Blog Archives

Imperfect Justice

12/15/2017

"Imperfect Justice"
by Cara Putman

THE POLICE SAY THE WOMAN WAS A MURDERER. EMILIE WESLEY KNOWS THEY CAN’T BE TALKING ABOUT HER CLIENT . . . CAN THEY?
To the world it seems obvious: Kaylene Adams killed her daughter and then was shot by police. Attorney Emilie Wesley knows a different story: Kaylene would never hurt anyone and was looking for a way out of a controlling, abusive relationship. Her death shakes Emilie’s belief that she can make a difference for women in violent marriages. Self-doubt plagues her as she struggles to continue her work in the wake of the tragedy.
Reid Billings thought he knew his sister—right up until he learned how she died. He discovers a letter from Kaylene begging him to fight for custody of her daughters if anything should happen to her. No attorney in her right mind would support an uncle instead of the father in a custody case, but Kaylene’s letter claims Emilie Wesley will help him.
Thrown together in a race to save Kaylene’s surviving daughter, Emily and Reid pursue the constantly evasive truth. If they can hang on to hope together, can they save a young girl—and find a future for themselves in the process?
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Hold on to your seat belts, because this story is going to take you on a very bumpy but exciting ride. From the very start of the book, you will be thrown into a most intriguing mystery. Throw in a hint of romance and a dash of danger and what you have is a very interesting book. There are several different arcs in this story, so at times you may feel lost or confused, but by the end of the book everything will come together rather nicely. What I did not like about the book was the use of different versions of the Bible. I only read the King James Bible, so the others just weren't working for me.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

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12 Days at Bleakly Manor

12/15/2017

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Click here to purchase your copy.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Name of book: 12 Days at Bleakly Manor
Author: Michelle Griep
Genre: Historical Christmas
Release Date: September 1, 2017

"12 Days at Bleakly Manor"
by Michelle Griep

England, 1851: When Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home, she is hesitant yet feels compelled to attend—for if she remains the duration of the twelve-day celebration, she is promised a sum of five hundred pounds.
But is she walking into danger? It appears so, especially when she comes face to face with one of the other guests—her former fiancé, Benjamin Lane.
Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whoever stole his honor. When he’s given the chance to gain his freedom, he jumps at it—and is faced with the anger of the woman he stood up at the altar. Brought together under mysterious circumstances, Clara and Ben discover that what they’ve been striving for isn’t what ultimately matters.
What matters most is what Christmas is all about . . . love.
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This was book one in what promises to be a most interesting series, "Once Upon a Dickens Christmas". The story begins with an interesting and unique scenario in which a group of strangers are afforded large sums of money to spend 12 days at Bleakly Manor. Throughout those 12 days, there are many incidents and accidents that occur. Will they be able to last the entire 12 days, or will they all be scared off by the mysterious occurrences?

I really enjoyed this book. The characters are very eccentric which made the book fun to read, and I always love to read a good mystery. This story has a definite Clue game feeling to it, mixed in with a touch of Agatha Christie and Charles Dickens. So if you are a fan of any of these three or are just looking for a good clean mystery, then I would definitely recommend you read this book.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the author of both Regency and Colonial historical romances but also leaped the writerly fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. Keep up with her escapades at www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

GUEST POST FROM MICHELLE GRIEP

Go Green With Victorian Christmas Décor
Guest post by Michelle Griep
Walk in any store and you’ll be bombarded with displays of Christmas lights, gaudy ornaments, and inflatable life-size lawn characters. Commercialization at its worst. 150 years ago, that wasn’t the case. Yearning to decorate in a simpler fashion this year? Here are some ways you can bring a bit of the nineteenth century to your home this Christmas…
TREE DECORATIONS
Queen Elizabeth’s husband, the German Prince Albert, introduced the concept of a Christmas tree to Windsor castle. And you know, if it’s good enough for royalty its good enough for the common folk, right? So, the tradition spread. Generally trees were brought inside on Christmas Eve and taken down on January 6th. Trees were decorated with homemade ornaments from paper or fruits and nuts, strings of popcorn or cranberries, or hanging cookies such as gingerbread men from the branches. And remember, an authentic Victorian Christmas tree would’ve been small, like small enough to stand on a table.
GREENERY
Holly. Evergreens. Mistletoe. Most Victorians couldn’t afford store-bought decorations even were there a commercialized industry at the time (which there wasn’t). So the next best thing was to bring in some free/natural ornamentations. Greenery would’ve been perked up with berries, ribbons, dough ornaments or flowers. Pinecones were also scattered throughout the house.
WREATHS
“Writhen” is the root word where we get the word wreath from. It’s an old English word meaning “to writhe” or “to twist.” While the art of hanging wreaths goes back to Roman times, Victorians continued the tradition.
CANDLES
Candles were primarily placed in one of two spots during a Victorian Christmas. A single candle in a window was lit to show that the house was willing to provide food and shelter to travelers. Candles were also used on each and every branch of a Christmas tree, which meant a huge danger of fire. Usually a servant would stand nearby with a bucket of water just in case the thing started to burn.
DRESDENS
Dresdens are ornaments hung from the tree, from a window, or really hanging pretty much anywhere. These were handmade by cutting out shapes (usually animals or trains) and painted with metallic paint so that they looked like metal.
And that’s about it. No obnoxious Santas or reindeer inflated on the front lawn. No psycho Christmas lights strobing enough to give every passerby a seizure. Just plain and simple decor that made the home feel cozy.
And speaking of cozy, how about grabbing a blanket and a cup of hot tea and settling in for a holiday read that’s sure to put you in the Christmas spirit? My latest release is 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, a Victorian blend of Dickens and Agatha Christie.

BLOG STOPS

By The Book, December 14
Bukwurmzzz, December 14
Faery Tales Are Real, December 14
A Baker’s Perspective, December 15
A Reader’s Brain, December 15
Have A Wonderful Day, December 15
Texas Book-aholic, December 16
Carpe Diem, December 16
Cafinated Reads, December 16
Just the Write Escape, December 17
A Greater Yes, December 17
Remembrancy, December 17
Allofakindmom, December 18
History, Mystery & Faith, December 18
Simple Harvest Reads, December 18
amandainpa, December 19
Kat’s Corner Books, December 19
Mommynificent, December 19
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, December 20
Bookworm Mama, December 20
Vicky Sluiter, December 20
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, December 21
Christian Author, J.E.Grace, December 21
To Everything A Season, December 21
Reader’s Cozy Corner, December 22
The Fizzy Pop Collection, December 22
Reading Is My SuperPower, December 22 (Interview)
My Writer’s Life, December 23
Janices book reviews, December 23
For The Love of Books, December 23
Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 24
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 24
Red Headed Book Lady, December 25
Raining Butterfly Kisses, December 25
Bibliophile Reviews, December 26
Blogging With Carol,December 26
Mary Hake, December 26
Reflections From my Bookshelves, December 27

GIVEAWAY

To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away a grand prize of a $25 Barnes & Noble Gift card and a signed copy of 12 Days of Bleakly Manor!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c5b8

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The Hope of Christmas

12/12/2017

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Click here to purchase your copy.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Hope of Christmas
Author: Jodie Wolfe, Terri Wangard, Linda Shenton Matchett
Genre: Historical Christmas
Release Date: November 24, 2017

"The Hope of Christmas"
by Jodie Wolfe, Terri Wangard, and Linda Shenton Matchett

Picking a Bride for Paul
When Teddy Love’s neighbor and best friend breaks his leg, she pitches in to do whatever she can to help him on his farm. But when he enlists her aid in finding a wife, she comes to realize she has feelings for him.
Paul Baker follows his heart mother’s wishes by looking for a bride from the East who is refined and gentile, two qualities Teddy isn’t. When his potential bride arrives, he finds himself comparing her to Teddy. How can he go back and change things before he makes the biggest mistake of his life?

Typhoon PromptingA destroyer escort is among the smallest of warships, but the USS Tabberer has the heart of a giant. A typhoon threatens the US Fleet in the Pacific during World War II, days before Christmas. The men of the Tabberer stand tall as they rush to the aid of their fellow sailors. For Seaman Jerry Collier, the typhoon prompts a greater awareness of what he wants in life. First, though, they have to survive.
A Dr. in the House
Emma O’Sullivan is one of the first female doctors to enlist after President Franklin Roosevelt signs the order allowing women in the Army and Navy medical corps. Within weeks, Emma is assigned to England to set up a convalescent hospital, and she leaves behind everything that is familiar. When the handsome widower of the requisitioned property claims she’s incompetent and tries to get her transferred, she must prove to her superiors she’s more than capable. But she’s soon drawn to the good-looking, grieving owner. Will she have to choose between her job and her heart?
Archibald “Archie” Heron is the last survivor of the Heron dynasty, his two older brothers having been lost at Dunkirk and Trondheim and his parents in the Blitz. After his wife is killed in a bombing raid while visiting Brighton, he begins to feel like a modern-day Job. To add insult to injury, the British government requisitions his country estate, Heron Hall, for the U.S. Army to use as a hospital. The last straw is when the hospital administrator turns out to be a fiery, ginger-haired American woman. She’s got to go. Or does she?
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I love a good Christmas story filled with hope, joy, and love which is precisely what you will find in these three novellas. While they are not your typical cozy up to the fire type Christmas story, they are each wonderfully and beautifully written. From the wild west to the eye of a typhoon to an army hospital each of these stories will remind you that Christmas is not about material things, and will have you remembering the true meaning of Christmas. So if you are looking for a good Christmas story to read during the holidays, then this set of novellas is just what you are looking for.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Jodie Wolfe creates novels where hope and quirky meet. She’s been a semi-finalist and finalist in various writing contests and is a member of ACFW. When not writing she enjoys spending time with her husband in Pennsylvania, reading, walking, and being a Grammie. Learn more at www.jodiewolfe.com.

Terri Wangard grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, during the Lombardi Glory Years. Her first Girl Scout badge was the Writer. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in library science, she lives in Wisconsin. Classic BoatingMagazine, a family business since 1984, keeps her busy as an associate editor.

Linda Shenton Matchett is a journalist, blogger, author, and history geek. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry, Linda has lived in historical places most of her life-from Edison, New Jersey (named for the famed inventor of the light bulb) and Washington, DC to Wolfeboro, New Hampshire (reputed to be the oldest summer resort in America). She volunteers at the Wright Museum of WWII and as a trustee for her local public library.

BLOG STOPS

Christian Author J.E. Grace, December 10
Blogging With Carol, December 10
Genesis 5020, December 11
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, December 11
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 12
Have A Wonderful Day, December 12
Mommynificent, December 13
Inklings and notions, December 13
Jeanette’s Thoughts, December 14
Mary Hake, December 14
The Power of Words, December 15
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 15
A Greater Yes, December 16
Texas Book-aholic, December 16
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 17
Radiant Light, December 18
Janices book reviews, December 18
Carpe Diem, December 19
A Baker’s Perspective, December 19
Reading Is My SuperPower, December 20
margaret kazmierczak, December 21
Pursuing Stacie, December 21
Maureen’s Musings, December 22
Blossoms and Blessings, December 23
Bigreadersite, December 23

GIVEAWAY

To celebrate the tour, Celebrate Lit Publishing is giving away a $25 Amazon gift card!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c514

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Holiday Secrets

12/8/2017

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"Holiday Secrets:
by Susan Sleeman

When his ex is thrust into the crosshairs of a deadly syndicate, FBI agent Gavin McKade will do whatever it takes to protect her. Even work the case with his stubborn sheriff dad. Gavin’s holiday homecoming isn’t exactly warm and fuzzy, but he must set aside the past to make sure Lexie Grant survives. As if protecting Lexie from professional killers isn’t difficult enough, the unlikely reunion has rekindled their complicated romantic connection. But if Gavin can’t untangle Lexie from this dangerous web, the blurring line between duty and love may not matter…because this Christmas could be their last.
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I always look forward to reading Susan Sleeman's books, so I was super excited to read the first book in her new series: The McKade Law Series. Once again Susan Sleeman has hit it out of the park. From the very first line of the book until the last page, the reader is drawn into a heart pounding thrill ride filled with lots of intrigue, a dash of romance, doses of danger, and a sweet family reunion. I also loved how the characters put their faith and trust in God. The fact the story is set at Christmas time is a nice bonus. I cannot wait to find out what happens next to the McKade family.

I received a complementary copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

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Christmas at Grey Sage

12/8/2017

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"Christmas at Grey Sage"
by Phyllis Clark Nichols

Nestled in the snow-covered Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Santa Fe, the Grey Sage Inn looks like the perfect place for weary travelers to escape the craziness of the Christmas season. There's plenty to see in historic Santa Fe during the day, and the inn's owners, Maude and Silas Thornhill, are happy to spend their evenings hosting this year's guests from across the country.

But an unusual snowstorm throws a wrench in the festive mood. The sprawling inn becomes close quarters as stranded guests discover this Christmas won't be the relaxed vacation they expected. Tension and fear mount as the storm worsens, and Silas, a retired doctor, is called away in the middle of the night to care for a neighbor. The snow and stress unlocks tongues--and in the unexpected conversation that follows, secrets and pasts are revealed, and hearts are healed.

In the midst of snowdrifts and fireside conversations, of tales of days gone by, the warmth of Christmas brings a renewed hope as these trapped strangers become friends--proof again that the joy, hope, peace, and love of Christmas can be experienced no matter where you are.
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Grab a cup of hot chocolate, a warm blanket, and curl up in your favorite spot as you read this heart warming story. You may also need a tissue or two as this story will tug at your heartstrings. The first couple of chapters are kind of slow going, but after you get into the story you will not want to put it down. Everyone has something they are running from or trying to hide, but when they are trapped together during a snowstorm those secrets and Christmases past all come to light. So what are you running from this Christmas? Is there something you are trying to hide? Well just remember the true meaning of Christmas and THE ONE Who gave everything for us!!!

I received a complementary copy of this book from Litfuse Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

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Holly, Ivy, & Intrigue

12/8/2017

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Click here to purchase your copy.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Holly, Ivy & Intrigue
Author: Joanie Bruce, Alexa Verde, Denise Weimer
Genre: Mystery/suspense, Christmas
Release Date: November 13, 2017

"Holly, Ivy, & Intrigue"
by Joanie Bruce, Alexa Verde, and Denise Weimer

Christmas Murder Mix-Up
“I have to get rid of her now.”
After four months of a blissful marriage, Paige is devastated to overhear her husband, Cooper, say those words to his best friend. Because of a suspicious Christmas gift, a gas leak, and a home invasion, Paige’s love for Cooper is tested to the limit. Will their marriage survive the Christmas Murder Mix-up?
Holiday Pursuit
When Brianna Rockwell’s brother finds himself in danger and disappears three days before Christmas, she does everything to rescue him. Brianna dodges bullets, escapes fire, and even turns to her longtime crush for help. But the closer she gets to solving the mystery and finding her only sibling, the more desperate someone gets to silence her forever…A HOLIDAY INTRUDER:
Kelsey Jordan prefers upcycling junk and refinishing antiques for her store in a Georgia mountains town to being the center of attention. When a robbery and an unknown benefactor shove her in the middle of a decades-old mystery, and a real estate developer and a former baseball star compete for her attention, Kelsey isn’t sure who to trust.
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If you love Christmas and suspense stories, then this is the perfect novella collection for you. Filled with fast-paced, hilarious, and suspenseful stories this is a collection not to be missed. I really enjoyed these short stories, my only complaint is that I wish they were longer. Each story has its own unique plot and twists to it that will keep you guessing. It is really hard for me to pick a favorite of the three, they were each very good. "Christmas Murder Mix-Up" kind of reminded me of that old story "Sorry Wrong Number". They are not exactly the same, but they are similar in that the wife overhears a telephone conversation and then she thinks that she is going to be killed. This collection of stories is a very quick and good read just perfect for the holiday season.

I received a complementary e-book copy of this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

As an avid reader, Joanie Bruce welcomed the transition from reading to writing and considered it a wonderful new experience to please others with her words. She has three published Christian suspense novels, and enjoys writing from her home in the country. Thankful that God has given her the ability to write, draw and paint, Joanie strives to use them to encourage others and to honor Him in all her accomplishments.

.Alexa Verde penned her first literary masterpiece, a rhymed poem, at the ripe age of eight, and since has had 200 short stories, articles, and poems published in the five languages that she speaks. She has a bachelor degree in Spanish, a master’s in Russian, and enjoys writing about characters with diverse cultures. She’s worn the hats of reporter, teacher, translator, model (even one day counts!), caretaker, and secretary, but thinks that the writer’s hat suits her the best. After traveling the world and living in both hemispheres, she calls a small town in south Texas home. The latter is an inspiration for the fictional setting of her series Rios Azules Christmas and Secrets of Rios Azules.

DENISE WEIMER holds a journalism degree with a minor in history from Asbury University. An associate editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, Denise is the author of The Restoration Trilogy, The Georgia Gold Series, romantic novella REDEEMING GRACE, and ACROSS THREE AUTUMNS: A Novella of The Backcountry Brides Collection through Barbour Publishing (May 2018). This wife and swim mom of two daughters always pauses for coffee, chocolate, old houses, and to write any story God lays on her heart.

BLOG STOPS

Texas Book-aholic, December 3
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 3
Reflections From My Bookshelves, December 4
History, Mystery & Faith, December 4
Zerina Blossom’s Books, December 5
proud to be an autism mom, December 5
Mommynificent, December 6
Inklings and notions, December 6
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 6
Allofakindmom, December 7
Blogging With Carol, December 7
Blossoms and Blessings, December 8
Have A Wonderful Day, December 8
Janices book reviews, December 9
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 9
Carpe Diem, December 10
Mary Hake, December 10
A Baker’s Perspective, December 11
Daysong Reflections, December 12
Avid Reader Book Reviews, December 12
Reading Is My SuperPower, December 13
Remembrancy, December 13
Multifarious, December 14
Margaret Kazmierczak, December 14
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, December 15
Pursuing Stacie, December 15
Vicky Sluiter, December 16
Bigreadersite, December 16

GIVEAWAY

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The Heart of an Agent

12/8/2017

4 Comments

Click here to purchase your copy.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Name of book: The Heart of an Agent
Author: Tracey J. Lyons
Genre: Inspirational historical romance
Release Date: November 7, 2017

"The Heart of an Agent"
by Tracey J. Lyons

Tracey J. Lyons, the author of A Changed Agent, returns to the Adirondack Mountains of the 1890s in a novel of love, faith, and secrets…
Former Pinkerton spy Lily Handland has always dreamed of a quiet, safe life, free from chasing criminals and putting herself at risk. So when the opportunity to invest in a failing Great Camp in the Adirondacks comes to her attention, she quickly jumps at the chance.
Filled with grief, widower Owen Murphy wants to run away from it all. Though he’s worked hard to forge a future for himself, his guilt has kept him mired in the past. But all that changes when a headstrong, mysterious woman shows up at Owen’s door. Together, as Lily and Owen restore the beauty of the Great Camp, he begins to finally see a future. But will learning about Lily’s past destroy it all?
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I was so excited to read this book because of the link to the Pinkertons, unfortunately Lily has retired from the Pinkertons so there isn't much action involving them. The story between Lily and Owen was nice though, but was more of a romantic type story with hurdles and dilemmas along the way. I enjoyed learning about the Adirondacks as I didn't know much about that area before and it is always good to learn new things!

I did not appreciate the slang words and how some people took God's Name in vain. Also I only read the King James Bible, so the use of other versions was not for me either. I realize that some people will not have a problem with any of these things, but I am just being honest.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

An Amazon Top Ten bestselling historical romance author of the Adirondack Pinkertons and the Women of Surprise series, Tracey was a 2017 National Excellence Romance Fiction Award finalist. She sold her first book on 9/9/99! Her books have been translated into several languages and are available in print, digital and audio formats. A true upstate New Yorker, Tracey believes you should write what you know. Her historical romances are all set in the New York State area. Tracey considers herself a small town gal who writes small town romances. You can learn more about Tracey and her books by visiting her website at www.traceylyons.com.

GUEST POST FROM THE AUTHOR

My family and I spent a lot of time in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State. When I came up with the idea for the Pinkerton series, I knew the books had to be set in a place that I loved. The Heart of An Agent, book 2 in The Adirondack Pinkertons series takes place at an Adirondack great camp. Imagine a time when people would travel from faraway places to hike the many trails or lounge on a porch in one of the famed Adirondack chairs. These intricate, grand structures, built during the latter part of the nineteenth century are part of the unique landscape and history that makes up the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York. I enjoyed creating the fictional Murphy camp, the setting for Lily Handland and Owen Murphy’s story.

BLOG STOPS

Just the Write Escape, November 30
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, November 30
Texas Book-aholic, December 1
Locks, Hooks and books, December 1
A Greater Yes, December 2
Faery Tales Are Real, December 2
Multifarious, December 3
To Everything a Season, December 3
Reader’s cozy corner, December 4
Janice’s book reviews, December 5
Carpe Diem, December 6
Bibliophile Reviews, December 7
Pause for Tales, December 8
Have A Wonderful Day, December 8
With a Joyful Noise, December 9
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, December 10
Daysong Reflections, December 10
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 11
Mary Hake, December 11
My Writer’s Life, December 12
Books n Baubles, December 12
Jeanette’s Thoughts, December 13

GIVEAWAY

To celebrate her tour, Tracey is giving away a Grand Prize Package of a tea-time themed gift box (Valued at over $75) and a $25 Visa Gift Card!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c1f6

4 Comments

21 Days of Christmas

12/1/2017

2 Comments

Click here to buy your copy.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Name of book: 21 Days of Christmas: A Fiction Lover’s Devotional
Author: Kathy Ide
Genre: Christian Fiction Devotional
Release Date: September 1, 2015

"21 Days of Christmas"
by Kathy Ide

Christmas is more than just a holiday. It is a time to recapture the joy and wonder of God’s greatest gift: His Son, Jesus.
21 Days of Christmas will warm your heart with stories about giving, loving, and family. These engaging tales celebrate the hope and joy that make this blessed season unique. At the end of each story you’ll find an insightful message that will help you discover anew the true meaning of this special time of year. So grab a cup of hot apple cider with a cinnamon stick, curl up in your favorite chair beside a picture window overlooking a serene spot, and savor the true meaning of Christmas through these inspirational and encouraging stories.
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This collection of Christmas stories makes the perfect devotional for the Christmas season. After each story there is a life application section, where you can reflect on your own life and how these stories may pertain to you. Some of the stories are sad and will make you cry, while others are very happy and uplifting. It is a nice combination of the two. You could even read some of these stories to your kids and use the stories as a way to teach your children the true meaning of Christmas. What I did not like about this book was the author's use of different version of the Bible. I only read the King James Bible, so the different versions were not really working for me.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kathy is the editor/compiler of the Fiction Lover’s Devotional series (www.FictionDevo.com) and author of “Proofreading Secrets of Best-Selling Authors” (http://secretsofbestsellingauthors.com). She has also written numerous articles, short stories, devotionals, play scripts, and Sunday school curriculum. She has ghostwritten ten nonfiction books and a five-book novel series.
She is also a full-time freelance editor, working with aspiring, new, and experienced authors as well as publishers.
Kathy speaks at writers’ conferences across the country.
She is the founder and coordinator of The Christian PEN: Proofreaders and Editors Network (www.TheChristianPEN.com) and the Christian Editor Connection (www.ChristianEditor.com).
For more about Kathy, visit www.KathyIde.com.

GUEST POST FROM KATHY IDE

Looking for a great Christmas gift for friends and family who love fiction … or devotionals? You can give them both in one book!

21 Days of Christmas: Stories that Celebrate God’s Greatest Gift is book two in the Fiction Lover’s Devotional series. It’s a collection of 21 fiction stories, each written by a different author—including well-known novelists such as Lena Nelson Dooley, Joanne Bischof, Jan Cline, and Lynn Kinnaman. Some stories are about the first Christmas, when Mary and Joseph brought God’s Son into the world. Others are about how we celebrate that history-changing event today. Each story is followed by a brief Life Application written by the author of that story.

The first chapter starts out with an amusing tale of a modern-day couple in the front seat of a car, on Christmas Eve, traveling to see relatives for the holiday. They’re griping about the hassles of the season, and hollering at the the kids, who are playing with the foil on Mom’s Jell-O salad in the backseat. Then we break from that to a scene of Mary and Joseph entering Bethlehem, about to bring God’s Son into the world. It contrasts the modern-day wife, not wanting to go into a sleazy diner because it’s the only place open on Christmas Eve, with Mary hesitating to go into a smelly barnyard to give birth. When the modern-day couple decide to tell their children the Christmas story—complete with snow and a little drummer boy—the contrasts become both highly funny and very poignant.

I wrote one of the chapters in the book. It’s about the first Christmas, from the perspective of Joseph. What he must have thought and felt when Mary was giving birth to Jesus, knowing that he had been personally given the divine responsibility to teach God’s Son about God. Based on the Old Testament teachings he’d been raised with, what did Joseph think Jesus would be like when He was born, and how did reality clash with those expectations?

This book makes a great gift for family and friends, with its beautiful debossed hardback cover, full-color interior, and a ribbon page marker. With stories about the Nativity as well as tales of modern-day people celebrating that event, almost anyone would enjoy receiving a copy and reading it—even those who don’t believe in Christ as their Savior. It’s small enough to be a stocking stuffer (or tucked into the pocket of a Christmas-themed pot holder!) and inexpensive enough to be a practical gift for those people you’re not sure will reciprocate, or who may feel uncomfortable if they didn’t get you anything.

This devotional would also be ideal to incorporate into an individual’s or a family’s advent celebration, reading one chapter a day during the three weeks leading up to Christmas.

Each chapter takes only about ten minutes to read, which makes it ideal for the hectic holiday season. And since each chapter stands alone, it doesn’t matter whether you read one or two stories, half the book, or the whole thing.

Other books in the Fiction Lover’s Devotional series are:
21 Days of Grace: Stories that Celebrate God’s Unconditional Love
21 Days of Love: Stories that Celebrate Treasured Relationships
21 Days of Joy: Stories that Celebrate Motherhood

BLOG STOPS

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, November 21
Reflections From My Bookshelves, November 21
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 22
Reader’s Cozy Corner, November 22
Blossoms and Blessings, November 23
Carpe Diem, November 23
Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, November 24
Multifarious, November 25
A Reader’s Brain, November 25
A Greater Yes, November 26
Lane Hill House, November 26
Texas Book -aholic, November 27
Jeanette’s Thoughts, November 27
Karen Sue Hadley, November 28
By The Book, November 29
Seasons of Opportunities, November 29
Mary Hake, November 30
Have A Wonderful Day, December 1
Remebrancy, December 2
God’s Little Bookworm, December 3
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 4

GIVEAWAY

To celebrate her tour, Kathy is giving away a grand prize of a set of 21 days devotional books!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c3c2

2 Comments

Runaway Romance

12/1/2017

7 Comments

Click here to buy your copy.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Name of book: Runaway Romance
Author: Miralee Ferrell
Genre: Contemporary romance with Amish thread
Release Date: October, 2017

"Runaway Romance"
by Miralee Ferrell

When a reality TV star meets the reality of life, will it be her downfall or her salvation?
Ann Stanway had it all—a starring role in a reality show, an adoring boyfriend, and a sparkling future with limitless possibilities. Until the rules changed and the life she’d thought was real no longer existed. Leaving L.A. seems like her only option, and she lands in Kentucky at a quiet Amish inn—as far removed from her past as possible. Now she knows what was missing in her life–peace, true friendship and, dare she hope, a man who accepts her for who she is–or at least who he thinks she is.
Hunter Lewis is intrigued by the new woman staying at his friend’s Amish inn. Annie appears to be what she claims, but she’s secretive and won’t open up. He’s been burned by a woman before and can’t tolerate deception. But his interest in Annie is growing, and the attraction seems to be mutual—until something happens that makes Hunter question everything he’d thought was real. Dare he risk his heart, when he’s certain Annie is keeping secrets?
Can their new romance withstand the pressure, or will Ann choose to run again?
*****************************************************************************
Have you ever watched a movie because of a book or instead of reading the book the movie is based on? Well I must admit that I was interested in reading this book because I saw the preview for the movie a couple of months back. The preview intrigued, but then I found out that the movie was not airing until next year. So when I was given the opportunity to read the book, I jumped at the chance. The story is very well written (although a tad predictable at times) with many interesting characters. What I enjoyed the most was the faith aspect of the book and the lessons that we can learn from this book. Just as the characters needed to learn to depend on God and to trust Him for everything, we need to do so as well. I cannot wait to watch the movie coming out next year. I just hope that it does justice to the book.

I received a complementary e-book copy of this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I love life, love my family, love writing Christian fiction–reading, riding my horse and puttering in my garden are all ways I relax. I often have my little 7 lb Chihuahua, Lacey, on my lap when I’m working–there’s nothing like a warm ball of love on your lap to act as a stress reliever!
First and foremost I’m a child of God and daughter of the King. I’ve been involved in women’s ministries for years, I’m married to a wonderful man, have two grown children, two cats, two dogs, 10 chickens and ride my son-in-law’s Arabian mare since my old mare passed in 2013. We live about 9 miles from the nearest town on 11 acres, in a peaceful setting surrounded by trees.
I started writing shortly after I turned 50, and discovered I loved it so much I don’t want to stop. I have 15 novels out & a five book set of horse novels for middle-grade girls. I write both women’s contemporary fiction, historical & contemporary romance, and horse/mystery novels for girls. One of my Western romances, Love Finds You in Sundance, WY, was awarded the Will Rogers Medallion for Western Fiction, three books have been optioned as movies, and several books have been on the ECPA best seller list. You can find out more about me andmy books at http://miraleeferrell.com/

GUEST POST FROM THE AUTHOR

In the spring of 2015, I received an email from a Hollywood producer, followed by a phone call. Imagine my surprise when she asked if I’d be willing to write a book for them. They were no longer producing the Love Finds You books into movies and were working on a different project for UP TV, a possible three-movie series, and she hoped I might be able to work with them. She explained that she’d optioned Love Finds You in Sundance, Wyoming, two or three years earlier, and loved it. Of the thirty-five or so titles she’d read of the line, that was her favorite. However, UP TV didn’t want to make historical or old west movies, so she’d shelved it for now.
During that time period, I’d gotten my rights returned to all of my LFY books and had retitled them Finding Love in Last Chance, California, Finding Love in Tombstone, Arizona, and Finding Love in Bridal Veil, Oregon. Sundance became Outlaw Angel, and all four are still in print.
Here’s the amazing part. I came very, very close to turning down that contract offer with Summerside for Sundance. I was disappointed in the advance and royalty rate, and shortly after they released it, they sold the line to Guideposts, and that company didn’t continue the line much longer. Understandably, sales waned on their final releases, and I was disappointed with my sales from that final book as my others had done quite well. For a long time, I wished I hadn’t taken that contract and instead held out for one with another company for a three-book series. However, had I done that, I doubt Runaway Romance would ever have been written. It was Sundance that grabbed Chevonne’s attention and caused her to contact me. And the rest, as they say, is history.

BLOG STOPS

Blogging With Carol, November 28
Reflections from my bookshelves, November 28
Janices book review, November 29
Books, Books, and More Books., November 29
Books n baubles, November 30
Blossoms and Blessings, November 30
Have A Wonderful Day, December 1
Inklings and notions, December 1
Christian Chick’s Thoughts, December 2
Texas Book-aholic, December 2
History, Mystery & Faith, December 3
Bigreadersite, December 4
The Power of Words, December 4
Kat’s Corner Books, December 5
Reading Is My SuperPower, December 5 (Interview)
Baker Kella, December 6
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 6
Splashes of Joy, December 7
Karen Sue Hadley, December 7
Quiet Quilter, December 8
Red Headed Book Lady, December 9
Just the Write Escape, December 9
Cafinated Reads, December 10
Remembrancy, December 11
Carpe Diem, December 11

GIVEAWAY

In honor of her tour, Miralee is giving away a grand prize of a Kindle Fire! Click the link below to enter! Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c31a

7 Comments

Under the Mistletoe

12/1/2017

0 Comments

"Under the Mistletoe"
by Jenna Brandt, Lorana Hoopes, Judith Robl, Mary C. Findley, Carol E. Keen, Elle E. Kay, Evangeline Kelly, and CJ Samuels

Christmas is the time when families get together and love abounds. 8 inspirational authors have teamed up to bring you 8 wonderful Christmas novellas sure to bring you joy this holiday season.
Enjoy 2 historical and 6 contemporary romance stories sure to warm your heart.

The Christmas Bride by Jenna Brandt, Once Upon a Star by Lorana Hoopes, Gift of Peace by Judith Robl, Fall on Your Knees by Mary C. Findley, Christmas Conundrum by Carol E. Keen, Holly’s Noel by Elle E. Kay, Love’s Sacrifice by Evangeline Kelly, and Christmas in Trace Hallow by C.J. Samuels
***************************************************************************** I love reading Christmas stories, so I was super excited to have the chance to read this wonderful collection. Each of these stories will wrap you with the Christmas spirit and will most definitely put you in the Christmas mood. The stories are unique and special in their own way with the common theme of Christmas. If you are looking for a way to relax during the hustle and bustle of the holidays, then this Christmas collection of short stories is exactly what you need.

I received a complementary e-book copy of this book from Jenna Brandt(one of the authors in this collection) in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

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