The Feathered Bone by Julie Cantrell

“Feathers—no matter what size or shape or color—are all the same, if you think about them. They’re soft. Delicate. But the secret thing about feathers is . . . they are very strong.”

 In the pre-Katrina glow of New Orleans, Amanda Salassi is anxious about chaperoning her daughter’s sixth-grade field trip to the Big Easy during Halloween. And then her worst fears come true. Her daughter’s best friend, Sarah, disappears amid the magic and revelry—gone, without a trace.

Unable to cope with her guilt, Amanda’s daughter sinks into depression. And Amanda’s husband turns destructive as he watches his family succumb to grief. Before long, Amanda’s whole world has collapsed.

Amanda knows she has to save herself before it’s too late. As she continues to search for Sarah, she embarks on a personal journey, seeking hope and purpose in the wake of so much tragedy and loss.

Set amidst the murky parishes of rural Louisiana and told through the eyes of two women who confront the darkest corners of humanity with quiet and unbreakable faith, The Feathered Bone is Julie Cantrell’s master portrait of love in a fallen world.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Looking at the cover of this book, I wasn’t sure what it would be about. I don’t read the back cover or reviews until I’m into reading the book, so I had no idea what it was about. But being a Julie Cantrell book, I knew it had to be good. The story starts off with Amanda chaperoning her daughters class on a field trip, but things turn bad when her daughter’s friend Sarah disappears and couldn’t be found. This throws Amanda and her daughter into a state of depression.

This is not an easy book to read. It is so full of emotions and tension that I had to put it down for a while, but then I couldn’t wait to pick it back up because I wanted to find out what would happen to the characters. The Feathered Bone deals with some pretty tough issues, mainly human trafficking. This is an issue I would love to be able to help with in some way because it is so horrifying and downright scary! I appreciate authors such as Ms. Cantrell writing on such issues. My heart ached with  each character as they grieved for their classmate. The scenes are so vivid, its like they are real life actions, and I felt drawn into the story as if I was a part of it.

There is a lot going on in this story, it goes deep, a story that you can’t just read in a day like some books. I felt like I was digging deeper and deeper as I read this one. If you like stories that deal with horrific issues that happen in today’s world, then I highly encourage you to read this one! I received this book from The Fiction Guild to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

There Will Be Stars by Billy Coffee

There Will Be Stars
By Billy Coffey

“IN A LIFE FULL OF LIES, HE FINALLY SETTLED FOR THE TRUTH.”

No one in Mattingly ever believed Bobby Barnes would live to see old age. Drink would either rot Bobby from the inside out or dull his senses just enough to send his truck off the mountain on one of his nightly rides. Although Bobby believes such an end possible—and even likely—it doesn’t stop him from taking his twin sons Matthew and Mark into the mountains one Saturday night. A sharp curve, blinding headlights, metal on metal, his sons’ screams. Bobby’s final thought as he sinks into blackness is a curious one—There will be stars.

Yet it is not death that greets him beyond the veil. Instead, he returns to the day he has just lived and finds he is not alone in this strange new world. Six others are trapped with him.

Bobby soon discovers that this supposed place of peace is actually a place of secrets and hidden dangers. Along with three others, he seeks to escape, even as the world around him begins to crumble. The escape will lead some to greater life, others to endless death . . . and Bobby Barnes to understand the deepest nature of love.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Bobby Barnes seems to be what is known as the town drunk who takes his twin sons Matthew and Mark to the mountains one Saturday night. There was an accident that turned Bobby’s world around.

It took me a while to get into this book, I’m really not a fan of this type of book, but after reading for a while, it did get interesting. There are a number of characters that make up this story, and they develop well as the story unfolds. This story seems to be one that either you like it or you don’t, so I encourage you to pick up a copy of There Will Be Stars and see what you think. If you enjoy fantasy type books, I think this one would be for you.

I received this book from The Fiction Guild to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

Celebration Lit Tours presents She Who Knows by Barbara Bras plus Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

Purchase your copy of She Who Knows here.

About the Book

One girl’s journey from loneliness to love.

Isolated on a Maui mountaintop, Cassandra has only her imagination to keep her company. Shut in due to her heart condition and shut out emotionally by her father, she meets the Menehune in a dream. Their “Gift” enables her to take the first step away from her loneliness. Along the way she finds an amazing woman in the grandmother she never knew and experiences true friendship with a new classmate. Eventually she learns that to love another she must open her heart, even if it means it may break.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Cassandra lived a very lonely life because of her illness, not being able to attend school, or even go out an play with other children her age. When she meets little people called Menehune in a dream, her life changed because these little people gave her the ability to read other people’s minds.

I felt so bad for Cassandra because she didn’t have the life of a normal child. And then she looses her grandmother, which was even more heartbreaking. The story gets interesting when the Menehune arrives, though at first I wasn’t sure where the story was going. But then as I kept reading, and the story gets into an older Cassandra, it gets more meaningful for me, and I really enjoyed reading it. This is my first book by Barbara Bras, and it was a delight to read. I encourage you to pick up a copy for yourself to read. You will not be disappointed.

I received this book from Celebration Lit Blog Tours to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

About the Author

In 2015, Barbara Bras left her career to pursue her dream of serving God. She believed that her first step would be to share the amazing ways God had blessed her. As she wrote of her son’s miraculous adoption and the challenging years that followed, it led to the rediscovery of her entire life, including the history of her grandparents’ remarkable survival in Armenia and her search for purpose and love. Her memoir led to her first novel, which she hopes readers will find engaging and memorable.

Guest Post from Barbara Bras

An interviewer asked what inspired me to write and publish two books within a year. It’s a long story. Unlike many authors, I didn’t always write, nor did I yearn to write. In fact, the opposite was true for me; fear of judgement discouraged me from writing. Judgement from my mother, an English teacher and a strict perfectionist who demanded excellence in everything, especially writing.

In spite of the circumstances, my love of reading led to my first profession, teaching English at the high school level. Teaching laid the foundation for my career, which ultimately resulted in twenty-five plus years in various corporate environments as an Human Resources leader. Naturally, during my career I wrote a great deal, including proposals, papers, and communications of all kinds. But never anything creative, I never even journaled.

Almost two years ago, our Pastor handed out little pieces of paper during his sermon that said, “ENOUGH”. He questioned our inane desire to accumulate things when we already have the one thing that is needful. Just as Mary choose to worship at the feet of Jesus rather than be distracted by the world, so must we choose what is most important. (Luke 10:42) It struck a nerve.

Shortly thereafter, I made the decision to leave my position of ten years. Unsure of my next move, I focused my energy on a burning desire. Ever since the Lord provided a son for us through a miraculous adoption, I believed He wanted me to share it as an encouragement to others. I had tried to write the story many times without success. I signed up for retreat that promised, “Write your book in a weekend!”

The three-day retreat required nonstop writing, first in long hand, then on the pc. Amazingly, at the end of the third day I had not only finally written the story of the miraculous adoption, I had shared the incredible disappointment and heartache of the years that followed, all captured within the context of my life and the life of my ancestors. Wrapped in God’s Grace, a Life Rediscovered had materialized. I felt a great release and I thought that would be the end of my writing.

Over the next few months as I edited the book, I followed the system of editing for 45 minutes, and writing new material for 15. What emerged during those 15 minute segments became Cassandra’s story, or She Who Knows, a Tale of the Heart. The story unfolded in front of me, inspired by the woman who supervised my student teaching in Honolulu back in 1977.

Barbara Robinson was an inspiration to me both as a teacher and as a person. As we worked together that semester, she shared many stories and took me under her wing. She told me the story of how her grandmother, a musician, had come to islands and married her seafaring grandfather. She spent a great deal of her childhood isolated in the mountains on Maui, presumably to recover from an illness. When finally allowed to return to school years later, her years of isolation and her archaic English made for a lonely life. She also believed she that she had an usual gift, which she decided was better left unused.

So what began as an effort to share my story and encourage others has developed into a love of writing and a desire to serve the Lord through my new passion.

Soli Deo Gloria. To God Alone Be the Glory!

Blog Stops

July 21: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberation

July 22: A Reader’s Brain

July 23: Mary Hake

July 24: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner

July 25: Eat, Read, Teach, Blog

July 26: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses

July 27: A Greater Yes

July 27: Reading Is My SuperPower (Spotlight)

July 28: A Bakers Perspective

July 29: Splashes of Joy

July 29: Artistic Nobody (Spotlight)

July 30: Cassandra M’s Place

July 31: Bukwurmzzz

August 1: Simple Harvest Reads

August 2: Carpe Diem

August 3: Pause for Tales

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Barbara is giving away a $100 Amazon gift card, copies of She Who Knows, and Wrapped In God’s Grace. Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/9f1e

All Summer Long by Melody Carlson from Revell

All Summer Long 
by Melody Carlson

She’s ready to take on a new challenge. What she doesn’t expect is an old flame.

Tia D’Amico is thrilled to move to San Francisco to help her aunt transform an old luxury yacht into an upscale floating restaurant. What’s not to love? Sunset dinner cruises, posh wedding receptions–the possibilities are endless and far more appetizing than staying in a monotonous job in her Podunk hometown. Besides, some of her best memories are tied to San Francisco–especially the memory of Leo Parker, her crush from a long-ago sailing camp.

When Leo Parker himself turns out to be the yacht’s captain, Tia is floating on air. But will it all come crashing down around her when she discovers his heart belongs to someone else?

Get ready for a romantic summer in San Francisco, where the future glistens brighter than the Bay at sunset.

Praise for Once Upon a Summertime

“Carlson kicks off her new series with this heartwarming and uplifting novel about taking a chance on fulfilling your dreams. . . . A pleasant summer escape.”–Library Journal

“Sweet, romantic, and endlessly entertaining.”–Christian Manifesto

“[The] perfect summer read for a day at the beach.”–CBA Retailers + Resources

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Tia D’Amico is more than excited when her aunt calls her to help transform an old luxury yacht into an upscale floating restaurant, but when she arrives in San Francisco she finds out her uncle had a heart attach, and she is pretty much on her own with the inside renovations. Taking care of the outside changes is the new Captain of the Yacht, Leo Parker. Leo and Tia had met ten years ago while she was visiting her aunt and went to a sailing camp. Tia was thrilled to be working with Leo, that is until she finds out he is engaged to a gorgeous young lady.

All Summer Long is an adorable romance from one of my favorite authors, Melody Carlson. The characters are sweet, hardworking and loves their families very much. As I was reading, I thought about this being an awesome read for teenagers, the would be able to relate with the characters better than us older folks. But don’t get me wrong, I loved Tia and Leo’s story. Even though they faced ups and downs, it was fun keeping up with the two and what was going on in their lives. I didn’t put this book down but a few times as I read it. If you are looking for an enjoyable, light summer read, this is an awesome book for you. I encourage you to check it out.

I received this book from Revell to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

 

ABOUT THIS AUTHOR

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with sales of more than 6.5 million. She received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including Finding Alice. She and her husband live in central Oregon. Learn more at http://www.melodycarlson.com.

Honor Redeemed by Christine Johnson from Revell

 

About This Book

Her future–and her heart–hang in the balance.

Two years ago, Prosperity Jones waved farewell to her beloved David as the army sent him to faraway Key West. Now with her parents gone, she has but one prospect for the future: make the dangerous journey from Nantucket to Key West to reunite with David and secure a happier life.

But when Prosperity arrives penniless in the South, she is dismayed to find David has not been eagerly awaiting their reunion. In fact, he is married to someone else. Scrambling to survive and nursing a broken heart, Prosperity gains the friendship–and the affection–of a kind doctor. Could he be the answer to her loneliness? Or will her life be upended by circumstance yet again?

With a deft hand, Christine Johnson fills the senses with the sights, sounds, and smells of Key West in this heartwarming story of honor lost, honor redeemed, and a love forged in adversity.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

 When Prosperity’s mother passed away, she was along, with not a lot of money. So, she decides to use what money she had to go to Key West where her fiancée was hoping for a happier life being with someone she knows. But what she didn’t except was to surprise David, and find the shock of her life that the love she thought she had was married to another. He had moved on, leaving her with nothing!

David is really a jerk, to put it nicely. He deserved a lot more that he rec’d because of what he did. I felt so bad for Prosperity, not knowing anyone. It’s when she meets a very kind Dr. that things starting looking up for her. Christine Johnson writes a wonderful and compelling story that will take you through a situation that no one should have to go through. But life happens, and Ms. Johnson does an amazing job of creating characters and developing their lives in a way that makes the story so realistic, it feels like reading a real life story. There was a lot going on in Honor Redeemed, and emotions flying everywhere, but through it all, God’s love, grace, forgiveness and redemption was so plain and clear. And that was so encouraging to me. Because God can take the horrible things in our lives and make something good and wonderful from them.

I encourage you to pick up a copy of this wonderful book for a few hours of joy and entertainment.I received this book from Litfuse to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 57.

ABOUT THIS AUTHOR

Christine Johnson

Christine Johnson is the author of several books for Steeple Hill and Love Inspired and has been twice named a finalist for Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart® award. When not writing, she loves to hike and explore God’s majestic creation. These days, she and her husband, a Great Lakes ship pilot, split their time between northern Michigan and the Florida Keys.

What Matters Most by Kellie Coates Gilbert

 

What Matters Most

by Kellie Coates Gilbert
Texas Gold Collection

Just when she can’t take it anymore, Leta finally catches a break. But when things seem too good to be true, they often are.

Finding her dream job went right out the window when Leta Breckenridge had to quit school to help care for her mother suffering from dementia. When a delinquent account may force her mother into a less desirable facility, Leta is thrilled to land a high-paying job at an Austin public relations firm. But her seemingly ideal job turns into a nightmare when she learns the firm is a front for a political opposition organization–and that the research she’s been collecting will be used against Nathan Emerson, the handsome senator she’s swiftly falling in love with.

Nathan is a rising political star being pressured to run a bid to unseat the current governor of Texas. He’s already in a relationship with a woman much better suited to be a politician’s wife, but he’s never met anyone like Leta. Could this feisty woman hold the key to his heart–and his future?

With emotional depth and keen insight into what drives us, Kellie Coates Gilbert offers a salient story that calls us to consider what we value most in this life.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

This was an interesting read, being this is election year! Leta Breckenridge lands a excellent paying job at a public relations firm. What Leta didn’t know is that she would be used in ways that were very uncomfortable for her. Nathan Emerson may be in the next running race for governor of Texas, and he has just the right woman by his side to make his running complete. But then he meets Leta, and she is so different from anyone he’s ever met before. But two very different lifestyles at this point in Nathan’s life?

I have grown to love books written by Kellie Coates Gilbert, and each book keeps getting better.  Ms. Gilbert develops characters that are so very realistic and believable. As I read everything going on in this book, I had to ask myself; Does this really happen in real life? And I’m afraid my answer leans more toward yes that anything else. This story shows that lying, cheating, deceitfulness, always comes back to bite you.

I also loved the relationship Leta had with her mom. Even though her mom didn’t know how she was most of the time, Leta still needed her mom and they were so sweet together. I hope I have said enough to want you to read this book. I don’t want to give away any of the story, for me it ruins it when someone does that. I strongly encourage you to pick up a copy of this book and read it. You will not be disappointed in this one. Or anything this author writes!

I received this book from Revell to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

ABOUT THIS AUTHOR

Kellie Coates Gilbert

Kellie Coates Gilbert is a former legal investigator and trial paralegal, and the author of A Woman of Fortune and Where Rivers Part. Gilbert crafts her emotionally charged stories about women in life-changing circumstances in Dallas, Texas, where she lives with her husband. Learn more at http://www.kelliecoatesgilbert.com.

Missing by Lisa Harris, by Revell

Missing
by Lisa Harris

 

ABOUT THIS BOOK
The Nikki Boyd Files

“A thrill ride from start to finish.”
RT Book Reviews, 4½ stars, Top Pick on Vendetta

Nikki Boyd isn’t usually called in on homicides; her forte is missing persons. But when a case with two murdered and two missing pops up on a quiet suburban street, she’s ready to start the investigation and find missing homeowners Mac and Lucy Hudson. When the first clues lead her to the boat of her friend Tyler Grant–and another dead body–Nikki must untangle what ties Tyler to the Hudsons. The clues pull her into a deadly maze of counterfeit drugs and a killer who will stop at nothing to silence anyone who threatens his business–including Nikki.

Christy Award-winning and bestselling author Lisa Harris puts you right into the action in this fast-paced thriller.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I am so much enjoying this series by Lisa Harris! The first book, Vendetta was a fast pace thriller that kept me on my toes the entire time I was reading it. And this second book, Missing is just as good, if not better. Missing Persons Special Task Force Agent Nikki Boyd is again tangled into a web of dangerous people that will do anything, including taking the lives of people that might disclose their secrets. And of course millions and millions of dollars is at stake. Nikki’s friend Tyler is pulled into the tangle as well. Tyler is the husband of Nikki’s friend who lost her life in the first book. Nikki and Tyler seem to spend a lot of time together with Tyler and Katie’s son Liam, and even though Nikki would love to have more than a friendly relationship with Tyler, he has no interest in dating anyone until he can make peace with losing his wife Katie.

When I see a new Lisa Harris book, I know it is going to be an awesome read, because she is such an amazing suspense writer. Missing is another fast pace action packed thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. I read this book in a day, only putting it down when I absolutely had to. I feel in love with the well developed characters early on, I felt like I was living the story with them as I read the book. Each scene was so realistic, it was like reading about something in the newspaper. I love books that draw me in like that, and Ms. Harris does an amazing job of doing just that. If you enjoy suspense thrillers, you don’t want to miss this new book my Lisa Harris! And don’t forget to check out the first book, Vendetta, Go here for my review: https://splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/2015/10/30/vendetta-by-lisa-harris-from-revell/

I received this book from Revell to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

ABOUT THIS AUTHOR

Lisa Harris

Lisa Harris is a bestselling author, a Christy Award winner, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 from Romantic Times. She has sold over thirty novels and novella collections. Along with her husband, she and her three children have spent over ten years living as missionaries in Africa where she homeschools, leads a women’s group, and runs a nonprofit organization that works alongside their church-planting ministry. The ECHO Project works in southern Africa promoting Education, Compassion, Health, and Opportunity and is a way for her to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves . . . the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice” (Proverbs 31:8).

When she’s not working, she loves hanging out with her family, cooking different ethnic dishes, photography, and heading into the African bush on safari. For more information about her books and life in Africa, visit her website at http://www.lisaharriswrites.com or her blog at http://myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.com. For more information about The ECHO Project, please visit http://www.theECHOproject.org.

Litfuse Presents A Beauty Refined by Tracie Peterson plus Precious Gems Giveaway

A Beauty Refined
by Tracie Peterson

What does it take to reveal the true beauty of a hidden gem?

Phoebe Von Bergen, the daughter of a German count, is excited to visit America for the first time while her father purchases sapphires in Helena, Montana. Little does she know, however, that her father’s intentions—both for her and the gemstones—are not what she thinks.

Ian Harper, a lapidary working in Helena, finds the dignified young woman staying at the Broadwater Hotel more than a little intriguing. Yet the more he gets to know her, the more he realizes that her family story is based on a lie–a lie she has no knowledge of. And Ian believes he knows the only path that will lead her to freedom.

Meeting Ian has changed everything for Phoebe, and she begins to consider staying in America, regardless of her father’s plans. But she may not be prepared for the unexpected danger that results when her family’s deception begins to unravel.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Phoebe Von Bergen was so excited that she was going on her first trip to America with her father, but little did she know that this trip would change her life forever. As the story unfolds, so does the tension and dangers surrounding Phoebe’s life. And digging into family secrets enhances the dangers even further. Phoebe soon finds out that her father’s trip to America is more than just purchasing Sapphires for someone.

This is a story full of emotions and tension. Add to that the lies and secrets, deception and suspense and you have a wonderful and intriguing story written by author Tracie Peterson. The characters were believable and realistic and full of life. As the story develops the more intense it gets, and the more I couldn’t put it down. This is one of those books that I pick up and read until its finished. Even though we know who is doing what in the story, I kept wondering how it would end, and I didn’t figure this one out. The ending was pretty amazing. And that’s really all I want to say about this book. I hate giving away the plot, and if please watch when reading the review if you don’t want to know what happens.

I received this book from Litfuse to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

Please scroll to the end for giveaway info.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than one hundred books. Tracie also teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. She and her family live in Montana.

Little does Phoebe know that her father’s plans—for the sapphires and his daughter—are not what they seem. If you love historical fiction, romance, and adventure, don’t miss Tracie Peterson’s A Beauty Refined. When Phoebe meets Ian, everything changes. Yet the more he gets to know her, the more he realizes that her family story is based on a lie—a lie she has no knowledge of. And Ian believes he knows the only path that will lead her to freedom.

Join Tracie in celebrating the release of A Beauty Refined by entering to win her Precious Gems giveaway (details below) and by attending her author chat party on August 9!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• One copy of A Beauty Refined
• A sapphire jewelry set

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 8/9. The winner will be announced at A Beauty Refined Facebook party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Tracie and fellow fans of historical fiction, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 9th!

 

 

 

Through Raging Waters by Renee Blare

Purchase your copy here.

About the Book

If Mother Nature has her way, Timber Springs will never be the same…

A warm spring and early rainstorms melt the snowpack. Spring runoff compounded by the storm of the century sends Timber Springs into a tailspin.

Tossed into the role of rescuer, + must face his past before the whole world falls apart. While he fights to contain the beast around him, he finds his steadfast control slipping through his fingers. And life…everyone’s life…hangs by a thread…once again.

She isn’t a hero. Melissa Hampton has her own demons to battle. After she learns of her mysterious beginnings amidst her mother’s keepsakes, she faces more than just the river rushing outside her door. Now, she must discern friend from foe…but as waters rise and tension climbs within Timber Springs, she needs to rise to the challenge or lose the only man she’s ever loved.

Can two people find each other through raging waters?

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Through Raging Waters is the second book in the Snowy Range Chronicles Series by  Renee Blare. Though I read this book for the book tour, I also read Ms. Blare’s first book, To Soar on Eagle’s Wings. Please scroll down to the end of this post for the review of this first book.

Melting snow caused by heavy rains is causing very dangerous flooding conditions in the small town of Timber Springs. While local pharmacist Paul Fitzgerald is there to rescue the people of Timber Springs, he is also battling with a trouble past that he needs to come to terms with. Meanwhile, Melissa Hampton discovers disturbing information about her past but must put her mind to rescuing their small town first. Will two troubled people be able to save themselves and their small town?

I enjoyed reading Through Raging Waters, and though it can be read as a stand alone, it will benefit you to read the first book too. Through Raging Waters has so many characters, I found it easier to keep up with them because I had read book one. A lot happens in this book, the people of Timber Springs face a number of tragedies. It is sure a fast pace, action packed story. I encourage you to check out this sweet romance, and don’t forget to look for book one in the series as well.

I received this book from Celebration Lit Blog Tours to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

About the Author

Renee Blare’s nose has been buried in a book for as long as she can remember. Raised in Louisiana and Wyoming, she started writing poetry in junior high school and that, as they say, was that. After having her son, a desire to attend pharmacy school sent her small family to the University of Wyoming in Laramie. She’s been counting pills ever since. While writing’s her first love, well, after the Lord and her husband, she also likes to fish and hunt as well as pick away on her classical guitar.

Nestled in the foothills of the Wind River Mountains, she lives in Wyoming with her husband, crazy dogs, and ornery cat. She serves her beautiful small town as a pharmacist while penning her stories about struggling Christians as they travel along the journeys of their lives. She loves to interact with readers and invites you check out her website, blog, and social media.

Blog: Renee’s Inspirational Moments

Group Blog: The Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction

Website: Renee Blare|Christian Author Website

Guest Post from Renee Blare

I Wrote a Book

Five years ago, I wrote a book…and then I wrote another and another and another. Many said that the words flowed like a river onto the page. Or I painted a picture with letters. As for me? I simply write what I see so you can see it too. What about you? Do you want to write a book?

If so, there’s one thing I’d like you to know. A book’s like a child. It starts out small or simple with garbled language…often repetitive and indistinguishable. Kind of like when a baby babbles “dada” over and over. And then that moment comes when you rejoice because you hear him say “mama.” That’s the growth every book…writer…reader…yearns for.

Different stories float around inside an author’s mind, flowing in a way much like labor. Some authors plot, others don’t. And still others combine the process in a convoluted method. But like birth, no matter how the words eventually find their way to the page, the development of a book doesn’t stop with its first dawn. It takes time, energy, and growth.

Take my first release, To Soar on Eagle’s Wings. Five years ago, I wrote it, my very first book, in three months. And it was awesome! I couldn’t believe it. God brought the plot together in a phenomenal way. But publication wasn’t the next step. I had a lot to learn before that could happen.

My latest release, Through Raging Waters is the example of a writer’s growth, but also her soul. I learned that I had to leave more than my knowledge and my heart on the page. I needed to leave a piece of my soul. When you read Paul’s struggles, you read mine. Melissa’s fear and confusion? Yes, they’re mine. The anger, the pain . . . the trials, the lessons learned are scriptural but also first-hand, taught by my Father.

Writing is more than a job. It’s more than a hobby. It’s sharing your knowledge, your hope with the world. So if you want to write a book. Do it. Then take that next step, and the next. You’ll get there. Oh, and I can’t wait to read it!

Blog Stops

July 19: Pause for Tales

July 20: Book Reviews From an Avid Reader

July 21: Captive Dreams Window

July 21: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

July 22: Singing Librarian Books

July 23: A Reader’s Brain

July 24: A Greater Yes

July 24: Eat, Read, Teach, Blog

July 25: bigreadersite

July 25: Cassandra M’s Place

July 26: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

July 26: Splashes of Joy

July 27: Blossoms and Blessings

July 27: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner

July 28: Daysong Reflections

July 29: Quiet Quilter

July 30: Texas Book-aholic

July 30: Lights in a Dark World

July 31: Bukwurmzzz

July 31: Through the Open Window

August 1: Carpe Diem

Giveaway

[Insert Giveaway Picture Here]

To celebrate her tour, Renee is giving away a wonderful package that includes a $20 Cabelas gift card, a set of her series paperbacks (books 1 and 2), and fleece blanket. Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/9f08

 

MY REVIEW OF TO “SOAR ON EAGLE’S WINGS”

About This Book

Spring’s in the air. While the sun shines in Timber Springs, snow falls on the Snowy Range, and trouble’s brewing in the meadows. The area’s new game warden, Steve Mitchell launches his first wildlife investigation of the season but the trouble follows him—straight to town.  Rachel Fitzgerald’s on Spring Break. Or at least she’s trying. Between paperwork, and harassing phone calls, she may as well have stayed in her classroom. So much for relaxation. A ‘chance’ meeting with her brother’s old roommate offers her weary soul a shred of hope, but she discovers love, like life, isn’t easy.  He talks with the wisdom of the Lord but rejects the future. She wants to soar with the eagles but walks alone. And trusting God proves to be more of a challenge than ever before…

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

In ‘To Soar on Eagle’s Wings’ Rachel meets up with her brothers old roommate, Steve, and she is reminded of the crush she still has for him. Steve is the new game warden in the area and Rachel loves the outdoors and nature, so their paths are sure to cross in this small town.

Steve and Rachel are delightful characters, and I enjoyed their story. Though life wasn’t always easy for them, there were a lot of ups and downs, Ms. Blare does a nice job of keeping the story fast pace and interesting, keeping me interested in what was going to happen next. Rachel’s life is so much like that of the younger ladies in my family, liking the wildlife and the outdoors, I felt I could relate to her in a lot of ways. This is a fun and enjoyable story, one that I encourage you to read. And don’t forget the check out the second book in this series, Through Raging Waters.

This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for my review. The opinions in this review are mine only.

 

 

Dance and be Glad by Melissa Wardwell plus Nice Giveaway

Purchase your copy here.

About the Book

Jillian Matthews is a widowed mom and owner of a dance studio in a small farming community. When her husband died nine years ago in the desert of the Middle East, a piece of her died as well and she lost all joy in the day to day blessings. Tiny dancers and her daughter, Katie, are her main focus until an old flame, Michael Emerson, waltzes back into her life, awakening things she thought dead and gone.
Dr. Michael Emerson told himself he was happy with his bachelorhood after a messy divorce. He thought his life as an ER doctor and yearly missions work left no room for a wife and family. When tragedy strikes and he is left with an unforeseen situation, he must evaluate his life and make some major changes.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Dance and Be Glad follows two other books, of which I understand reading those two first would help understand this book better. But for me it was a really nice read as a stand alone. Jillian Matthews doesn’t have life very easy. The stress and emotions of being a widowed mom, taking care of her dance studio and her daughter doesn’t leave a lot of time for anything else or anyone else. Dr. Michael Emerson was happy with his life as an ER doctor and mission work, leaving him no room for anyone else in his life. But then the two meet up again.

Melissa Wardwell writes a sweet romance that deals with issues people face every day. The death of a spouse, a messy divorce, throwing all of your time and energy into starting life over after your former life is ripped out from under you. Facing stressful situations and emotions that you don’t want to deal with. But then life can change, just as it does for these two characters. I enjoyed the way Ms. Wardwell develops interesting and intriguing characters that make the story fun and entertaining, and also shows that God can change out circumstances. This is truly a story of love, forgiveness and second chances. If you are looking for a nice, clean and fun summer read, I recommend Dance and Be Glad for you.

I received this book from Celebration Lit Blog Tours to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

 

About the Author

I am an independently published author of Christian romance.
I wear many hats from one day to the next. I am a devoted wife, basketball and dance mother, teacher, taxi service, friend, caregiver, daughter, sister, and now, published author. Seeing all that is enough to make my head spin. But more importantly, I am the Daughter of the Most High King.

I was raised in and still reside in a little farm town in Mid- Michigan called Corunna. It’s quiet and simple, just the way I like it. If I can’t live out in the country among the corn fields and trees then living in this small town works for me. My husband and I have been together since high school and have 3 children, all of whom we homeschool. It has been quite the journey, but I couldn’t ask for a better life.

I decided to give writing a try because I needed something to occupy my down time, but after reading my first draft of my first book, What God Brings Together, I then understood that God had a much bigger plan. God does not give His children a desire just so that it can go to waste. I never anticipated the journey God would put me on through writing, but I am excited to see what He has in mind for the future.

I have always felt a call to reach out to women and mothers, to encourage them in their lives. So naturally, all my stories revolve around women who are mothers: single mothers, widowed mothers, young mothers, married mothers, and even women who have a mother’s heart but no children of her own.

My greatest hope is that each story touches your heart, gives you hope, or just gives you a moment away from the chaos of life. Lord, knows we have earned it.

Guest Post from Melissa Wardwell

When I wrote the first book in this series, “What God Brings Together”, it wasn’t supposed to become a series. It has seemed to have a mind of its own and is spiraling into other books.

You met Dr. Michael Emerson in the first book as the third wheel to Emma and Ryan’s crazy triangle. As soon as I finished it and read through it one last time, Mike’s character begged to have his own story. I felt bad giving such a nice guy a sad ending. So an idea formed for a story focused on him but it took me a while to decide on who his other half would be. I was sitting in front of the dance studio two of my kids attend, and it hit me. A Dance teacher and studio owner. From there the story went out of control- in a good way. The dance studio is the actual studio my kids dance at, and much of the descriptions of the location are the same as the space. The town is even the real town this studio is in. It is such a quiet place and I love it.

I live in the area this series takes place. The county has a funny name as it is a Native American name – Shiawassee. It is nothing but small towns and farm land. New Lothrop, the main location for this story, has a population of approx. 600. I spend many hours there because of dance and I have grown to love the quiet little farm town.

I like to bring light to actual business in some of my work, so when I chose to write in Infinity Dance Company I had to include the location. There is also a neat little coffee shop that I talk about in this book that is also an actual coffee shop.

I am all about promoting local business, so if I can plug a cool business in my books, I will.

You will see a bit more of another character from the first book, Tiffany, and you’ll get some insight into her story as well but you won’t get the full picture until the release of “I Know the Plans” which is set to come out no later than next spring – hopefully. I also introduce a new character in “Dance and Be Glad” whose story is heartbreaking but you won’t know much more until book four “Redeemed Through Grace” comes out in 2018.

“Dance and Be Glad” is about finding joy in the middle of uncertainty and the scary moments in life. We can let the sudden changes bring us down or we can look at them as an opportunity to learn something new. I have witnessed a lot of tragedy and sudden losses in my personal life to learn that God still has me in His hands even when I feel like my world is crumbling. My prayer is that each reader can have a similar revelation.

Blog Stops

July 12: Blossoms and Blessings

July 12: Debbie Dusty’s Deliberations

July 13: Carpe Diem

July 13: Cassandra M’s Place (Spotlight)

July 14: History, Mystery and Faith

July 14: Sue Stinnett

July 15: KarensKrayons

July 16: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner

July 17: Petra’s Hope

July 17: Splashes of Joy

July 18: Blogging with Carol

July 19: Reviewing Novels Online

July 20: Faithfully Bookish

July 21: Jeanette’s Thoughts

July 22: Smiling Book Reviews

July 23: His Grace is Sufficient

July 24: Quiet Quilter

July 25: A Baker’s Perspective

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Melissa is giving away a wonderful package that includes a hand-crafted necklace. Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/9ec0