Collecting Book

Women's Fiction Admired for Heart-Wrenching Plot

Title: In the Context of Love

Author: Linda K. Sienkiewicz
Genre: Women’s Fiction, Contemporary, Romance
ISBN: 1941523048
Where people can purchase the book: Amazon http://amzn.to/1IiVWEs or Barnes and Noble http://bit.ly/1QFs340
Reviewer’s Rating: 5 Stars out of 5

Reviewed by Daria Anne Giovanni, originally for Amazon

In In the Context of Love, hope springs eternal even under the worst of circumstances. Once I started, I simply couldn't put this book down as I followed its main character Angelica through a complicated personal journey of spiritual, emotional, and physical maturity. The author's vibrant descriptions of complex characters, adolescent longings, Midwestern winters, social mores, and cultural traditions underscored a heart-wrenching plot centered around flawed humanity and the unintended consequences of well-intentioned decisions. Without giving away spoilers, the story hinges upon a horrific event from the past which, once discovered by the protagonist, shatters everything she thought she knew and understood about her family and romantic relationships. Its ripple effect on other characters weaves a compelling tale that will keep you guessing until the end. Kudos to the author for keeping hope alive, balancing good and bad with relatable characters, and abstaining from the temptation to paint an entire sex as evil because of the despicable crimes of one individual. In The Context of Love will leave you feeling as if love always finds a way to prevail, no matter how difficult the obstacles.

More about the Author:
Linda K. Sienkiewicz attributes her creative drive to her artistic mother, who taught her to sew, and her father, who let her monkey around with the gadgets in his workshop. Her poetry, short stories and art have been published in more than fifty literary journals. She has a poetry chapbook award from Bottom Dog Press and an MFA from The University of Southern Maine. In the Context of Love is her debut novel.

Website: lindaksienkiewicz.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LindaKSienkwicz
Facebook: facebook.com/linda.k.sienkiewicz

More about the Reviewer:

Daria Anne DiGiovanni owns and manages the Writestream Radio Network and Writestream Publishing, LLC. A talented interviewer, she welcomes diverse authors to her radio shows to share their books and insights with listeners. DiGiovanni released her debut novel Water Signs: A Story of Love and Renewal, in 2008. The second edition is due out in January, 2016, with a sequel to follow.

Website: dariadigiovanni.com/

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Reviewer Gives Women's Fiction 10+ Stars

Title: Flowers in the Snow (Betty's Book)
The Edenville Series Book 1

Author: Danielle Stewart

Website: http://www.authordaniellestewart.com/index.html

Genre: Literature & Fiction, Sagas, Women’s Fiction

ISBN #: B00SN3EZKW

Reviewer's Rating: 5 star

Where people can purchase the book: http://www.amazon.com/Danielle-Stewart/e/B00CCOYB3O/ref=la_B00CCOYB3O_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1448993305&sr=1-2

Reviewed by Tracey Quintin originally for Goodreads

Danielle Stewart remains my #1 and on my pedestal as she ALWAYS delivers an outstanding read and this read is 10+ stars! I could not put this book down, was captured from the cover on. WOW.

Betty's story takes us back to a time where unlikely friendships are born and love exists through courage, strength and determination to stand up for what is right during the turbulent civil rights times when discrimination was rampant. My eyes fill with tears as I write this because NO one should have to endure what the main characters in this story did. I laughed, I cried, I was happy, I was angry, I was sad, I was every emotion possible in reading this amazing story.

Danielle writes in such a skillfully mastered way that she delivers a brilliant historically woven read that captures your heart, breaks your heart and puts your heart back together again. You understand what makes the characters WHO they are. What an eye opener for me of events that truly happened back in those times.

I personally think everyone should read this story. If you lived it, it may help you heal. If you weren't aware, it will open your eyes towards the injustice that was done.

Bravo Danielle for tackling a very difficult subject with such finesse. What an absolute GEM of a read. I can only imagine the emotions that Danielle went through in writing this beautifully crafted work. Outstanding and can't wait for more!

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Danielle Stewart connections:

Website: http://www.authordaniellestewart.com/index.html

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDanielleStewart/?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DStewartauthor

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7256452.Danielle_Stewart?from_search=true&search_version=service

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Danielle-Stewart/e/B00CCOYB3O/ref=la_B00CCOYB3O_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1448993305&sr=1-2

ABOUT THE REVIEWER

Tracey Quintin connections:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LOVEBOOKSWITHROMANCE/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ReadingIsOurPas

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/19886187-tracey-quintin

Interview: Women's Fiction Writer Skartsiaris Shares Secrets

Hi! I am Carolyn Howard Johnson, your trusty New Book Review blogger and author of the multi award-winning HowTo Do It Frugally Series of books for writers. This blog has heretofore been exclusive for reviews but I thought I’d do a special series of interviews after I chatted with Jeanie Loiacono, President of Loiacono Literary Agency – Where ‘can’t’ is not in our vocabulary! I thought sharing the interviews would help the many subscribers and visitors to this New Book Review blog, including authors, reviewers, and, of course, readers who just might find a new favorite author among the featured books and authors.

So, today welcome Jeanne Skartsiaris.

When not writing Jeanne Skartsiaris also works as a Sonographer. Prior to that she was a medical/legal photographer for a plaintiff’s law firm. She attended creative writing courses at Southern Methodist University and is a member of Romance Writers of America’s local chapter, Dallas Area Romance Authors. Also the author of Surviving Life and Snow Globe. She lives in Dallas, Texas.

What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Young adult and women's fiction
What made you want to be a writer? To quell the voices in my head.
Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? There are so many! Jodi Picoult, Pat Conroy, David Sedaris.
What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I let the characters move the story forward. I'd like to do more outlining, but the characters usually do whatever they want no matter how hard I try to control them.
Do you write every day? How much? How long? No. I work full time. My weekends are my busy writing time. Although if inspired, usually while driving or walking, I'll jot down ideas.
Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? YES! Writing is a craft and it opens the reader to another world or life. If you're a storyteller then you enjoy stories. End of story. J
What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Write. Read. Learn the art of slashing, not horror but editing. A writer opens their soul a little when creating a character and it's hard to take criticism and rejection. You need a tough hide. Never give up.
Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? As I'm still not on a bestseller list, no. I'm trying to learn better marketing skills.
Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? Yes. The resources a writer can get from a conference can be invaluable. I've been to book signings where I've not sold anything, but I've made important connections. I'm also a member of Romance Writers of America and have learned much from authors there.
Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? My YA books are available on Amazon and in a local specialty bookstore in Dallas. I've just gotten them into a Dallas library—Surviving Life and Snow Globe. I'm hoping my women's fiction novel, Dance Like You Mean It, is acquired 2016. www.jeanneskartsiaris.com http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/jeanne-skartsiaris/

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENTS

Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Melissa Carrigee Melissa.C@llallc.net http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/drake-vaughn/ Agent, Marketing and Publicity – Melissa Carrigee

Facebook Melissa Carrigee Covers Melissa Carrigee Book Trailers

Carrigee Graphic Art Contract Template

Reading and writing is a way of life for Melissa Carrigee. As a literary agent and award winning graphic artist, she combines her two passions of business and writing. She has published works in newspapers and magazines as well as a published novel. Featured Columnist for The Family Forum, Parents and Kids Magazine – Mississippi Gulf Coast.

I want a horror book to read all night long while I check behind the doors for the boogey man. I’m looking for a thriller that keeps me reading and guessing (and just when I think I’ve figured it out, I’m wrong). I’m looking for children’s books that engage the parent and the child. I’m looking for young adult novels – but NOT Twilight and not wizards. That’s been done. I’m looking for any story with a great plot. Something I can sit and read in a few days with characters that make me think about them long after I’ve finished the book.

Genres: horror, science fiction, historical fiction, commercial fiction, mysteries, thrillers, dramas, historical romance, children’s (picture and mid-grade)—any book that has a great story with unforgettable characters.

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency - A facilitator of dreams, Jeanie Loiacono represents over eighty authors. Her forte is mystery, romance, thrillers, historical/military/southern fiction, and all quality fiction/nonfiction. Her passion is to see her authors succeed.

“There is nothing more rewarding than to hold one of my author’s books and know I helped bring it to fruition. I am so blessed and privileged to be able to work with some of the most talented writers in the world.” Jeanie.L@llallc.net www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE INTERVIEWS--TO FIND GREAT READING OR TO NETWORK WITH AUTHORS--PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG. YOU ARE A WELCOME ADDITION TO THIS FAMILY WHO LOVES BOOKS! YOU'LL FIND A WINDOW TO DO THIS AT THE TOP OF THIS BLOG PAGE.

Reviewer Tracey Quintin Calls Fiction Emotionally Provoking

Title: Bittersweet

Author: K.S. Thomas

Website: http://www.ksthomas.net

Genre: Literature & Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Fantasy, Magical Realism, Inspirational, Romance, Women’s Fiction,

ISBN #: B00TPBIC3M

Reviewer's Rating: 5 star

Where people can purchase the book: http://www.amazon.com/K.S.-Thomas/e/B00HQWTA10/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

Reviewed by Tracey Quintin originally for Goodreads

What an OUTSTANDING EMOTIONAL, COULDN'T PUT DOWN, PAGE TURNING read. I was hooked from Chapter 1 on. I completely fell in love with Esi and Carter and was so emotionally invested in this "grab boxes of Kleenex" story.

Truly touched my heart and soul. Esi and Carter are absolute soul mates and have a love and connection like no other.

Their story didn't just tug my heart strings, I seriously fell in love with these characters. I felt everything going on and had a HUGE lump in my throat throughout most of the story until I HAD to let the tears just fall. If I wasn't in a public setting I'm sure I would have cried my eyes out...THAT'S how emotion provoking it was for me. THESE ARE MY FAVORITE TYPES OF STORIES!

So beautifully written, K.S. Thomas did an incredible job. This is the first book I've read from this author and I REALLY hope she has written more of this type. Outstanding and can't wait to read more of her work. I very highly recommend reading this. It is a story that will stay in my heart forever.

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

K. S. Thomas connections:

Website: http://www.ksthomas.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friedgatortail/?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/friedgatortail

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/332809.K_S_Thomas?from_search=true&search_version=service

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/K.S.-Thomas/e/B00HQWTA10/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

Tracey Quintin Writes Review from the Heart

Title: The Goodbye Storm (Rough Waters Series Book 1)

Author: Danielle Stewart

Website: http://authordaniellestewart.com/

Genre: Women's Fiction

ISBN #: B013JBK7EA

Reviewer's Rating: 5 star

Where people can purchase the book: http://www.amazon.com/Danielle-Stewart/e/B00CCOYB3O/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1447617982&sr=1-2-ent

Reviewed by Tracey Quintin originally for Goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1373973417

Danielle Stewart ALWAYS delivers and never ceases to amaze me! This is such a heartfelt and emotionally charged story that I felt such a strong personal connection to, not for the actual events, but rather the emotions when I needed it most. I'm having a hard time putting my thoughts down here to let all know what this story means without giving away any of the storyline.

Absolutely brilliantly written and this story shows that EVERY person handles life's trials and tribulations unique to that individual - we ALL handle things differently and that is okay, we are entitled to our own feelings. What Danielle delivers not only in this story but EVERY story she has written is a strong message of HOPE! Such a strong and incredible message for ALL to know exists...HOPE...

There was a particular scene in this story that I felt was written directly to ME, now THAT'S a connection! I keep thinking about it over and over...it means so much and it's true! (Sorry no giving away anything).

I absolutely highly recommend this book to everyone. OUTSTANDING read Danielle!

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Danielle Stewart connections:

Website: http://authordaniellestewart.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDanielleStewart/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DStewartauthor

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7256452

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Danielle-Stewart/e/B00CCOYB3O/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1447618648&sr=8-2-ent

LA Reviewer Craves More in Contemporary Fiction Series

Title: Roadmaps for the Sexually Challenged [All’s Not Fair in Love or War]

Author: Marlan Warren

Website: http://roadmapsforthesexuallychallenged.blogspot.com

Where to buy (Kindle E-Book Only): http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TYKV5ZG

Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction

ASIN: B00TYKV5ZG

Publisher: Roadmap Girl Publications

Reviewed by Barbara Tira originally for L.A. Now and Then blog

When I found "Roadmaps," I put down the best-seller-turned-movie I was reading at the time, so I could savor Ms. Warren's story until the very end. As a longtime Los Angeleno, I was immediately drawn back into the lifestyle, loves, and struggles in the expansive, diverse, and incomparable Los Angeles of 20 years ago, the likes of which is just a memory today. But whose emotions, challenges, and successes remain Universal.

This novel/memoir is for anyone who has ever known the epitome of joy and the profound depths of despair. For those who have loved passionately, and for those whose hearts have been trampled to shreds. For those who have found, or for those who are still seeking the strength and spirit to rise again.

I eagerly await the sequel! I want more!!!!!

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.