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“I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.”- Psalm 138:2

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

A Thieving At Carlton House ~ Erica Vetsch

 This is a Christian Historical Romance and book one of the Cloak and Dagger series.  When Philippa has changed her life around and is giving back to women that she once was a part of, she never dreamed what would happen.  She is determined to start a school for women that are in dire need for help.  She starts the school, however, comes in contact with Sir Bertrand Thorndike, who has a different plan for her future, and the adventure begins.  They set out to find the stolen crown jewels, making Philippa an agent to get information.  When two of the women that Philippa is helping become suspects, Bertie and her set out to find the real crooks.  What does all this mean for Philippa, is this God's plan?  Is there more to her meeting Bertie?

If  you like a good mystery, page turning story, then read this book.  It was an enjoying afternoon read, that I couldn't put down.  Each time I was about to stop, I just wanted to know more.  If you like a good, clean, mysterious read then pick up this book..... I can't wait to read book two.........

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. 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.

Friday, June 28, 2024

Her Part to Play ~ Jenny Erlingsson

This book is a Christian Romance Fiction book.  When Adanne is takes on a job for extra money as a make-up artist for a movie being filmed in her small Alabama town.  She never expected what it was going to be like..... she finds that its for the actor that fired her.  John is an actor that has found God and is making his faith priority.  As he starts to rebuild his career and new found life, he is taken by surprise just who will be filling in for his regular make-up artist. Will John be able to work with Adanne and how does his new found faith play in this?  Will Adanne be able to work and keep her feelings from showing?  Will they both be able to do what is right?

If you want to read a book that is a light romance and entertaining read.  This book is a good summer afternoon read.  I enjoyed the story line and the characters were likeable.  If you are a fan of Hallmark movies then you will enjoy this book.  This is the first book I have read from this author and I would read others from her. 

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

Hidden in the Night ~ Elizabeth Goddard

This book is book 3 of the Missing in Alaska series a Christian Mystery Romance.  Ivy, a former special agent and now rare-book collector, sets out to Alaska for to get an unpublished manuscript, only to find it missing.  She is determined to find this script, only she finds a girl that needs her help.  She can't turn her back on this girl.  Nolan, Alaska State Trooper, is on the case and Ivy joins forces with him to save this missing girl.  Can they stay safe and bring justice to this girl?  What happened to the script and where does this take Ivy?  Can Nolan keep Ivy in his life? Does he want more than friends?

If you like a suspense read, pick up this book.  It is book 3 of the series, but can be read as a stand alone.  It is a page turner with drama that tugs at your heart.  You can't help cheering for Ivy and her adventure.  I enjoyed reading this mystery as it had twist and turns until the end.  

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

 


Sunday, June 16, 2024

Unforgiven ~ Shelley Shepard Gray

This book one of the Rumors in Ross County series, an Amish Romance/Mystery read.  When Seth, an ex-con and worked in the Amish community for three years,  does odd jobs and assists people that need it.  He has helped Tabitha for those years, even if they have never met face to face.  Tabitha has been shunned from the Amish community because she divorced her abusive husband.  When Seth knows she is watching him, he starts to reach out to her by a simple note.  Tabitha starts to find gifts and wonders if they are from her abusive ex-husband.  Who is leaving the gifts?  Can Seth overcome Tabitha to trust him?  Will they each find happiness or is something evil about to happen?

If you are fan of Shelley and Amish books, you will love this one.  It is a good mystery that will keep you reading until you finish, as you will want to find out if Seth and Tabitha can overcome their past.  I loved the start of this series and can't wait for book 2. 

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

The Road Before Us ~ Janine Rosche

This book is a Women's Contemporary Christian Fiction book, that takes you along Route 66 and the a journey back into time of 1956.  Jade, a well know financial adviser looses her career integrity, due to her coworker stealing millions from a ponzi scheme.  She sets out to help Benny a starlet from the past, get her love story told of her marriage and romance of 70 years before.  Her foster son, Bridger is along to document the trip.  They learn more from the travels, then they ever expected.  The past can haunt you, make you smile and give you meaning, purpose and forgiveness. Can they all relive the past and get freedom and peace from their past?  

If you want a book that will keep you turning pages until the end, and then when you finish make you still think about it.... this is the book for you.  This book tackles alot of issues : kidnapping, stealing, trust, assaults', dementia and so much more.  It is a book that is packed with action, hope, faith and redemption.  This is the first book I have read from this author and very glad I did.  It was a great adventure read. 

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


 

Wednesday, May 1, 2024

The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple ~ Joanna Davidson Politano

 This book is a Historical Christian Romance Read, that is about a detective and actress whimsical Edwardian English Historical Romance.  This takes place in 1903, England, Peter O'Driscoll is a private detective looking for long lost Sapphire and ends up finding it around the neck of an aspiring silent actress.  Lily Temple is the actress that is wearing the jewel he is searching for.  He decides to get closer to her and asks for her help, only he gets more than what he thought.  What is the story behind this jewel?  Will the mystery be solved?  Is there more to Lily's past?  

I would recommend this if you enjoy a slow paced book, a little mystery, and fairy tales.  It is a good story that keeps you interested.  If you are looking for intense drama, then this is not the book for you.  If you want to read a story that flows and is so paced with a mystery.... try this book.  I enjoyed reading the story.  

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

Sandcastle Inn ~ Irene Hannon

This is a Christian Romance read and Book 10 in the A Hope Harbor series.   Vienna losses her job and goes back to Oregon to be with her mother and figure out what she is going to do next on her career path.  Matt, a veterinarian, forced to take time off, comes to town and help his sister with a run down B&B.  When the two meet, they never realized what would bring them together.  They decide to work together and get the B&B up to par.  When they realize that it is more work than they can do together, they hire a man that has lost everything.  Can these three people get the B&B ready in time for the season?  Why did these three come together?  What is the future for all of these people?  Do they get their careers back on track and deal with the past or is it forgiveness, new careers and a fresh start? 

I would recommend this book to anyone that wants a book about friendship, goals and forgiveness. It is book 10 of the series, however can be read as a stand alone. I have read a few of the other books in this series and didn't have any problem reading this one.  If you like Irene Hannon, you will not be disappointed.  If you haven't read one of her books, start now... you will be glad you did.  This would be a great summer read for anyone.  Taking vacation, take this book with you for relaxation and a great read that takes you away from the world for a few hours. 

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

Monday, March 25, 2024

Just for the Summer ~ Melody Carlson

This is a Christian Contemporary Light Romance read.  Ginny is the manager of a very upscale hotel, with a very demanding boss.  She has had enough and decides to do something about it.  She finds an ad about job swapping and gets an inquiry from Jaqueline.   Jaqueline is pristine and not happy to be manager of her grandfathers fishing lodge.  She writes to Ginny and they make a contract to job swap for two months.  Both ladies are ready for a change and challenge, but will they both be surprised at what each job details?  After a few weeks, one is ready to stay at there new job and the other wants to stay, however, seems overwhelmed and not knowing what to do.  

I would recommend this to anyone's fun summer reading list.  This is a great book to just spend a relaxing afternoon reading.  I didn't want to put it down and the ending had me mad.... then it twist and I was ok with the ending... you will have to read to know what I am talking about.  I love Melody Carlson books and this one is definitely another keeper to my collection.  LOVED THIS STORY!!! FUN READ!!

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

Friday, February 23, 2024

The Irish Matchmaker ~ Jennifer Deibel

This is a historical romantic read that takes place in the 1900's in Ireland.  This story is based on a matchmaking festival that Catriona and Lord Osbornes' son,  Andrew are attending.  When Andrew is not happy with his matchmaker, he decides to go back to the festival.  Catriona has her eyes on  Andrew and not only wants to help him find his match, she thinks she is the match. When  cattle farmer Donal, a single father also attends the festival to appease his daughter.  He finds that is matchmaker is Catriona and how she has eyes for Andrew.  What is the future for these people?  Will Catriona find love where she thinks?  What is the future for Catriona, Andrew and Donal?

I would recommend this book if you like read a romance with a historic Irish background.  It is a fun read that keeps you wondering, who Catriona is going to choose and how will the men handle the situation.  This is a great, relaxing afternoon read, full of fun and light romance.  
I have read other books from this author and have enjoyed all of them.

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


Wednesday, February 7, 2024

The Divine Proverb of Streusel ~ Sara Brunsvold

This book is a Women's Contemporary Christian read.  This book takes place in Missouri on a small farm and is  the story of  Nikki Warner.  Nikki has a lot to deal with, her parents divorce and troubles with her boyfriend, she decides to go to the farm for the summer and think things over.   While at the farm she finds her grandmother's German recipe book that incorporates proverbs that accompany  the recipe.  What does this all mean to Nikki and her future?  What does all her grandmothers wisdom mean for her?  Will this book change Nikki?

If you want a book that will keep you reading from the beginning until the last page, this is the book.  It is a book that is about faith, family, wisdom and love.  This is one of those reads that you can't stop thinking about and has more meaning than just a story about Nikki's summer on the farm.  This is the first book that I have read from this author and plan to read more.  This is a great book for a book club or to share with friends.  Loved this book and the story meanings. 

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


Tuesday, December 19, 2023

The Warsaw Sisters ~ Amanda Barratt

 This book is a Historical, Christian, World War II read.  It takes place during the 1930's and the war in Warsaw during the German invasion.  When the two sisters, Antonina and Helena are having to see their father going to war to protect their country, their lives will change forever.  Antonina finds herself working with a network of women to shelter Jewish children and keep them safe.  Helena makes the decision to become part of the secret army that will fight to keep her country safe. They are forced apart, the family and friends that once surrounded them are gone and now the sisters are on their own journeys.  Will they be able to survive and come close again?  Will they both survive this war?  Will they be reunited?  What will the future be for them?

I would recommend this book to those that like historical reads.  It is a book that tugs at your heart and keeps you up at night reading.  The two sisters are strong women with separate goals, but still love each other. This is an emotional read that shows history and how it effected all people.  I was touched at this book and if you love history and stories about courage, bravery, sisterhood and love for family.. READ THIS!

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


Her Secret Hope ~ Shelley Shepard Gray

 

This is book 3 of the A Season in Pinecraft series, an Amish Christian Romance book. It is the story of Lily and Eddie, when two different people meet and find love.  Lily is Amish and making Pinecraft, Florida her new home and a fresh start on life.  She doesn't now what to expect, but is excited for the journey.  She finds a place to stay, new friends and new job.  Everything is going as she expects until she meets Eddie.  Eddie is from Ohio and just visiting, Lily is heartbroken that he is going to be leaving.  Eddie is going back close to her hometown that she just left.  She is torn between her heart and the past.  Eddie is fond of her, but has a life in Ohio not in Florida.  Will they be able to keep their love?  What choice will they make, stay together? Go back to Ohio?  Stay in Florida?  What is their future?

I would recommend this to any fan of the author and Amish reads.  This is a great story that is book 3 of the series, however, can be read as a stand alone.  Shelley Shepard Gray is always keeping her readers happy and content.  This is another favorite of mine. Great Read!!

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

Friday, September 15, 2023

Countdown ~ Lynette Eason

This is book 4 of the Extreme Measures series, a Christian Suspense Mystery book.  Raina has been running from a stalker all her life, she has changed her name, moved and stayed hidden from her past.... until now the stalker has found her.  She is now back in danger and finds when US Marshal Vincent Corelli has been shot at because of her, what will she do?  Vincent feels he has no other choice than to protect her, even if it means he loses his job.  They come together and go after the stalker.  Will Raina be safe and final get her life back?  Will they be able to track and detain the stalker?  

I would recommend this book if you want to read a drama, suspense, and twist and turn read, this is the one for you.  It is book 4 and the last one of the extreme measures series, however, it can be read as a stand alone... but I suggest you read all 4 of this series.... they are all very good for drama and keeping you in suspense until the very last page. I always enjoy this author. 

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

This is Where it Ends ~ Cindy K. Sproles

This is a Christian Historical Read that takes place during the 1900's in Kentucky mountains.  This is the Minerva's story of how all her life she has kept her husbands secret and she just may reveal it now at 94 and close to the end of  life.  She has always kept the box her husband gave her and never opened it as he instructed her to do.  When a reporter comes to visit and tries to find her story that he can report on, will she tell the secret and open the box?  Or will she keep the secret and never know what is in the box? 

I recommend this to anyone that love to read a mystery and story about one women and how she dealt with a secret all her life, could you be able to hold onto this mystery?  I felt myself so into reading her story and wanting to know the secret that I couldn't put the book down.  If you want a great read, pick up this book, but make sure you have hours to read from cover to cover.  You won't be able to put down.

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

Letters from my sister ~ Valerie Fraser Luesse

This book is a Christian Historical Fiction that takes you back into time.  This is the story of two sisters Callie and Emmy and the meaning of family.  Life seems good for the sisters, they are opposites, however, one ready to marry, the other ready to do her own thing.  When their worlds are shaken up by a visit from Lily, the granddaughter of the family housekeeper, trouble seems to loom over them.    When tragedy strikes the sisters forcing them to be separated and they start to write letters that lead them to piece their lives back together.  Can they find the truth?  Will they be able join each other again?  What is the mystery? 

I would recommend this book to those that enjoy history and a page turning story.  This book will keep your attention until the end.  The story deals with family issues and the heartaches that happen in life.  This was the first book I read from this author and look forward to reading other books from her.  I really enjoyed this book it was very heartfelt that covered love, trust, faith, family and so much more!

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

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

The All American ~ Susie Finkbeiner

 This book is a Christian Historical Fiction that takes place in 1952 during the great depression era. It is the story of Bertha Harding and her dreams of baseball.  She wants to be a part of the American Baseball League, not what women during this time are supposed to be doing.  When her family is accused of be part of the Communist Party, it forces them to change their lives.  Bertha is so determined that she stays strong and true to her love of baseball.  Will she be able to fill her American dream?  Will her family survive being the center of rumors and non-true accusations?  

If you like to read a book that will have you turning the pages then this is the book for you.  It deals with society issues and how one women decides to put aside what everyone is saying.  I am not a hard fan of baseball, however, I loved this book.  If you love reading a book that is heartfelt, about not giving up, and family values, then read this book.

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

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Her Only Wish ~ Shelley Shepard Gray

This is book 2 of the A Season in Pinecraft series, an Amish Christian read.  Betsy is young and ready to see the world, she sets out to accomplish her bucket list in Pinecraft, Florida.   She starts out her journey of taking golf lessons and meets August.  They become friends and start to hang out together.  August knows what it feels like to be sheltered in life and follow rules, his parents are missionaries and very protective of him. Betsy meets new friends and is getting close to August, could there be more?  When things start to happen unexpectedly, how does this effect Betsy and her plan to experience new things in life? 

I would recommend this book if you are a fan of Amish, if you want a good relaxing summer afternoon read and if you just enjoy a book that will tug at your heart.  This book deals with everyday life issues that each of us may struggle with, society, rules, and trying to please family.  This is book 2 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 Revell Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Forever Yours ~ Annee Jones


 This is a Christian romance book that is part of the clean slate series.  When Callie decides to go to Florida and help her aunt with a matchmaking conference being held at her bed and breakfast.   Callie gets the chance to be a part of the convention and isn't quite sure what to expect. Jackson was not looking to date, nor expecting to be a part of this event, however, his brother signed him up.  He decides to be a good sport about it and see what this is all about.  Will Callie and Jackson meet and be a match?  What does Callie want from life?  Is Jackson ready for a relationship?  Could they have a future as a couple?

If you like a sweet heartfelt read, then this is the book for you.  It is a fun read that has alot of page turning events.  It is part of a collection but can be read as a stand alone.  This was the first book I read from this author and was glad that I did.  


About the Book

Book: Forever Yours

Author: Annee Jones

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: January 13, 2023

He’s there on a whim. She’s there to help her aunt. They’re both missing something. Can it be each other?

“Find your Perfect Match this summer at the seaside…” The Forever Yours matchmaking agency is hosting a vacation package week in Seaview, Florida. Taking a break from her busy but unrewarding life in Chicago, Callie Winthrop has come to town to find respite at her beloved Aunt Fran’s bed and breakfast.

When the CEO of Forever Yours – who just happens to be staying at the inn for the event – offers Callie the opportunity to attend the activities and meet the most eligible bachelors in the country, how can she say no?

Jackson Thorne, a successful Tampa contractor, can’t believe the nerve of his brother, who actually thought it was a good idea to sign him up for a matchmaking vacation this summer. Jackson acknowledges, however, that he has been avoiding commitment ever since his last relationship ended in tragedy. Hence it may actually be good for him to start dating again – much as he would hate to admit it. Maybe there’s even a chance he could meet the woman of his dreams this summer?

Warm your heart by reading this sweet clean romance about starting over today! Bonus section with recipes included!

 Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Annee Jones is an international bestselling author of romance, fantasy, and mystery. She is passionate about writing stories where dreams come true and love wins!

Professionally, Annee works as a disability counselor where she is honored to help her clients navigate through complex medical and legal systems while rediscovering their wholeness in Spirit.

Subscribe to Annee’s newsletter to stay up to date on new releases, sneak peeks, author parties, and exclusive giveaways: https://www.anneejones.com/newsletter

 More from Annee

Bonus recipes are included!

This book features a rescue puppy named Peanut Butter!

You will find both recipes and pets in nearly all of my books!  😊

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Annee is giving away the grand prize package of an opportunity to name a character in a future book and a copy of the eBook!!

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

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Super Doople ~ k.a. cummins

 This is a children's picture book about learning to listen and how it can benefit you when you do listen. The story is based on the children rhyme, humpty dumpty, only this has a twist.  Doople wants to fly, he would climb and walls and trees to be able to fly.  But when he is told not to do that because he will get hurt, he doesn't listen...... he ends up cracked and having to go to the doctor and scientist to put him back together.... when something strange happens, he ends up listening to what is being told to him and then he gets more than he thought he could...... could listening be a virtue in life that will get you what you need and want?

I would recommend this book to those that have little children and want a picture book that has a lesson to be learned when reading.  It is a cute story and is based on humpty dumpty.   It was fun and had story questions at the end of the book to discuss with the readers.  

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: Super Doople

Author:K.A. Cummins

Genre:Picture Book

Release date: May 4, 2023

You’ve heard the legend of Humpty Dumpty, but do you know the legend of Super Doople? He’s faster than a chicken. He flies higher than an ostrich. No fall can break his shell! And he was once Little Doople, a small and fragile egg like all the other dooples, until his bad habit of not listening caught up to him.

Engaging text with expressive illustrations, Super Doople is a lighthearted tale about resilience and learning to listen. This funny picture book for ages 3-8 is perfect for reading aloud in the classroom or at home.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

K.A. Cummins is an author and an artist. She explores storytelling in a variety of mediums, blending the wonders of science with the possibilities of what if. When not crafting stories, Cummins loves spending time with her family, collecting fun socks, and venturing outside her comfort zone to try new things—at least once!

Connect with her through her website at https://authorkacummins.com, where you can sign up for emails about upcoming releases.

 More from K.A. Cummins

“Super Doople” started with a comic sketch and the idea of what if a scientist put Humpty Dumpty back together again? At first, it was more for fun and to explore creating comics. In fact, in the first version, he bounced like a ball when he hit the ground.

 But the idea stuck! I continued to gravitate back to it, enjoying the exploration of telling a story with words and drawings. Many sketches and several versions later, the character became Little Doople, a hopeful and determined boy with a dream of flying who, through a series of events, transforms into Super Doople.

 It’s been so much fun working with Little Doople, especially having our youngest son engaged with the story. Our youngest is sixteen now and has a talented eye for design. He’s one of the first people I ask for art critiques (the other being my husband). He even helped me come up with the name doople, for both the character and the egg-people in the story. We brainstormed in the car on a two-hour drive home.

 The joy of creating this story, and from the story itself, has become its own source of inspiration. I haven’t stopped brainstorming more story ideas for Little Doople. I’ve even started plotting some of them, but those are under wraps for now.

 However, being a homeschool mom and former educator in other forms, I wanted to share a free educational resource to go along with “Super Doople.” So I’ve put together a few science egg-periments, activities, and coloring pages suitable for younger children that’s available for FREE on my TpT store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Doople-Science-Hands-on-Learning-Activities-9145443.

 Hope you and your children enjoy reading “Super Doople.”

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, K.A. is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

CLICK HERE 

Sunday, May 14, 2023

Lilac Cottage ~ Carrie Fancett Pagels

This is book 2 of the Mackinac Cottages Series, a light romance historical read.  When  Rachel decides to go to visit her passed on grandmothers cottage on Mackinac Island after losing her job and needs a new start.  Jack is remodeling the cottage and also not a fan of Rachel's.  When they find come together, they find mysteries in the house.  What does the cottage hold?  Will they be able to work together, is their more to the relationship?  Who holds the information to solve the past?

I would recommend this book to anyone that likes a good mystery that keeps you turning the pages.  Many characters in this fast pace read that makes you wonder how it will end and what the mystery is all about.  It is book 2 of 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. 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: Lilac Cottage

Author: Carrie Fancett Pagels

Genre: Historical Romance, Christian Fiction

Release date: April 12, 2023

Inspirational Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Award-winning Bestselling Author Carrie Fancett Pagels

Lilac Cottage – set on Mackinac Island, Book 2 Mackinac Cottages Series

Out of options, after losing her job and apartment, Rachel Dunmara “camps out” at her deceased Grandmother’s cottage on Mackinac Island. Next door, her childhood nemesis, Jack Welling, is overseeing his family’s remodeling of their home on the West Bluff. When Rachel’s new boss, at a local coffee shop, pushes her to work as Jack’s assistant, for her second job, can they mend their rift?

Kareen Parker, widowed in the past year, returns to the island to share long-held information with her son and to transition ownership of her resort to her son. Her grandson befriends Rachel, who was banned by her family from associating with the Parkers.

After a summer full of secrets that are finally revealed, can three families be healed?

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 About the Author

Carrie Fancett Pagels is the award-winning author and bestselling author of over twenty Christian fiction books. Twenty-five years as a psychologist didn’t “cure” her overactive imagination! Raised in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula, you’ll find her most summers at the Straits of Mackinac—where many of her stories are set.

 More from Carrie

Why I Wrote Lilac Cottage

I had felt the Lord nudging me to write a sequel to my first-ever Women’s Fiction, Butterfly Cottage (after writing 20+ Historical Romances in Christian Fiction). I travel up to the Straits of Mackinac each summer to do book signings, library visits, and to see family and friends. At several of my book signings at the Island Bookstore, on Mackinac Island, I had readers ask if I had a sequel planned for Butterfly Cottage. I met a lovely young reader at one of the signings, who worked at Lucky Bean, my fave coffee shop in the world and it is on the island. Rachel asked me about plans for the next book and I thought – what if I had a young heroine who worked at Lucky Bean for the summer? Ya know, most authors stories start with the what if. So, I also tossed around the notion of what if Rachel was actually camping out in one of the mansions, called “cottages”, up on West Bluff? That spawned my plot thoughts.

 When I work, I percolate an idea. I also will not pursue writing a story unless God’s hand is on it. So, I first submitted my will to His. I got the go ahead. I also got a lot of other stuff: Norovirus, Covid, a root canal and crown, a bleed on an optic nerve, and also what I thought might be a heart attack but thankfully it was only my Rheumatoid Arthritis, oh and did I mention recurrent shingles? Yup—all that. So, I figure there must be a reason this book needs to be written for me to have confronted such opposition from the enemy.

 This is my very first novel where the main characters are all saved and are all newbies as far as being refreshed in their faith. At my church, one of the pastors preached about how new Christians are so on fire for the Lord and how they are often different from those of us who have been saved for a long time. I wanted to have that reflected in this novel.

 I know people have strong feelings about the pandemic. I wanted to make sure I had written something that included some reality of what the winding down was like in 2022, which is when the story is set. My father was born in 1918 during the Spanish Flu pandemic and I always felt that authors from that time didn’t include enough references to how this affected people. I didn’t dwell on Covid in this novel, but I did touch on it in I hope realistic ways, such as shortages of workers.

 Whew! One other reason I wrote some of the characters in this book was to give one of my continuing characters, Mrs. Hampy Parker, some redemption. She’s been a Co-dependent in two of my books (Butterfly Cottage and Behind Love’s Wall) and it was time, since she’s now in her early 80’s, for her to get free from that. I enjoyed the new start her character got and it was inspired by one of my friend’s real life stories.

 Thank you for being part of the tour!!! And may God bless and keep you!

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carrie is giving away the grand prize package of $70 Amazon Gift Card, a copy of Lilac Cottage, and a copy of Butterfly Cottage!!

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

CLICK HERE