I'm Giving Away a Copy of Bridge of Scarlet Leaves by Kristina McMorris
***Update! A winner has been chosen at random. Congratulations, Katrina!***
Today, I’m giving away a copy of the lovely, lovely author Kristina McMorris‘ new book, Bridge of Scarlet Leaves! Not only did I adore this book, but I adore its author. I had a chance to meet her in Portland for my reading at Powell’s, and then I got to see her again in Seattle for an event at Third Place Books, where Kristina read from her new book and hosted a panel where two Japanese-American internees shared their story about life in internment camps during World War II and told such touching, memorable stories!
Here’s more about the book:
Los Angeles, 1941. Violinist Maddie Kern’s life seemed destined to unfold with the predictable elegance of a Bach concerto. Then she fell in love with Lane Moritomo. Her brother’s best friend, Lane is the handsome, ambitious son of Japanese immigrants. Maddie was prepared for disapproval from their families, but when Pearl Harbor is bombed the day after she and Lane elope, the full force of their decision becomes apparent. In the eyes of a fearful nation, Lane is no longer just an outsider, but an enemy.
When her husband is interned at a war relocation camp, Maddie follows, sacrificing her Juilliard ambitions. Behind barbed wire, tension simmers and the line between patriot and traitor blurs. As Maddie strives for the hard-won acceptance of her new family, Lane risks everything to prove his allegiance to America, at tremendous cost.
Skillfully capturing one of the most controversial episodes in recent American history, Kristina McMorris draws readers into a novel filled with triumphs and heartbreaking loss–an authentic, moving testament to love, forgiveness, and the enduring music of the human spirit.
You can order the book here, here, and here.
And, to enter to win a copy of this book, plus a few other treats from Kristina, just leave a comment here answering this question: What’s your favorite time period to read about in novels? Present? Past? A favorite decade? Why?
Bonnie
I mostly like to read present day. I’s almost like watching tv to see how much current day things like technology are being used.
I love your books Sarah.
Charlotte Scott
I would love a copy of anything that comes with your recommendation 🙂
Beth Turner
I am guessing .. that if you are recommending Kristina McMorris as an author that her books are of the same high calibre of yours!!!
Love the overview of the book, so even if I don’t win a free book – it’s on my buy list!!
Thanks!
StoriesAndSweetPotatoes
I love to read about any time period in history because I’m not…historical, so I always learn something. I’ve heard great things about this book, very intrigued 🙂
Grace Tomlinson
I’d love to have a copy of a book from an up and coming author!
Katrina
What’s your favorite time period to read about in novels? Present? Past? A favorite decade? Why?
It really depends on the subject matter! Ever since I read Sarah’s Key a few years ago, I’ve started liking novels that switch between present and historical events. I’m a huge fan of Holocaust fiction (Sarah’s Key and the Kommendant’s Wife are two of my favorites) but I absolutely love Michelle Moran’s books. Anything she writes is amazing. I know it may sound macabre but I also love anything with a grim tale like Erik Larson’s The Devil in the White City. So, if there’s mystery to it, I will read almost any time period!
Girl Parker
My favorite time period is World War I. It changed the whole playing field and never fails to be interesting. As a kid, I loved the last of the Anne of Green Gables series because it took her daughter through that time period — probably my first brush with historical fiction.
Lynette Rachelle
I love everything about the 40’s! The music, the clothes, the hair, the patriotism, it’s all great! It is by far my favorite decade! I love stories about the 40’s in movies and books, fact and fiction!
Andi
I love historical fiction. I find Henry VIII & all his ladies very interesting, even though there is so much adultery involved. I just picked up Becoming Marie Antoinette & I’m looking forward to reading that as well.
The Bridge of Scarlet Leaves looks like a wonderful book. Thanks so much for the giveaway! 🙂
Courtney Petzold
My favorite time period to read about is the future. I love to read about what other people predict the future will be about, whether it be realistic or fantasy. Other people’s perceptions of the world are so interesting, and many authors can share the details so vividly with readers.
Kim
I love historical fiction. I don’t have a specific time period that I like, I just like any time period in which rich characters portray a story that I can learn from, and relate to in some way. I’ve enjoyed other centuries, including early America and Native American historical fiction. I love the premise of this book. I immediately thought, “what would I do?, would I forsake my family to go behind the wire, in the camp?. Sounds very powerful. Thanks for sponsoring this, Sarah!
Tara
I love anything historical, but I’m especially fond of the WWII era as well as the 19th century. WWII settings let me imagine life as my grandparents had lived. The 19th century… well, it started a long, long time ago when I was little and discovered Laura Ingalls Wilder. 🙂
Carroll Hudson
I am a history buff and I love historical fiction. My favorite era is probably the Edwardian time period. I am obsessed with Downton Abbey and the Titanic. But I also love World War II because my interest in history was piqued listening to my grandfather who was stationed at Pearl Harbor right before the attack and then served as an army medic in the European theatre of the war. This book sounds like it would bring some interesting ideas to the forefront as far as the perspective of the Japanese Americans.
Susan Schleicher
I am not really a history buff but I am facinated with the WW2 era. Especially stories having to do with the Jewish people. The stories of what they did to try to stay alive are amazing.
Thanks for this great giveaway – this story sounds very interesting.
Walterine Lukeman
I like to read about the past. To me it is interesting to see how things once were and then to try and compare the situation as to how it may be taken in today’s times. I have recently taken a huge interest in digging up my ancestry. I have found some roots of some of my family that trace back to England and when they came to Canada. And it is interesting to see how the past was and the major changes that have happened to our lives since then. It is good to have. Ovels around like this. Even if it is fiction, it still gives a history lesson of sorts. 🙂
Anita
I’d love to win a copy of this book. I’m fascinated by books set in the 1940’s. I think because it’s when my parents were young and married. In the middle of WWII they married and believed in America and what my dad was fighting for.
Corinna Starr
I always love to find a good, new author. And to get a copy before it reaches here in Australia would be awesome 🙂
margaret churcher
I just love losing myself in a good book, it would be lovely to win this.
Becky Thein
Now that sounds like a book I would enjoy reading. So, I will have to add it to my list of books I need to buy. When your next book is released I’ll pick that one up at the same time.
Marion
My favourite time period is actually WWII, and having been the last person on earth to read Snow Falling on Cedars( 2 books ago), this books theme appeals to me very much indeed.
Karyn
I love anything that spans at least two generations and any time in the past, although I’m not averse to a book that moves back and forth from past to present. My favorite time period? Turn of the Century … 19th to 20th century that is 🙂
Erin Rom
Hi Sarah! I love your book give aways even though I haven’t won one yet I will continue to try because I like your taste in books. Have a wonderful day!
Melissa Kreuser
Let’s see…I don’t know that I have a favorite “time period” to read about. I think it’s the author that makes it a good time period to place a book in. What I DO love is books that switch back and forth between a time in the past and the present, like a “now and then” chapter by chapter thing. And I’m with the other readers: any book recommended by you is one I HAVE to read! Sooooo hoping I win 🙂
Robbie Alba-Estrada
Id love to win a copy!
Heather Martinez
I like many different time periods. Depends on my mood. Present day seems to be the majority of what I read, but I LOVE books set in past times too. Especially 1800s. And turn of the century. And the 20s. I like the 50s-60s in small doses. Feel like its been “done” too often and am pickier about those books.
Have heard good things about BRIDGE…
Ann-Marie
Just added this book to my wishlist. Loved your books and hope this one is half as good! If you recommend it… I’ll read it:)
Rhonda Wagoner
LOVE your books. Would be wonderful to get a free copy! You are truly a super-mom! Keep up the good work!
Kim W.
Oh wow, this book sounds fantastic!!!! I love anything from the ’40’s to the 80’s to current day.
Ann-Marie
Oh…and I love ready books that take place in the past, especially during WWI and WWII. I am a hopeless romantic and love history!
Rhonda Wagoner
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE all your books. A free one would be fantastic. I think you are a supermom. You are actually living the dream I had for myself almost 40 years ago. You go girl!
Kristi Fleming
I love the 40 – 70’s. I great time in our nation and love the whole complexity that each generation had to endure to make their dreams come true. Despite the many struggles, lives were full of loss, war, romance and the will to survive.
Megan M.
I’m always looking for ARCS and new (free books) to read and recommend! I’m a huge advocate for anything you right, (Sarah), so if you’re recommending this, it has to be awesome! #LiveLoveLearn
Robyn
came across your books through the Being5 blog. Love them! If this giveaway is something you recommend then I am sure I’d love it as well.
Kim
I LOVE reading books set in the 40’s during the war–I don’t really know why I am so drawn to that era, but I think it has something to do with how that generation put on their big kid pants, and survived! They did what needed to be done, lived with less and hardship and never gave up!
*smiles*
Melissa Nichols
I love reading books that are based in the 40’s and 50’s. I sometimes feel like I should have been born in that time. I love the outfits, music and the way everyone talked. Especially the polka dot dresses and everyone wore hats and said things like,”Oh gee whiz”. I also like how everything seemed so innocent and brand new back then. I have read several books in that time period and I realized it’s one of my favorites 🙂 If you recommended this book, it must mean it’s a great read! If I don’t win, I will for sure have to put it on my list of books I’m going to read. (Your books are always on the top of that list). I can’t wait for your new book to come out!
Harmonie Keene
I would love any book that comes with your recommendation! How nice of you to promote your friend’s book 🙂
Runa Nakayama
wow…can’t imagine all the drama! my parents had to date in secret for 3 years because the company didn’t allowed my dad to date any other girls (just japaneses) during his time working in Chile. (1965’s)
as you can see, love won the battle!
’40 time is very special for me because my dad was a kid during that war, my uncle who was 15 at that time died because a bomb that destroyed their house…so both themes are related a little bit with my family’s past…I hope I can win this book!
Beth Turner
I love the 1910 – 1950 era history. Kristina, Sarah’s Key was an awesome book for sure .. and excellent read! Also a big fan of Francine River’s who does some great historical, family heritage stuff.
Hoping and praying I can win the book … there seem like a lot of deserving bloggers here though … so the best of luck to all!
Carol
Present day for being able to relate to things or 1800s, for the feel of a slower, somewhat simpler way of living. I think the latter started in my childhood with the Little House books and Anne of Green Gables (which went into the early 1900s). Also love the Jane Austen time period for the feel of it.
Bonnie K
It’s hard to say what my favorite time period is. I love historical fiction. I think the subject matter and the writer is the biggest influence. I’d love to win a copy of this book. I love finding new authors.
Tiffany
I am always looking for a good new book, and with your recommendation too!!
I love books that flip from present to past. That way its up to date with now, but you also get a little history lesson too. Anything that can capture you….thats my kind of book!
Thanks for the oppportunity.
Holli Guin
My new favorite decade to read about is WW2 era, Japan. The stories are fascinating to me because you get a different perspective on how life was for them at in-that time. And my grandfather-in-law is a veteran from that war. He is 96 years old. You, Sara, & Kristin Hannah, & Diane Chamberlain are my 3 favorite authors! Once you pick up a book from 1 of these authors you have your day or evening cut out for you of reading.
Leanna Morris
I like historical fiction….especially Civil War era and the early pioneer days of the USA, but I do enjoy about any time period.
judy L.
I love reading books about the past, no specific time period, just interested in what people had to do to survive in their everyday lives. I especially enjoyed reading “Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett and of course, “The Bungalow”. This book sounds great and thanks for the giveway!
Amy
I love reading pretty much anything that is good, whether it’s present day or in a different time period. I’ve really been getting into WWII period pieces here lately.
Jayme P
If you are recommending, I am sure it is a fantastic book. I always enjoy giveaways! I love reading books from this time period, sounds like a fantastic read.
Jodi Ferris
How wonderful of you to recommend another author to us, Sarah Jio. I know that I was introduced to your books by Jodi Picoult, so now I am thrilled you are continuing the circle. I love reading. That said, historical fiction in general is a favorite genre, and I mist admit that I am especially fond of WWII writings. However, any well crafted book of any time period is always welcome here. Even if I don’t win a copy of this book, I am glad to receive the great recommendation.
Nancy H
I don’t have a favorite time period. I just enjoy reading a good book, so it doesn’t matter to me the ‘when’ as much.
Sharon
I like contemporary usually but if reading historical fiction..then 1800s and up.
Holocaust setting is too depressing to read
Barb H
I enjoy all good books; but am a particular fan of early 1900’s novels. And thank you for the recommendation, even if i am too late to win this novel. It will be on my list of “must reads” when I go to a library or book store.
Susan Bishop
i’d love to win a copy of this book!
Amanda Prim
The time period is not a factor for me overall, but I like those that have a memory series that has both past and present. I absolutely adore your writing and look forward to anything you recommend!! Can’t wait for Blackberry Winter by the way!!! 🙂
Karen
I like to read good literature it doesn’t matter what time period as long as it is well written. Right now I am reading Trigiani’s book The Shoemaker’s Daughter that took place at the turn of the century.
Martina D
I really enjoy reading World War II novels or novels set in the 40s; in any setting; I used to like WW II novels based in Germany but since I read the Bungalow I’ve become more interested in other WW II settings so I’d love to read this book ! I also like reading books set at the fall of the British Raj or the beginning of Indian independence.
Debbie Atchison
I’ve always loved historical fiction, although the time period doesn’t matter as long as the subject matter and the style of writing are appealing. Kristina McMorris’ new book sounds intriguing and with this recommendation, I know I would enjoy it!
Andrya Wallace
I have come to love historical fiction since I read The Violets of March. I just find stories that take place in the past, particularly during a time of war, so very interesting. I have a feeling that I will love Kristina’s book as much as I have loved yours. I would love to win!
Angi Magnanti
I would love to have the chance to read this book! I so loved “Violets of March” and am looking forward to many more books written by you! 🙂
rhonda
Love to discover new authors.thanks. for giveaway.
Kathryn
Anything you have recommended I’ve enjoyed. Historical fiction is my favorite genre of book. Thank you for offering the giveaway!
Wendi
I’m definitely reading this one, whether I win it or not. Sounds fascinating.
Anays Cartagena
While I love reading about ANY time period, I have a slight secret obsession with the 20’s through the 50’s. Growing up listening to my grandfather and parents listen to music and watch movies from these time periods, I naturally grew an appreciation for the cultures then. Historical fiction is such a beautiful place to go when reading. My mind takes me to different worlds that I wish I could live for just a day, just to see what it was like.
Jodi led me to you, Sarah. and I’m already on the Jio bandwagon with bells on! 🙂 So, it’s without a doubt that I’d love to get this recommendation. Some of the best books I’ve read in life have been just that — a token from a friend.
Happy reading! Thanks!
Effie Smith
My favorite time to read is Anytime. Anytime I have a few minutes my nose is in a book. Love to read almost anything fiction. Love my romance though.
Logan Collins
I would say now, present, but then I also love your books Sarah and they are set back in the day. It’s interesting because I usually won’t pick up a book that is historical because I feel like I can’t relate to the characters. However, your characters are amazing!! I can’t wait for your next book
Lisa
I go through different time periods-all depending on the mood I’m in. I like historical fiction (1800’s), WWII, and current day. I read Kristina’s book Letters From Home, and absolutely loved it. I’m sure this one will be just as moving!!!
Cari Glenn
I have many time periods that I love, here are just a few: Civil War, American Revolution, 1800’s (think massive immigration to USA), and during ancient history (think Red Tent). I enjoy reading during time periods that shaped a nation or a group of people. I love books written in time periods that involve the bravery in making life better.
Jen
I definitely tend to gravitate towards historical fiction. I’ve been reading Edna Ferber and am very much enjoying her writing from the 1920s-30s. It seems I’ve been reading quite a bit from the 1940s as well so this book sounds like something I’d really like.
Amber See
I’m a fan of historical fiction. Historical fiction combines everything that I love in a good book…reading, a little bit of history, and then overall a wonderful story! Thanks for another great book suggestion!
Margaret
I am a history buff so I honestly love all time periods but I guess my favorite is Ancient Egypt. There is so much mystery about them we still do not know. Thanks for the giveaway!
Margaret
singitm(at)hotmail(dot)com
Erika Jenkins
Hi Sarah! I can’t wait to read the book written by your friend. It sounds wonderful!
Desiree Coleman
I love historical fiction in general, though I’m not super picky about the time period. Reading is my way of travel and escape and it fascinates me to learn about the differences of each time period and how others survived through them. I would love to win a copy of this book!
Tammy
Love to mix it up! Historical fiction is fun, but current stuff is so…current!
Kathy from Texas
I love reading about the past. It helps me to learn a more personal side of another time in history.
I would love to win the book.
Thanks
Sherilyn
I enjoy reading about the present time, but I LOVE reading about places that I’ve been as well, then time period doesn’t matter as much. If the characters are eating in a cafe that I’ve been too, it’s awesome to be able to say, “I’ve been there!”
Becky
Wow this sounds really good! I’d love to win the copy.
I actually think my favorite time period to read about is WWII – I don’t know if I would have said that a few years ago, but I’m realizing all the WWII veterans are slowly passing away and I’m sad the future generations won’t get to experience hearing their stories. I guess part of me thinks I need to soak up as much as possible to pass on.
Maureen M
I find it interesting when novels take place in the present but have flashbacks to the past. I enjoyed this aspect of Violets of March along with its tribute to the fabulous 40s!
Gina Beirne
I would love to read this. My favorite time period to read about is the present, but I do like historical fiction set during World War II.
Erin
Most definitely the present.
Erin
Oh, and what Logan said as to the reason why as well as the caveat! 🙂
Heidi
I love reading in all time periods and all sorts of genres. I just don’t feel right unless I am half way into a book!
Robin
I love any historical fiction but I particularly like novels set in England in the middle ages.
gail
i like past, present and future! just depends on the author…lately i’ve been reading a lot of future dystopic novels
Dandy
Oops, I originally responded on goodreads!
Erin G
I like books from any time period – as long as it’s a good read, I’m in!
Deb smith
Would love to read this new book!
Gwyn
I read mostly historicals set anywhere from the Dark ages to the Victorian Era. Why? The strict social mores give heroines yet another obstacle, and I cheer their efforts to overcome without ostracizing themselves.
Jessica Alison
I love reading books in all different time periods…. I especially love books that take place over multiple decades or have two parallel stories where one takes place in the past and one during present day. Also, right now I am drawn to books that take place during WWII (the most recent one I read was The Baker’s Daughter by Sarah McCoy and it was incredible!!).
Tina Hall
I am fast becoming a fan of the WWII era. I never gave it much thought until I read Ellen Baker’s books. Then she led me to Kristina McMorris. I recently got a new job and one of my coworkers also writes WWII stories and he actually dresses the part of a WWII pilot when he does his book talks, etc. He led me to Sarah Sundin who also writes amazing WWII books. Sooooo I am vastly interested in more. My mom was born one month after Pearl Harbor and my dad the following September. They never talked about their childhoods. These stories give me some idea of what it was like.
Laura K. Smith
How nice of you to give away Kristina McMorris’ new book, Bridge of Scarlet Leaves, and to support your friend, and how lucky for one of us!
I love reading literature from a variety of time periods: Civil War, WWII, the 1950’s and so forth; I think some of the fascination is in trying to imagine times that I never got to experience. If I had to choose just one though, it would be the Regency Period. “The Regency period lasted from 1811 until 1820, the time during which Jane Austen’s novels were published, and so it is the period assigned to her writings. ” I find myself laughing and crying when I re-read Jane Austen’s books, and sympathizing and even empathizing with different characters during different re-reads. I enjoy literature that stirs my emotions, and I just love fancifully thinking about the clothing and settings of the Regency period.
Thank you so much for your giveaway! Take care!
Julie Bohannon
Very nice to see one author supporting another!
I like reading stories from this time period.
And a free book, how fun. 😀
tessa s
I like the world wars, the 20s. I like the clothes, and architecture. Seem mysterious. Would love to win! Need something to read until your next book! 🙂
Elizabeth
I think it’s fun to read books that take place in the 1980s – it brings me back to when I was growing up.
I love to discover new authors. Thanks for the chance to win!
Joyce Best
The title of the book alone would draw me to reading it. Always up for an author I haven’t read before.
Michelle B
I’ve been enjoying books from the pre-World War I era a lot lately. Thanks for the giveaway!
Beth Turner
So who was the lucky reader????
Tammy
Sarah, I think I would read anything you suggested lol. What a beautiful cover!!!!
Tammy
I like books that cover past and present. i love the discovery of days gone by and I think the two can be blended very well. i have read some fantastic stories in which an old diary or journal has been found and it changes the life of the person in the present. such fun!!!
Judy
My friend Kristi Fleming read this book and says it is amazing, so would love to win a copy.