End-Times Shaking and Revival Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: End-Time Shaking and Revival

Author: Guillermo Maldonado

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Theology/Eschatology

Release date: October 5, 2021

Shaking…Then Revival…Then Harvest!

The end times are unfolding before our eyes.

First, there will be unprecedented shakings.

Today, the world is shaking in alarming ways. And this is just the beginning. Nations, institutions, economies, families, individuals, the earth’s environment, the cosmos, the spiritual realm—in every dimension and sphere of life, we will see powerful waves of shaking that disrupt the course of our lives and take away our false sense of security in earthly resources, compelling us to return to our Creator.

The main purpose of these shakings is to judge the people of the world for their sin and rebellion against God. Yet God is using the shaking we are now experiencing to refine believers so we will be purified to become the remnant that is ready for Jesus’s imminent appearing.

Second, there will be unprecedented revival.

As we respond to the shaking with repentance and wholehearted devotion to God, we will be prepared to take an active role in the coming last-days revival in which God’s sovereign glory will be revealed! There will be an all-inclusive supernatural movement characterized by miracles, healings, salvations, financial provision, prophetic visions, renewed holiness, powerful worship, strong discipleship, and profound love.

Finally, there will be an unprecedented harvest of souls with global impact!

The Holy Spirit will empower the church to reach the lost with the demonstration of miracles, signs, and wonders. Millions of people worldwide will come to genuine repentance, surrendering their hearts to the Lord Jesus.

In End-Time Shaking and Revival, best-selling author Guillermo Maldonado expands on last-days themes introduced in his previous books, revealing how to…

• Avoid God’s judgment
• Respond correctly to the divine shakings in your life and in the world
• Be revived and continuously filled with the Spirit
• Participate in the worldwide harvest
• Move in supernatural power

We must understand God’s cycle of end-time events so we can align our lives with His momentous purposes in these last days!

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

This is a hard review for me to write, mainly because I don’t know if I agree with the author on a lot of things he talks about in this book. He believes in gifts like prophecy and visions and tongues, which as a cessationist, I hold to the view that these gifts have ceased. But I will also admit that my view could be wrong.

I understood what he was trying to say and I don’t doubt that we are in a period of shaking, but I don’t know if I agree with the author about it being the end. This book was challenging for me to get through because I disagreed with the author quite a bit, but he still had me question my view points on these subject matters.

Here are a couple of quotes that stood out to me that I really liked:

“What we do, what we create and how we act in a time of God’s shaking will reveal our identity in God, our authenticity, our spiritual knowledge, and our position in Christ” (Loc. 573, 581).

“God uses situations of shaking to help us recognize that we need to place our trust fully in Him at all times” (Loc. 1084).

Overall, I didn’t like this book, but that isn’t the author’s fault. It has more to do with my viewpoints on certain topics and whether or not I am wrong. From the get go, I knew that I wouldn’t agree with the author. I’m sure there are some who will appreciate what he has to say and bee in agreement with him.

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

Active in ministry for over twenty years, Apostle Guillermo Maldonado is the founder of King Jesus International Ministry—one of the fastest-growing multicultural churches in the United States—which has been recognized for its visible manifestations of God´s supernatural power. King Jesus Ministry currently has a membership of more than 25,000, including the main church in Miami, Florida, its campuses, its daughter churches, and its online church. Apostle Maldonado is also a spiritual father to 500 churches in 70 countries, which form the Supernatural Global Network, representing more than 750,000 people. In addition, he is the founder of the University of the Supernatural Ministry (USM). Apostle Maldonado has a doctorate in Christian counseling and a master’s degree in practical theology.

More from Guillermo

The end times are unfolding before our eyes. First, there will be unprecedented shakings in every dimension and sphere of life. Second, there will be unprecedented revival. Finally, there will be an unprecedented harvest of souls with global impact! The Holy Spirit will empower the church to reach the lost with the demonstration of many signs and wonders. In End-Time Shaking and Revival, best-selling author Guillermo Maldonado explains how to respond to God’s cycle of end-time events so we can align our lives with His momentous purposes in these last days!

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 12

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 13

Fiction Book Lover, October 14 (Spotlight)

Inklings and notions, October 15

Simple Harvest Reads, October 16 (Spotlight)

For Him and My Family, October 16

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 17

Texas Book-aholic, October 18

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 19

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 20

Artistic Nobody, October 21 (Spotlight)

deb’s Book Review, October 21

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 22

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 23

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 24

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Guillermo is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks gift card and copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fe2/end-time-shaking-and-revival-celebration-tour-giveaway

When the Pilot Falls Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: When the Pilot Falls

Author: April Hayman

Genre: Christian Historical Mystery, Fairytale

Release date: September 7, 2021

In 1923, there aren’t many pilots, but Willie Labeau didn’t let that stop… her.

A bear of a man, Hugh Taylor, needs a stunt plane pilot, and despite their rocky introduction, Willie sets off for golden California and a new life as his pilot. There’s just one little thing she has to do in addition to flying.

Leave his past alone. Period.

When the flame of her own curiosity becomes fanned by encouragement from Willie’s sister, the feisty pilot can’t help but do just a little investigating.

And Hugh vanishes.

Friends rally around her, and with all the information she can find in hand, Willie sets off to rescue Hugh and battle the evil family holding him hostage.

A fierce air race, a sincere act of humility—are they enough to free Hugh and give Willie a chance to be with him… forever?

Find out in this next book in the Ever After Mysteries, combining beloved fairy tales and mysteries. When the Pilot Falls offers a retelling of “East of the Sun, West of the Moon” that will keep you gripped to the edge of your seat as you watch hearts soar and daring dos.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

I loved When the Pilot Falls, it was such a unique retelling and I was gripped from the beginning. I especially loved how halfway through the book it took a turn that I was not expecting, and I loved that! 

I enjoyed getting to know the characters/ Willie was great and dynamic. I love that she was a pilot and doing something that was unconventional, but still feminine. I also liked Hugh and felt like he was a great male lead. However, I still don’t fully understand the whole thing that happened to him in the second half. I also loved the side characters, especially Estie, I would live to read a story with her as the main character. 

I loved the backdrop of the 1920s and learning about the early days f aviation and just how far we have come since then as far as flying goes. 

Overall, I really enjoyed When the Pilot Falls and I look forward to reading more from April Hayman in the future. 4/5 Stars. 

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Author

April Hayman lives in the high desert of California with her husband and their three sons. During the day, she focuses on homeschooling the boys and working on client projects. She writes at night when the temperature outside is only somewhat cooler than during the day.

Her passion for reading began in grade school and her teachers often reprimanded her for reading when she should have been completing her math assignments. Now she reads whenever she likes and writes for those who love to read.

April collects fountain pens, has too many pen pals (and always looking for more), journals sporadically, creates art when she can squeeze it in, and hordes stationery.

More from April

I’ve always loved to write. I still remember pounding out a science fiction story about a lizard man on my Grandmother’s typewriter, with its sticky ‘e’ key, then excitedly asking to read it to her. She patiently listened and praised my writing. I was thrilled even though, now as an adult, I realized she was humoring me. I continued to write on an off for the next twenty years, but it wasn’t until I found National Novel Writing Month that I really began to write in earnest.

I’d already begun my search into story structure and, one day while researching, NaNoWriMo popped up on my browser window. Interested, I clicked over and I was intrigued. Here was a chance to write 50,000 words in thirty days with a support group of other writers! And, with a day to go, I signed up. After all, how hard is it to write 50,000 words?

Turns out, it’s super hard. Especially when you’re new to story structure, developing characters, and correct pacing. It was a fabulous disaster of a story, but I did manage to hit my mark and “win” that year. And, best of all, I’d met Chautona Havig. She and I became friends and her brilliant writing advice and support has meant the world to me.

Every year after that, except when I moved away, I participated. Eventually I became a Municipal Liaison, the head volunteer and writer wrangler, for our area. It was a lot of fun but not one of those books has been published. They’re just for me and I love them, even if they’re awful.

Eventually, my participation was noticed by my three boys. While all of them enjoy reading to varying degrees, writing was always hard for them. Not that they don’t love to tell a good story. It’s the writing part that’s hard. Anyway, my eldest son finally decided to join the Young Writers Program (NaNoWriMo for pre-teens and teens) one year and got bitten by the writing bug. We’re currently working on his latest story. I’m so happy to have passed on my love of writing to him and his brothers!

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 16

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 16

Texas Book-aholic, October 17

Inklings and notions, October 18

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, October 18 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 19

For Him and My Family, October 19

deb’s Book Review, October 20

SodbusterLiving, October 20

ABBA’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 22

Simple Harvest Reads, October 22 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 23

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, October 23

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 24

Connect in Fiction, October 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 25

Connie’s History Classroom, October 26

Mary Hake, October 26

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 27

Aryn the Libraryan 📚, October 27

For the Love of Literature, October 28

Through the Fire Blogs, October 28

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 29

Back Porch Reads, October 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, April is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/126ae/when-the-pilot-falls-celebration-tour-giveaway

Saving Ebenezer Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Saving Ebenezer

Author: S. Daniel Smith

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: October 12, 2021

Much had changed in seven years. Scrooge had given all to rid himself of the guilt and shame of his miserly ways. Nearly saved Tiny Tim, too, who was only slightly bigger at his death than Christmas Eve seven years prior. Scrooge had the best doctors working on the boy’s condition, all of them happy to have Scrooge pay for this treatment or that, but never quite figuring out exactly what was wrong. Still, Tim had started the pathway of a bright future.

Until pneumonia struck. In a fortnight, Tim had gone from spry and hopeful to weak and discouraged. And then dead.

As Ebenezer Scrooge watched the simple casket lowered into the near-frozen muck on December 20^th, 1850, there could be no mistaking the fact that a piece of him was being buried as well.

And that was why Ebenezer Scrooge was angry.

The old Scrooge was back. Joy had given away to sorrow in the meanest of ways, for it sprung upon the old man with such ferocity that he had no defense. Powerless, and angry, that was Ebenezer Scrooge, all right. Joy had given way quickly to pain and sorrow, the likes of which Ebenezer Scrooge had never experienced before.

Ebenezer Scrooge, heartbroken and frustrated, begins to ask questions about faith. Much like the original story, he is given a guide to help him find the answers. As he struggles to understand death, sorrow, and poverty in terms of faith, he finds one answer to all his questions: Jesus Christ. The book ends with Ebenezer finding faith, health, and love.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

Saving Ebenezer is an enjoyable sequel to the classic A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. I didn’t quite know what to expect and I was a little bit apprehensive. But, Dan Smith did a great job at creating an imaginative sequel, but he also captured the writing stuyle of the original work and sounded like Mr. Dickens himself! 

I appreciated that the novel examines what is necessary for a person to truly be changed – salvation. And how all the money and good works account for nothing apart from salvation. I thought this was an interesting theme to explore, especially with such a well-beloved, classic character. 

I also enjoyed getting reacquainted with these beloved characters, as well as meeting some new ones too. 

Overall, this was a great follow-up to A Christmas Carol, and I highly recommend it if you are looking for a Christmas story told in a similar vein. 4/5 Stars. 

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Author

Dan Smith is a Christian, a husband, a father, a career US Navy sailor, and freelance writer living in Virginia Beach, VA with his wife and three children. His publishing history goes back 21 years, when he was first published in the magazine Pentecostal Messenger.

Dan specializes in writing about life in the military, especially as it affects Christians in service. He has also tackled the issue of cystic fibrosis, the autism spectrum, and a host of other topics.

More from Dan

“I have always loved the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. From the original novella to The Muppets, I’ve been fascinated by the story. Only one thing was truly missing, and that was the real hope Christians find in Jesus Christ. In that way, Saving Ebenezer: The Continuing Saga of a man named Scrooge is my offering to my Lord. I did my best to retain the style and language of the original, as well as to stay true to the original story and characters, while offering a glimpse at the hope we have in Jesus.

The biggest reason I wrote the book is to show the need for Christ. I do my best to keep from being preachy, and I believe you’ll find the book entertaining with a point. I can’t wait to hear what you think!”

Blog Stops

The Write Escape, October 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 14

Genesis 5020, October 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 15

deb’s Book Review, October 16

Texas Book-aholic, October 17

Labor Not in Vain, October 17

Inklings and notions, October 18

For Him and My Family, October 19

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 20

Cats in the Cradle Blog, October 20

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 22

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 23

Mary Hake, October 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 24

Connie’s History Classroom, October 25

Denise L. Barela, Author, October 25

Betti Mace, October 26

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, S. Daniel is the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/122da/saving-ebenezer-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Well Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Well

Author: Cathy Primer Krafve

Genre: Nonfiction

The Well: The Art of Drawing Out Authentic Conversation

Does your spouse refuse to hear? Do your children stare without comprehending? Does your parent or boss habitually raise objections to your good ideas?

Oh, the frustration! Conversations often break down instead of breaking through.

She changed from a woman alone to a woman of influence. Her faith transformed a whole community. How did she do it? In The Well, Cathy Krafve points out 40 strategies Jesus used to prompt authentic conversation—by analyzing just one conversation with the woman at the well.

These strategies will help you:

• Initiate simple communication principles to transform all your conversations. Go from magical thinking to miraculous results in a matter of a few biblical truths.

• Invigorate your closest relationships with terrific communication. Watch the ripple effect as your conversations spread truth and joy throughout all your relationships.

• Inspire others through authentic conversations. Enjoy the intimate companionship our hearts all crave.

Are you ready to foster tender, effective conversations with everyone around you? Don’t miss your chance to transform all your relationships!

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

The Well was an interesting look at how we can each (and should) grow in the areas of communication and conversation. The author takes the account of the woman at the well in John 4 and uses it as her foundation for all of her points on the topic of authentic communication. It was an interesting perspective of a passage that I have read many times before. 

I appreciated the message of this book, although I did struggled to pay attention. It seemed to be very wordy at times, and there were times I had a hard time understanding how some of the anecdotes were connected to the points that the author was trying to make. But I think it has to do more with my personal preferences when it comes to  Christian non-fiction that the author’s writing style.

However, even though there were times I didn’t seem to gel with the book, there were also several great nuggets of truth that stuck out to me that I would like to share: 

• “God transforms our worst hurts into sacred stories when we turn them over to Him for His glory and purpose” (6). 
• “Better communication matters because conversation forms the basis of all healthy human relationships” (8). 
• “Companionship can only be real in our lives if we put aside feelings of rejection and embrace people where we all live in our own humanness. Baring our souls and being authentic requires courage” (9). 
• “To be patient with others we must learn to be patient with ourselves first” (40). 
• “Companionship, fellowship, and community are the long-range goals of all communication, not winning debate points…True credibility comes from understanding the needs of those we love and being faithful to the call to serve each other” (59). 
• “When we adopt authenticity with humility, however, truth with compassion will inevitably begin to permeate all our relationships. Therefore, it’s worth listening with an open heart to accept correction when it applies” (112). 
• “We cheat ourselves of the joy of collaboration when we overreach our responsibilities” (184). 

While there were some parts of The Well that I didn’t enjoy, I still learned a few things from it and I think it will be a great tool for others who wish to grow in their conversation and communication skill. 3.5/5 Stars. 

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

Queen of Fun and Coffee Cup Philosopher, Cathy Krafve delivers creativity and encouragement in every word. Cathyputs a snappy spin on deeply spiritual truths with journalistic fervor and a knack for story-telling.

Cathy and David, her husband of almost 40 years, live in East Texas, with their three grown children, two delightful sons-in-law and 8 grandchildren (so far) nearby.

Author of The Well: The Art of Drawing Out Authentic Conversationsand Marriage Conversations: from coexisting to cherished, she also hosts Fireside Talk Radio. Her weekly podcasts and blogs reach millions annually. Join the Fireside Tribe today!

Truth with a Texas twang!

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More from Cathy

From Isolated to Influence

“He’s not listening,” Cathy fumed, as the civic leader towered over her. She went home and “plopped open” her Bible.

There’s got to be something here about people who don’t listen. She found over 40 ways Jesus communicated.

Plus, she gained new respect for one of the most fascinating women in scripture. Jesus, the Master Communicator, engaged the woman at the well in just one conversation. She immediately zipped from lonely to leadership. We can, too!

Queen of Fun and Coffee Cup Philosopher, Cathy Krafve delivers creativity and encouragement on every page of The Well: The Art of Drawing Out Authentic Conversations.

Does your child stare back with dull eyes? A spouse who refuses to hear? A parent or boss who habitually raises objections? Oh, the frustration!

Conversations often break down instead of breaking through.

The Well is perfect for your book club, Bible Study, or Sunday school class. Each chapter ends with thought-provoking questions, personal applications, and prayer.

Cathy puts a snappy spin on deeply spiritual truths with journalistic fervor and a knack for laughter and story-telling. A self-described “social dork,” her kryptonite is a bag of potato chips. Yep, a whole bag. Don’t judge!

Host of Fireside Talk Radio, her weekly blogs and podcasts reach over 3 million people annually. She is also author of Marriage Conversations: From Co-existing to Cherished.

How do we go from isolated to influence? She understands good communication tools can change everything! Companionship begins with authentic conversations. Order two copies today; one for yourself and one to give to a friend!

Truth with a Texas twang spoken here!

Blog Stops

Inklings and notions, October 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 17

Texas Book-aholic, October 18

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 20

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 21

The Sacred Line, October 21

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 22

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 23

deb’s Book Review, October 24

For Him and My Family, October 25

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 27

Artistic Nobody, October 28 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, October 28

Spoken from the Heart, October 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Cathy is giving away the grand prize package of a $100 Amazon gift card and a copy of both The Well and Marriage Conversations!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/1229d/the-well-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Postman’s Lantern Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Postman’s Lantern

Author: J.C. Comerford

Genre: Christian Children’s Fiction, Christmas

Release date: January 8, 2020

During a devastating Christmas Eve snowstorm, John the postman arrives at his last stop, at the steps of the Frost family. Here, he rediscovers a stowaway letter in his mailbag, not for his route. It’s a letter from a hospitalized grandfather, to a very special grandson. John feels obligated to make the delivery. His unselfish act of kindness leads him, and then the Frost family, on an unforgettable journey across a seemingly endless track of farmland. Little does John know what he’s actually carrying. The lantern he carries becomes a mystery that guides their way through astonishing events. They finally arrive at the Evans house, where they find themselves before an extremely sick boy, a mother’s pain, and the mystical workings of God.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

I don’t quite know what to say about The Postman’s Lantern. I think I understand what the author was trying to do, but there were times I found myself lost and not quite getting what was going on at times. I don’t know if it was just that there was too much going on or if the book could have done with being longer. Also, the ending was a little bit odd and really could have been fleshed out a bit more. 

I do want to bring up something that a reviewer on Goodreads mentioned that I also noticed quite a bit, and that is the use/misuse of the Lord’s name. I found that God’s name was used by the adults inappropriately fairly frequently throughout the book. Maybe I am wrong and it’s not, but I did think it was important to bring up for those who are more sensitive to things like that. 

Overall, The Postman’s Lantern was okay, and honestly it was kind of a let down because I was looking forward to reading it. 3/5 Stars. 

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Author

John Charles Comerford grew up playing hard, on the streets and fields of Washington Township, New Jersey. He attended Our Lady of Good Counsel Grammar School through 8th grade. He then jumped across the street to attend Westwood High School, where he soon began playing guitar and composing songs at the age of sixteen. Writing short musical stories would soon turn into a more involved field of composition, as he later attended Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ. Here, he developed a desire to become a paperback writer. While attending college, he took a job with the US Postal Service as a mail carrier and is still delivering, thirty years later. He is still a performing musician and a recording artist on itunes. He now resides in Pawling, New York with his wife Bridget and his son Jack.

More from John Charles

I was just a little kid at the time. The temperature outside was 93 degrees. I had awakened earlier that day, because it was a Saturday. I wanted to catch some early morning cartoons, instead of lying in bed, waiting for my dad to give out chores for the day. I knew it was going to be a hot one, and I dreaded going outside.

Before long, there I was slapping paint on the side of my house. Soon after, I was weeding and watering the front lawn before it reached into the 90’s. At about 12:00, I went inside to cool off. I ate some lunch and relaxed a bit, listening to the “Boston Pops” my dad had put on.

From a calm and collective state of mind, I was suddenly burdened by the noise of my barking dog, at the front window. I went to the front door and opened it wide. As I looked up, the mailman was looking down. His face was dripping sweat, and his uniform was soaked. He had a big smile and said, “Too hot to play today.” He laughed a bit and handed me the mail. I heard my mom and dad yell out “Thank you, do you need a cold drink at all?” He said “I’m all set but thank you.” He moved on, while adjusting that full bag of mail that he was carrying around his shoulders.

It was then that I decided I would never become a mailman. God, no, not this kid. That was no easy job.

14 years later, I was working for the post office, with a packed satchel around my neck, and a can of pepper spray, to boot. I was now walking that mile, in my old mailman’s boots. Many times I’ve prayed to God for help and to keep me from dozing off in trucks that reached 120 degrees inside. I prayed for help from dog attacks that would occur five times a day at least. I prayed for help from the pain you feel when it’s 30 degrees to 20 below and you’re soaked from rain. Your fingers are ready to fall off after being soaked from the rain or as they burn to the bone.

So I wrote my book, seeking the world’s attention to the mail carrier’s integrity, and a forever caring attitude to those who patiently await their arrival.

Blog Stops

Christian Bookaholic, October 7

Pause for Tales, October 8

For the Love of Literature, October 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 10

lakesidelivingsite, October 10

Lighthouse Academy Blog, October 11 (Guest Post from Marilyn Ridgway)

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 12

Mary Hake, October 12

Girls in White Dresses, October 13

Texas Book-aholic, October 13

Inklings and notions, October 14

Vicky Sluiter, October 15

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 15

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 16

To Everything There Is A Season, October 16

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 17

deb’s Book Review, October 17

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 18

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 18

Cats in the Cradle Blog, October 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 19

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 20

For Him and My Family, October 20

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, John Charles is giving away the grand prize package for a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fdd/the-postman-s-lantern-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Heart’s Forever Home Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: A Heart’s Forever Home

Author: Lena Nelson Dooley

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: August 17, 2021

A single lawyer whose clients think he needs a wife.

A woman who needs a forever home…or a forever family…or a forever love.

Although Traesa Killdare is a grown woman now, the discovery that her adoption wasn’t finalized sends her reeling. Especially when her beloved grandmother dies and the only siblings she’s ever known exile her from the family property without a penny to her name.

Wilson Pollard works hard for the best interest of his law clients, even those who think a marriage would make him more “suitable” in his career. And when the beloved granddaughter of a recently deceased client comes to him for help, he knows he must do whatever necessary to make her situation better.

As each of their circumstances worsen, a marriage of convenience seems the only answer for both. Traesa can’t help but fall for her new husband—the man who’s given her both his home and his name. But what will it take for Wilson to realize he loves her? Will a not-so-natural disaster open his eyes and heart?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

I went into A Heart’s Forever Home blindly, I had a vague understanding of what the plot was about, but I loved it! I also had no expectations of what to expect and it was a lot more engaging than I could ever have expected. I was hooked from the very first page!

I loved getting to know Traesa and Wilson and seeing them enter a marriage of convenience. Wilson is every part the gentleman and does everything he can to protect Traesa. There were times I felt like Traesa made some decisions that put her in danger, and it did annoy me a little bit. 

I found the plot and pacing to be pretty good throughout the novel until the last quarter. It just seemed to speed up quite a bit and ended somewhat abruptly and  U had questions that were left unanswered, mainly about Traesa’s brother. 

Overall, I really liked A Heart’s Forever Home and I hope to read more from Lena Nelson Dooley in the future. 4/5 Stars. 

About the Author

Lena Nelson Dooley has been an author for 36 years. Her 51^st book released in June 2020. Raised in Arkansas, she married a Texan 56 years ago. They have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex for decades. She is an active member of ACFW and one of the founding members the DFW local chapter. She’s often been a speaker for other writers’ groups and conferences, both as a keynote speaker and a workshop teacher. Her fans love reading her books filled with characters who grip your heart.

More from Lena

I’ve been a lover of history for decades. In college and graduate school, all my elective courses were history. Of course, I chose the countries and eras I wanted to learn about. When I began writing novels, my first one was a contemporary story. After that at least 75% or more of my novels have been historical, all the way from 1805 through the early 20^th century.

One of the hallmarks of my historical novels is the authenticity I write into the stories. Because of the amount of research I’ve done over the years, I’m kind of an expert in 19^th century history. My characters and their stories are completely fictional, but the other things in the book are mostly true. I search until I find what I need to know or until I reach a complete dead end.

The history of the orphan trains has interested me since I first learned about them. One of them ended in Fort Worth where a pastor and his wife helped find the last orphans a home. A few didn’t get a home, so they took them in. In the 20^th century that became an orphanage, then a home for unwed mothers.

A Heart’s Forever Home has three settings—Fort Worth, Texas; Waco, Texas; and New York City. It’s a Marriage of Convenience story and much more. This is another type of story I like to read and I like to write. Finding a different reason for the necessity of the marriage is interesting.

I’d found an event that occurred north of Waco in 1896. It was so bizarre I wanted to include it in a book. It was a perfect fit for this story and became an important catalyst in the story.

I’m what’s called in the industry a seat-of-the-pants author, more or less. I do have the complete outline of the story in my head. When I sit down to write, I know where I’m going, but I don’t have every single scene plotted out as some authors do. And I pray… a lot. During the time I’m writing a book, God drops ideas into my thought processes. Not just while I’m writing, but other times, too. That’s the exciting thing about writing. This keeps it fresh for me.

When you’ve finished reading this story, I hope you’ll let me know what you think of it. I really like getting reader feedback.

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 12

Maureen’s Musings, October 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 13

The Book Chic Blog, October 13

Texas Book-aholic, October 14

deb’s Book Review, October 14

Bizwings Blog, October 15

Reviewingbooksplusmore, October 15

By the Book, October 16

Kathleen’s Book Review, October 16

lakesidelivingsite, October 17

For Him and My Family, October 17

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 19

Inklings and notions, October 19

Vicky Sluiter, October 20

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 20

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 22

Joanna Bair, October 22

Bigreadersite, October 23

Mary Hake, October 23

Connie’s History Classroom, October 24

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 24

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 25

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 25

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lena is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fe3/a-heart-s-forever-home-celebration-tour-giveaway

Penelope’s Pursuit Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Penelope’s Pursuit

Author: Chautona Havig

Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense

Release date: June 29, 2021

Are mail-order-brides changing their minds or is something sinister going on in Kansas?

Ten years ago, Penelope’s sister ran away as a mail-order bride, and it was the last their family ever heard from her. Now, with their parents dead and Penelope all alone, the young woman has one goal. Find her sister.

It took enough grit for Henry to write to Miss Mildred Crenshaw about finding him a wife in the first place, but when the stage arrives and no bride steps off, the whole thing feels like a confidence scheme. Investigation, however, sends chills down his spine as he realizes women are leaving the east for the west but many never arrive at their destinations.

Is it any wonder that Penelope doesn’t trust the man who abducts her from the clutches of her new friends and rides off into the sunset? Is his explanation reasonable? Can she convince him to help her find her sister?

And is she about to fall in love with a homesteader on the untamed prairies of Kansas?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

Penelope’s Pursuit is an interesting take on mail-order brides, and I honestly expected nothing less from Chautona Havig. I loved how while this is a romance of sorts, it also tackles the difficult topic of human trafficking and other not-so-nice sides of mail-order brides. While it did get gritty at times, I also appreciated that this was contrasted with the blossoming of new love. 

I enjoyed the writing style, but there were a couple of places were it did seem a little slow, but it was also necessary or the furtherance of the plot. I also liked the letters at the beginning/end of every chapter. I personally would have loved for there to have been more, but that’s just because I really love epistolary novels. 

I liked getting to know the characters, especially Penelope and Reuben. I sometimes found Penelope to be a bit too stubborn for her own good, but think that is also because I can identify with that part of her character, although I wish I could deny it. Reuben was also a great character and honestly it was hard to read the heartbreak he goes through due to the sins of others. There are also some other characters I loved meeting in the town of Laure Mound and I hope to read about them all again soon. 

Overall, I really enjoyed Penelope’s Pursuit. It is both a light-hearted romance, but also a look at the grittier parts of history. Chautona Havig continues to show why she is one of my favorite authors because she is only one of a few authors that I think could pull this off really well. As always,  eagerly anticipate what she puts out next. 4/5 Stars. 

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Author

Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her at chautona.com and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.

More from Chautona

Mail Order Brides: Do We Romanticize the Past?

Although I recall reading about mail-order brides in school… somewhere… Patricia MacLachlan’s Sarah, Plain and Tall was my first introduction to the idea of advertising for or requesting the services of a matchmaker to find a wife. The book and the subsequent movie showed the difficulties of such a marriage and left us all with a satisfactory ending.

Some years later, while doing a bit of research, I discovered another side of the coin—a horrifying picture of what happened to some gullible young women and the unscrupulous people who used such matchmaking schemes as a means for human trafficking. It sickened me, as it should anyone.

All my ideas for mail order bride novels ended up as wadded up balls of mental paper and in the wastepaper basket of my mind. A few years passed, and I came up with a twist on mail order brides, one that will see the light of day if I ever have time to write it. A few more years passed, and a series of books featuring a matchmaking service for mail-order brides and the Homestead Act resurrected those ideas. I smoothed a couple out, reconsidered, and decided against writing them.

I’d have to miss the opportunity to join the series.

My mind never does follow orders well. Within minutes of that decision, I had a story. What would happen if there was some funny business going on with girls going west? How could I combine a satisfactory ending where two people came to a meeting of the minds and hearts in the midst of fighting something that ugly?

Penelope’s Pursuit was born.

Is my story idealized? Probably. I’ll be frank with you. I’m okay with that, too. See, sometimes all we need is a reminder that mankind is sinful and in need of a Savior before the story turns into how things should have been. After all, fiction mirrors reality, but it is also an escape.

I hope Penelope’s escape to the west and her pursuit of her sister encourages you to turn to the Lord for every decision, in every trouble, and with every praise possible in between.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 9

Blogging With Carol, October 9

Texas Book-aholic, October 10

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 11

Inklings and notions, October 11

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 12

Lots of Helpers, October 13

For Him and My Family, October 13

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 14

deb’s Book Review, October 15

Joanne Markey, October 15

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 16

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 17

Mary Hake, October 17

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, October 18 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 18

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 19

Vicky Sluiter, October 19

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 20

Connie’s History Classroom, October 21

Blossoms and Blessings, October 21

Splashes of Joy, October 22

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away the grand prize package of $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fe1/penelope-s-pursuit-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Weather Girls: Sunny Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Weather Girls: Sunny

Author: Jennifer Lynn Cary

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: September 6, 2021

She got stood up on Valentine’s Day…

…Then she lost her job

Could the legend of the cardinal change her luck?

With a disposition as bright as her name, Sunny shakes it off the worst day of her life and makes a new start. She’s got the brains that it takes, but she’s more than a little scared. It’s not just her reputation on the line.

Would this cockeyed adventure be the thing her siblings need too?

Pat only wants peace in the family and never dreamed doing a favor for his sister could drop him into so much hot water. Torn between what he’s always wanted and what is staring him in the face, someone is bound to get hurt.

Odds are it will be him.

But then, only the cardinal knows for sure.

Return to 1970 Indiana with Sunny, the first book in The Weather Girls series—get into the miniskirts, bell-bottoms, and Christian family values.

You’ll love Sunny for the music, the fashions, and the hilarious antics, because who can resist a romantic trip down memory lane?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

When I heard that Sunny was set in the ’70s, I got really excited because it is a time period that I am interested in learning more about, especially since my parents grew up in this era.

Sunny was a cute, light-hearted novel about starting over and learning more about who one is as an individual, and redemption.

I enjoyed learning more about ’70s culture, especially the kinds of music that was popular at the time, as well as other things. I loved getting to know the characters, especially Sunny. My heart went out to her for everything she experienced at the beginning of the novel. However, I loved her growth as a character as a result of these trials. I also loved getting to know here sisters and I am looking forward to learning more about them individually in the next books in the series. I loved getting to know her grandmother too. I also liked getting to know Pat, he was a great character, however I do wish he wasn’t as connected to the stuff that Sunny went through at the beginning, even though it was indirectly. If you’ve read the book you know what i am talking about.

I liked Sunny, it was a great light-hearted read with some romance sprinkled in a lot of ’70s vibes. 3.5/5 Stars.

*I received a copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

Jennifer Lynn Cary likes to say you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can’t take the Hoosier out of the girl. Now transplanted to the Arizona desert, this direct descendant of Davy Crockett and her husband of forty years enjoy time with family where she shares tales of her small town heritage and family legacies with their grandchildren. She is the author of The Crockett Chronicles series and The Relentless series as well as the stand-alone novella Tales of the Hob Nob Annex Café and her recent split-time novel The Traveling Prayer Shawl.

More from Jennifer Lynn

I was born in the 50’s, grew up in the 60’s and 70’s, and married in 1980. I relate to K.T. Oslin’s song “80’s Ladies” a little too well. 😉

Though we moved from Kokomo, Indiana in 1972, it always will be my hometown.

A few years ago my sister headed up a plan to have an annual Cousin’s Reunion in Kokomo. Two cousins came from Ohio and my sister and I came from the west to converge on our family who still call Kokomo home. Each trip back reminded me of how much I loved growing up there.

One day Bobby Hebb’s “Sunny” came on the Oldies station and caught my attention. Then I remembered the songs “Stormy” and “Windy” and wondered what it might be like for girls with that sort of name—especially if their surname was Day. Would their dispositions match their names? Why would their parents give them those names? The questions kept coming and I fell in love with the whole storyline.

The best part was putting the house I grew up in into the book(s). Yep, as you read the story, Hazel Day’s house is set up mostly like the one where I grew up only I added a den and an extra bedroom upstairs.

Ferguson House is based on the Seiberling Mansion—I love that place and tour it every chance I can when I get back to Kokomo. It’s amazing.

I also included favorite landmarks. Scotty’s Drive-In saw a lot of me in my early teen years. Great for grabbing a coke and not that far from either school or home.

The funny thing about memories is that they can blur and morph over time. Thankfully someone from my hometown has put together a Facebook page where I can ask questions and get more than enough answers.

Many locales I remember no longer exist, so writing about them helps them live on.

I hope you will check out Sunny and 1970 Kokomo and come back for the rest of The Weather Girls trilogy.

Abundant blessings!

Blog Stops

Blogging With Carol, October 6

CarpeDiem, October 6

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 7

By the Book, October 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 9

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 10

The Author Reads, October 10

Texas Book-aholic, October 11

Inklings and notions, October 12

Boondock Ramblings, October 12

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 13

Connie’s History Classroom, October 14

For Him and My Family, October 14

Batya’s Bits, October 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 16

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 16

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 17

deb’s Book Review, October 18

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 18

Vicky Sluiter, October 19

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon card with signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fdc/the-weather-girls-sunny-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Life Redeemed Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: A Life Redeemed

Author: Olivia Rae

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: June 16, 2021

Everyone has a secret, who can a queen trust?

Upon Queen Elizabeth’s order, Audrey Hayes travels to the borderlands of Scotland to learn where the fierce Laird Armstrong’s loyalties lie. Is he aligned with his mother’s English roots in support of the queen, or does he hold with the beliefs of his father, who wishes to see Mary of Scots on the English throne? The fate of Audrey’s family rests on her success in finding the answer.

After losing his lands in a wager and being betrayed by his kin, Gavin Armstrong entered a loveless marriage to obtain the funds to buy back his family home, Warring Tower. Now a widower, struggling against countless border wars, he is on the verge of losing his home and lands again. With few resources, he reluctantly makes another risky wager, one he cannot hope to win without trusting the secretive Audrey Hayes, a woman he suspects is an English spy.

As the two work together to save Warring Tower, their attraction to one another grows. But when Audrey finally gains the information she seeks for Queen Elizabeth, she realizes that the only way she can save her family is to betray the man she loves.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

A Life Redeemed was an interesting read set in a slightly alternate Elizabethan era. I was fascinated to learn about what life was like on the border between England and Scotland, especially with some who were loyalists and others who were Papists. It was also interesting to learn about the early days of the Reformation under John Knox. I’d known there had been a lot of tension during this time period, but I didn’t really understand the extent of it. 

I also enjoyed getting to know the characters. Audrey was a dynamic gentlewoman in that she was graceful and kind, but she also was not afraid to stand up for herself and others. I also liked getting to know Gavin, although he was very dislikable at times, especially with his first few interactions with Audrey. I also liked Thomas, Gavin’s son, although I felt like his character did a complete 180 near the end and I didn’t like it. Lady Francis was another favorite, especially her wisdom and forbearance with everyone. 

Plot-wise it was good, but there were times that the plot seemed to slow significantly and dragged a little. But I still liked it, and I am looking forward to hopefully picking up the next book, which follows a grown-up Thomas. 3.5/5 Stars

*I received a copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Author

Olivia Rae is an award-winning author of historical and contemporary inspirational romance. She spent her school days dreaming of knights, princesses and far away kingdoms; it made those long, boring days in the classroom go by much faster. Nobody was more shocked than her when she decided to become a teacher. Besides getting her Master’s degree, marrying her own prince, and raising a couple of kids, Olivia decided to breathe a little more life into her childhood stories by adding in what she’s learned as an adult living in a small town on the edge of a big city. When not writing, she loves to travel, dragging her family to old castles and forts all across the world.

Olivia is the winner of the Angel Award, Book Buyers Best Award, Golden Quill Award, New England Readers’ Choice Award, Southern Magic Contest, and the American Fiction Award. She is an Illumination Award Gold and Bronze medalist. She has also been a finalist in many other contests such as the National Readers’ Choice Awards, and the National Romance Fiction Awards. She is currently hard at work on her next novel.

More from Olivia

My novel, A Life Redeemed takes place in 16^th Century England and Scotland. A very popular dish at the time was the meat pie. Back then making such a dish took a lot of time. My Grandmother made a similar dish with modern day ingredients that you can whip together in no time. Cheesy meat pie is a real family pleaser and a delicious bit of history.

Medieval Cheesy Meat Pie

1 pound ground beef

½ cup chopped onion

1 – 8 oz. can of tomato sauce

¼ cup parsley

1 – 3oz. can chopped mushrooms (drained)

1/8 teaspoon pepper

¼ teaspoon dried oregano

2 packages (8 rolls) crescent rolls

3 eggs

Shredded cheese (mixed cheddar and mozzarella)

 

In skillet, brown beef, onion (drain). Stir in tomato sauce, parsley, mushrooms, pepper and oregano, then set aside. Unroll one package of crescent rolls, forming 12×6 inch rectangle. Seal edges and perforations together. Roll to fit in 9-inch pie plate, trim. Separate one egg and set aside the yoke. Beat egg white with remaining two eggs. Spread over half the dough. Spoon meat into shell, arranging cheese on top. Pour remaining egg mixture over cheese. Roll out second package of crescent rolls, sealing on top of pie. Beat remaining egg yoke and a tablespoon of water, brush on top of dough. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. If pastry gets too brown, cover with foil. Let stand for 10 minutes.

Blog Stops

Pause for Tales, October 9

Labor Not in Vain, October 9

Artistic Nobody, October 10 (Spotlight)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 11

Genesis 5020, October 11

Bigreadersite, October 12

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 14

Texas Book-aholic, October 15

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 16

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 16

deb’s Book Review, October 17

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 18

Connie’s History Classroom, October 19

Mary Hake, October 19

Inklings and notions, October 20

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 21

For Him and My Family, October 22

Betti Mace, October 22

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Olivia is giving away the grand prize packaged of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fe0/a-life-redeemed-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Petticoat Spy Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Petticoat Spy

Author: Elva Cobb Martin

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: October 5, 2021

A Charles Town belle and a blockade runner ignite fireworks in more ways than one during the American Revolution.

To Anna Grace Laurens, the war is like a distant bad dream until her family’s Charles Town plantation is burned and her parents murdered by those loyal to the king. She flees on horseback and leaps into the Cooper River to escape her pursuers.

As John Cooper Vargas sails his sloop down the river, he spots a woman diving into the water. After firing on the Tory raiders chasing her, he rescues her and offers to take her with his parents to an island hideaway for the duration of the war. But she has other plans, including revenge for her parents’ deaths. She insists he drop her off in Charles Town, even with the British planning a massive attack by land and sea to retake the city, the Pearl of the South.

John employs his sailing skills for the patriots, risking capture and death, but he enjoys his skirmishes with the British navy blockade to bring goods from the islands to aid the cause. But when Charles Town falls to the British, he docks his ship in a secret cove and joins Francis Marion’s militia. This decision lands him wounded on a harbor prison ship where more men die than on the battlefield.

Anna Grace braves the deprivations, first of a city barricaded against the British, and then one surrendered and ruled by fists of iron under the English flag and injustice. Can she find a way to rescue John before it’s too late?

As both American and English armies gather near Yorktown, Virginia, for a pivotal battle, can John and Anna’s love for each other and their faith in God preserve them and help forge a new nation?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

I was unsure of what to expect from The Petticoat Spy when I started reading it. Literally all I know going into it was that it was set in Charleston during the American Revolution and that our main character would be a spy somehow. However, I really enjoyed this novel. I felt like I learned so much more about the American Revolution, especially with how ruthless the British could be. I also loved how we the readers get to see how even families were divided on the issue of independence. And it was interesting to learn about how it affected Charleston (Charles Town) through its siege and capture. 

I was hooked from the first chapter, and flew through it. My only complaint is that the romance seemed to happen really quickly, and the whole spy plot seemed to very short too, I would have loved for there to have been more. 

Overall, I really enjoyed The Petticoat Spy and I enjoyed learning more about the American Revolution. I hope to read more from the author in the future. 4/5 Stars. 

* I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Author

Elva Cobb Martin is a wife, mother, and grandmother who lives in South Carolina with her husband and a mini-dachshund. A life-long student of history, her favorite city, Charleston, inspires her stories of romance and adventure. Her love of writing grew out of a desire to share exciting stories of courageous characters and communicate truths of the Christian faith to bring hope and encouragement. Connect with her on her web site at http://http://www.elvamartin.com.

More from Elva

I loved researching and writing this historical novel in a day when our nation’s true history is being threatened by political change agents. My faith in our godly heritage and the courage and faith of so many true Americans was confirmed as never before. Who can ever discount the wisdom, bravery, and escapades of Francis Marion, Andrew Pickens, and Thomas Sumter that helped save South Carolina after the British retook Charleston? Who can doubt the prayers and courage of George Washington and the Continental Army, and the many brave patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice, or who suffered privation and loss of property but who never gave up the dream of a free nation? We are the land of the free because of the brave.

In honor of the brave patriots, I placed quotes from leaders in this period at the head of each chapter. Here’s the quote I chose to introduce the book:

The hand of Providence has been so conspicuous in the course of the war that he must be worse than an infidel that lacks faith. –George Washington, August 20, 1778.

Many interesting tidbits I found in my research surprised me. Francis Marion was dubbed the Swamp Fox by his British pursuers who could never catch him. His battle tactics gave him the distinction of being the father of modern guerilla warfare and the inspiration for Mel Gibson’s character in The Patriot. Also, Marion did not drink alcoholic beverages. The drink he prescribed for himself and required of anyone who joined his militia was the old Roman drink of water mixed with a little vinegar. Today we know this as a fortifying concoction, and it probably prevented scurvy and was a natural antibiotic for the militia.

Another surprising tidbit I learned was about George Washington. Barely into his second term as president (1793) the popular French Ambassador Genet stirred up a furor with a lot of the colonists. He wanted to force Washington to join France in their renewed war against England. Having just won our independence, the president refused to lead our fledgling nation back into war. Ten thousand people gathered in the streets of Philadelphia, the nation’s then capital, day after day, and threatened to drag Washington out of his house, raucously demanding that America take up France’s struggle for liberty as France had done for America. The peace and unity of the new nation seemed to be hanging by a thread.

Just when it seemed like the new nation would fall over the precipice into anarchy, America was ultimately saved, according to the later retired Vice President Adams, by an outbreak of Yellow Fever in the capital city. “The coolest and firmest minds,” he told Jefferson, “have given their opinions to me, that nothing but Yellow Fever…could have saved the United States from a total Revolution of government.”

The exploding epidemic sent those who could afford to, fleeing the city, and those who couldn’t, locked themselves up inside their homes.

I discovered this incident of heated colonial protest during the recent rioting and destruction of property that rocked our American cities in the summer and fall of 2020. It actually gave me hope for our nation. It seems there have always been hotheads in every generation who rise up against the rule of law and order. However, America and our wonderful Constitution have been preserved, and we give God the praise, and pray for His continued help.

The Petticoat Spy is, above all, Anna Grace Laurens and John Cooper Vargas’ love story. It’s also the story of the patriot dream and victory over an undefeated British military while also dealing with serious supply shortages and conspiring neighbors who hated the dreamers.

It is my prayer that both threads will inspire hope and encouragement to all my readers.

Elva Cobb Martin

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 5

Life, Love, Writing, October 6

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 6

Rebecca Tews, October 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 8

Texas Book-aholic, October 9

Joanna Bair, October 9

Inklings and notions, October 10

Betti Mace, October 11

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 11

For Him and My Family, October 12

deb’s Book Review, October 13

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 14

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 15

Connect in Fiction, October 16

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 16

Connie’s History Classroom, October 17

She Lives To Read, October 18

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 18

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Elva is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11dd3/the-petticoat-spy-celebration-tour-giveaway

More Than A Heart Throb Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: More Thank A Heartthrob

Author: Kari Trumbo

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: September 28, 2021

Whoever said beauty is only skin deep lied. Beauty begins from within.

Jazzy is comfortable in her own skin, but the world cringes at it. Her personal armor since her teen years, makeup hides the scars that make anyone who sees them wince. The true test of any friend is: will they accept her without it?

Chris races to Hooper Island to escape a life-altering situation. The only person he knows and can trust there is a woman he met once. It wasn’t a good meeting. Lost and lonely after being the center of attention in Hollywood, he won’t risk losing the one friend he has.

Befriending Chris poses a risk Jazzy is loath to take. If anyone will reject her for her scars, it’ll be a guy whose life is focused on beauty. But as she helps him work through his own problems and his struggles with faith, will she gather the courage to pluck the plank from her own eye?

Once alone and vulnerable, will Jazzy and Chris rely on one another? Or will the force of their polar opposite lives push them apart—for good.

More Than a Heartthrob continues the Hooper Island stories of the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

Confession, I went into More Than a Heartthrob pretty blindly and in some ways I’m glad I did because I feel like I enjoyed discovering everything about the story as I went along. I loved getting to know Jazzy a lot more after the events of Matchmaker’s Best Friend. I also enjoyed getting to know Chris as he tries to figure out how his life as a Hollywood star got so complicated and who he is a part from the Heartthrob persona.

I loved how in some ways this was enemies to lovers, but also something that started as a friendship. I also liked the discussion about authenticity and honesty that take place throughout the book, and even addresses self-righteousness.

Side note: But did anyone else find Pen unlikable in this book, I found her to be kind of harsh towards Jazzy for not really good reasons.

Overall, I liked More Than A Heartthrob and I was engaged with the story throughout. I hope we get to see Jazzy and Chris in some of the future Independence Islands books. 3.75/5 Stars.

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

Kari writes swoony heroes and places that become characters with detail and heart.
Her favorite place to write about is the place her heart lives, (even if she doesn’t) South Dakota.

Kari loves reading, listening to contemporary Christian music, singing when no one’s listening, and curling up near the wood stove when winter hits. She makes her home in central Minnesota, land of frigid toes and mosquitoes the size of compact cars, with her husband of over twenty years. They have two daughters, two sons, one cat, and one hungry wood stove.

More from Kari

Hello Readers!

Welcome to the blog tour for More than a Heartthrob. I hope you’ve had a chance to read about the book a little. Thank you to today’s blog host and to Celebrate Lit for the tour and for publishing this great set.

Have you ever walked into a room and felt like everyone was staring at you for whatever reason? For me, it’s my weight. I’ve been overweight since my second year of marriage when I made a personal (and poor) decision to take a medication that made me gain a lot of weight quickly. And because of back pain, I’ve never been successful in shedding it.

For Jasmine (Jazzy), it’s her scars and lack of hair that she hides under makeup and wigs. She’s carefully kept them a secret her entire life. Only her friends and family know. She even has a beauty vlog (video blog) where she talks about faith and gives beauty tips.

But she isn’t happy. She’s lonely because it’s all fake. The skin she shows the world isn’t hers. I know I feel like that sometimes when I hide behind baggy clothes or sit behind a table so no one can really see me.

But, do people really think in their heads what we think they are? All that worry is spent, but it is fruitful? The answer to that, is no. Do some people judge us on our looks, behavior, or faith? Absolutely, but this book challenges the view that people “always” do.

Jazzy is challenged to forgo what she thinks makes her beautiful, it’s a twist on the old beauty and the beast story and I think you’re going to enjoy it. Especially because the guy who believes in her most, is the one society says should be the most critical, a Hollywood actor.

I hope, if you’re one of those people who wishes for a tall plant to hide behind when you’re in a crowded room, that you’ll find a kindred spirit in Jazzy.

Kari

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 2

Blossoms and Blessings, October 2

lakesidelivingsite, October 3

Texas Book-aholic, October 3

She Lives To Read, October 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 4

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 5

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, October 5 (Author Interview)

Inklings and notions, October 6

CarpeDiem, October 6

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, October 7

SusanLovesBooks, October 7

For Him and My Family, October 7

Connect in Fiction, October 8

deb’s Book Review, October 8

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 9

Splashes of Joy, October 9

Batya’s Bits, October 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 11

Blogging With Carol, October 11

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 12

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 12

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 13

Simple Harvest Reads, October 13 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, October 14

Kayem Reads, October 14

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 15

Daysong Reflections, October 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kari is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11dd0/more-than-a-heartthrob-celebration-tour-giveaway

If I Could Ask Jesus Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: If I Could Ask Jesus

Author: Donna Wyland

Genre: Picture Book

Release date: October 2020

Written in rhyme, If I Could Ask Jesus invites children to imagine the lives of angels in heaven. How do they grow wings on their backs? Do they have scooters and skateboards and snacks? At the end, children will be delighted to discover that God’s angels are really mighty warriors who watch over them and protect them each day.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

If I Could Ask Jesus is a cute picture book filled with questions that little kids are bound to ask about God, Heaven, and angels. While the illustrations and the questions don’t reflect what we as grown-ups know and believe about God, Heaven and angels, it does reflect the curiosities and ponderings of a little child. This is definitely a book I could see myself reading to my future children. I also think it could be used to foster more discussions with kids about God and Heaven.

Overall, I Could Ask Jesus is a short, cute, good picture book that I think little kids (and parents) will love. 

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Author

Donna Wyland is an award-winning author, editor, mother, grandmother and wife. She is the author of the best-selling children’s book, Your Home in Heaven, and a gift book, Surrender. She lives and writes in Columbus, Ohio in a small room with a view of where the pear trees bloom.

More from Donna

Having experienced much loss early in life, God gave me a heart and a longing to know all I can about living forever with Him in heaven. I did not set out to write If I Could Ask Jesus, but God through the Holy Spirit chose to create it through me. Whether writing for children or adults, I feel that my purpose is to bring the hope of heaven and the joy of the Lord to people wherever they are.

Blog Stops

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, October 4

Mary Hake, October 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 5

Texas Book-aholic, October 6

Spoken from the Heart, October 7

Lighthouse Academy Blog, October 7

Vicky Sluiter, October 8

Inklings and notions, October 9

For Him and My Family, October 10

deb’s Book Review, October 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 12

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 13

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 14

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 14

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 15

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 16

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Donna is giving away the grand prize package of a hardcover copy of the book and a $50 Magnolia Market gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11dd2/if-i-could-ask-jesus-celebration-tour-giveaway

Carmen’s Journey of Courage Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Carmen’s Journey of Courage

Author: Susan K Beatty

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction

Release date: September 14, 2021

Truly the odd woman out, Army weapons expert Carmen belongs to a family where PhDs are almost a second surname.

Oh, and she’s also persona non grata since that one little incident back in her teens. The one that her Tia Graviella still hasn’t forgiven her for. The one her parents and siblings will never let her forget.

A trip to Mexico City, complete with a bit of groveling at Tia Graviella’s feet, might just be what it takes to gain forgiveness and a fresh start with her family. Not only that, her tia is ailing, and someone needs to check up on her. Carmen can solve two problems with one would-do-anything-to-avoid-it trip.

Something is off, however, and as Carmen investigates, she begins to wonder if there’s more to her aunt’s troubles than ill health.

When Carmen sets her course on making things right, will it repair more than the wreckage from a youthful miscalculation?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

Carmen’s Journey of Courage was a quick read and I really enjoyed it.  However, I wish there had been more. I wanted to learn more about Carmen’s relationship with her great aunt and I would have love to have gotten to see some resolution with her sister, wo was my least favorite character, she was just awful. 

I loved being transported to Mexico City and learning a little bit more about the culture there, even if it was brief. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this novella and I can’t wait to read more from Susan K. Beatty in the future, especially her first novel. 4/5 Stars. 

*I received a copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit Publishing in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Author

“Courage: The intersection of faith and Grit”

Susan K. Beatty is passionate about finding courage through faith and grit, particularly through the trials of breast cancer. Her daughter is a metastatic breast cancer “thriver” and has been an inspiration for her writing. Susan retired from a full-time job in 2017 and is now pursuing a novel-writing career. Her first novel, “Faces of Courage,” is in revision. Susan is the author of “An Introduction to Home Education” (AKA “California Homeschool Manual”), was the assistant director of the SoCal Christian Writers’ Conference and is the president of her local ACFW-OC Chapter. She is a professional writer/journalist. Susan is proof you can begin a fiction writing career after age seventy.

More from Susan

Have you ever known in your heart you needed to ask someone to forgive you, but the thought scared you so much you were convinced they would reject you? So scared you couldn’t bring yourself to ask?

Sometimes we are more fearful of man than God, conveniently ignoring the responsibility to be right with others and to live in peace. It’s hard to live in peace when that thing, that whatever it was we need to apologize for, is lying like a lump of toxic waste in our hearts.

In Carmen’s Journey of Courage, Carmen ignored her need to ask for forgiveness for years. Well, she didn’t really ignore it, she just kept burying it every time she thought of it. Which was often.

It took an outside force to get her positioned in such a way that she had to face the situation.

Carmen is the odd woman out in her family. Every one of her siblings possesses enough educational degrees to wallpaper a room. But not Carmen. Her two older sisters’ treatment of her pushed Carmen in the opposite direction and toward a desire to find her own way on her own terms. Instead of college, Carmen enlisted and excelled in the army.

As God sometimes does, He uses the exact person Carmen would prefer to avoid—her oldest sister—to get her to Mexico City and their great aunt. Circumstances are not what she expects. She needs to face more than her tía and solve a mystery with the aid of her army training.

It’s a journey of courage.

We all face tough decisions. I wrote Carmen’s Journey of Courage to inspire bravery when life is hard.

Find your courage at the intersection of faith and grit.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, October 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 2

lakesidelivingsite, October 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 3

Inklings and notions, October 4

For Him and My Family, October 5

deb’s Book Review, October 6

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 7

Betti Mace, October 8

Splashes of Joy, October 8

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 9

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 10

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 11

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 12

An Author’s Take, October 12

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Susan is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11dcb/carmen-s-journey-of-courage-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Warrior’s Heart Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: A Warrior’s Heart

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: August 31, 2021

 

Brielle Durand still feels haunted by the massacre that killed her mother a dozen years before. Vowing to never let it happen again, she’s risen to be the key defender for her people’s peace-loving French settlement living in hidden caves in the Canadian Rockies. When a foreigner wanders too near to their secret homes, she has no choice but to disarm and capture him. But now, what to do with this man who looks at her in a strange way and insists he can be trusted?

Hoping to escape past regrets, Evan MacManus ventured into the unknown, assigned to discover if the northern mountains contain an explosive mineral that might help America win the War of 1812. Despite being taken prisoner, Evan is determined to complete his mission. But when that assignment becomes at odds with his growing appreciation of the villagers and Brielle, does he follow through on the promise he’s made to his government or take a risk on the path his heart is leading him down? Either choice will cause harm to someone.

Brielle and Evan must reconcile the warring in their hearts, if they’ve any hope to find the peace the seek.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

I believe that this is my second or third book by Misty M. Beller that I have read, and while it is not my favorite, it was still enjoyable. My only complaint was that not much happened, but that might have to do with the fact that this is the first book in a series and it is setting things up for what happens throughout the rest of the series. 

It was intriguing to learn about the hidden village of Laurent in the Canadian Rockies. However, I wish there had been an author’s note about whether or not the village existed or not, or a village similar to it. But it was fascinating to learn how this settlement would have lived. 

I also enjoyed getting to know the characters, especially Brielle and Evan. I love how Brielle was good balance between fierce and feminine and the genuine care she has for her people. And I liked getting to know Evan and how he is a man of integrity who wishes to complete his mission but wants to do so without it causing harm to the people of Laurent. I hope we get more of their story in the next book. I also hope we get to see Audrey have a happy ending too! 

Overall, while this isn’t my favorite Misty M. Beller book, it was still an interesting read, so much so that I tried to see if there was any information about the next book in the series (which I couldn’t find because it might be too soon). 3.5/5 Stars. 

*I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Author

Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

She was raised on a farm in South Carolina, so her Southern roots run deep. Growing up, her family was close, and they continue to keep that priority today. Her husband and children now add another dimension to her life, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

God has placed a desire in Misty’s heart to combine her love for Christian fiction and the simpler ranch life, writing historical novels that display God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

More from Misty

A secret village living in hidden caves for a century…

One of the fun things about being a writer is letting your imagine run away with itself at times. In general, I’ve never considered myself a creative person. Not like my grandmother, who’s an amazing artist and decorator. She can look at something plain and normal and, with a little paint, create something truly beautiful.

But little by little, I’ve finally learned that just because I don’t feel creative like she is, I still have an imagination that can come up with intriguing ideas.

For example, I was listening to a historical podcast a few years ago that talked about the Vikings and the female warriors who would sometimes gain fame among them. As the hosts talked about the first Viking raids to North America, I started thinking… “What if one of those groups went farther west than any of us thought? What if they found the Rocky Mountains and lived there in a hidden community for centuries?” The thought took hold, and little by little, the idea for the Brides of Laurent series came to life.

I eventually changed the village to be a French settlement named Laurent. The village’s primary warrior was a woman named Brielle Durand, who’d worked hard to win her place as Le Commandant, leader of the Guards and Hunters. I love Brielle’s strength and wit, but also how real her personal struggles became as I wrote her character.

Add in a mountain man spy working for the United States government, and you have the secret for a romance with sparks to light up the mountain sky!

I pray you love A Warrior’s Heart, the first book in this new series. And keep an eye on some of the other characters in the book who might get their own stories soon!

Blessings!

Misty

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, September 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 30

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 30

An Author’s Take, September 30

Remembrancy, October 1

Bigreadersite, October 1

lakesidelivingsite, October 2

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, October 2

Joanna Bair, October 2

Inklings and notions, October 3

To Everything There Is A Season, October 3

Reviewingbooksplusmore, October 3

Wishful Endings, October 4

For Him and My Family, October 4

Mary Hake, October 4

deb’s Book Review, October 5

Life of Literature, October 5

Betti Mace, October 6

Blossoms and Blessings, October 6

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 6

Blessed & Bookish, October 7

Connie’s History Classroom, October 7

For the Love of Literature, October 8

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 8

Connect in Fiction, October 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 9

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 10

Through the Fire Blogs, October 10

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 10

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 11

Simple Harvest Reads, October 11 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 12

Pause for Tales, October 12

Live. Love. Read., October 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11dc9/a-warrior-s-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway

Elite Blog Tours and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Elite

Author: Kristen Young

Genre: Dystopian/Science Fiction

Release date: September 14, 2021

Where do you find safety when your world is falling apart?

Apprentice Flick thought the Elite Academy was the answer to all her problems. But the revelation of her past turned everything upside down. Now, she is caught between two worlds set on a collision course.

Will she embrace the chaotic memories that flood her every waking moment? Or will she run to the security of her Elite training?

Discovering her parents’ identities takes her to a secret underground bunker where she finds new friends, opportunities, and maybe even love. But Flick must decide where her allegiances lie soon, or the Triumph of Love festival might bring about her demise.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

I need to confess that I had not read the first book, Apprentice, before jumping into Elite, and while there were a few times I felt lost, I still really enjoyed Elite. So much so that I want to go back and read Apprentice (hopefully before the next book comes out!).

I loved being immersed in the dystopian world of the Love Collective, however, it was unnerving to read at times because I could easily see the parallels with our own world. It really seemed like something that could happen, especially the Love Collective and it’s rules, it honestly reminded me a lot of today’s cancel culture. Yet it was also fascinating and I have so many questions about this world, questions I am sure that will be answered in time.

I also found it interesting that God is referred t as the Composer, Christ as Lyric, and the Holy Spirit as Muse. Is this because their names were forgotten throughout history? Or is there some other reason? In some ways it made sense, but it also seemed like an odd choice. However, I did love seeing how Kerr Flick (Cadence) is tasked with learning the different parts of the Song (the Bible), to me I can imagine that this is similar to what the early Church had to do, as well as in countries today that are more hostile to the open worship of Christ.

Overall, this was a very compelling and interesting read and I can’t wait to read more set in this world, as well as see what happens to Cadence and the rest of the Sirens next. 4/5 Stars.

*I received a copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

A Scottish-born Australian author, Kristen Young has worked in children’s and youth ministry for decades. She writes fiction and non-fiction for teens, and always has a notebook on hand to capture stray story ideas. In her spare time she loves hanging out with her family, watching movies with subtitles, and enjoying a little too much chocolate.

More from Kristen

“Fairy tales do not tell children the dragons exist. Children already know that dragons exist. Fairy tales tell children the dragons can be killed.” ― G.K. Chesterton.

Why do we write fiction? There are lots of reasons, really. We write because we have something
to say. Maybe we write because we just love creating stories. Perhaps we love to entertain. Or
perhaps we write because the stories want to be heard, and we’re just letting them fly.

Or perhaps we know that people want stories for a deeper reason. When life is hard, and work
is a struggle, and the world seems just a little too difficult, it’s a great time to escape into a
different place. Another world, where even though bad things happen, we know there will be a
happy ending.

The responsibility of authors is a heavy one. Our readers entrust their imaginations to us for a
short time, allowing us to draw them into a different place. We give them people to follow, and
let them see the world through other eyes. Dilemmas, threats, relationships and opportunities
— all of these things provide a journey for readers, and give them the chance to explore
alternate ways of dealing with life’s problems. We give people the thrill of knowing that even
under the heaviest challenges, there is a chance to grow and survive.

Chesterton said that children didn’t need to learn about dragons, but to know the dragons could
be overcome. Perhaps even as adults we need a little bit of that, too.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, September 30

Artistic Nobody, September 30 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 1

Inklings and notions, October 2

Inside the Wong Mind, October 2

For Him and My Family, October 3

deb’s Book Review, October 4

Library Lady Kid’s Lit, October 5

Simple Harvest Reads, October 5 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 6

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 7

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 8

Blogging With Carol , October 8

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 9

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 10

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 11

Worthy2Read, October 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 12

Through the fire blogs, October 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kristen is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11dca/elite-celebration-tour-giveaway

Creative Fusion Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Creative Fusion

Author: Charity Bowman Webb

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Personal Growth

Release date: September 21, 2020

From the beginning of time, God endowed people with His creative intending for them to rule and steward over all the earth.

But Satan—once heaven’s most beautiful and creative angel—convinced Adam and Eve that the fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil would give them a power that they already had. The moment that they ate the fruit, they handed their authority over to Satan. Oppression ruled the world; instead of the luminosity of heaven’s pattern advancing through the planet, creeping darkness took hold.

The enemy knows the highly effective powers of creativity all too well. Despite being cut off from its divine origin, he uses it with vigor to effectively communicate his counterfeit and repetitive message across the world.

Creative Fusion follows the interlinking tabernacle pattern of God laid out from Genesis through Revelation to provide Christians with the answers to reclaim the Lord’s creative energy and His DNA that He placed within us.

Author Charity Bowman-Webb wants readers to discover the magnificent wisdom in Scripture that will help them influence every area of society and harvest souls for God’s kingdom.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

This is a tricky book for me to review because while I get the author’s intention, I didn’t agree with her on a lot of things. However, I think it also has a lot to do with how I’ve been taught as a Christian and the fact that I consider myself a cessationist, and this book is probably not one that cessationists would get a lot out of because it talks a lot about dreams and visions that happen today. So with that in mind, it was hard for me to read Creative Fusion, and uncomfortable at times because it challenged my predispositions on those subject matters. It’s not my place to say whether the author is wrong because it could very well be that I am wrong, but it is something I want to study for myself, especially in Scripture.

Again, I did appreciate the author’s intent, as someone who considers  herself a creative person, I would agree that the Church needs to be more open when it comes to the arts and not just that which is produced by Pureflix. However, I did not agree with a lot of the points she made to back up her ideas. But I would like to share a few quotes that I really liked and agreed with, as well as a couple that made me think too:

“The combinations of a person’s callings, gifts, and skills can result in many unexpected outcomes, that God uses for His glory” (Loc. 310).

“Dependency on God will cause continued exploration, which, in turn, will produce extraordinary advances for good upon the earth.” (Loc. 446).

“To reduce the aesthetic arts, beauty, and other creative areas as second-class citizens in God’s kingdom makes no sense if one considers the full breadth of Scripture” (Loc. 1470).

Overall, while I agreed with the author’s intent, there was a lot that I disagreed with her on. However, this book wasn’t for me, but I don’t think it is the author’s fault, but rather my own presuppositions on something like spiritual gifts.

*I received a copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

Charity Bowman-Webb is passionate about the prophetic and creativity. Her goal is to equip people to discover the creative DNA that God has planted in His children so that they can change culture and live their full design.

Charity works to ignite creative and pioneering ways of releasing God’s Spirit in the church and on the mission field. As the director of Streams Creative House, a mission of Streams Ministries International, Charity’s heart and calling are to help believers explore God though a depth of relationship, develop maturity through their revelatory gifts, and see restoration and understanding of the creativity of God released to transform society. She is passionate about helping Christians deepen their relationship with God by exploring their spiritual gifts and God-given creativity for worship, intercession, and mission.

In her native Scotland, she led the national creative team for CLAN (Christians Linked Across the Nation) for six years, helping to form a new pioneering community. She is also the cofounder of Blue Flame Ministry and helped to pioneer an evangelistic movement in prophetic and creative mission, training, and leading teams into secular settings.

Charity is also the author of Limitless: God’s Creative Mandate for His Church. She speaks regularly at ministries and churches for conferences, courses, and special events throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Germany, South Africa, and Singapore.

Charity and her husband, Alan, have two daughters and make their home in Inverness in the Scottish Highlands.

More from Charity

We believe that God has planted a creative DNA in every single person (Genesis 1); and when

we understand this and how to apply it, we tap into an incredibly powerful, unending source of

wisdom and creativity for any calling. streamscreativehouse.com

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 29

Inklings and notions, September 30

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 1

Texas Book-aholic, October 2

deb’s Book Review, October 3

Cats in the Cradle Blog, October 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 5

Boondock Ramblings, October 5

For Him and My Family, October 6

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 7

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 8

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 9

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 10

Artistic Nobody, October 11 (Spotlight)

Mary Hake, October 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Charity is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11b63/creative-fusion-celebration-tour-giveaway

Bandana Acres: Nibbler and Captain Make Peace Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Bandana Acres: Nibbler and Captain Make Peace

Author: Kathy J. Perry

Genre: Early Reader Chapter Book

Release date: May 1, 2018

This makes me mad! What should I do?

Nibbler the beaver works hard to keep his lodge and dam perfectly patched. A river otter knocks a hole in his great work. Now he’s so angry, he could almost spit nails. Can he learn how to handle his anger?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

I was excited to read another installment in the Bandana Acres series. Even though I am not in the target demographic I still enjoyed it and will definitely be holding onto it for my future kids.

I loved the theme of being a peacemaker and how Ollie helps Nibbler to see that Captain didn’t know he was damaging someone’s house. I think there is also a lesson on being patient with others, especially if they come from a different background. I love how Nibbler and Captain become friends and help each other out.

Again, I loved the questions at the end and the glossary of words that might be unfamiliar to young readers. The illustrations are also fantastic!

*I received a copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

After My Parents Passed,

I re-evaluated what I was doing with my life and my contribution to others. A former classroom teacher and homeschool mom, I’ve always had a heart for educating kids.

In 2016 my daughter and I attended a local arts and crafts fair where I stumbled upon some cute children’s art and thought, “That’s what I can do! Write children’s books.”

I set my mission and started my own publishing company, Chickadee Words, LLC. I would do my best to affect our youth through wonderful stories full of timeless character struggles.

More from Kathy

Regardless of age, conflict resolution is something everyone must learn. Children need to understand the tools/perception necessary to be a peacemaker. Whether shy, aggressive, or in-between, this book can help youngsters deal with anger.

Nibbler works hard to keep his lodge dry and his pond from leaking through his dam. A happy-go-lucky river otter happens by and destroys some of his work. He tries several things to get him to leave, but nothing works. Ollie, the farm dog, asks him some questions which lead Nibbler to a peaceful solution.

Special things about this book (and series) include:

1. Proven easy-to-read font for early readers (Sassoon Primary)
2. In full-color with original watercolor artwork.
3. Leveled by Lexile and Fountas & Pinnell (F&P) for dialing in to your child’s reading level.
4. Yellow words are the character’s inside thoughts (rather than italics, which I thought would be harder to read). Kids enjoy the color. In fact, struggling readers love to read just the colored parts to start – and then want to continue reading! (Each book has its own color for this.)
5. A glossary of newer words with definitions.
6. A “What If” section for discussion with five questions about the story, and five questions of how the theme plays out in real life. (Parents and teachers love these books!)
7. Nibbler and Captain Make Peace is available in hardcover and softcover.

Help your kids learn to read with this fun story and cute watercolor illustrations. This early reader chapter book is perfect for ages 5-8 and can usually be read alone by 2nd or 3rd grades.

Blog Stops

Lights in the Dark World, October 2

For Him and My Family, October 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 3

Texas Book-aholic, October 4

Inklings and notions, October 5

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 6

deb’s Book Review, October 7

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 8

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 9

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 10

The Adventures of a Traveler’s Wife, October 11

Mary Hake, October 11

Vicky Sluiter, October 12

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 13

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 14

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathy is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card, a softcover copy of the book, digital artwork with motivational phrase, and a custom Hoo-Rag (better bandana). Covered with artwork from the Bandana Acres series, it’s made from soft, knit cloth. Diagrams and video reference illustrate the various methods of use.)

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11dd1/bandana-acres-nibbler-and-captain-make-peace-celebration-tour-giveaway

First Line Fridays #65 – Last Christmas in Paris by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb

Hello everyone,

Welcome to another installment of First Line Fridays hosted by Reading is My Superpower.

Last Christmas in Paris by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb

“Life is forever changed without her; without the sense of her somewhere near.”

Happy Reading,

Janelle L. C.

Dangerous Pursuits Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Dangerous Pursuits

Author: Alford, Harris, Heckenkramp, Hickey, Holder, Kendig, McCoy, Mentink, Nemeth, Putman, Reed, Terry, Worth

Genre: Christian/Clean Romantic Mystery and Suspense

Release date: October 12, 2021

Crisp Days. Cold Nights. Dangerous Pursuits.

The chill of fall brings with it a hint of peril in Dangerous Pursuits, a clean and Christian suspense anthology featuring some of today’s most popular female authors.

Start your fall off right with 15 gripping tales of Clean and Christian suspense from today’s most popular ladies of mystery and suspense. Join Mary Alford, Lisa Harris, Therese Heckenkamp, Cynthia Hickey, Gina Holder, Ronie Kendig, Dana R Lynn, Shirlee McCoy, Dana Mentink, J. Carol Nemeth, Cara Putman, Sharee Stover, Terri Reed, Alana Terry, Lenora Worth on a dangerous journey filled with mystery and suspense that will keep you turning pages until the very. Last. One.

Just .99 cents until October 12th.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

Dangerous Pursuits was a great collection of romantic suspense novels, with variety in the settings and plots. I loved how the plots involved things like a lab that is developing some sort of treatment for COVID; or a former hacker who must use her skills to save her younger brother; intrigue in the Rockies; and a drug trafficker in the heart in of Amish country. Like I said there is something for everyone, plus it’s a great way to get to know some of the top Christian mystery and suspense authors.

Some of my favorite novels from this collection were Stepping from the Shadows by Cara Putnam; Deadly Catalyst by Sharee Stover; Deadly Heights by Ronie Kendig and Sleep Deprived by Therese  Heckenhamp. However, I enjoyed each and every story in this collection and look forward to reading more from each of these authors. But the aforementioned stories are the one that stood out the most to me because of their plots, characters, and even some of the romance.

I highly recommend Dangerous Pursuits for anyone who is new to mystery and suspense, and to those who are long-time fans of the genre. There is a little something for everyone in this anthology. 4/5 Stars.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Authors

The authors of Dangerous Pursuits are excited to present 15 tales of mystery and suspense to readers for a limited time. From suspense to mystery, clean to Christian, these authors have come together to create a collection of tales that will leave you flipping pages until the very last one.

More from Mary

Have you ever wondered how a book collection comes to be. Well, it all starts with an idea.

Dangerous Pursuits was the brainchild of author Dana Mentink who reached out to me with the idea of creating a book collection featuring multiple authors. We decided we wanted to try and make the USA Today Bestsellers List with this collection which is quite the challenge.

With the help of Cynthia Hickey, who created the fabulous cover for Dangerous Pursuits, we set out to put together a collection of mystery and suspense books to please our readers.

We reached out to some of our fellow authors who graciously agreed to help, and now we are blessed to have this amazing line-up of 15 wonderful authors. Lisa Harris, Therese Heckenkamp, Cynthia Hickey, Gina Holder, Ronie Kendig, Loree Lough, Dana R Lynn, Shirlee McCoy, Dana Mentink, J. Carol Nemeth, Cara Putman, Sharee Stover, Terri Reed, Lenora Worth, and myself, Mary Alford.

The book is set to release on October 12^th. Cynthia gave the cover a mysterious fall feel that we believe will appeal to readers who love mystery and suspense. Next we came up with a catchy blurb that hopefully adds to the fall suspense theme;

Crisp Days. Cold Nights. Dangerous Pursuits.

The chill of fall brings with it a hint of peril in Dangerous Pursuits, a clean and Christian suspense anthology featuring some of today’s most popular female authors.

And so, Dangerous Pursuits was born.

I am very proud to be part of this collection. With so many talented authors bringing their best, I believe our readers will find something they enjoy, and we look forward to each of you reading it.

Because above all else, it’s all about the story.

Blessings always,

Mary Alford

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 1

HookMeInABook, October 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 3

The Adventures of a Traveler’s Wife, October 4

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 4

Texas Book-aholic, October 5

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 6

Inklings and notions, October 7

For Him and My Family, October 8

Blogging With Carol, October 8

deb’s Book Review, October 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 10

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 11

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 12

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 13

Betti Mace, October 14

Batya’s Bits, October 14

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, the Dangerous Pursuits Authors are giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and an eBook copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11dce/dangerous-pursuits-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Sixth Trumpet Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Sixth Trumpet

Author: Caryl McAdoo

Genre: Mid-Grade & Young Adult Dystopian

Release date: June 22, 2021

And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, a day, a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men. Revelation 9:15The sixth trumpet has sounded. The world is at war.
Compelled by a night terror, Jackson leaves the relative safety of Red River County on a quest to rescue his missing mother. He plans a quick dash to retrieve her from bondage in Rockwall, but he is thwarted by others who need rescuing at every turn. Big girls, little girls, a medium-size boy, the smartest kid he’s ever known, and one giant dog comprise his army. If there is a God in Heaven, is He really watching out for him? Fifteen-year-old Jackson still hasn’t decided.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

Before I get started with my review, I would like to state that I had not read the first book, The King’s Highwway, which I recommend doing so before reading The Sixth Trumpet. However, I was able to piece together a good portion of what had happened before this installment. But I probably also missed out on some of the character development that takes place in the first book.

I liked The Sixth Trumpet, however, I am still confused as to whether this is set in the “End Times” or if it is just society in decay after an EMP. I know one of the characters says something that alludes to the end times. Also, the dreams that Jackson shares with Al also confused me, but I guess it will make more sense in the next book, since it seems to play a big part in it.

I liked getting to know the characters and watching their relationship and friendships grow over the novel, as well as the characters they meet along the way. However, I found Aria really annoying and bossy. She is so presumptuous about her relationship with Jackson and a lot of other things. I especially didn’t like how she threatened one of the kids they meet to a beating if she didn’t listen to her. I get she is trying to be a maternal figure, but she’s only about 16/17, only a few years older than those kids. Yeah, I don’t like her at all. I did really liked Boggs the dog, although I was confused as to who the Old Man was, is it an angel, a prophet, God? All i  know is that there is something supernatural about him.

Overall, The Sixth Trumpet was okay, but I probably would have enjoyed it a little bit more if I had read the first one. However, I did like it enough that my interest has been piqued for the next book, just to see how everything is wrapped up. 3/5 Stars.

About the Author

Award-winning author Caryl McAdoo prays her story gives God glory, and those best-selling stories—fifty-nine titles now—delight Christian readers around the world. The prolific writer also enjoys singing the new songs the Lord gives her—listen at YouTube! Sharing four children and twenty-one grandsugars (three greats), Caryl and Ron (her high-school-sweetheart-husband of fifty-plus years) live in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas. The McAdoos wait expectantly for God to open the next door.

More from Caryl

Some would call THE SIXTH TRUMPET a dystopian fantasy, and it is . . . but it’s also possible that tomorrow, an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) could be detonated over the Midwest and throw America back into the 1800s, before electricity and instant communication we enjoy today.

The “Days of Dread Trilogy” stories are packed with adventure as their young hero, Jackson Allison, his genius and devoted sidekick Albert Einstein Hawking, and his sort-of girlfriend Aria face dangers at every turn trying to save others.

An editor asked, “Why would you write a book about the end times for mid-grade and young adult readers?”
My answer?

“To let them know through reading them that when tough times get here—and they will come—I want my readers to realize God will be right there with them and protect and provide. My hope is to build their faith.”

Jackson starts out an agnostic, but God loves agnostics, too. Jesus died on the cross for them like He did for you and me. He loves Jackson so much that He shows him His power and provision time and time again—

Of course, the boy’s mother and sister, and grandparents, and Uncle Roy are all praying for his salvation. We know what can happen when God’s people pray! How many times have you prayeds, “Father! Whatever it takes, draw my loved one to Your heart!”

Jackson, though, is a stubborn as a Texas Ranger on a mission! His lieutenant succumbs to Holy Spirit’s calling in this story, but not Jackson, although he is being drawn to believe by all the things he cannot explain.

Who do you know who would love these stories? Besides you, I mean! I know you will! Who do you know who needs to read them?

Blog Stops

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 23

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, September 24

Mary Hake, September 24

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 26

Texas Book-aholic, September 27

Inklings and notions, September 28

Girls in White Dresses, September 29

deb’s Book Review, September 30

For Him and My Family, October 1

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 2

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 3

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 4

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 6

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Caryl is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11b5a/the-sixth-trumpet-celebration-tour-giveaway

Dangerous Amish Showdown Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Dangerous Amish Showdown

Author: Mary Alford

Genre: Amish Suspense

Release date: August 24, 2021

Under siege in Amish country…

She must fight for their lives.

Gunshots shatter Willa Lambright’s placid Montana evening—and that’s before she discovers on-the-run lawman Mason Shetler on her doorstep. Willa hadn’t glimpsed her childhood friend since he’d turned his back on Amish country years before. Now the US marshal’s returned with an injured partner, a young witness he must protect at all costs…and vicious Mafia agents dead set on making sure none of them survive.

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

I need to confess that I was in a little bit of a reading slump when I read Dangerous Amish Showdown and as a result I did not enjoy it as much as I would have if I had not been in a slump. However, I still found it to be an interesting story and I was definitely on the edge of my seat up until the last chapter. 

I loved the setting in Montana, and I loved getting to know the characters, although there was not a whole lot of character development since the novel does take place in the span of 24/48 hours. 

I really liked Willa and Mason and how they try to keep everyone safe. And the author did a great job of making me dislike the villain and his cronies. 

Overall, I did find Dangerous Amish Showdown somewhat enjoyable and I highly recommend it for fans of Amish fiction who are looking for something with a bit more suspense and for fans of suspense. 3.5/5 Stars. 

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling author Mary Alford loves giving her readers the unexpected. Her titles have appeared on the USA Today list, Publisher’s Weekly bestseller list, and have finaled in the Daphne Du Maurier award of excellence in mystery, The Beverly, The Maggie, and The Selah Awards.

Mary is an avid reader. She loves to cook, can’t face the day without coffee, and her three granddaughters are the apple of her eye. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two spoiled cats and a dog who thinks he owns the place.

More from Mary

When I first heard of the title for my latest Love Inspired Suspense, I smiled. Dangerous Amish Showdown reminds me of the old westerns where the good guys face off with the bad guys and always win. As a child I loved watching them, mostly because my dad loved them so much, and yes, a big draw for me besides sharing the time with him, was seeing the good guys win. It’s what I try to put into every single book I write, and it’s exactly what happens in Dangerous Amish Showdown.

Lately, I find myself reminiscing a lot about childhood things such as watching old westerns with my dad, and smiling at those simpler times.

In Dangerous Amish Showdown, it takes coming back to his simple childhood Amish community for Mason Shetler to realize how special that life once was for him. Through the courage found in a little girl who has lost everything, and the strength of a woman whose future is uncertain, Mason discovered what he had been searching for all along.

I truly hope you enjoy Mason and Willa’s fight to protect young Samantha and the love they find along the way. And I hope their happy ending leaves you with a smile on your face, and maybe takes you back to a simpler time in your life.

Blessings always,

Mary Alford

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 22

Maureen’s Musings, September 22

Hebrews 12 Endurance, September 23

The Avid Reader, September 23

Genesis 5020, September 23

Texas Book-aholic, September 24

Vicarious Living, September 24

Inklings and notions, September 25

Blossoms and Blessings, September 25

Betti Mace, September 26

For Him and My Family, September 26

Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 27 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

deb’s Book Review, September 27

Older & Smarter?, September 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 28

Bizwings Blog, September 28

For the Love of Literature, September 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 29

Living the Good Life, September 29

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 30

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, September 30 (Author Interview)

She Lives To Read, October 1

Bigreadersite, October 1

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 2

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 2

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 3

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 3

Mary Hake, October 3

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 4

Simple Harvest Reads, October 4 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 5

HookMeInABook, October 5

 

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mary is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11b56/dangerous-amish-showdown-celebration-tour-giveaway

Searching for Seven Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Searching for Seven

Author: Tyler D. Smith

Genre: Christian Devotional

Release date: June 2, 2020
The Christian life is meant to be an adventure. Searching for Seven takes readers on a journey of searching for God and searching for your own faith seven days a week. It is a quick read, with lots of stories, Scripture, and encouragement

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts

I honestly don’t know where to start with this review because I wasn’t a huge fan of this book. In fact, I found it somewhat generic and even shallow at times. Maybe it’s because the deck was already stacked against this book because of books I had recently read that deal with a similar subject matter.  That’s not to say that searching fr Seven might not be beneficial for those who are new believers, or even teenagers, I think it can be. But as someone who has been a believer for well over a decade and churched her whole life, it just didn’t do much for me. And that might be because I have read quite a few books on the idea of living for Christ every day of the week, and was taught this most of my life.

Even though found Searching for Seven just okay, there were a couple of quotes that did stick out to me near the start of the book:

“Following Jesus isn’t about one big event in our lives…It’s about leaning into what He’s teaching you along the way, even if you don’t realize what He was doing until years later” (4).

“We aren’t promised a happy life on earth. We aren’t even promised tomorrow. But we are promised that Go will be with us in the midst of our pain. And we’re promised an eternal joy for all who believe” (14).

Overall, Searching for Seven was just okay. The author has good intentions, and I’m sure that to the right reader this would be a great tool! 3/5 Stars.

About the Author

Tyler D. Smith is a pastor, NBA sportswriter, and basketball coach. He has also worked in the Christian music industry. He resides in Indiana with his wife Katelyn, and their two daughters Addi and Ellie.

More from Tyler

The Christian life is meant to be a journey, and we were made to seek Truth every day of the week! Searching for Seven is a quick read, filled with fun stories and Scripture to encourage readers, no matter where they are currently at Spiritually. Tyler D. Smith is an NBA sportswriter, coach, author, and speaker. Join him on the journey of a lifetime!

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, September 21

Through the Fire Blogs, September 22 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 23

Inklings and notions, September 24

Simple Harvest Reads, September 25 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 25

deb’s Book Review, September 26

Blossoms and Blessings, September 27 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 28

For Him and My Family, September 29

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 30

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 30

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 1

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 2

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 3

Artistic Nobody, October 4 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Tyler is giving away the grand prize package of $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/119f8/searching-for-seven-celebration-tour-giveaway

First Line Fridays #64 – The Slave Dancer by Paula Fox

Hello everyone,

Welcome to another installment of First Line Fridays hosted by Reading is My Superpower.

The Slave Dance by Paula Fox

“In a hinged wooden box upon the top of which was carved a winged fish, my mother kept the tools of her trade.”

Happy Reading,

Janelle L. C.

Board Game Review: Disney Villainous

Hello everyone,

Today’s review is on the board/card game Disney Villainous.

Taken from Amazon.

Villanous is a fun and creative board and card game created by Ravenburger. Players get to choose from six Disney villains: Maleficient, Ursula, Jafar, Prince John, the Queen of Hearts, and Captain Hook. Each player is trying to complete an objective for their specific villain before the other players, however, other players can interfere with thier progress by pciking a card from their fate deck and using it to stall their progress. The goal of the game is to complete your villain’s objective and become “the worst of them all.”

While game play can be confusing at first, Villainous is a lot of fun because each game is different, especially since you have the opportunity to play as a different Disney villain each time, which means you have different objective to complete.

This game is especially fun for fans of Disney, especially die-hard fans of the Disney villains. The artwork of the baords and the cards is gorgeous and the different actions that each villain has was very well-thought out. And it is a fun way to compete agaisnt your friends and/or family. It is also the perfect game that can be played between 2 players or more.

Happy Reading,

Janelle L. C.

Catch Me If You Can Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Catch Me If You Can

Author: Carole Brown

Genre: Romantic Suspense with a touch of quirkiness

Release date: August 5, 2021

The big cat sat on the oversized rock, ears pointed toward the sky, every muscle taut, every sense at the ready.

“S-s-shut up and f-f-forget it. You’ve s-seen nothing and know nothing. I won’t warn you again. G-g-got it?”

The cat’s head swiveled, his ears twitching as if catching the hint of threat in the whisper. A soft hiss slid from his open mouth and reinforced the overtone of evil pressing in upon the scene. Within hours, lies and dark secrets are slithering all over the campground.

Coaxed into finding the animal killer at Jamieson’s Outfitters, Tara Layne, with her sidekick, Boet, is welcomed by a threatening whisper and the unfriendly eyes of a rugged and devastatingly handsome manager. Wesley Clarke, both interesting and frustrating, holds an attraction for Tara that is primitive and exasperating.

Intermingled with her search, Tara deals with her own heartbreaking buried secrets. When a strange old Native American probes into the recesses of her heart, he encourages her to face her bitter feelings.

As Tara closes in on her search, she finds herself—and Boet—the target of someone who’s determined to outrun and outsmart her. Someone determined not to get caught.

His theme:

Fun as fast as you can, you can’t catch me.

The question:

Can Tara run fast enough to catch this real live Gingerbread boy

before he decides to get rid of her and Boet?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

I honestly didn’t know what to expect from Catch Me If You Can, except that it was related to the nursery rhyme/story of the Gingerbread Man and that it was a suspense/mystery. 

This was an interesting novel because it follows a PI trying to find an animal killer, but yet she learns some lessons along the way. Tara is stubborn, but also kind, and she has a good way of tracking clues. I like how throughout the book she confronted with the fact that she needs to let go of her anger over the murder of brother. I also liked getting to know her cat, Bot, which I loved the name (I grew up in South Africa where this was a common term), and I just love cats. 

I also enjoyed getting to know all the other characters that Tara comes into contact with, especially Jimbo. 

While I enjoyed the characters and the mystery, I must admit that, at least for the first part of the book, the writing seemed to be clunky. There seemed to be too much information thrown at the reader, and I often found myself a little bit lost at times. Some of the dialogue also seemed a little inauthentic to the characters. I don’t know, it just seemed confusing at times. However, about halfway through things improved and I started enjoying the book a lot more. But I did really like how we got some chapters from the suspect’s point-of-view, which added to the creep factor. Also, I loved how the author planted red herrings throughout the book as to who the culprit is. 

Overall, I liked Catch Me If You Can, it was a compelling suspense with some great characters. However, it did have some technical issues in the first half that made it hard for me to engage with the story, as well as some editing errors. But, I do hope to read more of Tara and Boet’s adventures soon, and I am excited to see what other cases they solve. 3.5/5 Stars. 

About the Author

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. An author of thirteen full-length, best selling and award winning books (with a novella in an anthology), she loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. She has found that the traveling and ministering has served her well in writing her novels. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?

More from Carol

Who doesn’t like a good book while nibbling on cookies and sipping your favorite drink?

Writing Catch Me If You Can, Book One of the Nursery Rhyme Series, was a fun endeavor. I can’t remember how I came up with the idea, but I do know it’s been interesting and a long-time coming. Both Tara Layne and Wesley Clarke have personal and spiritual issues to resolve which are more serious topics to address. So I knew definitely that I not only wanted to include those, plus suspense and romance, but also a bit of quirky-ness to the story.

What were the two quirky things that help make it special?

Tara Layne comes from a very special family. Her older brother, Tory, four years older than the twins: Tara and Tomas, and her grandfather, Poppy, an archeologist, who cared for them when their parents died. He raised them while on dig sites, teaching them and giving them a unique view of the world.

When Tory was murdered, while studying to follow in their grandfather’s footsteps, Tara, an elementary teacher, resigned and took the schooling she needed to be a detective because the authorities seemed unable to discover why Tory was murdered.

Her brothers were always pranksters, and after Tory died, Tomas bought her an expensive gift: A Savannah cat, sort of as a joke. But instead of being irritated at her nerdy computer brother, she fell in love with her cat and proceeded to name him Boet (An African name that means brotherly love). Boet not only hisses at those he’s not crazy about, but shows tolerance for those who he favors.

Here are some fun facts about a Savannah cat:

1. Crossbred between a African Serval cat and a domestic cat.
2. Many Savannah cats enjoy water.
3. They are inquisitive and extremely intelligent.

The antagonist leaves Gingerbread cookie men at each site of the animal killings.

1. Now that seems weird enough, but when you discover why and how the cookies play a part of his/her past, you’ll understand the title better and why the antagonist is so obsessed with these specific cookies.
2. I’ve included a recipe below for your enjoyment! If you love gingerbread, these are sure to become a favorite!

Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients

Cookies

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 large egg
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• additional flour for rolling out dough

Icing

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tsp milk
• 2 tsp light corn syrup
• 1/2 tsp extract of choice – lemon almond or vanilla

Instructions

Cookies

• In a small bowl mix together baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger and cinnamon until well blended. Set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter, brown sugar, and eggs on medium speed until well blended.
• Add molasses and vanilla and mix until well combined.
• Gradually add in dry ingredients and mix until combined, but do not over-mix.
• Wrap dough in plastic wrap and place into an airtight container or freezer style zipper bag, and place in refrigerator for at least two hours and up to 24 hours.
• When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375 deg. Line baking sheets with silicone baking mats ore parchment paper.
• Let dough sit at room temperature for 5-15 minutes or however long is needed to make it pliable enough to divide in half. The time it takes will depend on how long it’s been chilling.
• Place 1 portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle additional flour over dough and gently roll dough out to approximately 1/4 – 1/3″ thick. The thicker the dough the softer the cookie will be. If dough sticks to rolling pin, sprinkle additional flour onto dough.
• Cut out cookies with cookie cutter. Whatever scraps are left over after cutting out cookies can be rolled out and rolled out to cut out more cookies.
• Place cookies on baking sheet approximately 1 1/2-inches apart.
• Bake each sheet of cookies for 7-10 minutes until tops and edges are starting to firm up.
• Remove baking sheet from oven transfer to a wire cooling rack. Allow to cool on baking sheet for ten minutes, then use a spatula to transfer cookies to another wire cooling rack to cool completely.
• If desired, once cookies are completely cooled decorate.

Icing

• In a medium size bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well to combine. For thicker icing, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time. For thinner icing, add more corn syrup, one teaspoon at a time. Place into a piping bag and pipe onto gingerbread cookies as desired.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 6

Pause for Tales, September 6

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 8

Inklings and notions, September 9

deb’s Book Review, September 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 11

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, September 12

Texas Book-aholic, September 13

For Him and My Family, September 14

Mary Hake, September 14

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, September 15

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, September 16

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, September 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carole is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/116c4/catch-me-if-you-can-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Heart of Christmas Blog Tour and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Heart of Christmas

Author: The Mosaic Collection

Genre: Faith-Based Christmas Fiction

Release date: October 6, 2021

“At Christmas, we always…” And thus a tradition is born. The rituals stay the same, but if betrayal, illness, unfaithfulness, or tragedy strike, can cherished traditions survive?

When unexpected twists throw life out of kilter for the people in these stories, will beloved, time-honored customs lead them back to the heart of Christmas?

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts 

When I picked up The Heart of Christmas I was fully expecting it to be a collection of Christmassy romances, however only two of the novellas were. I loved how besides learning to love and trust another person, there were also lesson on forgiveness, moving on from grief, loving someone who caused you pain, etc. I enjoyed each of these novellas, some from some new-to-me authors nd a couple by an old favorite (Chautona Havig) and a newer favorite (Sara Davison). 

While I enjoyed the whole anthology, I do want to say that if I could only pick one favorite it would have to be Star Light by Sara Davison. This was just a unique story that had an unexpected and surprising ending. I also liked how we follow Felicity in the present day and then Calla, the innkeeper’s wife in Bethlehem, where we get a (fictional) account of the Nativity from her point of view. There is so much more I want to say but I don’t want to give away spoilers! 

Overall, this was a great collection of novellas and I highly recommend picking it p for the holiday season! 4/5 Stars. 

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Authors

The Mosaic Collection launched in 2018 as an international community of independently published authors who approach life, faith, and writing together. Some have vast writing experience, others are somewhat new to the journey. Under The Mosaic Collection’s banner, they’ve published more than 20 novels and four anthologies.

With over 150 years of collective writing experience, Mosaic’s award-winning and best-selling authors are active leaders and members in prominent writing organizations. The goal of The Mosaic Collection is to encourage and uplift readers worldwide, offer hope in story form, and share the unconditional love and forgiveness found in Jesus Christ.

More from The Mosaic Collection

The Mosaic Collection authors welcome you into our hearts, homes, and lives and offer you tiny glimpses into our families and our favorite traditions.

Janice L. Dick

Christmas is always a special time of year. I love the festive reds and greens, strings of colored lights and gift-giving, but there is much that distracts us from the real meaning of the season. How do we hang onto the genuine, historical truths of the Savior’s birth? One of the traditions in our family is to read the Christmas story before we open gifts, thus realigning our focus to the most precious gift God gave us in Jesus. Visualize a fire in the grate, family lounging on every available couch, chair, and floor space; and one of the youngest grandchildren reading from the Bible, his eyes following his finger across the page. Once again, the age-old story comes to life as we hear of angels, shepherds, and a young couple keeping watch over the Christ-child in the manger. Maybe this year we will come up with a new way to direct our thoughts to the greatest gift ever given. To the nativity.

Sara Davison

The word Christmas immediately conjures up warm memories of church services, family, gifts, and food for me. The traditions my family engages in every year infuse this celebration of Christ’s birth with nostalgia and meaning. For me, one of the most meaningful traditions is setting out the nativity scene. Although the location has changed from mantel to coffee table to windowsill as we have moved from house to house, the little figures—the wise men, kneeling shepherds, Mary and Joseph gazing down at the manger with adoring looks on their painted faces, the cows and sheep curled in the corner of the straw-strewn wooden stable, the angel hovering above, the tiny baby in the manger—have never changed. I take my time setting up the display, slowly unwrapping pieces that have become a little worn and chipped over the years of being lovingly handled or played with by tiny toddler fingers. Each piece calls to mind another aspect of the beloved story in Luke 2. The nativity scene is the focal point of my decorations. In the midst of all the crazy busyness that can be the Christmas season, it grounds me and reminds me what this time of year is truly about.

Stacy Monson

Christmas is all about family for me – my nuclear family, grandkids, and in-laws, my family of dear friends, and the family of believers who rejoice at the birth of Christ. We’ve hung onto some traditions and welcomed new ones. As life situations change, we try to adapt and make the best of it, because regardless of what the holiday ends up looking like, it’s being with family that counts. So for me, Christmas is about celebrating the Christ Child with love, laughter, food and fun. It is indeed a time for celebration.

Milla Holt

Our four children are still young, so my love for Christmas is quadrupled because of their enthusiasm. We begin the buildup with an Advent calendar starting on December 1st. Every morning until the 24th, they open the day’s box, read the little lesson, and do a treasure hunt.

More than any other holiday, Christmas lends itself so beautifully to teaching them about the loving all-powerful God who knows exactly what it means to be human. They understand and marvel at how Jesus, the creator and Lord of the universe, once needed a diaper and had to be potty trained. He had to learn to read, write, and spell just like they do. I love the reminder that one of his names is Immanuel: God with us.

Deb Elkink

Mom (a visual artist and farm-girl cook) and Dad (an imaginative storyteller of deep enthusiasm) made Christmas a celebratory holiday every year! Thanks to Mom, the food not only tasted fantastic, but the table and tree and household decorations were gorgeous. Thanks to Dad, our days were full of the magic of wonder (he actually climbed onto the roof carrying bells on Christmas Eve to herald Santa’s arrival) and the mystery of the Incarnation (reading the Luke story about the Ultimate Gift before a single package was opened). We were diligent church-goers except on holidays—including Christmas—when we would focus on family time and not attend the special services. Instead, following an afternoon of snowmobiling, and then mugs of rich cocoa around the fireplace, we five kids would wear our hand-sewn PJs, sing carols, and snack on expensive delicacies: Halva and roasted nuts and cheeses from around the world.

Candace West

My favorite thing about Christmas is fellowship with family and friends. At the end of the year, we gather at our homes or church to celebrate the birth and life of Christ. Because He is at the heart of our love for one another, He is the One Who strengthens the bond of our fellowship. Whether we’re opening gifts, gathering around the table, sharing laughter over cups of cocoa, or playing board games, I feel His love abiding through and within my loved ones. And I feel the whisper of His promise that one day all Believers will be gathered around His table of fellowship for eternity. Christmas is only a foretaste of our glorious future with Him.

Lisa Renee

What I love about Christmas is seeing extended family come together in one place, sharing memories of the year over delicious food. Most of all, I love how the world stops to celebrate a significant event in history, our Savior’s birth.

Brenda S. Anderson

There’s so much to love about Christmas! Music, gifts, twinkling lights, snow, decorations, chocolate, family time. It’s all so bright and cheery, and the world is focused on Jesus. The world may not understand who Jesus is and what He did for us, but there’s no better opportunity to show Him to the world. The opportunities to serve are vast, and being God’s hands and feet is a beautiful way to shine His light. Really, showing other who Jesus is, apart from the trappings, is what I love most about Christmas.

Eleanor Bertin

When I was six years old and just learning to read, I unwrapped a package I’d received for Christmas but didn’t know what it was. Puzzling over it, my dad came alongside me. Slowly, painstakingly, I sounded out the word Slippers on the label. Patiently, so unlike his usual brusque way, my father helped me. I cherished the nearness of him, always fearful he would give up on me. But he didn’t. That is one of my most treasured memories of him. There are others, too, like the one eleven years later when after my rebellious stint, my heavenly Father patiently and painstakingly began a transformation in my heart. My dad responded with what I now realize was his best effort at encouragement. “I’m glad to see you’ve made some changes.”

Christmas is always precious to me because of the memories it holds of how the Word made flesh worked His Word in me. He has never given up on me despite my slowness of heart to trust and obey. In painful and pleasant ways, for over six decades, He has assured me of His bountiful forgiveness and lavish love.

Chautona Havig

Tree night in the Havig house is most definitely our family’s favorite tradition. Even our older children tend to come home for the annual trek to the lot, the annual argument over which tree, and the annual popcorn and cranberry stringing party. It all ends with the final decorating. You’ll hear, “Oh, here’s your train!” or “Where’s my baby’s first Christmas?” as everyone jostles to get their ornaments in just the right place. It’s chaos with popcorn all over the floor, Christmas songs belting out in our tiny house, and laughter. Tons of laughter. My personal favorite moment is when everyone has gone to bed and it’s just me in my dimly lit living room. That beauty, the memories, that laughter… it’s what I consider the Lord’s gift to me. I just get it early and it lasts a whole month!

Lorna Seilstad

Whether your family celebrates the Christmas season with special foods, a colorful light display, or a tree handpicked from a farm, I’m sure you have your own treasured traditions. Christmas traditions are one of the things I like best about the season. Our traditions make our families unique, and in a world where everything constantly changes, they remind us some things remain the same. There’s comfort in honoring Christmas traditions. They keep us connected to our past, help us rediscover our families, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Johnnie Alexander

My children’s Christmases were very different than the ones from my own childhood. Sleds and ice skates could be found under our Christmas tree, a baked ham on the dining table, and snow-covered hills outside our door. My kids, raised in Florida, never received “winter toys.” A roasted turkey usually graced our dining table but grilling out was also an option. Yet our Christmases were also similar. I passed along to my children the tradition of opening our stockings first—and everyone in the family has one. As adults, it seems they anticipate the goodies hiding inside their stockings even more than the gaily wrapped presents under their trees. Most important, though, is that my children are now sharing with their children the truth that my parents shared with my siblings and me—that the baby in the manger is our Lord Incarnate and Savior of the World.

Thank you for celebrating the release of The Heart of Christmas. We pray the stories within this anthology will fill you with love and joy and prepare your heart for the greatest celebration this season—remembering the birth of our Savior. What a sacrifice! What a gift! What love.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 8

CarpeDiem, October 8

For Him and My Family, October 9

deb’s Book Review, October 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 11

Joanne Markey, October 11

Texas Book-aholic, October 12

Inklings and notions, October 13

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 14

Splashes of Joy, October 14

By the Book, October 15

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 16

Older & Smarter?, October 17

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 18

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, October 19

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 20

Mary Hake, October 20

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 21

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, The Mosaic Collection is giving away the grand prize package of a $30 Amazon gift card, two copies of The Heart of Christmas in paperback, and a $10 coupon to Mosaic’s Etsy shop!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fdf/the-heart-of-christmas-celebration-tour-giveaway