Choir Loft Murders ~ Karen Randau

 

This is book 3 of the A Frankie Shep Suspense Series, a novella.  When Frankie is at choir practice of her church, one of the best singers and soloist is murdered with a dart gun.  When the pastor of the church and fiancée of Frankie is prime suspect and arrested for the murder; Frankie can't sit back and have an innocent man go to jail.  Frankie does her own detective work to find out why and who is person that would kill someone.  Is this a single incident or is it part of a serial kill?  Can Frankie find out who did it and risk her own life? Will the killer, kill again?  Who will be next? 

If you want a fast and quick read of suspense, drama and a surprise ending, then read this book.  This is one of those books that will keep you guessing until the end.  I didn't read book one or two and felt that I didn't have the background of Frankie or Quinn, but reading this as a stand alone was not a problem to understand the story.  I think I would go back and read the first two, just because this one was sooo good and to get more of a feel for Frankie and her life story.

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:  Choir Loft Murder

Author: Karen Randau

Genre: Mystery Suspense

Release date: August 24, 2021

In book 3 of the Frankie Shep Suspense Novellas, a member of the church choir dies during rehearsal, and the apparent murder weapon—a blowgun—implicates the man Frankie loves. She’s shocked to discover Quint was a champion at the sport before he accepted the senior pastor role at the church. And he’s refusing to talk about his fate.

Her investigation reveals that Quint isn’t the only person with the skill to hit a woman’s carotid artery while she’s singing a high note, and Frankie is convinced someone is framing Quint. The closer she gets to proving it, the more she faces a stalker’s deadly wrath.

Can Frankie save herself and the man she loves from becoming the next victims?

Get your copy here!

 About the Author

Karen Randau authors fast-paced mystery, thriller, and suspense books, including the Frankie Shep Suspense Novella series, Rim Country Mysteries, and Deadly Reception (a stand-alone novella as one of seven of the Tawnee Mountain Mysteries box set written by best-selling and award-winning authors). Her Rim Country Mystery novel, Deadly Payload, was a finalist in the Book Excellent Awards and the Beverly Hills Book Awards. She’s a lifelong writer, both for fun and as a professional in marketing communications. She holds a degree in journalism/public relations. A native of the southwestern U.S., Karen lives with her husband in Arizona.

 More from Karen

Since Choir Loft Murder is the third book in the Frankie Shep Suspense Novellas series, I wanted to show how Frankie has grown through the series—from broken woman who is angry at God for allowing the deaths of family into a strong and happy woman who relies on God to help her through an unusually tough life.

She has shown her grit in all three novels in the series, and this one shows how she has grown through the adversity life has thrown at her.

In writing Choir Loft Murder, I wanted to show that ordinary people usually are stronger and more resilient than they know.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 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

Liberty Lane and the One Girl Rebellion ~ Shaylene King

 

This is a for young readers, however, any age can read this book... what a great story.  Liberty is set on getting to be the next queen of the Royal Crown competition and is picked to work with a group of other teens competing for the same crown.  As they compete she finds that someone in the group is determined to win, unfairly and that person is sabotaging the tasks and interfering with the contestants.  Liberty is very strong willed and honest, she is willing to stick up for the truth and show who is not the honest one.  Can she stop the saboteur?  Will she win the competition  or does it even matter anymore?    

I loved this book, even though it was written for young readers, this book is so entertaining and full of wonderful characters.  It is one of those quick reads that you just wish this was a tv series that would bring back morals and integrity to tv.  I really would like the author to make this book into a series, I would buy all of them and read over and over just for fun and relaxation. 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:  Liberty Lane and the One-Girl Rebelution

Author: Shaylene King

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Release date: December 31, 2020

American Idol meets the bible in this modern retelling of the book of Esther creatively re-imagined for a younger generation

Sir Frederick Preparatory School’s Royal Crown competition is only the biggest singing competition on planet earth! So, when Liberty Lane O’Shea, is catapulted into the singing competition to compete for the coveted crown, it’s a dream come true.

Her dreams are dashed when she meets a beastly contestant who plots to vocally “kill off” anyone who might pose a threat to his rise to fame.

To halt the contestant’s vile ruse, Liberty Lane and her cohorts in crime, best friend Calliope and cousin Lincoln scheme to foil his evil ploys.

When Liberty Lane finds herself blackmailed, she is faced with a tough choice. Will she expose this contestant, divulging a secret of her own, and possibly disqualify herself from the competition? Or, will she watch the other contestants “die” an early Royal Crown competition death, putting the crown surely within her grasp?

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Shaylene is an anti-bully activist. She speaks to thousands of students each year across the country and internationally, empowering them to live with profound purpose when they learn to combat mean and cultivate kindness.

She is the founder of The Mean Girl Extinction Project a 501(c)3 on-profit created to address the rise in relational aggression among girls. She teaches girls how to not only survive girl world but to make a difference and thrive in girl world. She leads assemblies, workshops and speaks at girls events, camps, clubs and retreats.

Shaylene also teaches and trains the nation’s leading student-led bully prevention program called  Safe School Ambassadors. Equipping students with the tools they need to develop self-confidence and practice and promote positive communication with their peers.

Shaylene lives with her husband in Middle Tennessee, sailing the unchartered waters of empty nesting. She enjoys any time she gets to spend with her two grown children who are off exploring the world and living the life God created them for.

 More from Shaylene

Liberty Lane and the One-Girl Rebelution was birthed from my love of fairy tales and reading Bible stories to my kids. I have likely read every modern retelling version of classic fairy tales like Cinderella and Snow White and the Seven Dwarves! One night, while reading a Bible story to my kids at bedtime, I noticed it read a lot like a fairy tale, only it was true. What fun it would be to write a modern retelling of my favorite Bible stories! And, rest is history… or at least a re-telling of history!

 This book was a labor of love. It was fun to creatively reimagine what an Esther story might look like today. More important, though, I wanted to create a strong, confident young girl, one who was perfectly imperfect, able to think for herself and stand for what she believed in, even when it was hard—a one-girl “rebel”ution. My hope is that girls might connect with Liberty Lane and feel they too can be comfortable in their own skin and stand by their convictions. When they make a mistake, they can right their wrong, hold their head high, and press on. Speaking the truth is never easy to do, but I want them to know, it will always be the right thing to do.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Shaylene is giving away the grand prize a $50 Amazon gift card, a signed hard back copy of my book, book bag and 2 BookStubs (Free ebook download) … One BookStub for the winner and one for a friend!!

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

CLICK HERE

Vision ~ Hope Bolinger

 

This is book three of the Blaze Trilogy, a young readers Christian Suspense read.  Danny is a teen that is sent to a psychiatric ward hospital after he has a gun shot wound.  He is being held their because they think he is going to committ suicide, only to find that his visions show differently.  He finds friends on the ward and also finds other troublesome issues going on at the hospital.  Can he get out of there?  Can he get his new friends to safety?  What is all this going on?

I would recommend this book to any young or old reader that wants a suspenseful thriller type read.  I do caution that the story does deal with heavy teen issues, suicide, depression, accecptance and many more that may cause emotional stress for some readers.  Another caution is I suggest you read book one and two before this one, as this was the first one I have read in the series and I felt lost at times and wanted more of the background and if  read the others now, I would know the outcome......  Overall a good fast pace 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:  Vision

Author: Hope Bolinger

Genre: YA Christian Suspense

Release date: August 9, 2021

 Rabbits for Food meets Waiting for Fitz meets One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

After Danny Belte ends up with a gunshot wound to the head, he’s shipped off to a local psychiatric center under the assumption he’d attempted to commit suicide. Knowing that he’d actually been killed by a fellow enemy at his high school, and a photographic memory to prove it, manages to keep him sane.

After meeting the fun and playfully rebellious members of his ward, he suspects that some underlying connection ties them all together. Haunted by revealing visions, he may have a shot at  discovering a conflict of interest and buying their ticket out of the ward.

But memories are dangerous things. He may just make as many enemies as friends at the ward who want his memories erased.

A modernized take on Daniel 7-12.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Hope Bolinger is a content editor at Salem Media and a multi-published novelist. More than 1000 of her works have been featured in various publications ranging from Writer’s Digest to Keys for Kids to HOOKED to Crosswalk.com. She writes about 250-300 articles a year.

She has worked for various publishing companies, magazines, newspapers, and literary agencies and has edited the work of authors such as Jerry B. Jenkins and Michelle Medlock Adams. She had four of her books traditionally published in the last three years (see below) She has 8-9 books scheduled to published between 2021-2023.

She has won awards for her essays, poetry, children’s books, novels, and plays. Her favorite way to procrastinate is by connecting with readers on Instagram and Twitter @hopebolinger .

 More from Hope

“The Book of Daniel? In a high school? Where on earth did you come up with an idea like that?”

 I’ve gotten this question a number of times and the answer to it comes from an even stranger place than the concept itself … a college classroom.

 We’d blitzed through the entire Old Testament in a semester for our Biblical Literature Class my freshmen year. The professor often accompanied each class for this Gen-Ed with a PowerPoint full of 70 or so slides we’d try to keep up with in our notes. Our hands would cramp from the sheer speed our pencils had to go across the paper.

 One day, as she went over the Book of Daniel, something she said snapped me out of my 9 A.M. stupor. “Daniel, and his friends, would’ve been 14 or 15 years old when taken into the Babylonian captivity.”

 This woke me up. I’d dropped my pen onto the paper and stared at the front of the atrium classroom for a few moments. Fourteen or fifteen? High-school aged?

 I’d always pictured Daniel in his late thirties. Part of me blames VeggieTales and Larry the Cucumber’s rendition, which in no way could’ve been interpreted as a teenager’s voice. But the reality of the Old Testament story came crashing down on me right then and there.

 Daniel had been evicted from his home through the Babylonian siege. He likely watched his friends and family members die at the hands of the Babylonians and the fires that scoured Jerusalem. Then he and the cream of the crop were herded to Babylon for a three-year education, where they tried to stamp anything Israelite out of him.

 And yet, he trusts God. He continues to stand strong in his identity. As do Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—even when it meant certain death … as teenagers.

 That got me thinking about culture now. And how so many Christian teens face problems and dilemmas we could’ve only dreamed about in our adolescent years. What would it look like to stick Daniel in a modern-day high school? I thought.

 So that summer, I started to write the Blaze trilogy. I chopped the Book of Daniel into three parts, and showed a teenager standing strong in integrity and faith despite death threats, bullying, and peer pressure. It was the book I needed back in high school when confronted with hot-button issues, and I was so thankful to have that college professor guide me to learn more about the prophet Daniel in the Old Testament.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Hope is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a paperback copy of each book in the trilogy!!

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

CLICK HERE

Fool's Luck ~ Dave Milbrandt

 

This is a political fiction book.  Myles buys a lottery ticket just by being at the store that day... he wins the jackpot.  His family is shocked and suggest many things to do with the money, however Myles knows what he wants to do... run for president.  Most of the story is how Myles gets on the ticket and how his friend helps him...... a little bit of family involvement and a very quick ending.

I would recommend this to those that want to read a non-eventful political agenda book.  I was looking forward to reading this and was disappointed by not being very moving book.  The book started out very good, however, it never took off from the campaign trail, when tragedy struck the family, it was only a chapter and not very heartfelt to the read. (it happened and moved on).  So much potential and not really a great ending, it just ended.  The lottery was at the beginning and then by the middle wasn't even talked about.  I was sad that the author had a great idea for this book but didn't hit the mark for me. 

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:  Fool’s Luck

Author: Dave Milbrandt

Genre: Political Fiction

Release date: July 13, 2021

 When high school teacher Myles Bradford wins the Powerball lottery, he decides to do something truly unexpected: run for President of the United States. Bradford is eager about the opportunity, but his family clearly is not. With little time to sway them to his side, he’s thrust into running a quarter-billion-dollar nationwide campaign, complete with cross-country flights and road trips, expert staff, and armed security. But like most dreams, Bradford soon finds that what he imagined is completely different from what is real. Thrust into the spotlight, he faces attacks from newfound political enemies and false accusations while striving to climb the ladder of success. As Bradford gets closer to achieving his dreams, danger lurks on the home front. As his attention is pulled farther away from the things that matter most, Bradford may learn that even success has its price. Will he be able to have it all? Or will his thirst for power come at a tremendous cost?

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

The author of the Jim Mitchell series of novels (Chasing Deception, Undue Pressure and Running), Dave Milbrandt fell in love with writing in junior high and has been a storyteller ever since. A former staff writer for a daily newspaper, the Southern California native spent five years in journalism and public relations before becoming a teacher.

In addition to working at several colleges, Dave has taught high school English and Social Science classes since 2005. Dave and his wife, Renée Lynn Milbrandt, who is also a writer, have been married since 1997.

Find out more about Dave and his latest projects at www.davemilbrandt.com

 More from Dave

Telling Other People’s Stories

 One of the benefits of being married to a fellow writer is that you have a built-in sounding board for story ideas. Your next novel can come from something as simple as a dinner conversation or one person musing out loud and before you know it, the two of you are heaping ideas on top of each other until the bare bones of a promising story emerge.

 That’s how Fool’s Luck started. My bride and I were talking and she wondered aloud about why people who won the lottery don’t so something spectacular and world-changing with the the winnings. Before I knew it, we were talking about one “lucky” such person deciding to spend his winnings on a run for president of the United States, and my latest novel was born.

 Like with all my books, first came the outline, followed by the research. For my previous trilogy (Chasing Deception, Undue Pressure and Running), the protagonist Jim Mitchell was a much more exciting version of myself, so I could write about being a journalist, college professor and political candidate (for the latter, I had worked enough campaigns to paint some broad brushstrokes).

 With Fool’s Luck, however, the only part I could directly relate to was the fact Myles Bradford and I were both married high school teachers. But that was only going to take me so far. I had friends give me insight about life in other parts of the country, and fill in blanks about medicine and private security, but there were two parts of the story that I knew would involve details requiring some pretty in-depth, and sometimes painful, interviews.

 The first major tale I had to tell was a political one and a good friend gave me insights that helped build out that side of the story with richness and depth.

 The second story, the personal one, was much harder to flesh out. More than medical information, I needed emotions, real, raw emotions, to tell my story and give my characters depth. This need drove me to interview a parent of a former student of mine. Her story was so heart wrenching, so real, that it was hard to read without crying. Her willingness to share her story, to open up a wound, was brave beyond words. Her generosity helped me create a tale would ring true with my readers.

 All storytelling is sharing the very real emotions of friends and family, strangers and acquaintances, in a fashion that retains the truth while weaving in enough fiction to keep the story true to itself. Balancing the nonfiction within the fiction with finesse is the key.

 Making readers laugh once in a while along the way, well, that’s just the icing on the cake.

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Dave is giving away the grand prize of a paperback copy of Chasing Deception!!

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

CLICK HERE

Flipping Hearts ~ Chautona Havig

 

This is book 13 of the Independence Island Series and takes place on Hooper Island, a Christian Contemporary read.  After a storm hits the island and does alot of damage, Brook steps in and sets up Bailey and his tv show to help the islanders get back to normal.  After Brook finds this is not the deal they all expected, she has to make this right with her friends and family on the island.  Can Brook and Bailey work together to make it right?  Will they be able to prove that they both were not the cause of the bad deal?  Is there more to their story????

If you want a fun afternoon quick read, this is the book to read.  This series is a fun one to read, you can read in order of the series or read as stand alone.  Note: characters from other books, re appear in the series and you may not recognize them unless you read in order (but it will not leave you hanging in any of the books of 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

When a hurricane rips through Hooper Island, a tidal wave of TV crews follows and upsets the locals.

Brooks Crawforth agreed to volunteer crews helping to clean up and repair things on the island, not a whole home and garden series on the total renovation of several houses and a bit of cleanup on the side. He’s furious, and the show host is spitting nails at the person who blew it in the first place.

His and his father’s jobs are in jeopardy, the islanders are about to kill him, and that crazy show host blames him for her assistant’s last-minute, “you’ve-got-to-sign-this-now-or-we-can’t-come” contract.

One more thing. Did she have to be so cute?

He’s got even more trouble, though. Islanders are starting to blame Mallory Barrows for the invasion. Not only that, there are rumors of dismantling the association and allowing tourism on the islands. How’s he supposed to fix this mess?

They can’t stand each other, but if they can manage to flip off the enemy switch and flip on some cooperation, maybe their hearts’ll get flipped, too.

This “enemies to romance” novel introduces the next island in the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

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

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

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

 More from Chautona

How I Almost Missed This Important Life Lesson

He annoyed her. The guy was bossy, demanding, rude, and unwilling to admit fault—mostly. Truth be told, she was pretty much the same. Two people with similar faults. The relationship would never happen.

Now what was I supposed to do?

Without any idea how I’d take two near enemies and turn them into a couple, I kept writing the primary story—the one that was supposed to bring them together. The one that would have driven me far, far away from a guy like Brooks.

Right about the time I thought about that is when Bailey had her revelation. “He likes me.”

I nearly did a spit take. I mean, where did that come from? Why would he like someone who hadn’t bothered to be likeable?

And still the story unfolded. “Life or death” moment? Check. Unintentional sharing of attraction and heart. Check. Still confused author as these characters draw closer and closer… check, check!

It took until after the story’s climax for me to realize that Brooks really did like Bailey for who she was—and vice versa. Only after all that tension diffused and their distrust had been smashed to smithereens were Bailey and Brooks able to examine everything. Only after that was I able to realize a truth I hadn’t expected to learn.

People fall in love with people they argue with.

People in love argue. See, my husband and I don’t do that. We don’t argue. Ever. Do we agree on every little thing? No. We just don’t argue about it.

Look, it’s not like I’ve never written people who argue. I do. But Never have I looked at a fictional relationship, seen that it would produce the kind fireworks that Bailey and Brooks will, and thought, “Oh, they’re perfect for each other.”

Because see… if I were Bailey, I’d run. Fast. Conflict is a natural part of life and relationships, and I’m not so naïve as to think it’ll never occur. But entering a relationship knowing it’ll be a regular occurrence? Unthinkable!

So as I pondered all this during those last pages of the book, something hit me.

Jesus enters a rocky relationship with us. Willingly.

Don’t believe me? Think about it. Jesus knew, before He ever spoke light into existence, that His bride would blame Him for… pretty much everything. He knew she’d get him brutally murdered. He knew she’d rail at Him, spit at Him, abandon Him, cheat on Him, and even after forgiveness… she’d do it all over again the next day.

Even knowing all that… He still whispers to our hearts, “Be Mine. I love you.”

If that’s not the most beautiful, unbelievable, amazing thing, I don’t know what is.

It’s probably one of the most important life lessons I’ll ever learn. People choose to be in relationships with people they know they’ll argue with—people who will hurt them, annoy them, demand things of them. And the greatest example of One who does it so beautifully is Jesus. Because see… Jesus entered that relationship with me, knowing I’d be that person. Humbling, yeah. Important life lesson? Most definitely.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away the grand prize package of $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

Dogwood Winter ~ Candace West

 

This is book three of the Valley Creek Redemption series, a Christian Romance book.  This is the story between Ella and George they are attracted to each other, however both are dealing with problems and the past.  Ella is dealing with a medical condition that she doesn't know how the outcome will be.... George is dealing with a problem that has come about due to his career and a choice that he made.  They live far apart from each other, but keep in contact.  Can they become a couple and move forward with a future together?  Or will their past differences become an issue to keep them apart?

Want a great romance read that keeps you holding onto faith, that these two people can forgive and forget to move forward for the future.  If you want a book about family, friends and forgiveness this is the one for you.  This is the third book in the series, but 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:  Dogwood Winter

Author: Candace West

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: August 24, 2021

A Lukewarm Correspondence. A Tattered Reputation. Two Hearts at Odds.

He is walking away while she is fighting to walk.

After a springtime swim, Ella Steen is stricken with a dire illness, leaving her without the use of her legs. Meanwhile, Dr. George Curtis, the man she secretly loves, faces ruin. For over a year, the crusty New York City bachelor and vivacious spinster have exchanged dozens of letters and formed a wary friendship.

Neither are willing to open their hearts completely. Until they face each other. The past looms between them, however. Does George still love another or is his heart completely free?

A trip to Valley Creek holds the answers. Instead, when George and Ella arrive, they encounter obstacles that force other truths to the surface. Is George brave enough to confront what he fled in New York? Can Ella confess why she hates dogwood winters? Will their hearts survive?

If only their pasts would keep out of the present.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Candace West was born in the Mississippi delta to a young minister and his wife. She grew up in small-town Arkansas and graduated from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. At twelve years old, she wrote her first story, “Following Prairie River.” In 2018, she published her debut novel Lane Steen, book one of the Valley Creek Redemption Series. By weaving entertaining, hope-filled stories, Candace shares the Gospel and encourages her readers. She currently lives in Arkansas with her husband and their son along with two dogs and three bossy cats.

 More from Candace

Biscuits and gravy has been a staple for generations in my family. It’s perfect for any occasion or breakfast, dinner, and supper. Yes, in our neck of the woods, dinner is lunch, and supper is—well, supper.

And then, we have biscuits and gravy with a twist. We’ll shove the traditional aside for a bowl of chocolate gravy. That’s right, chocolate.

Now, don’t get grossed out. Some people believe chocolate gravy is this weird, mysterious concoction made with meat grease. It’s the gravy part that boggles their mind, but it’s actually straightforward and easy—not true gravy at all. Trust me, if you like chocolate, you’ll want to try this. When you butter a biscuit and drizzle the chocolate over it, you’ll get a little taste of heaven on earth.

And you’ll get a little taste of the Appalachians and Ozarks.

My grandparents, both raised deep in the Arkansas Ozarks, were raised on “chocolate an’ biscuits” and passed the recipe down to us. Throughout the mountains and in pockets throughout the country, you’ll find this lesser-known treat on kitchen tables and family gatherings.

Every recipe is a little different. Every family has their own special way of making it. My family likes their chocolate gravy a little thinner while my husband’s family wants theirs to be the consistency of pudding.

In Dogwood Winter, my characters would’ve eaten chocolate an’ biscuits. Their corner of the Ozarks is famous for it. I can see Ella and George, along with the Steen family, gathering around a table, saying the blessing, and passing the fare to each other. The only skeptical one in the bunch would be George, a New Yorker who wasn’t raised on it. One bite would make him a believer.

Have you ever eaten biscuits and chocolate gravy? If not, would you try it?

This is our family recipe.

Chocolate Gravy
1 ½ cups sugar
1 tbs Hershey Cocoa powder
2 ½ tbs flour
Mix dry ingredients in a saucepan
Add 1 ½ to 2 cups of milk (depends on the thickness you want)
Bring to a boil and cook until thickened (3 or 4 minutes) Note: Bring to a slow boil and continually stir. Remove from heat then add 2 tbs butter and 1 tsp of Vanilla extract. Pour over buttered biscuits and enjoy!

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Candace 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

Walking in Prophecy, Signs & Wonders ~ Glenda Jackson

 

"and it came to pass," this is the ministry that Glenda says God gave her to fulfill for His work.  Her goal is Preach God's word, Pray for His will, Prophesy in His name and then have the faith that His will shall come to pass in the people around her.  Glenda claims that when God uses her, she calls them the "come to pass moments".  She claims in this book that God has chosen her as a prophecy and she has supernatural powers that God has given her to do His work through her.

I had a hard time getting through this book as it is not something I agree with.  Yes, I do believe God does miracles everyday, however, as I was reading her stories and belief, it didn't feel God was doing the work, Glenda was taking the credit and she wanted to take the credit of making the miracles happen, not God. (this is only my opinion and I don't discourage anyone to pick up this book, read it and establish your own judgement and beliefs.)   

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: Walking in Prophecy, Signs & Wonders

(Please note: This title has been from Call of the Watchmen to Walking in Prophecy, Signs & Wonders.)

Author: Glenda Jackson

Genre: RELIGION / Christianity/Pentecostal & Charismatic

Release date: August 10, 2021

 God is prophetically speaking to us today while performing signs and wonders in the last days. These movements of the Spirit are a continuation of the signs, wonders, and other supernatural works God has done in the past to demonstrate His power and glory. Through miracle testimonies, faith-building teachings, and remarkable accounts from her personal family heritage—including miracles in the life of noted healing evangelist Maria Woodworth-Etter—Glenda Jackson shows how God can work powerfully in your life, bringing to pass what He has ordained for us and His purposes in the world. Discover what it means to be a prophetic watchman and a vessel for God’s glory in these momentous days before Christ’s return.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Glenda Underwood Jackson is a powerful prophetess and healing evangelist. She moves in signs, wonders, and miracles to glorify Jesus. Since 1974, Glenda has been a missionary evangelist. Her primary ministry focus for over thirty years was Native Americans, ministering to many tribes throughout California, Nevada, and Arizona.

Glenda comes from a Church of God background. Her father, C. L. Underwood, was a healing evangelist who saw many great miracles in his services. Her great-aunt was Maria Woodworth-Etter (1844–1924), whom some considered to have had one of the most powerful evangelistic ministries of modern times.

On December 29, 2007, on her birthday, Glenda had a powerful angelic visitation from the Lord in which she was told that doors would open to her to major ministries throughout the United States. Since then, doors have swung wide open to her ministry. Glenda has ministered at several Fire conferences for evangelist Benny Hinn, at King Jesus International Ministry with Apostle Guillermo Maldonado, and at the World Convention of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International. She has also appeared on Sid Roth’s It’s Supernatural! Glenda has ministered in numerous churches, conferences, and camp meetings in the United States, Europe, and Africa. Her ministry is marked by her accurate prophetic words. Glenda often says in her response to her ministry, “I’m nothing; it’s all God.”

 More from Glenda

God is prophetically speaking to us as He works signs and wonders in these end times. Discover what it means to be a prophetic watchman and a vessel for God’s glory in these momentous days before Christ’s return.

Giveaway

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

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

CLICK HERE

Lethal Cover-Up ~ Darlene L. Turner

 

This book is part of the Love Inspired Suspense Inspiration Romance series books.  Madison, border patrol Officer finds herself teamed up with Tucker, constable to find out who is behind selling tainted drugs.  They find themselves trying to keep alive, while tracking down who is responsible for the drugs could this be the same person responsible for Madison's sisters accident?  Do they get justice for both illegal activity and the accident?  

If you love a suspenseful, fast moving, twists and drama, read this book.  This is a page turner that I had a hard time writing this review because I didn't want to include any spoilers.  You will not be able to put down this book until you reach the end.  When you start reading, make sure you have lots of time to finish... or else you will be staying up until you find out what happens.... another great book from this series of stories.

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:  Lethal Cover-Up

Author: Darlene L. Turner

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: July 27, 2021

 Some secrets are dangerous…

But uncovering the truth could be deadly.

Border patrol officer Madison Steele knows her sister Leah’s fatal car crash was no accident. Someone’s willing to kill to cover up a pharmaceutical company’s deadly crime of distributing tainted drugs. Now they are after Madison to tie off loose ends. But with her high school sweetheart, Canadian police constable Tucker Reed, at her side, can Madison expose the company’s deadly plan before she becomes the next victim?

Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Darlene L. Turner is an award-winning author and lives with her husband, Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message. You can connect with Darlene at www.darlenelturner.com where there’s suspense beyond borders.

 More from Darlene

The Hidden Staircase, The Secret of the Old Clock, The Sign of the Twisted Candles—these were just some of my favorite Nancy Drew books. I couldn’t get enough of them growing up! My family often saw me with my nose stuck in one of Nancy’s many tales. When I was finished with those, I’d sneak my brother’s Hardy Boy books and devour them too. This is where my love of writing and of a good mystery/suspense began.

Creating stories in the romantic suspense genre was a natural journey for me. I had always wanted to be a policewoman after watching Charlie’s Angels (they even kicked butt while wearing high heels…what could be better than that?!), Cagney and Lacey, Police woman, Murder She Wrote, etc. My love for all-things-mystery carried into my adult life. Who doesn’t love Sydney Bristow and Kate Beckett?

I enjoy creating strong female characters in a law enforcement role. Madison Steele fits the bill head on as she works to bring down a ruthless pharmaceutical company. While she has nerves of steel, I also wanted to make her vulnerable. In the beginning Madison loses her long-lost sister in a heart-wrenching crash. One she knows was not an accident. This thrusts her into a deadly pursuit of the perpetrators with her estranged high school sweetheart, Tucker Reed, by her side.

 I wrote this book during the tough year our world faced living in the unknown. Madison and Tucker are stuck in their own fears but eventually find hope. Hope in the unknown and hope in knowing God is in control and with us—no matter the circumstances. We just need to know where to look.

 I hope you enjoy reading Madison and Tucker’s story as much as I loved crafting it. I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me through my website www.darlenelturner.com and also sign up for Darlene’s Diary newsletter to receive exclusive subscriber giveaways.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Darlene is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a paperback copy of Lethal Cover-Up!!

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

CLICK HERE

Summer Plans and Other Disasters ~ Karin Beery

 

Callie thinks that she has God's plan for her life all figured out...does she really???  When everything keeps happening she wants to believe that this is God's plan, not her choice that she is making and choosing what she wants. This story gives many characters and entertainment of what Callie ends up doing.

I received this as an audiobook and would much rather read the book. This is only my opinion and nothing to do with the story: just the audio -  Audio books don't keep my attention. I also find that I tend to do other things and not really get attached to the story.  (just something to keep in your mind if you want to try audio.) If you are an avid reader and have a love to hold that book and turn the pages get the book.  If you want a story while in the car or traveling this would be a fun audiobook to choose.  I think I would have loved this if I  had read the book and not listening to the audio........

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:  Summer Plans and Other Disasters

Author: Karin Beery

Genre: Women’s Romantic Fiction

Release date: April, 2021

Elementary school music teacher Callie Stevens thinks she’s finally figured out God ’s plan for
her life—she even made a list to keep her on track. Moving in with her brother and reconnecting
with her ex-boyfriend are at the top of the list. What ’s not on the list is running into her
childhood crush, Ryan. God wanted her to connect with Kyle, right? Trying to figure out God ’s
plan is hard enough. But a dating-averse older brother, the young blonde who adores him, a
pregnant best friend, and Callie ’s continual mishaps make her wonder whether her best-laid
plans were truly God-inspired.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Karin Beery grew up in a small, rural Michigan town where she wrote her first novel in high school. She’s still writing today, telling contemporary stories with a healthy dose of romance. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s editing or teaching it. And when she’s not doing that, she enjoys time at home with her husband and fur babies, once again living in a small, rural Michigan town.

 More from Karin

I discovered audiobooks two years ago, and they have changed my life! Now I look forward to long car rides and endless hours cleaning and cooking. Well, I don’t really look forward to the cleaning and cooking, but at least the chores are tolerable because I just turn on a new book and listen to a story while I work! I know I’m not the only one who multitasks with audiobooks. I had a few friends ask me when my books would be available in audio form so they could listen—with long commutes and families at home, they prefer listening to their books in the quiet of the car.

That’s why I’m so excited to bring Summer Plans and Other Disasters to audiobook, and I’m just as excited about my narrator, Jasmine Zhwalen. Summer Plans was my first published book, and now it will be Jasmine’s first too. As soon as I heard her audition, I knew I wanted her to give Callie, Jack, Stacey, and Ryan their voices. Considering it’s the first go-round for both of us, I think it turned out pretty well!

Thanks for listening!

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karin is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Audible gift card!!

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

CLICK HERE

Rhapsody in Red ~ Donn Taylor

 

This is book one of the A Preston Barclay Mystery series, a Christian Suspense Mystery read.  When Preston and Mara find a body, they soon find themselves being blamed for the death.  They are now having to prove their innocents and at the same time, trying to stay alive and find out who the real murderer is.

If you like a good murder mystery read, then this is the book to read.  It keeps you interested by having a few twist, drama and suspense all wrapped into one book.  Can Preston and Mara keep themselves out of jail and solving the murder??  If you want to know, you will need to read this book and then you can read more 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:  Rhapsody in Red

Author: Donn Taylor

Genre: Mystery

Release date: September 2018

“IT WAS A BAD DAY TO FIND A CORPSE ON CAMPUS.”

Preston Barclay is a reclusive history professor with musical hallucinations. The feisty Mara Thorn is a newly arrived professor with a strong desire to be left alone. But finding the body of a murdered colleague shakes them out of their quiet lives. Worse yet, police accuse them of her murder, forcing the ill-matched pair into an uneasy alliance for their defense. However, that proves more perilous than they’d thought. To succeed, they have to outwit the police, avoid discipline by the college’s incompetent administration, and escape threats and attacks by the unseen and ruthless forces behind the murder. It’s a one-in-a-hundred chance, and if they fail, they’ll end up unemployed, behind bars, or worse . . .

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Donn Taylor led an Infantry rifle platoon in the Korean War, served with Army aviation in Vietnam, and worked with air reconnaissance in Europe and Asia. Afterward, he earned a PhD in Renaissance literature and taught literature at two liberal arts colleges. His published works include six suspense novels and a book of poetry. He is a frequent speaker at writers’ conferences. He lives in the woods near Houston, TX, where he writes fiction, poetry, and essays on current topics.

 More from Donn

About Rhapsody in Red: From teaching eighteen years in small denominational colleges, I knew that part of the academic world well. So when I came to write the Preston Barclay Mystery Series, that’s where I turned. What would happen if someone dropped a murder into that placid environment?

That was the basic question. But that part of the college world also has internal conflicts and tensions that even the best-intentioned people can’t avoid. That leads most faculty into being discreet. But what would happen if one professor kept saying openly what the rest of the faculty were only thinking? That’s why the series protagonist, Professor Preston Barclay, is always in trouble.

In writing the series I wanted to mainly to give readers an interesting story about a murder and the complications leading to its solution. But I also wanted them to enjoy the story’s interplay of strong and often quirky personalities navigating the varied conflicts of the small-college world.

Whether I’ve achieved those objectives will be decided by each individual reader. But CBA Retailers and Resources Magazine wrote that  Rhapsody in Red is “peopled with academia’s most intriguing eccentrics and snobs,” and Christian Review of Books wrote that it’s “a delightful change from the clichés of most novels.”

Readers who enjoy Rhapsody in Red may want to look at its two sequels, Murder Mezzo Forte and Murder in Disguise.

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Donn is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card plus one paperback copy of Rhapsody in Red!!

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

CLICK HERE

Finding Common Ground ~ Robynne Elizabeth Miller & Marilyn Siden

 

This is a true story of Marilyn's journey when she decides to find out on a trip across the United States of how people really feel about the country and it's leadership.  She finds that when she ventures into big cities, little towns and even some ghost towns, she seems to find they all have things in common and people are all having the same feelings about the country and it's future.  

This is a book that can be read by all ages, it is interesting to read about how the real people of USA are feeling and how media and officials are not seeing how the people are feeling.  This book can be read cover to cover, a chapter at a time, or just pick it up and read anywhere in the book and you will find it to be real and true to people and what our future needs to survive and all come 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:  Finding Common Ground: One Octogenarian’s Quest to Help Our Nation Heal

Author: Robynne Elizabeth Miller & Marilyn Siden

Genre: Narrative Nonfiction/Memoir

Release date: April 2, 2021

Because she’d had enough. Enough anger. Enough hatred. Enough division.

Marilyn Siden has lived through much: the aftermath of World War II, Korea, and the horror of Vietnam. She’s navigated good political administrations and struggling ones, a thriving economy and want. Her eight decades of experience living in the US have shown her the best America has to offer and, unfortunately, the worst. But she never thought America would become a place of vitriol and despair.

So, she decided to do something about it.

Through a series of epic journeys across America, Marilyn discovered what she was after: practical advice on how to help our nation heal.

But she found something she wasn’t expecting . . . something far more powerful.

Marilyn found our common ground.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Authors

Robynne Elizabeth Miller is wife to an amazing Brit and mother to a glorious brood of adopted and biological kids. Her adventures have led her to over twenty-five countries, from Malta to Russia, and she’s lived about a quarter of her life in the English countryside. She currently makes her home in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, spending much of her time telling locals they don’t need to apologize for the rain.

With dozens of articles, essays, and blog posts to her credit, as well as eight books and collaborations on several more, she’s put her B.A. from Westmont College and her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Nonfiction & Fiction from Ashland University to good use She’s an experienced speaker, editor, and writing coach, and teaches regularly at conferences and writer’s workshops. She currently serves as President and Director of Leadership of Inspire Christian Writers and hosts The Art of Semi-Fiction podcast, where she explores every corner of the written word.

On quieter days, Robynne can be found meandering back roads with her family, cooking up some grand adventure with her friends, singing at the top of her lungs, or making bacon from scratch.

 Marilyn Siden is blessed with a wonderful family—four grown children, twelve beautiful, talented, Godly grandchildren, and an amazing husband.

 More from Robynne and Marilyn

Hello Dear Readers!

 Feeling a little discouraged about the state of our nation today? Convinced you have no hope of being part of the solution?

 Good news!

 Not only are you ABLE to be a part of helping to heal our nation, but you are both called AND equipped to do so, right where you are. No matter your skillset or resources, you can start being a light for Jesus right now. And that light, however small you perceive it to be, WILL shine in these dark times.

 Taking this journey at nearly 80 and crossing the country in search of practical solutions to start reversing the hatred and hurt blanketing our nation was challenging.

 But it was worth it, too.

 Not only is the book filled with stories of hope and encouragement, it’s filled with practical steps we can all take to start healing hurts, restoring our communities, building a safer future for our children, and bringing light back to our nation.

 Are you ready?

 We are standing on common ground!

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Marilyn and Robynne are giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

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

CLICK HERE

Rahab’s Courage ~ Naomi Craig

 

This is book one of the Yaweh's Series a Christian Historical Read.  This is the story of Rahab from the book of Joshua in the bible. She encounters so many trials and tribulations in her time, but she always kept faith that God and His word would keep her safe.  Her people shunned her, as it has been told that she was a harlot.  Will she find safety and a life that God will reward her for? Can she keep the faith and live with the people of Israel that will take her away from all the evil?

This book deals with prostitution, rape, and women being treated poorly, so I would recommend mature readers only for this book.  If your teen would like to read, I suggest the parents read first to be sure it is a fit for the teen to be reading.  This book has suspense and shows a way that women were treated in the new testament.  Good read that goes deeper into Rahab's 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 Book

 Book:  Rahab’s Courage

Author: Naomi Craig

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Release date: August 17, 2021

 A scarlet cord tethers one ruined woman to the salvation of mankind.

Harboring two fugitives in a city slated for destruction, Rahab has one small chance of escape. In exchange for their safety, she bargains for her own. Their agreement rewards her courage, and she flees Jericho and a life of prostitution for a new life among the people of Israel. Never again will she have to depend on anyone—especially men.

Except Salmah won’t take the hint.

High ranking soldier and leader of the tribe of Judah, Salmah is determined not to repeat his parents’ mistakes. He will keep the Lord’s commandments. Rahab’s growing faith fits right in with phase one of his plans: find a wife who loves the Lord and settle down in the new land.

Rahab finds shelter and meaning in the Lord’s ways until her past comes back to haunt her. As her new faith is put to test, she finds herself alone. Isn’t that what she’d always wanted?

With her courage waning, only the Lord can turn Rahab’s life around again, but will He do it before she loses everyone and everything that really matters to her—to her heart?

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Naomi writes Historical Fiction set in Bible times.

She lives in a small town in the south-eastern mountains of Arizona
She is an avid reader, Pastor’s wife, and homeschool mom.

 More from Naomi

Matthew 1:4b-6a (NKJV)

Nahshon begot Salmon.  Salmon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth, Obed begot Jesse,  and Jesse begot David the king.

On the brink of war and conquering the Promised Land, The Israelites stand fierce and determined, ready to see God’s victory. This time they will not waiver.  This time, obedience will be their theme. But it wasn’t always that the Israelites stood with resolve as strong as Jericho’s impenetrable walls.

Rewind forty years. The Israelites have just been delivered from slavery in Egypt. 12 spies were sent into the land and brought back a good report. There were bountiful crops peace and giants.

Nahshon, as the leader of Judah (Numbers 2:3), should have been influential in his tribe’s decision to trust the Lord—especially since Caleb one of the two who trusted, was from Judah. Yet nobody believed. They all grumbled. So instead of what should have been a quick journey, it took forty years.

And the entire generation couldn’t enjoy the benefits of trusting God and His promise.

Enter Salmah.

He sees the penalty of his father’s disobedience. It shapes his life he adheres to the ways of the Lord. Plague after disobedience hardens his resolve. He will obey the laws of the Lord so it will go well with him in the new land.

So what is a man with this moral stature doing with a Canaanite? A harlot? Every sordid detail that makes up Rahab goes against his moral fiber.

But faith.

Faith that was spoken about all the way into the New Testament. Rahab steps out in sacrificial faith to a God she doesn’t yet know, for strangers who have no reason to trust her.

As such, the Lord honored her faith. As He does when you and I step out on that limb because we’ve felt that stirring in our soul.

Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen.

Not only did the Lord spread His mantle of protection over Rahab, He also saw fit to include her in the lineage of His Son, Jesus.

Rahab’s Courage is a love story. A story of stepping out in faith. Of changing expectations of yourself and others. Of how the Lord can redeem and use any who are willing to put off the old and become that new creation.

***The scripture is clear that Rahab is a harlot. Due to the nature of this life, this story addresses prostitution, rape, and post traumatic stress. Please use caution with younger readers and if these subjects would act as a trigger for you. If Rahab’s Courage was a movie, it would have a rating of PG-13

Giveaway

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

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

CLICK HERE

Donkey Devos ~ Susan K. Stewart

 

 This is a very unique devotional book that is all about Susan and her special donkey's.  Each story in the book is 2 or 3 pages long and can be read within 5 to 10 minutes a day.  Susan tells of a story and how it relates to God's word from bible verses and gives questions for you to think over.  Each chapter / devotion tells a donkey incident and how they touched Susan and the relationship to the bible.  

I enjoyed this book, is not your regular devotional book.  Each chapter is numbered, not dated, you can read each day, from cover to cover, or just pick up and read any story in the book and get so much love for donkey's and God's word.  It has a story, questions to ponder and then the bible verse that relates to the chapter.  Great book you could use for a small group reading, bible study group or a few friends getting together, or by yourself.

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:  Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks

Author: Susan K. Stewart

Genre: Devotional

Release date: July 15, 2021

 Did you know the Bible mentions only two talking animals? Each of these creatures had a different message. The first to speak out was the serpent. This character certainly wasn’t a model. If God was using this snake for a test drive, I can see why he kept the mouths of the other animals closed. This snake in the grass spoke words meant for evil. Later God allowed another animal to speak—the lowly donkey. The beast of burden. This time the animal had words of wisdom.

Susan K. Stewart expected dogs, cats, and the occasional goldfish would be all the pets she’d need—until the day Susan met donkeys at a rescue center. A few years after that fateful visit, three donkeys became part of the Stewart family. Susan soon learned these humble creatures are still messengers of wisdom.

Donkey Devos is a collection of forty pearls Susan has learned from spending time learning about her equine friends and chatting with them. She uses her experiences, donkey facts, and Biblical donkey details to share the truths God has taught. The whole family will delight in the donkey tales with a message from God.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Susan K. Stewart didn’t expect to become a “donkey whisper,” as some of her neighbors say. One day God put her in a herd of donkeys, and it was love at first bray. Susan and her husband Bob live in Central Texas with their three dogs, three cats, numerous chickens, and inspiring donkeys. They have three children and six outstanding grandchildren. Susan’s passion is to inspire readers with practical, real-world solutions and a few donkey stories.

 More from Susan

I like to say, “I can’t not write.” I’m not even sure what event or who encouraged me to follow this pursuit. I do know my dream was to be a news reporter by day and a ballet dancer at night. God has given me the gift of teaching. I teach through written words.

Lois Lane was my inspiration. Seriously, in my teens I envisioned myself as a news reporter chasing after breaking stories around the world. I met my Superman, and Lois retired. But I began my own writing career with the help of friends and mentors.

Cecil Murphey has been a valued mentor and friend for nearly twenty years. His no-nonsense approach to helping this wanna-be writer pushed me forward to being able to call myself an author. And, Kathy Ide showed me I could be an editor. Her example and friendship have improved my writing as well

I grew up in a traveling family. (I went to fourteen different schools before graduating high school.) Of all the places my family lived, a rural ranch was not one of them. Pet donkeys and surly chickens were not part of my life experience or my bucket list.

Then it happened. I met a donkey nose-to-muzzle and a special bond was created. After my first visit to the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, I wanted donkey pets. Alas, our property was too small to meet the adoption requirements. When we made the move from California to Texas, donkeys soon became a part of the small ranch.

Caring for the donkeys turned into a friendship. Like all friends, my donkeys and I have had wonderful experiences. These goings-on became the basis for the stories in Donkey Devos: Listen When God Speaks.

I’ve written four books including the award-winning Formatting e-Books for Writers. When I’m not walking and conversing with my donkeys, I tend a vegetable garden, track family history, and read everything from the great American novel to the back of cereal boxes.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Susan 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

Fremont's Promise ~ Kathryn Spurgeon

 

This book is a Christian Historical true story read.  The book takes place in a very difficult time during the depression of 1939 through the 1940's era.  Fremont wants to take care of Sibyl and get her out from the bad situations she has been facing, he wants to take her away from it all.  Sibyl dreams that she will be in a better place and be able to share it with Freemont, can she take that leap of faith and leave with him?  When Sibyl is faced with family situations out of her control, will she do what she wants or do what is best for her family?  Will Freemont be able to understand?  Can these two survive this very difficult time in life and be able to have a future together?

If you want to read a true story about the past and how hard things were for families and how you had to keep your faith no matter what then this is the book you will want to read.  It makes you think way after you are finished about how easy life is now, even though you think you are going through a difficult situation.  Good thinking 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:  Fremont’s Promise

Author: Kathryn Spurgeon

Genre: Historical

Release date: March 16, 2021

 Every time Sibyl visits her mother, she’s criticized, shamed, and leaves in tears. The only thing that can calm her is Fremont’s assurance to move them to a place they can share their faith more freely. While her emotions bounce from frustration to despair, she holds on to the belief that God can help her family.

Fremont, a former hobo, promises to find  a better paying job and spirit his wife away from this unstable family. But only God can work that miracle.

If you love family sagas and drama based on true stories, you will love this book. The 1930s and 40s were a time of difficulty but hope carried them through.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Kathryn Spurgeon writes FAITH STORIES FROM THE PAST or Christian historical novels with a focus on 1930s America using true events and actual locations. Award winning author, she won Illumination Award, She studied creative writing at the University of Central Oklahoma and has spoken at many women’s conferences around the world. She grew up on a farm in Oklahoma before moving to South Korea and adopting two daughters. Kathryn and her husband, Bill, have six children and thirteen grandchildren.

 More from Kathryn

The tumultuous times of the 1930s and 40s are amazingly similar to the difficulties we face today. Read how God guided this prominent family toward greater strength and dependence on him. Based on a true story, this compelling novel is taken from handwritten biographies, personal interviews, and family research.

Giveaway

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

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

CLICK HERE

Trail of Forgiveness ~ Cheri Swalwell

 

This is book 3 of the Redemption of Green Pines Series a Christian Romance book.  When Holly and Jace find themselves in a relationship, after both having bad experiences in the past, little do they think what will really be the issue.  When they find that rumors are being spread about them and what is truth, they are not sure what to do.  Can someone be so evil to sabotage their relationship, but also include the church to make sure people are mislead?  Will the faith of the church be able to find the truth?

This book is good for teens and older to read, as it is a book that could happen in today's world.  It is about faith, family, truth and forgiveness.  It is a story that keeps you reading until the end because you just need to find out what is going to happen and why all of this is happening. It is book 3 of the series, however it 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:  Trail to Forgiveness

Author: Cheri Swalwell

Genre: Women’s Contemporary Christian Fiction

Release date: March 9, 2021

Even though he knew most of the pictures and accusations were planted, and false, people’s perceptions of what happened is what would decide Jace’s fate, not the facts themselves.

When it comes to dating, Holly has never settled…and she’s not going to start now with something as important as marriage. Jace lives with the weight of failing his wife, Simone, and refuses to repeat history. So, when Holly and Jace tentatively move toward a dating relationship, they know it won’t be as easy the second time around.

Rumors and lies about an affair spread in the church which could jeopardize Jace’s career and their reputations. In the midst of their own problems, they discover an even bigger threat trying to destroy the youth group.

What happens when evil is allowed to spread unchecked? It takes the skills of an undercover cop to reveal the sinister plot seeking to gain control of the entire church.

Will Holly and Jace find God’s trail to forgiveness…or are some actions deemed unforgiveable?

If you like wholesome fiction with a faith-filled message, step out with Trail to Forgiveness, Book 3 of The Redemption of Green Pines series today…to find out if Jace’s career and their love can survive.

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Cheri Swalwell is a Christ follower who thoroughly enjoys her calling to be a wife, mother, writer and speaker, in that order. Cheri loves to encourage people through her fiction series and many nonfiction books including devotionals, Bible studies, and compilation books. For a full list of books visit www.cheriswalwell.com. If you want to sign up to her newsletter to stay updated on all the latest news, you will also receive a free gift as her way of saying thanks for joining! To read one of her many articles on life from a Christian perspective, visit her blog at www.cheriswalwell.com. She loves to interact with her readers, so send her an email at clSwalwell99@gmail.com. You can “like” her on Facebook as well here or join Heart Speaks with Cheri Swalwell, a private Facebook group where we encourage each other and share life together.

 More from Cheri

Journey Back Home, Book 2 in The Redemption of Green Pines, was supposed to be a stand alone book. When I finished writing it, I realized there was so much more to the community of Green Pines, and also so much more to Holly. Who was Holly? Why was she able to help Jace through his grief? What brought her to Green Pines?

As a result, I wrote a prequel to Journey Back Home, sharing with readers Holly’s story which became Book 1, Adventure’s Invitation. That book shares the backstory of Holly and her family and I highly recommend reading it. It will make Trail to Forgiveness, Book 3 in The Redemption of Green Pines, that much more meaningful when you get to spend more time with Holly’s family!

Trail to Forgiveness picks up literally two hours after Journey Back Home ends. God unfolded the storyline as I was writing it. While Jace and Holly are busy dealing with false rumors and a church that wants to fire him, Noah and his friends are dealing with members of the youth group who are out to get them too. Thankfully, though, Officer Dave, now a new believer, sticks around and helps Jace and Paul uncover what’s happening. It’s not what you think … but worse!

Also in Trail to Forgiveness, we get to discover more about the foursome who works for Holly, former youth group members of Jace: Addie, her best friend Wynn, Zane and his sidekick Owen. Not only are there secrets circulating in the youth group, but Wynn has some strong secrets of her own.

Pre-order Book 4, Road to Freedom, to discover what secrets Wynn’s been hiding from Holly, her mentor, as well as her friends. Is Zane hiding something from Wynn also?

There is so much more to discover about the community of Green Pines. I hope you enjoy getting to know them as much as I do!

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Cheri is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Amazon gift card!!

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

CLICK HERE