Interview for What Color is God’s Love by Xochitl Dixon

About the Book

Book: What Color is God’s Love?

Author: Xochitl Dixon

Genre: Children’s Picture Book

Release date: March 19, 2024

All the colors displayed in this world that God made—
every glorious, fabulous, beautiful shade—
show how good God is and will always be.
But what is the color of love? Come and see!
In What Color is God’s Love?, a little girl and her service dog join their diverse friends through a
whirlwind of adventures. As they celebrate the spectacular spectrum of colors God designed,
each color invites readers to explore their God-given emotions and becomes a reminder of God’s
unchanging character. While encouraging children to acknowledge God’s constant presence with every turn of the page,
What Color is God’s Love? also empowers children, with and without disabilities, to play, work,
and serve God together, by simply letting the colors of His love shine through them.
With each turn of the page, the focus shifts to a specific color—orange, yellow, blue, green, pink,
black, white, gray, brown, red, purple. Each lyrical rhyme invites readers to engage with God
through empowering and faith-building truth-statements that incite worship and encourage a
lifestyle of loving God and neighbors.

About the Author

Xochitl (So-Cheel) Dixon, contributing writer for Our Daily Bread and God Hears Her, is the author of
Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace. She loves Jesus and people, as she crosses
cultural, generational, and international lines with encouraging and sound biblical teaching. Celebrating
diversity and inclusion, she advocates for disability awareness with her beautifully diverse family and her
service dog, Callie. Her first children’s picture book, Different Like Me, now available in Spanish, is a
2021 ECPA Christian Book Award Children’s Book Finalist. In March 2024, Xochitl’s second picture book, What Color is God’s Love?, is releasing with WaterBrook.

More from Xochitl

The Heart Behind My Story

By Xochitl Dixon

Like most of my writing, What Color is God’s Love? began as an overflow of worship while I prayed and praised God. In 2018, my husband and I had followed God from California to Wisconsin. I’m disabled and can’t drive, so his long hours at work left me feeling isolated while I searched for a new church and new doctors. As the weather became more extreme, I grew more discouraged, frustrated, and resentful. I struggled as I wrote my first 31-day devotional for Our Daily Bread, Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace. I was praying for people, studying and teaching the Bible every day. So, I couldn’t figure out why I felt so out of touch with God.

When my new puppy, Callie, licked my tears away, I looked out the window and noticed the rain had finally stopped. Rays of sunlight pierced through the dark gray clouds, shining on a white heron that had landed in the greed foliage on the creek’s bank next to our front yard. I wept tears of grateful praise. I wrote the first draft of a free verse poem celebrating God’s loving care for the details in Creation and in the lives of His people.

As I prayed, I realized I had been spending time talking to people about God. However, as the physical, emotional, and mental effects of our transition overwhelmed me, I had stopped spending quality time with God. As I watched the white heron take flight, God led me to Psalm 33:6-9, which became the first What Color is God’s Love? Bookend Bible verse.

I released Waiting for God in 2019 and my first picture book, Different Like Me, in 2020. But God had me tuck that free verse poem away as He dramatically transformed me and the original manuscript over the next few years. I wanted to give young image-bearers what I never had growing up: a safe place to process emotions . . . in God’s presence. I also wanted God’s beautifully diverse image-bearers, people with and without disabilities, to see each color as a reminder of His unchanging character, unlimited power, and unwavering grace, as they experienced His unconditional love flowing for them, in them, and through them.

After I signed the contract in November 2021, God began leading me to the right Bible verses to build the messages for each color I shared. Over time, I created the Breath Prayer Cards as a free download on my website, the YouVersion reading plan, and the devotional for the rest of the colors not shared in the reading plan.

I wanted each color to be a reminder of God’s unchanging character, unlimited power, and unwavering grace as we experience His unconditional love flowing for, in, and through us. More importantly, I began praying that everyone who read What Color is God’s Love? would be inspired to open their Bibles and spend more time with God, including me.

Blog Stops

Lots of Helpers, April 24

Texas Book-aholic, April 25

Vicky Sluiter, April 26 (Author Interview)

BookZone Reviews 📚, April 27

By The Book, April 28 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, April 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 29

Splashes of Joy, April 30 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 1

Beauty in the Binding, May 2 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 3

Sylvan Musings, May 4 (Author Interview)

Guild Master, May 4

Artistic Nobody, May 5

Blossoms and Blessings, May 6 (Author Interview)

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 7

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Xochitl is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card, a copy of Different Like Me, and What Color is God’s Love?!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2b144/what-color-is-god-s-love-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tour and Giveaway for Emma’s Hero by Carrie Walker

About the Book

Book: Emma’s Hero

Author: Carrie Walker

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release Date: April 5, 2024

“God won’t give me more than I can handle? I’m pretty sure He just did.”

After a year of loss and bad choices distance Emma Reynolds from her lifelong beliefs, she finds herself pregnant and alone at a twenty-week ultrasound, hearing the words “incompatible with life.” When her son, Theo, survives birth, she fights to give him the best care possible. As each day passes, Emma’s love for Theo grows—along with her fear of losing him. She can’t understand why God allows her son to suffer.

Seventeen-year-old blogger, Mason Hughes, feels lonely and worthless after his father left their family years ago. When he ignores his mother’s push to “contribute to society,” she volunteers him to help Emma each week. Wishing he’d applied for any other job, Mason has no choice but to grocery shop and practice his rusty social skills with a mother and son he doesn’t know.

Paramedic Ben Sullivan has earned himself the title of “most eligible” bachelor among his friends as they continually set him up on blind dates. While he’d love to avoid the uncomfortable events, his heart can’t help but seek the one thing missing in his life—a marriage like his parents have. If only he could find the woman himself.

As Theo’s tiny life connects them to each other, their loneliness breaks under the love of community, and they will never be the same.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Emma’s Hero is a beautifully written book that will grab your heart and won’t let go. Emma is a scared but determined young lady as she faces life with a special needs son. She will do everything she can to make sure he has the best care possible. With the help of Ben, who is a Paramedic and teenager Mason, life was easier for Emma.

What an amazing debut book by Author Carrie Walker! I cried more than usual as I read this wonderful book. I just love Emma, and and the sweet mom she becomes. And Mason. I love how he develops into the sweetest young guy as the story unfolds. I like how Ben prays for Emma long before he meets her. And the three of these characters will stay with me for a long time, along with the beautiful and sweet Theo. This is for sure a book I will keep and read again. I can’t wait for the second book in this Faith Endures Series, and what Carrie Walker has for us next. I’m giving this special book Five Stars. If you enjoy new authors, or contemporary Christian, or just a good clean book to read, you have to try Emma’s Hero. You will not be disappointed!!

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

Carrie Walker lives in Michigan with her husband and seven children. From her ten years serving as a high school youth minister, adventures around the globe, and raising a family, many stories have been knit within her heart.

As an avid reader she pens what she loves to read: contemporary stories that bring hope to a hurting world. Weaving romance among storylines of characters in struggle, she aims to show God working in all situations. When she’s not playing board games with her husband, shuttling kids in the Walker bus, or wishing for snow, Carrie can be found at the keyboard bringing those stories to life.

A member of ACFW, ACFW-GL and FHLCW, Carrie’s writing has been recognized in many contests and her debut novel, Emma’s Hero, won the 2020 ACFW First Impressions Contest for Contemporary.

To learn more about Carrie and her writing or to connect with her, follow her on social media! She’d love to hear from you.

More from Carrie

A number of years ago, I walked into a hospital room to visit a young woman I knew whose daughter with semi-lobar holoproscencephaly had been admitted. When I laid my eyes on the beautiful, tiny baby I knew that sweet girl had touched many lives, probably without her mother even knowing. The seed for a story was planted. I’d never written a book before so I ignored it for a long time, but then I witnessed an isolated teen in the school my children went to and that seed of an idea blossomed. Soon, the idea of a baby changing the life of a troubled teen would not leave me alone. And because I believe every book is better with romance, that baby might just have to touch a few other lives 😉 I took writing classes and penned this story over and over until it was right. And now I hand baby Theo to you, and pray he touches your life as well.

Blog Stops

Life on Chickadee Lane, April 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 20

Inspired by fiction, April 21

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 22 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, April 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 24

For the Love of Literature, April 25 (Author Interview)

The Lofty Pages, April 25

Batya’s Bits, April 26

Splashes of Joy, April 27

Artistic Nobody, April 28 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 29

Back Porch Reads, April 30 (Author Interview)

Simply Sarah, April 30

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, May 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carrie is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book (Winner’s choice of eBook or paperback)!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2afa8/emma-s-hero-celebration-tour-giveaway

Review and Tour for Blizzard at Blue Ridge Inn by Pat Nichols

About the Book

Book: Blizzard at Blue Ridge Inn

Author: Pat Nichols

Genre: Women’s Fiction

Release Date: January 21, 2024

Three strangers stranded in a North Georgia inn confront lies from their pasts and experience the healing power of friendship.

Amanda Sullivan is desperately trying to save her crumbling second marriage. Will celebrating her ninth anniversary with her husband in Blue Ridge breathe new life into their troubled relationship?

Erica Parker suspects her husband is unfaithful. She vows to learn if her distrust is real or imagined.

Wendy Peterson can hardly wait for the birth of her baby with her wealthy husband, until a shopping spree in the quaint tourist town shatters everything.

When a once-in-a-century snowstorm blankets the country and delays their husbands’ arrivals, the perfectionist, the peacemaker, and the socializer find themselves alone at the historic Blue Ridge Inn. During two days of isolation, they overcome the differences in their ages and lifestyles to discover they have a lot in common. As the temperature rises and the snow begins to melt, a stranger delivers shocking news. Their stay at the inn is no accident.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

This women’s fiction starts off with three couples going to the Blue Ridge Inn. All are strangers and at the Inn for different reasons, but they all are stranded buy their husband’s. When a snow storm hits the area, the three women are stranded alone at the Inn.

I have read several books by Pat Nichols and was excited to read this one. I’m glad it is a first in the Blue Ridge series. It will be fun to read the next three books in the series. Blizzard at Blue Ridge Inn is a fabulous setting for this book. I love the blankets of snow over this town and the way the three women form a friendship that stick together. There were several twists and turns, but the one that destroys the three ladies and their marriage has to be the worst. I like how these three pull together, helping each other out as they try to navigate their life after their devastating news that ripped their marriages apart and tried to destroy their lives. The gall of that horrible man. I was happy for Amanda, Erica, and Wendy as they helped one another get over the deceit and get on with their lives. The support from each other was heartwarming.

This is a sweet story that anyone who loves Women’s Fiction will enjoy. You will also enjoy if you love good clean inspirational reads. Being the first in a series gives you the opportunity to stay up to date on the entire series. I’m giving this book Five Stars!

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

Award-winning author, Pat Nichols is proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Nine years after retiring from a twenty-seven-year corporate career with an international beauty company, her love for writing resurfaced and prompted her to launch career number two as a novelist. Now she draws on her experience to write stories with tension-laced challenges and heart-warming triumphs. The Secret of Willow Inn is a 2020 Selah Award winner. Starstruck in Willow Falls is a NGCWC Georgia Peach Award winner. Her short story The Vet and Valentine Day also won a NGCWC Georgia Peach Award.

Pat is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Word Weavers International. She has been featured on WATC Television Atlanta Alive, in Southern Writer’s Magazine, and in Voyager Magazine.

More from Pat

Nestled in Chattahoochee National Forest, Southern Living Magazine named Blue Ridge, Georgia as one of 2022 South’s Best Mountain Towns. The first time my husband and I visited the town, we were impressed with the galleries, shops, Scenic Railway, and the friendly vibe. Although I was writing a series set near Savannah, the idea of Blue Ridge staring in a new series took root. When I finished writing the last book in the Butler Family series the idea had blossomed.

Another trip to the iconic town. This time to identify a setting for book one about Amanda, Erica, and Wendy, strangers who find themselves stranded in a cozy inn during a blizzard. We found the Blue Ridge Inn Bed and Breakfast. Perfect! I pressed the front-door buzzer. When I explained my mission to the woman who responded, she took my number and promised the owner would contact us. An hour later John Lavin met us on the front porch. He graciously gave us a tour and shared the 1890 Victorian home’s history.

Writing a fictional story set in a historic inn steps from the train depot and downtown Blue Ridge was inspiring. In fact, I’ve dedicated Blizzard at Blue Ridge Inn to John and guests who stay at the inn. In June, my husband and I plan to spend our anniversary in the suite reserved for Erica. We’ll ride the train and enjoy dinner at the Black Sheep restaurant, a scene in Blue Ridge series book two. By that time, book three will be finished. Then on to book four.

Blog Stops

The Avid Reader, April 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 12

Stories By Gina, April 13 (Author Interview)

Devoted To Hope, April 13 (Spotlight)

Texas Book-aholic, April 14

Artistic Nobody, April 15 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 16

Girls in White Dresses, April 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 18

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, April 19 (Author Interview)

Splashes of Joy, April 19

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 20

For Him and My Family, April 21

An Author’s Take, April 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 23

She Lives To Read, April 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Pat is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2afa1/blizzard-at-blue-ridge-inn-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tour and Review for Love’s Promise by Penny Zeller

About the Book

Book: Love’s Promise

Author: Penny Zeller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: March 19, 2024

Can one man’s love win a fragile woman’s heart?
After Amaya Alvarado lost her fiancé to a senseless tragedy, she vows never to love again. Two years later, at her grandmother’s request, she travels to Poplar Springs to assist with the mercantile and help care for her ailing grandfather. During a stagecoach accident and a confrontation with nefarious outlaws, she crosses paths with a man named Silas McFadden who rescues her and the other passengers. A bond between them soon forms.
Silas is not the man he once was. After a stint on the wrong side of the law, he’s now a respectable rancher in Poplar Springs, Wyoming. After becoming a man of faith, he determines to live his life for the One who gave him a second chance. He just never imagined that second chance might include Amaya. Now all he has to do is ensure his past doesn’t return and destroy his and Amaya’s fragile relationship.
Amaya’s and Silas’s friendship soon grows, and she begins to trust him with everything but her heart. Can she push her growing feelings for him aside? After all, isn’t it betraying her fiancé to care for another man the way she has grown to care for Silas?
When the past comes back to haunt him and revenge is sought, can Silas protect the woman he has come to love?

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I was anxious to read Penny Zeller’s new book, Love’s Promise. After reading the others in the series, I had to find out more that was happening in Poplar Springs. It was nice re-connecting with the characters in the other series books as well.

I love historical fiction and this one was fabulous. I love the characters and their development throughout the story. I like how it feels as though I know them personally, which sounds, that’s the way it is sometimes. I found it interesing and sweet that Amaya Alvarado was willing to help with her grandparents and help them with the mercantile. I enjoyed her stay, and especially after she meets Silas. Their relationship was sweet and I loved the was they continued to grow closer together. Penny Zeller does an awesome job writing this historical fiction. She adds just the right amount of twists and turns to keep you reading until the last page. And as always, I really like the way Penny shares her faith through her characters, in a subtle way. I think I’ll stop here in describing the book, you need to read it for yourself.

I’m giving Love’s Promise by Penny Zeller Five Stars! If you enjoy a good clean Christian historical romance, you will love this book, as well as this entire series. Check it out for yourself.

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

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics.

Today Penny is the author of nearly two dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a group fitness instructor. Her desire is to assist and nurture women into a closer relationship with Christ.

When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters and camping, hiking, canoeing, bicycling/cycling, reading, running, gardening, and playing volleyball.

She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers.

More from Penny

In Love’s Promise, one of the tender memories main male character, Silas McFadden, recalls is, as a young’un, making his Oma carrot cake for her birthday from her favorite recipe.

Big clumsy hands weren’t helpful when it came to cracking the eggs and scooping the batter into the pan. He’d opened the oven door at least twenty times in the course of the cake baking just to be sure he didn’t burn it. For if he did, there were no more ingredients.

The icing was runny, but Oma hadn’t minded. When she finally returned home, Silas had the cake waiting for her. She had cried, told him how much she loved him, and then together, they’d eaten the entire cake that evening.

I’d love to share with you Oma’s recipe, which in actuality, is a family recipe. 😊

Oma’s Carrot Cake

2 c. flour, sifted

2 c. sugar

2 tsp. soda

2 tsp. salt

1 Tbsp. cinnamon

Sift together the above ingredients and set aside.

3 c. grated carrots

4 eggs

1 ½ c. oil

Mix well 1 c. carrots with 1 egg and ½ c. of oil. Repeat twice and add extra egg with last mixing. Combine with dry ingredients. Mix well.

Pour into greased pan and bake at 350º for one hour. Cool. Frost if desired.

Blog Stops

Madi’s Musings, April 2

The Lofty Pages , April 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 3

lakesidelivingsite, April 4

She Lives To Read, April 5

Connie’s History Classroom, April 5

Alena Mentink, April 6

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 7

Holly’s Book Corner, April 7

Texas Book-aholic, April 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 10

Pause for Tales, April 10

Books You Can Feel Good About, April 11

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 12

Cover Lover Book Review, April 12

For Him and My Family, April 13

Devoted To Hope, April 13

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 14 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, April 14

Life on Chickadee Lane, April 15

Splashes of Joy, April 15

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Penny is giving away the grand prize of 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.

https://promosimple.com/ps/02ac73/love-s-promise-celebration-tour-giveaway

Review and Tous for Cracklin’ Rosie by Jennifer Lynn Cary

About the Book

Book: Cracklin’ Rosie

Author: Jennifer Lynn Cary

Genre: Historical Christian Romance

Release Date: November 20, 2023

She’s a strong-willed chiropractor…

…He’s an old-fashioned MD.

Sparks fly—but will they burn them or make them sizzle?

When Rose Crackinbush D.C. sets up her modern (for the 1970s) practice in a new town, heaven help anyone who thinks chiropractors aren’t legitimate doctors.  Those naysayers will eat their words. Or she might make them cookies—she can be nice.

And if she can keep her temper about the town’s Jokester MD, she might win some new patients.

But this MD isn’t just a jokester. A dedicated family doctor, Brett Shoffner uses humor to help heal his patients. Only it seems newly-arrived lady chiropractors aren’t ready for his quips — no matter how pretty and smart they are. This specific lady chiropractor, not the quips.

Life would be so much easier for these two if they could avoid each other. But fate keeps throwing them together. Can they see beyond the symptoms and diagnose the real reasons behind their push-pull attraction?

And if so, will they choose the best cure?

Welcome back to 1972 Kokomo, Indiana in Cracklin’ Rosie, the fourth installment of the Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue series, where the Great Physician can adjust callings and purposes in ways never imagined.

You will enjoy Cracklin’ Rosie, a sweet, clean romcom inspired by Neil Diamond’s 1960’s song of the same title, because everyone knows that the plans we make don’t always end up as we thought they would.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Being new to the area, Rose Crackinbush, D. C. wasn’t sure how the community would react to a Chiropractors office in town. But she was soon to find out how the town Dr feels. She just doesn’t know how to take his forever joking. But she is soon to find out when she spends time with her friend, who is married to the Dr’s brother, that the Dr. isn’t so bad after all.

I love this book and the fact that it had me laughing much of the time. This is the fourth book in the Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue Series. I didn’t read the first three books and I had no problem understand what was going on, though I feel if you read the first three, you will better understand this book. Either way, it’s a fabulous read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters were carefully etched out by the author and very creative as the story unfolds. If you enjoy a good clean fiction to read, I highly recommend Cracklin’ Rosie by Jennifer Lynn Cary. I am going to check out the first three books in the series to read, and I encourage you to do the same. Jennifer Lynn Cary is a fabulous author, and I will be looking forward to her next series.

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

Historical Christian Romance author, Jennifer Lynn Cary, likes to say you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can’t take the Hoosier out of the girl. Now transplanted to the Arizona desert, this direct descendant of Davy Crockett and her husband of forty years enjoy time with family where she shares tales of her small-town heritage and family legacies with their grandchildren. She is the author of The Crockett Chronicles series, The Relentless series, and The Weather Girls trilogy as well as the stand-alone novel, Cheryl’s Going Home, her novella Tales of the Hob Nob Annex Café, and her split-time novels The Traveling Prayer Shawl and The Forgotten Gratitude Journal. Cracklin’ Rosie is the fourth book of her spin-off series The Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue.

More from Jennifer

I’ve long been a fan of 60s music—since the 1960s! Neil Diamond has been a favorite performer since that time. I must have been in fourth grade with “Thank the Lord for the Nighttime” was released. I had no idea of any deeper meaning, just loved the song—it would’ve gotten full 98 score from me for having “a great beat and fun to dance to” if I’d been a judge on American Bandstand with Dick Clark.

Fast-forward a good fifty plus years, and I’m researching 60s music where the song title has a girl’s name in it for my Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue series and I run across “Cracklin’ Rosie.” That was one song I sang with gusto. So fun. But I never was sure of the meaning. What or who was Cracklin’ Rosie? Then I got an inspiration that made me laugh out loud. I even contacted friends to share—tickled me to no end. What if Rosie was a chiropractor? That was the genesis for this story.

Of course, it needed to be funny. And who better to add humor and conflict than a medical doctor who fancied himself as an amateur comedian? The idea stuck and the brainstorming began. I have to tell you my critique partner, Diana Brandmeyer, understands humor. It was a blast coming up with ways to make it funny.

I hope you will agree, and that there will be moments when you snort or chuckle. Or even laugh out loud and have someone look over at you, so you tell them, “You gotta read this book.” Anyway, whether anyone watches you read, I hope you’ll enjoy this latest addition to the Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue series, Cracklin’ Rosie.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 30

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 31

Texas Book-aholic, April 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 2

JESUS in the EVERYDAY, April 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 4

Blogging With Carol, April 5

For Him and My Family, April 6

Cover Lover Book Review, April 7

Splashes of Joy, April 8

Exploring the Written Word, April 9

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 10 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, April 10

Pause for Tales, April 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon card and an eBook copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2ac72/cracklin-rosie-celebration-tour-giveaway

Review and Tour for Falling for a Shy Cowboy by Karen Baney

Join us for This Tour from Mar 26 to Apr 22, 2024

Book Details:

Book Title: Falling for a Shy Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 2) by Karen Baney

Category:  Adult Fiction 18+, 192 pages Genre: Contemporary Christian Western Romance
Publisher:  Desert Life Media
Release date:  Dec 19, 2023

Format available for review:  e-book (BookFunnel download), audiobook (BookFunnel downoad)

Tour dates: Mar 26 to Apr 22

Content Rating: PG + M. The main character broke free from an abusive past relationship with her son’s father. Some flashbacks to the abuse. Only one scene described in detail (2 paragraphs). No cursing or graphic descriptions.

Book Description

She’s a single mom with a disabled son. He’s been in love with her since high school. Will this shy cowboy finally win her heart?

Dylan Vargas is too shy for his own good. While he and his best friend Adan work with the horses on his family’s ranch near Wickenburg, Arizona, Adan signs him up for an online dating service. Dylan begrudgingly looks through the profiles. One face stands out above the others—that of his childhood crush. There’s only one impossible problem—she is Adan’s little sister.

Brisa Franco moves home to Wickenburg after a tragic car accident left her four-year-old son disabled. As she starts a new job in her hometown, she never expects to help her brother’s best friend in his quest to overcome a speech impediment.

Will Dylan steal her heart as she helps him learn how to release his anxiety? Will Brisa learn to trust him and let go of her deeply engrained fears from her past relationship?

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N 
​Apple ~ Google ~ Kobo
Book2Read ~ BookBub
​add to goodreads

MY THOUGHTS ON FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY BY KAREN BANEY

I have thoroughly enjoyed this series of Cowboy Romances. Today’s story is Falling For A Shy Cowboy. This was interesting because I wanted to see what this Shy cowboy was all about. This book is Dylan and Brisa story. I enjoyed so much re-visiting the Vargas Ranch and connecting with all of the characters from the other books. Though they seem more like friends that characters. When Dylan’s friend Aden signs him up with an online dating service, no one would know that he took a look at the profiles there, would they? Dylan had a big surprised in finding his long time childhood crush, Brisa listed there. Would she see him listed there as well?

This is an interesting twist to the story. Could the two of them get together after all these years? Dylan was still as shy as ever, and Brisa not only brings her son, but also her share of problems back to her hometown. I love these characters, as well as the other characters that shows up in this book from the other books in the series. I think Karen Baney does an amazing job of once again bringing the Vargas Ranch back to life. I’m not sure if this series is complete, but I would love reading more about the Vargus Ranch and everyone it takes to make the ranch a success. I’m giving Falling For A Shy Cowboy Five Stars! Anyone loving a clean read, Cowboy’s and Ranch stories, and sweet romance stories will love this book as much 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.

FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY By Karen Baney

​Book Details:

Book Title: Falling for a Bossy Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 3) by Karen Baney
Category:  Adult Fiction 18+, 204 pages

Genre: Contemporary Christian Western Romance
Publisher: Desert Life Media
Release date:  Mar 26, 2024

Format available for review:  e-book (BookFunnel download), audiobook (BookFunnel downoad)

Tour dates: Mar 26 to Apr 22

Content Rating:  PG + M. My book deals with a main character overcoming his sexually immoral past. He is in active recovery and God’s grace and strenghth shine through his story line. Written tastefully with character showing true remorse for his past actions. There are NO cursing or graphic descriptions of any kind.

Book Description:

​She’s famous and nearing the end of her career. He’s blunt, bossy, and downright annoying. Will these two find the perfect balance between truth and love?

Sports fanatic Derin Vargas steps down from his position as foreman of Vargas Ranch to run the family’s new sports complex. Uncomfortable in his new role, he compensates by being bossy. When a famous pro-tennis player stays at the resort to rehab after surgery, Derin points out her shortcomings no one else will.

Pro-tennis player Madison Moore heads to a remote sports complex on Vargas Guest Ranch & Resort to finish rehabbing after shoulder surgery. As she fears the death of her pro career, the bossy cowboy manager gets under her skin.

​Will Derin soften his rough edges to win over the beautiful tennis player? Will Madison listen to the hard truth about her future while opening her heart to love?

Buy the Book:
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Book2Read ~ BookBub
​add to goodreads

Book Details:

Book Title: Falling for a Real Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 1) by Karen Baney
Category:  Adult Fiction 18+, 208 pages

Genre: Contemporary Christian Western Romance
Publisher:  Desert Life Media
Release date:  Nov 21, 2023

Format available for review:  e-book (BookFunnel download), audiobook (BookFunnel downoad)

Tour dates: Mar 26 to Apr 22

Content Rating: PG – Some situations might not be suitable for under 16 yrs old. A character accuses another of hiring his “lover” to design a hotel reservation website (even though it wasn’t true). No cursing or graphic descriptions.

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Book Description:

​She’s trying to resurrect her career. He’s sworn off women. Will this city-meets-country duo find love where they least expect it?

Dalton J. Vargas the fourth has sworn off love. Women are just a distraction that keep him from running his family’s multi-million-dollar guest ranch near Wickenburg, Arizona. After his father announces an early retirement, the full burden of the ranch rests on his shoulders. When a city-slicker romance author stays at the ranch, Dalton’s perfect world turns to chaos.

River Sloane’s last workplace romance novel flopped—big time. Now her publisher wants her to write a modern-day cowboy romance, which she has resisted for years. When her publisher sends her to a dude ranch in the middle of nowhere Arizona, she must learn about cowboys and ranching to get her career back on track. One hunky cowboy stirs her heart and unexpectedly becomes her muse.

Will she let herself fall in love with the real cowboy or will she return to the life she left behind? Will Dalton open his heart to a new, lasting love?

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N 
​Apple ~ Google ~ Kobo
Book2Read ~ Bookbub
​add to goodreads

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Book Details:

Book Title: Falling for a Shy Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 2) by Karen Baney
Category:  Adult Fiction 18+, 192 pages Genre: Contemporary Christian Western Romance
Publisher:  Desert Life Media
Release date:  Dec 19, 2023

Format available for review:  e-book (BookFunnel download), audiobook (BookFunnel downoad)

Tour dates: Mar 26 to Apr 22

Content Rating: PG + M. The main character broke free from an abusive past relationship with her son’s father. Some flashbacks to the abuse. Only one scene described in detail (2 paragraphs). No cursing or graphic descriptions.

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Book Description:

She’s a single mom with a disabled son. He’s been in love with her since high school. Will this shy cowboy finally win her heart?

Dylan Vargas is too shy for his own good. While he and his best friend Adan work with the horses on his family’s ranch near Wickenburg, Arizona, Adan signs him up for an online dating service.

Dylan begrudgingly looks through the profiles. One face stands out above the others—that of his childhood crush. There’s only one impossible problem—she is Adan’s little sister.

Brisa Franco moves home to Wickenburg after a tragic car accident left her four-year-old son disabled. As she starts a new job in her hometown, she never expects to help her brother’s best friend in his quest to overcome a speech impediment.

Will Dylan steal her heart as she helps him learn how to release his anxiety? Will Brisa learn to trust him and let go of her deeply engrained fears from her past relationship?

Buy the Book:
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​Apple ~ Google ~ Kobo
Book2Read ~ BookBub
​add to goodreads

Tour Schedule:

Mar 26 – Cover Lover Book Review – book series spotlight / giveaway
Mar 26 – Ilovebooksandstuffblog –book series spotlight / giveaway
Mar 26 — Faith and Books – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY / giveaway
Mar 27 – Novels Alive – book review of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY / giveaway
Mar 27 — Faith and Books – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY / giveaway
Mar 28 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY / guest post / giveaway
Mar 28 – Splashes of Joy – book review of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY / giveaway
Mar 28 – FUONLYKNEW – book series spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Mar 28 — Faith and Books – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 2 –The Sexy Nerd Revue – book series spotlight / giveaway
Apr 3 – Gina Rae Mitchell – book review of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 4 – Liese’s Blog – book spotlight of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY
Apr 4 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 5 – Novels Alive – book review of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 8 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 9 – Liese’s Blog – book spotlight of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY
Apr 9 – Locks, Hooks and Books – audiobook review for FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 10 – Gina Rae Mitchell – book review of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 10 – Splashes of Joy – book review of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 10 – Locks, Hooks and Books – audiobook review for FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 11 – Liese’s Blog – book spotlight of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY
Apr 11 – Locks, Hooks and Books – audiobook review for FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 12 – Splashes of Joy – book review of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 12 – mamof9 – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 15 – Books Lattes & Tiaras – book review of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 15 – mamof9 – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 16 – mamof9 – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 16 – Leanne Bookstagram – book review of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY
Apr 17 – Gina Rae Mitchell – book review of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY / guest post / giveaway
Apr 17 – Leanne Bookstagram – book review of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY
Apr 18 – Books Lattes & Tiaras – book review of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 18 – Leanne Bookstagram – book review of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY
Apr 19 – Novels Alive – book review of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY / giveaway
Apr 22 –– Books Lattes & Tiaras – book review of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY / giveaway
​TBD – Confessions of the Perfect Mom – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A REAL COWBOY
TBD – Confessions of the Perfect Mom – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A SHY COWBOY
TBD – Confessions of the Perfect Mom – audiobook review of FALLING FOR A BOSSY COWBOY

Falling for a Real Cowboy by Karen Baney

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Book Details:

Book Title: 

Falling for a Real Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 1) by Karen Baney
Category:  Adult Fiction 18+, 208 pag3

Genre: 

Contemporary Christian Western

Romance
Publisher:  

Desert Life Media
Release date:  Nov 21, 2023

Format available for review:  e-book (BookFunnel download), audiobook (BookFunnel downoad)

Tour dates: Mar 26 to Apr 22

Content Rating: 

PG – Some situations might not be suitable for under 16 yrs old. A character accuses another of hiring his “lover” to design a hotel reservation website (even though it wasn’t true). No cursing or graphic descriptions

A city-slicker romance author stays at the ranch, Dalton’s perfect world turns to chaos.

River Sloane’s last workplace romance novel flopped—big time. Now her publisher wants her to write a modern-day cowboy romance, which she has resisted for years. When her publisher sends her to a dude ranch in the middle of nowhere Arizona, she must learn about cowboys and ranching to get her career back on track. One hunky cowboy stirs her heart and unexpectedly becomes her muse.

Will she let herself fall in love with the real cowboy or will she return to the life she left behind? Will Dalton open his heart to a new, lasting love?

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Falling for a Real Cowboy (Vargas Ranch pBook 1) by Karen Baney is another fabulous book that I really enjoyed. With both River and Dalton having their own opinions of romance, neither was interested in finding love. River is only at the ranch because her publisher wants a modern day cowboy romance novel, therefore she needs to stay at the ranch and learn all about it.

I enjoyed the romance taking place in this book between the two major characters. It was sweet watching the two interact with each other. It was also interesting to follow River as she is trying to write her book. Karen Baney has once again created a cast of characters that readers will fall in love with. I love each detailed scene, and it was especially fabulous to spend time on the Arizona ranch. I love stories that speak of ranches, and this one was top notch. If you enjoy sweet cowboy romance stories, you will love Falling for a Real Cowboy. I’m giving this one FIVE STARS!!

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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Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N 
​Apple ~ Google ~ Kobo
Book2Read ~ Bookbub
​add to goodreads

Mei’s Mermaid Mission by Crystal Z. Lee Spotlight Tour

Book Details:Book Title:  Mei’s Mermaid Mission by Crystal Z. Lee
Category: Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7), 42 pages
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Publisher: Balestier Press
​Publication Date: Mar 1, 2024.
Content Rating: G

Book Description:The mission of the Mermaids International Rescue Alliance (MIRA) is to guard the ocean and protect the sea creatures. There are many mermaid members in MIRA from all over Asia, such as Princess Hwangok (Korea), Roro (Indonesia), Jiao (China), Ningyo (Japan), Songkhla (Thailand), Duyung (Malaysia), Sovann Macha (Cambodia), Sirena (the Philippines), and Mei (Taiwan). Mei’s Mermaid Mission is an exquisitely illustrated picture book that follows Mei as she travels all over the Asia Pacific region to gather the team of heroic mermaids in order to stop the pirate from polluting. Can Mei and the MIRA mermaids stop the pirate in time? Over twenty sea animals and over twenty locations in Asia are introduced in this story, as well as Asian mermaid mythologies in the book’s backmatter. Children and adults will delight in this cultural story emphasizing empathy, friendship, collaboration, and environmental protection.

Mei’s Mermaid Mission by Crystal Z. Lee

Author Interview

1. There are some specialty ships mentioned in Mei’s Mermaid Mission. Can you share them with our readers?

• Turtle ships were armored battleships used from the 15th-19th centuries in Korea. The ships resembled turtles with their fully covered plates. 
• Dragon boats have been around for more than two thousand years! They are traditional paddled long boats with decorative dragon heads and tails. Today they can be found all over Asia, such as in Taiwan, Cambodia, Japan, Malaysia, China, Laos, the Philippines, etc.
• Moon boats are traditional Bangladeshi fishing boats with a distinctive crescent moon shape.

2. We love the vibrant outfits on each mermaid in your book. What was the inspiration behind that?

Each mermaid’s outfit is inspired by either the mermaid mythology from their home country, or from the traditional wear originating from their native culture. For example, Mei the Taiwanese mermaid is wearing Indigenous Tao clothing, Ningyo the Japanese mermaid is illustrated to have a ninja vibe, and Sirena the Filipina mermaid is wearing an interpretation of the baro’t saya (the traditional dress of the Philippines).

3. You seem to have penchant for animals in your picture books. Is there a reason for that?

You’re right! My other picture books, Kai the Dancing Butterfly and A Unicorn Named Rin also include many animals. I believe that as stewards of the earth, humans have a responsibility towards other animals and creatures we share this planet with. I think children should be taught this great purpose from a young age. 

4. There are many endangered animals mentioned in Mei’s Mermaid Mission. Which ones made an impression on you?

• Blue whale: The heart of a blue whale is the largest of any animal in the world! 
• Hainan gibbon: Found only in China, Hainan Gibbons are known for their singing, and they sometimes even sing in duets!
• Whale sharks: As the world’s largest fish, a whale shark is about the size of a bus. The Philippines boasts the third largest known aggregation of whale sharks in the world.
• Taiwanese humpback dolphin: Found only off the coast of Taiwan, these humpback dolphins may sometimes appear pink!

5. Tell us about your writing and publishing journey.

I started writing my first novel, Love and Other Moods, when I was still living in Taipei and Shanghai. Later when we moved back to California, I started taking publishing and writing courses at Stanford University. The pitching journey was challenging. I was first working with a US indie press and had landed a literary agent, but later I parted ways with both amicably. Then a British press accepted my manuscript and I’ve stayed with them since! My next three books were children’s picture books: A Unicorn Named Rin, Kai the Dancing Butterfly, and Mei’s Mermaid Mission. I also dabbled in other forms of literature such as poetry. Last year my poetry was accepted into a UK anthology, Tabula Rasa.

6. Mei’s Mermaid Mission references names from mermaid mythologies in Asia. Tell our readers about some of them.

In Cambodian and Thai mythology, Sovann Macha was a golden mermaid who led a pack of mer-warriors. 

In Korean lore, there is a love story between King Eunhye and a mermaid princess, Hwangok. Princess Hwangok lived at Busan and patiently kept vigil for Eunhye by the shore.

My book references names from mermaid mythologies that have permeated the Asia Pacific region, some of them for centuries. I’ve always been fascinated with the underwater world so writing this book was a wonderful journey. 

BUY THE BOOK:
AMAZON ~ B&N ~ BAM
add the goodreads

Meet the Author:

Crystal Z. Lee grew up in a bilingual household in Taiwan and in California. She is an avid traveler and has visited over thirteen countries in Asia. Her favorite travel memories include hiking the forests of Borneo, boating in Phuket, cruising down the Yangtze River, chasing butterflies in Taiwan, attending literary festivals in Hong Kong, and visiting family in Singapore. Crystal is the author of children’s books A Unicorn Named Rin and Kai the Dancing Butterfly. Her poetry was recently included in the UK anthology, Tabula Rasa. She is also the author of a novel, Love and Other Moods.

​connect with the author: website ~  instagram ~ goodreads
​
Meet the Illustrator:

Allie Su was born and raised in a village in Yunlin county, Taiwan. She attended Nanhua University in Chiayi city, majoring in Visual Arts. Allie once lived in Korea for some time, volunteering in the area of animal protection. She loves kimchi, Korean saunas, Incheon’s snowy winters, and taking boat rides to Yeouido. She believes in bringing joy to people through art. Allie has worked as a children’s art teacher and a professional illustrator. She also illustrated a picture book about Taiwan, Kai the Dancing Butterfly.

 

Enter the Giveaway:

MEI’S MERMAID MISSION by Crystal Z Lee Book Tour Giveaway
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Sandcastle Inn by Irene Hannon

About the Book

Book: Sandcastle Inn

Author: Irene Hannon

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: April 2, 2024

Vienna Price never intended to return for more than a passing visit to Oregon and all the bad memories she’d left behind. But when your career tanks, home is where you go to nurse your wounds and chart a new course. Only temporarily, of course—because as much as she loves her quirky mom, anything more than a short stay would drive them both crazy.

A trip to Oregon isn’t in Matt Quinn’s plans, either, until a perfectly timed appeal for help arrives from his sister. What better place to decompress after a shattering loss than a quiet, seaside town named Hope Harbor? But R&R isn’t on the agenda when he arrives to find his sister’s new enterprise on life support.

Vienna, however, may have just the skills needed to resuscitate the foundering B&B—if Matt can convince her to hang around long enough to mend an inn . . . and his heart.

About the Author

Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than 60 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA’s elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work.

More from Irene

In my world, the approach of April signals not only tulips, dogwoods, and daffodils, but a return to my little seaside town of Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast. And this year marks a milestone. Sandcastle Inn is the tenth book set in this charming locale.

When I conceived of this series back in 2013, neither I nor my editor had any idea how long it would run—or that Publishers Weekly would deem my small fictional town “a place of emotional restoration that readers will yearn to visit.”

But visit they have. Hundreds of thousands of copies of the books have been sold worldwide, the novels have been translated into multiple languages, and taco-making artist/town sage Charley Lopez has become an iconic figure.

It’s been an amazing journey—with more books to come.

If you’ve never visited Hope Harbor and are reluctant to dive in at this stage, no worries. Each book stands alone, with a whole new cast of main characters. Each story also begins and ends in each book, with no hanging plot threads from book to book. The town is the unifying element in the series—along with a few secondary characters like Charley, the bantering town clerics from neighboring churches, and the seagull couple Floyd and Gladys, who always seem to be around when romance is in the air.

If you’re new to the series, Sandcastle Inn is a fine jumping-off point. This story features a hero struggling to recoup from a tragic loss and a heroine still reeling from an unplanned career detour. When they join forces to save a floundering inn, challenges ensue…and sparks fly. Because if it’s Hope Harbor, there has to be romance!

The book resonates with multiple other themes too—dealing with grief, moving on, changing direction, mending past relationships, taking a leap of faith. And of course there’s a happy ending.

It’s the kind of book that will put a smile on your lips and hope in your heart.

So I invite you to find a comfy spot, pour a mug or cup of your favorite beverage, and travel with me to Hope Harbor, where hearts heal…and love blooms.

Insider’s Tip: If you ever decide to book a stay at Sandcastle Inn, ask for the seaside room upstairs at the end of the hall that leads to the right. The view is stunning!

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 4

Texas Book-aholic, April 5

Blogging With Carol, April 5

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 6

For Him and My Family, April 6

Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 7

Splashes of Joy, April 7

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 8

She Lives To Read, April 8

lakesidelivingsite, April 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 10

Southern Gal Loves to Read, April 10

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, April 11 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, April 11

Cover Lover Book Review, April 12

The Lofty Pages, April 13

Melissa’s Bookshelf, April 13

Blossoms and Blessings, April 14

Labor Not in Vain, April 14

Wishful Endings, April 15

By The Book, April 15

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 16

Pause for Tales, April 16

Batya’s Bits, April 17

JESUS in the EVERYDAY, April 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Irene is giving away the grand prize package of a full set of the Hope Harbor series (10 books) and a $50 Bookshop.org gift card!!

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

Click the link below to enter

https://promosimple.com/ps/2ac75/sandcastle-inn-celebration-tour-giveaway

Tracking the Truth by Dana Mentink

About the Book

Book: Tracking the Truth

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release Date: March 26, 2023

To expose a suspect, he needs evidence…

and a K-9’s instincts.

After Emery Duncan is abducted and dumped in a lake, private investigator Roman Wolfe and his bloodhound partner rescue her from an icy death. Someone doesn’t want Emery to find out what really happened the night her father confessed to attempted murder. To keep Emery and her baby nephew safe, they must uncover the connection between her father’s confession and the attack…or they’ll be silenced for good.

About the Author

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 and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of over forty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Poisoned Pen Press.

More from Dana

Bloodhounds everywhere! I was thrilled to be offered a contract to write a WHOLE SIX BOOK SERIES with these amazing creatures and their private eye humans! Bloodhounds have been described as “noses with dog’s attached.” Isn’t that quaint? I hope you will enjoy reading about Wally. He’s a young dog who did not receive the proper training and he’s a tad…well…naughty. Good thing he’s got a handler who’s equally as stubborn. It’s a battle of wills between Wally and Roman and there’s plenty of room for fun along with the suspense. Bloodhounds, take it away!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 28

Madi’s Musings, March 28

Bigreadersite, March 29

Texas Book-aholic, March 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 30

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 31

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 31

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 1

EmpowerMoms, April 1

She Lives to Read, April 2

Blogging With Carol, April 2

Simple Harvest Reads, April 3 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, April 4

Splashes of Joy, April 4

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 5

Devote To Hope, April 5

Blossoms and Blessing, April 6

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 6

Labor Not in Vain, April 7

Betti Mace, April 8

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, April 8

Wishful Endings, April 9

Holly’s Book Corner, April 9

Pause for Tales, April 10

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, April 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize package of a signed copy of the book and a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2aa74/tracking-the-truth-celebration-tour-giveaway

Up from Dust: Martha’s Story by Heather Kaufman

About the Book

Book: Up from Dust: Martha’s Story

Author: Heather Kaufman

Genre: Biblical fiction)l)p)pl))9

Release Date: January 23, 2024

Martha of Bethany is no stranger to adversity. After her mother’s untimely death, Martha shoulders the responsibility of raising her siblings–quiet and studious Lazarus, and wild and rambunctious Mary. She finds solace in friendship and the beginnings of first love, but just as Martha begins to imagine a new future, hardship strikes again and her dreams crumble into dust.

Ten years later, Martha’s friend pleads for the new teacher, Jesus of Nazareth, to come and heal her husband. When Martha discovers that the carpenter-rabbi is connected to her past, she’s not sure she can trust him with her future. But as he continues future.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I am pretty limited about reading Biblical fiction. There is only a handful of authors of this genre that I read their books, but since this is a new to me to author, I wanted to read this one and see what this author is like. This book one in the series is about Martha of Bethany, who is the sister of Lazarus and Mary. There is very little that I know of written about Mary in the Bible, and the authur does a phenomenal job writing this story about Martha as she thought about what life w]ould have been like for Martha back in that era.

For me it was fun reading the way the authors took us all on a journey, creating fun twists and turns in the story along the way. Things were not always easy for Martha, but I like the way the author flawlessly writes her life and it’s twists and turns as a part of her family as it was. The remaining characters were amazing and very well written. The plot was intriguing and the details in each scene was so very thought provoking. Joanna Davidson Politano is giving readers a very well written story that will stay with me for a long while.

I love this beautiful and wonderful story so much. I’m giving it Five Stars and wish I could give it more.

About the Author

Heather Kaufman is the author of multiple books and devotions, praised by Kirkus Review for writing “a charming and well-crafted tale.” She delights in highlighting the goodness of God through storytelling. When not reading, writing, or accumulating mounds of books, Heather can be found exploring new parks with her husband and three children near their home in St. Louis, Missouri.

More from Heather

Up from Dust: Martha’s Story is the first of three books in my new series, “Women of the Way.” Each book focuses on a female follower of Christ, diving deep into her history before touching upon the events we know from Scripture. Book one is on Martha of Bethany, the sister of Lazarus and Mary.

Let me ask you a question: What comes to your mind when you think of Martha]

Busy? Angry? Worried?

How about: Teachable? Trusting? Strong?

I’m afraid we’ve distilled poor Martha down into a personality type, turning her into a cautionary tale for Christian women. When Scripture as a whole presents a much different picture.

The seed of this story was planted in my heart during an Easter sermon in 2016, when I was startled into a deep admiration for this remarkable woman of faith. “Why haven’t I been encouraged to be more like Martha?” I wondered. Martha . . . a woman who learned from her mistakes and took the living God at His word. A woman who confessed Jesus as the resurrection and the life while her brother was four days dead in a tomb. Her trajectory in Scripture from worry to radical trust is one to emulate and it led me to ask: What happened in this woman’s heart?

In ife was like before . The story traces all the “many things” that worried and troubled Martha’s heart and the Christ who pinpointed her pain, met her in the midst of it, and lifte her up. We watch Martha come of age as she works through her mother’s death and the heavy responsibility of raising her siblings. We journey with Martha as she experiences first love and learns to shoulder the mantle of womanhood, even while coping with a father who is stuck in his loss. When grief comes to Martha’s own heart, she is presented with a choice. Will she cling to her hurt more than to Adonai, the way her father has done? Or is there a better way forward?

May this story encourage you to remain openhearted even when life feels unbearably hard, to pin your hopes to Jesus, the only One able to lift you up from the ashes of grief.

While you read, consider listening to the Up from Dust playlist! It’s full of inspirational music that ties into the themes from the book. Give it a listen HERE. Happy reading (and listening)!

Surrendering with you to Him,

Heather

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 26

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 27

Texas Book-aholic, March 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 30

For Him and My Family, March 31

The Lofty Pages, March 31

Splashes of Joy, April 1

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 2

She Lives To Read, April 3

Cover Lover Book Review, April 4

Artistic Nobody, April 5 (Spotlight)

Labor Not in Vain, April 6

Mary Hake, April 6

Holly’s Book Corner, April 7

Pause for Tales, April 8

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Heather is giving away the grand prize package of a $15 gift card to Amazon and a paperback copy of Up from Dust!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/2aa71/up-from-dust-martha-s-story-celebration-tour-giveaway