The Apostle's Sister by Angela Hunt // Review

My Review: 

Aya is a talent singer, who longs for more than marriage and children. A marriage is arranged for her to a scholar, Avidan, who moves her to the bustling streets of Jerusalem, close to her brother Sha'ul. 

A compelling Biblical novel, I liked how it follows Aya, Sha'ul, and Avidan through the years. Jerusalem is full of unrest with the Romans pushing their control, while Yeshua and his followers are bringing division. Aya grows into her role as a wife, and I liked how she reads along with her husband, as well as her determination to make a home for her son in hard times.

Well written novel that brings to life the time period, with the tensions between the Jews and the Romans, and the way that Yeshua fulfills the promises of the Old Testament. A beautiful story of hope in the days of the early church. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. 

 Buy it here: The Apostle's Sister by Angela Hunt 

 * As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Eternity Gate by Katherine Briggs // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

 

Book: The Eternity Gate

Author: Katherine Briggs

Genre: YA Fantasy

Release Date: September 12, 2023

Destroy the key. Save her people and herself.

The Eternity Gate is found, and kings and monsters battle over its legends of treasure. But rumors whisper that someone stole the gate’s ancient key.

Seyo, handmaiden to the princess, keeps three secrets. First, she’s gifted in fire, not light, and may as well be cursed. Second, she translates a prophecy warning that the gate does not offer treasure but judgment. Third, Jorai, the scorned prince and Seyo’s confidant, entrusts her with the key and disappears.

Surrounded by war, Seyo and her companions embark on a journey to seek help from a faraway empire and find Jorai, unaware of the trap awaiting them. But what should Seyo do with the key? Who can survive judgment, especially someone as flawed as her? Will hiding the key—or destroying it—save her people or ensure their defeat?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Review:

A brilliant adventure filled with intrigue, an ancient treasure that has the power to send their world into turmoil. 

An entertaining read for fantasy lovers, with a building plot, and a setting that felt inspired by Asian culture to me. I liked that the story had good tension, and strong themes of faith and redemption throughout. Seyo is a strong protagonist, complex and compassionate. I liked her friendship with Geras, and how she chooses to see him and his gifting, and will be interested to see where it goes. 

The prose was at times abrupt, and more of an overview at times, and at first I found myself going back and re-reading lines here and there but as I got used to it, that didn't happen so much. Might be just a personal quirk of my own. 

Overall, a high stakes fantasy, with flawed characters, and plenty of twists along the way. I loved the message of God being able to use each of our unique gifts for good. A great introduction to a new-to-me-author! I will be interested to see what happens next. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. 

About the Author

Katherine Briggs crafted her first monster story at age three. Since graduating from crayons to laptop, she continues to devour and weave fantasy tales while enjoying oolong or chai tea. Katherine, her coadventurer husband, and rescue dog reside outside Houston, where she classically educates amazing middle school students, teaches ESL to adults, and studies other languages.

 

More from Katherine

Hello friend,

 

Journey. Friendship. Choices. Do these three words resonate with—even haunt—you too?

 

As I mature, I see my life and those of others’ as a journey. Aren’t you glad that, through Jesus, it’s leading somewhere amazing, and that the twists and turns have a purpose?

 

Believing thought leaders look at trends in current culture and diagnose that we’ve forgotten how to be a friend. What ingredients make a strong friendship? A listening ear? Sacrifice? Loyalty? Speaking truth in love? Encouragement? Are you honored to participate in an “unlikely friendship,” meaning someone who is different from you?

 

I’m sure you’ve faced many choices, even those of the impossible variety. Are you facing such a choice right now? Can you remember a past impossible choice and the light, albeit hard to see, that was always shining through?

 

Seyo, the main character in my debut YA fantasy The Eternity Gate, can relate. Even though she hides that she inherited the wrong gifting, her enemy’s gifting, she embarks on a journey across dangerous lands to save her country, despite feeling unworthy. She travels with friends and makes some surprising new ones. Along the way, she’s faced with unfathomable choices that will determine the fate of her home. Choices much too big for her shoulders, but that’s because she, like us, has Someone far more powerful helping her.

 

I encourage you to grab a tasty, warm drink. Since it’s autumn, I suggest The Republic of Tea’s pumpkin spice latte, and you can click here to grab the recipe. Sit back, relax, and remember:

 

• What part of your journey has made you stronger?
• Is there a friend you can reach out to with an encouraging word?
• Small actions change the world. Don’t give up.

 

Sip your cozy drink and please enjoy Seyo’s journey. I hope The Eternity Gate invites you into a grand adventure.

 

Sincerely,

Katherine Briggs

Blog Stops

Bliss, Books & Jewels, September 21 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 21

Texas Book-aholic, September 22

Through the Fire Blogs, September 23 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 24

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 25

Artistic Nobody, September 26 (Author Interview)

Madi’s Musings, September 26

The Book Club Network, September 27

Guild Master, September 28 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 29

Blogging With Carol, September 30

Labor Not in Vain, October 1

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 2 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 3

Simple Harvest Reads, October 4 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Katherine is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Barnes and Noble gift card and one hardcover copy of The Eternity Gate!!

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/27fb7/the-eternity-gate-celebration-tour-giveaway

*post contains affiliate links

Against the Wind by Amanda Cabot // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Louisa Vaughn returns to her hometown, she doesn't plan to stay, but small town intrigue and a wounded stranger compel here to stay. Louise has grown up a lot while training to be a doctor, I admired how she is a determined hard-worker, and refuses to complain even though returning home is hard for her in many ways, I liked that she was able to use her skills to help the people around her. 

Josh is very supportive of Louisa from the start, he is a fair and kind man who brings out the best in others around him. I enjoyed getting to know the many characters and the small town subplots, along with the secrets. 

An entertaining read with a sweet romance, wonderful characters, and a story infused with faith. I'm excited to read the final book in the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3EILFSz

*As an Amazon affiliate I earn a small commission from qualifying sales 

Redeeming the Cowboy by Lisa Jordan // Review

Review: A story of friendship, forgiveness and second chances. 

Piper Healy has never forgiven Bear Stone for the death of her husband, now five years later they are working together to save the Stone Ranch by bringing in alternate income in the form of guests. 

After getting over their initial awkwardness Bear and Piper make a great team, and working with each other gives them time to come to an understanding. It was fun to see Aunt Lynette get involved too with her strong faith and matchmaking. Avery is a cute book-loving girl, and I liked how Bear takes the time to get to know her. 

This was an enjoyable read with great characters, with themes of faith and forgiveness. Bear is a kind man with big dreams, and a good work ethic. An engaging read with well paced plot and romance you can root for. Great for fans of sweet western romances!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3ZkrIL3

   * As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Blind // Movie Review and Giveaway

Experience the incredible true story of Phil & Kay Robertson from Duck Dynasty in the new movie, The Blind, coming to theaters September 28th! 

Long before Phil Robertson was a reality TV star, he fell in love, started a family, and began to spiral out of control. THE BLIND shares never-before-revealed moments in Phil’s life as he seeks to conquer the shame of his past, ultimately finding redemption in an unlikely place.  

Buy tickets today to see The Blind only in theaters starting 9/28!

https://theblindmovie.com/

My Review:

A powerful and compelling film of redemption based on the true story of Duck Dynasty's Phil Robertson.

The movie chronicles his youth and relationship with Miss Kay and into his hard partying ways before he met the Lord. The film deals with difficult topics and before he came to Christ Phil was not a kind man. The film, while not overly explicit, doesn't shy away from showing that he was abusive towards his family, and was heavy into drink. There is language, and some scenes are hard to watch, but I think they are authentic to the story and a testament to God's redeeming power. 

Th film is very well done with a great cast that bring Phil Robertson's origins to life, I loved that the film was very centered on telling the raw and honest story of how he came to know Christ, and the power of God on his life and marriage. It was also fun seeing Si portrayed in his younger years, before becoming the icon that we know and love today. 

Overall, a powerful and inspiring movie based on the life of Phil Robertson, produced by Willie and Korie Robertson. Well worth the watch, a great movie for those familiar with the Duck Dynasty family or for those who are new to Phil's amazing story. Definitely recommend!

 #TheBlindMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Tread Lively for providing a sample of the product for this review.  Opinions are 100% my own.

*Disclaimer: This movie is rated PG-13 for thematic content & smoking. However, all the "gritty" elements of this film are redeemed when the Robertsons come to know the Lord!*

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card 

(Note: This is limited to US winners only).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Restoring Their Family by Allie Pleiter // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Widowed mother of two, Kate Hoyle, has been worn ragged carrying the grief of losing her husband while trying to take care of her children. She hopes that True North Springs Family Camp will be just what her grieving family needs. 

A heartwarming and emotional journey of healing faith, and love. Kate is a loving mom, who wants the best for her children and has been doing her best to hold onto hope. I loved how her kids take to being in Colorado, and Kent opens up to the cook Seb, who has his own past that he is trying to put to rest. Kimmy is so adorable. 

A wonderful story of healing hearts, faith and second chances. Great relationship building interaction, and realistic character growth. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

 Buy it here: Restoring Their Family by Allie Pleiter 

* As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

We Three Kings by Crystal Caudill, Cara Putnam, and Angela Ruth Strong // Review

My Review: 

Star of Wonder by Crystal Caudill

Can Celestia convince Aldrich to take a chance on their love when he will be moving across the ocean?

An engaging read with likable characters, filled with adventure and romance on a steamer's maiden voyage. I really liked the strong themes of faith in this Christmas novella, as well as the realistic relationship caught between friend and more than friends. There is mystery, action, and humor in this transatlantic romance. 

Beauty Bright by Cara Putnam

2 generations later Monuments Man Charles Wiese finds himself working alongside Lillian Thorsen to restore the works of art to their original owners as Christmas time nears. 

Rich in history this book does an excellent job of bringing to life the dismal aftermath of the war on Germany. Likable characters, and rich in history. I loved the family connection in these stories, of the "Wiese Men." 

Perfect Light by Angela Ruth Strong

Set in the present day, newly divorced and pregnant single mom, Lacey Foster is the even planner in charge of putting together a winter wonderland of activities for local millionaire essential oils mogul Brendon Wise's Christmas festival. Will she let her past keep her from a second chance at love? 

One of my favorite stories in the collection, I loved the unconventional timing of the relationship, as well as the strong themes of faith throughout, pointing to Christ as the true reason for the season, and as Savior. There was great interaction and humor in this modern day rom-com, and I loved Brendon's big heart for others. 

Overall, a wonderful novella collection with stories of finding love and having faith through three generations of Wiese men. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. 

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/48v37aA

 * As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Art of Writing Webinars 2023 // Just Read Takeover Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for The Art of Writing 2023 webinars, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

You are Invited

The Art of Writing 

Thursday evenings, 7 p.m. CT 

online October 19, October 26, November 2, November 9

This virtual conference for writers, storytellers, and publishing curators includes access and recordings to four webinars organized by publishers.

Session One: Dispelling the Myths Around Christian Fiction Thursday, October 19, 7 p.m. central Kelsey Bowen, Jamie Lapeyrolerie, Rachel McMillan

Christian fiction is alive and well and this will be a great opportunity to hear more. Join a panel of publishing experts as they dispel myths surrounding this genre. This session will encourage you to replace unsettling rumors with exciting truths and be reminded of the unique and powerful place that Christian storytelling has in our world. 

 

Session Two: How Great Books Can Improve Your Novel and Your Life 

Thursday, October 26, 7 p.m. central 

Claude Atcho, Jamie Lapeyrolerie

This session will provide dynamic conversation with authors and publisher sharing great works that provide excellent examples of authentic scenes, character arcs, characters with varying life experiences, and more -- to help you write a really great book. Come away with a few must-reads and a list of excellent writing examples to inspire your own craft. 

Session Three: Publishing Doesn’t Have to Terrify You! 

Thursday, November 2, 7 p.m. central 

Stephanie Broene, Tamela Hancock Murray, Barb Roose, Laura Wheeler

Writing a book is only the beginning of the publishing process and it can feel overwhelming. After you sign a contract or decide to self-publish, what comes next? With a panel of publishing experts, we’ll cover publishing aspects everyone needs to know, such as: How do I get endorsers? If I need an authenticity reader, where do I start? How can an agent help me in the process? If I’m just starting to build a platform, what should I focus on? Come away with tips and tricks that cover all areas of publishing! 

Session Four: Going Deep with Award-Winning Authors 

Thursday, November 9, 7 p.m. central 

Patricia Raybon, Steven James, Becky Wade

Hear and learn from the life songs of three award-winning authors who will weave their real-life tales about writing fiction later in life, moving from nonfiction to fiction, then gaining a “seat” in the Christy Hall of Fame. Find out what motivates them, how they stay inspired, and what encouragement they have to pass on to fellow writers. Patricia, Sean, and Becky will provide a peek into their world to help you, with pen in hand.

Added Bonus

All registrants to the Art of Writing sessions can opt to “add-on” a publisher consult. Choose one or more of these small group sessions with a publisher: Pitch & Publish, Ask Me Anything, Strengthen Your Proposal & Get Your Foot in the Door, Calling All Debut Authors. Time/dates are determined based on attendee and moderator schedules. Space is limited. First come, first served.

Learn More about The Art of Writing 2023 Webinar Series

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Register

Save the dates for The Christy Award Finalists Webcast & Winners Gala Webcast on October 12 and November 16, respectively. Hall of Fame author Chris Fabry and ECPA's Jeff Crosby will be announcing the 2023 finalists on October 12 at 11 a.m. CT. Janette Oke, Davis Bunn, and other award-winning novelists will be featured and winners announced during the 2023 Winners Gala Webcast on November 16 at 7 p.m. CT. The Christy Award webcasts are free but registration is required.

The Christy Award® is a program of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) and is the foremost award honoring and promoting excellence in Christian fiction since 1999. For more information about ECPA, visit ECPA.org. For more information about the Christy Awards and Art of Writing conferences, visit ChristyAwards.com or email TheChristyAward@ecpa.org

Register Now for The Art of Writing & The Christy Award web events

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive their choice of The Art of Writing registration OR print copies of The Christy Award finalist titles for one category!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 20, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 27, 2023. 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.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

Shadowcast by Crystal M. Grant // Guest Post // Just Read

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Shadowcast by Crystal D. Grant, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Shadowcast
Series: The Gateway Trilogy
Author: Crystal D. Grant
Publisher: Quill and Flame Publishing
Release Date: September 20, 2023
Genre: Fantasy Romance (Clean)

He has known nothing but darkness for years. Now it’s time to let it consume him. 

After witnessing the brutal death of his brother at the hands of the Steward Knights, Mason Grey turns to vengeance. Using his Gifts to read and control the minds of others, he climbs the ranks of the Dark Army, determined to earn the coveted Shadowstone-a powerful tool against the light-wielding Stewards. But when he is wounded in battle, he finds himself recovering in the home of a chatty peasant girl...without the use of his Gifts. Even worse, the girl mistakes him for one of the Stewards he despises. 

Seria Gayle longs to be seen as more than the town washerwoman. When she finds an injured Steward in the woods, she welcomes the chance to use her healing skills and hopes it will earn her some respect. But as she nurses the sullen stranger back to health, she discovers he is nothing like the knights she has long admired. 

When Mason's true identity is revealed, Seria is devastated and humiliated. But she is offered a chance at redemption by the very prince that Mason hates. Now Mason struggles between two choices: accept the Shadowstone to avenge his brother or pursue this newfound light in the form of a peasant girl. With time running out and war looming, will Mason and Seria defy their own convictions for a chance at love or stand against one another like they've sworn to do?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Guest Post by Crystal D. Grant: What is your favorite thing about writing fantasy? 

When I read or watch an epic fantasy story, it always moves me emotionally. I get invested in the characters—their struggles, hopes and dreams, failures and successes, etc. I love the relationships that come out of the journeys that they go through together. (Sam and Frodo, anyone??) And in those big climactic moments, when all seems lost against the forces of evil, the hero stands up and fights anyway. And usually, victory comes to the side of the good, even though it may come at a cost. Those kinds of stories strike a cord deep inside me. I find myself thinking about them long after I’ve finished. And I think the reason for that is it turns my thoughts to spiritual warfare. We face our own dragons and monsters, and we have our own everyday heroes who fight them alongside us. Most importantly, we have a Source of power and goodness, One who was willing to sacrifice His own life in order to save us. 

Fantasy always turns my mind to spiritual things, makes me stop and think a little deeper about the battles we face in life. While the external situations in those stories may be vastly different than what we face in the real world, I find that the internal battles are much the same. We seek for courage to face our trials or redemption for our past mistakes. We struggle to rise about our current situations and find something that fills us with purpose. We fight to resist the forces of darkness that try to blind us to truth and light. 

When I write fantasy, I always find myself thinking of the deeper issues the characters are facing, and I love to explore those spiritual themes. Fantasy stories tend to be bigger in scale, higher in stakes, and deeper in meaning. And those are the kinds of stories that inspire and encourage readers. They give hope to those who are in the middle of their own journeys, adventures, and battles. 

And that is why I love writing them.

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About the Author

Crystal D. Grant is a daydreamer who adores freshly-baked cookies and anything with fur or feathers. During the day, she strives to instill a love of books and learning within her young students. As a hearing-impaired, home-school graduate, she found her voice in writing and has had multiple short stories and poems published. When she’s not reading or writing stories that sweep her away to another time and place, she watches classic movies and TV shows that do the same. Or she works on jigsaw puzzles. Crystal currently resides in smalltown Missouri, where she is always looking for space for another scented candle.

Connect with Crystal by visiting crystalgrantauthor.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a signed copy of Shadowcast, book swag, and exclusive color art from the book!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 18, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 25, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

Journey to Bethlehem // Official Trailer

It is never too early to celebrate the birth of Christ. Take time this holiday season to celebrate God's greatest gift with your family and Journey to Bethlehem! I'm excited to watch the birth of Christ come to life in this brand new musical performance!

About JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM

A young woman carrying an unimaginable responsibility. A young man torn between love and honor. A jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown. This live-action Christmas musical adventure for the entire family weaves classic Christmas melodies with humor, faith and new pop songs in a retelling of the greatest story ever told, the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus. A unique new entry into the collection of holiday classic movies, this epic Christmas musical is unlike any before it.

Journey to Bethlehem is coming to theaters 11/10/23 ! 

#JourneyToBethlehemMIN