GIVEAWAY and review of debut novel, Yesterday's Tomorrow by Catherine West.

I met Cathy West about three years ago through ACFW when we landed in the same critique group. Immediately, I loved Cathy's writing style. She was in the middle of writing a story that took place during the Vietnam War and I always looked forward to the next installment to critique. Our crit group eventually broke up, but I've kept in touch with Cathy. I am thrilled to announce that this book, Yesterday's Tomorrow, came out yesterday, which means that TODAY is yesterday's tomorrow (groan...couldn't resist). Anyway, it was a long time coming for Cathy but I always knew it would be published one day. As a friend and former crit partner, I am SO proud of her!

Okay...enough gushing and on to the goods. Cathy has offered to give a copy of her book to one lucky winner. To enter, simply leave a comment on this post.

About the book:

Yesterday’s Tomorrow

It’s 1967 and Kristin Taylor wants to go to Vietnam to report on the war, and honor her father’s memory by becoming an award-winning journalist like he was. But no editor will send her. So she strikes out on her own and steps into a world more terrifying than she’d imagined.

As she encounters the horrors of war, Kristin struggles to report the truth while desperately trying to keep tabs on her only brother who enlisted some time ago, but both tasks seem impossible.

When she meets photographer Luke Maddox, Kristin knows she’s found a story. The mystery beneath his brooding eyes triggers her curiosity. She’s convinced he’s hiding something and determines to discover his secrets. The only trouble is, he won’t let her within three feet of him.

In an unexpected twist, Kristin and Luke are forced to work together. With war raging all around them, they engage in their own tumultuous battle of emotions. Headstrong and willing to risk it all for what they believe in, they’ll do whatever it takes to fulfill their own private agendas. Kristin is after a story that might get her the Pulitzer. Luke wants retribution from the enemy that took away his family. In the face of death, Kristin and Luke must decide if they’re willing to set aside selfish ambition for the love that seems to have ambushed them and captured their hearts.

MY REVIEW:

You already know I love it, but let me tell you why. As mentioned, Cathy's writing style is easy and so relatable. She has an incredible sense of humor, which shines through, especially in the dialogue between her hero and heroine, Kristin and Luke. Their banter caused me to laugh out loud and relieved the tension from the harsh reality of war.

That said, there were several dark moments, too. Her portrayal of the Vietnam War - often avoided in fiction - was realistic and raw. It was never glorified, but gave the men and women who served the credit they deserve. Some of the issues covered include orphans, racism, equality for women, temptation and sin's consequences, and the aforementioned traumatic effects of war.

The story was captivating and provided a few surprises along the way. I kept picturing the book as a movie - definite possibilities there. The love story between Kristin and Luke was tender and will satisfy the biggest romance fan, but it also contains enough suspense and action for other audiences.

This book is labeled as contemporary fiction but is borderline historical. I personally consider it historical because it was just before I was born. :-) My belief is that this story will appeal to you whether your preference is historical or contemporary. The writing is fresh, original, and engaging...and that's all that really matters!

Yesterday's Tomorrow is Cathy's debut novel. I anxiously await her next. And to think I knew her  when...

Leave a comment to be automatically entered to win a copy of Yesterday's Tomorrow. I'll randomly select and announce the winner next WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22. Don't forget to include your email address so I can get in touch with you. Good luck!

**Contest disclaimer: Void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents. Odds of winning depend on number of entrants.**


________________________________________________

Educated in Bermuda, England and Canada, Catherine holds a degree in English from the University of Toronto. When she’s not at the computer working on her next story, you can find her taking her Border Collie for long walks or tending to her roses and orchids. Catherine and her husband live on the beautiful island of Bermuda, with their two college-aged children. Catherine is a member of Romance Writers of America, and American Christian Fiction Writers, and is a founding member of International Christian Fiction Writers. 


Cathy's Website: http://www.catherinejwest.com/

Oak Tara Website: http://www.oaktara.com/