This weekend I had the opportunity to read a new book given to me by author Brenda Coulter. Brenda gave away more than 30 books to bloggers in return for reviews. Very cool. At this time, I did not have a blog, but I am never one to pass up a free book, so I started my very own blog. If you never hear from me again after today, you know I ran out of steam, but kept my promise!

Usually, when I pick up a small paper back, I know exactly the kind of book I am getting, and that's okay. I will be able to read it in one sitting, I know the guy will get the girl, or vice versa, and I accept that sometimes it is not the best writing in the world.

A Family Forever had two of the elements I expected, but I was pleasantly surprised with the humor, conversation and characters in this nicely paced and multi-dimensional read. I felt the heart break and hopefulness of the characters instead of just reading that I should be heart broken or hopeful. The characters are Christians, but not perfect. I almost felt that if this were a couple you met at church and went out to lunch and you got to talking about how they got together, this is the story they would tell. (At least the big parts of it.)

I do recommend this book for the entertaining and fun read that it is. I found myself smiling a lot while reading this book and know that many of you out there will enjoy it as well.

Brenda's blog is also fun to check everyday, so after you go to amazon to buy her book, you can read her daily installment while you wait for the mailman. (Links below)

A FAMILY FOREVER

By Brenda Coulter

From Steeple Hill Love Inspired

Look for it in stores after February 28

Order now from amazon.com

Read most of the first chapter at BrendaCoulter.com

Visit Brenda's blog, No rules. Just Write.

PS. I also read Brenda's first book this weekend, Finding Hope, which is a great debut novel.

I recently read on another blog (can't remember which, but Brenda's blog has everyone linked that reviewed) that they had hoped to find A Family Forever less formulaic. Brenda replied something to the effect that this is the best writing she is capable of ... Well, I for one, found her novels to be a tad less formulaic than most in this genre and I would love to see her try a chick lit or a fun mystery, as well as more inspirational romances. Her humorous style and believable dialogue would be a good fit for other genres and I can see her only improve in her writing. Whatever she writes, I know I want to see more from Brenda.