Welcome to my Book Review Blog. My goal is to connect readers with the wonderful and amazing books I am blessed to reveiw. And to introduce you to the talented and wonderful authors responsible for writing these books. May my love for books show through my reviews on this site.
And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts . . . Is Quincy even interested in a wife? Can the middle-aged chef cook up a romance with a beautiful, but spoiled, young woman? Priscilla definitely wanted no part of the arrangement. At the point though, what options did she have? Thrown together due only to friends’ and family’s unbeknownst interference, the widower and bereaved socialite make an unlikely pair, But God . . .
Award-winning author Caryl McAdoo prays her story brings God glory, and her best-selling stories—over fifty published—delight Christian readers around the world. The prolific writer also enjoys singing the new songs the Lord gives her; you may listen at YouTube. Sharing four children and twenty-to-be grandsugars with Ron, high-school-sweetheart-husband of over fifty years, Caryl and Ron live in the woods south of Clarksville, seat of Red River County in far Northeast Texas. The McAdoos wait expectantly for God to open the next door.
Quincy and Priscilla need a little match making, or at least that’s what some people thing, the only thing is, Quincy is pretty much clueless, though Priscilla is well aware as her mother sends her off to Texas for her new marriage. Imaging her surprise when she finds out who Quincy is, and the fact that he has no clue who she is and what she is here for. Boy is he in for a surprise.
I love Caryl McAdoo’s books and this is such a fun one to read, and as Ms. McAdoo says, a roller coaster ride for sure. I enjoyed the journey with Priscilla and Quincy, though it wasn’t always an easy one. McAdoo created wonderful characters with this one, each telling their story so expertly and I enjoyed watching their development throughout the story. There are twists and turns here in the story as well that kept me on my toes as I read this wonderful read. And if I say more I am sure to give away the plot. So go grab this book so that you can read it for yourself. You are sure to love it just 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.
More from Caryl
Well, what’s better or more fun than a story with an improbable hero-heroine match! Neither ever even thought about hiring someone to find them a spouse! But a newly-widowed mother wanted a husband for her daughter, and a dear daughter wanted a wife for her widowed father.
The two believed they knew exactly what Quincy and Priscilla needed—to marry!
I love reading stories with connecting characters, so this one relates to my Cross Timbers Romance Family Saga. Downtown Dallas is the setting for QUINCY & PRISCILLA At The Lowell House, a hotel Morgan and Charity Lowell built . . . just as her little sister dreamed in book four, LEAVING TEXAS.
Once Charity ate Quincy’s cuisine, there was nothing to do but hire him away from the New York restaurant and sway him to come to Texas—no easy task. Morgan’s offer of partial ownership tipped the scales, and as time passed, Charity and his wife became fast friends, even going through pregnancies together.
Her Maisie came first, then when the second baby girl was born, the mother passed, leaving the chef a widower with a tiny daughter. Now eight years old, Rayne and Maisie pester the girl’s mother, her honorary Aunt Charity, into going in cahoots with them to find Quincy a wife—whether he wanted one or not.
Meanwhile, back in Chicago, Priscilla’s papa died suddenly, leaving her mother practically penniless. Behind her socialite daughter’s back, Mama schemed to get her daughter a husband. Men were scarce in 1866 after the war. Knowing her hard-headed girl would refuse any such proposition, she hired a matchmaker behind her back.
The match had been made, and she had to tell Priscilla! Mama tried at least fifty times and failed, but time was up. The family home had been sold, a new year was dawning, and she had train tickets in hand for the girl’s soon departure to Texas.
That’s where my story begins! Mama can’t force Priscilla to go, so what’s it going to take to get on that train? Then when she arrives at the Lowell House and her intended knows nothing of her . . .
I believe the journey will take the readers on a rollercoaster ride!
If they expected silence, they hired the wrong woman.
Caroline Bragg’s life has never been better. She and Brandon Lancaster are taking their relationship to the next level, and she has a new dream job as legal counsel for Praecursoria—a research lab that is making waves with its cutting-edge genetic therapies. The company’s leukemia treatments even promise to save desperately sick kids—kids like eleven-year-old Bethany, a critically ill foster child at Brandon’s foster home.
When Caroline’s enthusiastic boss wants to enroll Bethany in experimental trials prematurely, Caroline objects, putting her at odds with her colleagues. They claim the only goal at Praecursoria is to save lives. But does someone have another agenda?
Brandon faces his own crisis. As laws governing foster homes shift, he’s on the brink of losing the group home he’s worked so hard to build. When Caroline learns he’s a Praecursoria investor, it becomes legally impossible to confide in him. Will the secrets she keeps become a wedge that separates them forever? And can she save Bethany from the very treatments designed to heal her?
This latest romantic legal thriller by bestseller Cara Putman shines a light on the shadowy world of scientific secrets and corporate vendettas—and the ethical dilemmas that plague the place where science and commerce meet.
As a preteen Cara Putman watched lawyers change legislative opinions at an important legislative hearing in Nebraska. At that time, she wondered if she became an attorney if people would give her words the same weight. An honors graduate of the University of Nebraska Lincoln, George Mason University School of Law and Krannert School of Management at Purdue University, Cara has turned her passion for words into award-winning stories that capture readers. Her legal experience makes its way into her stories where strong women confront real challenges.
An award-winning author of more than 30 books, Cara writes legal thrillers, WWII romances, and romantic suspense because she believes that no matter what happens hope is there, waiting for us to reach for it.
When she’s not writing, Cara is an over-educated attorney who lectures in law and communications at the Krannert School of Management at Purdue University and homeschools her children. She and her family live in Indiana, the land of seasons. You can read chapters for most of her books and connect with Cara at her website: http://caraputman.com.
Wow! Where do I start! I knew with a Cara Putman book I was in for a treat. And boy was I! When Caroline Bragg takes on a new position as legal counsel for the research lab, Praecursoria she had no idea how her life was about to change. And then there is Brandon, they finally decided after all these years to start dating, making their relationship real. But how can she boggle both her job and Brandon around and come out for the good?
I loved this story. Though the topic is a bit scary and exciting, wondering if this could really happen. The characters here are a bit completed, each having their own thoughts and reasoning. Some I had trouble liking, others grew on me and some, like Caroline and Brandon, I loved from the start. Both having their own struggles adds much more to the story. I found myself almost praying that Brandon would get the break he needed with his foster home, and I was really scared for Caroline with her job. Was she really safe trying to do the right thing? So many questions with no answers, but when you read Lethal Intent, you will eventually find all of these answers and so much more. So much is happening in this one book. You need to read this one for yourself because there is no way to touch on it all. Just believe me when I say it is an amazing read. One you will be happy you 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.
PMore from Cara
Each novel has a unique genesis story. The spark that launches it into a journey of 90,000 words. For Lethal Intent, that journey began with a friend’s journey of childhood leukemia with her oldest. From watching their family wind through years of treatment including cutting edge therapy trials. Then it developed with the Immortal Life of Henrietta Lack and the thought what would someone be willing to do if they believed they’d found the next strain of immortal cells. The lead characters made appearances in other books, but now would have their opportunity to step to center stage. The story morphed and changed, dictated by the vagaries of the law and changes.
Each story has a spark. For Caroline it was a brainstorming session with my writing buddies Rachel Hauck, Colleen Coble, and Denise Hunter. That was when her backstory developed, all the things that happened to her to form her into the adult she is on the pages. One who cares deeply about others but who is fundamentally scared, longing for a place she can relax and take a deep breath.
Each story has a spark. For Brandon, it was brainstorming with another writing friend Tricia Goyer that lead to a creative job for a hero that wasn’t the typical law enforcement. His role with the group foster home was set and the backstory filled in quickly. What would it be like to be separated from and lose a brother in the foster care system? Would that generate this need to keep sibling groups together? And then the law changes and the fabric of your professional identity and something so much deeper is threatened.
Each story has a spark. The pharmaceutical start-up where ethics collides with the desire to save children. The push to do whatever it takes overshadowing the guardrails of the law. If they expected silence, they hired the wrong woman. But does Caroline really have the strength to battle and does she need to?
Lethal Intent grew from each of these sparks and many more to develop into a story I can’t wait for you to read. In the process I learned immense amounts about CAR-T cell therapies and foster care law. Most of all, I hope you’ll fall into the pages and be engrossed in a story you can’t bring yourself to put down until the final page.
To celebrate her tour, Cara is giving away the grand prize package of a “Just one more chapter” pillow cover, a copy of the book, an Erin Condren journal, and a hand-stamped bracelet!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
Book Details: Book Title: Mia and Nattie – One Great Team by Marlene M. Bell Category: Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7), 32 pages Genre: Children’s Picture Book Publisher: Ewephoric Publishing Release date: October 3, 2020 Format available for review: print (USA and Canada), ebook (gifted kindle) Tour dates: Jan 18 to Feb 5, 2021 Content Rating: G for everyone. Family based book for all ages, https://www.youtube.com/embed/aslSfHmESPU
Book Description:
Nattie’s mouth was a little crooked. Her legs were a bit shorter than usual, and one horn was too straight, like a unicorn’s horn. But Mia thought Nattie was perfect. In a read-aloud picture book for children who love animals, award-winning writer and sheep breeder Marlene M. Bell presents Nattie the lamb’s true story. MIA AND NATTIE is a heartwarming book that teaches readers about problem-solving, teamwork, and love. On a visit to her grandma’s farm, eight-year-old Mia discovers a newborn, orphaned lamb outside in the cold and takes her to the laundry room, naming her Nattie. As she tries to nurse the lamb back to health, Mia discovers that Nattie is different from the other lambs and struggles to fit in with them like Mia does with other kids her age. When her grandmother says she will sell Nattie to a neighbor, Mia must come up with a plan to keep her friend around—one that will show the family just how special Nattie truly is.
Mia and Nattie is a cute story of a little lamb that was born different, so Mia brought Nattie home and kept her inside the laundry room. That is until her grandma made her move Nattie outside. Grandma still wants to get rid of Nattie but then find out she is a special sheep. But will Nattie be able to earn her stay, as far as the grandma is concerned?
I love Mia and Nattie and Mia was such a good girl to take care of the little lamb. And after Nattie grew into a sheep, Mia still loved her special animal. The love between these two shines bright. Though sometimes grandma doesn’t seem so happy with Mia. I thought the author did a really nice job of telling their story. As well as showing that an animal that is different does have a purpose. And I love the story at the end of the book about the real Natalie. How cool is that, knowing Nattie was real, and that this story is based on the real life Nattie. I just love the illustrations by Grace Sandford, they are so adorable. She was able to capture the story through the pictures she created. I love the vibrant, beautiful colors and the adorable Nattie. And Mia and her grandma were so cute, though grandma did have some weird facial moments in there that were very comical. I found this story a really sweet and adorable read. A read that should be in every daycare, preschool, kindergarten, and all elementary library. Be sure to ask you child’s school library, ad well as your public library to get copies of Mia and Nattie’s story. This is one book that will sure be checked out by every student, especially the little girls.
This precious little book, with it’s sweet story, it’s precious characters, with the illustrations that tell the story so well, is beautiful inside and out. I will save this one for my new grandaughter! And this one is a Five plus Stars for me! I would love to be able to give this one more Stars, it sure deserves more!
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.
AN INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR
Were there any real-life inspirations behind your writing?
When I met my husband in 1979, he was in the middle of a nasty divorce. They were in the process of selling the ranch they’d built together when oil prices were high and banks were loaning at a whopping 17% interest rate. No one could afford expensive homes in the Tracy, California area at that time. His soon-to-be-ex made outrageous personal charges, and her attorney letters were a weekly occurrence. I could write an entire novel over her accusations. It was a miserable three years for the man I was dating.
When she left and filed for divorce, she also stripped their ranch of furniture and all that wasn’t tied down. She brought a moving truck home one day and took everything inside their home. A hateful thing to do. The neighbor had watched the van fill up with belongings and told my husband this had happened while he remained at work.
After we married, the old ranch finally sold—with a first mortgage, a second mortgage and my husband’s ex-wife and new husband carrying back the third note. Thankfully, we were out of that arrangement living on a small ranch of our own. (They later sold that third note for cash and lost half of the value!) For all the trouble she’d caused us, as the saying goes, “It comes back to bite you.”
After the sale, I packed the kitchen at the old ranch and found a full drawer she’d missed emptying out. It held condolence letters inside. While my husband packed from another room, I nosed around the envelopes. It’s a terrible thing to read another person’s mail, but in this case, I made an exception because they were left behind. All were addressed to my husband’s hellish ex-wife. I was surprised to find them, especially when I skimmed a few of the notes.
I asked my husband about his ex-wife’s father since the notes told of his untimely death. I was shocked to learn that he had been a successful dentist in the bay area and had jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge, but no one knew why. I didn’t press further, and we gathered all of the cards and letters for the burn bin. The story left me with so many questions.
About ten years later, my husband mentioned that he’d heard his ex-father-in-law had reappeared in their home town of Livermore. How intriguing! Had he faked his death because of debt? Did he run away to be with another woman, or man? I have to wonder why he came back when he’d hatched the perfect escape plan where no one bothered to look for him. It mystifies me to this day. Read Mia and Nattie as well as my novel, Spent Identity. Some of these principles are shared there!
If you had the power to time travel, would you use it? If yes, when and where would you go?
I would use the power of time travel as long as I could return to my own time. My favorite time travel series is Outlander. Anyone who has read Ms. Gabaldon’s books falls in love with the main character, Claire and her Scottish hunk, Jamie. I have an idea for a time travel series to New Zealand in and around the latter part of the 19th century. One of my editors cut a section from an early draft of series book one stating simply, “No, no, no!” She was right to keep fantasy out of my current WIP series of mystery/romance, but I can still dream of using this idea going forward for a new series with a different protagonist.
If one of your books were being made into a TV series or movie, who would you cast to play the primary roles?
I would like to pair two unlikely directors together for Spent Identity. Steven Spielberg and Clint Eastwood. Both are seasoned directors who excel in portraying broody mysteries and real-life drama. My lead actress to play Annalisse would be Anne Hathaway, and her love interest Alec would be played by Bradley Cooper. Alec’s mother, Generosa, would have to be Meryl Streep.
The locations in the series are international— winging to places like, Crete, Turkey, Grand Cayman, New Zealand, Sicily and Southern Italy. Home base for the movie will always be Manhattan or upstate New York where Alec’s estate is located. I’d also have James Cameron write the screenplay based on the novel. There would be big bucks involved to produce this movie!!
What do you say to those who view listening to audiobooks as “cheating” or as inferior to “real reading”?
My advice to those who listen to books versus read would be simple. Do whatever is easiest to pick up a good story and transport yourself to another place. Not everyone has the time to pick up a book or use an ereader to go page by page. Listening is the next best thing, and authors will adore you either way!
Children’s picture books are quick reads, as I would imagine that parents and grandparents wish to read the books prior to giving them to young readers.
How did you celebrate after finishing a children’s book or novel?
To celebrate the completion of Spent Identity I went online and shopped until I dropped. My husband Gregg knows my habits and doesn’t bat an eyelash, which helps!
He calls me the mail order queen because I found printed catalogs when I was a teenager, ordering the moment I opened my first checking account. My mail order business, Ewephoric, began in 1985 so I’ve been producing resale products for literally decades. Unique items not found in brick-and-mortar stores is my weakness. Making our sheep gift clients happy is a goal through my websites as well as my writing. We raise sheep and the business is tied to the sheep industry. Mia and Nattie: One Great Team is based on a true story about the lamb we raised in the laundry room. We did this only once, thankfully!
What bits of advice would you give to aspiring authors?
If you are serious about putting in the hours that it takes to become an accomplished author, I would suggest picking up as many books as possible on crafting good fiction or non-fiction. I must have gone through a hundred books before I realized how many bad habits I’d picked up by just reading the bestselling authors. Best Selling authors can break every writing rule there is. There are rules for most of us. Only when you’ve sold thousands of books can you willy-nilly break these rules. Speak to as many agents and editors as possible as well. Never edit your own work before publishing. We all have to self-edit during the process, but make sure that you’ve paid a professional editor or two to help you polish your work prior to publishing. Be diligent at getting the book proofread many times. If you miss a typo or two, trust me, your readers will mention it in their reviews!
What’s next for you?
Novel three in the Annalisse Series, SCATTERED LEGACY! My editor recently changed the placemark title of the book from Calico Raven to Scattered Legacy after she read and edited the first draft. The novel has a stunning cover that I’ll reveal to my followers and readers soon. I’m working on the second draft in January 2021. I hope to have Scattered Legacy out in 2021 if I don’t run into any snags and editing goes well.
Annalisse and Alec are drawn into a murder that takes place in Bari, Italy. At first, they believe the victim is random, but soon find out that Alec is tied to the murdered woman by other means, and Annalisse’s past is drawn into events as the mystery unfolds.
This book will also be available in audio once it’s released in paperback and eBook.
A CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOK makes its debut in 2020! MIA and NATTIE: One Great Team is my first book in this genre for children ages 3-7. This book has special meaning to me because it’s based on the true story of Natalie, the bottle lamb we raised in the laundry room. She lived with us for 13 years. It’s a heartwarming, read-aloud book for the entire family. Mia and Nattie is available in hardbound and eBook. The picture book also includes the option of a plush Nattie character that can be ordered on our sheep website: https://www.texassheep.com.
You will find Mia and Nattie to be a happy break from the sea of mindless children’s books without a plot or theme.
Meet the Author:
Marlene M. Bell is an award-winning writer, artist, and crazy sheep lady who resides in beautiful East Texas. Her renown sheep photographs grace the covers of many livestock magazines where she also writes newsy articles about raising sheep from her hands-on experience. Marlene offers the first of her children’s picture books, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team which is based on true events from the Bell’s ranch. It’s a touching story of compassion and love between a little girl and her lamb. Marlene shares her life with her husband and dreadfully spoiled horned Dorset sheep: a large Maremma guard dog named Tia, and cats, Hollywood, Leo, and Squeaks. The cats believe they rule the household—and do.
Madysen Powell has always been a forgiving person, but when her supposedly dead father shows up in Nome, Alaska, her gift for forgiveness is tested. With the recent loss of her mother, she searches for answers, leaning on Granny Beaufort, a neighbor in town, who listens with a kind heart. Still, Madysen is restless and dreams of performing her music around the world. The arrival of a traveling show could prove just the chance she needs, and the manager promises more than she ever dreamed.
Daniel Beaufort arrives in Nome, searching for his own answers after the gold rush leaves him with only empty pockets. Still angry about the death of his loved ones, he longs to start fresh but doesn’t have high hopes until he ends up helping at the Powell dairy making cheese. Drawn to the beautiful redhead with big dreams, will deceptions from the past tear apart any hope for the future?
Tracie Peterson (www.traciepeterson.com) is the award-winning author of over 100 novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her many bestselling series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana.
Kimberley Woodhouse (www.kimberleywoodhouse.com) is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than fifteen fiction and nonfiction books. A popular speaker and teacher, she’s shared her theme of “Joy Through Trials” with more than half a million people across the country at more than 2,000 events. Kim and her incredible husband of twenty-five-plus years have two adult children. She’s passionate about music and Bible study and loves the gift of story.
Endless Mercy is the second in a series, and where it can be read as a stand alone, I would encourage reading them in order. I enjoyed reading Daniel and Madysen’s story. And my heart went out to Madysen so much because he was so hurt over her father showing up like he did. There’s secrets here that need to be told and a lot of forgiveness to be given but it wasn’t easy at all. And when Daniel turns up in Nome working at the Powell Dairy, things started getting interesting for sure.
Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse does a wonderful job with this story. I love the characters, and how well they developed as the story unfolds. Madsen and Daniel brought a lot of interest to the story. I love their interactions with each other, the two are such enjoyable characters and they make the story so much fun. Endless Mercy sure kept my attention to the very end of the book. I love this book so much. I can’t wait to see what these two wonderful authors have for reads next. If you enjoy a good historical fiction, this would be a very nice one for you to read. This one is a sure Five Stars for me, and I wish I could give it more.
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.
More from Kim
It’s so exciting for book two in our Treasures of Nome series, Endless Mercy, to be heading out into the world! Tracie and I are so thrilled to bring you another story set in Nome, Alaska. And isn’t that cover gorgeous? Bethany House does such an amazing job with our books, it is an absolute joy to get to work with them.
In book one, Forever Hidden, we are introduced to three sisters and their family (and farm) in Nome. Forever Hidden is Havyn’s story. And did I mention there are chickens? Check out my blog for some interesting pictures and stories about how these chicken stories came to be…
Book two, Endless Mercy, is Madysen’s story. Madysen is the youngest sibling, and in our story, she’s a talented cello player. Oh, and there are some sheep, who just might help get her into mischief. (Are you seeing a pattern here?)
Book three will release January 2022 and will finish out the Powell girls’ stories with the eldest, Whitney.
This series is very near and dear to us because the Powell sisters in the books are actually named after three beautiful girls we adore. They were music students of mine in Colorado and when Tracie and I had a book signing for In the Shadow of Denali, the red-headed, musical sisters all came. Tracie made the comment that someone should write a book about them…so of course…we did!
I wish you could hear the girls play and sing in real life. They are such talented musicians, and I love them dearly. Huge thanks go to Monica and Merle Powell for allowing us to take their three girls and make fictional characters out of them.
Here’s a picture of Monica with me and Tracie at a book signing years ago. And then of course, I had to put in a picture of the real Powell girls.
We’d love for you to join us for The Treasures of Nome. Enjoy the blog tour!
To celebrate their tour, Kimberley and Tracie are giving away the grand prize package of Forever Hidden, Endless Mercy, and this candle!! (https://etsy.me/2JvrO0a)
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
Altered Helix(Altered Helix #1)By Stephanie Hansen Young Adult Fantasy Novella Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 96 Pages May 19, 2020 by Hypothesis Books
I didn’t want to take the traditional path. First, I wasn’t ready for college. Second, I was going to live with my best friend, Tiff, and work at the Haunted House. Third, did I mention the hot guy Josh that works there too?
The most exciting thing about Austria’s new job, at a local haunted house, was the fact that the toughest looking people screamed the loudest. But when she meets the boy without a home, Josh, Austria’s life takes intriguing and eventful turns. Up until now, Josh has managed to hang with his Street crowd, but they’re in danger, and so is Austria, the girl Josh recently fell for. The group finds themselves joining forces with previously considered enemies who also now find themselves in danger.
Deeply compassionate and full of twists, Altered Helix captures the struggle of polarized people that must work together for the greater good.
I feel bad that Patrice has to work with Matt and Ed now. At least she’ll have Ethan with her. Now I see Ceresa is going to join her too. Good. Tiff’s heading back to Luke and Josh. Before I turn to do the same, I take one last look at Matt and Ed. They’re popping the knuckles on their hands, then they both turn and look directly at me at the same time. Why are they only looking at me? Is it because I’m the new kid? A cold sweat dampens the back of my neck as I turn to walk away.
That’s when it happens. Shadows begin to swarm around me. It’s like they’re circling vultures, and I’m the carcass. The energy makes me as dizzy as if I were dehydrated on a desert. And everything goes black for a second. When it’s light again, I’m hovering above everybody. At first, I think I’ve died and am having an out-of-body experience, but then I hear them. Bill’s over my body on one side checking my pulse, and says that I’ve fainted, embarrassing. Josh and Tiff are on the other side of me and look concerned. Then I hear a voice I would recognize anywhere. When I turn to my right, my voice recognition is confirmed. My father is there. He looks hazy, as if looking at a mirage. He reaches out his hand. I reach out mine. The warmth I feel when I hold his ghostly hand is like a favorite blanket I had as a child. My father looks me in the eyes.
“Be careful, Austria.”
Other Books in the Series
(Linked to Amazon affiliate links.)
About the Author
Stephanie Hansen is a PenCraft Award Winning Author. Her short story, Break Time, and poetry has been featured in Mind’s Eye literary magazine. The Kansas Writers Association published her short story, Existing Forces, appointing her as a noted author. She has held a deep passion for writing since early childhood, but a brush with death caused her to allow it to grow. She’s part of an SCBWI critique group in Lawrence, KS and two local book clubs. She attends many writers’ conferences including the Writing Day Workshops, New York Pitch, Penned Con, New Letters, All Write Now, Show Me Writers Master Class, BEA, and Nebraska Writers Guild conference as well as Book Fairs and Comic-Cons. She is a member of the deaf and hard of hearing community.
Decades after her parents’ murders, Penelope McGregor’s grateful the killer’s finally been identified—until he comes after her. Now Detective Tyler Walker and his K-9 partner, Dusty, must protect Penelope and catch the culprit…while making sure his little girl stays out of the crosshairs. But can the single father outplay a killer whose endgame will leave no one safe?
Dana Mentink is a two time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award and a Holt Medallion winner. She is a national bestselling author of over forty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Poisoned Pen Press, and Harvest House. Besides writing, she busies herself puttering around her Northern California backyard. Mostly, she loves to be home with Papa Bear, teen bear cubs affectionately nicknamed Yogi and Boo Boo, Junie, the nutty terrier, and a chubby box turtle. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.)
I enjoy so much reading Love Inspired books. They are small and packed full of fun and adventure. And Cold Case Pursuit was no different. This action packed suspense kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading. And I had to read it in one setting because I couldn’t put it down. This story has some difficult issues and I feel the author handles them well. The romance and suspense is strong, and of course there is law enforcement of some kind involved. And I enjoy the faith factor in the story as well. If you like a good suspense that you can read pretty fast you will definitely enjoy 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.
More from Dana
I love book covers with adorable children on them, don’t you? There’s something so angelic about those wee folks on the covers. I have two bear cubs myself, young adults now, and I love them devotedly. Tell you what though. Sometimes, just occasionally mind you, they were a wee bit naughty. Don’t tell anyone, but one reason I enjoyed writing Cold Case Pursuit so much is that hero Tyler is the single dad of a little girl named Rain who is….er…a handful. Sure, she’s adorable, but she’s prone to disobedience and the occasional tendency to flush things down the toilet. So in addition to the edge of your seat pursuit of a murderous clown killer, there are the shenanigans of a precocious preschooler, a highly trained yet distractible police K-9, and a romance that doesn’t exactly run smoothly. Fun to write? You betcha! I hope you enjoy coming along with me on this True Blue adventure!
Taking on her ailing father’s gardening business on Merriweather Island, Samantha Green only wants to escape her ex and to make her father proud.
But Sam gets more than she bargained for when Greener Gardens accepts the job of restoring the gardens of a reclusive writer, Max Fairhaven, whose historical novels about romance and unrequited love litter bookstore shelves and movie marquees all over the world.
Max much prefers the fictional world to the real, and the gardening girl’s interruptions means he’s driven from his writing cave far too often for his liking.
How’s he supposed to craft stories with her distracting him all the time?
Things change when he learns something of Sam’s family challenges, and his admiration slowly kindles. With his secretary’s goading, he’s forced to confront the past, while facing the fact that he needs to change in order to avoid a lonely future.
Gentle pruning and a whole lot of banter forges a friendship between this not-so-Southern belle landscaper and the half-British author. But is their budding attraction enough to grow into a flourishing happily-ever-after?
Restoring Fairhaven is the final “Merriweather book,” but don’t forget to embark on a tour of the next island in this series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.
The Independence Island Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.
Carolyn Miller lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. Together with her husband she has pastored a church for ten years, and worked as a public high school English and Learning and Support teacher.A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English Literature, and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. Her Regency novels include The Elusive Miss Ellison, The Captivating Lady Charlotte, The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey, Winning Miss Winthrop, Miss Serena’s Secret, The Making of Mrs. Hale, A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh, Underestimating Miss Cecilia, and Misleading Miss Verity, all available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, Koorong, etc Her contemporary novels include Restoring Fairhaven and Regaining Mercy, as part of the Independence Islands series.
It is both exciting and sad to read the last Merriweather book. I have do much enjoyed each one of these stories. But then we have another series to follow so that’s exciting too. I will forever hand on to my Merriweather series though! And I love anything Carolyn Miller writes so I knew this one was going to be amazing! I really enjoyed following Samantha and Max. Their story was so fun to follow. I love the attraction between these too and are they really ready for it, well we can see what happens. If you read the story because I don’t give spoilers! Ms. Miller did do a fantastic job creating wonderful characters that will quickly grab at your heartstrings and keep them. The plot flows so well and I love the descriptions of the beautiful gardens, which probably come from Ms. Miller’s own gardens. If you love a good contemporary sweet and clean read. This is a very good place to start.
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.
More from Carolyn
I’m a long time lover of gardens, plants, flowers and trees! I’m married to a horticulturalist, who once upon a time worked at Lyme Park, the site of Mr. Darcy’s magnificent Pemberley from the 1995 production of Pride and Prejudice, and who has also worked at Kew Gardens in England.
Some of my garden and plant highlights include visiting Blarney Castle’s Poison Garden in Ireland, New Zealand’s Hamilton Gardens, Dunrobin Castle in Scotland, Frederik Meijer Gardens in Michigan, the redwoods of Yosemite, California, Butchart Gardens in Victoria Island, Canada, and Jardin Botanique in Montreal, Canada.
I love to post pictures of flowers and trees on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/carolynmillerauthor/) and have included pictures of some of these places at my website (www.carolynmillerauthor.com) I have incorporated some of the gardens and plants in a number of my historical novels, including the gorgeous gardens at a castle in Scotland where I set Misleading Miss Verity.
I’m so excited to be introducing readers to my new contemporary books, where I can bring some of my love of gardens (& my hubby’s expertise!) to a new audience. Restoring Fairhaven sees readers introduced to a range of gardening experts who together will bring the gardens of the Independence Islands back to life.
If you’re someone who has enjoyed The Secret Garden, or Becky Wade’s My Stubborn Heart, you’ll be sure to enjoy this story of a reclusive writer and the gardening guru sent to restore his gardens – and his heart.
IF THEY KNEW WHO SHE WAS, THEY’D NEVER ACCEPT WHAT SHE’S BECOME.
Claire will stop at nothing to provide for her daughters. An unwed mother, she does everything possible to raise them whilst avoiding her scandalous past. Some secrets are best kept, even between mother and daughter. Alice longs for a father, especially if that means her mother will be happy. She takes matters into her own hands—but she never expected what she finds.
Despite her efforts to shelter her daughters, Claire’s ghosts rise up to haunt her, and any semblance of control over her life vanishes. If her secrets are uncovered, what will become of her family?
Kellyn Roth is a Christian historical women’s fiction & romance author from North-Eastern Oregon who has independently published multiple novels, the most notable being The Chronicles of Alice and Ivy series. You should definitely call her Kell.
Kell lives on family-owned property outside an unmemorable but historical town with her parents, two little brothers, arbitrary cat, precious border collies, a dozen cows, and lots of chickens. She also possesses a classic, vintage aesthetic which does not at all speak to her country girl side, but such is life.
When not writing, Kell likes to blog, teach writing to her various students, have day jobs which allow her to keep her car properly insured, and spend lavish amounts of money on Dairy Queen french fries.
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I find The Dressmaker’s Secret a very interesting and intriguing historical fiction to read. Claire has a good business and is raising her twins herself. No one knows or needs to know who the father is. This is one secret she will keep, even from her daughters. But Alice has a different story. She wants a father, and will search until she finds who he is.
This book takes many twists and turns, as Alice goes on her search for her father. Does she find him? Read the book and you will find out. I grew to love these characters. They developed well throughout the book, though sometimes things were not so easy. Author Kellyn Roth is new for me, and I enjoyed the way she handled the situations throughout the book, especially those that were tougher to deal with. I enjoyed her writing very much and can’t wait to read the next book in this series. If you enjoy historical fiction, you will enjoy 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.
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More from Kellyn
I’ve honestly never rewritten a book as many times as I rewrote The Dressmaker’s Secret, and I hope I never do.A first draft flew out of me one November when I was fourteen, and before the next November had come around, I’d gone through twelve drafts, changed points of view multiple times, and eventually rewrote the whole thing from scratch.The ending especially went through many, many versions … until at last I settled on the final. Or so I thought.Not long after, some more issues were called to light, and I revised again. And again. Years passed. I went through over twenty-five drafts! And, at the time, I liked all of them. Would I ever like one for longer than a month, though?Well, turns out, it was possible! I’m over a year and a half into loving my draft of The Dressmaker’s Secret – e.g. the published draft – and that’s not likely to change any time soon.This book taught me a lot. It practically taught me how to write – and edit! – a good book, and it made me really focus in on quality, even when it took some humility to admit I was wrong and critics were right – or, sometimes, that my gut was right. It taught me to not give up on something I love. It taught me that the risks I always wanted to take are worth taking. It taught me that no mistake is too great to be corrected … well, in some ways, at least.And it taught me that there’s a great God out there who has grace for all my delays and mistakes and learning experiences.So, that’s the story of how The Dressmaker’s Secret came to be written!
To celebrate her tour, Kellyn is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of both The Dressmaker’s Secret and Ivy Introspective, as well as a $25 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
If they expected silence, they hired the wrong woman.
This latest romantic legal thriller by bestseller Cara Putman shines a light on the shadowy world of scientific secrets and corporate vendettas—and the ethical dilemmas that plague the place where science and commerce meet.
Book Details:
Genre: Mystery/Suspense Published by: Thomas Nelson Publication Date: January 12, 2021 Number of Pages: 336 ISBN: 0785233318 (ISBN13: 9780785233312) Purchase Links:Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook.com | Goodreads
Read an excerpt:
Caroline shifted in the high-backed chair. The massive conference room table made her feel more petite than usual. Quentin Jackson, the man propelling Praecursoria through its rapid growth, vibrated with energy as he studied her.
“We are on the cusp of amazing developments and a transition from the lab to trials. We have a few CAR T-cell therapies in early stages now with more in our pipeline.”
She racked her mind for the importance of T cells, and he gave a hearty laugh.
“Don’t worry if the science overwhelms you. We’ll have you up to speed in no time. All you need to know right now is that T cells are one of the two cells that make up white blood cells. The treatments we’re working on could be the difference between life and death for young cancer patients. We need your legal expertise and quick mind to synthesize the science with the map to market.”
“I’ve overseen several court trials related to patents, which should help with that process.” It had been an unforeseen aspect of her days clerking for Judge Loren. She swallowed against the lump in her throat that still welled up when she thought about his untimely death from pneumonia. A month ago she couldn’t imagine interviewing for a job somewhere else, even if a part of her knew that she should stretch her wings.
“When can you start? Today?”
She felt rooted to the chair. Everything was moving so fast. Could she really transition her experience managing clerks for a judge into managing patents and contracts for a start-up? While Praecursoria had been around for a decade as a cancer research lab, about eighteen months ago Quentin sold off its lucrative genetic testing branch to focus exclusively on the development of cutting-edge CAR T-cell therapies. Starting over that way was a bold if risky move.
She lifted her chin and forced a smile that didn’t waver. “If that’s what you need. First we have a few details to work out.”
He laughed. “I like the way you tackle issues head-on. That will be key in this role. I know how to steer the ship, and my chief scientist can navigate the research, but you’ll keep us on the legal straight and narrow.” He tapped his pen against the legal pad in front of him. Then he picked up her résumé and named a salary that pressed her against the chair. “There will be performance bonuses tied to the successful conclusion of trials. We want to look into stock options as well. That will be one of your assignments in conjunction with HR.” He slapped his hands on the table and she jumped. “My enthusiasm gets away from me sometimes.” He shrugged but never wavered as he examined her. “Let’s start with a field trip. The best way for you to understand why we’re doing this work and research is to show you.”
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Excerpt from Lethal Intent by Cara Putman. Copyright 2021 by Cara Putman. Reproduced with permission from Thomas Nelson. All rights reserved.
Author Bio:
Cara Putman is the author of more than twenty-five legal thrillers, historical romances, and romantic suspense novels. She has won or been a finalist for honors including the ACFW Book of the Year and the Christian Retailing’s BEST Award. Cara graduated high school at sixteen, college at twenty, completed her law degree at twenty-seven, and recently received her MBA. She is a practicing attorney, teaches undergraduate and graduate law courses at a Big Ten business school, and is a homeschooling mom of four. She lives with her husband and children in Indiana.
This is a rafflecopter giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for Cara Putman. There will be three (3) winners of one (1) physical copy of Lethal Intent by Cara Putman (US ONLY). The giveaway begins on January 11, 2021 and runs through February 7, 2021. Void where prohibited.
Franklin Vine has worked hard to build the ranch he inherited into one of the most successful in the majestic Colorado mountains. If only he had an heir to one day inherit the legacy he’s building. But he was burned once in the worst way, and he doesn’t plan to open his heart to another woman. Even if that means he’ll eventually have to divide up his spread among the most loyal of his hired hands.
When Lorinda Sullivan is finally out from under the control of men who made all the decisions in her life, she promises herself she’ll never allow a man to make choices for her again. But without a home in the midst of a hard Rocky Mountain winter, she has to do something to provide for her infant son.
A marriage of convenience seems like the perfect arrangement, yet the stakes quickly become much higher than either of them ever planned. When hearts become entangled, the increasing danger may change their lives forever.
Lena Nelson Dooley has been an author for 36 years. Her 51st book released in June 2020. Raised in Arkansas, she married a Texan 56 years ago. They have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex for decades. She is an active member of ACFW and one of the founding members the DFW local chapter. She’s often been a speaker for other writers’ groups and conferences, both as a keynote speaker and a workshop teacher. Her fans love reading her books filled with characters who grip your heart.
A Heart’s Gift is set in the beautiful Colorado mountains, and a very good read. This is my first book by Lena Dooley and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. Dooley does an amazing job with the vivid descriptions of Colorado, bringing the lives of the people in the 1890’s Era to life. The rustic mountains wasn’t an easy place to live, a lot if hard work for everyone. These characters were so wonderful playing their parts so well. Their struggles were many, but the perseverance during their trials was real and strong. I appreciate the way this author weaves the Christian life in the lives of her characters, and brings faith to life between them. This is truly a story of forgiveness, faith, redemption and love, a strong and enjoyable couple. And even though we know what the ending will somewhat be, it was still so interesting and enjoyable to follow the journey with Franklin and Lorinda and witness all that happened between them.
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.
MORE FROM LENA
THE STORY BEHIND A HEART’S GIFT
I’ve been a lover of history for decades. In college and graduate school, all my elective courses were history. Of course, I chose the countries and eras I wanted to learn about. When I began writing novels, my first one was a contemporary story. After that at least 75% or more of my novels have been historical, from 1805 through the early 20th century.
I’ve always been fascinated by the relationship between Joseph and Mary the mother of Jesus. The Bible doesn’t give us a lot of information about their relationship. But by his actions, we can assume that Joseph believed the angel and Mary about her baby. He didn’t do the usual thing and put her away quietly. Instead, he protected her, and from the day He was born, he became the earthly father of Jesus. I’ve often thought about what that meant for Joseph and for Mary. When I wrote a story of a marriage between a man and a single mother, I used the emotions that I feel God has revealed to me about their relationship.
The first time I read a marriage of convenience novel, I loved it. And I’ve read quite a few. I’ve also written a few. A Heart’s Gift is one of them. This book was an easy and interesting book to write.
I’m what’s called in the industry a seat-of-the-pants author, more or less. I do have the complete outline of the story in my head. When I sit down to write, I know where I’m going, but I don’t have every single scene plotted out as some authors do. And I pray a lot. During the time I’m writing a book, God drops ideas into my mind. Not just while I’m writing, but other times, too. That’s the exciting thing about writing. This keeps it fresh for me.
During the writing of A Heart’s Gift, there’s a place where I just stopped and said, “God, what am I going to do now?” When you get there, you’ll know what scene I mean, but I don’t want to give a spoiler.
I never dreamed that the book would turn into a suspense novel in the last quarter of the book, but God knew. And it made it a better book.
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Glory Falls by Janine Rosche, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Glory Falls
Series: Madison River Romance #3
Author: Janine Rosche
Publisher: Berkley Books
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
Release Date: January 12, 2021
Two people scarred by past trauma have a chance to write a new chapter in their lives, overcome loss, and find love in the third entry in the Madison River Romance series.
Screenwriter Cecilia “Blue” Walker is victim to life’s worst plot twists. Having lost her daughter to the depths of the Madison River and her husband to the arms of another woman, she finds herself yearning for something to restore her brittle faith and once-vibrant career.
Hope arrives in the form of her childhood friend, Thomas Beck, a firefighter with a legacy of larger-than-life rescues who doesn’t see himself as a hero. Haunted by his past, Thomas only agrees to a movie adaptation of his story if Blue, his longtime crush, is the screenwriter.
However, as Blue and Thomas work together to bring his heroism to the big screen, the glitz and glamour of Hollywood threaten to shed light on secrets that could tear their fragile relationship and their lives apart.
This is the first book I have read by Janine Rosche, and this being book three in this series, I didn’t get to read the first two books. I found this ok for a stand alone, though it may have been a big more interesting reading them in order. Screenwriter Blue Walker is trying to regroup and start her life again after loosing her daughter in a tragic accident plus her husband ran off with another women, so life has been tough for her. Her childhood friend and firefighter Thomas Beck might just be the person who can help her.
This turns out to be a sweet romance, but it certainly didn’t come so easy. With both Thomas and Blue being so deeply flawed, they both needed much help. I really enjoyed this story. The characters and plot flows well, and I enjoyed watching the characters develop throughout the story. There were twists and turns that kept my attention as well.. The author does a very nice job of weaving everything together in the end to make an ending everyone would enjoy. I hope to read more from this author in the future.
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
Prone to wander, Janine Rosche finds as much comfort on the open road as she does at home. This longing to chase adventure, behold splendor, and experience redemption is woven into her Madison River Romance series. When she isn’t writing or traveling, she teaches family life education courses to college students, takes too many pictures of her sleeping dogs, and embarrasses her four children and husband with boy band serenades.
(1) winner will receive a Glory Falls prize package including a paperback copy of Glory Falls, a Society 6 Mountain Dusk Tote Bag, “Nevertheless She Persisted” Journal, Huckleberry Haven Candle, Kawaii Pen Shop Feather Bookmarks, and a $10 Amazon Gift Card! (total prize package value $60)
Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight January 25, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 1, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Join us for this tour from Jan 25 to Feb 12, 2021!
Book Details:
Book Title: Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure by Doreen M. Cumberford Category: Adult Non-Fiction (18 +), 288 pages Genre: Memoir Publisher: White Heather Press Release date: April, 2020 Tour dates: Jan 25 to Feb 12, 2021 Content Rating: G. There are no offensive scenes or language
Book Description:
Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure is what Doreen Cumberford, a Scottish author, calls her learnoire! It is a combination of her story and the stories of other expats learned while living in Saudi Arabia for 15 years as expat employees or spouses. The book takes the reader through the four stages of culture shock: arrival, honeymoon, frustration and adjustment stages to final acceptance followed by the return journey back to their home country – mostly the USA. From Saudi weddings, to falconry, to the inability of women to drive at that time, the book seeks to familiarize us with the Saudi culture, lifestyle, and deep traditions of hospitality, generosity and tolerance from an insider’s perspective. There are also chapters on the experiences of 9/11 in the terrorists’ home country and the “Terror Years” of internal terror tactics from inside Saudi Arabia designed to drive the expats out of the country and destroy the Saudi government. Full of examples, stories and compelling honesty the author describes their most challenging journey and many of the lessons learned in the process together. Designed to provide useful insights and inspiration to anyone considering living abroad, Life in the Camel Lane shines the light on the subject of building a new identity and home while abroad, and the difficulties of the journey home. Buy the Book: Amazon Add to Goodreads
Meet the Author
Doreen Cumberford is a Scottish expat author who has been global traveler for more than four decades. In her 20s Doreen left her home in Scotland and drove down to London to become a member of Her Majesty’s Diplomatic Service, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Her first posting was as the youngest and most junior British Embassy staffer in Cameroon, West Africa. Later she moved back to London and took a position with an American oil-field construction company based in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates. After moving to America, living in Louisiana then California, two extremely different cultures in the USofA, Doreen and family moved overseas to Japan then spent the following 15 years in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With 13 major moves under her belt, she understands the value of moving, building a new life and handling inter-cultural hurdles. One constant has been her ability to explore through the lens of adventure. Her stories are full of multi-cultural intelligence, messy multilingual communications and multi-global perspectives. Doreen is currently based on Denver, Colorado although spends most of the year living adventurously in the Housesitting Lane, which takes her around the globe. Currently she is doing her best to install Spanish in her brain which previously had French and smatterings of Japanese and Arabic. She is passionate about cultural intelligence, global heartedness and life on the road. Featured in the Anthology: Empowering Women, and a co-author in 2018 of Arriving Well: Stories About Identity, Belonging and Rediscovering Home After Living Abroad. 2020 sees the publication of Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure. Honest, compassionate, full of wisdom and inspiration, Life in the Camel Lane comprises stories mostly from women and men who lived in Saudi Arabia from 1950s onward. This memoir contains expert advice sage wisdom and stories that all globally mobile families can use to navigate their international journey. The principles in this book will also encourage anyone who is embracing a more adventurous life, or considering taking the leap to move overseas.
I love the title of this blog, as bringing Splashes of Joy into our daily lives is one of the greatest self-care and mental health strategies for living in our current day to day reality. Thank you Doreen for the reminder that we need Joy in our lives every day. What our world would be if we all had just a little splash of joy and love toward our fellow men and women.
With 2020 in our rear-view mirror, we all need a lift in our lives. I believe that mini-adventures when added into the recipe called our daily lives can add to and enhance the joyful spirits we naturally are.
But don’t let the word adventure put you off! Adventures are by their nature challenging: they require some measure of courage, frequently a journey is involved and there is usually a reward after you take them.
Having said this, it seems to me that very few of us are prepared for the nail-biting feats like climbing Mount Everest, Crossing the North Pole and all the extreme physical adventures that we hear about.
My current philosophy, particularly as I am in my sixth decade, is to approach life as a series of bite-sized adventures, similar to splashes of joy!
Now it’s easy to just throw those words down, but actually implementing this habit is going to require that we make decisions, follow through and complete projects in short bites – all huge tasks.
Here are a few ways to build these bit-sized adventures into your daily life:
Wake up and focus on adventure
Create yourself an affirmation and repeat it frequently: e.g. “I enter into adventure happening all around me today”
Take a small task and jazz it up, make it difficult, challenge yourself
Write down and record adventures you have enjoyed in the past
Paint something, write something, draw something, knit something, sew something – all adventures in being creative
Go for a walk in a park, look for someone interesting to observe, interact with – be playful
Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure was written to document and share the life lessons and opportunities to grow that we were naturally presented with on a daily basis in Arabia. Each of us no matter where we live has the same opportunity to turn our lives from merely a string of march-along-moments to amazing splashes of joy and bite-sized adventures.
Books can take our minds where our bodies cannot go, they can open us to distant possibilities and galvanize us into an action that can take us in the direction of adventure.
Today is all we have – grab it and go have a bite-sized adventure!
Book Details: Book Title: FACE FOOD: Eat Your Way to Tighter Brighter Younger Looking Skin by Gregory Landsman Category: Adult Non-Fiction (18 yrs +), 67 pages Genre: Beauty & Grooming; Health & Wellness; Self Help Publisher: Hill of Content Publishing Release date: December 2018 Tour dates: Jan 25 to Feb 12, 2021 Content Rating: G.https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/pYXMZV67-4aFxnDNm.htmlBook Description:
GIVE YOURSELF A NUTRITIONAL FACE LIFT – EAT YOUR WAY TO TIGHTER, BRIGHTER, YOUNGER LOOKING SKIN!
THE MOST POWERFUL ANTI-AGING INGREDIENTS CAN BE FOUND IN THE FOODS WE EAT. FACE FOOD IS FULL OF EASY TO MAKE RECIPES WITH FOOD SECRETS THAT ACHIEVE TIGHTER, BRIGHTER, YOUNGER LOOKING SKIN.
FACE FOOD can do for your skin what no expensive beauty cream can – it will show you how to give yourself a nutritional face lift. Find out how kidney beans plump and smooth the skin, a handful of almonds can give skin a healthy glow and how the little sardine reduces wrinkles and prevents age spots. FACE FOOD features easy to make recipes, revealing the most important natural foods, full of powerful age defying vitamins and minerals that are essential to nurturing and protecting your skin’s collagen – the key to keeping the skin firm and elastic.
Optimise the health of your skin with recipes to: • Counteract the aging process • Stimulate and protect collagen • Tighten skin and improve elasticity • Reduce fine lines and wrinkles • Protect skin with natural antioxidants • Increase the thickness and suppleness of skin • Restore skin radiance
Attaining youthful looking skin has never been more simple or effective! Book Excerpt – Face Food
Book Excerpt – FACE FOOD
FACE FOOD highlights that simple, tasty foods have the ability to flush your face with vitality, improve and change the quality and texture of your skin, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, increase firmness and combat premature aging.
While genetic factors play a major role in the way we age, so does the food that we eat. In fact our diet is one of the great anti-aging secrets to retaining or regaining beautiful skin. It’s all based on the basic principal that building and protecting collagen through the foods we eat is the foundation to healthy, youthful looking skin; as when we increase collagen, wrinkles begin to fade and skin regains its elasticity.
Dealing with faces every day as I have for many years, it is easy to see when skin has been deprived of nutrients. So whenever I recommend a skin solution I keep in mind that one of the most effective ways to protect and preserve our skin at any age involves eating the right skin renewing foods.
Many of the natural foods we eat hold age-defying vitamins and minerals that are essential to give the skin radiance, while supporting, hydrating and maintaining the health of the skin. They are also the key to building collagen.
You may ask why building collagen is so important. Simply because collagen is the protein in connective tissue that keeps the skin elastic. However, the fibres in these tissues can become weak and damaged through free radicals, which impact our skin both inside and out as a result of different lifestyle elements such as bad food, sun damage, smoking, pollution, excess alcohol, and the list goes on! However, collagen cannot be absorbed from a beauty cream as the molecules are too large to penetrate the skin’s cells. This means the most effective solution is either topically applying the right ingredients (see Face Value), or eating foods full of skin regenerating vitamins and minerals that naturally renew, stimulate and protect collagen.
The quick and easy recipes in this book are power packed with skin building ingredients to help your skin be the best it can be. For me cooking is not only a wonderful reminder that sharing food with those we love nurtures their health and skin from the inside out, but that the true essence of our beauty is in sharing the spirit of our humanity in all that we do.
My personal philosophy on B.E.A.U.T.Y. is…
Balance in our life unfolds from the inside out.
Enthusiasm lies within the way we think and feel about ourselves.
Acceptance is the path to making peace with ourselves and others.
Understanding ourselves gives us clarity and wisdom to know what we want, and importantly, what we don’t.
Trust attunes our heart and mind so we can nurture spontaneity and adventure in our lives, and see that…
You have what it takes to create the life and love you know you deserve and to never settle for anything less.
So while our skin is the largest organ in the body and we need to look after it, it is important to remain true to our beauty by never forgetting that laughter and humor play a major role in experiencing it and feeling it.
“After all, the beauty we feel is the beauty we live.” – Gregory Landsman
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FACE FOOD by Gregory Landsman
Q1. WHAT IS THE BEST ANTIOXIDANT-RICH FOOD FOR OVERALL HEALTH AND PREVENTION OF PREMATURE AGING?
There is no one particular food that will do this. A balanced diet rich in skin boosting vitamins, minerals and anti oxidants is the best way improve the overall health our skin.
People suffering from a variety of skin concerns are often amazed at the improvements that come as a result of simply changing their diet. It is a simple but powerful reminder that some of our greatest anti aging solutions can be found in natural foods.
Q2. WHAT IS ONE OF THE WORST THINGS WE CAN EAT FOR OUR SKIN?
One of the worst things for skin health is refined sugar. Sugar in any form (desserts, drinks or alcohol) mimics the stress hormone in the body, which means that when we eat it, we are more likely to feel anxious and uptight. Sugar also induces the glycation process that weakens collagen. So consuming sugar on a regular basis not only creates skin stress, but also stresses the body.
So if you are a sweet tooth choose dark chocolate, as it is loaded with powerful anti-oxidants and flavanols that can improve blood flow to the skin. When I feel like something sweet I eat dark chocolate with slices of fresh orange wedges. This combination not only tastes great, but it does great things for your skin as well.
Q3. DO YOU FIND IT DIFFICULT TO EAT HEALTHILY AS A LIFESTYLE APPROACH?
I don’t find it difficult to eat healthily, but this is because I approach food with a friendly mindset. I know many people who set intentions not to eat a particular food ever again, but extreme approaches create tensions in our daily life that we don’t need.
I practice the 80-20 rule, which means that eighty per cent of what I eat is healthy and twenty per cent allows me to indulge in things that I would not normally eat everyday. It is not one meal that impacts the overall health of your skin, but what you do regularly on a day-to-day basis.
Q4. MANY VEGETARIANS ONLY EAT TOFU. DOES IT HAVE ANY SKIN BENEFITS?
Soy products such soy milk and tofu contains a soy isoflavone called Genistein, which stimulates collagen production and helps to block free radicals that break collagen down and age the skin.
Natural foods that can support and protect our skin can be found so easily when we know where to look. That is why I firmly believe that with knowledge it becomes very easy to look after the health of our skin at every age.
Q5. YOU ADVOCATE TO USE SALT MODERATELY. WHY?
Plump, healthy, hydrated skin relies on us being mindful of our sodium intake. Consuming too much salt in our diet is an easy thing to do, but it draws water out the skin, which makes it more prone to premature aging.
Too much salt in the diet leaves skin dry, weakens skins elasticity and makes it more susceptible to wrinkling. But the great thing about our taste buds is that we can retrain them. So if you currently eat with a lot of salt, reduce that amount slowly and you will find your taste buds start adjusting as they become used to the taste of less salt.
Q6. YOU OFTEN MENTION THAT WE SHOULD COUNT OUR BLESSINGS NOT OUR CALORIES. WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THAT?
Food can create enormous amounts of stress for people and while they are busy counting their calories, they are often depriving their bodies of essential nutrients.
Depriving our bodies of certain foods stresses the body and that is the last thing we want to do.
For example many people cut all fat from their diet and turn to low fat foods without realising that cutting out fat from their diet is one of the quickest way to age the skin and take away that natural glow.
I often see many models doing this. Yet extreme low fat diets age the skin rapidly, resulting in dry, wrinkled skin around the mouth and the eyes.
The opposite is also true. While a no fat diet can take away that youthful glow, adding good fats to your diet can bring it back. Good fats include the monounsaturated fats found in extra virgin olive oil, flaxseeds, walnuts, avocados, coconut oil and omega-3 fats in fish. These fats moisturise and plump the skin from the inside out, smooth out fine lines and give the skin a healthy, vital glow.
Looking after our skin needs to be approached holistically. Eating should not be about feeling guilty or breaking dietary rules, but making positive nutritional choices that support us to feel good, as well as look good.
Counting our blessings is about knowing that we are enough as we are, and from that point we can make decisions about positive self care and eating food that supports our overall health and wellbeing. When it comes to preventing premature aging and looking our best at every age, you can’t beat natural foods.
To receive a free copy of Gregory’s e-book, STOP SKIN AGING PREMATURELY, which includes a list of the most powerful cortisol lowering foods that help reduce stress and wrinkles go to: https://gregorylandsman.com/
The complete solution to PREMATURE AGING. The simple, effective, science-based methods in these three books give everyone the opportunity to achieve younger, healthier looking skin at any age…for next to nothing!
Get your skin back on track after the holidays with the most powerful anti-aging ingredients found in everyday foods.
Fulfill a new years resolution to look your best self at every age with simple effective methods to achieve younger, healthier looking skin that will take years off the face.
Spend some time nurturing yourself and take years off your face for next to nothing.
This new year get the same results as expensive cremes without having to leave your kitchen.
Each book stands alone, focusing on a different method to achieving younger looking skin i.e. Face Value – DIY topical treatments; Face Fitness – facial exercise; and Face Food – anti-aging foods). Together they represent the ultimate guide to younger, healthier and more vital looking skin at any age. “With knowledge and know how we can counteract and prevent premature aging, as small changes make a big difference to the way we age over time.” Gregory Landsman
Meet the Author:
Gregory Landsman is one of the most noted global beauty and wellness experts in the world, a best selling author of nine books, and a TV host who specializes in using food to take years off the face naturally.
Having worked in the beauty industry for 30+ years Gregory believes that looking youthful goes well beyond waging war on wrinkles, and that how we age is 100% controllable. His natural methods are used globally by models, shown in universities and recommended by doctors.
Often referred to as ‘The Beauty Advisor’, Gregory’s books and global TV program Face Lifting Food show viewers how to create quick skin-boosting meals and powerful skin treatments using everyday foods to achieve younger, healthier looking skin at any age.
Gregory is a strong voice for inclusion. His book, Faith Lifting Prayers is a celebration of humanity and captures his journey of extremes; from Apartheid South Africa to working at the height of the fashion industry, and his fundamental discovery that regardless of what we do, how we look cannot be separated from how we feel. This is why all of his books, even those about looking younger, all feature his own quotes and philosophy about the importance of feeling good in our skin. His book A Lifetime of BEAUTY also shares messages for early teens and middle years about embracing our differences and our individuality; finding happiness; and standing strong in a world that often judges us for the way we look. This book is endorsed for inclusion in the education system.
Book Title: Good Grammar Is the Life of the Party: Tips for a Wildly Successful Life by Curtis Honeycutt Category: Adult Non-Fiction, 18 yrs +, 244 pages Genre: How-To, Humor, Grammar and Writing Reference Publisher: The County Publishing Release date:May, 2020 Content Rating: PG-13: “I write “hell,” “damn,” and “shit” a few times. Maybe “ass.” .”
Book Description:
Grammar rules! Good Grammar is the Life of the Party: Tips for a Wildly Successful Life will convert grammar goofballs into bonafide word nerds. As the writer of the award-winning humor column “Grammar Guy,” Curtis Honeycutt’s grammar advice appears in dozens of newspapers every week. His debut book—filled with witty word wisdom—is designed to make
your life more awesome by improving your grammar. Do you love language, but sometimes get tripped up by confusing grammar rules? Good Grammar is the Life of the Party is like a cheat code for your social life. Level up your grammar game to become a linguistic legend—from romantic relationships to job promotions to getting invited to fancy roof
parties. Climb the corporate ladder, convince people you’re smart, and win at life with dozens of helpful tips on how to master the English language.
Curtis Honeycutt, Author of Good Grammar is the Life of the Party: Tips for a Wildly Successful Life
Live long and grammar.
When I started working at a new company, I was disappointed to learn that an “enterprise” account had absolutely nothing to do with voyaging spaceships. Instead, enterprise accounts are the “big fish” your team reels in so that your proverbial corporate boat stays afloat.
I hate to critique Captain Kirk, but when he utters “to boldly go where no man has gone before,” he’s technically breaking a grammar rule. Or is he? I know William Shatner (who famously played Captain James T. Kirk) is Canadian; does that hamper his grasp on correct English grammar?
“To boldly go” is an example of a split infinitive. Up until now, the only thing I was worried about splitting was my pants.
So, what’s an infinitive, anyway?
An infinitive is almost always a two-word verb phrase with the word to in front of the verb. Examples of infinitives include to sneeze, to cry, to dance and to fail. A split infinitive occurs when you put an adverb between to and the verb. It’s as if the adverb is rudely cutting in on you and your date at the prom, which makes you want to take the adverb out to the parking lot and punch it in the throat. Examples of split infinitives include to loudly sneeze, to softly cry, to confidently dance and to utterly fail.
So, what’s the big deal? Are split infinitives a definitive no-no in English? Not necessarily.
The anti-split infinitive movement grew from a handful of prominent English grammarians in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries who had nothing better to do than to try to bend popular opinions on English grammar rules to those of Latin. By now, these grammarians are all dead, so they don’t get a say anymore.
With that said, it’s probably a good idea to avoid split infinitives in your formal writing; many still view split infinitives as at least quasi-incorrect grammar usage. But, could you imagine the introduction of a classic show like Star Trek where Kirk says “…to go boldly where no man has gone before”? Pop (and nerd) culture just wouldn’t be the same. I’ll split with the grammar
snobs and cling on to the Trekkers on this one.
The big question you may be asking yourself is: who has better grammar—Star Wars or Star Trek fans? Believe it or not, I can answer this one for you. Star Trek fans are better grammarians.
Grammarly studied nearly 2,000 fan comments on both the Star Trek and Star Wars Reddit fan communities. According to the data, Trekkers have a 98.2% grammatical accuracy, while Star Wars fans have an accuracy score of 94.6%. Jedi devotees’ largest gaffes involve punctuation while Klingon supporters suffer most from grammar errors. Does that make one franchise better than the other? I’ll let the respective devotees continue to duke it out with their lightsabers and pointy ears. I’ve never really gotten into any of the “Star” movies. One sun is plenty for this pasty coppertop to deal with, so please don’t beat me up because I don’t care about “beam me up.”
—Curtis Honeycutt is a syndicated humor columnist. He is the author of Good Grammar is the Life of the Party: Tips for a Wildly Successful Life. Find more at curtishoneycutt.com.
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Curtis Honeycutt, Author of Good Grammar is the Life of the Party: Tips for a Wildly Successful Life
How did you become a grammar expert?
During college, I was an English major for an entire semester. After that, I switched to religious studies. Clearly, I’m never going to be afflicted with wealth, but I love writing and mastering the rules of the English language.
How did you organize your book?
I used my syndicated newspaper columns as jumping-off points for the content of my book, but then I sorted them into different ways the subjects of each essay could improve your life: your social life, your love life, your work life, your life in general, and how nerds rule the world with good grammar. There is an index at the back of the book for people who want to find specific grammar things.
Why do you write for newspapers?
I love newspapers and believe they have an enormous value to our local communities. Local newspapers are the only place you’ll hear about city council meetings, local construction, and high school sports teams. My “Grammar Guy” columns show up every week in all kinds of papers, from one-stoplight small towns to large metro areas. Without having newspapers as a jumping-off point, there would be no book.
In your book, you write about your fear of horses. Why are you terrified of horses?
They can sense our fear, and our fear makes them wild with equine rage. Seriously, though, I share a terrifying horse story about a time my wife and I went to Arizona. My horse was evil incarnate and my head was too big for the riding place’s helmets. I thought I was going to end up being impaled by a cactus.
How do you use social media to promote your writing?
I like to share nerdy grammar cartoons I find on the web. I regularly ask Facebook and Instagram followers if they have new grammar topics they’d like me to cover. Between social media and my monthly newsletter, I like to think people get free “bonus” content that they don’t get in my weekly grammar column.
What advice would you give to budding writers?
Write something that only you can write. Even if you’re writing in a genre or about a subject that is familiar to others, you have a unique voice and perspective from which you can do your version of it. Don’t simply copy the latest trendy teen vampire love triangle trend; instead, write about something that gets you excited, and do it in a way that only you can. If that’s teen vampire love triangles, then write about teen vampire love triangles in a way that no one else has ever done it!
What is your next project?
I’m going to start a mustard review blog. I really like different types of mustards and would like to officially rate and review them. Always use a condiment.
—Curtis Honeycutt is a syndicated humor columnist. He is the author of Good Grammar is the Life of the Party: Tips for a Wildly Successful Life. Find more at curtishoneycutt.com.
Meet the Author:
Curtis Honeycutt started writing about grammar in his local newspaper. His column, Grammar Guy, has since won multiple awards and now appears in newspapers across the U.S. Originally from Oklahoma, Honeycutt now lives in Indiana with his wife, Carrie, and their two children, Miles and Maeve.
Book Title: Dying to Belong: How I Accidentally Found Myself by Diane Mullins Category: Adult Non-Fiction (18+), 178 pages Genre: Memoir Publisher: Funshine Publishing Release date: March 2020 Format available for review: print (USA and Canada), ebook (PDF) Tour dates: Jan 13 to Feb 2, 2021 Content Rating: PG-13 due to a few cuss words Book Description:
As a very shy, meek, and insecure little girl, Diane Mullins grew up the youngest of seven children in an abusive family. Never shown or taught how to love or be loved, Diane grew up with no self-confidence or self-esteem. Who knew that it would take a near-fatal accident to help her find her way to self-love and spiritual freedom? In Dying to Belong, Diane shares her story that begins at the scene of a body- and spirit-crushing ATV accident. Forced to ride out of the wilderness area herself, she arrived at the hospital to discover broken bones, ruptured organs, and a punctured lung. She was literally on the doorstep of death. During the excruciating process of physical healing, Diane began exploring a spiritual journey that led to loving, accepting, and respecting herself. Diane learned the empowering lesson that by changing her thoughts and feelings, she has been able to live a life of freedom from negativity and pain. Buy the Book: Amazon.com Add to Goodreads
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Diane Mullins gives readers an account of her life when she wasn’t her full self. Didn’t feel she could love or that anyone loved her. It was a lonely life when she didn’t feel she belonged. I admire this lady so much for actually telling the world of the dark places in her life. There are so many emotions flying around in the pages of this book. As I read Diane’s story, I was first laughing out loud at what she was telling, and then there were the times where tears couldn’t help but fall. This book made me take a deep look at my life, at myself because there are many times I have these same negative feelings. The same longings I have wondering if I indeed belong. I think everyone, especially women can identify with something in Diane’s story. I encourage you to pick up a copy of Dying to Belong to read for yourself. If you enjoy reading memoirs and biographies, you will enjoy reading 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.
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GUEST POST FROM AUTHOR
“Are you OK?” he asked.
“No,” I replied.
We just crashed
But there’s no way; that can’t be. I’ve never crashed before. This can’t be real; this cannot be happening. I lay there trying to figure out what just happened, trying to assess both the situation and my body. I wasn’t sure yet if I could even move; nope, I couldn’t. As a former gymnast and fitness competitor, I was very in tune with my body, so I knew when something was out of whack and something was definitely not right. Was I paralyzed? Could I move? I knew I couldn’t breathe very well. I knew that I was in excruciating pain and that I had just been in an ATV accident. I knew that I was alive, literally alive, but severely broken.
Alive? What does that really mean? Literally speaking, alive and breathing. Figuratively, it means full of energy, spunky, and spirited. But I haven’t always been alive, full of energy, or vivacious. That was something that definitely came later in life for me. As a kid, I just existed, no plans, no agenda, no goals; I functioned in survival mode most of my life. Very shy and introverted, I pretty much kept to myself, especially as a young child and adolescent.
Meet the Author:
Diane Mullins has a master’s degree in psychology from Grand Canyon University where she learned how to manage, inspire, and motivate people. She has spent most of her life working in private dental offices as a dental hygienist. Diane is a certified health/life coach, which has allowed her to help others with weight loss, setting goals, and motivation. Now as an author she tells her own story of a tragic accident that taught her things crucial to her own wellbeing and the possibility of helping others in a whole new way.
Book Title: It’s Me by Jeff Kubiak Category: Middle-Grade Non-Fiction (Ages 8-12), 57 pages Genre: Children’s/Middle Grade, Non-fiction, own voices Publisher: EduMatch Publishing Release date: November 14, 2020 Format available for review: print, ebook (PDF) Will send print books out: USA Tour dates: Jan 25 to Feb 12, 2021 Content Rating: PG. Although the book reads like a graphic novel, it does contain topics dealing with racism and other social issues. Book Description:
It’s Me is dedicated to every person who has ever felt less about who they are or want to be because of someone else’s opinion, feelings, or prejudice. Let’s ditch the prejudiced labeling, and embrace our Human Race for the diversity, inclusivity, equity, and individuality we all deserve. Buy the Book Amazon ~ B&N ~ Bookshop add to Goodreads
It’s me is a fascinating and interesting book that is written for today’s world. So many children suffer because of not being seen for who they really are. It is not just one race or color, it is all children. I saw this growing up, because I was one that was a little different, so I wasn’t seen for who I was but who people tagged me I was. And many years later, that still stings. Today, I’m glad to see books such as this one to help kids understand its OK to be different. It’s ok to be just as you are, because God made us a unique, and who can compete with that!
Author Jeff Kubiak does a fantastic job writing this book, and his love for children is evident in the words he writes. This is an amazing book for any classroom. I think it is also a great book for families and can be a good conversation starter. If you need help teaching your child how to accept others as they are, this is a great book to help you.
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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AND NOW AN INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR
Hello Jeff Kubiak. Thank you for taking the time to chat with us, and for sharing your book, It’s Me!
• Why this topic? Why now? That is a fantastic question. Is there really a BAD time to write about equity, inclusion, racism and bias? Over the last few years, there has been more of a need to help empower those who may need voice. If you look at people and groups that have been marginalized, stigmatized, oppressed and labeled; the timing to help is more imperative than ever. We have too much hatred in this world, and many people do not take the time to “see” us for the strengths, uniqueness, qualities, and awesomeness that we all really have.
• What are some “non writing” hobbies you enjoy? I love spending time with my amazing wife, Piper and my two kids, Keeley and Braden. We love beaches, hiking, biking, and just hanging out. While it has been a challenge during Covid19, we still manage to give each other space, hang out, laugh and enjoy each other.
• If there was one thing in education that you could change today, what would it be? It would be to remove all racism and hatred. If this happened, the level of equity, inclusion, compassion, and kindness would be exponentially increased. You would see all students receiving what they need to thrive and grow. Our ability to work together would be increased. The level of innovation, global crisis, creativity, and pure academic improvement would be light years ahead of where we are now. Let’s embed this in our early education and make this mandatory in all schools!
• What are some challenges of being an author? I am still very new to being a published author, but from what I have experienced, it is getting the word out for others to enjoy your work. There are so many great books, and authors, that it is very hard to expose a wide variety of people who may not know you or your work to be able to see it. Unless you are a famous, best selling author, or a celebrity, it is difficult to show the world what you feel is important.
• If you could sum yourself up to our readers and listeners in one sentence, what would you say? Jeff Kubiak puts himself out there everyday trying to empower others, and help make our world a better place for ALL people.
Meet the Author:
Jeff loves children’s literature , “One Drop of Kindness” is Jeff’s first published children’s book. It’s Me reads like a fun graphic novel, but it is entirely non fiction. Every character in the book is a real student, or educator. It is so important for us to give access, equity, inclusion, and compassion to all those we meet. “Seeing” each other and embracing our differences are jewels to life! Jeff taught for ten years as an elementary school teacher in grades 4, 5, and 6 and has seven years of administrative experience. He’s always looked at education from a different lens: from someone who hated and struggled with school. Jeff vows to always do his best to help increase opportunities for all students to feel heard, noticed, celebrated, challenged and safe. Jeff works hard to push back against the old model of “Industrialized Education” and fight compliance. There is not a day that goes by that he is not looking ahead to improve teacher pedagogy, student engagement and digital access for all. Being a former world class swimmer and coach and looks at education from perspectives that others don’t. Jeff knows what it takes to fail, struggle, win and go through the daily challenges that we all face. Jeff is based in California and can be found at jeffkubiak.com, Twitter at @jeffreykubiak and https://jeffkubiak.blogspot.com/.
It can be hard for us to admit we are dissatisfied with our spiritual life. That we are in a place where going to church is not yielding the victory we desire. A place where we pray things like, “God, I will never do that again,” yet find ourselves doing it again and again.
If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you are in fact a new creation. How would you like to start really experiencing that new life? Once you do, you will discover a world of unlimited spiritual possibilities.
Being a Christian is a mystery in which Christ lives in us through a radical transformation of our spiritual DNA. We have a relationship with the living Jesus that changes every dynamic of our life. And we are given our own access code, which is the Word of God. This is how we enter into the benefits and features of our new life.
What you need in order to overcome sin, sickness, poverty, and defeatism is to become conscious of, and intimate with, the indwelling Christ. Once you do, you will never again be manipulated by fear and insecurity. You won’t be caught in a vicious cycle of striving for God’s love and acceptance. You will be confident in your new identity, which will empower you to live the supernatural life God intends for you. You will operate in revelation knowledge, wisdom, spiritual understanding, and miracles. The bondage of sin, shame, and condemnation will be released by the power of the Holy Spirit. Demons won’t be able to oppress you because you will have an overwhelming consciousness of God’s love.
Whether you are a new Christian or a long-time believer who has never been able to fully apply Christ’s victory to your life, Unlocking the Code of the Supernatural will help you become all God created you to be. You will no longer be a victim, defeated, or broken. God wants to use you for His glory! From this day forward, there are no more limitations on your life.
Dr. Kynan T. Bridges is the senior pastor of Grace & Peace Global Fellowship in Tampa, Florida. With a profound revelation of the Word of God and a dynamic teaching ministry, Dr. Bridges has revolutionized the lives of many in the body of Christ. Through his practical approach to applying the deep truths of the Word of God, he reveals the authority and identity of the new covenant believer. A highly sought speaker and published author of several books, including School of the Miraculous, The Power of Prophetic Prayer, Invading the Heavens, Unmasking the Accuser, and Kingdom Authority. Dr. Bridges is also a committed husband to Gloria and father of five beautiful children: Ella, Naomi, Isaac, Israel, and Anna.
Read an Excerpt
FROM THE PREFACE
God wants us to live a supernatural lifestyle, full of His grace and power! He wants us to be free of problems that hinder us from moving forward in life, such as fear, guilt, and depression. He desires that we move in miracles, signs, and wonders as we expand His kingdom on earth.
However, many believers never enter into a supernatural lifestyle because they are held back by false ideas of what it means to be a Christian, how they should relate to their heavenly Father, and how to be led by the Spirit—misconceptions that have been entrenched in their minds for years.
What will unlock the code of the supernatural in our lives, enabling us to live a dynamic, Spirit-filled life?
Through my study of God’s Word, personal experiences, and ministry to thousands of Christians, I have found that when we don’t have a clear understanding of what it means to be brand-new in Christ, we block the flow of God’s Spirit within us. Unless we truly know who we are in Jesus, we will lack confidence in His ability to work miracles through us. If we rely on our own efforts rather than the power of the Holy Spirit within us, we will constantly be frustrated. If we feel trapped and condemned by our past, believing God would never be able to use us because of our bad choices or failures—or what others have done to us—we will be hindered from walking in the supernatural.
I have designed this book to unveil the various facets of what it means to be a new creation in Christ and live according to the Spirit. We will look at a number of key Scriptures, especially from the Gospels and the Epistles, that relate to this theme. These Scriptures, reviewed in sequence, will strengthen our understanding of our life in Christ, reinforcing vital biblical truths until we gain a full picture of our spiritual newness. In this way, with each chapter, we will progressively renew our minds to unlock the code of the supernatural and find the secret to God’s power in us.
The Christmas PromiseBy Janice Carter Contemporary Romance Paperback & ebook, 216 Pages January 1, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming
The Christmas season…
Is perfect for new beginnings
After a tragedy seventeen years ago, author Ella Jacobs never wanted to come back to Lighthouse Cove. Not to the whispered rumors, the judgment or even to Ben Winters, the boy she loved. Now she’s returned in time for Christmas—and some much-needed closure. But old flames burn bright. Can Ella find her way back to Ben…or will the secrets of their past extinguish their love for good?
Second chance at love stories are always so heartwarming, and I just love this one. In The Christmas Promise Ella Jacobs returns to Lighthouse Cove after being away 17 years. She needs to find closure, even in the town that drove her away years ago, with their Whispers and blame. But can she still find love with Ben after so many years?
This is a story full of guilt, heartaches and hurts, but also a story if healing and forgiveness, and maybe even a second chance with someone she’s loved all these years. I fell in love with these flawed characters. The author does an amazing job with emotions that are all over the place in this story. The plot is well created and flows smoothly throughout this story. With a sweet ending that is predictable, but it is so much fun following the chapters and what they go through until the sweet ending. If you love a sweet romance with lots of emotions and flawed characters, this is an awesome one to try. I give this one 5 stars.
<span;>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
Writing has been a passion for Janice Carter since elementary school but her second career after teaching began with the publication of a Harlequin Intrigue, many years ago. Since then, she’s been very lucky to be able to do what she enjoys most – writing about the connections between people, their families and the places where they live. And of course, love is always at the heart of those connections.
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for For the Love of Joy by Janet W. Ferguson, hosted byJustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Series: Coastal Hearts
Author: Janet W. Ferguson
Release Date: January 1, 2021
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance / Southern rom-com
Years ago, a Dear John letter and then an IED explosion overseas rocked Davis Donnelly’s world and left him unclear about his marital status. He’d signed divorce papers, but broken mentally and physically, he’d never bothered to find out if his marriage actually ended. Now that he’s about to start a new position as an outreach minister, it’s time to settle things once and for all. At the moment he tracks down his wife—or former wife?—she takes a tumble while chasing a little boy. Her son. And that’s when life flips upside down.
Joy Jennings Donnelly made her share of mistakes. But one thing she never considered a mistake was her child, and she’ll do anything to protect him. Even keep his paternity a secret.
When she’s suddenly injured with not a soul to help her or her son, Joy is forced to rely on the man who has the most reasons to hate her.
Wow! Another amazing read from Janet W. Ferguson! Joy and Davis were married years ago, but the marriage ended years ago, starting with a Dear John letter, followed by an injury while he was overseas serving his county. Or so Davis thought. But he better make sure before he starts his new ministry. But things didn’t happen as Davis thought. And Davis’ world was completely turned upside down.
Janet W. Ferguson does an amazing job of creating amazing characters and bringing them to life throughout the pages of this book. We get to reconnect with some characters from previous books as well as meet new one in For the Love of Joy. I enjoyed following Joy and Davis grow as the story unfolds. And little Hankie was adorable. I love how the whole bunch fell in love with him, and especially Davis. Ferguson does a phenomenal job in dealing with the very difficult issues in this story. And I love and appreciate her weaving faith and the Christian life into her characters. This is truly a story of love, forgiveness, redemption and second chances. I can’t wait for the next book from Ms. Ferguson. This one us a 5 plus Stars!! Wish I could give it more. If you love a sweet contemporary read, this one is a great place to start.
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.
Janet W. Ferguson is a Grace Award winner, FHL Readers Choice Winner, and a Christy Award finalist. She grew up in Mississippi and received a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Mississippi. She has served as a children’s minister and a church youth volunteer. An avid reader, she worked as a librarian at a large public high school. She writes humorous inspirational fiction for people with real lives and real problems. Janet and her husband have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a cat that allows them to share the space.
(1) winner will receive a wetcat Hug Yourself Turkish beach towel, beach bookmark, Meyers lavender soy candle, signed book, note, and shell from the author! Dream beach 2021!
Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight January 19, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 26, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
TOUR FULLJoin us for this tour from Jan 6to Jan 26, 2021!
Book Details:
Book Title: The Ultimate Betrayal (a Maximum Security Novel) by Kat Martin Category: Adult Fiction (18 yrs +), 464 pages Genre: Romantic Suspense, Thriller Publisher: HQN Release date: December 29, 2020 Tour dates: Jan 6 to Jan 26, 2021
Book Description:
When her father is accused of espionage and treason, journalist Jessie Kegan has no doubt the man she looked up to her entire life is innocent. Worse yet, before Colonel Kegan can stand trial, he’s found dead of a heart attack…but Jessie knows it was murder. Forcing aside her grief, she’s determined to use her investigative resources to clear her father’s name. But going after the truth means Jessie soon finds herself in the crosshairs of a killer who wants that truth to stay buried with her father. Protecting Jessie Kegan is a job bodyguard Brandon Garrett can’t refuse. Jessie isn’t just a client at Maximum Security—she’s the sister of his best friend, Danny, who was killed in Afghanistan. With dangerous enemies gunning for Jessie from every angle, keeping her safe will mean keeping her close, and Bran finds their mutual attraction growing, though being Danny’s sister puts Jessie out of bounds. With their backs against the wall, Jessie and Bran will have to risk everything to expose her father’s killer—before his legacy dies with his daughter. Buy the Book: Amazon ~ B&N ~ Indiebound kobo ~ Google ~ Apple Add to Goodreads
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BOOK TITLE: THE ULTIMATE BETRAYAL
AUTHOR: Kat Martin
AN INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR
What would you like readers to understand about Jessie and Bran, and their perilous journey to love?
Though I’ve written more than 70 books in my long career and I loved writing them all, some are my special favorites. The Ultimate Betrayal is one of those books. Bran and Jessie were just so much fun! I think they really got each other and that was one of the reasons liked the book so much.
How did you do research for The Ultimate Betrayal?
I do most of my research on the Internet. This was a very difficult book since it dealt with the U.S. Army and a real Chemical Depot in Colorado.
Can you tell us a little bit about your next books or what you have planned for the future? THE PERFECT MURDER is my upcoming release, Reese Garrett’s story. Reese is the middle Garrett brother, CEO of Garrett Resources, a huge oil and gas company in headquartered in Dallas. In the story, Reese fights his attraction to his executive assistant, McKenzie Haines, who is helping him with the purchase of an offshore drilling rig. It’s a sexy, very high-action thriller, out in hardcover June 29th of next year.
What is your publishing journey story?
I’ve had big breaks and total disasters. I’ve worked for almost all the big publishers in NYC and Canada and had 6 different agents. I’m still writing full time. And like all other authors, hoping bookstores soon reopen.
If you could put yourself as a character in your book, who would you be?
I’d be the heroine, of course, getting rescued by the gorgeous and sexy hero.
Do you snack while writing? Favorite snack?
No, I don’t snack because it’s a terrible habit for a writer, who sits so many hours a day. It’s recipe for gaining weight.
What’s your favorite scent?
Lilacs and gardenias
If you could go back in time, where would you go?
I love the old West, so maybe there, but if I could be one of the aristocracy, I would definitely go back to Regency or Victorian England.
What is one of the scariest things that has happened to you?
My husband and I spent the night in a haunted house. (not on purpose.). It was terrifying. I wrote a novel called The Silent Rose which is based on what happened that night. (Though I did turn it into a romance.)
How can readers reach you?
You can find me on Facebook and Instagram at Kat Martin Author or contact me through my webpage www.katmartin.com. I always answer if I get an email.
Meet the Author:
Bestselling author Kat Martin, a graduate of the University of California at Santa Barbara, currently resides in Missoula, Montana with Western-author husband, L. J. Martin. More than seventeen million copies of Kat’s books are in print, and she has been published in twenty foreign countries. Fifteen of her recent novels have taken top-ten spots on the New York Times Bestseller List, and her novel, BEYOND REASON, was recently optioned for a feature film. Kat’s latest novel, THE ULTIMATE BETRAYAL, a Romantic Thriller, was released in paperback December 29th.
Title: Glory Falls
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