Chain-ged ~ Casey Cassady

 

This is a devotional type book for women that want to make changes in their lives to live for God.  It is the personal testimony of Casey Cassady and how she has used poetry, principles and prayer to break her holds on the bad lifestyle she had in the past.  It is not a book that you sit and read cover to cover.  She uses poetry in each chapter to cover subjects that you want to let go in your life.  Each chapter starts with a title, a bible verse, a poem written by Casey, the principle, a prayer and questions at the end of the chapter for you to ponder and help guide you to a new you.  This is a very unique and wonderful approach to reach out to God and healing your mind, soul and body for Christ.  Casey is open and honest about her past and how her poetry writing has helped heal her.  If you are a fan of reading poetry, you will love the style of this book.  I was impressed of the new way to reach and help others by using this type of 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:  Chain-ged

Author: Casey Cassady

Genre: Non-fiction/Christian Living/Transformation

Release date: May 4, 2021

 Casey Cassady is a young woman who, through Christ, overcame a lifestyle of partying, alcohol, promiscuity, toxic relationships, rejection, shame, guilt, regret, and probably anything else you can think of. Now free, Casey is using her new life, new future, and new passions to help other women and girls find their way out of the brokenness and bondage they were never meant for. Determined to live freely from her past, she uses poetry, prayer, and the word of God to draw us deeper into the healing process.

Chain-ged: Finding Freedom in Christ through Poetry, Principles, and Prayer is an artistic, soulful, and authentic work that teaches who God is, His character, and why He can be trusted with our fractured souls. Casey shows that as you grow spiritually and surrender to God, He will help you find your way to live a deeper revelation of who you are and the beautiful future ahead of you. Each chapter presents a poem, principle, practice, and prayer designed to help you work through your thoughts, emotions, new knowledge, and how you might respond.

The process of healing and growing into who God intentionally created you to be is not an easy journey. But the more you are able to surrender to God and allow Him to transform your mind, your heart, and, ultimately, your life, every step forward with Him, the good and the not-so-good, will be worth it in the end.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Casey Cassady is a born-again believer in Christ, author, and poet who is passionate about helping others to find hope, healing, and wholeness through her poetical testimony, wisdom, and gift of exhortation. Chain-ged is the first book of what she hopes to be many in her Finding Freedom in Christ book and poetry series. Some of the poetry in this book has been brought alive into spoken word format on her YouTube channel so viewers can connect with her through the shared experiences that we all, unfortunately, go through. Casey is currently pursuing a master’s degree of Christian Ministry with Oral Roberts University and resides in Fresno, CA.

 More from Casey

“Chain-ged: Finding Freedom in Christ through Poetry, Principles, and Prayer” is a women-focused, Christ-centered book that will take you on a poetic, authentic, and practical journey of spiritual growth and healing. Each chapter’s testimonial poem, biblical teaching, prophetic prayer, and practice section are themed to focus on various roles that God has in our lives: God is Father, God is Son, God is Spirit, God is Creator, God is Savior, God is King, God is Healer, and God is Lover.

I wrote “Chain-ged” to demonstrate a sense of relatability to readers; and to provide readers with the tools, knowledge, and wisdom needed to gain freedom in Christ. This freedom is found as identity in Christ is discovered.  It is then that hope,  healing, and wholeness comes, and purpose may be lived.

Readers will be able to benefit from both spiritual and practical aspects. For example, there is content that discusses the importance of having conversations with the Holy Spirit, and what that can look like. Other chapters focus on relationships (both romantic and familial), and others focus more on the importance of community, mentorship, accountability, and healthy decision-making processes.

I truly want readers to know the things that I wish I would have known sooner – most of which I had to “learn the hard way”. If I can be used by God to help redirect people onto the path they were created for, I will be confident that I am living in my calling.

”Wounded Warrior” Spoken Word Video: https://youtu.be/DSxoqbUZJ-A

”Expired” Spoken Word Video: https://youtu.be/Lu37qH-qyJ8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Casey is giving away a gift basket containing a hardback copy of the book, $50 Amazon gift card, and a copy of “Prayer C.H.A.T. Journal” Prayer Journal by Jessica A. Brown!!

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

CLICK HERE

The Silver Shadow - Liz Tolsma

 

This is book 11 of the True Colors series of historical true crimes committed in the past.  The story takes place during the 1900's in Denver and about a man that is stalking women walking alone at night.  When the attacker is determined to make women stay at home where they should be, his plan is to find them walking alone at night and hitting them on the head.  His whole plan is to make women scared enough to keep them at home where he believes women should be at all times taking care of their families.  When Polly, moves to Denver from PA, she is a women working for newspaper and talks her boss into letting her take on the story of the stalker.  When Polly teams up with Edwin, the detective, they are determined to find a way to solve who the man is attacking these women.  When Edwin finds that many women he is connected to are being attacked, could he be part of the reason why?  Polly is determined to write the story that will be on the front page and stops at nothing to save women being attacked.  Will Edwin be able to keep Polly safe?   Can Polly prove to the men that women can work in the media industry?  What is the real reason and who is behind the reason why where women are being attacked?

If you love history, murder, suspense, drama and light romance, this book is for you.  The story is based on true incidents that really happened in 1900 in Denver.  The story has been changed around, but due to spoiler alert, I will not being sharing.... This story is a page turner, with you think you know the suspect and then a big twist happens and the whole book changes, something I didn't see coming until the end.  Great read that will keep you up reading until you finish.... you have to know who is the man after these women and what happens to Polly...... 

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 Silver Shadow

Author: Liz Tolsma

Genre: Christian Historical/Suspense

Release date: May 2021

 A Shadowy Figure Is Intent on Harming Denver’s Women

Book 11 in the True Colors series—Fiction Based on Strange-But True History

Denver of 1900 is still a dangerous place to be following the silver crash of 1893. And of out of the dark comes a shadow intent on harming women. Ambitious young Denver newspaper reporter Polly Blythe is searching for the big story that’s going to launch her career. On Friday evening, August 24, 1900, she gets her break when two women are cracked over the head within a two-minute walk of each other. But policeman Edwin Timmer thwarts Polly’s ideas of a serial criminal. . .until the shadowy figure strikes again. Will the reporter and the policeman team up to find the culprit before he strikes too close for comfort?

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Liz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a US Marine, and her oldest daughter is a college student. Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. Please visit her website at www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@LizTolsma), Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast.

 More from Liz

One of the most popular questions I’ve gotten from many readers of the True Colors Crime series is how do I come up with the ideas for the books? For the first two, Becky Germany, acquisitions editor at Barbour Publishing, had the ideas. That made my life easy. I just had to fictionalize it, and I had a book. But when I was putting together the proposals for The Gold Digger and The Silver Shadow, it was up to me to find the true crimes I wanted to use.

 

I went online and scoured historical crime blogs and books for ideas. I wanted crimes that I could work easily with, that made for compelling stories. As I was doing this, my husband and two daughters and I were driving home from Georgia. We were somewhere in Indiana. Don’t ask me why I remember this when I can’t remember what I had for dinner last night, but I do.

 

And then on Google Books, I discovered a book about crimes the world had forgotten. The first one in there sounded so good. Not too grisly, something that no one would be able to guess the culprit very easily. It was perfect. Imagine my excitement when Becky told me they would be publishing The Silver Shadow.

 Then I sat down to research it more. And I could hardly find anything! What? Where was all the information on this? There had to be more. That chapter in the one book couldn’t be all there was. He had to get his information from somewhere.

 Eventually I did come across some articles from various Colorado newspapers with a few details. Not many at all. None from any of the Denver papers, even though that’s where the crimes were committed.

 In the end, that’s all the information I discovered. In a way, it was freeing. I could write whatever I wanted, and no one would be the wiser. Even if they did some research and some digging, there wasn’t much to find. I was able to take the facts that I did have, combine that with what I found out about Denver in 1900, and put it together in a story. I tried to use historical details wherever I could, but of my four True Colors Crimes books, this is the most fictional of them all.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Liz is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card and copy of The Silver Shadow!!

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

Click the link below to enter.

Be More than a Christian, Be a Disciple ~ Pastor Oscar Walker

 

This book is a 52 week devotional book, that teaches how you can have a stronger journey with God.  Pastor Walker's goal is to have each devotional lead you into meditation with God and make you a better person for God's work.  With these devotions, he wants you to read the devotion (meditate on God's word) , pray about it ( talking to God) and then meditate is listening to God.   This book breaks it down to how Christians should be spreading God's word by Prayer, Abiding in Jesus, Bearing Fruit and Love.  Each week is a few pages devotional that starts with the Month, Week number, quick reading, bible verses, and ends with Prayer.  

If you want a small hand held book that you can do a weekly devotional that is easy and only takes a few minutes to do, then this is for you.  It is very easy and no fancy language to try to understand.  The cover is dark and looks and heavy, but inside is lots of information. 

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:  Be More Than a Christian, Be a Disciple

Author: Pastor Oscar Walker

Genre: Christian Devotional

Release date: July 2020

 Be More Than A Christian began as weekly devotional text messages to the members of Disciples Tabernacle Church with added thoughts of the Bible, the Holy Spirit, and experiences of Pastor Oscar Walker.  Overtime, these devotional were transitioned to emails due to the abundance of information.  The devotions included in this book are revelations and illuminations given to Pastor Walker by the Holy Spirit.  These 52 devotions focus on 52 aspects of our journey with the Lord.  A thought and a devotion for each week of the year.  Pastor Walker believes devotions are mediation books. Something written in these devotions may lead you into prayer; however, the goal of this book is to lead you into meditation.

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.  But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. (Psalm 1:1-2).

One important problem among believers today who call themselves Christians is their poor witness in the world.  They present a weak commitment to living by the precepts and teachings of Christ and the Apostles.

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (James 1:22-23).

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Pastor Oscar Walker has been in ministry for over 30 years and is the founding pastor of Disciples Tabernacle Church in Houston, Texas. Prior to becoming a full-time pastor, Pastor Walker worked 35 years in the airline industry and for several years as a high school teacher.

Pastor Walker surrendered to the call of ministry in April 1997 and has been running for the Lord ever since. In 2000, Disciples Tabernacle Church was founded and has birthed ministries, such as Ministers Training College, to help equip leaders and ministers for ministry work. Pastor Walker’s call is to make disciples who continue to make other disciples following his influence and his primary ministry assignment is to teach God’s people how to have a personal relationship with Him through faith in His Son Jesus Christ.

Pastor Walker has been married to his wife, Joyce, for 54 years and has 3 daughters, 2 granddaughters, 2 grandsons, and 4 great granddaughters. His hobbies are auto mechanics, reading, gardening, and fishing. Now he tends to, “God’s garden”, and is a, “fisher of men.”

 More from Oscar

Need to connect with God on a deeper level? Want to have a relationship with Christ that is beyond the surface level? Be More Than A Christian, Be A Disciple was born out a desire to help fellow believers develop a deeper relationship with Christ through studying His Word and applying biblical principles to our everyday lives. Originally, the devotions in the book were weekly devotionals sent to our church membership for encouragement throughout the week. Over the years, the devotionals became a path to grow in your relationship with Christ and now a book. Each month focuses on an aspect of your relationship with Christ and each week takes you step by step through how to mature in your belief and faith. From the beginning of the year, starting fresh and focusing on Christ, through the middle of the year learning about the power of prayer and trusting God, to the end of the year setting your eyes on your destiny, the devotions are meant to spur your fervor and thirst for knowledge about Christ. My prayer is this book inspires you to be more than a Christian but a devoted disciple of Christ.

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Oscar 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

The Wonderful Way you are ~ Sarah E. Brooks

 

This is a wonderful book about how each child is different and special in their own ways.  The pages are filled with colors and wonderful drawings, that shows exactly how each of use can be different.  The words rhyme and flow, so reading it to children keeps their attention.  This is a book that should be read to every child and kept on hand for re-reading.  The book contains discussion questions, to help talk about what the book is about and to really allow a child to think and respond back to how they saw the book.  The moral to the book here is every child is loved no matter what.  This would be a great library book or book to have in the classroom.  This is a very impressive 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 Wonderful Way You Are

Author: Sarah E. Brooks

Genre: Children’s Non-fiction Picture Book (age 3-7)

Release date: October 10, 2020

 Every child deserves to feel fully loved, fully seen, and fully known.

We all long to feel accepted and loved. Our special needs children are no different. Growing up with a disability or chronic medical condition can create a unique set of challenges and may leave a child asking questions like:

”Why am I the way I am?”

”Is there anyone else out there like me?”

”Where do I belong?”

”Is it OK if I don’t look, think, or move like those around me?”

Based on real special needs children, the book’s vivid illustrations and rhyming text help children, with a variety of medical conditions, see their story reflected on the page, because every child deserves to see their story told.

Unlike other books that focus on a single condition, this book highlights a variety of children with different complex needs.

Some of the conditions included:

Cerebral Palsy

Cystic Fibrosis

Gorlin Syndrome

Vitiligo

G-Tubes

Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids

Prosthetic Limbs

Limb Difference

Autism/Neurodiversity

Down Syndrome

When special needs children know they are wonderful, not in spite of their differences, but because of them, they are equipped to not just survive, but thrive.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Sarah Elizabeth Brooks is a special needs mom to a warrior princess and three fantastic sons. When she’s not writing or recording instrumental piano albums, you can find her dodging Mt. Laundry to sneak away with a cup of hot tea, some dark chocolate, and a good book.

 More from Sarah

I was always that awkward kid at recess who opted to sit on a bench with a book. Not because I was antisocial, but because I loved being able to experience new worlds and adventures through the pages of a book. As I grew, that love of reading stayed with me, and it’s a pastime that I hope to pass on to my own children.

While, I always knew that I wanted to write a book one day, a rhyming picture book about special needs kids was not on my radar…that is until my youngest daughter was born. At five-months-old, she faced her first brain surgery, with a second brain surgery following two months later.

When we received her diagnosis of Gorlin Syndrome, I went into mama research mode. I wanted to do everything I could to help keep her safe and prepare her for the future. As my daughter prepared to enter a preschool for children with developmental disabilities, I wondered how others would treat her.

The Wonderful Way You Are is a love letter from a parent (or grandparent) to the child they love. It acknowledges some of the unique challenges that can come with being different from those around you, while reinforcing the truth that we all have a unique gift to share with the world.

My hope and prayer is that this book will be a blessing to families with children of all abilities, that it will open up conversations about difference, and encourage and equip children to know that they are wonderful, exactly the way they are.

 Thanks for taking the time to join me on this journey!

-Sarah

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sarah is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon Gift Card and an autographed copy of The Wonderful Way You Are!!

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

Click Here

Shielding The Amish Witness ~ Mary Alford

 

This book is part of the Love Inspired Suspense book series, each book is a stand alone mystery.  This book is an Amish Suspense mystery read.  When Faith finds out that her husband was murdered and her brother in law was behind it, she only feels safe to return to her grandmother's in Amish country.  Eli her childhood friend is there to help her stay safe and ahead of the murderers trail.  Can Faith and Eli keep ahead of the him and find all evidence to convict him before he kills them? 

If you are a fan of Amish and love a good page turner suspense, read this book.  It goes fast and you can't put it down, with many twist and turns that make you guessing until the end.  These books are quick reads and as always once you pick up you can't put down until the end.

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:  Shielding the Amish Witness

Author: Mary Alford

Genre: Amish Romantic Suspense

Release date: April 1, 2021

Seeking refuge in Amish country puts everyone she loves in danger.

On the run after discovering her brother-in-law was behind her husband’s murder, Faith Cooper can think of only one safe place—her Amish grandmother’s home. But when danger follows Faith to the quiet Amish community, her childhood friend Eli Shetler is her only protection. And their survival depends on outlasting a relentless killer…one who has nothing left to lose.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

USA Today Bestselling Author, Mary Alford, loves giving her readers the un-expected, whether it be in a rugged mountain setting or a peaceful Amish community.

Her titles have appeared on the USA Today Bestselling List, Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling List, and have been finalists in the Daphne Du Maurier award of excellence, The Beverly, The Maggie, and The Selah Awards.

Mary lives in Texas with her husband, two very spoiled cats, and a sweet rescue dog name Cody. Mary is very active online and would love to connect with readers on Face-book and Twitter or any social platforms listed at www.maryalford.net.

 More from Mary

As a reader, I love books that are part of a series. There’s something comforting about being able to revisit characters that are special to me and meet new ones along the way. You get to go back to your favorite place and hang out with the people who make you smile.

It’s like coming home.

When I set out to write a series about five Amish brothers, I knew exactly where I wanted to set the series. The West Kootenai Amish community in Montana. West Kootenai is a remote community with sweeping mountain views surrounded by vast wilderness spaces. The perfect setting for suspense, along with a chance at redemption and a second chance for the hero and heroine. I love that.

In November, I introduced Covert Amish Christmas, the first book in the series that featured Aaron Shetler, the oldest of the five brothers.

In Shielding the Amish Witness, we meet Eli Shetler, a widower who has returned to West Kootenai to try to start over after his wife’s death two years earlier.

Eli is reunited with his childhood friend, Faith Cooper, who is running from a relentless killer who was once part of her family.

The book takes the reader through the breathtaking countryside of West Kootenai and into the homes of the Shelter family. We get to catch up on what Aaron and Victoria have been up since last we met and are introduced to some new family members. That’s the wonderful thing about series.

So, come with me on a trip to the beautiful community of West Kootenai, Montana where I hope my characters will make you feel right at home.

In writing about the Amish, I’ve come to love preparing their dishes. I’ve tried many recipes, from Amish Pizza to Friendship soup. But one of my all-time favorites is Amish Fry Pies. They are SO good!

Today, I thought I’d share the recipe for Amish Apple Fry Pies. I love this delicious desert and I hope you will as well.

Blessings always,

Mary Alford

 AMISH APPLE FRY PIES

(recipe curtosy neighborfoodblog.com and a favorite of mine)

yields: 6

INGREDIENTS

For the filling:

• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 teaspoons cider
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the dough:

• 2 cups flour, sifted
• 4 Tablespoons butter
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/3 cup HOT milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the glaze:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 Tablespoons milk
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

INSTRUCTIONS

1. To make the filling, combine the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a small saucepan. Cook on medium heat until juices start to form, about 3 minutes. Make a slurry by whisking together the cider and cornstarch. Stir this into the pan, turn the heat up to high, and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture is thickened, about 3 minutes longer. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. For the dough, cut the butter into cubes then use a pastry cutter to work it into the flour. Continue to cut in the butter until it’s in small pea-sized lumps. In a small mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and salt together. Slowly pour in hot milk, stirring constantly. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture. Stir together until a dough begins to form. Turn the dough out onto parchment or wax paper, and knead it until it smooths out, about 1 minute.
3. Divide the dough into 6 equal sized pieces and roll them each into a ball. Use a rolling pin to roll them out to about 6-inch circles. Fill each circle with 2 Tablespoons of apple mixture. Fold the dough in half over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal. You can flute the edges or use a fork to crimp them. If the edges aren’t sealing properly, wet them with a little water.
4. Heat the oil in a deep saucepan to 350 degrees. You can test to see if the oil is ready by sticking a wooden spoon into the center of the pot. If small bubbles form around the handle, you’re ready to go.
5. Place the pies in the hot oil one at a time and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to dry.
6. Repeat with remaining pies.
7. While the pies fry, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. It’s best to glaze the pies while they’re still warm. I use a pastry brush to brush the glaze on one side then let it dry, flip them over, and glaze the other side. You can put two coats of glaze on for extra sweetness if you like but wait for the glaze to harden in between coats.
8. Pies can be stored uncovered for 2-3 days. If you want the glaze to remain hard, do not place the pies in a plastic bag or sealed container. Just leave them on a wire rack or pan.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mary 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

Chased~ M. Liz Boyle

 

This is book 2 of the Off the Itinerary series.  This is book takes us to a year later after the Avalanche from book 1, and we start off on this adventure of hiking.  The group of five in this adventure explore the mountains in Montana.  They come across a hiker named Thad, who they invite to join them until they realize that they may be in danger because of Thad.  Thad is a treasure hunter and feels that the friends are after his treasure.  The five friends try to escape Thad and are led on a journey of danger through rough terrian and having to hike through darkness.  Can they survive the terrible trouble they are in trying to escape from Thad?  What is all this treasure about?  Will God provide safety for them and get them back to safety?

This is a young readers series that has suspense, drama, faith and trust in friendship.  This is a great read for any age of teens and up, if you like a fast pace moving book, then you will enjoy this one.  This will teach about how keeping your eyes of God will always protect 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:  Chased

Author: M. Liz Boyle

Genre: Christian Y.A.

Release date: June 1, 2020

It’s been a year since Marlee, her sisters, and the Miles boys survived an avalanche. Sure, it was a little embarrassing for them when all the neighbors saw them on the news, but they love being outdoors, and what are the odds that another tragedy would strike this adventurous group? Has anyone calculated the statistics of being hit with two natural disasters? It has to be low, so of course the two families planned to backpack again this summer.

When the teens first meet Thad, a dehydrated hiker on the trail, they give him water and food and help him recover. He seems harmless until he tells them to hike a few extra miles at sunset. Then Lydie finds a hand-drawn map that Thad dropped, and they discover why he is so eager to get away from the Stanley girls and Miles boys. So eager that he starts chasing them.

Now they have to climb up unforgiving ridges, sneak through the night, and – is that thunder and lightning? To make matters worse, Marlee has a nagging worry that her older sister Ellie is preparing to move away from home.

Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Liz is the author of the Off the Itinerary series, the wife of a professional tree climber and the homeschooling mom of three energetic and laundry-producing children. She received her Associate’s of Arts at the University of Sioux Falls, where she received the LAR Writing Award for her essay entitled, “My Real Life Mufasa.” Liz once spent a summer in Colorado teaching rock climbing, which she believes was a fantastic way to make money and memories. She resides with her family in Wisconsin, where they enjoy hiking and rock climbing. Liz and her husband have also backpacked in Colorado and the Grand Canyon, which have provided inspiration for her writing. She likes making adventurous stories to encourage others to find adventures and expand their comfort zones (though admittedly, she still needs lots of practice expanding her own comfort zone).

 More from Liz

Five years ago my husband Dustin and I took a dream-come-true trip to the Grand Canyon. On the first day we hiked to the bottom of the Cathedral Staircase. To picture the Cathedral Staircase, think of the longest set of stone stairs in the world, double it, and put it in a (scenic) pizza oven. Oh, and strap a 50-pound bag to your back. It was there in the sun that we met a young couple who was sorely unprepared for the elements of the Canyon. The young lady had signs of heat exhaustion, and the guy didn’t have a clue what to do. Thankfully our group was able to help them and call backcountry rangers to get the couple to safety. The situation was eye-opening on many levels. After the shock of witnessing such a close call settled down, my creative side saw the experience as inspiration for Avalanche’s sequel. Except in my book Chased, I added a plot twist. When the dehydrated hiker recovers, he becomes a threat to the very people who saved his life. I had a blast writing Chased, and I hope you enjoy the adventure, too!

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, M. Liz is giving away the grand prize of a signed copy of Chased and a $25 Amazon gift card!!

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

CLICK HERE

Autumns Harmony ~ Donna Wyland

 

This is book one in the series it is a Christian Fiction read.  Anna is struggling with her mid life, she starts to figure out what is going to make her happy again.  She has been married for a long time, has two children and a very deep secret that she has kept for all her life.  She has tried everything to bring back the happiness in her life, without getting the joy she is looking for.  On her journey of finding forgiveness, faith and hope, will she be able to realize she is very blessed with the life she has created and the past is the past and God forgives.  Can Anna's friend Lori, help her with forgiveness and finding joy or does Anna have to face this on her own?

I would recommend this book for all women to read, as you can relate to lots of what Anna is feeling in your everyday life.  This is a great book club or women's ministry read and includes a reader's questions at the end of the book, for discussion.  Can't wait for Book 2 - Autumn's Song available in 2021...... 

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:  Autumn’s Harmony

Author: Donna Wyland

Genre: Contemporary women’s fiction

Release date: October 20, 2020

 For every woman who has ever desired

to make sense of her past, find joy in

the present, and discover God’s purpose

for her future.

Anna Bentley needs a new life. Struggling in a long-term marriage with two children and carrying a secret that stole her joy many years ago, she begins to search for the key to happiness in marriage and in life. When peach martinis, lacy lingerie and Nicholas Sparks novels fail to quell her discontent and spice up her failing marriage, she finds what she was looking for in the most unlikely place.

Autumn’s Harmony is a poignant and witty tale about the healing power of forgiveness, reconciliation and new beginnings.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Donna Wyland is an award-winning author whose personal essays and poetry have appeared in numerous publications. Her published work includes picture books, Your Home in Heaven and If I Could Ask Jesus, and a gift book titled Surrender. Donna is a mother and grandmother, and she lives in the Midwest with her husband surrounded by quilts, crafts, and oodles of books. To learn more, visit www.freetobe.faith or connect with Donna on LinkedIn, Instagram and Pinterest.

 More from Donna

Anna Bentley needs a new beginning. Most women have felt the same way at one time or another. When life is routine and marriage & family are a struggle, where can you find true happiness? Anna discovers her new beginning in an unlikely place – the same place I found mine when I was thirty-three. Join Anna on her journey to reignite the happiness in you.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Donna is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of Autumn’s Harmony and a $25 Magnolia Market E-Gift Card!!

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

 CLICK HERE 

Someone to Trust ~ Lesa Henderson

 

This book is a Sweet Inspirational Romance read.  Megan is struggling with a broken heart and her past, she decides to get away and move to the quiet town of Laurel Crest.  Lee is new to the town and wants to get out of the busy and crazy life he is in now.  When the two collide, does this change the course of their lives?  Lee is interested in finding out more about Megan, however, Megan is scared because of her past and heart break, she is dealing with trust.

Can Lee show her that Megan can trust him?  Will these two become friends that will lead to more?

This is a cute afternoon read, that will keep you reading until the end.  It is a page turner that keeps you cheering for Lee and Megan to be together.... can they survive Megan having trust issues?  Will their faith show them that they are meant to be together?

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:  Someone to Trust

Author: Lesa Henderson

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: January 26, 2021

Megan McCormick doesn’t leave Atlanta looking for love. Far from it. She runs to the mountain town of Laurel Crest to flee from her past and a broken heart. When she’s knocked over by Lee Grainger, handsome veterinarian and lover of small-town living, Megan’s life takes an unexpected turn.

Tired of fast-paced city life, Lee is considering a permanent move to the mountains. His run-in with Megan has him believing he’s in Laurel Crest for more than a partnership in an animal hospital.

After a case of mistaken identity is cleared up, Megan and Lee strike up a friendship. Lee is everything Megan ever wanted—smart, loyal and dedicated to his faith. But Megan has experienced deep betrayal twice, and she’s reluctant to give romance another try.

Can Megan come to terms with the secret that haunts her, get past her distrust of men, and accept the love Lee offers or will her heart be broken again?

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Lesa Henderson has been an avid reader since she first learned how to read and loves getting lost in the world the author creates. She’s been writing since the age of 10 and has since been published in many national magazines and is also a screenwriter. She lives in Florida with her husband Ken, their three children and a Schnauzer named Jackson.

 More from Lesa

In Someone To Trust Megan McCormick (the heroine of the story) though very disciplined,  loves icing-filled, chocolate chip cookies.  I love the combination myself.  Especially butter-cream icing.   I’ll do an extra mile of running to have one.

She’s also a bit of a klutz and I drew some of her mishaps from my own unfortunate past episodes.  I’m a bit more graceful now but  definitely share some embarrassing incidents with Megan.   I’m also a screenwriter, so I did my best to relay Megan’s clumsiness, in a way hopefully that reader could easily see in their mind.

I wanted to tell a story of someone who was very broken by her father’s betrayal of her mother when she was a little girl.  Many of us have suffered father wounds that greatly impact us, even down the road in our lives.

As the story began forming  in my mind, I wondered what would happen if Megan became the very thing she despised her father for?  How would that impact her life?  Naturally, it would compound her distrust of men, as well as bring on self-loathing.

Of course this brought up the issue of forgiveness.  Not only the ability to forgive those who have hurt us but also the grace to forgive ourselves.

This is something Megan needs to learn.  Although, she is beautiful and caring,  her heart is cloaked in bitterness and she’s running from her past.  And we all know, sometimes our past comes back to haunt us when we least expect it.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lesa is giving away the grand prize package of a digital copy of the book Someone To Trust, as well as a DVD of the Film Hope Has A Name!!

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

Click HERE

Road to freedom - Leigh Lincoln

 

This is book 2 of the Broken Roads series. Francisco escapes Cuba to find a better life, only to find that he is now faced with terminal cancer and homeless, what will he do?  When he meets Stacy, little did he think he would find his past coming back to find him.  Stacy has her own problem of dealing with a bad marriage, she finds Francisco and her both have pasts to deal with.  They decide to go on a journey together traveling around the world.  Can they make amends to the past and find faith?  How do each deal with the past and find hope for the future?

This is a read that takes you on a journey of heartbreak and devastation.  It moves at a good pace and keeps you wondering how will they both deal with their problems?  Should they be together?  How does God put all of this together?  This is book 2 of the series, however, each one is read as a stand alone.

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:  Road to Freedom

Author: Leigh Lincoln

Genre: Christian Literary Transformational Fiction

Release date: October 16, 2020

A marriage which shouldn’t be. The path to forgiveness begins in unlikely places. And love can bloom among the thorns.
Immigrant Francisco has escaped the cruelty of Cuba, but has been a man without a true home. Now terminal cancer has driven him into the arms of Stacy.

Traveling half-way around the world together, they each have a journey to take. Francisco confronts his past. While Stacy tries to open her heart after a devastating first marriage. Both pushing each other in ways they are unwilling to accept.

Can he make amends and say he’s sorry for his wrongs? Can she learn to let go and be free to love again?

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Leigh has spent the better part of the last thirty years involved in homeless and poverty advocacy in one way or another. Her first novel – Road Home – was born out of this work. She wanted to make people think about their lives and how they live. But most importantly, about how they treat others and how they want to be treated. Her second novel – Road to Freedom – looks at how our lives don’t always follow the path we choose. But yet somehow we must pick up the broken pieces and move on. How we grow and where our strength comes from is what’s most important. These two novels form the basis for her series – Broken Roads. Each shows how life is raw, painful and often leads us on journeys we never expected or imagined. While each book doesn’t seem to relate, the final book in the series will connect the dots of how these characters have touched the lives of each other in ways they never knew. Keep watching for updates on when new books will come out!

Leigh loves to travel, paint and hike. You never know where she’ll end up next, for she’s on her own journey of discovery.

 More from Leigh

I wrote this book as my pandemic project – with all this time on my hands I needed something to do. No traveling, no meeting new people, no leaving my house, no, no, no. Fine, I thought to myself, I’ll sit at my computer and remember people I’ve met on my journeys, places I’ve been, things I’ve seen, foods I’ve savored. And then cram them all into a book. For those of you who want to be adventurous, I’ve learned how to make paella. It works best in a heavy skillet on a gas stove, but a non-stick pan or an electric stove will work as well. Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup stock, 1/8 cup olive oil, 1/4 large onion finely chopped, 1 clove fresh garlic minced, 1/3 cup tomato sauce, handful of fresh peas, 3/4 cup pearl or valencia rice, 1 large bay leaf, 1 cup meat (chicken, Spanish chorizo or seafood – or go crazy and do a mix of meats), salt, pepper and saffron to taste. Instructions: Saute onions, garlic, bay leaf in olive oil until soft. Add rice, continue to saute for 3-5 minutes until rice is a golden brown. Add about a 1/4 cup of stock, tomato sauce, peas, and spices. If you are using chicken add it at this point. Cook on low or medium low, shaking the pan from time to time, making sure the rice ends up level. Slowly pour about 1/4 cup of stock evenly around the pan every 5-10 minutes. Do not allow it to come to a boil, do not stir and do not cover. When the rice is almost tender, add Spanish chorizo or seafood if that’s your meat of choice. I often serve paella with fresh bread, a bowl of olive oil to dip the bread in and a few slices of lemon if people want some tang added to their paella.

Giveaway

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

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

 Click HERE

I Witnessed Miracles ~ Maureen Chevalier-Seawell, M.D.

 

This book can be read as an inspirational book, light reading, daily devotional and a book that you just pick up, open and read a few pages.  It is the story of the many experiences that Dr. Maureen Chevalier-Seawell has encounters over decades of being a doctor, believing in God and praying.  Every chapter is a few pages long and tells a story of how God worked in life of people each day, with a scripture verse at the end of the chapter.  The incidents cover a wide variety of health, financial burdens, daily announces and many more. It is a book to read from cover to cover,  just read a chapter a day as a devotional or just pick it up and open to any page and read.

If you like inspirational and encouraging reads that will make you smile then pick up this book.  It is small but has many different miracles talked about in a wide variety.

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:  I Witnessed Miracles

Author: Maureen Chevalier-Seawell, M.D.

Genre: Christian non-fiction

Release date: April 30, 2020

Do Miracles really happen?
Does God still heal the sick?  Dr. Maureen Chevalier-Seawell says, Yes! In the hope and faith inspiring book,
I Witnessed Miracles Dr. Chevalier-Seawell recounts the dozens of miracles she witnessed in her thirty-three years of medical practice and in her personal life.  Thomas had a stroke which did not resolve in two years. But then…
When he was hospitalized for a different problem, he was re-evaluated by stroke-rehab. Their evaluation was: no hope. His prayer group prayed for him every night for three weeks. Thomas regained everything the stroke had taken away.  Jessie lost her vision for six months. But then…
She came to the office for surgical clearance for her ophthalmologist. After anointing with oil and receiving a brief prayer, she awakened the next morning with her sight restored to normal.  Elizabeth had lupus for ten years. Her joint pain, Raynauds and fatigue were increasing. But then…
On the 700 Club on TV she heard, “There is somebody out there…and she has Lupus. God is healing her right now.”
And he did.  Every chapter tells the individual uplifting story of each person’s devastating diagnosis when medicine failed them and then the miraculous recovery as God healed their body and revived their spirit.  I Witnessed Miracles is a profound recollection of inspirational stories that will give you positive reinforcement, drawing you closer to God and refreshing your faith. A read you won’t forget.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Maureen Chevalier-Seawell, MD graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BS in Chemistry then completed medical school and a residency in Internal Medicine. She is board certified in that specialty. She has practiced medicine for 36 years and has taught medical students for more than a decade.

 Read an Excerpt

”Faith was a single mother in her late twenties. Very pretty. Upbeat personality. She was well liked by most people. Faith was also a devout Christian. She shared her faith constantly like seeds in the wind. She worked in an office in the building where I leased space.

It was late in 2005 that Faith developed a physical problem in her mouth. Her dentist removed the right upper wisdom tooth, but the wound did not heal. She had been seeing the dentist for weeks. He would debride the wound and cover it. Then she would go back for more debriding. The painful, dime-sized wound refused to heal. After six weeks of conservative care, her dentist told her the hole would not close on its own. She would need surgery, so he made the referral.

This was the day she told me about the problem. She was visiting in our office just at closing. She pulled out a pocket flashlight and showed me her gum. What I saw was a lesion about the size of a dime and deep. I could see white uncovered bone, but the wound was clean. There was no dead or infected tissue. I didn’t know why with the care she was getting the wound had not healed.

In a purely social way, I told her that I hoped all would go well with her and proceeded to exit the building. It was already getting dark. The winter sun went down early. That day had been a particularly long one. I was tired. My coat was on my body, my purse on my shoulder, and my briefcase in my hand. I was done. I pushed open the heavy glass door and walked toward my car. Next stop, home. No sooner did I get outside the building than I heard the Spirit of the Lord speak to my heart: “Are you my servant or aren’t you?”

I was so tired. I didn’t want to go back into the building. I wanted to go home. I had a short discussion with myself, turned around, and went back to find Faith. Fortunately, she was right where I had left her. She had found someone else to talk to. I asked her if she would be offended if I said a brief prayer for her and applied the oil. “No, that would be wonderful,” she said.

I returned to my office, retrieved a drop of oil that had been blessed, and placed it on her face near the wound inside her mouth. I put my hand on her shoulder and prayed a very short but sincere prayer in the name of Jesus. I still had my coat on, so I shouldered my bag, picked up my briefcase, and left.

I was interrupted in my morning schedule by my office manager. She told me Faith had been healed. My whole office was excited. Faith was jumping up and down. The hole in her gum was gone. She was still carrying her flashlight, so I could see where it had been. There was nothing in her mouth but clean, well-healed skin. It couldn’t have healed like that overnight. Faith’s dentist didn’t believe it either, so she took time that day to show him. He, too, was amazed.

There is no medical explanation. I give the glory to the Lord Jesus, our Savior.”

Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples!

Shout to God with the voice of triumph!

Psalm 47:1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Maureen 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 Here

At lighthouse point - Suzanne Woods Fisher

 

This is book 3 of the Three Sister Island series, a Contemporary Christian read and the last of the series.  This book covers the story of the third and final sister Blaine Grayson along with the other sisters from the other 2 books.  When Blaine returns to Three Sister Island after being in Paris for 2 years learning her cooking skills, she comes back to not what she expected.  Her dream of returning and opening an exquisite restaurant at her father's camping area, is turned upside down.  Everything is all wrong and her sisters and father, just will not understand, along with her feelings hurt, she has not way of telling them of the hurt.   She goes along and tries to find what to do next in life, when her friend from Paris comes with her, he is very helpful in a way she is not expecting.  How will she make her dream happen?  Can she find love for the Island that she left years ago?  What about the past and the loved ones she left?  It all depends on what Blaine will decide to do.

If you like Hallmark movies then this book is for you.  It is very real and at times will make you laugh.  It leaves you cheering for each of the sisters to find happiness.  This is book 3 but can be read as a stand alone as each book is the story tells of one of the sisters.   If you read them in order you will get more of a feeling of what they have been through.  If you only read this one, you will want to go back and read the others, however, if you don't read in order you will know the ending of the other books.  I loved this series and didn't want it to end... maybe there will be a book 4... just don't end it, please.

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:  At Lighthouse Point

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: May 4, 2021

Blaine Grayson returns to Three Sisters Island with a grand plan–to take Camp Kicking Moose to the next level. Her dream starts to unravel when she discovers Moose Manor’s kitchen has been badly remodeled by her sister, Cam, who doesn’t know how to cook. Added to that blow is the cold shoulder given by her best friend, Artie Lotosky, now a doctor to the unbridged Maine islands.

As old wounds are opened, Blaine starts to wonder if she made a mistake by coming home. Little by little, she must let go of one dream to discover a new one, opening her heart to a purpose and a future she had never imagined.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Award winning author Suzanne Woods Fisher writes for readers who have learned to expect the unexpected. With more than one million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the bestselling author of more than 30 works, ranging from novels to non-fiction books to children’s books. Currently, she lives with her very big family in the East Bay.

 More from Suzanne

10 Curious Facts about Lighthouses

 People love lighthouses. There’s just something special about those sturdy sentinels with their beacons of light, patiently sweeping the water, their mournful and haunting wail of a foghorn. Longfollow’s poem, The Lighthouse, written in 1850, captured the allure so well:

 And as the evening darkens, lo! how bright,

Through the deep purple of the twilight air,
Beams forth the sudden radiance of its light,
With strange, unearthly splendor in the glare!

 “Unearthly splendor.” Wow, doesn’t that hit the nail on the head? A lighthouse, to me, represents a spiritual truth: Someone’s watching out for us, looking out for the dangers ahead, and always glad to welcome us home.

  Here are 10 facts about lighthouses that you might not know:

 THE FIRST KNOWN LIGHTHOUSE was Egypt’s Pharos of Alexandria, Egypt, built in the third century B.C. The lighthouse was made from a fire on a platform to warn sailors of the port’s entrance. This lighthouse was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

 THE OLDEST EXISTING LIGHTHOUSE IN THE WORLD is considered to be La Coruna in Spain that dates from ca. 20 B.C. A Roman lighthouse is located on the Cliffs of Dover in the UK that was constructed in 40 A.D.

 THE UNITED STATES IS HOME to more lighthouses than any other country.

 THE FIRST LIGHTHOUSE IN AMERICA was at Boston on Little Brewster Island (1716). The first keeper was George Worthylake who, sadly, was drowned, along with his wife and daughter, when returning to the island in 1718.

 THE TALLEST LIGHTHOUSE is on Cape Hatteras, NC. Built in 1872, it reached 196 feet tall.

 THE FIRST WEST COAST LIGHTHOUSE was built on Alcatraz Island in 1854.

 DAYMARKS are the painted colors and patterns (diamonds, spirals and stripes) on lighthouse towers to distinguish them from each other.

 LIGHTHOUSE KEEPING was one of the first U.S. government jobs available to women, as far back as the 19th century. Most obtained their position when their husband died or became incapacitated.

 THE RANGE OF THE LIGHTHOUSE LIGHT produces a light seen 25 miles at sea.

 ABOUT 700 LIGHTHOUSES are still in active use in the United States.

 As I wrote the third book in the ‘Three Sisters island’ series, I just had to give that little charred lighthouse its day in the sun. It had patiently played a role in the first two books, waiting for its turn on center stage. Not only did its setting provide a very unexpected “WHAT? How did that happen?” conclusion to the series, it even stole the headline! The undisputed title: At Lighthouse Point.

 Do you have a favorite lighthouse? If so, please add your picture in the comments below. Don’t forget to include its location.

 Thanks for reading! Stay well, stay home, and read.

 Suzanne

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne 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 Here

A Second Chance for Grace ~ Karen Malley

 

This is book 3 of the Pine Springs series.  Susan is content with her life and just going through daily life of problems dealing with her apartment tenants and their small issues that are big issues for them.  When she finds that her teenage niece is pregnant and no where to turn will she step in and help her?   The mystery continues when she finds a briefcase just left by someone in an apartment, what does this mean? She is also dealing with Mac someone that wants to spend more time with her and her crazy life, however, could there be someone else in the picture?   Will Susan figure this all out, why has all of a sudden her life turned upside down and everything coming at her?

Want a book that is a short read and is about how God gives people second chances, you just have to follow Him and stay on the path of faith.   This is a book with drama, mystery, faith, and compassion all wrapped up into one.  It is book 3 of the series, but all books of the series can be read as a stand alone. 

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 Second Chance for Grace

Author: Karen Malley

Genre: Christian Women’s Romantic Fiction

Release date: April 23, 2021

A new life coming into the world disrupts Susan’s quiet life.

Susan Montgomery is used to a quiet, peaceful life managing her apartment building, where the hardest problem is her grouchy neighbor’s leaky faucet. She soon finds herself dealing with a pregnant teenage niece, a mysterious briefcase left behind by a tenant, and two very different men vying for her heart.

A near-death experience gives Mac a new outlook on life.

Christopher “Mac” MacAllister is trying to figure out how to “do the Christian thing.” As a new convert, he’s drawn to Susan’s love for life and for God. She’s nothing like the women he used to date; but can Mac compete with the guy who’s come out of nowhere and knows all the right things to say?

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Karen is an author of Christian fiction. She lives in Southeastern Pennsylvania with her husband and two sons. She works full time as a scientist, but enjoys writing in her spare time. When not writing (with her left hand), she enjoys camping, hiking, playing board games, and especially reading! She loves reading faith-based stories, because we can all use a happy ending.

 More from Karen

Follow your heart or your head?

In my early days in college, I dated a young man who wasn’t a Christian, but that didn’t stop my attraction to him. My heart wanted to be with him, but my head knew better. Later, another young man entered my life who was perfect for me on paper. He was kind, intelligent, taught Sunday school… We went out one time, but there wasn’t a spark. I decided I had to find the guy who captured both my heart and my head.

Fast forward to the summer before my junior year, and a third young man entered the picture. He was fun to be around, made me laugh, and believed in Jesus. We became friends and spent a lot of together before I finally admitted my attraction to him. Having been hurt before, I vowed not to get involved unless God was in it. I prayed about it, felt God’s blessing, and we’ve now been married over 20 years.

In A Second Chance for Grace, Susan finds herself in a similar situation. Mac instantly captures her heart, but circumstances cause her to doubt whether he’s the right man for her. When she meets Sam, she finds he checks all the boxes on paper, but she can’t seem to convince her heart he’s right for her. Having been in the same situation, it was easy for me to write about Susan’s dilemma.

Susan navigates many twists and turns throughout the book, from her pregnant niece moving into her apartment, to dealing with a mysterious briefcase left behind by a tenant, to trying to solve the dilemma of which man to choose. Through it all, she tries to follow God’s will for her life.

A Second Chance for Grace is the second book in the Pine Springs series. Mac and Susan meet in the first book, Following the Sparrows. To learn more about them (and their good friends), you’ll want to read Following the Sparrows first, but it isn’t necessary, as A Second Chance for Grace is a standalone novel.

Just like in real life, the characters in the novel have difficult decisions to make. Sometimes they make the right ones, sometimes they do not. Through it all, God proves He is the God of second chances!

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package of an eBook copy of the first book in the series, Following the Sparrows, along with a journal and necklace that go with the theme of the book!!

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

 Click Here

To Save a King ~ Rachel Hauck

 

This is book 2 of the True Blue Royal series.  This is the story of a fairy tale waiting to happen.  Gemma leaves her acting career and goes back to the country to live in a small town in Tennessee to put her past behind her and try to forget what happened in Las Vegas.  John is a prince, has come to the small town to find his sister and have her go back to England to meet the Queen her mother, that she has never met before.  While in Tennessee John finds Gemma to be of interest to him, however, knows both of them are from different worlds and how can a romance be?  When the Queen takes ill, John is summons back to England and then has his sister come to visit.  His sister brings Gemma along as a companion to this difficult time.  When Gemma see John's world, she realizes that she doesn't fit into his world and they both resist the temptation of being together.

I would recommend this page turner to anyone that loves a good romance series with ups, downs, twist and turns.  Just when you think you know what is going to happen, a new twist mystery happens.  This is book 2, but can be read as a stand alone, I advise for you to read book 1 of the series also, as they are sooooo gooood and keeps your attention.

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:  To Save A King

Author: Rachel Hauck

Genre: Christian Royal Romance

Release date: May 8, 2021

A modern-day fairytale of rescue and hope from NYT bestselling author Rachel Hauck

Growing up in small town Hearts Bend, Tennessee, Gemma Stone had big dreams. So she headed to Hollywood to make her mark in the world.

But dreams have a way of becoming nightmares. When she returns home twelve years later, she’s limping through life and harboring a dark secret.

Running a rescue ranch and raising her friends’ orphaned daughter is her sole mission now. All the while she’s well aware these defenseless ones are also rescuing her.

HRH Crown Prince John has learned a royal title cannot shield him from heartbreak. He had the perfect life as heir to the revered House of Blue, the royal dynasty of Lauchtenland, and married the love of his life. Then tragedy changed everything. Is there any way to be saved from a life of grief?

When he finds himself in Hearts Bend on a mission for his mother, Queen Catherine, he catches up with a good friend–country music great Buck Mathews. He has no intention of joining the 4^th of July fun until he’s cajoled into a three-legged race with the beautiful Gemma Stone.

The disastrous race leads to a quick friendship. They are easy and comfortable around one another because love is absolutely not an option.

John desperately wants to hold onto the memories of his wife while Gemma refuses to trust her heart to any man. Even a prince.

When trouble in Lauchtenland calls the prince home, he realizes how much Gemma has rescued him. Saved him and restored his hope for his role as future king.

For Gemma, falling in love with the prince must be quenched. If it weren’t for her past, she’d give him her heart in a second. How could she risk bringing her shame to the House of Blue and the world stage?

However, she’s not the only one who can rescue and heal the wound. If she saved Prince John, why can’t he save her? And when he tries, will she have the courage to say yes to the best role of her life?

“Another compelling royal story by the master of princely tales!”  Susan May Warren, USA Today bestselling, RITA award-winning novelist

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 About the Author

Rachel Hauck is an award winning, New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author.

She is a double RITA finalist, and a Christy and Carol Award Winner. Her book, Once Upon A Prince, first in the Royal Wedding Series, was filmed for an Original Hallmark movie. Three more of her titles are under film contract.

Rachel was awarded the prestigious Career Achievement Award for her body of original work by Romantic Times Book Reviews.

A retired member of the American Christian Fiction Writers Executive Board, she teaches workshops and leads worship at the annual conference. She is a past Mentor of The Year.

In the real world, she’s a wife, writer, worship leader and works out at the gym semi-enthusiastically.

A graduate of Ohio State University (Go Bucks!) with a degree in Journalism, she’s a former sorority girl and a devoted Ohio State football fan. Her bucket list is to stand on the sidelines with Ryan Day.

She lives in sunny central Florida with her husband and ornery cat.

 More from Rachel

One of the biggest challenges in a series is keeping the reader interested. Even more of a challenge is writing in a trope like royals.

I never set out to write a second royal series. With five stories in the Royal Wedding Series, I thought I’d explored the topic to my satisfactions.

Yet when readers asked for more, and when I found myself in a season to produce my own stories, another royal series seemed like the perfect fit.

But can I be honest? Really honest? Come close. I’ll tell you a secret. Closer…

Royals can be a bit boring. At least to write. You laugh but I’m serious.

What do we really know of their day to day lives? They attend national functions, patron charities, represent the nation on walkabouts around the world. They are ambassadors with no real political agenda. They champion causes.

But what exactly do they do with their days? What are the inner workings of palace life? What are the real expectations? Do they call the queen “her majesty” when talking among themselves? When talking to her? Are they as formal as it seems on television?

Yet royals are the most documented people in history. So there is a lot to glean from when I make up my worlds.

But at the end of it all, they key for me in writing royal characters is to make them real, everyday people. The prince is the kind of chap you want to chat with over tea. The heroine is the sort of girl you’d love to see become a princess. Maybe even see a bit of yourself in her.

In To Save A King, Crown Prince John is trying to emerge for a year of grief. Gemma Stone is desperate to escape her past.

Gemma’s story has some what of an edge to it. In her attempt to achieve her goals, she walked a path she never thought she’d walk when she was a girl growing up in Hearts Bend, Tennessee. And it proved her undoing.

While we may have never faced a past like Gemma’s, we can all relate to personal betrayal of our values from gossip to immorality. I hope Gemma’s story reminds us the nearness of love and forgiveness.

On a lighter side, I recently learned British society has moved away from chap and bloke, replacing it with the American term “guy.” Isn’t that funny. Louise Lee, my narrator, said it was funny to read those words in To Love A Prince since there were more her parents’ generation. Ah, the signs of a more global society.

Well, I didn’t care if they have gone out of style for young people. I used them anyway. I like them. Maybe we should adopt “chap” and “bloke” over here. What do you say, guys?

I hope you enjoy To Save A King, book two in the True Blue Royal series and find your heart cheering on broken, wounded characters to a happily ever after worthy of a prince and princess.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away the grand prize of a Kindle Fire!!

*May be different than one pictured.

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

Click Here

A Mother for his Twins - Jill Weatherholt

 

This book is from the Love Inspired Inspirational Romance series books.  Joy is a teacher and has two new students (twin boys), she never dreamed the father of the boys was her high school sweetheart, Nick,  now a widower.  She finds out that Nick has also become her neighbor and is competing with her for the job of school principal. Can they put the past behind them and work together for the twins?  Who will get the job they both want?  What does being neighbors mean for both of them and the boys.

This is a quick afternoon read, that will inspire you of how life throws curves and makes you deal with the past and present.  If you are a fan of Hallmark movies, read this book.  The love inspired series are all stand alone reads with each one having their own story, but each one is heartfelt and inspiring to 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:  A Mother for His Twins

Author: Jill Weatherholt

Genre: Inspirational Romance

Release date: Sept, 2019

First-grade teacher Joy Kelliher has two new students—twin boys who belong to her high school sweetheart. If teaching Nick Capello’s sons wasn’t difficult enough, the widower’s also her neighbor…and competing for the principal job she wants. Now with little matchmakers drawing Joy and Nick together, can they overcome a painful past to build the family Joy’s always wanted?

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  About the Author

She holds a degree in Psychology from George Mason University and Paralegal Studies Certification from Duke University.

She shares her life with her real-life hero and number one supporter. Their relationship grew on the golf course, and now they have one in their backyard.

Jill believes in enjoying every moment of this journey because God has everything under control.

 More from Jill

Back in 2019, when my editor sent me a cover mock-up for my third Love Inspired book A Mother for His Twins, I was thrilled to see the art department had used a picture of my hero’s twin boys, Jordan and Tyler Capello.

I had so much fun developing the characters of these two little rascals. Although they were twins, I wanted to make sure they each had their own unique personality.

Once I had Tyler’s character sketch completed, I went to work developing Jordan. Unlike his brother who is the outgoing one of the two, I wanted Jordan to be more quiet and shy than his twin. That’s when I decided to draw on my own experience as a child.

Like Jordan, I had a speech impediment when I was a child. I was unable to pronounce the letter R. Because of this, I was teased by my classmates. To make matters worse, once a week, my speech teacher would come and pull me from my classroom for my private session. I can still hear the giggles and murmuring that filled the room. Thankfully, with a lot of instruction and practice, I was able to overcome the impediment.

Life is full of obstacles. Looking back at what we’ve overcome gives us the confidence to keep pressing forward when we know God will never leave us.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jill 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.