Along a Storied Trail by Ann H. Gabhart // Review

My Review: Set up high in Appalachia during the depression comes a heartwarming tale of love and family.

Tansy Calhoun has found her dream job supporting her family as packhorse librarian, sharing her love of reading with those in her community, as hard times draw them even closer. Caleb Barton is back to help his family after the death of his brother and years working with the CCC. In the past his feelings have been misinterpreted but do his hopes have a chance against his mother's solutions?

A pleasant and enjoyable read set in the beautiful Appalachians, during the Great Depression, which is one of my favorite places and times to read about. The story takes its time wending its way through the characters and their various situations, I especially liked sweet little Coralee, how she soothes the way for others, helping out where she can, and her friendship with Aunt Perdita.

Caleb is a responsible man, always ready to help out, but I also liked that he showed his backbone and put this foot down when people tried to push him too far.  

Overall, this was a great read with a full cast of intriguing characters that I came to care for over the course of the book. The pacing was slower than I was used to, and there were times when I felt that the plot was predictable, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I definitely could see where it was ultimately headed. I loved the slow build friendships and relationships, this was a heartwarming read of faith, family and friendship. 

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

Man with a Past by Mary Connealy // Review

Lucie's Review:

Falcon's story continues in the second installment of The Brothers in Arms Series. After getting shot Falcon awakens with no memories of his former life or the current situation, as he and his brothers fight to protect their inheritance from the father they barely knew. As the memories flicker back, it makes him question what kind of man he was and what it means for his future. 

I was thrilled to get the opportunity to read this book, after devouring the first book in the series about Kevin and Win. Fraught with danger,  rollicking adventure, and a fantastic cast of characters. I would definitely recommend reading the series in order to make more sense of the backstory, and the more than a little confusing family relations. 

 Falcon is a resourceful man, who has lived off the land, he's okay with being a loner, I admired his faith and how he holds himself to a high standard. Cheyenne has spent her life working the land that she loves only to be cut out of the will, and is upset to have her birthright stolen from her. She begrudgingly admires Falcon's skills in the wilderness, and how he doesn't back down from a fight, letting him befriend her as she begins to see what a kind and noble man he is. 

An action packed read with Connealy's signature humor, a fast paced plot filled with mystery, danger, outlaws and dialogue crackling with chemistry and humor. I loved that the timeline of this story overlaps with that of the previous story, and continues to follow Kevin and Win. I can't wait to read Wyatt's story and find out what is really going on behind all the mysterious attacks. 

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

Her Small Town Secret by Brenda Minton // Review

Lucie's Review:

Everything is finally starting to fall into place for single mother Avery Hammons and her daughter Quinn, moving back to her hometown and building a home, until she comes face to face with the man who left her 11 years ago. 

A heartwarming second chance romance, with a welcoming small town community. Avery has worked hard to make a life for herself and her daughter, it was easy to understand her protectiveness as well as her fears in letting Grayson into their lives. I admired her for stepping out in faith, and giving Grayson a chance. 

Grayson has been through a lot of things, he does a great job of connecting with Quinn, and gives the farm work his best shot even though he doesn't know much about rural living. He is a charming man, and I liked that he was up for trying new things. 

Overall, this was a sweet romance, themes of faith, and humorous moments involving the stubborn but adorable animals that Grayson's father bought. Quinn is a sweet girl, and I liked how Avery and Grayson reconnect and rebuild trust along the way. The story is well paced, with a lot going on, a great setting and good side characters. 

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

The Visual Word: Illustrated Outlines of the New Testament Books by Patrick Schreiner and illustrated by Anthony M. Benedetto // Review

Review:

A beautiful and well laid-out resource, excellent compliment to personal Bible study or to share in group settings. 

I was intrigued by the idea of a visual outline of Scripture and how it would work. I've been a Bible reader from a young age, but still struggle to place where exactly certain passages are, or how the themes connect to a broader theme throughout without too much generalization. And to my delight this book was exactly what I thought it would be and more. 

This book is a wonderful resource and aid, useful in many settings, I appreciated the well thought out illustrated medallions and how they are connected in the various diagrams to show the flow and connecting themes, though the use of a hand with an eye inset looking very similar to a hamsa, (a symbol tied to Middle Eastern mysticism), as the symbol for The Word of Life in the section on 1st, 2nd, 3rd John gave me pause. 

Overall, this is a valuable tool for Bible study, with excellent summaries by Patrick Schreiner that do a great job of showing the overarching themes and narrative of the New Testament, the Gospel, and what that means for us. It would make a great gift as a study aid, or a great purchase for yourself. I look forward to using it personally in my study for many years to come. 

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

An Unlikely Match by Beth Wiseman // Review

My Review:

Adorable elderly Amish innkeepers Esther and Lizzie are back in this heartwarming romance of forbidden love as a movie set rolls into their small Amish community.

Evelyn doesn't want to settle in love, and she is intrigued by Jayce Clarkson who is working hard to make his own way while putting in his time with his father's production company. I liked their easy friendship, and Jayce is a thoughtful man with dreams of his own, and I loved how he get's on well with Lizzie and Esther. 

I like that this series follows the sisters Lizzie and Esther, one of my favorite parts of the story is the friendship between Esther and Gus, and I was so happy to see it continued from the previous book. Rose is a hardworking, well meaning young woman, and I couldn't help but admire her determination and industry. 

Overall, a charming Amish romance, with wonderful engaging characters, a fun plot, humor, faith and family. 

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

The Vanishing at Loxby Manor by Abigail Wilson // Review

Review:

A gripping story of heartache, betrayal and intrigue, set against the backdrop of Regency Era England. 

Charity Halliwell returns to Loxby Manor to spend time with family friends, but the sudden disappearance of her friend Seline tosses everything into question as rumors fly and reputations are threatened. Charity must join forces with the man who broke her heart, the brother of Seline, Piers Cavanagh to find out who and what they are dealing with. 

An engaging tale of adventure and intrigue right from the start, a full cast of characters and motives leave no one safe from suspicion. Charity is more mature and not as carefree as she once was, and I admired her determination to help her friend and not let her past keep her passive. The rich backstory adds to the plot, and I liked how the twists and turns kept me guessing. 

 Honor and loyalty are tested, while some are left to suffer the fallout, this is a hard to put down read that had me up later than is practical to find out what would happen. I liked that it had me wondering right up to almost the end. And I think the social obstacles were realistic, and understandable, making the tentative alliance between Piers and Charity all the more tension fraught and uncertain. 

Overall, a riveting read of intrigue, betrayal and enduring love, that I thoroughly enjoyed. There is a lot going on between the social intrigue, as well as the dark secrets that threaten their very futures. Well executed plot, good pacing, and a fantastic cast of characters make this an excellent read for fans of historical suspense romance!

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

Pearl's Promise by Edwina Kiernan // JustRead Tour, Review, Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Pearl's Promise by Edwina Kiernan, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Pearl's Promise 

Series: Gems of Grace #2 

Author: Edwina Kiernan 

Publisher: Moliant Publishing 

Release Date: May 1, 2021 

Genre: Christian Historical Romance 

A duty-bound heir. A dejected spinster. An encounter that could ruin both their families' demands for their futures... 

Horrified to see the man she had always dreamed of marrying saying his vows to someone else, Pearl Acton’s devastation only seems to confirm one of her deepest fears - that she’ll remain unseen and alone, never mattering to anyone. 

And when her family falls on hard times and seeks to marry her off to a wealthy suitor as soon as possible, her other deepest fear seems inevitable - being trapped in a loveless marriage, just like her parents. 

Until an encounter with a quiet and soulful heir, Nicholas Dalton, sparks a fragile hope that perhaps Pearl might save her family’s fortune and marry for love. 

But when circumstances on both sides of their families take drastic turns, the promise of happiness seems irrevocably shattered. 

As Pearl and Nicholas each strive to uphold their family duties, they soon discover that things aren’t quite what they seem. But is it too late to escape their crushing obligations and forge a new path - together? 

Review:

An engaging regency romance, with a winsome heroine, a reserved but dashing hero, both with obligations to their families that stand in the way of them being together. 

I loved how the Maxwell's take Pearl under their wings, to help her navigate society during a season. They are a warm and welcoming older couple, like a second set of parents to Pearl, and a wonderful example of faith and love in a marriage. There is a lot going on with all of the events and social gatherings, as Pearl's parents push her ever closer to an unwanted match. 

Overall, this is a well written and entertaining Regency Era romance, with a well paced plot, as well as excellent and endearing characters. Nicholas is a more reserved man, respectful, but he also knows when to make a statement. He is a man of faith, with a kind heart, open to new ideas and is supportive of Pearl throughout. Perfect read for fans of regency romance!

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

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Edwina Kiernan is a Christian writer, and author of the well-received Inspirational Regency romance novel, Ruby’s Redemption.

An enthusiast of classic novels and history, Edwina combines her faith, imagination, and research in hope-infused tales set in times past. Her latest novel is the second in the Inspirational Regency romance series, Gems of Grace. 

A lifelong word admirer, with Welsh and Irish heritage, she started writing stories early in childhood. She still loves to learn, taking courses from places like Oxford University and the Beau Monde, for both fun and further education. 

When she’s not writing, Edwina loves spending time with her dashing husband and lively little son, reading and studying the Bible, getting lost in a captivating novel, and drinking more types of tea than most people realize even exist. 

 For free gifts, updates, and lots of classic and historical fiction goodness, join her mailing list at EdwinaKiernan.com

CONNECT WITH EDWINA: Website | Facebook | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Pearl's Promise and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 22, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on June 29, 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.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Stealing the First Mate by Tabitha Bouldin // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, Giveaway

About the Book

 

Book: Stealing the First Mate

Author: Tabitha Bouldin

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: June 29, 2021

 

Sometimes, happily ever after is as elusive as a pirate’s treasure.

Darcy Riggins dove headfirst into the online dating pool and sank. Every time.

Her lifelong dream of becoming a wife and mother becomes more elusive every year. So, taking the lack of a Mr. Right in her life as a decided “No!” from God, Darcy gives up altogether.

Single and happy is not an oxymoron. Right?

Nigel Jones has loved Darcy for ages, but her father (his boss, of course) ordered him to keep his feelings to himself, thanks to a stupid mistake that Darcy (thankfully) doesn’t know about.  Too bad her dad does.

Being single and content turns out to be tougher than Darcy imagined, and when she begins doubting everything she’s ever known, Nigel decides it’s time to admit his mistakes, tell the , and trust God for the outcome.

In this “forbidden-love-meets-friends-to-more” novel, Stealing the First Mate continues the Elnora Island romances of the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A sweet friends to lovers romance, set in the beautiful Independence Islands.

Nigel and Darcy have been friends since the first grade, and I liked the friendship and how Nigel is always there for Darcy even when he knows that it may eventually lead to his own heartbreak. Nigel is a great guy, with a mistake that has haunted him for years. I admired how he acts with honor and respect towards Darcy's father, even when things get difficult. I like how they are both forced to come to some life changing realizations over the course of the story, and that they are both strong Christians. 

The story is sweet, and the road blocks that they endured are understandable. This was a fun enjoyable read, and I liked seeing familiar faces from previous books pop up here and there throughout. 

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

About the Author

Tabitha Bouldin has a bachelor’s degree in creative writing/English from Southern New Hampshire University. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and has been writing since 2015. When she’s not homeschooling her kids, you’ll find her curled up with a book. Tabitha’s genre of choice is Contemporary Christian Romance which she describes as: Adventure with heart.

 

More from Tabitha

I love the friends-to-something-more trope. There’s something invigorating about the challenges of stepping into a different kind of relationship with someone you already know and trust. The risk of losing the friendship if things go badly comes to the forefront and each character has to decide if they’ll take the risk or keep things as they are.

For Nigel and Darcy, there’s the added difficulty of Nigel’s unrequited love. They’ve been best friends forever, and he’s loved Darcy all that time. And she’s clueless! How does that happen?

I wish I could say this story came from my own experience, but that isn’t the case. While my husband and I knew each other for several years before we started dating, we were hardly friends. High school social circles are brutal things. Plus, he had a crush on my cousin, and I was dating someone else.

But it all worked out.

And we’re best friends now.

When it came time to write Stealing the First Mate, I knew Nigel and Darcy were friends. It wasn’t until I worked my way through the first chapter that the depth of their relationship started to emerge, and I realized they were best friends. Darcy runs to Nigel for advise (even dating advise, which became really awkward for Nigel).

Darcy has been looking for Mr. Right so long she can’t see the truth staring back at her in Nigel’s eyes.

Writing their story is one of the most enjoyable experiences I’ve had in writing.

Blog Stops

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, June 14

Life, Love, Writing, June 14

lakesidelivingsite, June 15

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, June 15

The Sacred Line, June 15

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, June 16

Blossoms and Blessings, June 16

Texas Book-aholic, June 17

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, June 17 (Author Interview)

Inklings and notions, June 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 18

Cultivating Us, June 18

deb's Book Review, June 19

Connect in Fiction, June 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 20

Blogging With Carol, June 20

Sodbuster Living, June 20

Remembrancy, June 21

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting, June 21

Library Lady's Kid Lit, June 22

For Him and My Family, June 22

Aryn The Libraryan , June 23

Lots of Helpers, June 23

Labor Not in Vain , June 23

She Lives To Read, June 24

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 25

Joanne Markey, June 25

Splashes of Joy, June 26

Kayem Reads, June 26

Reflections From My Bookshelves, June 27

Simple Harvest Reads, June 27 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tabitha is giving away the grand prize package a $50 Amazon gift card and a 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/10d56/stealing-the-first-mate-celebration-tour-giveaway

On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor by Jaime Jo Wright // Review

My Review:

A chilling dual-timeline tale of secrets, treasure, betrayal, and love.

Kailey Gibson returns to Foxglove Manor, a place that holds the key to her painful childhood, alongside her brother Jude who has a brilliant mind for pattern and sequences. 

In 1885 Adria Fontaine, at war with her own demons, has been sentenced to Foxglove Manor to search for her infamous father's stolen treasure. But an uneasy presence hangs over the manor, can she escape the darkness with her life?

A highly entertaining and deliciously gothic timeslip novel that skillfully weaves together dual timelines centering around the enigmatic Foxglove Manor which in the present day has been turned into an old folk's home. This book's skillful twists had me guessing until the end, I didn't want to put it down! Mr. Crayne is the perfect tortured hero, noble in an unconventional way, amidst fighting for his own soul, I never thought that I would find myself liking him so much!

Kailey is a strong heroine, she has had to be. I loved her relationship with her brother, Jude, how she is protective of him and sees him as an equal when others don't. Jude is a brilliant man who sees things that others can't, making sense out of chaos. 

The author did an excellent job throughout of dealing with difficult topics like addiction, suicide, trauma, as well as questioning and doubting. Axel is a man of few words, but strong faith and I liked how he was there for Kailey throughout their ordeal. 

Overall, a beautiful, twisting and at times chillingly gothic tale of greed and secrets. Nobody does this genre like Jaime Jo Wright, who had me equally engaged in both of the timelines and hanging on tight trying to make the connections. A brilliant tale of murder and mystery, On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor. Highly recommend!

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

Dwell on These Things Inspiration Cards by John Stange // Review

About Dwell on These Things Inspiration Cards Your daily inspiration is never far from reach with this unique set of cards that encourage you to see yourself through God's eyes, featuring messages that are biblical and beneficial, all designed to be displayed with the included stand. Countless messages enter our hearts and minds each day. Some of these messages are true and helpful. Others are hurtful, destructive, and out of line with the message God wants us to understand and embrace. What messages are you choosing to believe and repeat to yourself? When you first saw your reflection in the mirror this morning, what did your internal conversation sound like? Did you speak a message of hope to your heart or a diatribe of defeat? Based on the book Dwell on These Things by John Stange, this thirty-one-day inspirational card set will encourage you to change the message that enters your mind into a positive, biblical one. On the front of each beautifully designed card is a short message to remind you of how God views you and everyday situations. The back of the card reinforces that message with time-tested wisdom. Let this be your first step in a great journey toward self-love and self-acceptance! Change your life by changing the messages that enter your mind.

Review:

A collection of affirmations and encouragement, inspired by Scripture from John Stange's book by the same title. 

The cards are sturdy and of medium weight, there are thirty-one cards, the first side has a thought, and when turned over that is followed up with inspiring words along a more devotional bent. The cards come in a nice box, and display easily for daily use. My only complaint about the design is that the filler piece of cardboard that is used to filler the space between the holder and the cards to help display them more neatly, is very flimsy and kept popping out and flattening, leading to the cards spilling a couple times. But the cards are beautiful, and go well with the book that they were modelled after. 

Overall this set would make a nice gift, for a friend or family member, though I did often think while going through them that it would have been nice if the quotes had actually been Scripture rather than like sounding sentiments, though I think that might have to do more with being derived from a book. Nevertheless a very nice set of daily inspirational cards.

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

The Proposal by Tanya Eavenson // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, Giveaway

 

About the Book

Book:  The Proposal

Author: Tanya Eavenson

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: June 15, 2021

 

Oklahoma 1891

When the sheriff’s daughter goes into hiding from her father’s killer, her life isn’t the only thing in danger.

Jessica Thomson is fleeing the man who killed her father. But her
stagecoach is robbed, and when the stranger who rescues her declares she will be his wife, she does the only thing she knows to do—shove her revolver in his back. Never would she have expected he wore a star on his chest. Too bad she vowed never to love another lawman.

As sheriff, Blake McKenny prides himself on protecting his town’s people from danger, but his efforts didn’t include a headstrong woman bent on putting herself in harm’s way. When outlaws threaten his town and put Jessica’s life in danger, Blake’s failure to save his late wife haunts him.

Can Jessica and Blake forgive themselves for the past and protect each other—even if that costs them their hearts in the process?

 

Click here to get your copy!

Review: There's a lot going on and a lot to love in this fast paced Western romance. 

Blake and Jessica don't start out on the best of terms, as their first meeting is less than ideal, it starts them off kind of on the wrong foot. But as they get to know one another, and work together I loved seeing them get to know and trust each other. 

Blake still carries the guilt of not being able to protect his first wife, but he is a devoted Sheriff and takes his job seriously. He has a strong faith, leading by example. 

Jessica has been running for a long time and I liked how she reached out to the neighbor boys. There is a lot going on in this book, and despite being unsure at the start, it grew on me as they got to know each other, and the plot progressed. 

Overall, an adventure packed Western Romance, I loved Blake's friends that helped them along the way, as well as the strong faith shown in their lives. There's plenty of action and good interaction between the characters, making for a sold read. Perfect for fans of Western romance, like me!

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

About the Author

 

Tanya Eavenson is an award-winning Christian romance novelist. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their three children. Her favorite pastime is grabbing a cup of coffee, eating chocolate, and reading a good book. You can find her at her website http://www.tanyaeavenson.com/

 

More from Tanya

Fiction to Reality

Ever had those moments when you’re reading a novel and it’s as if the author wrote the story line, the characters, or included verses just for you? When your world turns from fiction to reality with the flip of a page?

 

At the beginning of December in 2014, I took a novel from my bookshelf, snuggled on the couch with a blanket, and began to read. The title of the novel is called The Rancher’s Reunion by Tina Radcliffe. The hero in the story is Will, and he has a hereditary disease that caused him to fear, not only his future, but in trusting God. And that’s when God used this story to speak to me.

 

“I’m scared, Annie.”

“I know, Will. I know.” She blinked back the moisture pricking her eyes.

“No, Annie. I don’t think you do. I’m not just scared. I’m terrified.”

 

And I understood Will’s fear. Weeks prior to reading this novel, my doctor told me I have cancer. It’s a single word that can change the course of your life, emotionally, physically, but not only yours, others around you. And though I knew God’s presence would be with me no matter what the future held, my desire to write or edit anything had vanished. Honestly, I wasn’t sure I wanted to write anymore with my future so uncertain. I wasn’t just scared, but terrified my time with my family would be shortened.

 

But as I continued to read Will’s story, God’s whispered words, Do not be afraid of things you cannot control, pray, and continue your call to write, took hold and draped around my heart.

I knew at that moment this book was meant to be read at this appointed time. That God was leading me to give Him every single fear, open my laptop, and begin to write again.

 

During the time I’d stopped writing, I was in the middle of two stories, a contemporary romance, and The Rescue, the first story in the All Roads Lead to Texas series. It took some months before I returned to writing, but I had to give my fears to God the only way I could. Like Will and Annie’s story, day by day. Moment by moment.

 

In my new novel, The Proposal, the second story in the All Roads Lead to Texas series, Jessica Thompson understands fear and must learn how to give it to God. She has her father’s killer on her trail and the only means for escape is to run, but she never counted on the sheriff of Graham, Texas, to get in her way.

 

Have you ever had a time in your life where fear caught you so unexpectedly that you didn’t know what to do next? Perhaps you didn’t know where to turn? Maybe couldn’t pray?

 

I’m here to tell you it’s okay. God knows how you feel, good or bad, it doesn’t change His love for you. Just remember, He’s with you, by your side through it all. He will never leave you.

Blog Stops

Rebecca Tews, June 18

Genesis 5020, June 18

Lighthouse Academy, June 19 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

deb's Book Review, June 20

Labor Not in Vain, June 20

For Him and My Family, June 21

Inklings and notions, June 22

Cats in the Cradle Blog, June 22

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess , June 23

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, June 24

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 25

Connie's History Classroom, June 26

Kayem Reads, June 26

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 27

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, June 28

Texas Book-aholic, June 29

Mary Hake, June 29

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, June 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tanya is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and 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/10db1/the-proposal-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Hunt for Fang by Amanda Cleary Estep // Review

Review:

The second in a series, Jack and Midge are still settling in to life in the suburbs with their new friends. Summer is full of new adventures and new friends, a wholesome middle-grade read, with strong themes of Creation and Stewardship.

A fun fast paced read, I loved getting to know more of the Tree Street kids in this second installation to the series, especially Ruthie and Roger as the kids head to Super Stewardship VBS. I loved Roger and his walkie talkie communication with his mother, and Ruthie's Capt. Beans photoshoots. 

This was a fun read that I enjoyed as an adult, with fun facts and wildlife survival tips thrown in along the way. I think that this would be a fun book to read aloud as a family before bedtime or great for middle grade readers, I loved the throwback to the 1990's which as a simpler time -- I feel so old saying that! 

Overall, a well balanced read with a great pace and excellent plot and characters. Strong themes of faith are integrated smoothly into the story. A stand out series for young readers that I would happily recommend!

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

The Heart's Charge by Karen Witemeyer // Review

Review:

Second chances, camaraderie, faith, horses and adorable children, what more could I ask for?

I had high expectations for this book, and have been eagerly awaiting its arrival since the moment I finished reading the previous book, and let me say it did not disappoint! This book is a total homerun, with both Mark and Jonah getting their stories in one fantastic book. 

Jonah is a brave man, a former Buffalo Soldier, he has a noble heart, is a quick thinker, is decisive, and I loved his magnificent horse, Augustus. I especially enjoyed his growing relationship with Eliza over the course of the story. She is a beautiful woman inside and out with a heart for children, to give each and every one a place to belong. I admired her faith and courage. 

Mark is confident and cool, he is a likable man who has a knack for getting people to talk to him, I loved his friendship with Jonah and thought that they made a stellar team. Mark is shocked to come face to face with the woman he has never been able to forget. After losing her place in society Katherine threw herself into helping the orphaned children alongside Eliza, I loved the friendship between the women. I admired her devotion to the children, and liked to see her and Mark working together.

 A engaging page-turner, that I didn't want to put down, and I didn't want to end. This book has it all, with amazing main characters that you can cheer for, great interaction, adorable children, strong faith, horses, with great pacing and plot building along the way. There is a lot going on in the book that keeps everything moving, and I absolutely loved having two heroes and heroines. Even though it's hard to choose, I think that this might be one of my favorites by Ms. Witemeyer! It does help to have read the first book in the series before this one so that the characters are more familiar, plus I don't know why in the world you'd want to skip At Love's Command. Highly recommend, another amazing read from Karen Witemeyer that lived up to and surpassed my high expectations!

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

The Songstress by Lori Bates Wright // Celebrate Lit, Review, Giveaway

 

About the Book

 

Book:  The Songstress

Author: Lori Bates Wright

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: April 16, 2021

Rising opera star, Juliana Chamberlain, still has nightmares of the night she witnessed the assassination of the President of the United States from her spot on stage at Ford Theater. Recruited by The Pinkerton Detective Agency, Juliana was instrumental in bringing those responsible to justice.

Now, two years later, the Pinkertons ask her once again to join forces in exposing a corrupt political organization terrorizing her home in Texas.

Texas Ranger, Cade Matlock, has a job to do. He needs no help from a meddlesome diva with big ideas. However, he is a man of his word. He’s committed to partner with the lovely songstress to smoke out the mastermind of a dangerous clan who has proven he will stop at nothing to satisfy his thirst for vengeance.

Cade and Juliana soon discover their greatest strength is in working together until shadows of the past threaten to destroy their future.

 

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 Review: A historical adventure filled with intrigue and romance.

Picking up two years after the assassination of President Lincoln, Juliana is still haunted by the events of that fateful night. She is recruited to help bring down a political extremist bent on revenge. She is a strong woman, capable of saving the day herself. 

This book is a little slower to start as the plot unfolds, and it takes a while the characters to trust one another. It has an interesting plot with plenty of twists and surprise connections along the way. Cade is a Texas Ranger, and isn't exactly happy to be working with Juliana to start, he is dedicated to his job and is good at what he does. I liked his quick thinking and protective nature.

Overall, this book kept me guessing as it didn't spend much times getting into their heads and the reasoning behind their actions, though there were times when I think that would have helped the book to flow better. I did really enjoy Dandy and his story arc over the course of the book, I loved his open and friendly demeanor. The book really picked up as the story progressed, filled with action and twists along the way. 

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

About the Author

Lori Bates Wright is an award winning author with a love for history.

Raised in New Mexico, Lori now lives in Texas with her husband of 38 years. She has two grown kids and four adorable grand boys (who leap tall buildings in a single bound!) When she’s not writing, she’s heading up small group ministries with her husband. She enjoys speaking and interacting with women of all ages.

 

More from Lori

Growing up, my family loved to laugh.

 

Some of my favorite childhood memories are centered around my grandmother’s dining room table listening in while my parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles told amazing stories. Sometimes I laughed until I’d lose my breath. Sometimes I sat quietly, taking in the bravery and perseverance shown by those who’d gone before me.

History has been a passion ever since. Couple that with an insatiable love for story and there you have the heart of what inspires me to write.

So, when it came time to brain-storm for this brand new series, I decided to take a known historical event and think about it from every angle. Beyond the recognized players, to the “what if” characters that might have played a role. And, ultimately, how such an event would have changed the course of their lives.

 

Thus, a star was born.

 

In THE SONGSTRESS, Juliana Chamberlain witnessed the assassination from her place on the stage. Because I love a little mystery and intrigue, I decided that the leading detective agency of the day would have enlisted her help in identifying the accomplices. Allen Pinkerton had been known to hire a lady detective or two, so she would be trained by the best. Her investigative skills proved helpful in bringing a quick resolution to the case.

Fast forward four years and she’s still haunted by what she saw that night. When Pinkerton again approaches her about a case involving her family in Texas, she accepts.

 

Being from Texas, I was so happy she did. I’ve wanted to write a story based in the Lone Star State for quite awhile. I loved visiting Georgia and the shores of England in my last series, but I have to say it was good to bring this one home. With all the rugged charm of the post-Civil War era, this book has a little more local flavor than my last three. Al-in-all, I believe my readers are in for a treat. A new cast of fun, quirky characters as we revisit a significant time in our nation.

 

So, here’s to new beginnings! Or as we say in Texas, “Hang on, y’all are in for a wild ride!”

Happy reading!
Lori

Blog Stops

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, June 11

Reflections From My Bookshelves, June 11

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, June 12

Connect in Fiction, June 12

Inklings and notions, June 13

Rebecca Tews, June 13

Texas Book-aholic, June 14

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 14

lakesidelivingsite, June 15

To Everything There Is A Season, June 15

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, June 15

For Him and My Family, June 16

Labor Not in Vain, June 16

deb's Book Review, June 17

Genesis 5020, June 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 18

HookMeInABook, June 18

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 19

Inside the Wong Mind, June 19

The Christian Fiction Girl, June 20

Connie's History Classroom, June 20

A Baker's Perspective, June 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 21

Blossoms and Blessings, June 22

Lis Loves Reading, June 22

Pause for Tales, June 23

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, June 23

Mary Hake, June 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 24

KarenSueHadley, June 24

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lori is giving away the grand prize package of a Texas Gift basket including a signed copy of THE SONGSTRESS and 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/10d53/the-songstress-celebration-tour-giveaway