The Messenger by Siri Mitchell

About

Hannah Sunderland felt content in her embrace of the Quaker faith . . . until her twin brother joined the Colonial cause and ended up in jail. She longs to bring some measure of comfort to him in the squalid prison, but her faith forbids it. The Friends believe that they are not to take sides, not to take up arms. She is not allowed to visit him, even if she were able to secure a pass.

Jeremiah Jones, a Colonial spy, needs access to the jail to help rescue men important to the cause. Upon meeting Hannah, a plan begins to develop. Who would suspect a pious Quaker visiting a loved one?

But Jeremiah is unprepared for Hannah, for her determination to do right, to not lie. How can one be a spy and not lie? Hannah, in turn, is surprised by Jeremiah…for the way he forces her to confront her own beliefs, for the sensitivity and concern that he shows her despite the wounds he still carries.

In a time of war, can two unlikely heroes find the courage to act?

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THE AUTHOR

1. 

   Siri Mitchell

   Siri Mitchell has written nearly a dozen novels, three of which were named Christy Award finalists. A graduate of the University of Washington with a business degree, she has worked in many levels of government and lived on three continents. She and her family…

   Continue reading about Siri Mitchell

   MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

   Hannah’s brother is in jail and she can’t help him, according to their Quaker faith, but what does she do. He’s her brother after all. Then comes Jeremiah, a Colonists spy. When he meets Hannah her realizes she can be a lot if help to him in releasing the guys from jail but she has always been taught to do right, not lie, so how can she do this?

   This is a very interesting book. It has characters from the Quaker faith which o know nothing about. And I don’t think I want to know, I did find it interesting when Hannah’s faith was questioned, as well as her response. Author Siri Mitchell does an awesome job with creating characters that are believable and unique. I really liked Jeremiah and Hannah. They worked well together and they seemed to fit together, they were good for each other. There was a lot of tension at times, especially fr ok m the Quakers. And many of the character showed struggling as they we through difficult times. This is a Revolutionary War story, and I know many love reading stories about the war. If this is something you enjoy, I encourage you to pic up a copy of this book!

   A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Other Reviews

This story of a strong-minded young Quaker woman and a quiet, reserved tavern owner will keep you turning the pages with anticipation. Alternating between these two narrators – Hannah Sunderland and Jeremiah Jones – this richly detailed, exciting story moves quickly through the action, and each chapter leaves you wanting to read another.

Set in British-occupied Philadelphia in 1778, this story reveals some unlikely heroes willing to risk their lives to do what is right for the patriots of the Revolutionary War. When Hannah’s twin brother ends up in jail, charged as a rebel against Britain, she is torn between following her religion, which strictly forbids getting involved in anything political, and giving in to her heart’s pull to care for her beloved brother. Jeremiah, a reluctant spy for the Colonists, finds that he needs Hannah’s help in a plot to rescue men from the same jail, so they agree to form an unlikely alliance.

As they begin to secretly work together, both struggle with internal conflicts of their own. Hannah’s involvement in this plan goes against her religious beliefs; while Jeremiah’s past wounds continue to trouble his mind and heart. Being strong-willed and determined, each begins to challenge the other to look at the world in new ways and evaluate what really matters to them. A well-written, enthralling historical novel, The Messenger will not disappoint.

Aimee Rasmussen

Portland Book Review, Aug 6, 2012

“Pros: Isn’t scared to give gritty details about this period of history; heavily researched; gentle and not overbearing romance and spiritual details; realistic protagonists

“Cons: Ending is rather abrupt and left me wanting more

“Our Review: 4.5 / 5 – Excellent

“Quaker Hannah Sunderland has strictly followed her faith’s decision to avoid taking sides or arms in the Revolutionary War, even when it means that her family are forced from their home when it is commandeered by the army. But when news reaches her that her twin brother, who joined to Colonial cause, is in prison, she cannot ignore his needs. Her desire to help her brother brings her into contact with Colonial spy, Jeremiah Jones, a war veteran who lost his arm in the Seven Years War. They couldn’t be more dissimilar in their beliefs and lifestyles, but the common ground of needing access to the local prison–for personal and political reasons–binds them together. Hannah soon finds herself acting as a spy and attempting to stage an escape from the prison, but must keep her actions secret so that she doesn’t upset her fellow Quakers. But no one can ignore the amount of time she is spending with Jeremiah, and even Hannah cannot claim that theirs is only a business arrangement. As Hannah becomes more involved in the Colonial cause and is made aware of the dire conditions that the soldiers are living in, she cannot help but think that those of her faith have made a mistake in choosing to ignore the needs of these men. Can she reconcile her Quaker faith with her desire to help her brother and his fellow soldiers?

“Recently I heard that popular Amish fiction author Suzanne Woods Fisher would be writing a historical series about the Quakers of Nantucket. In light of this discovery, and the recent release a romantic novella collection from Barbour, entitled Quakers of New Garden, I couldn’t help but wonder whether the Quakers would soon to be joining the quaint tales of Amish, Mennonites and Shakers (although the latter aren’t particularly quaint, in my opinion) that have become so popular in the last few years. Siri Mitchell’s novel does not join the ranks of these stories. The best way to describe The Messenger is to say that it’s a gritty historical novel; it does not shy away from the uncomfortable details of life in Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War, and doesn’t attempt to gloss over any unsavoury details that wouldn’t usually appear in a Christian historical romance. There’s nothing inappropriate or particularly graphic, but if you prefer your historical novels to present the brighter side of life, then perhaps a novel about a Quaker woman breaking soldiers out of the squalor and filth of a war prison isn’t the novel for you.

“The history in this book felt incredibly real, and I wasn’t surprised to read in the author’s note at the end of the novel that many of the events in The Messenger were based on true stories. I’ve always preferred my historical novels to be enriched by their historical detail, rather than peppered with a few brief references to historical-sounding items or clothing, but I’m also the first to admit that it’s hard to get the right blend of story-telling and history into a novel. On the one hand, if you focus too much on the plot, you risk ending up with a story which could honestly be set in any time period if it weren’t for a few references to chamber pots and a war gone by; on the other hand, you could alienate readers by overpowering your story with unnecessary details and retelling of contemporary events that mean absolutely nothing to the non-historian. Siri does it just right, intertwining the essential historical details with Hannah’s spiritual struggles and her budding relationship with Jeremiah. The story and its historical period naturally can’t be separated, but the details never come across as a history lesson either.

“Prior to reading The Messenger, I read a review from a friend who mentioned that the book didn’t have quite enough romance to satisfy them. Everyone has different levels of romance that they hope for in a novel, and for me, it often depends on who the characters are and what seems appropriate for their stage in life or the period they live in. I really didn’t know what to expect from a Quaker and a crippled war veteran who runs a pub, although I can assure you that I probably couldn’t have come up with a more unlikely couple if I’d tried. Ultimately, I thought that this novel had just the right amount of romance in it. Considering how reserved and standoffish Hannah could be, and Jeremiah’s insecurities about his ability to appeal to a woman in spite of his missing arm, the gentle growth of their relationship seemed entirely appropriate. This isn’t a novel full of passion and swooning, but there were some really touching scenes that showed how the characters had grown to care for each other without the need for any physical declarations of their love for each other. The development of Hannah’s faith was similarly displayed, never overtly preaching at the reader and gently intertwining her questions about her beliefs with the plot of the novel in a way that seemed entirely relevant.

“I recently read an online interview with Siri in which she stated that she likes to take a specific time period or historical event that people claim they’d never want to read a about, and write a compelling novel to convince them otherwise. Honestly, I never would have imagined a novel about a Quaker spy during the Revolutionary War, but she pulls it off. I can’t wait to see what Siri comes up with next. Ultimately, my only slight disappointment with The Messenger was in the ending. The book really sped up towards the conclusion, which made the open ending seem all the more abrupt. I turned the page expecting another chapter or at least an epilogue and felt a bit frustrated that the ending really was so open. It was optimistic, and not in an unrealistic manner considering all that the protagonists had been through, but ultimately it was up to the reader to decide where Hannah and Jeremiah’s relationship would go and what was going to happen to them next. While part of me wants to commend Siri for bravely giving her readers such an open ending, another part of me was just a little bit frustrated that the conclusion was so inconclusive.

“Coming into the genre of Christian fiction a bit late in the day, I’ve sort of dived head first into the plethora of historical and Amish romance novels, grabbing wildly and often missing out on some of the genre’s best authors. When I finished this novel I found myself wondering how I could have been reading Christian historical fiction for two years and not yet discovered Siri Mitchell. The Messenger is an example of all that is good about this genre, and makes me proud to say that I endorse Christian novels. Believable characters, realistic spiritual journeys, heavily researched historical detail and a gentle and understated romance make The Messenger a novel I highly recommend to historical fiction fans.”
–Rachael Ropper, Christian Manifesto

“British forces have occupied Philadelphia, and Colonel Beckwith takes the liberty of occupying Hannah Sunderland’s home. The Sunderlands are Friends (Quakers), but their declaration of neutrality carries no weight with him–especially when the Colonel learns that Hannah’s twin brother has just been jailed after joining the rebels. Although Hannah’s parents abid the Friends’ plicy, Hannah is determined to somehow, secretly visit Robert in jail. This sets her on an extremely dangerous path, as her only chance of success is to get involved with the rebels herself. The suspense is immense, concerning both Hannah’s physical safety and whether she’ll compromise her religious beliefs. An author’s note provides the story’s historical foundation, and in another addendum she explains the Friends’ background and beliefs, plus insight into their present state. She also suggests questions for a discussion group. This engrossing novel is educational as well as a great story. Rating: 4+”
–DKW, Libraries Alive, Summer 2012

Home on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand

Home on Huckleberry Hill

Review Promo Blast 

ABOUT THIS BOOK 

Huckleberry Hill, Wisconsin’s irrepressible eighty-something matchmakers Anna and Felty Helmuth are at it again. And this time they’re willing to rough it to get the job done . . .

 

 
Mary Anne Neuenschwander knows she should be content with what Gotte has given her. She has a comfortable house, a fruitful farm, and a good, steady husband. But after nearly six years of marriage, she still longs for a baby. Yet her husband, Jethro, seems to care more about fishing than about his wife. Unable to bear Jethro’s indifference, Mary Anne moves into a tent in the woods where he won’t have to be bothered. But when her mammi and dawdi find out what she’s done, they’ll stop at nothing—including a little camping trip of their own—to help save their granddaughter’s marriage . . .
 
Jethro’s greatest blessing is his beloved wife, Mary Anne. Nothing else in his life has turned out anywhere near the way he expected. Rather than burden Mary Anne with his disappointment, he shields her by spending less and less time at home and more time on the river. But when he finds that she’s moved out, he’s shocked. What will people think? What is Mary Anne thinking? And what clever plans are her grandparents hatching?. . .

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

What a pleasure to return to Huckleberry Hill and my favorite matchmaking couple, Anna and Felty Helmuth. This time it is a little different with this duo. Instead of helping one of their grandchildren find love, this adorable couple helps one an already married granddaughter with her marriage. And they had to do a little roughing it in order to help.

I love this Huckleberry Hill Series by Jennifer Beckstrand. Each book keeps getting better and better. The story here is a bit of a clever twist on the way Mary Anne leaves her husband. It ends up involving the whole family, and yes, Anna and Felty was right there with them. And poor Jethro has the shock of his life. With a group of the best characters around, this beautifully written story with give you hours if entertainment and enjoyment. The entire book is just plain fun! It is impossible no to laugh at the humor throughout the story, especially coming from Anna and Felty. This couple is hilarious! I highly recommend that you check out Home on Huckleberry Hill, as well as the other books in this series, and join Anna and Felty as they help out their grandchildren. You never know who will be the next one on Anna’s list! I hope you love them as well as I did!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Jennifer Beckstrand is the two-time RITA-nominated, #1 Amazon bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, The Honeybee Sisters series, and The Petersheim Brothers series for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer and Home on Huckleberry Hill were both nominated for the coveted RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America. Jennifer has always been drawn to the strong faith and the enduring family ties of the Plain people and loves writing about the antics of Anna and Felty Helmuth, the Honeybee sisters’ aendi Bitsy, and Alfie and Benji Petersheim. Jennifer has written twenty-two Amish romances, a historical Western, and the nonfiction book, Big Ideas. Jennifer is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Agency. She and her husband have been married for thirty-five years, and she has six children and eight adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.

Social Media Link

Website: http://www.jenniferbeckstrand.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniferbeckstrandfans

Twitter: @JenniferBeckst1

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jennifergbeckst/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Jennifer-Beckstrand/e/B0073GHCOG/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1488910908&sr=8-2-ent

Instagram: j.beckstrand

Bookbub: @JenniferBeckstrand https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jennifer-beckstrand

Purchase Link

https://amzn.to/3aFrepp

Mister B by A. Lynn Byk

ABOUT THIS BOOK 

This is the #1 Best Selling, Pinnacle Award Recipients

Mister B’s jaunty calculating rhythm offers timely subject matter for adult children caring for parents and grandparents. With middle-age couched between quirky days and minutes of kindness, MISTER B’s confessions roll tide from the earliest days of aerospace engineering in Alabama through World War II and the Cold War secrecy. So, how will life unfold when a chauffeur-cook decides to move into the home of this self-centered, 98-Year-Old Rocket Scientist… will she really lend aid?

Mister B is a book that spins Americana like cotton candy. He could care less about being politically correct. That’s not Mr. B’s style. But, it seems his plan is to live forever.

For curiosity seekers of aerospace and structural science, for story lovers of the Greatest Generation and World War II, for family members caring for aging parents… Mister B is a treasure worth unearthing. Lacking education, a child of Polish immigrant parents, Joseph Byk determined to get educated and use what he learned to design flying machines. If you liked the movie, Imagine That, you’ll love this book.

How did Mister B pull himself up by his bootstraps in the 1930s and 1940s? This much is true, that the old’ man views history as his current state, telling all he can manage to repeat, while his new companions embark to redesign his dry acre into a flowering conversation piece where mushroom collecting. The unlikely companions eventually discover why they each still matter.

Joseph Byk was born in 1916, the Woonsocket, Rhode Island son of Polish immigrants. From the disadvantage of rope-tied, baggy pants poverty, Mister B becomes a man whose search for meaning defies gravity as much as his work on the 1930s new flight trainers and spacecraft do. How does he do it?

This instructive and humorous aerospace memoir, Mister B, offers biographical tender family stories, irony, and historic photographs to make a disgruntled reader furiously happy. It can be found in the grumpy old men’s section at your local bookstore…aging older men.

PRAISE FOR MISTER B:

“A wonderful book, brimming with humor and spirituality. The characters are lovingly drawn and Byk provides her readers with a day-by-day recounting of how her life intersects with the indefatigable Mister B, whose memory seems almost photographic even at the age of 98! The book is enlivened by photographs from early-to-middle twentieth century America. A very worthwhile multi-generational read.” -Jan Kalickion

“Byk fully constructs Mr. B, from the Rhode Island coastal awe in his voice to his penchant for mustard on peeled egg. In these small, perfectly executed moments, Byk brings her fascinating family to life for readers with warm and genuinely funny wit…” – KIRKUS REVIEW

A jaunty & terrific confessional of unusual love. If you liked Driving With Miss Daisy, or No Highway in the Sky, Mister B’s survival tactics may also help you stay above the curve. – Verified Reader

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

This is a true story if a daughter in law and her relationship with her father in law, Mister B. The name given to him by his wife still stuck with him, even after her death. I find it interesting that they book is written more like a journal or diary, with dates of each entries posted. Mister B was a realkt good storyteller, therefore there was a lot to write about in this journal. Being a little stubborn, Mister B insisted on staying in his own home as long as he could. I mean, a man in his 90’s that can fend for himself was something to be proud of.

The author does a fine job of relaying through her writings the journey she and her husband go through the steps of caring for the father-in-law. How they sold their houses, the issues good and bad happening during the ordeal. Sometimes I found the author a bit whiny about things she couldn’t do a thing about, or things that didn’t concern her. And she was a bit annoying and boring at time, and it was difficult to keep reading. But I really like the old man, I enjoyed his conversations, his humor and his not so humorous times.

All in all this is a nice book to read. If you like reading true stories, and memoirs, you will enjoy Mister B’s story. Its a book you can refer back to, a book that can be read at different times. You don’t really have to read it all at once.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Mister B is a retired WWII, and cold war stress physicist for Martin Company, Lockheed Martin, NASA, and the Department of Defense.

Co-Author, Lynn Byk is a pen name. Her past writing resume includes being a Denver music critic, a paralegal, and a poet. Writing with an edge of cynicism with a soft middle of one part sadness, two-parts curiosity, she chronicles how it came to be that Mister B’s power to entice by goodwill, facts, and figures becomes a love language. BYK is honored to be the Readers’ Favorite Silver Medalist recipient in the category of Christian Living (2018). She is a compassionate and entertaining storyteller as well as a diligent investigator.

“Byk fully constructs Mr. B, from the Rhode Island coastal awe in his voice to his penchant for mustard on peeled egg. In these small, perfectly executed moments, Byk brings her fascinating family to life for readers with warm and genuinely funny wit…” – KIRKUS REVIEW

Ranger to the Rescue by Renae Brumbaugh Green

About the Book

Book:  Ranger to the Rescue

Author: Renae Brumbaugh Green

Genre:  Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: April 14, 2020

Amelia Cooper has sworn off lawmen for good.

Now any man who wants to claim the hand of the intrepid reporter had better have a safe job. Like attorney Evan Covington. Amelia is thrilled when the handsome lawyer comes courting. But when the town enlists him as a Texas Ranger, Amelia isn’t sure she can handle losing another man to the perils of keeping the peace.

Evan never expected his temporary appointment to sink his relationship with Amelia. Or to instantly plunge them headlong into danger. But when Amelia and his sister are both kidnapped, the newly minted lawman must rescue them—if he’s to have any chance at love.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

This is my first book by Renae Brumbaugh Green, so I didn’t read the first book in this series to meet the characters there. But it was good as a stand alone for me. Amelia has lost her fiance a few years back, and another relationship was off limits, so she thought. But maybe it can happen again for her.

I really enjoyed this historical fiction set back in the late 1800’s It was actually set around the time my grandfather was born, which is exciting, but he wasn’t born in Texas! It’s still nice to think about grandaddy as a baby the time if this setting!

I also enjoyed getting to know the the early days of this Texas town. A lot of this story is surrounded by Amelia, and her distrust of the lawmen in town, and the fears she has about another relationship. I really like Evan, and was cheering on a relationship between the two. And as the two spends more time together, their feelings begin to change. And Amelia starts to realize more about God’s faithfulness,  forgiveness,  and the fact that she needs to let go of her feelings and give them to the Lord. I appreciate the way the author handles this. And I strongly encourage you to pick up a copy of this book and read it. If you e joy a good clean historical fiction, with faith woven in the characters everyday life, you will love this one!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

Click here for your copy!

 

 

About the Author

Renae Brumbaugh Green is a city-girl-turned-country-diva. She’s married to a handsome country boy named Rick, and she’s mom to four nearly-perfect, nearly-grown children, two rowdy dogs, and some ducks. They live in rural Texas where Renae wears overalls, western boots, and bubblegum pink nail polish. She’s a bestselling author of over 30 books, an award-winning humor columnist, and an online English teacher. In her free time, she can be found leaping tall buildings and rescuing kittens from trees. Or, she’d like to do those things, if she had free time.

 

More from Renae

Every once in a while, when writing a character, I become vaguely aware that in many respects, I am that character. In those moments, I also become aware that God is the author, and he’s teaching me something through this particular character’s journey. After all, it’s a lot easier to learn through someone else’s mistakes than to recognize our own mistakes – especially if that someone else is a fictional character.

Amelia’s journey is one of fear and anxiety, which is something I’ve dealt with a lot. Like Amelia, I appear composed and confident on the surface. Like Amelia, I’m often a mess on the inside, scared to death of what will come, scared to death of how it will all turn out.

While writing this story, while dealing with Amelia’s anxiety, I (all-knowing author that I am) wrote that fear is the opposite of hope. Fear is the belief that something bad will happen, while hope is the belief that something good will happen. The Bible tells us that ours is a God of hope (Romans 15:13). When we truly trust Him, we can let go of fear, knowing He has good things in store for us.

At one point in the book, Amelia has this revelation:

“And suddenly, it was as if a haze lifted and she saw herself clearly for the first time. She’d let herself be ruled by fear, and in so doing had confined herself and clipped her own wings.”

Those words, disguised on the page as Amelia’s thoughts, were actually my thoughts. I hope you enjoy Amelia’s journey. And as you read, I hope you’ll remember these words from Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

God bless, and happy reading!

—Renae Brumbaugh Green

Blog Stops

Genesis 5020, April 16

Inklings and notions, April 16

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 18

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 19

Texas Book-aholic, April 20

deb’s Book Review, April 20

Betti Mace, April 21

Books, Life, and Christ, April 21

For Him and My Family, April 22

Reading Is My SuperPower, April 23

Becka Jiménez’s FB, April 23

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, April 24

janicesbookreviews, April 24

Blossoms and Blessings, April 25

Vicky Sluiter, April 25

Bigreadersite, April 26

Hallie Reads, April 26

Pause for Tales, April 27

Splashes of Joy, April 27

For the Love of Literature, April 28

Daysong Reflections, April 29

Artistic Nobody, April 29 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Giveaway

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

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f8e1/ranger-to-the-rescue-celebration-tour-giveaway

Amish Country Murder by Mary Alford

About the Book

Book:  Amish Country Murder

Author: Mary Alford

Genre:  Amish Suspense

Release Date: March 1, 2020

An Amish woman targeted by a serial killer

Is the only living witness…

As the sole woman to escape the Dead of Night Killer, Catherine Fisher’s the key to catching him—if he doesn’t kill her first. Now it’s up to FBI agent Sutter Brenneman to protect her. But with her memory missing and all clues indicating the serial killer took her for very personal reasons, it’ll take everything Sutter has to keep her safe.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Amish Country Murder is a fast pace suspense that will keep you biting your nail for a few hours while you are reading it! No matter how much she tried, Catherine Fisher’s missing memory was no help in solving this crime before other are killed.

This Amish suspense will sure keep you on the edge of your seats. With so many twists and turns, the serial on the run, this is not your usual Amish story. Author Mary Alford creates a cast of characters that play their parts well as the tell the story. I enjoyed the way the plot unfolded, and the characters developed so well as I continued to read the story. This is a story I really enjoyed, even though I didn’t read the first book in this series.  For me it is certainly ok as a stand alone. If you enjoy a good suspense/mystery,  I encourage you to pick up a copy of Amish County Mystery. If you love a good clean Amish story, this one is for you. Try this one out for a few hours that will sure take  you on a journey that will keep you entertained and you will sure enjoy.

 

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

 

 

 

Click here for your copy!

 

 

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling Author, Mary Alford, loves giving her readers the unexpected. Her titles have appeared on the USA Today Bestselling List, Publisher’s Weekly bestselling list, and have finaled in the Daphne Du Maurier award of excellence in mystery, The Beverly, The Maggie, and The Selah Awards.

As a writer, Mary is an avid reader. She loves to cook, can’t face the day without coffee, and her three granddaughters are the apple of her eye. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two cats and one dog.

Mary is very active online and would love to connect with readers on Facebook and Twitter or any social platforms listed at www.maryalford.net.

 

More from Mary

Thank you for coming with me on this journey to the mountains of Montana, where the Amish Community of West Kootenai is nestled in the wide-open spaces of Big Sky Country, and a simple Amish way of life can be anything but. Especially when a serial killer is lurking nearby, waiting to take his next victim, and the clock is ticking.

Amish Country Murder is my second book set in the Amish Community of West Kootenai, Montana. My first book, Amish Country Kidnapping is available now at most book retailers.

As a reader, one of my favorite genres is Amish Suspense. There’s just something about a story that pits the simple and innocent Amish lifestyle with the dark and sometimes deadly world of a suspense. Good versus evil, so to speak.

When Catherine Fisher escapes the clutches of a serial killer, she can’t remember as single thing about her past before the monster took her.

FBI agent Sutter Brenneman has been working the Dead of Night Serial Killer case for a while. Catherine is his first living victim. Protecting Catherine and finding the killer before he strikes again is critical. Hiding out in Amish Country, Sutter is surrounded my memories of his own Amish past, rekindling old longings for the life lost to him. Is it possible to have it back? In the middle of a killer stalking their every move, Catherine and Sutter share many tender moments as their feelings for each other grow into love.

One of the things I love most about the Amish is their amazingly simple recipes that remind me of my childhood and the meals my mother used to prepare.

During one meal shared with an Amish couple, Catherine and Sutter enjoy sweet potato croquettes with meat loaf. Sweet potato croquettes are a simple side dish that is delicious and easy to prepare. I thought I’d share this recipe with you here.

AMISH SWEET POTATO CROQUETTES

• 1 pt. of mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 tblsp. butter
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tblsp. sugar
• 1 egg white
• breadcrumbs
• marshmallows (optional)

Mash sweet potatoes very fine.  Add salt, sugar and melted butter to mashed sweet potatoes. Shape sweet potatoes into croquette rolls or patties.  Cool them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Remove from refrigerator and roll in breadcrumbs.  Dip them in the slightly beaten egg white, and then into the crumbs again. Bake in a shallow, greased baking dish for 20 minutes, at a temperature of 400 degrees F.  For an even sweeter version of this dish, you can place a marshmallow in the center of each (make sure it is covered completely by the potato mixture).

I so hope you enjoy this recipe and Amish Country Murder. And stay tuned for my next Amish Suspense set in West Kootenai, coming in November of this year.

 

Blog Stops

Batya’s Bits, April 14

Genesis 5020, April 14

The Avid Reader, April 15

Maureen’s Musings, April 15

Betti Mace, April 16

janicesbookreviews, April 16

She Lives To Read, April 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 17

Texas Book-aholic, April 18

deb’s Book Review, April 18

Inklings and notions, April 19

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 19

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 20

For Him and My Family, April 21

Older & Smarter?, April 21

My Devotional Thoughts, April 22

For the Love of Literature, April 22

Artistic Nobody, April 23 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Pause for Tales, April 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 24

Hallie Reads, April 24

Because I said so and other as adventures in parenting, April 25

Emily Yager, April 25

SPLASHES of Joy, April 26

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, April 26

Blossoms and Blessings, April 27

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Mary is giving away the grand prize package of a Lavender Spa 10-piece Gift Basket with Tote, and a print copy of Amish Country Murder!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f8df/amish-country-murder-celebration-tour-giveaway

The House at the End of the Moor by Michelle Griep

About the Book

Book:  House at the End of the Moor

Author: Michelle Griep

Genre:  Christian Historical

Release Date: April 2020

An Opulent London Opera Star Escapes to the Rugged Landscape of the English Moors

Opera star Maggie Lee escapes her opulent lifestyle when threatened by a powerful politician who aims to ruin her life. She runs off to the wilds of the moors to live in anonymity. All that changes the day she discovers a half-dead man near her house. Escaped convict Oliver Ward is on the run to prove his innocence, until he gets hurt and is taken in by Maggie. He discovers some jewels in her possession—the very same jewels that got him convicted. Together they hatch a plan to return the jewels, clearing Oliver’s name and hopefully maintaining Maggie’s anonymity.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Finding a half dead body that was really, in the middle of nowhere. No one around. Not quite sure what I would do. Call the police probably. But that wasn’t really a choice here in this story. The only choice was to bring him home, and take care if him.

Michelle Griep is just amazing in telling her stories! In this interesting and intriguing story, we meet Maggie, who is hiding from a life as a opera singer. Imagine her surprise when a half dead man shows up near her home. Oliver Ward is running as an escape convict. As these two characters come together to tell the truth of Oliver’s story, this truly took me on a journey that would keep me turning the pages, and one the edge if my seat. I didn’t want to put this book down because I couldn’t wait to find out the ending!

To me, these characters had to grow on me. It took me a little while to figure out who they were and what their purpose was. I found it heart wrentching the way prisoners were treated back in that era. Officer Barrow really showed his evil self as he ran the trail looking for Ward, and he was definitely a character I didn’t like at all. But in saying that, I will say that Ms. Griep so professionally crafts gripping characters that develops so well as the story unfolds. There is so much in this story, so many dangerous secrets to surface, so many emotions flying everywhere. I appreciate the faith and forgiveness, as well as all of the references to the Lord in this story. This author does this so tastefully, not sounding do pushy and preachy to someone who doesn’t know the Lord. And in the end, Michelle Griep weaves all the different elements of this story together together to give a wonderfully created ending to this story.

 

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

 

 

Click here for your copy!

 

 

About the Author

Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the Christy Award-winning author of historical romances: A Tale of Two Hearts, The Captured Bride, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, and Gallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. If you’d like to keep up with her escapades, find her at http://www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

 

 More from Michelle

What comes to mind when you hear the word moor? For some, images of Jane Eyrespring to life. For others, The Hound of the Baskervilles starts barking. But for most, it’s a big fat goose egg. The fact is that most Americans don’t have a clue what a moor is, but never fear, my friend…after you read the next few paragraphs, you’ll never again go blank-minded when you hear the word moor.

Last summer I skipped across the pond and tromped around Dartmoor with my daughter and husband. What an awesome experience. I learned first-hand just how windy this vast stretch of land can be, for that’s really what a moor is at heart: a vast stretch of land. Webster’s defines it as an expanse of open rolling infertile land. Sounds rather desolate, eh? Yeah. Kind of. But it’s oh so much more.

In spring and summer, green does abound. Gorse bushes. Scrubby grasses. Lambs and sheep and goats. All these animals roam free so there are trails worn into the dirt that you can hike along. But I hear you…where could you possibly go if there’s nothing besides some farm animals roaming around the place?

 

You could hike to a tor, which is a “high, craggy hill.” Some of them can be a little treacherous to climb, but sweet mercy, what a view! The earth stretches out like a green and brown quilt. As I hiked that day last spring, whispers in the wind inspired me to wonder a lot of what-ifs, and those what-ifs came together in a story of intrigue and betrayal.

What would you do if you found a half-dead man bleeding in the middle of nowhere? Find out what heroine Maggie Lee does in The House at the End of the Moor.

Blog Stops

Batya’s Bits, April 18

The Avid Reader, April 18

Life of Literature, April 18

The Power of Words, April 18

For Him and My Family, April 19

Texas Book-aholic, April 19

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, April 19

Among the Reads, April 20

My Devotional Thoughts, April 20

As He Leads is Joy, April 20

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 20

Just the Write Escape, April 21

Reflections From My Bookshelves, April 21

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, April 21

Where Faith and Books Meet, April 22

deb’s Book Review, April 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 22

Inklings and notions, April 22

Remembrancy, April 23

Hookmeinabook, April 23

Christian Bookaholic, April 23

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 24

Britt Reads Fiction, April 24

Emily Yager, April 24

Betti Mace, April 25

Stories By Gina, April 25

Adventures of a Traveling Wife, April 25

Blossoms and Blessings, April 25

Splashes of Joy, April 26

Simple Harvest Reads, April 26 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Vicky Sluiter, April 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 26

Blessed & Bookish, April 27

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 27

Pause for Tales, April 27

Through the Fire Blogs, April 28

Hallie Reads, April 28

Faery Tales Are Real, April 28

To Everything There Is A Season, April 28

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 29

Bigreadersite, April 29

Older & Smarter?, April 29

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 29

Genesis 5020, April 30

Read Review Rejoice, April 30

By The Book, April 30

For the Love of Literature, April 30

All-of-a-kind Mom, May 1

Bookishly Beverly, May 1

Daysong Reflections, May 1

Artistic Nobody, May 1 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

 Giveaway

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

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f8e2/the-house-at-the-end-of-the-moor-celebration-tour-giveaway

Grand Finale for Land of Twilight Trilogy by Charmayne Hafen

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you’ll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch – Author Interview

What inspired you to write the Land of Twilight Trilogy?

I am a child of divorce and know how difficult it can be to navigate the issues that accompany divorce. I also know that my faith in Jesus is what brought me through severely difficult times in my childhood. It is for these two reasons that I wrote this trilogy. I want kids to know they are not alone and that they have an ever-present Help to rely on and rest in.

Locks, Hooks and Books – Excerpt from Journey to Twilight

Moving to Phoenix, Arizona felt like the worst thing that could happen to Lorna. Leaving her home and friends in California was the hardest thing she’d ever done in her life.

Rockin’ Book Reviews – Reviews

“This story has some fun mythical characters and Twilight is an interesting place. I like the friendship that built between Sam and Lorna. I really like the illustrations. They are awesome. . . . The characters are well-developed and it’s easy to feel their emotions. . . . I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a great adventure.”

Hearts & Scribbles – Excerpt from Journey to Twilight

Lorna looked down and saw that the ground was as blue as a sky on a clear day. She grabbed a clump of grass and dirt. It felt like grass and dirt, but the color was all wrong. And the sky? The sky was green like the color of summer grass. Looking at the sky was a lot like looking at the world through a green glass bottle.

Remembrancy – Excerpt from Return to Twilight

Jenny turned her attention to a pack of six chocolate doughnuts sitting on the shelf in front of them. Flicking her hair from her face, she stared back at Lorna. “I dare you to put those doughnuts in your bag and walk out.”

Lorna frowned. “What do you mean…without paying?”

Splashes of Joy – Excerpt from Return to Twilight

Lorna sighed. Warm tears slid down the sides of her face. She felt lonelier than she had ever felt in her entire life. Sam knew she’d mistreated him. He was no longer her friend, and now Jenny was ignoring her, too. Ally hadn’t written or called her in over a month. She was probably loving her new town and school. She’d probably long forgotten Lorna wasting away in Phoenix. She had no one.

Wishful Endings – Excerpt from Return to Twilight

Lorna wiped her eyes with her free hand and smiled at her grandmother. “You can’t always be with me, grandma. I haven’t seen you for so long!”

Grandma Nila smiled and shook her head. “I’m not talking about me, Lorna Loon, although I will be with you as much as I can. I’m talking about the Savior. He is always with you, not just in places like this.”

Christy’s Cozy Corners – Excerpt from Trouble in Twilight

Stealing a quick, concerned glance at Sam, Lorna asked, “What are you talking about, Trix? What is the Whatever?” Lorna made quote marks with her fingers.

“The Land of Twilight is dying. The Whatever has taken over and Twilight is dying!”

Baroness’ Book Trove – Reviews

“It was so good from the first moment Lorna is introduced to Sam being introduced. I loved every moment of it. Ms. Hafen did a great job of spinning this tale. I am giving this novel five stars and recommend it to any parents that think that their child would love this book.”

Hallie Reads – Excerpt from Trouble in Twilight

“What did you mean when you said that the Whatever is invisible to those who have no faith? Faith for what?” Lorna hung on to this question as if it where the last one she would ever get to ask. She couldn’t get it out of her mind.

Teatime and Books – Reviews

“Each book is filled with lively characters that boys and girls will be able to relate to, they also go through many of these situations that our youth today are going through . . . Truly inspirational books for young kids today! I would highly recommend this whole series!”

Reading Is My SuperPower from Trouble in Twilight

“That’s Socrates! Oh my gosh! I can’t believe this.” Lorna was more excited than she’d been in days. Things were getting good. Would a mystery be revealed in the darkness?

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post…

Journey to Twilight
(Land of Twilight Trilogy #1)
By Charmayne Hafen
Middle Grade Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 113 Pages
November 1st 2019 by Capture Books

Sam and Lorna’s bike challenge becomes far more than a neighborhood race in this action-adventure fantasy for intermediate grades.

Riding over a cairn at sunset, Lorna surfaces in Twilight, where she is given three impossible tasks to complete before her heart’s desire is granted.

Story Line: Avid sixth-grade mountain biker, Lorna Wilson, moves to Crestwood, Arizona, after her parents’ divorce. Unpacking, Lorna seeks a way to fit into the new crowd when a girl named Ally knocks on her front door.

Splashing in the pool at Ally’s house, Lorna learns about the bike challenge created by a scar-faced neighborhood legend, Samuel Black. She hears herself boasting that she can take on Samuel Black in his own race and win. Lorna’s words quickly come back to bite her.

Although none of the kids will root for the new girl, an ancient cairn opens to the Land of Twilight giving Lorna an opportunity to win anything her heart desires.

Illustrations are by award-winning artist, Brianna Osaseri.

Thematic: Time travel ages 9-12; action-adventure; Female protagonist survives parents’ divorce; confidence and friendship; conflict opens to opportunity; Celtic; Jamaican; Multi-racial; coming of age fantasy for pre-teens with some paranormal, magical or mystical places and events. Intermediate grades. Book 1 in a series.

(Affiliate links included.)
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Target | Book Depository | Kobo

Return to Twilight
(Land of Twilight Trilogy #2)
By Charmayne Hafen
Middle Grade Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 142 Pages
January 21st 2020 by Capture Books

In this second book of the Land of Twilight Trilogy, seventh-grade Lorna struggles with the meaning of friend like, how to be one, how to choose one, and how to keep one.

Lorna rejects her dad, deceives her mom, and turns her back on the ethereal Land of Twilight. She even turns on her best friend, Sam, in favor of gaining the attention of a new girl in the neighborhood, Jenny. Lorna sheds her own social norms, stealing and hiding as she pretends to enjoy her second year in challenging Crestwood, Arizona.

It has to be Sam’s turn to do what true friends do.

An exciting read for readers ages 9-13 who enjoy Celtic mythology, magic, and busting the dust of the Arizona desert with your best friend.

(Affiliate links included.)
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

Trouble to Twilight
(Land of Twilight Trilogy #3)
By Charmayne Hafen
Middle Grade Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 129 Pages
April 1st 2020 by Capture Books

How can the most colorful world in the universe turn hapless and gray?! That’s what mystifies both Sam and Lorna.

Trix falls from the Land of Twilight, showing up at the discarded camper shell in the Arizona desert where Sam and Lorna are making their secret plans.

Trix and Melvin focus on the Land of Realtime because the lives of both Lorna and Sam have interwoven with the Land of Twilight. How can the four unravel themselves?

A tragic accident forces Sam to again realize that life can change suddenly. Now he and Lorna must rethink what in life is most important to them.

History, philosophy, and faith enter the scene through interdimensional time travel. The Land of Twilight Trilogy is filled with adventure and supernatural elements for readers ages 9-12. With its relatable characters and fast-moving plot, Sam and Lorna discover their priorities. As Sam faces unbearable consequences, he learns the bonds of true friendship and personal truth are real.

Readers are given not only an interesting story filled with allegorical elements about the meaning of faith, but are also challenged to think about their own ideas of reality and meaning.

(Affiliate links included.)
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

About the Author

Charmayne Hafen has been writing since she was nine years old when she kept a private journal documenting love and loss in her fourth-grade class. In 2016, she published her first book, The Land Of Twilight, which was selected as a winner in the category of Juvenile Fiction in the Winter 2017 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards. Using knowledge and skills acquired from her MA in counseling, Charmayne wrote The Land Of Twilight series to help kids navigate the sometimes difficult waters of divorce. Her love of Celtic mythology also influenced the book. The first book in the series has been republished under a new title called Journey To Twilight which will be available November 1, 2019. There will be two more books in the series coming out early [2020].

Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive an ebook of Journey to Twilight and a $50 Amazon eGift Card
Open internationally
Ends April 30, 2020

ENTER HERE

 

A Change of Heart by Molly Jebber

Synopsis:

A modern new century brings a young Amish woman an unexpected new life—and a chance to discover love’s true way home…

Ohio, 1899. Soft-spoken midwife Becca Yost lived by her Amish faith’s strict rules—until her fiancé jilted her before their entire community. She’s never been away from home, but the bustling Englischer town of Massillon, Ohio, is a welcome unexpected refuge. Especially when she goes to work for Dr. Matt Carrington, who shares her passion for healing those in need. His outgoing spirit and gentle strength show Becca a surprising new world of choices—and irresistible love. But there is one formidable obstacle: Matt’s wealthy mother is determined her son will marry a society woman.

With her newfound resolve challenged, Becca decides that she and Matt must not be destined for each other after all. She accepts that she will have to forge a life alone—until a wrenching crisis and life-changing revelations teach her that true faith lies in all things, especially impossible second chances. . .

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

This Amish story takes us back to the late 1800s/early 1900s, and to me, the Amish faith was much stricter than today. When Becca Yost’s fiance dumped her, she left her home and Amish faith and moved in with her sister, in an Englisher town. This would change her life forever. Would it be for the good or bad?

As always, Molly Jebber gives her readers a stunning story to read about the Amish people. I always like her stories because they are Amish with a bit of twists and turns. I enjoyed the historical era, my grandfather was born in 1880, and I always enjoy books set in his earlier years. I really like Becca and felt so bad for the humiliation she went through. I enjoyed her sweet quiet spirit but was glad she broke out and got the job working for a Dr. Bringing on even more interesting details of this story. Though it took me a little while getting into this story, it ended up being a really nice sweet read. If you enjoy a nice clean Amish read, or maybe you haven’t tried the Amish genre, this would be a good book for you to read and enjoy. And its a pretty fast read. One you can read in a few hours.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

About Molly Jebber

Molly Jebber writes Amish Historical Romances. Her books have been featured in USA Today’s HEA column, and made Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Ten List. She’s on Romance Writers of America’s Honor Roll and she receives rave reviews in numerous magazines and media across the country. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of American, Southwest Florida Writers Group, and RWA Faith, Hope, and Love.

She’s a touring speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, and a guest lecturer for conferences, libraries, women’s activity groups, Ohio State University and more. She speaks about Amish history and their traditions, writing, marketing, publishing, and about her books.

Her new Amish Charm Bakery Series has a whirlwind of intrigue, turmoil, and joy! Check out her full list on Amazon or her website at http://www.mollyjebber.com! Some are offered in large print-hardback and audiobook, along with print and eBook.

A bit about me . . . .

I was raised in a small town in Ohio. If you had blinked twice, you would’ve missed it. It’s grown by leaps and bounds. I’ve always found the Amish life interesting. I’ve enjoyed the many times I’ve visited their communities and learned about their lifestyle. Creating historical Amish characters and throwing them into difficult situations and joyous times has been challenging and fun. The greatest reward I’ve experienced in becoming an author is meeting wonderful people from all over the world who’ve been encouraging and supportive. I enjoy traveling and speaking for Women’s Christian Connection and telling my personal story, and speaking at libraries, conferences, women’s groups, community groups, and more about Amish lifestyles and traditions, my books, writing, publishing, and marketing. I love God, family, friends, and swimming, golf, walks on the beach, reading, and writing are fun. I say no to skydiving and onions!

Visit my website at http://www.mollyjebber.com and sign up for my newsletter for members only contests, giveaways and where I’ll be speaking!

One Hundred Valleys by Bonnie Leon

About the Book

Book:  One Hundred Valleys

Author: Bonnie Leon

Genre:  Historical Romance

Release Date: March 15, 2020

My Rating: 5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

After the death of her mother, Emmalin Hammond discovers she is not the heiress she’d always assumed she’d be. The revelation exposes her fiancé true intentions when he withdraws his marriage proposal, leaving Emmalin heartbroken and humiliated. When she discovers the father she believed to be dead is still alive and living in the Oregon Territory she decides it is time to meet the man who has been hidden from her all of her life.

Accompanied by her Uncle Jonathon she sets out for the Oregon Territory in search of answers and hoping for a renewed relationship with her father. When tragedy strikes, she confronts the terrifying challenge of completing her quest alone. Faced with few options, she entrusts her life to a mountain man named Jacob Landon who agrees to transport her to a small settlement in Southern Oregon called Deer Creek, a place also known as the Land of One Hundred Valleys.

Emmalin is not prepared for the hardships of life in the Oregon wilderness. Each day presents a new challenge. Newfound friends, including the reserved Jacob Landon, come alongside to help her adapt and she gradually finds her way. Yet, she feels out of place. Should she brave the arduous journey back to Philadelphia and the life she once knew or remain and hope for something better in the Oregon wilderness?

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

This is my first book by Author Bonnie Leon and I thoroughly enjoyed One Hundred Valley’s. And I adore the beautiful book cover. The characters in this story were carefully crafted to play their perfect parts in the story. My heart ached for Emmalin because her loss was so great. And being a lady of means, she had to grow up fast when she decided to look for a father she never knew. Traveling in the late 1800’s was horrific, especially back in the hills and mountains of the Oregon Territory. And life was as hard once Emmalin arrived. 

 

It is clear that Ms. Leon does an amazing job of researching for this book. I love the vivid details of the journey from Philadelphia to Oregon, and the beautiful scenes in Deer Creek. I love Jacob and his quiet and caring spirit. But the fiance, who doesn’t deserve a name, was unbelievable. The good for nothing would do anything for money!! But you need them in every story, right, to make it interesting? I love this story and look forward to reading more from author Bonnie Leon.

This is a beautifully written book that anyone loving historical fiction would love to read. I highly recommend you check out One Hundred Valleys for your enjoyment.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Bonnie Leon is the author of twenty-two novels, including the recently released Return to the Misty Shore, the popular Alaskan Skies and bestselling The Journey of Eleven Moons. Bonnie’s books are being read internationally and she hears from readers in Australia, Europe, Poland, and even Africa. She enjoys speaking for women’s groups and mentoring up and coming authors.

Bonnie and her husband, Greg, live in Southern Oregon. They have three grown children and seven grandchildren.

 

More from Bonnie

Why this story?

In the spring of 1980 my husband and I, our two-year-old son, and our infant daughter left city life in Washington state and moved to Southern Oregon. We gave up our community of friends and family along with my husband’s reliable and well-paying job. Our friends thought we were crazy, but we were determined that Oregon was where we belonged. We were scared but not deterred.

I think the change in my own life as a young woman had a lot to do with why I wrote this story of Emmalin Hammond. To be sure, Emmalin’s level of difficulty and danger is distinctly different than mine, but there are similarities. We both experienced adventures, joy, and, yes, even danger.

Oregon has been my home for forty years now, and I am glad my husband and I made the decision to move here. We’ve had a good life in this wild and beautiful country. Sometimes I wonder about the women who made that choice during the nineteenth century. Emmalin set out on her harrowing journey to Oregon in the spring of 1855. Many who began that journey did not make it across the plains and desserts of America.

When I put down roots in Douglas County, Oregon I was thrilled to be here, but the changes weren’t all easy. The old farmhouse we lived in had more broken windows than intact ones. It was mouse infested. The plumbing needed major repair. And yet I loved it. The countryside was lush and green, and the rolling hillsides were dotted with farm animals, wildlife, and broad-limbed oak trees. There were wild blackberries sprawling along the farm’s fences and fresh fruit in our orchard. It looked much the same as the Oregon Emmalin discovered in my story, One Hundred Valleys.

I loved hard work and spent a lot of time splitting logs for our only heat source—a wood burning stove—felling trees on our new property, and working alongside my husband in our vegetable garden.

I had run-ins with things like poison oak and skunks, but that did not dampen my enthusiasm as a new Oregonian. I loved picking wild blackberries, fishing the high mountain lakes, hiking mountain trails, and fishing the North Umpqua river. I cherished those days as a farm wife and mother. Those were the best years of my life. I have never regretted our move to the beautiful land of one hundred valleys in Southern Oregon.

I am thankful for the early explorers who challenged the wilderness in the Oregon Territory more than a century ago. It is their courage and determination that made it possible for me and my family to live and thrive in this beautiful place.

Blog Stops

A Baker’s Perspective, April 15

Through the Lens of Scripture, April 15

Texas Book-aholic, April 16

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 16

Reading Is My SuperPower, April 16

For Him and My Family, April 17

Read Review Rejoice, April 17

Inklings and notions, April 18

Bigreadersite, April 18

Emily Yager, April 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 19

Lis Loves Reading, April 19

Stories By Gina, April 19

Betti Mace, April 20

Pause for Tales, April 20

My Devotional Thoughts, April 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 21

Splashes of Joy, April 21

deb’s Book Review, April 21

Simple Harvest Reads, April 22 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

To Everything There Is A Season, April 22

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 23

Worthy2Read, April 23

Daysong Reflections, April 23

Older & Smarter?, April 24

Through the Fire Blogs, April 24

Blossoms and Blessings, April 25

janicesbookreviews, April 25

For the Love of Literature, April 26

Vicky Sluiter, April 26

Mary Hake, April 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 27

Genesis 5020, April 27

Artistic Nobody, April 28 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

With a Joyful Noise, April 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Bonnie is giving away the grand prize package of a $15 Amazon Gift Card and Vintage Oregon myrtle wood porringer bowl!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f8e0/one-hundred-valleys-celebration-tour-giveaway

Journey to Twilight By Charmayne Hafen #LOTPrism

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

#LOTPrism

Journey to Twilight

(Land of Twilight Trilogy #1)

By Charmayne Hafen

Middle Grade Fantasy

Paperback & ebook, 113 Pages

November 1st 2019 by Capture Books

Sam and Lorna’s bike challenge becomes far more than a neighborhood race in this action-adventure fantasy for intermediate grades.

Riding over a cairn at sunset, Lorna surfaces in Twilight, where she is given three impossible tasks to complete before her heart’s desire is granted.

Story Line: Avid sixth-grade mountain biker, Lorna Wilson, moves to Crestwood, Arizona, after her parents’ divorce. Unpacking, Lorna seeks a way to fit into the new crowd when a girl named Ally knocks on her front door.

Splashing in the pool at Ally’s house, Lorna learns about the bike challenge created by a scar-faced neighborhood legend, Samuel Black. She hears herself boasting that she can take on Samuel Black in his own race and win. Lorna’s words quickly come back to bite her.

Although none of the kids will root for the new girl, an ancient cairn opens to the Land of Twilight giving Lorna an opportunity to win anything her heart desires.

Illustrations are by award-winning artist, Brianna Osaseri.

Thematic: Time travel ages 9-12; action-adventure; Female protagonist survives parents’ divorce; confidence and friendship; conflict opens to opportunity; Celtic; Jamaican; Multi-racial; coming of age fantasy for pre-teens with some paranormal, magical or mystical places and events. Intermediate grades. Book 1 in a series.

Excerpt from Book….Enjoy

From Return to Twilight:

“Lorna sighed. Warm tears slid down the sides of her face. She felt lonelier than she had ever felt in her entire life. Sam knew she’d mistreated him. He was no longer her friend, and now Jenny was ignoring her, too. Ally hadn’t written or called her in over a month. She was probably loving her new town and school. She’d probably long forgotten Lorna wasting away in Phoenix. She had no one.”

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Target | Book Depository | Kobo

Return to Twilight

(Land of Twilight Trilogy #2)

By Charmayne Hafen

Middle Grade Fantasy

Paperback & ebook, 142 Pages

January 21st 2020 by Capture Books

In this second book of the Land of Twilight Trilogy, seventh-grade Lorna struggles with the meaning of friend like, how to be one, how to choose one, and how to keep one.

Lorna rejects her dad, deceives her mom, and turns her back on the ethereal Land of Twilight. She even turns on her best friend, Sam, in favor of gaining the attention of a new girl in the neighborhood, Jenny. Lorna sheds her own social norms, stealing and hiding as she pretends to enjoy her second year in challenging Crestwood, Arizona.

It has to be Sam’s turn to do what true friends do.

An exciting read for readers ages 9-13 who enjoy Celtic mythology, magic, and busting the dust of the Arizona desert with your best friend.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

Trouble to Twilight

(Land of Twilight Trilogy #3)

By Charmayne Hafen

Middle Grade Fantasy

Paperback & ebook, 129 Pages

April 1st 2020 by Capture Books

How can the most colorful world in the universe turn hapless and gray?! That’s what mystifies both Sam and Lorna.

Trix falls from the Land of Twilight, showing up at the discarded camper shell in the Arizona desert where Sam and Lorna are making their secret plans.

Trix and Melvin focus on the Land of Realtime because the lives of both Lorna and Sam have interwoven with the Land of Twilight. How can the four unravel themselves?

A tragic accident forces Sam to again realize that life can change suddenly. Now he and Lorna must rethink what in life is most important to them.

History, philosophy, and faith enter the scene through interdimensional time travel. The Land of Twilight Trilogy is filled with adventure and supernatural elements for readers ages 9-12. With its relatable characters and fast-moving plot, Sam and Lorna discover their priorities. As Sam faces unbearable consequences, he learns the bonds of true friendship and personal truth are real.

Readers are given not only an interesting story filled with allegorical elements about the meaning of faith, but are also challenged to think about their own ideas of reality and meaning.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

About the Author

Charmayne Hafen has been writing since she was nine years old when she kept a private journal documenting love and loss in her fourth-grade class. In 2016, she published her first book, The Land Of Twilight, which was selected as a winner in the category of Juvenile Fiction in the Winter 2017 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards. Using knowledge and skills acquired from her MA in counseling, Charmayne wrote The Land Of Twilight series to help kids navigate the sometimes difficult waters of divorce. Her love of Celtic mythology also influenced the book. The first book in the series has been republished under a new title called Journey To Twilight which will be available November 1, 2019. There will be two more books in the series coming out early [2020].

Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive an ebook of Journey to Twilight and a $50 Amazon eGift Card

Open internationally

Ends April 30, 2020

ENTER HERE

 

The Joy of Falling by Lindsay Harrel

About the Book

Book:  The Joy of Falling

Author: Lindsay Harrel

Genre: Women’s Fiction

Release Date: April 14, 2020

My Rating 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Eva and Angela must learn to live again. One step at a time.

It has been fifteen months since Eva and Angela lost their thrill-seeking husbands in a scuba diving accident. Both women are trying to navigate their way through the grief, but neither one is making much progress. Angela is barely making ends meet, angry at her husband for leaving her to raise three children on her own. Meanwhile, Eva is stuck, unable to move forward after losing the love of her life and her source of inspiration.

But then Eva gets a life-changing phone call. Before Brent and Wes died, they had signed up for a race of a lifetime—an ultra-marathon in beautiful New Zealand. Eva begs Angela to run the race with her in their husbands’ place, and Angela finally agrees, hoping to finally understand her husband’s choices.

Training is exhausting, and the race is even more demanding. Their journey grows more complicated by the presence of two men—Marc is Brent’s best friend who is running the race with Eva and Angela, and Simon King is a writer who is covering their inspiring story. With every step, Eva and Angela must ask themselves questions that they haven’t had the courage to ask before. As the women literally put one foot in front of the other, they wonder: Is it possible to find their way forward in hope?

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Both Eva and Angela lost their husbands and both are trying to live again after such a loss. These ladies and completely different, connected only by the brothers they married, and a mother in law that loves both.

This is my first book by this author, and I will sure be looking for more from Lindsay Harrell. I slowly fell in love with these characters. It was hard at first because they were facing such a past, and trying to find their own way to grieve. I really liked the mother in law, she was full of wisdom because she has also lost a husband, and she lost her two sons at the same time. Sometimes I really was frustrated with Eva and Angela because they depended on they depended on her too much, instead of helping her through her grief, she had lost her husband and boys, after all.

The trip the New Zealand was interesting. There was a lot of friction between Eva and Angela. Angela did have a bad attitude, but Eva had her issues as well. There are so many things happening in this story, and you need to read the book to really get it all and enjoy it. The author does an amazing job of weaving everything going on and bring it to a nice close to end the story.

If you are a fan of contemporary fiction, and good, clean Christian fiction, you will love this story. It is sure a story of family, love, forgiveness, trusting God and second chances. I encourage you to check this one out. It is well worth the read.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Lindsay Harrel is a lifelong book nerd who lives in Arizona with her young family and two golden retrievers in serious need of training. She’s held a variety of writing and editing jobs over the years and now juggles stay-at-home mommyhood with writing novels. When she’s not writing or chasing after her children, Lindsay enjoys making a fool of herself at Zumba, curling up with anything by Jane Austen, and savoring sour candy one piece at a time. Connect with her at LindsayHarrel.com.

Read an Excerpt

Click here to read the first four chapters.

Blog Stops

The Power of Words, April 17

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, April 17

My Devotional Thoughts, April 17

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 18

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 18

Through the Fire Blogs, April 19

Remembrancy, April 19

Genesis 5020, April 20

Splashes of Joy, April 20

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, April 20

Read Review Rejoice, April 21

Hebrews 12 Endurance, April 21

Older & Smarter?, April 22

deb’s Book Review, April 22

Texas Book-aholic, April 23

janicesbookreviews, April 23

Inklings and notions, April 24

Hookmeinabook, April 24

For Him and My Family, April 25

Just a Your Average reviews, April 25

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 26

Hallie Reads, April 26

Reflections From My Bookshelves, April 27

CarpeDiem, April 27

Stories By Gina, April 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 29

The Becca Files, April 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 30

Bookishly Beverly, April 30

Spoken from the Heart, April 30

 

The Thorn Keeper by Pepper Basham

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for The Thorn Keeper by Pepper D. Basham, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Thorn Keeper

Series: Penned in Time #2

Author: Pepper D. Basham

Publisher: Vinspire Publishing

Release Date: February 28, 2016

Genre: Historical Romance

With her past in shambles, how can she fashion a future of hope?

Catherine Dougall’s past of manipulation has left her future in threads. With a new faith, she longs to take the remnants of her life and make something beautiful, but shame, societies’ judgments, and the natural consequences of an unplanned pregnancy test her newfound hope. Dr. David Ross doesn’t help either. His kindness, sacrifice, and tenderness tempt her to impossible dreams. A fallen woman doesn’t merit a fairytale.

David Ross has made every effort to keep his life above reproach. His passion for the sick pump fresh purpose through his choices, but without financial support to maintain his war hospital, all is lost. When his notorious aunt offers an easy solution, David is tempted to give in to her demands, but his growing affection for the reformed flirt, Catherine Dougall, unwinds the careful wall around his heart and offers an unexpected choice.

When the worst of war tears them apart, can love renew the memory of what was lost or will tragedy steal away their hope forever.

From the beautiful Derbyshire countryside to the trenches of World War One, Catherine and David must learn to trust in a God who designs a masterpiece out of brokenness and fashions hope in the most unlikely places.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

I really enjoyed The Thorn Keeper! Catherine is desperately trying to overcome her past and is trying to live the life that God wants her to live. And Dr. David Ross is just the person who wants to help her with that. But can this relationship work, with David’s life so different than Catherine’s.

Pepper Basham has created the perfect cast of characters to tell this wonderful story of love, forgiveness and second chances. And Catherine’s story is told so beautifully, I wanted to be there with all of the characters as the story was told. I love the historical setting. Ms. Basham does an amazing job of researching the setting of the story, and I love each detailed scene written so beautifully. Catherine has a lot of doubts, especially with David, she thinks she is just not good enough for him, but I Pepper does and really nice job of weaving everything together to show how faith  in God changes a person.

I didn’t read the first book in this series, but the author did a really good job from the beginning introducing readers to Catherine, as well as enough information about her past life that it is ok read as a standalone. Though I do plan to read the first book as well soon.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her most recent historical romance, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge, showcases her Appalachian heritage and history, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

Pepper loves getting to know readers and other authors through social media outlets like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. You may also learn more about her on her website at www.pepperdbasham.com

CONNECT WITH PEPPER: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive all three Penned in Time novels in print or ebook format plus a stained glass dragonfly!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway will begin at midnight April 14, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on April 21, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US mailing addresses only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

 

CRACK THE CODE: 10 Proven Secrets by Louis Bezich plus GIVEAWAY

Join us for this tour from

Apr 13 to Apr 24, 2020!

 

 

 

 

Book Details:

Book Title:  CRACK THE CODE: 10 Proven Secrets that Motivate Healthy Behavior and Inspire Fulfillment in Men Over 50 by Louis Bezich
Category:  Adult Non-fiction 18 yrs +,  302 pages
Genre:  Men’s Health / geared towards Men Over 50
Publisher:  Somo Press, LLC
Release date:   November 2018
Format available for review:  print, mobi (for Kindle), epub, pdf
Will send print books out:  USA
Tour dates: Apr 13 to Apr 24, 2020
Content Rating:  G: No sex, violence, or bad language. Written for men over 50, or their wives.

Book Description:

“Crack The Code” presents an unconventional, motivation-based approach to health for men 50 and over. Ten strategies for creating and maintaining inspiration for a healthy lifestyle are advanced from a platform of survey research, interviews and the author’s personal experiences. Primary audiences for the book are men over 50 and the people that love them; their wives, partners, children and grandchildren. Additional audiences include health care providers, insurers, policy makers, men of all ages who want to find motivation for healthy behavior and anyone who has struggled with their health.

Asserting that without motivation no diet, exercise program, technology or other strategy will produce sustained results, “Crack The Code” describes how healthy-living men, one of the most health-challenged segments of the American population, exhibit a strong cognitive association between their life’s priorities and their behaviors; a catalytic awareness in which men often integrate their valued relationships into their health behaviors (they take walks with their wife). What the author terms Male Cognitive Behavioral Alignment. The secret sauce of male motivation outlined in the book is derived from a nationwide survey of 1,000 healthy-living men. “Crack The Code” translates the findings into strategies and tactics with actionable exercises.

Personal stories from interviews and focus groups add practical insights and emotion that engages readers. A discussion of relevant theories from psychology, management science and the fields of decision making and behavior change anchor the model in a context of well-established thinking. “Crack The Code” concludes with a call to action for a new culture of men’s health, outlining a confluence of social, economic and political factors in the US and beyond that represent a tipping point where healthy behavior among 50 plus men will become the new norm. Crack The Code’s focus on motivation and the psycho-social underpinnings of behavior fills a gap in a market dominated by publications on traditional diet and exercise. By digging deeper and using everyday men as a source, “Crack The Code” breaks new ground for a burgeoning segment of the baby-boomer population that is in desperate need of help. The potential to influence men of other ages as well as health care providers, insurers and policy makers, creates a tremendously valuable read.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Crack the Code author Louis Bezich gives men over 50, 10 Proven Secrets that Motivate Healthy Behavior and Inspire Fulfillment. In this book, the author digs deep into the statistics and findings about the health and well being of men over 50 years of age. And gives this age group the motivation the need to use these 10 steps and live a healthier and happier life.

This is a well written book, and it is very clear how much the information is researched for this book. The author also interviews many healthy men this age to get their input on how they stay healthy and deal with age. It seen that a lot of what author Louis Bezich found is men who exercise, eat healthy and make healthy choices are able to hit their 50’s with a bang and maintain these 10 secrets found that will keep up their health and well being. The key is to implement these 10 steps with determination and strength as they live their daily lives.

If you are in this age group, or if you are standing at the threshold of your 50 years, this is definitely a book you want to check out. What can it hurt? And you never know, you may find you are already doing a lot if these things, or, you may find a whole new lifestyle that will keep you healthier, make you feel better, and have the happiness you need. I have someone in mind to give this book too. When I was reading through these 10 secrets, I had just the person in mind that would be getting this book. This would make a great gift to someone on your 50’s list!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

Buy the Book:
Amazon.com ~ Barnes & Noble ~ IndieBound

About the Author

Meet the Author:

An executive for over 40 years in the public and private sectors, Louis Bezich currently serves as a Senior Vice-President with a major health care system. He is an adjunct professor in the Graduate Department of Public Policy and Administration at the Camden Campus of Rutgers University and sits on various public, non-profit and corporate boards. Bezich has published numerous articles in the field of public administration and health and is a contributing author to Corporate Lawbreaking and Interactive Compliance, edited by Jay A. Sigler and Joseph E. Murphy. He holds a master’s degree in public policy from Rutgers University, a bachelor’s degree in social science from the University of Tampa and is a graduate of Harvard University’s Program for Senior Executives in State and Local Government.

​Connect with the author:  Website  ~  Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Instagram

Tour Schedule:

Apr 13 – StoreyBook Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Apr 15 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway
Apr 16 – T’s stuff – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 16 – Splashes of Joy – book review / giveaway
Apr 17 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book review / giveaway
Apr 20 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Apr 21 – Laura’s Interests – book review / guest post / giveaway
Apr 23 – Literary Flits – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 24 – The Avid Reader – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 24 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway
TBD – Library of Clean Reads – book review / author interview / giveaway
TBD – Books,Dreams,Life  – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

Enter the GiveawayPrizes: ​ One of Four $25 Amazon Gift Card courtesy of Louis Bezich, author of CRACK THE CODE (ends May 1)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

Lighten Your Mental Load by Amy Thornton

 

 

 

Join us for this tour from April 13 to May 1, 2020!

Book Details:

Book Title:  Lighten Your Mental Load by Amy Thornton

Category:  Adult non-fiction,  129 pages

Genre:  Self-Help

Publisher:  Tell-Tale Publishing

Release date:   January, 2020

Tour dates: Apr 13 to May 1, 2020

Content Rating:  PG: The author uses occasional mild swear words in the book.

Book Description:

Mental labor, or the mental load, involves the many — and extremely

varied — tasks that are involved in managing a household and/or

workplace. This topic has exploded over the past couple of years,

especially for women. As stated in an October 2017 Washington Post

article, “The constant stress of trying to stay organized — and to

remember to execute so many tasks every single day — is affecting

women’s relationships with their spouses, children, friends, and

colleagues. They are experiencing mental, emotional, and physical

fatigue trying to stay on top of it all.”

Lighten Your Mental Load shares real stories of what

this load is like for both men and women across the globe and how it

originated. It offers practical advice on how to lighten this burden

through technology and other methods in the following areas:

• Home

• Shopping and Meals

• Marriage/Partners

• Children

• Pets

• Transportation

• Career

• Birthdays, Celebrations, Holidays, and Vacations

• Volunteering, Church Activities, and Hobbies

• Caregiving

• Retirement

Finally, the book discusses ways to not add to the mental load of others

and how we can more evenly distribute the mental labor between both

sexes for future generations.

BUY THE BOOK:

Amazon~ Tell-Tale Publishing

Add to Goodreads

 

 

Meet the Author:  

Amy Thornton Shankland, GPC, has been battling the mental load for over

29 years. She is a former Dale Carnegie instructor, has been a grant

professional for 18 years, is a columnist for the Hamilton County

Reporter in Central Indiana, and a wife and mother. She also published Joy to You and Me (At Work!) in 2018 through Tell-Tale Publishing.

Connect with the Author:  website ~ facebook ~ twitter

 Tour Schedule:

April 13 – Working Mommy Journal – book spotlight / giveaway

April 13 – Over Coffee Conversations – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

April 13 – Literary Flits – book spotlight / giveaway

April 14 – Reading Authors Network – book spotlight / giveaway

April 14 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book spotlight / giveaway

April 15 – Karma Readz – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway

April 15 –100 Pages A Day – book spotlight / giveaway

April 16 – Splashes of Joy – book spotlight / giveaway

April 17 – Books, Tea, Healthy Me – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

April 17 – T’s Stuff – book spotlight / giveaway

April 20 – Stephanie Jane – book spotlight / giveaway

April 20 – Books for Books – book spotlight

April 21 – Laura’s Interests – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

April 22 – The avid reader – book spotlight / giveaway

April 22 –Pickagoodbook – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

April 23 – Mowgli with a book – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway

April 24 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

April 24 – eBook Addicts – book spotlight / giveaway

April 27 – DZA’s Blog (at DeborahAdams.com ) – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

April 28 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

April 28 – Olio by Marilyn – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway

April 29 – Library of Clean Reads – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway

April 29 – Divas With A Purpose – book spotlight / author interview

April 30 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway

April 30 – Sefina Hawke’s Books – book spotlight

May 1 – fundinmental – book spotlight / giveaway

May 1 – Seaside Book Nook – book spotlight / giveaway

Enter the Giveaway:

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

If For Any Reason by Courtney Walsh + Giveaway

About the Book

Book:  If For Any Reason

Author: Courtney Walsh

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Release Date: February 3, 2020

Emily Ackerman has traveled the world, her constant compass and companion a book of letters her mother left for her when she died. With no father in the picture, her mom’s advice has been her only true north. But when professional failure leads Emily back to Nantucket to renovate and sell the family cottage she inherited, she wonders if her mom left advice to cover this . . . especially when her grandmother arrives to “supervise.” And especially when her heart becomes entangled with Hollis McGuire, the boy next door–turned–baseball star who’s back on the island after a career-ending injury.

As sparks fly between her and Hollis, Emily is drawn to island life, even as she uncovers shocking secrets about the tragic accident that led to her mother’s death. With her world turned upside down, Emily must choose between allowing the voices from her past to guide her future or forging her own path forward.

My Thoughts On This Book 

My Rating: 5++ out of 5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I love IF FOR ANY REASON for so many reasons! I love the setting in Nantucket, the incredible characters were so realistic, the letters from Emily’s mom were priceless, and I love Emily and Hollis, I love the way Emily and Jolie clicked, and I love the chemistry between Emily and Hollis! And there is so much more. Courtney Walsh writes such an awesome story, I didn’t want it to end.

Emily’s main purpose for her visit to Nantucket was to sell the cottage left to her in her grandfather’s will, and leave. What she didn’t expect to find was Hollis and his family still in Nantucket. Upsetting her life even more. I could understand why this was Emily’s choice, so much hurt had happened here. I was really upset at her grandparents for so many lies, but I did respect her grandfather’s letter to try to make amends. But the hurt was so deep, and trying to find answers went even deeper.

I love, love this story, and I will for sure be reading this one again!! IF FOR ANY REASON is so worth a second read. There is so much to be said about this story, it is such a well written story, and so many things happening. Courtney Walsh for sure has us, her readers wanting more and more as the story unfolds. You really need to read the book for yourself to get the full impact of the story and all of its happenings. If you enjoy good, clean Contemporary fiction, this is one you will love so much.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

Click here for your copy!

 

About the Author

Courtney Walsh is the author of ten inspirational novels. Her debut, A Sweethaven Summer, was a New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller. Courtney lives with her husband and three children in Illinois, where she is also an artist, theater director, and playwright.

 

More from Courtney

3 Bits of Wisdom Every Mother Hopes Her Daughter Cherishes

By Courtney Walsh

There are so many types of mother-daughter relationships, and I’ve discovered that in most of my novels, these relationships are explored in one way or another. My most recent book, If For Any Reason, delves a little deeper into this universal relationship, as the main character’s only connection to her late mother is a book of letters she left behind for daughter when she died.

 

It was interesting to think through the advice and wisdom I would want to be sure to share with my own daughter, if for any reason I wasn’t here to share it in person. There’s so much I would want to say, so many lessons I would want to share, but if I had to boil it down to three bits of wisdom, I think it would be these:

 

Ask for help when you need it.

 

I’m not sure why it’s so difficult to admit we need help sometimes, but in the past year and a half, my family has faced some pretty significant medical challenges, and I learned that it’s necessary to let other people help you. One of the quickest ways to burn out and get overwhelmed is to try to do everything on your own. Now, I’m not talking about laziness. I’m not talking about figuring out ways to get other people to do things for you that you don’t want to do, but genuine help in this journey of life—spiritually, mentally, physically—all the ways that you need to be strong and healthy. You were never meant to figure everything out on your own. And it’s less lonely when you let people in.

 

Mistakes are good . . . as long as you learn from them.

 

Okay, it’s inevitable. You’re going to mess up. You’re going to make a million mistakes and sometimes you’re going to really, really regret them. It’s okay. It’s okay to make the wrong choice now and then . . . but only if you learn from it. Because even though there’s a lot of grace for your mistakes, there are still consequences, and if you’re not willing to learn what you did wrong, you’re just going to keep making a mess of things. Don’t do that. Don’t be stubborn and unmoving. There are opportunities to learn something new every single day, and there are people all around you who can help teach you—but only if you humble yourself, realize you don’t know everything, and are willing to learn. Remaining teachable is one of the greatest things you can do. Learn this lesson early, and you’ll go far.

 

Be yourself.

 

This is one of the most important and most challenging lessons any of us could learn. It’s a platitude, isn’t it? Advice you’d find on the outside of a coffee mug or embroidered on a throw pillow. But it’s more than that, this whole idea of being who you are, who God created you to be. Here’s the tricky part—how do you know who that is? The only way I can tell is to spend time with yourself. And to not be afraid to sit in the quiet with your thoughts. Learn what God says about you so that if those ideas are challenged or someone else tries to put a label on you that you don’t want, you’re armed with the truth. This will serve you well as you work to discover who you are.

 

The truth is, as a mother, I’m constantly learning. As a person, I’m constantly learning. And while these are just three bits of wisdom I hope my daughter carries with her, there are so many other lessons I hope she learns, lessons I hope I can teach her so she doesn’t need to learn the hard way.

 

What about you? What’s one bit of wisdom you want to be sure to pass along to the next generation?

Blog Stops

Among the Reads, April 7

Remembrancy, April 7

Through the Fire Blogs, April 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 8

Robin’s Nest, April 8

Texas Book-aholic, April 8

Wishful Endings, April 9

deb’s Book Review, April 9

Read Review Rejoice, April 9

Batya’s Bits, April 10

Just the Write Escape, April 10

Reflections From My Bookshelves, April 11

Just Your Average reviews, April 11

Inklings and notions, April 12

Life Love Writing, April 12

Worthy2Read, April 12

Lighthouse Academy, April 13

Hallie Reads, April 13

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, April 13

A Baker’s Perspective, April 14

Splashes of Joy, April 14

Older & Smarter?, April 15

Cultivating Us, April 15

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 15

Simple Harvest Reads, April 16 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)

Inside the Wong Mind, April 16

Blessed & Bookish, April 17

Back Porch Reads, April 17

Writing from the Heart Land, April 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 18

Vicky Sluiter, April 18

For Him and My Family, April 19

Mia Reads, April 19

My Devotional Thoughts, April 19

Artistic Nobody, April 20 (Guest Post from Donna Cline)

Bookishly Beverly, April 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Courtney is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Barnes & Nobles gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f92f/if-for-any-reason-celebration-tour-giveaway

PERILS AND PEARLS by Hulda Bachman-Neeb

 

Join us for this tour from Apr 13 to Apr 24, 2020!

 

Book Details:

Book Title:  Perils and Pearls: In World War II, a Family’s Story of Survival and Freedom from Japanese Jungle Prison Camps by Hulda Bachman-Neeb

Category:  Adult Non-Fiction, 190 pages

Genre:  Memoir / Japanese History

Publisher:  BristleCone Press

Release date:   September, 2019

Content Rating: PG: There

are mentions of decapitation and ugly jail or camp scenes and murder.

No bad words, no expletives, no drug use and no drinking.

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“The story of our

Dutch family being ripped apart isn’t unique. Millions suffered beyond

description during the war. However, today, I have the opportunity to

share our story with others so that they may know just how priceless

their freedom is. That is my sincerest wish in bringing this book to the

general public.” – Hulda Bachmann-Neeb

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Book Description:

 

In World War II much of Asia fell under Japanese control after the

attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. All non-Asians were

imprisoned in concentration camps until August of 1945, the end of the

war in the Pacific. This is the story of a Dutch family, resident in the

Dutch East Indies, that fell victim to the Japanese occupation and was

interned in jungle camps throughout the war. It tells the journey from

riches to rags, from fear and suffering, to the joy of freedom and

recovery.

My Thoughts On This Book 

My Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I enjoy reading about history so I was excited to be able to read and review this book. This is the first hand story of Huldah and her family. In the beginning we learn more about her family, and then more grueling accounts of what happened to the family after 1942 when Japan invaded the Dutch Indies. So much of Huldah’s story is very difficult to read, it gives more insite to what actually happend. I could hardly imagine Hulda, her mom and brother spending time in prison camps and the deadly conditions they were forced to face.

I read so many fiction books that I had to keep reminding myself that this was a true story. A story this precious lady had to face. Has to remember every day. I appreciate so much that Hulda has told her story, difficult as it must have been, for the world to read. I encourage anyone reading the review to get a copy if this book and read it. You will find it amazing, just an many of us have found it.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

BUY THE BOOK:

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble

Books-a-Millions ~ IndieBound ~ BookDepository

Add to Goodreads

 

Meet the Author:

 

Hulda Bachman–Neeb was

born in Indonesia of colonial Dutch parentage two years before the Pearl

Harbor attack on December 7, 1941. Because much of Asia fell under

Japanese control, all non-Asians were imprisoned in concentration camps

until August of 1945, the end of the war in the Pacific. As a member of

the Dutch Foreign Service in her adult life, Hulda held assignments in

twenty-five countries over a period of thirty-six years, retiring in

1996. She is married to an American, James Bachman, a historian and

author, and has dual citizenship. Hulda and her husband live in Estes

Park, Colorado.

Connect with the author:    website ~ facebook ~ twitter

Tour Schedule:

Apr 13 – Working Mommy Journal – book review / giveaway

Apr 13 – Books,Dreams,Life  – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

Apr 14 – Splashes of Joy – book review / giveaway

Apr 14 – I’m Into Books – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

Apr 15 – Library of Clean Reads – book review / giveaway

Apr 16 – StoreyBook Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

Apr 16 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / guest post / giveaway

Apr 17 – Literary Flits – book review / giveaway

Apr 20 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway

Apr 21 – @momfluenster – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway

Apr 21 – She Just Loves Books – book review / giveaway

Apr 22 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway

Apr 22 – Leels Loves Books – book review / giveaway

Apr 23 – Olio By Marilyn – book review / author interview / giveaway

Apr 24 – Cheryl’s Book Nook – book review / giveaway

Apr 27 – Book Corner News and Reviews – book review / giveaway

Apr 28 – Svetlana’s reads and views – book review / giveaway

Apr 29 – Laura’s Interests – book review / guest post / giveaway

Apr 30 – The avid Reader – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

May 1 – michellemengsbookblog – book review / giveaway

Enter the Giveaway:

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

Light Shines at Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard

 

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Charlotte Hubbard will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

For abandoned wife Annabelle Beachey, Promise Lodge is a refuge where she’s gained confidence and self-sufficiency. But she and the others are dismayed when newly arrived Bishop Clayton King claims the community is too progressive and sets out to change its ways. Worse, her husband, Phineas, returns, expecting her to give up her faith as he has. And he won’t leave Promise Lodge without her…

But little by little, Annabelle’s determination and new forthrightness make Phineas realize his mistakes—and truly hear his wife for the first time. Meanwhile, Annabelle finds herself feeling compassion—and even renewed love—for her newly humble, more caring husband. And as Bishop Clayton’s attempt to control Promise Lodge threatens everything its residents have built, Phineas and Annabelle must work together with unshakeable courage to save their new home—and their opportunity for forever happiness.

 

Read an Excerpt

As Annabelle Beachey gazed at the happy couple standing before Bishop Monroe Burkholder to exchange their wedding vows, she fought tears. During the four months she’d spent in an apartment at Promise Lodge, she’d become good friends with the bride, Frances Lehman, and she’d acquired a lot of respect for the groom, Preacher Marlin Kurtz. The love light on their faces shone as a testament to the devotion that had grown between them during their summertime courtship—a brilliant example of how God worked out His purpose through the lives of those who kept His faith, even after they’d been widowed.

Annabelle sighed with the rightness of it all. The women around her dabbed at their eyes as Preacher Marlin repeated his vows in an endearingly confident voice, gazing at Frances as though she were the only woman in the world. Folks here were still in awe because Marlin had bought back all the furnishings Frances had consigned to an auction in May, thinking she had to sell everything to get by because her first husband hadn’t left her with much.

My husband didn’t leave me with much, either. He just left me.

 

My Thoughts On This Book 

My Rating: 5 of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I am more than happy to return to the Promise Lodge community in Missouri for the fifth book in this series. Promas Lodge is a place Amish people an come and stay until they get themselve to where they can afford to live on their own. This is definitely a place I would love to retire to, a place where you are with people that love you, and people you love to be around. The big moment this story starts out with is two of their very own are getting married after their pretty short courtship. The Lodge is filled with love and rejoycing, and lots of food to be eaten!
Author Charlotte Hubbard does a very nice job of capturing the details of the wedding so you feel like you are really there.

Life gets back to normal in the community, the shops open and everyone goes back to their regular routine. But but then a few twists enters the story, maybe some new folks joining the lodge? It is all in this beautifully written book by Charlotte Hubbard. If you have read her work before, you know the quality that comes with the read, and you are in for a treat with this one. If you have not read any of Ms. Hubbard’s books, now is the time to start! I encourage you to check out this fifth installment in this series. These books can be read as a stand alone, but much better to read in order, so check out the first four too!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

About the Author:

In 1983, Charlotte Hubbard sold her first story to True Story. She wrote around 70 of those confession stories, and she’s sold more than 50 books to traditional or online publishers. A longtime resident of Missouri, she’s currently writing Amish romances set in imaginary Missouri towns for Kensington. She now lives in St. Paul, MN with her husband of 40+ years and their Border collie, Vera.

Website: https://charlottehubbard.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.hubbard1

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/53342.Charlotte_Hubbard

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/charlotte-hubbard

Buy Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R8WYRZK/

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07R8WYRZK/

Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07R8WYRZK/

Amazon AU: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07R8WYRZK/

Apple Books: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/light-shines-on-promise-lodge/id1461891071

Apple Books UK: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/light-shines-on-promise-lodge/id1461891071

Apple Books CA: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/book/light-shines-on-promise-lodge/id1461891071

Apple Books AU: https://itunes.apple.com/au/book/light-shines-on-promise-lodge/id1461891071

Apple Books NZ: https://itunes.apple.com/nz/book/light-shines-on-promise-lodge/id1461891071

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/light-shines-on-promise-lodge-charlotte-hubbard/1131427032

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/light-shines-on-promise-lodge

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Blog Blitz & Giveaway for When Valleys Bloom Again by Pat Jeanne Davis

Welcome to the Blog Blitz & Giveaway for When Valleys Bloom Again by Pat Jeanne Davis, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: When Valleys Bloom Again

Author: Pat Jeanne Davis

Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing

Release Date: January 16, 2019

Genre: Historical Romance

As war approaches in 1939 Abby Stapleton’s safety is under threat. Her father, a British diplomat, insists she go back to America until the danger passes. Abby vows to return to her home in London—but where is home? With her family facing mortal danger so far away and feeling herself isolated, she finds it hard to pray or read the Bible. Did she leave God behind in war-torn London too? Then Abby becomes friendly with Jim, a gardener on her uncle’s estate.

Jim can’t get Abby out of his mind. Did she have a sweetheart in England? Was it foolish to think she’d consider him? He curses his poverty and the disgrace of his father’s desertion and drunkenness haunts him. Can he learn to believe in love for a lifetime and to hope for a happy marriage?

Abby couldn’t know the war would last a long time, nor that she would fall in love with Jim—soon to be drafted by the U.S. Army—or that she’d have to confront Henri, a rejected suitor, determined by his lies to ruin her reputation and destroy her faith in God’s providence. Will she discover the true meaning of home?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook

 

Excerpt

Chapter 13        Spring 1942

The train station teemed with soldiers and their sweethearts by the time Jim and Abby arrived. Her heart sank like lead under the weight of all the other goodbyes on the platform.

Jim drew her near. “I can see your aunt’s ballroom full of soldiers for one of her events. I’m jealous already.”

Abby tightened her grip around his waist. “Can’t foresee any competition.”

He stroked her cheek. “Just don’t let them hear you sing, and don’t smile too much.”

They went over the footbridge to the quieter side of the platform, keeping an ear out for the announcement of departure. She reached into her purse and handed him a small tinted photograph of them on her graduation day.

Jim broke the silence. “This is more painful than in January when I left for training.”

She nodded, the specter of separation hovering over them threatened to drain away the joy of the past ten days.

The train whistle blew and she jumped, legs trembling. She’d hoped to be prepared for their parting. But she wasn’t. She hated the Japanese for taking Jim away from her.

He snatched up his duffel bag and with his free arm grasped her hand. As they clattered up the metal steps and along the steel-walled gangway over the tracks, their footsteps echoed. Abby shrank from the cold, hard noise. A cloud of steam rose up and engulfed Jim. She tried to drag him back. He pressed on, pulling her behind him, his head turned away, as if heedless of the silent shriek inside her—please don’t go!

They stood together beside the train. “I wish you didn’t ha-ha-have to go,” she said, clasping his hand to the side of her face. Setting his cap straight, she stepped back and flashed a mock salute, determined to be strong for the sake of others here, all brought together by the sorrow of parting—but especially for Jim.

A tight, desperate embrace and a last kiss before Jim hopped onto the bottom rung. The conductor made an inspection of the platform before giving the “All Aboard.” Abby gripped Jim’s arm. Clutching his hand, she ran alongside the rolling train—taking him hundreds of miles away—until she fell behind and had to let go.

The train wiggled out and away from the platform. Long after it had shrunk to a pale silver dot on the blank horizon, Abby stared down the track, hollow inside and unable to will herself away. The crowd dissolved into its melancholy components, and she flowed out with them to the exit.

On her return home, she pulled the drapes across the window before dusk set in, then curled up in a chair, arms wrapped tight around the cushion. Had they made the right decision to wait until after the war to get married? Many of her former classmates were making wedding plans even now. Long after the first owl announced its presence and the chill of night settled in her body, Abby sat there. Not until the egg-yellow light of a new dawn filtered through the window shutters did she fall asleep.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pat Jeanne Davis has a keen interest in 20^th Century United States and British history, particularly the period of World War II. Her longtime interest in that era goes back to the real-life stories she heard about family members who served during the war. When Valleys Bloom Again is a debut inspirational romance set in WWII. She enjoys flower gardening, genealogy research and traveling with her British-born husband.  She writes from her home n Philadelphia, Pa. Pat has published essays, short stories and articles online and in print. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.  She loves to hear from her readers. Visit her at https://www.patjeannedavis.com

CONNECT WITH PAT: Website | Facebook | Instagram

 

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card!

Giveaway will begin at midnight April 13, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on April 20, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US mailing addresses only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

 

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Visit JustRead Tours for bonus giveaway entries!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

 

Flight Risk by Cara Putman

About the Book

Book:  Flight Risk

Author: Cara Putman

Genre:  Romantic Legal Suspense

Release Date: April 7, 2020

Bestselling author Cara Putman returns with a romantic legal thriller that will challenge the assumptions of truth tellers everywhere.

Savannah Daniels has worked hard to build her law practice, to surround herself with good friends, and to be the loyal aunt her troubled niece can always count on. But since her ex-husband’s betrayal, she has trouble trusting anyone.

Jett Glover’s father committed suicide over a false newspaper report that ruined his reputation. Now a fierce champion of truth, Jett is writing the story of his journalism career—an international sex-trafficking exposé that will bring down a celebrity baseball player and the men closest to him, including Savannah’s ex-husband.

When Jett’s story breaks, tragedy ensues. Then a commercial airline crashes, and one of Savannah’s clients is implicated in the crash. Men connected to the scandal, including her ex, begin to die amid mysterious circumstances, and Savannah’s niece becomes an unwitting target.

Against their better instincts, Jett and Savannah join ranks to sort the facts from fiction. But can Savannah trust the reporter who threw her life into chaos? And can Jett face the possibility that he’s made the biggest mistake of his life?

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Wow! Where to start! Author Cara Putman books are many things. They are many levels, fast-pace, full of action, suspense legal thrillers that will pull you to the edge of your seat, biting your nails until long after the last pages are read. And they deal with difficult issues so realistic and with the most incredible characters, you feel as if you are reading the newspaper. I have read many of Ms. Putman’s books, and I believe this is her best so far.

Savannah has her own law firm and she is good at what she does. But what’s worse is her dealing with her too needy and unstable sister and helping her niece. I can understand the fierceness in wanting to protect her niece because I have several nieces, and several great nieces and I feel her loyalty and protectiveness. When Jett comes on the scene, a budding journalist with a story of a lifetime almost under his belt, he had to grow on me a bit because a pushy journalist just gets under my skin. But as he and Savannah worked together trying to figure out what is going on, I was glad he was on her side. There’s really several stories going on here, a lot of twists and turns, but aren’t they the fun part? I always try to solve the issues and find the guilty one for myself, but this one had me stumped until the end.

This absolutely amazing heartwrenching story is certainly one you don’t want to miss. And if you have not read anything by this wonderful author, now is the time to do that. Just hang on to your seats a d go for it! You will love it!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

 

About the Author

Since the time she could read Nancy Drew, Cara has wanted to write mysteries. In 2005 she attended a book signing at her local Christian bookstore. The rest, as they say, was history. There she met a fellow Indiana writer Colleen Coble. With prompting from her husband, Cara shared her dream with Colleen. Since those infamous words, Cara’s been writing award-winning books. She is currently writing book 33 and dreaming up future books, not hard when she sees what-ifs everywhere.

Cara Putman is an active member of ACFW and gives back to the writing community through her service on Executive Board. She has also been the Indiana ACFW chapter president and served as the Area Coordinator for Indiana.

Cara is also an attorney, full-time lecturer at a Big Ten university, active in women’s ministry, and all around crazy woman. Crazy about God, her husband and her kids that is. She graduated with honors from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (Go Huskers!), George Mason Law School, and Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management. You can learn more about Cara at http://www.caraputman.com <http://www.caraputman.com/>.

 

Learn more about Flight Risk and Cara Putman here!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 6

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, April 6

A Baker’s Perspective, April 6

All-of-a-kind Mom, April 7

Read Review Rejoice, April 7

deb’s Book Review, April 7

Betti Mace, April 8

Maureen’s Musings, April 8

Texas Book-aholic, April 8

Genesis 5020, April 9

Inklings and notions, April 9

Becka Jiménez’s FB, April 9

For Him and My Family, April 10

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, April 10

CarpeDiem, April 10

Through the Fire Blogs, April 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 11

LIfe, Love, Writing, April 11

Emily Yager, April 12

Splashes of Joy, April 12

Lights in a Dark World, April 12

Mary Hake, April 12

Older & Smarter?, April 13

Daysong Reflections, April 13

Book of Ruth Ann, April 13

Kat’s Corner Books, April 14

Blessed & Bookish, April 14

Remembrancy, April 14

Blossoms and Blessings, April 15

Spoken from the Heart, April 15

Simple Harvest Reads, April 15 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Writer Without a Space, April 16

By The Book, April 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 16

Bigreadersite, April 17

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, April 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 17

As He Leads is Joy, April 18

Pause for Tales, April 18

For The Love of Books, April 18

Hallie Reads, April 19

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 19

EmpowerMoms, April 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Cara is giving away the grand prize package of a Vera Bradley travel cosmetics set, a journal for capturing vacation memories, a copy of Flight Risk, and a bracelet!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f963/flight-risk-celebration-tour-giveaway

11 Million People by Andy Andrews

Welcome to the Blog Tour for How Do You Kill 11 Million People? by Andy Andrews, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: How Do You Kill 11 Million People?: Why the Truth Matters More Than You Think

Author: Andy Andrews

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Release Date: March 17, 2020

Genre: Motivational/Inspirational Political Science

Become an informed, passionate citizen who demands honesty and integrity from our leaders or suffer the consequences of our own ignorance and apathy.

In this updated and expanded New York Times bestselling nonpartisan book, Andy Andrews urges you to believe that seeking and discerning the truth really, really matters and that believing lies is the most dangerous thing you can do. You’ll be challenged to become a more “careful student” of the past, seeking accurate, factual accounts of events and decisions that illuminate choices you face now.

By considering how the Nazi German regime was able to carry out over eleven million institutional killings between 1933 and 1945, Andrews advocates for an informed population that demands honesty and integrity from its leaders and from each other. He includes several key documents written by our Founding Fathers as examples of America’s core principles that present and future leadership should live up to and embrace.

We can no longer measure a leader’s worth by the yardsticks provided by the left or the right. Instead, we must use an unchanging standard: the pure, unvarnished truth.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

This was a really interesting book. And very well written. It was an interesting journey in time talking about the way America use to be. And how we should expect and demand the truth from our leaders today, all of them. And the stuff in this book is really more needed today because of the pandemic with Covid 19. And it being an election year when we usually hear the candidates say what they think will get then voted into office, and they certainly don’t speak the truth. I found it interesting to read parts of the founding fathers letters, and other important things the author outlines in this book. There is so much here, you really need a copy of the book to read it for yourself! You may find it interesting to read during this time in our US history.

I was provided a Netgalley copy of this book. The opinions here are my own, my own thought on what I feel the book is about.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Photo by Christy Haynes, BeachChicPhotography.com

Andy Andrews is a bestselling novelist, speaker, and consultant for some of the world’s most successful teams, largest corporations, and fastest-growing organizations. He is the author of the New York Times bestsellers The Noticer, How Do You Kill 11 Million People?, and the modern classic The Traveler’s Gift. For more information, please visit AndyAndrews.com.

CONNECT WITH ANDY: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(3) winners will receive a print copy of How Do You Kill 11 Million People? by Andy Andrews!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight April 6, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on April 20, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US mailing addresses only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.