"Learning" by Karen Kingsbury

It would be easy to identify one of my favorite authors by a peek at our bookshelves. Well-loved writer Karen Kingsbury takes up her own section! :-) I was introduced to Karen's "Redemption" series back in 2006 and have been an avid reader and follower ever since.

Karen is an inspirational author who tackles real issues with real faith. The stories of her characters come to life in such a way that readers are convinced that we know these people in our everyday lives. They are living, breathing friends whom we meet for coffee dates and see each week at church, right? You can't convince her fans otherwise. I personally think I grew up next door to the Baxter family, which would be quite a feat considering how often I moved during those years. ;-)

The newest release in the Baxter family dramas, #2 in the Bailey Flanigan series, comes out one week from today. Even though "Learning" will not be available until June 21, I already had the privilege of reading it through Team KK, a program Karen put together which sends advanced copies to those willing to read and review them before release. Somehow I was selected out of the hundreds of fans who jumped at the chance to apply last month and I was SO thrilled!! I practically held a stake-out at the post office waiting for that exciting package to arrive. :-) Reading it was a joy and I felt it was a great chapter in the lives of Bailey, Cody, their friends and family. I loved it!! I thought the title could not have been more appropriate and that there was much growth in the character's lives as we traveled the pages together.

For those up to date with Karen's novels, I recommend a trip to the bookstore on June 21st to pick up "Learning" -- or even better I suggest pre-ordering it so that you don't have to worry about forgetting :-) If you've never read anything by Karen, or you have but aren't familiar with the Baxter family, I'd encourage you to begin with her "Redemption" series. That's where "Learning"'s journey started and I wouldn't want you to miss any of the adventures along the way!

You can see the "Learning" book trailer at this link. And don't forget to check out Karen's Facebook page where readers gather to talk with Karen, ask and answer questions, share prayer requests and make friends with other fans. Karen refers to it as her virtual living room and it's a fun place to hang around. :-) It would be great to see you over there! :-)