Keeping Christmas

GIVEAWAY

WALSH, DAN
KEEPING CHRISTMAS

For the first time since their children were born, empty nesters Judith and Stan Winters spent Thanksgiving without the kids, and it's looking like Christmas will be the same. Judith can't bring herself to even start decorating for the holiday; her kids always hung the first ornaments on the tree, ornaments they had made each year since they were toddlers. Sure they were strange-looking--some could be called downright ugly--but they were tradition. A tradition she's heartbroken to miss this year.

With Judith refusing to decorate the bare spruce tree in their living room, Stan knows something must be done. And his only hope for saving the holiday is found in a box of handmade ornaments.

Fan-favorite Dan Walsh invites readers to enjoy this nostalgic Christmas story that celebrates all of our most cherished seasonal traditions, especially the importance of family. Readers will join in remembering the things that make their own Christmas season so special.

My Review:

In some aspects this was a hard read for me. Judith isn't handling being an empty-nester during the holidays. She's in a blue funk for most of the story and I found the first half the book just plain depressing. Judith is wallowing and Stan is clueless and I pretty much wanted to wash my hands of them both. Of course, that's the problem with depression -- there isn't an easy fix and it affects everyone around you.

Still, there are too many similar scenes illustrating how depressed Judith is. Keeping Christmas is a shorter length novel (215 pages) but I feel like it would make a better novella -- where those scenes could have been tightened up quite a bit, achieving the overall mood without being so oppressive.

I have read most of Dan Walsh's books and been enamoured with them all, but I found this one missing the depth and complexity of his other work. Things don't pick up until well into the second half of the book. Judith begins to discover who she can be outside of a mother and grandmother and takes some steps towards change. Stan gets inspired and plans a Christmas to be remembered and, while the ending is predictable, it definitely redeems the story.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

Please note: giveaway is for a gently read hardback copy of the book.

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of  Keeping Christmas please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday November 21 2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!  

What Follows After

GIVEAWAY

WALSH, DAN
WHAT FOLLOWS AFTER

In 1962, life was simple, the world made sense, and all families were happy. And when they weren't, everyone knew you were supposed to pretend.For the past year, Scott and Gina Harrison have been living a lie. While they show up at family get-togethers in the same car, they've actually been separated for over a year. To keep up the charade, they've even instructed their sons, Colt and Timmy, to lie--to their grandparents, their teachers, and their friends.

Colt, for one, has had enough, so he hatches a plan. He and his little brother will run away from their Florida home, head for their aunt's house in Georgia, and refuse to come home until their parents get back together. But when things go terribly, terribly wrong, Scott and Gina must come to grips with years of neglect and mistrust in order to recover their beloved sons, their love for one another, and their marriage.

In this emotional story, bestselling author Dan Walsh takes you on a journey to rediscover the things that matter most in life--love, truth, and family. With profound insight into the heart of a hurting child, he reminds us that a time will come to look back on hard times and smile, because we'll know that what follows after . . . is not what we expected at all.

My Review:

Walsh knows how to deliver a page-turning read filled with the complexities of life that are all too real. Impeccable pacing drives the delivery of this story at a breakneck speed. Multiple viewpoints enhanced the depth of the read for me; cranked up the suspense, made the romance more poignant, and the inspirational message more powerful.

I devoured What Follows After in a couple of hours. The author's words flow smoothly - sparse where they need to be, but no less descriptive for their brevity. He pulls me in and holds me an emotional hostage until the last word is spent. Love basking in the residual awesomeness of books like this.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of What Follows After please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . to protect yourself from spammers. If you email me, please be sure to put the title in the subject line so it is easier for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday May 4 2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group."

The Dance

GIVEAWAY

WALSH, DAN
SMALLEY, GARY
THE DANCE

Jim Anderson is a successful businessman, and his wife, Marilyn, is the perfect wife. And why wouldn't she be? He gives her everything she needs. That's why Jim never expected to come home one day and find Marilyn gone.

After 27 years of marriage, Marilyn has had enough of feeling unloved and neglected. She wants to experience some measure of happiness before she's too old to enjoy it, even signing up for dance lessons, something Jim would never do. What will it take for Jim to finally become the man Marilyn needs him to be?

Combining the literary talents of bestselling author Dan Walsh and the relationship expertise of bestselling author Gary Smalley, The Dance is the first novel in The Restoration Series. Readers will get caught up in these flawed but sincere members of the Anderson family as they rediscover genuine love and start a transformation that ultimately affects all of them.

My Review:

What a fantastic read! Walsh and Smalley make a great team and give their readers a realistic snapshot of a struggling marriage and the fallout that ensues. There's depth and insight and some really funny moments -- at least they were to me. Poor clueless Jim, not quite sure why Marilyn has left him . Only a man could get away with portraying some of those scenes. A female author would have been accused of stereo-typing.

The authors did a great job of  converting me into a Jim fan. I didn't think it would be possible at the beginning of the book but Jim's conversion into a gentler, softer more spiritual self makes for a moving read. Even as Marilyn stays prickly and defensive almost to the very end. The couples dynamics is dead-on. This could easily be used in a couples therapy course.

The Dance is fiction though, and it makes a rewarding and thought-provoking read. Memorable characters, a tight plot and dashes of humour to break up the angst all contribute to a wonderfully satisfying read.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Dance, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday April 28 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!


"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

The Reunion

GIVEAWAY

WALSH, DAN
THE REUNION

There are people in this world we pass right by without giving a second thought. They are almost invisible. Yet some of them have amazing stories to tell, if we'd only take the time to listen . . . Aaron Miller was an old, worn-out Vietnam vet, a handyman in a trailer park. Forty years prior, he saved the lives of three young men in the field only to come home from the war and lose everything. But God is a master at finding and redeeming the lost things of life. Aaron is about to be found. And the one who finds him just might find the love of his life as well. Expert storyteller Dan Walsh pens a new tale filled with the things his fans have come to love--forgiveness, redemption, love, and that certain bittersweet quality that few authors ever truly master. Fans old and new will find themselves drawn into this latest story about how God cares for everyone.

My Review:

Dan Walsh's words have the power to lift his characters (and subsequently his readers) up from the depths of despair and into the light. The poignant message behind his latest release is inspiring. Be prepared for many goosebump moments as Walsh weaves his magic. And a gentle reader warning: you will need copious amounts of tissues on hand for the triumphant and incredibly moving climax. 

This is the kind of story that would easily translate onto the big screen and would make an amazing Christmas movie. Hallmark Channel, are you listening? The Reunion has touched me in a profound way. God bless the author and his writer's voice!


Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Reunion, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday October 21 2012. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

The Discovery

GIVEAWAY!

WALSH, DAN
THE DISCOVERY

An engrossing story of family secrets and a love for the ages.

When aspiring writer Michael Warner inherits his grandfather's venerable Charleston estate, he settles in to write his first novel. But within the confines of the stately home, he discovers an unpublished manuscript that his grandfather, a literary giant whose novels sold in the millions hidden from everyone -- but which he clearly intended Michael to find. As he delves deep into the exciting tale about spies and sabotage. Michael discovers something that has the power to change not only his future but his past as well.

Laced with suspense and intrigue, The Discovery is a richly woven novel that explores the incredible sacrifices that must be made to forge the love of a lifetime. Author Dan Walsh delivers yet another unique and heartfelt story that will stick with you long after you've turned the last page.

My Review:

I've come to appreciate the way Walsh spins a yarn and this one certainly did not disappoint. He always manages to come at a story with a unique viewpoint and The Discovery stands out as one of my favourites to date.

Love the dual stories that mesh together in a complicated and gripping plot that left me clamouring for more.  Impeccably paced, Walsh builds the suspense until it is impossible to put the book down before reaching the end. But along with the intrigue, which is revealed bit by bit, the story is anchored  with lush descriptions and natural dialogue. A winning combination, for sure!

And the love story(ies)!!! Deep and rich, they provide much fodder for thought. The Discovery will leave a lasting impression -- another book I'd love to see played out on the big screen. All of Walsh's books have been like that for me. Each book has a powerful message big enough to be sustained in a Hollywood script. I sincerely hope he has movie deals in the making, but in the meantime, don't miss out on the print version!

Givewaway Opportunity:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Discovery, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. Please make sure to put the title in your subject line so it's easy for me to spot. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday April 22. Offer open to international readers.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Remembering Christmas

GIVEAWAY!!!!

WALSH, DAN
REMEMBERING CHRISTMAS

Rick Denton lives his life on his terms. He works hard, plays hard, and answers to no one. So when his mother calls begging him to come home after his stepfather has an aneurysm, Rick is more than a little reluctant. What was supposed to be just a couple days helping out at the family bookstore turns into weeks of cashing out old ladies and dealing with the homeless guy who keeps hanging around the store. The one bright spot is the lovely and intriguing young woman who works at his side each day.

As Christmas nears, Rick's old life beckons, the hurts from his past loom large, and the decisions he makes will determine more than just where he spends Christmas Eve.

My Review:

Remembering Christmas is destined to be a holiday classic, I'd love to see this story played out on the big screen! I guarantee it would become an annual favourite. Somebody call Hallmark!

Walsh writes with a measured clarity that evokes images. Vivid, heart-wrenching and definitely heart-warming, the author has penned a story that shows us the powerful difference one constant follower of Christ can make in many lives. Have a Kleenex box handy and be prepared for more than just a few goosebump moments. This is a timeless tale you'll want to immerse yourself in. I read it in one sitting because I simply couldn't stop.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like to win a copy of Remembering Christmas by Dan Walsh leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. Please remember to add the title to the subject line. Offer open internationally. Draw will be held and the winner announced on Sunday November 13. Good luck!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

The Deepest Waters

Walsh, Dan

The Deepest Waters

For John and Laura Foster, what began as a fairytale honeymoon in 1857 aboard the steamship SS Vandervere soon becomes a nightmare. A terrible hurricane strikes and the grand ship is lost in the murky depths of the Atlantic. Laura finds herself rescued with the other women and children, but how can she feel anything but despondent without her groom? Suspecting her John is gone but still daring to hope for a miracle, Laura must face the possibility of life alone.

Talented author Dan Walsh skillfully tells an epic story of hope, faith, and love through an intimate lens. Inspired by real events, this emotional and honest story will capture your heart as you sail through its pages.

WOW!!!

I DEVOURED THIS ONE! STARTED IT YESTERDAY EVENING, WOKE UP THINKING ABOUT IT AT MIDNIGHT SO I READ FOR AN HOUR, WOKE UP AGAIN AT FOUR AND KEPT ON READING. I FINISHED IT AT THE BUS STOP ON MY WAY TO WORK. I HAVE TO CONFESS I WAS MOVED TO TEARS. LUCKILY THERE WAS A STRONG, FRIGID WIND WHIPPING ABOUT AND I USED THAT AS AN EXCUSE FOR MY WATERING EYES AND RUNNY NOSE.

DAN WALSH IS A POWERFUL STORYTELLER. HE GRABS HIS READERS WITH THE FIRST SENTENCE AND DOESN'T LET THEM GO UNTIL THE LAST ONE. I'VE TRIED TO FIGURE OUT WHAT HIS 'FORMULA' IS -- WHY WHAT HE DOES WORKS BUT I'M TOO LOST IN THE STORY TO STOP AND ANALYZE.

I DO KNOW THAT I LOVE THE FLOW OF HIS WORDS -- THE DEEPEST WATERS WOULD MAKE A FANTASTIC READ ALOUD. IT'S RICH TIMING AND CADENCE BEGS TO BE SHARED.

THE FACT THAT THE STORY IS LOOSELY BASED ON A TRUE ONE MAKES IT ALL THE MORE POIGNANT. BUT WALSH'S CHARACTERS REALLY CAPTURED MY HEART, RIGHT DOWN TO THE DOG! (ANYONE WHO KNOWS ME AND HOW MUCH I LOVE DOGS WON'T BE SURPRISED AT THAT!). I, IN FACT, DEVELOPED A BOND WITH MICAH (AND NO, I'M NOT GOING TO TELL YOU A THING ABOUT HIM -- YOU'LL JUST HAVE TO READ THE BOOK!) IN A WAY, MICAH BECAME THE BOOK'S CENTRAL FORCE -- PROPELLING CIRCUMSTANCES AND ACTION IN A SURPRISING WAY. BRILLIANTLY CRAFTED BY WALSH.

THE ONE THING I WILL TAKE AWAY FROM MY READ IS MICAH'S DEVOTION TO GOD AND HIS WILLINGNESS TO REJOICE IN THE MOMENT WHILE NOT BELABORING THE PAST OR AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE. I HAVE BEEN GUILTY ON MORE THAN ONE OCCASION OF BORROWING TROUBLE IN SPADES AND AM LIVING IN THE MIDST OF TURMOIL ON MANY FRONTS IN MY LIFE RIGHT NOW. WALSH HAS BROUGHT ME COMFORT, UNDERSTANDING AND HOPE THROUGH MICAH. AND, ALONG WITH THAT A NEW UNDERSTANDING OF THE WAY GOD ORCHESTRATES OUR LIVES -- IF WE LET HIM.

Reminder: If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Deepest Water by Dan Walsh, leave a comment below. A draw will be held on Sunday April 10 for all the books I read between April 1 - 10. For more information about the Giveaway check out the April Showers Bring Reading Hours blog posted on March 31.

The Unfinished Gift

WALSH, DAN

THE UNFINISHED GIFT

Set at Christmastime in 1943, The Unfinished Gifts in the engaging story of a family in need of forgiveness. With simple grace, it reminds us of the small things that affect powerful change in our hearts -- a young boy's prayers, a shoe box of love letters, and even a half-carved solider, long forgotten. This nostalgic story of reconciliation will touch your heart.

A DEFINITE KLEENEX ALERT NEEDED BEFORE YOU OPEN THIS BOOK AND DELVE INTO AN EMOTIONAL READ THAT EMBRACES THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS. WALSH TELLS HIS STORY FROM MULTIPLE POINTS OF VIEW BUT THE CONTINUITY IS INCREDIBLE. AND HE'S A MASTER AT CREATING AUTHENTIC VOICES WHETHER THEY BE A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD BOY, A DOUR GRANDFATHER, AN ELDERLY ITALIAN NEIGHBOUR, A FIGHTER PILOT, AN EMOTIONAL SOCIAL SERVICES WORKER OR EVEN A DOWN AND OUT AFRICAN AMERICAN. WALSH CAPTURES THEM ALL TO PERFECTION AND THE UNFINISHED GIFT IS DESTINED TO BE A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ANY TIME OF THE YEAR!