Reviews, Commentaries, Interviews

One Step Over The Border by Stephen Bly Center Street/Hachette Book Group USA released June 12, 2007 One Step Over The Border rated #2 on Technorati (http://technorati.com/pop/books/) on July 18, 2007, making it the 2nd most blogged book on the internet that day, behind #1 (Harry Potter, of course). Our deepest thanks to all the bloggers who made this possible, many of whom are listed below . . . . It’s a romp. A buddy road adventure. Some call it CowboyLit. It’s all about Hap Bowman and his jaunt along the Rio Grande with roping partner, Laramie Majors, to find Juanita, a mystery senorita he hasn’t seen in eighteen years . . . Here’s what folks are saying about it . . . . ******* REVIEWS ******* I read it in one sitting. I thoroughly enjoyed the tongue-in-cheek humor and a couple of cowboys that I swear I've met behind the bucking chutes at the rodeo. The ladies will enjoy the comedy / romance of the "search for Juanita" and the guys will enjoy the shenanigans of Hap and Laramie. This one is easy to recommend. Terry Burns, author of the Mysterious Ways Series of River Oak and literary agent, Hartline Agency, http://www.terryburns.net/Cowboy_Musings.htm#border One Step Over The Border was a delicious book to read. . . It is a warm hearted and thrilling adventure . . . It is life’s ancient quest to fulfill the desire to find the perfect girl and live happily ever after. A brilliant story by a sensitive writer. Once read, never forgotten! . . . an awesome, uplifting adventure. Charlie Steel, Tale-Weaver Extraordinaire, western author of Fight For Wet Springs and other stories. I found One Step Over The Border to be a highly entertaining journey to places from my own experience. Your vivid descriptions of small town bars, service stations, trailer parks, rodeos and endless highway struck a most familiar chord of my upbringing on the Western plains. Your characters are well-drawn and likeable. We all have our “Juanitas”, whether they be persons, goals, riches or other dreams of what will fulfill us and make us happy . . . Thanks for a great read. Pete Peterson, member of Western Writers of America, author of The Relentless Gun, Reckoning at Raindance and A Dark Trail Winding If you don't pay close attention, you might just slide over some of the subtle witticisms that make this book stand out. The banter between two good friends is worthy of old western movies when the language and plots were still clean. Stephen Bly doesn't hit you over the head with theology either, but if you miss God in this book, you must have your eyes closed. . . wish I had another three or four chapters to go, because I just wasn't ready to leave these wonderful characters. Donita K. Paul, award winning author of The DragonKeeper Chronicles, www.donitakpaul.com One Step Over the Border by Stephen Bly is a surprising good read! I'm not a fan of westerns or cowboys, so when I first read the description of this book, I was a bit hesitant to read it, but I'm certainly glad I did. This book redeems cowboys from the Brokeback Mountain curse! . . . Hap and Laramie's exchanges are stellar, and the humorous situations they fall into a hoot. Bly evokes the simplicity of the cowboy lifestyle while gently teaching that life is less about the destination than about the journey. . . Hap learns that the pursuit of his quest may cost him what he values most. This book put a smile on my face every time I picked it up. Christina Lockstein, Oconto Falls, Wisconsin, Christy's Book Blog, http://christysbookblog.blogspot.com Stephen Bly provides a wonderful amusing modern day western sidekick romance starring two likable cowboys on a romantic quest, but whose code of ethics (especially Laramie's) leads to one problem after another. The story line is character driven from the insane opening gamut until the final twisted climax. Readers will never look at the Rio Grande the same way as the buddies learn rustling on either side of the border is unhealthy. In summary, a rose is a rose is a rose except she's not Juanita. Harriet Klausner, Amazon Reviewer, harrietklausner.wwwi.com . . . a truly great read! The story flows smoothly taking the reader from one adventure to another. The characters are well developed and believable. . . . I was drawn into the story and felt as if I were living it. . . Sara was a wonderful addition to the storyline. . . Stephen Bly is an extremely talented author. He successfully blends humor, adventure, and suspense in the same tale. I highly recommend One Step Over the Border by Stephen Bly, to fans of westerns. This is a great summer read. Debra Gaynor, Reader Views, www.readerviews.com, Austin, TX . . . a rollicking cowboy adventure of obsession, life, forgiveness and love. Carolyn R. Scheidies, Author’s Choice Reviews, www.idealinhope.com/bookreviews I found myself swept up in the action and was made to feel as if I were actually there. ONE STEP OVER THE BORDER is in part romance, adventure, and suspense, and is an easy read. The story flows smoothly and is a welcome addition to your bookshelf. Robert H. Goss, Roundtable Reviews, www.roundtablereviews.com/blystephen061407.htm . . . sometimes what people search for isn't always what they expect. Author Stephen Bly fills the pages of the book with cowboy exploits, both tough and tender. . . the story captured the imagination as the characters were likeable and engaging. Readers got a sense of the true friendship that went beneath the men's rough exterior. Kerrily Sapet, BookLoons reviewer, www.bookloons.com One Step Over the Border is a contemporary western, dealing with contemporary issues. As you read, you can't help but grow to like Hap and Laramie–rough, rugged, good-hearted, stand-up cowboys. While searching for Hap's Juanita, they encounter challenging adventures, always heightened by the 'purdy' women along the way. Stephen Bly is a prolific author (ninety-five published books) and best known for his classic historical westerns. He's a consummate writer with a colorful, entertaining writing style–filled with delightful metaphors. He certainly knows his horses, cowboys, ranch and rodeo life. If you're a western buff and want a fun, true-to-life western story, give One Step Over the Border a read. I don't think you'll be disappointed. Kaye Trout, Midwest Book Review, www.midwestbookreview.com and Kaye Trout Book Reviews, www.kayetrout.blogspot.com From the first page to the last, this rollicking adventure will have you chuckling. I've never seen two people get into more scrapes as Hap and Laramie. All while in search of the elusive Juanita. But what they find, besides trouble, will leave you sighing. For fans of Stephen Bly, another hit awaits you. Ane Mulligan, Novel Reviews, Book reviews for discerning readers, http://novelreviews.blogspot.com/search?q=Stephen+Bly Once again, Stephen Bly proves why he's the author of (more than) 95 books and a master at good storytelling . . . Grab your favorite soft drink and bag of chips, then sit back and enjoy a good summer read. One Step Over The Border is a fast-paced, humorous yarn you're going to enjoy. This is one book I can honestly say I wish I had written. Major Mitchell, author, www.majormitchell.net/page9.html Nearly all of us have at least one "idiot obsession," and One Step Over the Border addresses those obsessions with hysterical adventure. If you like to laugh, read, and pursue obsessive adventures, you really need to get a copy of this book! Kathi Macias, award winning author, www.kathimacias.com Stephen Bly has done it again! "One Step Over The Border" is knee-slappin', calf-ropin', foot-stompin', boot-scootin', steer-wranglin', nose-snortin', Skoal-spittin', bronc-bustin' fun! Oh, and it's a good book, too!! Think Danny Glover & Mel Gibson meet Lucy and Ethel:-) ... "One Step Over The Border" is a fun summer read that gets 5 out of five bookmarks from me...with a petite horse's head charm, in honor of Juanita! And I'm voting it "Best Western” (not the motel) of 2007!! Dena Peterson, A Peek At My Bookshelf, http://deenasbooks.blogspot.com "I have been looking forward to getting my hands on Stephen Bly's latest book, having read The Belles of Lordsburg. This cowgirl was impressed by his writing then and still am today. Check him out!" -Rodeo Suspense http://rodeosuspense.blogspot.com/2007/07/cfba-review_18.html I read this book in under two days. I chuckled my way through Hap and Laramie’s exploits . . . Stephen Bly has given the characters true cowboy personalities—and that’s not something you can do if you’re not intimately knowledgeable of what real cowboys are like . . . a fabulous read, and definitely worth adding to your home library. Trish Anderson, Trish’s Take, An Ordinary Life Artist: http://ordinarylife.typepad.com/books/2007/07/trishs-take-one.html If you want to laugh, and think, all while enjoying some of the best writing I've read this year, take a look at One Step Over The Border. Stephen Bly weaves 'cowboy lingo' into the landscape so effortlessly, you'll be caught up in Hap and Laramie's world from the get-go. Erica Vetsch, On The Write Path, http://onthewritepath.blogspot.com/2007/07/this-week-from-cfba_18.html This is a great cowboy story . . . Hap and Laramie are the guys you want riding up when trouble comes your way! You'll love this book, even if you don't normally read westerns. It's got action, adventure, humor, romance, and two great cowboys. Hap and Laramie are now two of my favorite book characters. I really hope there's a sequel because these two cowboys need to live on. Dawn Burns, Charleston, SC, Book Junkie Confessions, http://bookjunkieconfessions.blogspot.com "This is one interesting book. The first chapter is like a wild ride. Nothing predictable. I love it so far. Check it out!" – Michelle, Edgy Inspirational Author, http://edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com If you like things western and some quirky fun you won't want to miss this book!" – Pam Meyers, A Writer's Journey http://pammeyerswrites.blogspot.com This book is crazy. I mean that in a good way! . . . Definitely an interesting read." - Christy Lashea Smith, Christian Under Construction http://christylashea.blogspot.com Not only did the cover of One Step Over the Border make me smile, but the first chapter had me laughing out loud. I don’t think I stopped chuckling until I finished the book - in record time I might add, because it was just that good. There’s just something about a story of two lonesome cowboys getting themselves in one scrap after another that tickles my funny bone. . . This book is a fun read, but it also makes you think about what you'll leave behind. – Paula J. Miller, author of One-Eyed Jack, Reviews By Two, http://reviewsbytwo.blogspot.com This book has a real western flavor and is funny to boot. A very enjoyable read. – April Erwin, Projecting A, http://projectinga.blogspot.com Bly does it again! There is just something so real, so inspirational, and so downright "country" about the way Bly writes. Every time I read one of his books, I long to own a ranch or a farm house of my own . . . I liked the originality of the plot . . . A man pining after a woman he only met, in search of what she represents for 20 years, only to nearly miss the one true love of his life because he had blinders on. Good plot. Good storyline. Good book! Alyice Edrich, www.TheDabblingMum.com ******* COMMENTARIES ******* YeeHaa...throw me a saddle and a rope! I want to get lost in an adventure with Hap & Laramie. Reading their antics finds you wishing you could walk through a looking-glass and stumble along right by their side. I actually laughed out loud during the cemetery scene....I could so visualize it...(ya had to be there). I learned the various uses of a bowling ball, the polite way to flatten a tire, and the correct way to perform an impromptu skit....while Hap is searching the West over for his dream girl Juanita, I’m thinking there actually needs to be more Haps & Laramies in this world. I so hope this saga continues . . . . CJ, Lewiston, Idaho OK, another great book by Stephen Bly. This was a very pleasant read. It wasn't difficult to follow and the characters are guys I'd like to have in my circle of friends. The only problem, not really a problem, is that I want more. I want more of the story of Hap and Laramie. I want more of Sara, Rosa, and Annamarie. I want more of the riding fence, ropin', and all of the cowboy stuff that cowboys do. What can I say? I'm a Bly Fan! Cait, Vancouver, WA I just finished it!!! You will all LOVE it!!! I couldn't put it down and it read soooo easy! Not saying anymore...don't want to spoil it!!! :-) I will say that I think Sara is the best! :-)!!! Jayme, California I just have to jump in and say that I loved, loved, loved Stephen's book, "Paperback Writer." That book got me through some really tough times in my own publishing career, so Stephen ranks high on my list of writers. I don't know if he will see this post or not, but I wish you many, many blessings on your new book! Your sense of humor is refreshing and much needed. Merrie DeStefano I loved this book! I really, really hope there’s a sequel. It reminds me a little of Lonesome Dove, my favorite book of all time. I'm going out this week to get more books by Stephen Bly - this was the first I've read. Dawn B. I’m so excited to hear about another Stephen Bly book! Paige Winship Dooly, romance novelist, The Write Life, http://paigewinshipdooly.blogspot.com One Step Over the Border is so fun that I just couldn’t put it down! As I cooked, I read. As I folded laundry, I read. Everyone, guys and gals, should read this wonderfully entertaining book! Stephen Bly is a great author! Jayme Bateman ******* INTERVIEWS and PROMOTIONS ******* One Step Over the Border featured as Book of the Week, July 18, 2007, on Christian Fiction Blog Alliance: http://christianfictionblogalliance.blogspot.com . . . Bonnie Calhoun, Director, CFBA Interview with Chris Well, Christian Music Planet: “Have you seen Stephen Bly?” www.christianmusicplanet.com/search/11542848 Interview with Angela Elwell Hunt, best-selling author of The Tale of Three Trees, The Debt, The Note, and The Nativity Story, A Life In Pages blog: http://alifeinpages.blogspot.com/2006_10_01_archive.html Interview with Lena Nelson Dooley, author, editor and speaker, A Christian Writer’s World—Characters That Grip Your Heart: http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com Interview at FaithfulReader.com: www.faithfulreader.com www.faithfulreader.com/authors/au-bly-stephen.asp#talk0707 Interview with Angela Elwell Hunt, best-selling author of The Tale of Three Trees, The Debt, The Note, and The Nativity Story, A Life In Pages, “Have You Seen My Juanita?”: alifeinpages.blogspot.com/2006_10_01_archive.html Interview with Lena Nelson Dooley, author, editor, speaker: lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com Interview with Cecelia Dowdy, Prince George’s County, Maryland, ceceliadowdy.blogspot.com/search?q=Stephen+Bly Interview with Ane Mulligan, Novel Journey, Nothing speaks the truth like fiction, noveljourney.blogspot.com/search?q=Stephen+Bly Interviews with Bailey Truitt, Scenes and Beans, Java Joint at Kanner Lake, kannerlake.blogspot.com/search?q=Stephen+Bly Interview with Dineen Miller, Kittens Come From Eggs blog, dineenmiller.blogspot.com/search?q=Stephen+Bly Interview with David Meigs, The Curmudgeon’s Rant: dameigs.blogspot.com/2007/06/one-step-over-border-by-stephen-bly.html Interview with Jennifer Andrade, So Many Books . . . So Little Time: http://somanybooksblog.blogspot.com Interview with Christa Allan, Word Press: cballan.wordpress.com/tag/author-interviews Interview with Tricia Goyer, author of Arms of Deliverance, It’s Real Life, “Where Is Juanita?”: triciagoyer.blogspot.com/search?q=Stephen+Bly Also featured on It’s Real Life, July 25, 2007: http://triciagoyer.blogspot.com Interview with Tricia Goyer, author of Arms of Deliverance, CAN Marketing Blog: canblog.typepad.com/canbookmarketing/2006/10/one_step_over_t.html - more Interview with Alyice Edrich, Editor, The Dabbling Mum: thedabblingmum.blogspot.com/2006/11/interview-with-stephen-bly_642.html Interview with Kathi Macias: http://www.kathimacias.com Interview at Squirrel’s Treehouse: http://scrollsquirrel.blogspot.com/2006/10/steven-bly-author-interview-and-press.html Featured by Bonnie Calhoun on Bonnie Writes: http://bonniescalhoun.blogspot.com Mentioned on Forensics and Faith, Brandilyn Collins Seatbelt Suspense ™: http://forensicsandfaith.blogspot.com/2007/07/partners-in-crime.html Featured by award winning author, Robin Lee Hatcher, on Write Thinking: http://robinlee.typepad.com Featured on A Little Creative License, Alison Strobel, author of Violette Between: http://blog.alisonstrobel.com Featured by chick lit novelist Camy Tang on Camy’s Loft: http://camys-loft.blogspot.com Featured by David Meigs on Curmudgeon’s Rant: http://dameigs.blogspot.com Featured by LaShaunda Carruth Hoffman, Saint Louis, Missouri, See Ya On The Net: http://lashaunda.blogspot.com/2007/07/cfba-author-intro-stephen-bly.html Featured on Christian Fiction Releases: http://faithwebbin.net/share/fiction/?cat=1 Featured by L. Diane Wolfe, North Carolina, on “Spunk On A Stick” and The Circle of Friends: http://circleoffriendsbooks.blogspot.com Featured on A Place Called Fiction: http://anewnovelistsjourney.blogspot.com Featured by Deborah of Virginia on Books, Movies, and Chinese Food: http://books-movies-chinesefood.blogspot.com Featured on Stifled Squeal: http://zyphe.blogspot.com Featured by Sally Bradley, author of Touching Home: http://sallybradley.com/?p=216 Featured on Relz Reviews, Melbourne, Australia: http://relzreviewz.blogspot.com Featured on Disturbing the Universe, by Karen M: http://disturbingreviews.blogspot.com Featured on frommipov, by SandieAndie, Chesapeake, VA: http://frommipov.blogspot.com Featured by Mike Dellosso, Fictional Journey, Hanover, PA: http://mikedellosso.blogspot.com Featured on Bookshelf Review, by Jake: http://bookshelfreview.blogspot.com Featured by author Robin Bayne on Between Sundays: http://wwwwritingbetweensundays.blogspot.com Featured by David Brollier, Huguenot, NY, on Christian Mystery Writers: http://cmwforum.blogspot.com Featured by Becky of Texas on Becky’s Christian Reviews: http://stand-firm-then.blogspot.com Featured by Jill Hart on Christian Work at Home Moms: http://cwahmjill.blogspot.com Featured by Garth Trekker on Bloggin’ Out Loud: http://blogginoutloud.blogspot.com Featured by M. 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Pearson on Mimi’s Pixie Corner: http://tagsandotherformsofmischief.blogspot.com Featured by Ty of South Carolina on Cookie Mix!: http://cookieaisle.blogspot.com Featured by Gretchen of Philadelphia on Inspire Me: http://dreamwriter07.blogspot.com Featured by Linda Gilmore, Editor, Musings from the Windowsill: http://lindaruthspot.blogspot.com Featured by Cheryl at Unseen Worlds: http://unseenworlds.blogspot.com/search?q=Stephen+Bly Featured by Marcia Laycock, Writer-Lee: http://writer-lee.blogspot.com Featured on Ink Scrawls, by Shelley of New Brunswick, Canada: http://inkscrawls.blogspot.com/2007/07/cfba-book-review-one-step-over-border.html Featured on Sword and Pen, Akron, Ohio: http://hisart777.blogspot.com Featured by Dee, Whitehall, Pennsylvania, Divine Perspective: http://dp.atwc1.com/2007/07/introducing-one-step-over-border.html Featured by Jenny, Missouri Ozarks, on My Buckling Bookshelf: http://mybucklingbookshelf.blogspot.com Featured by Jason Joyner, Blackfoot, Idaho, Spoiled For the Ordinary: http://spoiledfortheordinary.blogspot.com Featured by Kelly, Trinidad and Tobago, A Disciple’s Steps: http://disciplesteps.blogspot.com/2007/07/one-step-over-border-blog-tour.html Featured by Brittanie, A Book Lover: http://abookloverforever.blogspot.com/2007/07/one-step-over-border-by-stephen-bly.html Featured by StoryLine on TimeToTalk: http://faithconnect.blogspot.com/2007/07/one-step-over-border.html Featured by Jim Black, Bedford, Pennsylvania, The Bedford Review: http://jimfictionreview.blogspot.com/2007/07/cfba-tour-one-step-over-border-by.html Featured by Ruth on Christian Fiction Queen: www.xanga.com/christianfictionqueen Featured by Aussie Tiger, Adelaide, Australia, Just My Journal: http://aussietigger1980.blogspot.com/2007/07/one-step-over-border-by-stephen-bly.html