Book Review of An Aussie Summer Christmas

An Aussie Summer Christmas 

Blurb

Melbourne Memories by USA Today bestselling author Marion Ueckermann 
Escaping his dangerous past, former British rock star Justin “The Phoenix” Taylor flees to Australia. Intrigued by the bearded stranger visiting her coffee shop, Ella Anderson decides to discover his secrets. But when Justin’s past collides with their future, Ella must decide whether they have a future at all. 

Next Door Santa by USA Today bestselling author Lacy Williams 
Will Harris is proud of his no-complications life. So why is he drawn to his upstairs neighbor, who seems obsessed with Christmas? Can Bridie soften Will-the-Scrooge’s heart in time for Christmas? 

Seaside Christmas by Narelle Atkins 
Political advisor and former bad boy Gus Donovan is intrigued by Chelsea Somers, the girl he didn’t call after their one and only date, six years ago. Chelsea is impressed by the new Gus, but can she trust him with her family secrets ... and with her heart? 

A Christmas Resolution by Rose Dee 
Breeah has avoided returning to her Australian coastal hometown of Kiisay Point for ten years—avoided the mistake that changed her life, ruined her friendships, and soured her first love. She’s never returned to Resolution, the island where it all happened. But now she’s back, and having to face up to the childhood she loved, the man she can’t forget, and the future that won’t start until she lets it all go. 

All is Bright by Andrea Grigg 
Amy’s always been a good Christian girl…except for being in love with her brother-in-law. Josh is looking for love again, surprised to find it with his late wife’s sister. But will a mountain of guilt and an unexpected letter stop them from making it to the altar? 

Falling for Maddie Grace by Meredith Resce 
Australia’s first professional female football umpire, Maddie Grace, gets knocked out in an on-field accident, crushed beneath the weight of an athletic sports star. What is it about the visual images that has the media making up stories of a secret love affair? Escaping the paparazzi is one thing, but escaping each other is quite another.

My Review

I really enjoyed this box set. Each story is different but has the Aussie connection and a beach connection.

Melbourne Memories by USA Today bestselling author Marion Ueckermann 

This is the first book and I have to say I wasn't sure how I would like this book as Justin was a rock star and its not my sort of hero but I actually really liked the story. It shows how a chance meeting when someone has hit rock bottom can help change a life. Justin ends up in Australia where he comes in contact with Ella who wants to learn his secrets not knowing how it may affect her. I really loved the way it showed how Justin turns his life around and his wanting to make amends for his past. 

Next Door Santa by USA Today bestselling author Lacy Williams 

I love Bridie, I think I like her cos shes has a job I would love. She is full of life although she has had plenty of heartache in her life. Will on the other hand seems to be more focused on working and not doing much else. We see an incident happen in which the two will be brought together and then need to work together. I enjoyed the story and learning both stories of why they are how they are. It also teaches not to judge by appearances as there is often more to a story than one thinks. 

Seaside Christmas by Narelle Atkins 
In this book we see Chelsea and Gus meet up again after 6 years. Chelsea wonders if Gus really has changed or if its just an act. She is also still grieving the passing of her sister. She has also told her father she will never reveal some of the details to her sisters death. She also wonders if she can handle someone who is in the political arena. I enjoyed their story and seeing how it unfolded. 

A Christmas Resolution by Rose Dee 
Breeah has returned home after the passing of her uncle. She hasn't been back for 10 years and wants to avoid some people. She made a mistake 10 years ago and still feels guilty. This story deals a lot with forgiveness and not just of others but of yourself. In many ways I felt like Breeah found herself in this book along with reconnecting with a former friend.


All is Bright by Andrea Grigg 
Amy feels she is bad because she loves her brother in law, she has loved him for a long time but knew he was off limits and never acted on the feelings or told anyone, she would never to that to her sister. Even with her sister gone for many years she still hasn't told anyone. Josh gets a letter from his late wife which changes everything between them. I actually found this book refreshingly in the way it showed Amy and her feelings and how she struggled with them. 

Falling for Maddie Grace by Meredith Resce 
Now here is a story I can appreciate. While I love cricket more I am an AFL fan. Maddie Grace is a umpire who has the misfortune of being knocked out by a star Zac. The media have a field day with this as Zac is also referred to as the Rev due to studying ministry and being squeaky clean. They know each other from years back when her father was the coach of Zac's team but nothing more. Seeing this story play out was interesting. Once again another good read.

ACRBA Tour Ehvah After by Rose Dee

1 - 5 August 2016

Australian Christian Readers Blog Alliance

is Introducing

Ehvah After

( August 25, 2015)

By Rose Dee

About the Book:

Ehvah Rowe’s life is in freefall. Her teen queen status is long forgotten, and with a childhood of tragic loss, no family save a diabolical aunt, and no career prospects, her L.A. celebrity world holds no future.
It will take a murder, an escape to the Australian tropics, and the friendship of an Aussie bodyguard, for her to discover healing, faith, and a way forward.

David Blake knows how to be a soldier. His army training equipped him to fight and protect. But when it comes to helping a fear-filled celebrity navigate the same post-traumatic stress symptoms he has suffered, David discovers the challenge in forsaking his own strength for God’s plan.

Rose Dee weaves a story of mystery, drama and romance, in her trademark tropical North Queensland Australian style.

About the Author:

Rose Dee was born in Ingham, North Queensland, Australia. Her childhood experiences growing up in a small beach community would later provide inspiration for her first novel. Rose, who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, decided to try her hand at writing two years ago. The result of that attempt is her first novel, Back to Resolution. Her novels are inspired by the love of her coastal home and desire to produce exciting and contemporary stories of faith for women. Rose's other releases include Beyond Resolution - the second book in the 'Resolution' series. And A New Resolution the final book in the series. Rose has also co-written a novel in conjunction with three other outstanding Australian Authors: The Greenfield Legacy. Rose resides in Mackay, North Queensland with her husband, young son, and mischievous pup, Noodle.

ACRBA Tour A New Resolution by Rose Dee with Giveaway

2 - 6 December 2013

Australian Christian Readers Blog Alliance

is Introducing 

A New Resolution

( Even Before Publishers Oct 2012)

By Rose Dee

About the Book:

Resolution Island is a safe haven for Anika Demeur - a chance to fulfil dreams, find her place in the world, and a new life for her and young son, Kye. But her dreams of a future are shattered when her son's security is challenged, and the rich and privileged Texan, Nate Hollingsworth sails into the bay. Now Ani must not only fight for her son, but also a growing attraction she has to the one type of man she loathes.

Nate is on a mission - to fulfill his mother's last wish, and change his life. Dropping anchor in the idyllic Resolution harbor, he didn't anticipate becoming involved in illegal fishing, a murder, or an unexpected attraction to the most exasperating woman he has ever met.

The Australian tropical Island, Resolution, sets the scene again for adventures, dreams, and new beginnings. A New Resolution is the final book in the 'Resolution' trilogy, following Back to Resolution and Beyond Resolution.

About the Author:

Rose Dee was born in Ingham, North Queensland, Australia. Her childhood experiences growing up in a small beach community would later provide inspiration for her first novel. Rose, who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, decided to try her hand at writing two years ago. The result of that attempt is her first novel, Back to Resolution. Her novels are inspired by the love of her coastal home and desire to produce exciting and contemporary stories of faith for women. Rose's other releases include Beyond Resolution - the second book in the 'Resolution' series. And A New Resolution  the final book in the series. Rose has also co-written a novel in conjunction with three other outstanding Australian Authors: The Greenfield Legacy. Rose resides in Mackay, North Queensland with her husband, young son, and mischievous pup, Noodle.

Giveaway:

For all ACRBA members who post the will get an entry into this giveaway. All who leave a comment on any blogs will get an entry into the giveaway. The more blogs you comment on the more entries. This giveaway is open to Australian readers. To enter you need to answer a question about what part of North Queensland you would like to see or leave a comment with a question for Rose. Comments saying sounds interesting enter me will not be equate to an entry. Also leave a way to contact you if you win for example myemail at mymail dot com. entries open til Thursday 12 Dec.

FIRST PRIZE:

E-Reader (Details below) AND: an e-reader version of each one of my 4 novels – the 3 ‘Resolution’ series novels, and The Greenfield Legacy (gifted via email).

E-Reader:

Reader™ with 6.0" paper-like touch screen (Red)

Model:

PRST2RC

This slim and light Reader with touch screen puts thousands of your favourite stories at your fingertips. Effortlessly turn the page with a swipe of your finger and the glare-free screen reads just like a real book, even under direct sunlight.

•         6" E-Ink® Pearl is designed to feel like a real book with a glare-free paper-like screen for reading

•         Battery life of up to 2 months with wireless off and up to 1.5 months with wireless on. Up to 30,000 continuous page turns when reading only

•         Let your friends and family know what you are reading and share excerpts up to 140 characters with Facebook® built into the Reader™

•         Store posts, articles, and text-based webpages all in your Reader™ with Evernote’s integrated services

•         Access public library eBooks and PDF files through the integrated OverDrive® service

•         eBook purchases will need to be completed via computer

SECOND PRIZE:

A copy of ‘The Greenfield Legacy’, and a Silver and Amber Grapevine inspired pendant. Really pretty, and ties in nicely with TGL as it is set on a vineyard in the McLaren Vale region. Also the cover is pendant inspired.

THIRD PRIZE:

A personalised sign copy of each books in my ‘Resolution’ Series. 3 hard copy books in total. 

ACRBA Tour The Greenfield Legacy by Rose Dee, Amanda Deed, Meredith Resce and Paula Vince

4 - 8 February, 2013

Australian Christian Readers Blog Alliance

is introducing

The Greenfield Legacy

(Even Before Publishing October 2012)

by

 Rose Dee, Amanda Deed, Meredith Resce and Paula Vince

 Available from Light the Dark With a contest which ends
14 February 2013. 

About the Book:

Mattie was in love with Billy, but she was too young to wed. When Billy was conscripted to fight in Vietnam, they made a decision that affected their lives and their future. But so much pain resulted that Mattie never really healed. Every turn Mattie made affected her daughter and her granddaughter in ways she didn't even realise. But forty-six years later, is it time for things to be set right?

Navy is a young woman who has never known her family. But what could be a wonderful opportunity is met with jealousy and apprehension from her cousin Brooke and her aunt Connie, especially with handsome Aidan around. Each must look past their struggles and find forgiveness and trust and perhaps even love.

This absorbing family drama, set in South Australia's beautiful McLaren Vale wine region, is written by four of Australia's outstanding Christian fiction authors who have brought you best-selling and award-winning novels.

About the Authors

Left to Right: Rose, Meredith, Paula, Amanda. 

Award winning Australian author, PAULA VINCE, loves to evoke tears and laughter through writing fiction. She has a passion to provide inspiring stories that highlight her own beautiful country.http://www.appleleafbooks.com

ROSE DEE was born in Ingham, North Queensland, Australia. Her childhood experiences growing up in a small beach community would later provide inspiration for her first novel. Rose, who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, decided to try her hand at writing two years ago. The result of that attempt is her first novel, 'Back to Resolution'. Her novels are inspired by the love of her coastal home and desire to produce exciting and contemporary stories of faith for women. 'Beyond Resolution', and ‘A New Resolution’ are the second and third books in the 'Resolution' series. Rose resides in Mackay, North Queensland with her husband, young son, and mischievous pup, Noodle. http://rosedee.com

AMANDA DEED grew up in the South Eastern suburbs of Melbourne in a Christian home, and found faith at an early age. She has followed her passion to serve the Lord through music and literature since her teen years. Now married, with three children, Amanda enjoys the variety of being a mother, finance administrator, musician and historical romance writer. Her debut novel, The Game, won the 2010 CALEB Prize for fiction, and Ellenvale Gold was a finalist for the same prize in 2012.http://www.amandadeed.com.au

South Australian Author, MEREDITH RESCE, has been writing since 1991, and has had books in the Australian market since 1997. Following the Australian success of her “Heart of Green Valley” series, an English Publisher has taken the first three books in this series, and has released them to the British and American markets. ‘The Greenfield Legacy’ is her 15th novel published. Apart from writing, Meredith also takes the opportunity to speak to groups on issues relevant to relationships and emotional and spiritual growth. Meredith has also been co-writer and co-producer in the 2007 feature film production, “Twin Rivers”. With her husband, Nick, Meredith has worked in the ministry since 1983. Meredith and Nick have one daughter and two sons.

My Review:
Thanks to Rose Dee for my copy of this book.

I did enjoy this book and found it interesting with 4 different main characters that are all from the one family. We have Mattie the Matriarch of the family and we find out in Chapter one she gave up a child for adoption. The story then revolves round this issue and how it affected the various members. We have Connie who is Mattie's Daughter and Brooke her daughter. We also meet Navy Who is also related. Each character is written by a different author and there is a contest to work out who wrote which character, while this is a fun contest I did find at times it distracted me as I was trying to work out who wrote what part. I would personally have rather known who wrote what part and not be thinking about who wrote who. The book is like a novella in many ways except its happening at the same time. We go from one character to another and see the story through different eyes. 
While I really enjoyed the story and the more I got into it the more I loved it I did have one issue with the early part. There are a couple of instances of swearing which shocked me and I thought were totally unnecessary. I honestly don't expect bad language in a christian book and was disappointed. It wasn't enough for me to put the book down as it was early one and only 2 or 3 times (and one was more cussing which others may not be offended by). I say this just as a warning to some of my friends who also do not like bad language. being forewarned is a help. It is this reason I can not give the book 5 stars but it is a 4 - 4.5 star book in my view. 

ACRBA Blog Tour Back to Resolution by Rose Dee

3 - 7 December

Australian Christian Readers Blog Alliance 

is introducing 

Back To Resolution

(Even  Before Publishing November 2012)

by Rose Dee

Available from Light the dark this week for $12.95 

About the Author:

Rose Dee

Rose Dee was born in Ingham, North Queensland, Australia. Her childhood experiences growing up in a small beach community would later provide inspiration for her first novel.

Rose, who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, decided to try her hand at writing two years ago. The result of that attempt is her first novel, 'Back to Resolution'. 

Her novels are inspired by the love of her coastal home and desire to produce exciting and contemporary stories of faith for women.

Rose’s other releases include, 'Beyond Resolution' - the second book in the 'Resolution' series. And ‘A New Resolution’ – the final book in the series.

Rose has also co-written a novel in conjunction with three other outstanding Australian Authors; ‘The Greenfield Legacy’.

Rose resides in Mackay, North Queensland with her husband, young son, and mischievous pup, Noodle.

Book Description:

Back to Resolution

Bay Anders is lost. She enjoys every privilege a wealthy upbringing affords, but the void in her soul refuses to be filled.
Her mother's dying revelation drives Bay to the brink of self destruction, before a move to Australia changes everything. She embarks upon a search for her father that leads her to his island home, into a hazardous melting pot of hostile locals and a mystery – her father's disappearance.
The only person who can help her is a strong, selfassured and intensely magnetic man. Bay must fight an overwhelming attraction to stay focused on her goal.

Flynn McKenna is hiding from the world. A past filled with mistakes drove him to withdraw from society and live in seclusion. But the arrival of a woman he cannot avoid
shatters his solitary existence. As the search for Bay's father unites them, can he resist his desire for her?
It becomes a race against time as developers try to take over the island.

From the glittering streets of LA, to the beautiful
Daintree forest in North Queensland, to the idyllic island `Resolution', Back to Resolution is a romantic mystery that shows how far a little faith can go.

Website - http://rosedee.com/

My Review can be found here

Book review Beyond Resolution by Rose Dee

Book description:

Samara lives a life filled with fear. After being discarded and beaten by her trouble making boyfriend, she takes one easy out after another. Her choices lead her down the road of self-destruction, into the degrading world of stripping and a life spent looking over her shoulder. Until an encounter with a stranger on a Kings Cross Street provides the catalyst for a life changing event that leads her back home.

Resolution is the last place in the world Jed wants to be. One drastic decision has led him to the Island resort and back into strained contact with his brother, Flynn.

From the bright lights of Sydney to the blue waters of Resolution Island,Beyond Resolution is a story that provides a window into the joy of forgiveness, trust and peace.

My Review:

I read book one last year and was eagerly awaiting this book. I liked this book even more than book one. The book starts out with Samara living in Sydney and a worldly life which had her basically out in the cold. The start is edgier than some Christian Fiction but in saying this it is needed and still clean but you get the feel of what Samara is feeling and living. What happens to her and how a meeting with a stranger change her life is very believable and interesting to see. There is also mystery in this book and light suspense which follow Samara when she returns home. The one person she isn't expecting to see is Jed, Flynn's brother. They have a history in Brisbane till something goes wrong. Jed blames Samara for alot of things that in reality were not all her fault. Jed has his own demons he needs to work out. 

Even after Samara returns home there still seems to be things happening from her past and the mystery kept me wondering what would happen next. I went to bed having read 25% of the book intending to just read one more chapter. 2 am I finished the book as I just could not put it down. Rose had me hooked from the beginning and the longer the book went the more I was pulled in. 

This book deals with issues such as forgiveness both of others and ones self, acceptance of what has happened in the past and accepting responsibility for the issues. Also dealing with the consequences of ones actions and dealing with them. This book is definitely in my top reads of this year. Great Aussie Drama.

Getting to know you Thursdays with Rose Dee and giveaway

Today please welcome Rose Dee to my blog. Rose's debut book Back to Resolution came out the end of last year and her sequel will be out around April. I have gotten to know Rose over the past few months and have enjoyed our chats. I am really looking forward to her second book. For all my readers outside of Australia Rose's book is available at amazon and on kindle. It is a really good read and you will learn more about Northern Queensland.

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Well, I grew up at Forrest Beach, which is just outside Ingham, North Queensland.  During my short 38years I have managed to achieve a Bachelor Degree, work in several places around Australia, marry, and have one son (now five). I grew up in a Christian environment, but realised that there is a big difference between knowing your parent’s faith and having a personal relationship with God. It was only after I asked Him what He had for my life that I was led to write.

2. When you were a child did you have a favourite book or books?

I was only recently reminded of this. My sister gave me our old set of ‘Value Books’. It was an obscure set of children’s stories (American) someone talked my father into buying when we were children.’ The value of believing in yourself – the story of Nellie Bly’ was evidently my favourite, because as a child I had written my name all over the inside cover. For those that don’t know her – Nellie was a reporter (writer) that highlighted injustice. I look back now and see that, even at a young age, I was drawn to writing.  (Jenny here, I haven't heard of the Value books but found them under value tales. sounds interesting)

3. Do you have a favourite Genre to both read and right write?

If I had to pick a favourite I would have to say anything romantically orientated. That includes contemporary stories, as well as historic – I love both. I write contemporary because I want to show how the Lord can work in lives now. I want to appeal to women who are finding their way and have my stories say – ‘See- you’re not alone.’ 

4. Did you have favourite authors growing up who have influenced you?

Charlotte Bronte – Jane Eyre is my absolute favourite novel of all time. Hopeless romantic I am. But I have always seen so much more in this classic. The story shows that when you are obedient and trust in the Lord, He will give you so much more than you ever imagined. I love it. Every few years I re-read it.  

5. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

I used to write stories for my classmates at primary school. ‘The adventures of Hamburger and Hot Dog’ were quite well received. I think I lost sight of that and was channelled more into drama – which I also loved. But it was only two years ago when I asked the Lord what He wanted me to do that writing came to me. (Jenny again wonder if they were hungry children, sounds interesting. I am glad God has lead you in the direction you now are writing).


6. How did you go about becoming an author?

I honestly think it was the right time for me. I actually didn’t set out to be an author as such. I set out to see if I could write something, and to see if the stories in my head would translate onto paper. Apart from my Arts degree (majoring in English) I didn’t have any prior qualifications. I sat down to write as raw as they come. The only advice I could ever recall was ‘write what you know’. So I did that. I wrote what I knew and what I loved, and I think that shone through in my story. I also wrote for myself. ‘Back to Resolution’ is a story I want to read – and I still do – multiple reads later I still get absolute pleasure out of all the stories I have written. The thought that others will enjoy it is a huge bonus. 

7. If you were not a writer what would you like to be?

I love being a wife and mother. They are two of the hardest jobs in the world. But I also have a ‘day job’ that I will not give up. I look after all the book keeping and office duties for our business. Accounting and numbers don’t come naturally to me, but I work hard and love the job because it is a support and help to my husband. We have build something together and that is of primary importance to me. 

8. Outside reading and writing what do you like to do?

I just love a lazy day. The idea that there is nothing on the agenda is an absolute delight to me. Outside that pleasure, we love to be on the water. Walking on the beach, fishing, running around aimlessly in a tinny, it’s all good. I also love to spend time with my husband. After twelve years together he is still incredibly stimulating conversation. 

9. Do you have a place you love to visit or would love to visit?

The beach. I feel a raw instinctual need to be near the water. Maybe it’s because I grew up on the beach front, but whenever I’m away from it for too long I get a bit stir crazy. I guess it’s just how I’ve been made.

As for where I’d love to visit? America. We went several years ago and I’d love to go back. We didn’t have one bad experience there. I’d love to do it again. (Jenny again I want to go back to America and Canada again right this moment Hawaii!)

10. If you could have a meal with 3 living people who would you choose and why?

My husband – (see above stimulating conversation), Jimmy Buffett (because we’re Parrotheads and I think he would have some great stories to tell), and Oprah (a little obvious I know – but the very last words she said on her show were – to God be the glory. How cool was that!)

Finally can you tell us about your current books and/or any that will
be coming out soon. Also where we can find you on the web.

‘Back to Resolution’ is available now from www.koorong.com.au, www.evenbeforepublishing.com.au www.amazon.com and other stockists. (see my blog: www.rosedee.com for links)

‘Beyond Resolution’ is due for release mid next year. It is the second in the Resolution series. I have a real soft spot for this story – it’s kind of special.

The third and final Resolution story is still in editing stages.

You can find me at: www.rosedee.com 

Bay Anders is lost. She enjoys every privilege a wealthy upbringing affords, but the void in her soul refuses to be filled. Her mother's dying revelation drives Bay to the brink of self destruction, before a move to Australia changes everything. She embarks upon a search for her father that leads her to his island home, into a hazardous melting pot of hostile locals and a mystery – her father's disappearance. The only person who can help her is a strong, self-assured and intensely magnetic man. Bay must fight an overwhelming attraction to stay focused on her goal.
Flynn McKenna is hiding from the world. A past filled with mistakes drove him to withdraw from society and live in seclusion. But the arrival of a woman he cannot avoid shatters his solitary existence. As the search for Bay's father unites them, can he resist his desire for her? 

Rose has kindly offered a copy of her book Back to Resolution to one reader of my blog. you can fill in the form. You can also leave a comment to for Rose to read in the comments (as no one but myself sees the entry form.)

Book Review Back to Resolution by Rose Dee

Book Description:
Bay Anders is lost. She enjoys every privilege a wealthy upbringing affords, but the void in her soul refuses to be filled. Her mother's dying revelation drives Bay to the brink of self destruction, before a move to Australia changes everything. She embarks upon a search for her father that leads her to his island home, into a hazardous melting pot of hostile locals and a mystery – her father's disappearance. The only person who can help her is a strong, self-assured and intensely magnetic man. Bay must fight an overwhelming attraction to stay focused on her goal.
Flynn McKenna is hiding from the world. A past filled with mistakes drove him to withdraw from society and live in seclusion. But the arrival of a woman he cannot avoid shatters his solitary existence. As the search for Bay's father unites them, can he resist his desire for her? 


My Review:
I was sent this book by the author to read and review. I am so glad I had a chance to read this book. Its Rose's debut novel and a very good read. The story is about Bay Anders who is looking for something, her mother has died and finds her father is alive after being told he died after she was born. The journey takes her to Queensland and finds her father loves on a island of the North Queensland coast. Here she meets Flynn who works for her father but keeps to himself. She also fines her father is missing. The story talks about Bays journey from a life of privilege to a remote island and how she adjusts to what life throws at her. Bay is much stronger and down to earth woman than most give her credit for. While searching for her father she learns more about her life and what matters most. This book deals with several issues including finding yourself, forgiveness, perceptions to name a few. This is a good book that I didn't want to put down and am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series. I actually told the author I didn't want to say goodbye to the charters and she told me there will be another book.