Eat God's Food ~ Susan U. Neal

This is an excellent book about healthy eating that is written for kids, but is a great resource for any age!  The knowledge of healthy food, eating right, and how important good nutrition is are what this book is all about.  The illustrations are very colorful and helpful, it will keep the young kids attention.  The book also contains God's word, activities, worksheets and questions that adults and kids can use to learn what they just read.  

I would recommend this book to anyone that wants to learn about good foods and have fun at it.  It is written in a very easy form to understand and you can use as reference anytime, .... GREAT BOOK!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Book

Book: Eat God’s Food

Author: Susan U. Neal

Genre: Children’s Picture Book

Release date: June 21, 2021

Kids have strong opinions about food. Some foods they love and others they don’t. Eat God’s Food teaches them early to love the right kinds of food, preparing them for a lifetime of eating and living the way God intended.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Susan Neal RN, MBA, MHS teaches both adults and children healthy nutritional guidelines. She is the author of eight healthy living books. Susan helped thousands improve their health and weight with her award-winning bestseller, 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates. Now she’s educating children about developing wholesome eating habits. You can find Susan on SusanUNeal.com.

More from Susan

How to Persuade Kids to Eat Healthy

Did you know God created over 100 vegetables and 50 fruits? Most kids probably don’t know this either. Have you eaten all of those produce items? Wouldn’t it be fun to try each one with your children? God created humans, and he knew exactly what we needed to eat. That’s why he created double the amount of vegetables than fruits. Fruits are God’s dessert and vegetables are his staple. So how do we get kids to eat them? You’ve got to make it fun.

Each week, ask your child to choose one produce item for the family to try. Take your kids to the produce section of the grocery store on a scavenger hunt to find the colors for each vegetable and fruit. Take photos of interesting items and when you get home, ask your kid to draw them.

Try a new recipe each week with your children. The new picture book, Eat God’s Food, provides a recipe for parents to do with their child for each of the following food groups: vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, grains, and meat.

Create snack bags with your youngsters that include their favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Put a half cup in each bag and place them in your pantry. The next time you’re running out the door for an athletic event, your kids can grab a healthy snack.

Educate your children about the health benefits of consuming vegetables, fruits, whole grains (not processed), nuts, seeds, and meat. Have them determine the vitamins in different foods. Help them figure out what produce item might improve their vision or give them more energy.

Teach your children to read food labels. When I took my kids to the grocery store, we had the rule that we couldn’t buy any item with over 10 grams of sugar. They would grab the package, find the sugar level, and tell me, “Mom, it has 24 grams of sugar in one granola bar.” So we wouldn’t buy it. They understood why and would look for another snack. Many times they found an item with 12 grams of sugar, and that was close enough, so we got it.

I taught my kids to read labels to see if it included hydrogenated oil, because that ingredient causes health problems. A couple years later, all foods in the United States had to be labeled if it included this ingredient. Mama knew what she was talking about.

Teach your kids that products made from white flour have been stripped of their nutrients. In fact, they may cause a child to grow wider instead of taller. Explain how food manufacturers want consumers to buy more of their products, so they add sugar, salt, and fats to get them hooked. Food manufacturers want to make a profit, and sometimes that profit comes at the consumers’ expense.

Check the Environmental Working Group’s findings that showed that almost all oat-based cereal products marketed to children contained the carcinogen residue from glyphosate. Check the list in this article for the level of glyphosate found in your child’s favorite cereal. Therefore, you should buy organic oat products.

Expand your child’s palate, knowledge, and point of view about healthy foods versus unhealthy foods. If you do, they may grab a grocery store product, read the label, and tell you why it is not healthy. And they may select some fun, interesting fruits and vegetables in the produce aisle. Enjoy exploring all of God’s food with your family.

Giveaway

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

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! 

CLICK HERE

A Shadow in the Snow ~ JPC Allen

This is book one of the Rae Riley Mysteries series, a young reader's cozy mystery.  Rae has finally solved who tried to murder her mother and finds out that her father is the sheriff.  She is starting a new life with her new found family and life is good.  Then things take a turn, she starts receiving threats and decides to not tell anyone and investigate on her own.  Will she survive without help?  What danger does she put herself and her new family in? 

 

If you like cozy murder mysteries that are page turners, read this book.  It is for young readers, however, any age can read and enjoy this fast pace read.  I can't wait for the next book in the series. 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

 About the Book

Book: A Shadow on the Snow

Author: JPC Allen

Genre: YA Mystery

Release date: December 1, 2021

Nineteen-year-old Rae Riley can barely believe her gamble paid off. After spending seven months investigating the identity of her father and whether he tried to murder her mother, Rae has been accepted by her dad, Sheriff Walter “Mal” Malinowski IV, and his immediate family with open hearts. And for the first time in her life, Rae is making friends, jamming with three cute cops who play outlaw country music.

But someone is leaving Rae threatening notes, reminding her of her late mother’s notorious past when Bella Rydell wrecked homes and lives during the few years she lived in rural Marlin County, Ohio. Fearing the threats will make Mal and his family reject her, Rae investigates the mystery on her own. But her amateur sleuthing may cost her the father she’s always wanted when the stalker changes targets and takes dead aim at Mal.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

JPC Allen started her writing career in second grade with an homage to Scooby Doo. She’s been tracking down mysteries ever since and has written mystery short stories for Mt. Zion Ridge Press. Her Christmas mystery short story, “A Rose from the Ashes”, was a Selah-finalist at the Blue Ridge Mountains Writers Conference in 2020. Online, she offers tips and prompts to ignite the creative spark in every kind of writer. She also leads workshops for tweens, teens, and adults, encouraging them to discover the adventure of writing. A lifelong Buckeye, she has deep roots in the Mountain State.  A Shadow on the Snow is her first novel.

 More from JPC Allen

“Write what you know.”

 This piece of advice is given to a lot of beginning writers. But many writers are successful concocting stories in fantasy worlds or researching 18^th century Russia and writing brilliant historical fiction. I’ve never been comfortable in any genre but mystery, and the more I’ve written, the more I’ve come to write what I know. There’s only one me, and if I pull from my experiences, I hope to give my mysteries a unique touch.

 A Shadow on the Snow is set in southeast, or Appalachian, Ohio, because that’s where I grew up. I based Wellesville on St. Clairsville, the town I lived in as a kid. The library my main character Rae Riley works in looks like the library there, and the courthouse is right across Main Street, just like in my novel.

 Until I was thirty, my mom’s parents lived out in the country on a ridge between St. Clairsville and the Ohio River. Their home was my favorite place on the planet, so when I needed a farmhouse for Rae’s family, I modeled it on Grandpa and Grandma’s house. I’m sure when my sisters and cousins read about the breezeway that runs between the house and the garage and the steps that lead from it to the outside door to the walkout basement, they’ll instantly know where I got my inspiration.

 None of the characters are exact copies of real people I know, but I do use traits of real people to bring my characters to life. Aaron has my oldest child’s enthusiasm for science. Jeanine shares qualities with my youngest sister. Jason Carlisle is based on a man I saw once at my youngest child’s soccer game. All the other dads who coached wore baggy t-shirts and shorts. This man looked like he’d stepped off a yacht with perfectly styled hair, a navy blue windbreaker, and tailored white shorts. In my fictional Marlin County, where most men consider a plaid shirt without a tear to be formal attire, I thought a man who is fashionable would be an interesting contrast to the other characters.

 Rae has a lot of me in her. She works at a library, which I did for ten years, but I was a children’s librarian, instead of a check-out clerk. She’s interested in photography and horses like I am. Both of us are shy, don’t like to inconvenience people, and worry what others think of us. However, I have never had the courage or the nerve to set a trap for a stalker, and that experience, as well as the most heart-pounding scenes in my book, are pure inventions. There’s a limit to writing what you know, and as a mystery writer, I’m very glad I can write about crimes without having to experience them!

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, JPC is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card, a signed copy of Christmas Fiction Off the Beaten Path, a signed copy of A Shadow on the Snow, and a bookmark based on the artwork of an Ohio artist!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway!

CLICK HERE

The Lost Dutchman's Secret ~ Rebekah Jones

 

This is book 5 of the Ever After Mysteries series, a Christian Historical Mystery book.  Dorothy is caught in the middle of having to pay off a debt that her father owed.  When she figures out how to pay the amount, that is not enough.  She is helped by a man and when they think it is paid in full.... they both learn the greedy man is saying Dorothy owes more, only to find the man dead.  Who is to blame? How will Dorothy survive the debt and prove she is innocent?  

This book of the series is based on the tale of Rumpelstiltskin, with a modern day story.  This book and all the others in the series, are stand alone reads as the common factor is that they are all based on a fairy tale story.  This was not my favorite of the series, but still a good mystery that kept my interest. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Book

Book: The Lost Dutchman’s Secret

Author: Rebekah Jones

Genre: Christian Historical Mystery, Fairytale retelling

Release date: November 2, 2021

There’s a deadly secret in them thar hills—and gold, or so they say.

Deeply in debt to a wealthy local, Charles Sinclair, Dorothy Hodges’ father finally promises she’ll pay and in gold, no less. If only Dorothy could take to take the promises he spins out of thin air and turn them into that gold, all would be well.

With the help of a strange, rumpled man, Dorothy does manage to bring payment to one of Sinclair’s sons only to discover it won’t pay off the debt. Will the next payment be enough?  The next?

When Charles Sinclair ends up dead, Dorothy is the obvious prime suspect, but Sinclair’s son isn’t so certain. Together they work to clear her name and find the real murderer of the Superstitions, but will they find the answers buried in those hills?

Find out in this next book in the Ever After Mysteries, combining beloved fairy tales and mysteries. The Lost Dutchman’s Secret offers a retelling of “Rumplestilskin” that requires more digging than a miner searching for The Lost Dutchman Mine.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Rebekah Jones is first and foremost a follower of the Living God. She started writing as a little girl, seeking to glorify her King with her books and stories.

Rebekah is an old soul in a young body (she’s not 12 —honest!) While her exact age is classified, her interests are not. Among them are reading a variety of books, singing, playing, and composing music, studying all manner of subjects, nannying an adventurous group of youngsters, and, of course, writing her books, poems, articles, and short stories. She writes a wide range of books from gentle children’s adventures to family sagas to murder mysteries.

 More from Rebekah

“They say that no one had ever seen gold ore like it before, neither have they ever since. Except in the possession of Jacob Waltz. His mine had ore of higher value and higher potency than any other mine found in Arizona…”

 What if the Miller’s daughter from the tale of Rumpelstiltskin didn’t have to spin gold, but pay it? And because of an enormous debt – that she had no way of knowing the value? And her father wasn’t a miller, but an old miner with a penchant for carving animals while living in the Arizona desert? And what if, for her pains, she found herself mixed up in a murder?

 And what if, somehow intermixed with this poor young woman and her troubles, came the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Goldmine?

 If you don’t know about the legend of that lost mine, you should. Or I think that you should. It’s a real legend as old as the 1860’s. Except, it wasn’t lost when Jacob Waltz went bragging about it. That came later.

 The mountains that house the legend are magnificent. When a friend of mine came to visit me, she and I went to explore the area around the Superstition Mountains, as well as a part of the mountains themselves. Standing in a forest of cacti and brush, the jagged rocks and sharp peaks towered above my head, while a critter skittered unseen. Beautiful isn’t quite a strong enough word to describe it. As we hiked up the mountain, making our way through a myriad of desert plant life, rocks of so many shapes and sizes, and tiny critters, I could picture Dorothy, the miner’s daughter.

 The modern structures and buildings in sight, faded in my mind’s eye, and I could imagine the young woman partway up the mountain in 1929, wearing her old, faded dress, and staring out across the valley. We plotted out where her father’s shack would have stood, and I made note of a perfect crevice of rock where she might have sat to think or read. I rather found myself wishing I could live out there myself, even if living in a shack in the heat of the Arizona summer doesn’t wholly appeal to me.

 When I finally got in front of my manuscript again, I could see Dorothy’s world so clearly, I can only hope I managed to capture it in the book itself. I doubt if I could have captured the beauty of those mountains in words, the sight of them as they changed colors in the sunset, or the glowing starry sky above them after dark.

 As for the Lost Dutchman’s Goldmine, I would be lying if I said I didn’t entertain fantasies about exploring the mountains to discover it, but we certainly did not go that far into the mountains. Besides, it was June in the Arizona desert. One does not blindly venture into the mountains on such an errand in such a time of year, unless one has a death wish. It’s rather fun to imagine though. Perhaps one day, I can go on a search – though I confess, I doubt it.

 As for the book, I won’t say whether that lost goldmine is discovered or not. I’ll leave that for a reader to discover for themselves.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rebekah 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 HERE

Legacy of Love ~ Linda Shenton Matchett

This is book 10 of the Keepers of the Light series, Christian Historical read.  Meg moves to Oregon from Boston, to escape a marriage of convenience.  Soon she finds that she has inherited and estate and it is back on the east coast.  She is not a fan to go back, and has to make the choice to stay or go back.  She has befriended Reuben, who wants to convince her to go back, he gives her until Christmas to make that choice.  What will Meg do?  Does Reuben have more in mind then what is best for Meg?  What will happen if she makes the wrong choice?

If you like a light romance and going back into history then you will really enjoy reading this book.  It is book 10 of the series, but can be read as a standalone.  This would make a great Hallmark channel series.  It is a page turner and short, so can be read in one sitting. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Book

Book: Legacy of Love

Author: Linda Shenton Matchett

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release date: December 8, 2020

Will their love come at a cost?

Escaping Boston to avoid a marriage of convenience aimed at garnering society’s respect for her family name in the shadow of her father’s war profiteering, Meg Underwood settles in Spruce Hill, Oregon. Despite leaving behind the comforts of wealth, she’s happy. Then the handsome Pinkerton agent, Reuben Jessop, arrives with news that she’s inherited her aunt’s significant estate, and she must return home to claim the bequest. Meg refuses to make the trip. Unwilling to fail at his mission, Reuben gives her until Christmas to prove why she should remain in Spruce Hill and give up the opportunity to become a woman of means. When he seems to want more than friendship, she wonders if her new-found wealth is the basis of his attraction.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. A volunteer docent and archivist for the Wright Museum of WWII, Linda is a former trustee for her local public library. She is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry. Linda has lived in historic places all her life, and is now located in central New Hampshire where her favorite activities include exploring historic sites and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

 More from Linda

Dear Reader:

 Have you ever dreamed of winning the lottery?

 Last year, that happened to someone at work. Not millions, but a significant amount of money. As a result, she immediately cut her hours to part-time and began to do things she hadn’t been able to. Her good fortune prompted a lot of conversations among my colleagues about what they would do if they came into a large sum of money.

 Those discussions inspired the plotline for Legacy of Love, but instead of winning the lottery my main character comes into a large inheritance. As a result, everyone treats her differently and weighs in on what she should do. Her friendships are affected, and her life is turned upside down. She was happy before the inheritance, however the money would allow her to perform acts of kindness. But at what cost?

 I hope you enjoy Hannah’s story.

 Blessings,

Linda Shenton Matchett

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Visa Gift Card and signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway!

CLICK HERE

The Traveler ~ E.B. Dawson

 

This is book one of the Lost Empire Series, a Contemporary Fantasy read.  This is a story about traveling to another world when you dream.  

I was not really into this story as this type of fantasy books are not enjoyable for me to read.  I tried several times to read this book, however, I just couldn't get interested in the fantasy story read.  If you are a person that likes going to the futuristic world and going to a place that is fantasy then you are going to like.  I am not into these types of reads and had to give my true review.  I really wanted to read this book as I enjoy time travel books, but the subject of dreams, medication, and government theory was not of interest to me. This book is toooo futuristic for my reading. 

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Book

Book: The Traveler

Author: E.B. Dawson

Genre: Crossworlds Fantasy

Release date: September, 2017

WHAT IF YOU COULD TRAVEL TO ANOTHER WORLD IN YOUR DREAMS?

In the modern nation-state of Riyen, few people dream anymore, and those who do are prescribed medication. But when Anissa Robson begins to dream of a strange jungle after the death of her mother, she neglects to report it. Feeling lost and alone in the waking world, she embraces her new dream world, until reality begins to cross over.

When Anissa stumbles upon evidence that her own government has known about Angapo for years, she uncovers a conspiracy that will change her life forever.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

E.B. Dawson was born out of time. Raised in the remote regions of a developing nation, traveling to America was as good as traveling thirty years into the future. Now she writes science fiction and fantasy to make sense of her unusual perspectives on life. Her stories acknowledge darkness, but empower and encourage people to keep on fighting, no matter how difficult their circumstances may be. She currently lives in Idaho with her family and her cat Maximus.

 More from E.B. Dawson

G.K. Chesterton once wrote that “The whole object of travel is not to set foot on foreign land; it is at last to set foot on one’s own country as a foreign land.” I rather suspect that Aslan would have agreed. In fact, he says something very similar when he explains to the Pevensies why he brought them to Narnia in the first place. It is also why I wrote The Traveler. The vivid, broken, beautiful, dangerous world of this book is completely of my own creation, and yet you will pick up the clear echoes of the world you know, and my hope is that it will allow you to see it with new eyes.

 Born in a developing nation to expatriate parents, I traveled a lot as a kid. There really is no way to describe what it is like to grow up between two vastly different countries and multiple cultures. By the time I was seven I was more familiar with the concepts and consequences of political coups, religious persecution, colonization, regional famine, and ethnic discrimination than I was with Sesame Street or Winnie the Pooh.

 I grew up surrounded by dozens of Non-Governmental Organizations like humanitarian groups and mission organizations, and military troops from multiple nations. This is probably why almost all my books have a political element that examines the relationships between parties with opposing interests. But my chief interest is and always will be exploring the impact an individual can have when surrounded by (and sometimes at the mercy of) forces beyond their control.

 In The Traveler (and its two sequels) I invite you on a journey to examine the relationships between nations, individuals, and cultures. This series is truly about adventure and the spirit and wonder of traveling to new lands and how it can impact your perspectives and priorities. Sprinkle in some fantasy and advanced technology and you have the recipe for a transportive, emotionally rich, thought provoking story unlike any you’ve read before. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. And I hope it makes you look at the world around you with fresh perspective.

Giveaway

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

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway!

CLICK HERE

Of Fire and Ash ~ Gillian Bronte Adams

This is book one of the Fireborn Epic series, a Young readers fantasy book.  This is about nation of Soldonia and the land of magical horses fighting evil.  Ceridwaental Desmond, sets out to become a warrior with her horse of steel.  After tragedy strikes her family, she is determined to fight and overcome evil in her country.  Can she overcome the fight and win the battle?  Will she make her goal of ruling a nation? 

This is a young fantasy read and book one of the series.  I am not a fan of this book however, if you like fantasy and a fan of horses you will enjoy this book.  It was hard for me to keep up with all that was going on with the characters and warfare.  Fans of fantasy and imagination reads will love this book. 

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

 

About the Book

Book: Of Fire and Ash

Author: Gillian Bronte Adams

Genre: YA Epic Fantasy

Release date: December 7, 2021

She rides a fireborn, a steed of fire and ash, trained for destruction. Ceridwen tal Desmond dreams of ruling like her father over the nation of Soldonia, where warriors ride to battle on magical steeds—soaring on storm winds, vanishing in shadow, quaking the earth, and summoning the sea. After a tragic accident claims her twin brother, she is exiled and sworn to atonement by spending her life—or death—for her people. But when invaders spill onto Soldonia’s shores and traitors seize upon the chaos to murder her father, Ceridwen claims the crown to keep the nation from splintering. Combatting overwhelming odds and looming civil war, she begins to wonder if the greatest threat to the kingdom may, in fact, be her. With fire before her and ash in her wake, how can she hope to unite instead of destroy?

Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Gillian Bronte Adams is a sword-wielding, horse-riding, wander- loving fantasy author, rarely found without a coffee in hand and rumored to pack books before clothes when she hits the road. Working in youth ministry left her with a passion for journeying alongside children and teens. (It also enhanced her love of coffee.) Now, she writes novels that follow outcast characters down broken roads, through epic battles, and onward to adventure. And at the end of a long day of typing, she can be found saddling her wild thing and riding off into the sunset, seeking adventures of her own. She loves to connect with readers online at www.gillianbronteadams.com.

 More from Gillian

I still vividly remember the moment, years ago, that the idea for this book came to me. It was the end of July, sometime between ten and eleven at night, and the insects outside were buzzing so loudly you could hear them through the window of the back room of the camp office where I sat. Slumped exhaustedly in a chair, shivering in the air conditioning in my sweat-soaked jeans and a t-shirt, I was waiting for the other summer staff to arrive so we could start and finish our planning meeting and stumble off to our cabins to sleep.

Even then, writing felt like breathing to me, so to pass the time and keep myself awake, I drew a ragged notebook out of my backpack and started scribbling sparks and specks of story ideas, barely noticing how my arm left smears of dirt on the page. It was my third or fourth summer as Head Wrangler, which meant I spent my days either on horseback or jogging alongside kids who were learning to ride. Dirt was just a part of life.

So many details of that night remain fresh in my mind, it’s odd that I can’t remember exactly what sparked the idea itself—the wide-eyed grin of a boy on his very first ride, the budding confidence in a girl as she raced around the barrels, or the cumulation of all the hours I’d spent atop my own wild thing, clearing wooded trails with a machete, leaping across creeks because he refused to simply wade, and performing amateur stunts for the occasional skit.

Whatever lit the fuse, as soon as I scribbled the first set of words on that crumpled notebook page, I knew I had struck gold. I felt it in my bated breath and leaping heartbeat. “Super-powered horses.” Or better yet, “Magical steeds.” Some that could breathe fire, some with hides like stone that could quake the earth with their hooves, some that rode upon the waves of the sea, and still others that could step into shadow and disappear without a trace.

Seven in all, they quickly cluttered the page, and I couldn’t wait for the chance to write the epic tale that could contain creatures like these. Unfortunately, I didn’t have a story yet. Just a page full of fanciful beasts and a head full of wild dreams. No characters. No plot. No premise. Or so I thought.

The meeting started then and I had to tuck my notebook away, but I couldn’t banish the magical horses now roaming in my head. Over the weeks and months that followed, I took them out and let them dance across the page every now and then, gradually fleshing out details, uncovering their secrets, and imagining their world. Yet the story itself remained elusive, until I finally, reluctantly, set them aside and turned my attention to other things. Months before that summer night, I had, in a fit of wild inspiration, outlined a new three book series starring a female warrior who longed to rule like her father before her. It was a bit daring and a lot daunting, but while I liked the characters and the concept, the world itself was lacking that flare of uniqueness, that touch of magic, that allows a fantasy realm to sprawl beyond the confines of the page and take root in the imagination of a reader.

Reading the outline afresh, I lamented that it was the sort of lusterless story doomed to die on a novelist’s hard drive, and perhaps my incredible magical horses with it, for though they were lustrous enough, without a story, they could never truly live. Without a story …

What if my aspiring queen lived in their world? What if she rode a fire-breathing steed? How might those beautiful magical creatures enhance and ultimately, shape her and her story?

Combining any two concepts can be dangerous, as you never know how they will interact until you try it. The resulting explosion shattered my outline and blasted apart my carefully formed plans, but when the dust settled and the heart of the new story emerged, I knew that this finally was an epic tale worthy of my magical steeds, and a world deep and dangerous enough to have forged my aspiring queen. It was, at last, Of Fire and Ash, the first book of The Fireborn Epic.

Giveaway

[To celebrate her tour, Gillian is giving away the grand prize of a $40 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway!

CLICK HERE

The Next Fithian ~ Rick Barry

 

This is book one of the The Next Fithian series, a young reader fantasy read.  When Rankin finds himself in a mysterious world, he soon finds that this is not earth.  He is in Zemna a world of evil and in the future of violence and darkness.  He finds that his mission is to save this world and go back to earth, by spreading the word of God.  His friends come to his aid, however, can they save the earth and themselves?  Can they keep the faith and let the people of Zemna know?

This is book one and is for young readers of fantasy world.  This is not my regular type of book to read, but it was interesting.  If you are a fan of fantasy and imagination reading, this is the book for you.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Book

 Book: The Next Fithian

Author: Rick Barry

Genre: YA Christian Science Fiction

Release date: September 14, 2021

Was this a new life — or a death sentence?

When Rankin Johnson boards a flight to Israel, he expects an adventure in archeology. But the airplane comes under attack and explodes in midair. Rankin shouts, “God, I’m yours!” Instantly, he’s in some other place. An angel informs Rankin the Lord is pleased to accept his offer. He dubs Rankin “the next Fithian” — a messenger from God, not to Earth, but to planet Zemna in the alternate dimension. What happened to the previous Fithian? “He was killed,” the angel says before vanishing.

On Zemna, Rankin finds a perplexing, violent world. Futuristic technology mingles with primitive ways. Also, a bizarre symbol—the Intersection of All Things—has appeared on his left palm. It’s a tool to aid his mission, but how? Rankin is supposed to share God’s message with this planet. Instead, he becomes a slave. What he really wants is a trip back to Earth.

With the aid of Prahv and Theena, a brother and sister who become his best friends, Rankin escapes. He hopes to fulfill his mission and return home as fast as possible. But now there’s a price on Rankin’s head. More than one Zemnan would rather kill him for the reward than hear what he has to say.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Rick Barry has climbed mountains, jumped from perfectly good airplanes, toured World War 2 battlefields, and visited Eastern Europe over 50 times in Christian ministry. He has a degree in teaching foreign languages and speaks Russian. His fiction and non-fiction have been published by Kregel Books, Focus on the Family, JourneyForth Books, Answers in Genesis, and others. His previous novels are Kiriath’s Quest, Gunner’s Run, The Methuselah Project, and Methuselah Project S.O.S.

 More from Rick

Years ago, I received an unexpected phone call. Michael Ross, then-editor of Focus on the Family’s Breakaway magazine, asked me to brainstorm a big, bold adventure for teens: “Maybe fantasy. Maybe science fiction. Maybe both mixed together. I don’t know. Just make it big!”

Such an intriguing challenge! I accepted the assignment and developed a 3-part Christian sci-fi story, The Next Fithian. Those three installments reaped enthusiastic reactions from readers. However, after Part 3, that assignment was done. I moved on.

As years passed, my Fithian characters refused to let me forget them. They kept coming to mind, urging me to create an exhilarating, novel-length adventure for them. At first, I refused. I was giving priority to my novels about World War II airmen.

[Insert Kick-Off Post Picture Here]

However, whenever I attended homeschool conferences to sign books for shoppers, teens visited my table to talk. What were those teen guys and girls wearing? T-shirts portraying the Avengers, Spider-Man, Captain America, the Hulk … It was obvious what kinds of adventures captivated these young adults. I wondered—what kind of uplifting novel could I pen for Christian fans of the Marvel universe?

In reply, my thoughts jumped back to The Next Fithian, a story brimming with action, adventure, danger, faith—plus a positive role model. This time, I yielded and began brainstorming ways to extend the original 5,400 words into an 80,000-word sci-fi novel with a Christian worldview. I didn’t want simply to create a gripping adventure. I wanted to give readers something unique. I wanted to touch their emotions, to make them laugh, to make them cry, to inspire them, and make them ponder things they had never considered before. I also wanted to transport them to another world where they might see better how to live in our own real world.

Responses from volunteer readers give me hope that The Next Fithian: An Ordinary Teen on a Strange, New World will appeal to diverse readers, both teens and adults. One teen, Kaden E. wrote, “WOW! I just finished the book, and boy was it fantastic!” Another teen, Victoria S. declared, “Rankin is exactly the kind of protagonist we need—he’s mentally, emotionally, and spiritually mature; intelligent; and compassionate.” Adult test reader Marali S. emailed, “I enjoyed this! You must write more!” Another, Jude U., wrote, “I pronounce excellence! The ‘romance’ was sweet and just enough.”

A mix of other test readers gave similar encouragement. So, even though my target audience is young adults, I hope adults will also enjoy it, just as adults enjoyed 17-year-old Katniss Everdeen of Hunger Games fame.

Christian sci-fi might not be your style, but pause and think—maybe you know a young adult who might benefit from such a story?

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Rick is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 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 HERE

The Thin Space ~ Dann Stouten

This is a Inspirational Religious Fiction book about loss and finding comfort in faith.  When Rocky has lost his wife to cancer, he is beside himself and angry with God.  How can God do this to Rocky?  Why is God letting this happen?  After a year of questioning all he why's and how could God do this?   Rocky must do an evaluation on a man that believes he is the apostle Paul.   Rocky comes to terms that he is to help the man, however, could the man be there to help him?

This is a book about love and finding God in all situation, no matter what happens in life, everything happens for a reason.  It reads fast and is very easy to understand and leaves you thinking about your own loss.  It is a good book if you want a true inspirational read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

 About the Book

Book: The Thin Space

Author: Dann Stouten

Genre: Speculative Fiction

Release date: May 28, 2021

When Psychologist Rocky Devos lost his wife to cancer, he also lost his faith in the fairness of God. For over a year, he lived in the thin space between his love for God and his hatred for what he believed God did. Each night, he banged on heaven’s gate demanding an explanation.

“Why Rachel, Lord? Why would you let her suffer like that? Why didn’t you do something? Why didn’t you give us a miracle?”

The longer his prayers went unanswered the more frustrated he became. Eventually, he meets God’s silence with a silence of his own. But then, a year and four months later, the answer arrives disguised as a homeless vagabond who claims to be the apostle Paul. Clearly, Rocky believes he was delusional. But in their court-appointed sessions, he finds a kindred spirit. As Paul unpacks the pain of losing his wife in childbirth the two men connect. Rocky believes he’s there to help Paul. Paul believes the opposite.

The book explores the thin space between faith and doubt. Rocky’s questions are our questions. At some point we will all lose someone we love. When we do, we will find comfort in the company of those who have walked the path of suffering before us. Rocky invites us to join him on his journey of redemption. His conversations with Paul will not only change the way he thinks about God, they may do the same for you as well.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

DANN STOUTEN (DMin, Western Theological Seminary) is the pastor of Leadership and Teaching at Christ Memorial Church in Holland, Michigan. Dann has always been a lover of stories. He believes if we write about hope, it’s because we have found hope. If we write about tragedy, it’s because we have experienced tragedy. If we write about love, it’s because we have been loved well or want to be. If we write about faith, it’s because we have wrestled with our doubts and come out on the other side. Doubt is the enemy of faith and nothing stirs up doubt like death.

When we lose someone we love, our faith is either strengthened or strangled. That death will drive us closer to God or drive us farther away. We find ourselves in The Thin Space between wanting to believe and wondering if we do. For a time, faith and doubt play tug-o-war with our souls. In the end, whether we chose to believe or not is often decided by the stories we’re told. My prayer is that my words might bring people comfort and bring them closer to God.

 More from Dann

There is a thin space between faith and doubt, and when we lose someone we love, the lines can sometimes get blurred. Unanswered prayers hang heavy on our hearts, and grief can even cause us to question God. In those moments of uncertainty, we often find comfort in the company of those who’ve walked the path of suffering before us. Their story and our stories intertwine. The Thin Space invites us to walk alongside of Rocky DeVos as he tries to navigate life’s most challenging moments. It is honest, comforting, and dares ask the questions we so often are afraid to explore. It will challenge the way you think about God and is a must read for anyone who’s lost someone they love.

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Dann 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 HERE

Home for Christmas ~ Chautona Havig, Toni Shiloh, Cathe Swanson, Jaycee Weaver

 

This is a set of books that are short stories, Christian Contemporary reads about Christmas from 4 different authors.  Each book can be read in a sitting and will put you in the Christmas spirit.  Each story has one thing in common, deals with the serving in the military and pays tribute to our veteran's service. This set is so American that you can't just read one, you want to read the next one and next one, until you find yourself done with the series.  This is a great gift for any of the reader on your list.  It is so heartfelt and each one has a different view and story, but all are about the love for the men and women that serve our country.  Everyone will enjoy reading these stories and perfect for this time of the year.  Put this one on your gifts to give list or your own I want list......

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Book

Book: Home for Christmas

Authors: Chautona Havig, Toni Shiloh, Cathe Swanson, Jaycee Weaver

Genre: Contemporary Christian Christmas Romance

Release date: October 21, 2021

Settle in with your favorite beverage, a Christmassy snack, and get ready for all the feels with these four heart-warming, military-honoring Christmas novellas.

The Christmas Lights Collection is back, and this year’s collection is better than ever. Full of love, joy, and hope, this year’s collection offers the celebration of freedom, sacrifice, and the greatest Gift ever given.

These novella features two veterans and two active servicemen and their stories.

The Stars of New Cheltenham (Chautona Havig): When a woman arrives at the Marine recruiting center, livid that her brother is ready to sign up tomorrow, the recruiter takes her on a journey through Rockland in hopes of showing her why her brother wants to serve.

Most Wonderful Time-  Gabe loves Christmas, so when he discovers that his new co-worker Shanée wants nothing to do with the season, he makes it his mission to show her the true meaning. But he never expected feelings to develop for the Air Force veteran. Will he take a chance that she feels the same way or miss the best gift of all?

The Road Home: ally has tried to leave her military history far in the past, but she’s not ready to go back to her former life, either. Can an old army buddy help her find a new road home?

Now and Forever Christmas: The past eight years as a professional musician for the US Army prepared Tobin McGhee for his new job as high school band teacher. They didn’t prepare him for how he’d feel seeing an old girlfriend again. This time, though, he won’t make the same mistakes. Can they make holiday music together and rekindle the friendship they once had, or will romance ruin everything… again?

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Authors Chautona Havig, Toni Shiloh, Cathe Swanson, and Jaycee Weaver are about as different geographically and personally as you can get—except where they’re not. What they all share is a love of books, writing, and Jesus. Their great diversity is what makes their books so complementary and what makes the Christmas Lights Collection an eagerly-anticipated set each year.

 More from Chautona

Picture it. Sweaters, fuzzy socks, a gas fireplace, and laptops. Cathe Swanson and I had been invited to join author Brenda Anderson for a writing retreat at her timeshare in the Wisconsin Dells. So, I flew out (and arrived in Minneapolis in the middle of riots! EEEP!) and we drove over to the Dells. There we were both determined to get a ton of writing done. And we did.

While Cathe worked on Home Run, (and I sneaked peeks at her recent release, Long Shadows), I finished up Penelope’s Pursuit and wrote a significant amount of Adoring April.

I also had a genius idea while I was there. I kind of freaked out poor Cathe a bit, running into the room where she was working and blurting out all the idea-ness (for a video of that, go HERE), but still… guys! Military! Woohoo!   Here’s a video of us brainstorming:

It was perfect on so many levels. So, Cathe zipped messages off to Jaycee and Toni, and we all began planning what we’d do to honor our military in this collection.

Look, it’s been a hard year for our military families. Folks are grieving and there’s just so much uncertainty. So, all of the authors of the Christmas Lights Collection would like to dedicate this collection not just to the men and women who have and are currently serving in our armed forces, but also to the families who make their own sacrifices in giving up time (often years) with their service men and women.

In this collection, you’ll find a Marine recruiter, a struggling veteran, an Army musician, and an Air Force veteran now working a nice prosaic bank job! See how each author ties Christmas and these heroes together!

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, the Christmas Lights Authors are 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 HERE

The Golden Touch ~ Carole Brown

This is book 5 of the An Appleton WV Romantic Mystery series, a Christian Mystery and Suspense read.  When Ryan decides to change course of his life, he purchases a rundown B&B and is going to renovate it.  He finds that during the renovations, mysterious things are happening.   Ryan befriends Jazzi and together they find that many things happening are mysterious and they need to solve the mystery in order to make the B&B work.  Can they over come the towns people and their negative thoughts?  Will they find that being for different worlds they have a few things in common?

If you want a book that will take you away for a few hours and keep you interested in what the mystery is... then pick up this book.  This would be a great Hallmark Murder Mystery channel movie, or series. This is book 5 but can be read as a stand alone..... good mystery book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Book

Book: The Golden Touch

Author: Carole Brown

Genre: Romantic Cozy Mystery

Release date: April 30, 2021

Not again.

Ryle Sadler stared down at the financial statement lying on his desk. His investment firm had just sent him another record of overwhelming success. Time to sell his share in this stock.

Ryle came from the poor side of the tracks, but that had no bearing on his success in life—which he kept hidden from everyone, especially those in Appleton, West Virginia. But when he buys the local, rundown bed and breakfast, mysterious revelations from beneath the site are suddenly threatening to ruin his good standing with the citizens.

Then along comes Jazzi Sanderson. Jazzi has a reputation of being wild, but Ryle sees more than is on the top layer of this woman. Beneath that tough, wild streak lurks a woman who wants to be loved by the right person, a woman who is tender-hearted and who is just finding out that God is real.

Is Ryle and Jazzi’s worlds too far apart or can their differences help them solve the mystery that lies beneath Ryle’s bed and breakfast? Will the evil person behind it all be able to silence them, or can Ryle’s golden touch prevail in this too?

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. An author of thirteen, best selling, award-winniing books, 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 Carole

Discovering the Emotional Touch

 When beginning the story of THE GOLDEN TOUCH, Book Five of the Appleton, WV Romantic Mysteries, I needed a KEY factor

 Here’s what I knew:

• the protagonists: Jazzi (Jazmine) Sanderson and Ryle Sadler, their careers and/or past, their personalities,
• the basic plot: mystery, suspense and the romance
• the setting
• the first chapter

 But I still didn’t have that thing—that emotion or feeling—the characters were searching for…until I, unknowingly hit upon it. What Jazzi and Ryle were both seeking, although unknown to either, was a place that felt like HOME. The place that makes a person feel content, relaxed and at peace, even when trouble is brewing, even when you’re still searching for that one person who makes the world go ’round for you.

 Where was it? Appleton, West Virginia. The small town where everyone knew everyone and their business, or at least assumed they knew. Where friends were friends for life, even when that small town held secrets, trouble and problems.

 Ryle, who was rich, innovative and smart, living in a big town and traveling across the country for work was happy, or thought he was. But when he chanced upon Appleton, West Virginia, small, friendly, clean and sometimes a nosy place, but where friends were loyal and ready to help in any way they could, Ryle realized he’d found that spot that felt like home. Adding that to solving the mystery and finding love, was the answer his heart had craved, even though he didn’t know it.

 As for Jazzi, wild, beautiful young lady that she was, felt unloved by her adopted parents, and flew the coop from Appleton as soon as she was of age. What she didn’t realize, that instead of blaming others for her unhappiness, it was of her own making. It wasn’t until she returned to Appleton, more mature now, accepting of her own mistakes, and finding a meaning for her life, that her heart grasped the one place that could ever feel like home. Appleton.

Giveaway

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

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway!

CLICK HERE

The Billionaire’s Secret ~ Meghann Whistler

This is book 1 of the Sweet Boston Billionaire's series, a Contemporary Religious book.  Ryan is struck with an illness, along with being rich and feeling all the women he meets are out for his money, he wants to find happiness.  He gets stranded in Vermont and comes across Zara at a camp and finds he is interested, could this be the one for him and not his money?  Zara is not in Vermont for love, she is their to take care of her ill mom and forget about a bad relationship she just ended..... Could she be surprised at what she finds?  Will faith keep these two more then friends?

I would recommend this to those that like a good afternoon read about faith, friendship and family.  The cover does not do this book justice, I wouldn't have attempted to read this book, if I was not doing a review on it.  This is a surprise and one of those, don't judge the book by it's cover book... very real and great message read... can't wait for book 2.

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Book

Book: The Billionaire’s Secret

Author: Meghann Whistler

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Release date: October 11, 2021

He’s a billionaire hiding a devastating diagnosis. She’ll do whatever it takes to help her sick, matchmaking mom. A freak accident throws them together, but will his big secret tear them apart?

When Ryan Lawson’s business partners force him to go on a wilderness retreat to come to terms with a shocking diagnosis, the last thing on Ryan’s mind is romance. But when he’s stranded in the woods with a sweet young event planner, all thoughts of business take a back seat to her girl-next-door appeal.

Fresh off a bad breakup, Zara Georgopoulos comes to Vermont to help her terminally ill mom work through her bucket list—not fall in love with a man who’s the exact opposite of her usual type. But when Ryan starts working his way into her heart with his kindness and generosity, she needs to make a decision: Trust the biotech billionaire not to walk all over her, or go back to guarding her heart.

Stuck together in the wilds of Vermont, they forge a tenuous connection. When Ryan finally shares the truth about his illness, will it bring them closer together . . . or shatter Zara’s trust in him for good?

Inspired by 2 Corinthians 12:9, The Billionaire’s Secret is a sweet inspirational romance with a swoony hero, LOTS of entertaining banter, and a strong Christian message.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Meghann Whistler writes sweet Christian romance novels that won’t make your grandmother blush.

Her debut novel, Falling for the Innkeeper, was a #1 bestseller in the Clean & Wholesome Romance category on Amazon.ca. It was also named one of “Six Sensational 2020 Debut Series Romances” by the American Library Association’s Booklist Reader, and is currently a finalist for the 2021 Book Buyers Best Award.

Before settling down with her rocket scientist husband and raising three rambunctious boys, Meghann earned a B.A. in English from Amherst College and an M.F.A. in creative writing from Emerson College.

She is grateful to be living her dream of writing sweet, hopeful stories that demonstrate the power of love and grace.

 More from Meghann

Billionaires have been in the news a lot lately. Bill Gates was just revealed to be a serial adulterer, and both Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson recently used a portion of their riches to rocket off into space.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t find any of these guys very relatable.

So, when the idea to write a Christian billionaire romance first occurred to me, I knew it would be a challenge. I love a good challenge, though, which is what made writing this book so much fun!

Real People, Real Problems

It’s been said that death is the great equalizer, but I think illness is a pretty big equalizer, too. Old, young, fat, thin, rich, poor—it doesn’t matter. Sickness can strike anyone at any time.

And when it strikes Ryan, the hero of The Billionaire’s Secret, he doesn’t react well. He resigns himself to living without love and the family he’s always wanted . . . until he meets the heroine, Zara.

But as Shakespeare said, “The course of true love never did run smooth.” Zara’s already dealing with illness in her family. Ryan is certain she won’t want to deal with his poor health, too.

Can’t Buy Me Love

Psalm 121 asks, “Where does my help come from?”

Money can’t buy love. It can’t buy happiness. It can’t buy good health. In The Billionaire’s Secret, Ryan has to find where his help truly comes from before he’s ready for the happily ever after God’s had in store for him all along.

I hope you’ll join him and Zara for the journey!

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Meghann is giving away the grand prize package of a 1000-piece Vermont Jigsaw Puzzle, My Weekend Is All Booked Adult Coloring Book, My Weekend Is All Booked Mug, & signed copy of Falling for the Innkeeper!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway!

CLICK HERE

Bandana Acres: Kit’s New Home & My Bandana Acres Journal ~ Kathy J. Perry

 

This is a journal book that accompanies the Bandana Acres series, however, it can be purchased and used alone.  This allows kids to journal about their dreams, doodle, dream and just plan explore their feelings.  It also has questions in the book as to how they would handle a situation and space to answer them.  It begins with them to fill in information about their lives, family, school, friends, etc.  It has color photos and color coated pages to go along with the characters in the books (but you don't have to know them to understand).  If they haven't read the series, the journal will make them want to find out more.  The colors of the pages, match the colors of the covers of the books.  This is a great journal for young readers and is a guided book, that they can start anywhere and just open up the book and start writing, or they can go from beginning to end.  This is a great gift book!  I am really impressed with this journal and the whole series, and keep thinking that it would be a great tool for my Sunday School kids and how we could make it a class lesson each week.  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

This is book 5 of the Bandana Acres Series, a young readers book, however, can be read by all ages.  In this book we meet Kit a fox that learns friendship means trust, taking care of each other, keeping promises and forgiveness.  When a fire is discovered in the woods, Kit doesn't know what will happen to his home.  With the help of the Bandana animals, he soon learns about friends and how important they are in your life.   Will Kit find new friends?  Will he have a home to go back to after the fire?   What important part of the story did the Bandana animals play? 

This is a great young readers book and a great read out loud book to young ones.  It has a glossary in the back, so they can look up words that are in the story if they don't understand them.  It also has questions about what the reader would do when they have a problem with their friends? Would you be able to help your friend when in need?   For such a small book, this is packed with lots of great stuff.  Would recommend to all that have young ones, however, every age will learn from reading this book. Can't wait for the next one and meet a new character of the animal world. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Books

Book: Bandana Acres: Kit’s New Home & My Bandana Acres Journal

Author: Kathy J. Perry

Genre: Early Reader Chapter Book

Release date: November 1, 2018

Wait! That’s not a coyote. Is he here to help me?

 FIRE! Kit must find a new home in the woods. She is surrounded by wild coyotes. A banana buddy comes to her rescue. Did she earn his friendship?

My Bandana Acres Journal

 Explore your dreams, write, doodle and discover, with this guided journal!

Use the prompts and you will learn how to:

• Be thankful and optimistic
• Recognize the good things and learn from mistakes
• Make positive decisions
• Understand promise-keeping and secrets
• Break down worries and reflect
• How to ask for help

You don’t have to use the writing prompts or work in any particular order. So, if you want to start in the middle of the book, or at the end, go ahead!

Have fun!

 Click here to get your copy of Bandana Acers: Kit’s New Home!

Click here to get your copy of My Bandana Acres Journal!

About the Author

A former classroom teacher and homeschool mom, I’ve always had a heart for educating kids.

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

 More from Kathy

The inspiration for Kit’s New Home surrounds us everyday: people who say they’ll do something and then don’t; those who promise and then fail to deliver; people without reliability, honesty, or punctuality. This all boils down to the issue of TRUST. Trust is easily lost and so hard to get back.

Trustworthy people are successful, valuable, and popular in every area of life.

 Make your yes, “yes” and your no “no”.

Mean what you say and say what you mean.

Keep promises.

Hurt no one. Help others.

 Kit’s lonely and makes new friends in the farm yard. Ollie, the farm dog, explains the “rules” to him with which Kit agrees. He’s a good friend, until one day when he fails Zartie, the red-eared slider turtle.

 Later, when he’s in trouble, Ollie proves to be a faithful, trustworthy dog and saves Kit from a coyote attack.

 Here’s one question in the “What If” part at the end of the book:

 What if you promise to play with a classmate at recess, but then you have a chance to play a fun game with someone else instead? What will you do?

 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. Purple 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. Kit’s New Home 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.

 Don’t miss the companion guided journal: My Bandana Acres Journal. Perfect for readers learning to write about their thoughts, dreams, or just doodle. Use for a deeper dive into the themes from the Bandana Acres series. Currently available only from my website shop. Ages 8-12

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 with artwork from the Bandana Acres series!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway!

CLICK HERE

Footprints on Her Heart ~ Tabitha Bouldin

 

This is book 17 of the Independence Island Series, a Contemporary Christian Romance book.  This is the story of Trent and Kara, and their love for animals of the Island.  Trent is in charge of taking care of the animals at the Island Shelter.  Kara is the photographer and media person for the shelter.  They are both single, but don't feel that their lives have time for each other.  The animals are number one and when the past of Trent puts the animals in danger.... they decide to come together for the animals... could this lead them to more then co-workers?  

If you are reading the series you will enjoy this one.  If you haven't read any of the series, this can be read as a stand alone.  You will not miss anything in the book, however, the regular island characters show up in the book and you will not have much of their backgrounds.  (This might just lead you to reading the other books in the series)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

About the Book

 Book: Footprints on Her Heart

Author: Tabitha Bouldin

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: November 23, 2021

He’s saving the world, one animal at a time.

Trent Raines’ opinion, happily ever after has four paws and doggy breath. He spends his days isolated at the shelter, taking care of animals. Especially now that romance seems to be spreading across the islands faster than fleas in summer.

She lives a safe life behind the camera lens.

Kara Parker’s job at the animal shelter keeps her too busy to worry about romance. Sure, the boss is cute and all, but her introverted nature is perfectly happy as a photographer and website designer, thank you very much.

Even a quick trip to the mainland to retrieve a truckful of animals won’t change their minds.

Or so they think.

As Trent comes to understand Kara, he discovers there’s more than meets the eye in his quiet employee. Together, they plan a Christmas adoption festival that’s certain to empty the animal shelter in record time. Until a blast from Trent’s past puts all the animals in danger.

Sure, Trent and Kara are fine on their own, but they’re even better together.

What will it take for these soulmates conquer their fears and rescue the animals before it’s too late?

Footprints on Her Heart continues the Hooper Island stories of the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

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 About the Author

Tabitha Bouldin has a bachelor’s degree in creative writing/English from Southern New Hampshire University. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and has been writing since 2015. When she’s not homeschooling her kids, you’ll find her curled up with a book. Tabitha’s genre of choice is Contemporary Christian Romance which she describes as: Adventure with heart.

 More from Tabitha

I love animals. Always have. I was the kid who always brought home the injured animals and tried to make them better. I am the adult who feels guilty for walking by a hungry cat without feeding it.

When I write, those animal-loving tendencies come out. My characters will rescue animals, care for them, and love them unconditionally. My contributions to the Independence Islands are no different. When it began, I knew I needed a pet groomer, and the animal shelter developed from Mel’s love of animals. That’s when Trent showed up.

Trent walked onto the page as Mel’s partner in founding the animal shelter, Forever Pals, but I didn’t know he wanted his story told until several months after I started writing the series. I tried putting him off, but Trent was having none of that. He’s a bit overzealous and ready to share his love story with you, even if he’d rather I didn’t tell you about his troubled past.

The more I dove into Trent’s story, the more I realized he’s the kind of guy you’d call in the middle of the night when a stray dog shows up in your backyard. He doesn’t care. He’d upend his entire life to care for the animals, and he loves each one instantly, no questions asked. People…not so much.

I had the best time writing this story. Footprints on Her Heart is one of those books that I fell in love with from the very beginning. The story put itself on the page, all I had to do was be the engine and let it come to life. Those are my favorite. I wish every book came as easily as Footprints. Even though that isn’t the case, I’ll always hold this one as a dear friend. Kara and Trent make such a cute couple that I think they need to make an appearance in every island book I write from here on out.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tabitha is giving away the grand prize package 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 HERE

Deadly Target ~ Elizabeth Goddard

 This is book 2 of the Rocky Mountain Courage, a Christian Mystery and Suspense read.  When Erin, a criminal psychologist is forced to move to Montana and take care of her mother.  She is able to produce her podcast that solve's missing person cold cases in Montana.  She finds that her ex boyfriend, Nathan needs her to find out who shot his father.  Can they work together and put the past behind them?  Who and why did someone shot his father?  Is there an spark in there past relationship?

If you like a cozy murder, mystery read, then this is for you.  This book reminds me of the series on Hallmark Murder Mystery channel.  It is book 2, but can be read as a stand alone, can't wait for book 3 to be published.... great afternoon read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

Lights Out ~ Natalie Walters

 This is book 1 of The Snap Agency series.  When Egyptian spy Remon Riad goes missing, Jack Hudson is assigned as the lead on the investigation to find Remon.  When his investigation finds that Brynn, the lead CIA analyst, that hired Remon, may be involved, he is feels betrayed and questions what to do.  When they keep looking for Remon, they find more than the spy....... Could this be an investigation that will uncover more then expected?   Can they both survive?  What is the involvement with Brynn and Remon?

If you want to read a suspenseful, drama, mystery, and page turner this book is for you.  It is a book with many characters that will take you on an adventure that just when you think you know what is going to happen, it twist.  Looking forward to the next Snap Agency book.....

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

The Debutanna Code - Erica Vetsch

This book is from the Regency Mysteries Series, a Historical Christian Romance of Jane Austen meets Sherlock Holmes.  Juliette has returned home after being in school for so many years, only to find her family is missing.  When she finds out that her parents have a hidden secret, Juliette has to pick up where they left off and find them.  She is now among living the world of spies, espionage, and staying alive.  Can she find her parents while staying true to her faith and keeping her integrity?  

If you love a book with drama, suspense and page turning twist, read this book. It is a great read that you won't be able to put down.  It keeps the reader wondering what is around the next corner.  This book would make a great mini series on the Hallmark Murder Mystery channel.  Can't wait for the next one in the series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Audra Jennings Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

BOOK GIVEAWAY AND MORE

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