel Ann Nunes, Flying Home

2007-08-09T23:00:00.000-07:00

Flying Home
by Rachel Ann Nunes
Shadow Mountain, August 2006
National Release

What if everything you ever thought was true about your past, wasn’t true at all?

Liana Winn has always felt like an outsider in her family. As a child she was adopted by relatives after her parents’ plane accident in India, but now that she is as an adult, her disjointed memories—and nightmares—of the past continue to make it impossible for her to bridge the wide gulf she still feels with her adoptive family. She is plagued by questions about her parents’ deaths and wonders if that event is the reason for her inability to form deep personal relationships. Although her adoptive brother Christian has become her greatest friend and supporter, she even had difficulty bonding to him. Needing someone means love, and losing those you love hurts too much.

When Liana meets the successful businessman, Austin Walker, who has risen above his own difficult childhood on a Wyoming farm, she is certain their business will not extend to friendship. Yet she cannot deny their powerful connection and the feeling of hope he offers.

But the ghosts of the past will not rest for Liana, and when she travels to India in search of answers, she makes a shocking discovery at her parents’ gravesite that just might mean the end of everything she’s ever believed.

A satisfying, beautifully-woven story from best-selling author Rachel Ann Nunes.

Visit www.rachelannnunes.com for more information.

Kerry Blair, Ghost of a Chance

2007-07-19T07:22:00.001-07:00

Ghost of a Chance
by Kerry Blair
Covenant Communications, February 2007

"True love is like a ghost. Many people believe in both, but few find either." Samantha Shade has been hired to find out if there is more than rats and bats and feral cats haunting the crumbling remains of San Rafael Mission, home of Father Rodriguez’s impoverished flock. But soon the rookie PI is sidetracked by a series of murders occurring within the parish—and by the attractive police detective involved in that investigation. Several young men have been found murdered—each with a marigold between his lips. The clues all seem to lead to someone at San Rafael. Who could be responsible? Someone Sam used to love? Soon Samantha comes all too close to the answer as she is led through the crypts below San Rafael on a journey that could only end on the Mexican Day of the Dead.

Visit www.kerryblair.com for more information.

Annette Lyon, Spires of Stone

2007-07-19T07:08:00.000-07:00

Spires of Stone
by Annette Lyon
Covenant Communications, September 2007

Coming in September is Spires of Stone, the third title in award-winning Annette Lyon's historical temple series. Three brothers, two sisters. A romantic triangle, plus a tangle of misunderstandings, judgments, presumptions, and life-changing events, all taking place in the shadow of the rising walls of the Salt Lake Temple.

Bethany Hansen wasn't sure when or if she would ever see Benjamin Adams again. She also told herself that it didn't matter. But when Ben and his two brothers come home after more than two years of serving a mission to the Eastern states, her feelings of heartache and anger also return—fiercer than ever. And so do Ben's feelings for her.

Good-naturedly, Ben's brothers attempt to reunite the two, even as they separately vie for Bethany's younger sister, Hannah. What follows is a charming historical romance complete with wonderful characters and witty dialogue that explores the redemption and power of finding—and rediscovering—true love.

Visit www.annettelyon.com for more details.

Stephanie Fowers, Meet Your Match

2007-07-19T07:02:00.000-07:00

Meet Your Match
by Stephanie Fowers

Covenant Communications, September 2007

Girls DO like nice guys, and Jacqueline Childs will prove it, even if it means making a wager…that she’ll do everything to lose.

“It all started with a wager, you know, the kind you get in Chick Flicks and Shakespeare, except this happened in real life.”

Jacqueline Childs has to prove to the President of the Bitter Boy's Club, Britton Sergeant, that girls do NOT like jerks. It means that she has to make her best guy friend, Christian Slade (the epitome of Mr. Nice Guy), look so good that the biggest squirrelly girl in the ward, Charity Frost, can't resist him. If Jacqueline loses, she has to write an article on why girls go for jerks. But now that Jacqueline’s plan is starting to work too well, she is afraid the worst will happen: she’ll win the wager and lose her man to Charity.

For more information, visit www.stephaniefowers.com

"Spotlight the Youth" Contest

2007-07-17T21:11:00.000-07:00

Do you know of a special young person between the ages of 18 and 25? There's a contest going on where you can recognize them for their amazing qualities and compete for prizes for both them and yourself.

LDS author Anne Bradshaw has organized the "Spotlight the Youth" contest, and publishes the entries on her blog at annebradshaw.blogspot.com. "It’s a way of featuring young people out there who are doing fine things with their lives, maybe against all odds—or who love to serve others in some way, large or small—or who have an unusual talent," Bradshaw says.

The deadline for contest entries is August 31, 2007. For complete rules and information, visit annebradshaw.blogspot.com.

Announcing the Whitney Awards

2007-07-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

PROVO, UT—JUNE 18, 2007

WRITING GROUP ANNOUNCES PRESTIGIOUS NEW LDS FICTION AWARD

“We shall yet have Miltons and Shakespeares of our own. . . . In God’s name and by His help we will build up a literature whose tops will touch the heaven, though its foundation may now be low on the earth.”

When Latter-day Saint Apostle Orson F. Whitney first spoke these words, the literary canon of his people didn’t contain many works. Fast forward over a hundred years, and literally thousands of novels are published, enjoyed by readers each year.

The quality of fiction has significantly increased in recent times. New writers are finding it harder to break into the industry each year. This is hard for upstart writers, but great for readers.

While LDStorymakers began several years ago to serve only as a support group and opportunity for networking for LDS writers, it has morphed into a powerful force into LDS market.

Today they unveil their newest project, the brainchild of LDStorymaker and novelist Robison Wells: an annual fiction award named after Orson F. Whitney, honoring his vision of having LDS “Miltons and Shakespeares.”

“The Whitney Award will be given annually in conjunction with the LDStorymaker writing conference each March,” Wells, the author of three novels published through Covenant, explains. “This is an exciting time to be part of the LDS fiction industry, and we hope the Whitney will become a prestigious and sought-after award.”

Anyone can nominate a novel published during the previous calendar year in any of six categories, and a final academy of industry professionals will vote on the final ballot. Nominations are being taken for books published in 2007 by LDS authors at the Whitney Awards website: www.whitneyawards.com

Anne Bradshaw, Please! No Zits

2007-07-17T20:55:00.000-07:00

Please, No Zits! & Other Short Stories for LDS Youth
by Anne Bradshaw
August 2007
Young Adult

How can teens survive the teenage years? Whether it’s finding faith, standing up for truth, or resisting the adversary, they have so many expectations and many paths to choose from that the task can feel overwhelming.

Through sixteen diverse stories in Please, No Zits! & Other Short Stories for LDS Youth, author Anne Bradshaw addresses these and more issues familiar to youth through fiction set in both the U.S. and in Bradshaw’s homeland, England. The result is a contemporary collection of exciting, entertaining, and inspiring stories ranging from high school and dating predicaments to family and mission dilemmas.

This is an ideal gift book for teens. It’s also useful for family home evenings, Sunday family reading, and any situation where a story can help young readers see things from a different, non-threatening angle and at the same time absorb strengthening values.

Visit www.annebradshaw.com for more information.

H. B. Moore, Out of Jerusalem, Volume 4

2007-07-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

Out of Jerusalem: Land of Inheritance, Volume Four

by H.B. Moore

Covenant Communications, September 2007

Land of Inheritance, the final volume of the captivating Out of Jerusalem epic chronicles the lives and loves of the family of Lehi as they struggle to establish themselves in the Promised Land. It is a saga filled with spiritual yearnings, escalating rebellions, tender family relationships—and sibling rivalries that reach frenzied heights of hatred and revenge. Gifted LDS author Heather Moore once again offers her readers a glimpse into the hearts, minds, and spirits of these Book of Mormon pioneers whose choices will forge a legacy destined to influence all of God’s children.

*Also available in unabridged audio version

For more information, please visit the author's website: www.hbmoore.com