Tacos for Two by Betsy St. Amant // Review

Review:

Rory Perez owns and operates Modest's most famous Mexican Food Truck, but she can't cook. When a cooking contest comes along that could secure the future of her niece, she knows that she needs to win, but could a new online romance and a rival food truck foil her plans?

A charming rom-com, with You've Got Mail vibes updated for the modern day and plenty of delicious food, you just can't go wrong with this delightful small town romance. I loved the secondary characters just as much as the main characters, especially Hannah, Grady, and Nicole. I loved how the author pulled me into the community of Modest, with how well developed the non-main characters were. 

Jude is a man with a passion for cooking and an identity beyond his powerhouse law firm family. His heart is in the right place, though his actions are often misinterpreted, I loved his genuineness and how he takes time to befriend Alton. There is a lot going on in this small town, and I loved that there were other things going on in the background. 

Overall, a completely enjoyable read, feel-good, with great humor, a smile wasn't far from my lips whenever I was reading this book. I love, love, loved the characters, and fun food filled plot. Definitely perfect for fans of rom-coms and tacos! 

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

Love and Lavender by Josi S. Kilpack // Review

Review:

Born with a clubfoot, Hazel Stillman wrote off marriage long ago forging her own future and finding work as a teacher at an elite girls' school. She is put off that her Uncle would offer her an inheritance based on her marriage, as that doesn't seem like a possibility for her. 

Duncan Penhale is a brilliant mind, calculating numbers, he is content in his life with his cat. The brother of his guardian offers him an inheritance if he marries well, which would help him branch out in his own. 

As situations change for both of them Uncle Elliott's incentives for marriage begins to look more tempting. Can their convenient arrangement become more?

A well written proper romance that continues to follow the Mayfield cousins as they find love with the help of their meddling Uncle Elliott. I loved Hazel and Duncan, they were two people that I could cheer for the whole way through. I liked that they were independent and content on their own, and connected openly finding common interests. I loved their debates, as well as how they both grow as individuals in their relationship, as well as their faith. I thought that it was great that Duncan found a great community of people who accepted his little quirks and respected him. 

A wonderful read with winning characters, excellent depth and development. It was probably my favorite of the series, because of how much I was cheering for Hazel and Duncan that whole way through, I liked them both a lot separately, and even more together! Highly recommend!

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

A Picture of Hope by Liz Tolsma // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

 

Book: A Picture of Hope

Author: Liz Tolsma

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: October, 2021

A Photojournalist Risks Her Life to Save Children

Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.

Journalist Nellie Wilkerson has spent the bulk of the war in London, photographing pilots taking off and landing—and she’s bored. She jumps at the chance to go to France, where the Allied forces recently landed. She enlists Jean-Paul Breslau of the French underground to take her to the frontlines. On the journey, they come upon an orphanage where nuns shelter children with disabilities. Can they help save them before the Nazis come to liquidate it?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A historically rich look at the dark last days of WWII, and the heroes who fought to protect the innocent. 

Photojournalist Nellie Wilkerson jumps at the chance to go to the front lines, she solicits the help of Jean-Paul a member of the French resistance. On their journey they encounter a young girl, who leads them to a convent where they find other children and nuns hiding from the wrath of the Nazis. 

A well researched novel that vividly brings to life the atrocities experienced by those who didn't fit the mold of what the Nazi ideals deemed "correct," as well as the horrors carried out after the D-day defeat. I think that the author realistically brings the time period to life, handling difficult topics well. Nellie is an admirable heroine, courageous and daring, she is an advocate for others. 

This is was a well written read, with strong characters and an engaging storyline full of intrigue and danger. I liked how it showed a unique side of the war, as well as the brave citizens that dared to defy the Nazis. Highly recommend this novel of love and sacrifice, bravery, and courage in the last days of the war. 

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

About the Author

Liz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a US Marine, and her oldest daughter is a college student. Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. Please visit her website at www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@LizTolsma), Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast.

 

More from Liz

Why Another WWII Novel Set in France

You may well read the back cover of my latest release, A Picture of Hope, and wonder why on earth we need another WWII novel set in France. After all, Kristy Cambron just had one. Melanie Dobson and Sarah Sundin will be coming out with theirs in 2022. So why did I feel the need to write my novel with the same setting?

 

First of all, I’m a Francophile. I love all things French. It started when I took French in high school. Everyone else was learning Spanish, but I wasn’t into being part of the crowd. There were only a few of us in the class, and it was great fun. We had a wonderful teacher. Being able to pull out some of that French, refine it a bit, and use it in the book was a blast. But I also love French food (who doesn’t?) and everything else.

 

Secondly, I hadn’t written about France before. When I wrote this proposal at least five or six years ago, I didn’t know France would be so hot. God did, and the book came about in His perfect timing. I’d explored the Netherlands, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Czechoslovakia, and the Philippines. Such a shame that I was leaving out France, so I set about to write a novel located in that country.

 

Thirdly, there was so much good material to pull from. The French resistance, while small, did good work and sacrificed a great deal to get Jews out of the country and into Switzerland or Spain. The books that Kristy, Melanie, Sarah, and I write are all so different. Only the setting is the same. And when I found out that the famous mime Marcel Marceau was part of the resistance, I couldn’t help but giving him a cameo. Be on the lookout!

 

Along the way, I discovered some truly heartrending incidents that took place in France. They also compelled me to write this book. I long for the world to remember what happened so that we will never forget. And so that the atrocities committed there will never be repeated.

 

Fourthly, this was originally the third book in a series. Don’t worry – it’s a stand-alone. Maybe someday I’ll get to publish the other two. The women in the series are all American journalists in Europe. One is a reporter, the other is a broadcaster, and so I decided to make Nellie, the heroine in A Picture of Hope, a photojournalist. And where better to take pictures than on Omaha Beach soon after D-day. How she gets there is based on a very interesting true story, so be sure to read to the end for that one.

 

There are so many stories about WWII to be told and so many countries that participated in the conflict in one way or the other. The ground is so rich that we aren’t plowing the same parcel. You’ll find all of these books to be very different from each other, each with its own message, its own voice, and its own plot.

 

The focus in my book is on children with Down syndrome. I have a background in special education, and my husband and I adopted a child from the Philippines with an intellectual disability, so I’ve always had a heart for people with special needs. My daughter brings us so much joy that I wanted to share a glimpse into what these remarkable people are truly capable of.

 

So that is why I wrote a WWII novel set in France. Make yourself a cup of café au lait, butter up a croissant, and enjoy A Picture of Hope!

Blog Stops

A Baker's Perspective, October 28

Life of Literature, October 28

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 28

Genesis 5020, October 28

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, October 29

The Book Chic Blog, October 29

Blogging With Carol, October 29

Texas Book-aholic, October 30

Sodbuster Living, October 30

Spoken from the Heart, October 30

Elly Gilbert, October 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 31

Inklings and notions, October 31

Labor Not in Vain, October 31

CarpeDiem, October 31

Splashes of Joy, November 1

Reviewingbooksplusmore, November 1

Life, love, writing, November 1

For Him and My Family, November 1

deb's Book Review, November 2

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, November 2

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, November 2

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 3

Betti Mace, November 3

Worthy2Read, November 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, November 3

Daysong Reflections, November 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 4

Vicky Sluiter, November 4

Southern Gal Loves to Read, November 4

Older & Smarter?, November 5

By the Book, November 5

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 5

Connie's History Classroom, November 6

For the Love of Literature, November 6

Bigreadersite, November 6

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 6

Rebecca Tews, November 7

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 7

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, November 7

She Lives To Read, November 8

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, November 8

Where Faith and Books Meet, November 8

Pause for Tales, November 9

Christian Bookaholic, November 9

Through the Fire Blogs, November 9

To Everything There Is A Season , November 9

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, November 10

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, November 10

Mary Hake, November 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Liz is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and copy of A Picture of Hope!!

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/12b83/a-picture-of-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Daily Bible Project from Ink and Willow

Review:

If you are like me and have often resolved to read your Bible in a year to varying levels of success, this journal might be right up your alley. Designed to take you through the Bible in a year with readings from both the New and Old Testaments, this journal keeps you on track with space for  three years worth of reading and record your note and insights. 

It is easy to use with 5 1/2 lines per day, perfect for concise and compact notes. I like that with this journal you can choose the translation of the Bible that you like best for your readings, and even switch it up year to year or even day to day. I personally don't like to write in my Bible, so this journal is the perfect place for me to jot down takeaways from the text in a neat and organized way that makes it easy to look back on, without actually writing in your Bible. But even if you do like to write notes in your Bible, this journal is an excellent companion and adds additional space for those notes. In addition to room for journaling it also includes a few extras, with pages with an index of verses for when you need, joy, peace, comfort, overviews, and fun facts about different Bible translations. 

I'm excited to start this journal fresh on January 1st, but it would also make an excellent gift to give just in time for Christmas. I was impressed with the clever design. Definitely worth checking out for yourself or as a gift for a friend or family member this Christmas!

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

Love on the Range by Mary Connealy // Review

Review:

Picking up right where the previous book left off, Wyatt and his brothers must band together to make a stand to protect their ranch. 

The final book in Brothers in Arms Trilogy, this book ties it all together in a satisfying adventure that will keep you on the tip of your toes. I loved getting to know Molly and Wyatt better over the course of the book. 

Molly is tired of being over looked, she is capable and smart, but feels like her skills are underutilized. She volunteers to go undercover for the Pinkertons to gather the missing evidence to bring down a criminal. I liked how Wyatt's protective side came out when she went undercover, and how he leans on his brothers for advice. 

I loved how this book brings together all of the brothers in force, filled with familiar faces and brand new twists along the way. I liked the fast paced action, fantastic characters, faith and romance along the way. An excellent conclusion!

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

If it Rains by Jennifer L. Wright // Review

My Review; 

A powerful novel of two sisters in the epicenter of the Oklahoma Dust Bowl. 

A poignant coming of age story of faith, as two sisters navigate new worlds on their own struggling to believe in a good, omnipotent God in the unforgiving landscape of the Great Depression. 

Kathryn is straightforward and adventurous, she doesn't hold back her feelings. I admired her courage and bravery to keep fighting despite the obstacles that came her way, she is headstrong and doesn't like asking for help. I liked how she persevered, but never shied away from speaking up for herself. 

Melissa is a young wife, married to the son of the richest man in town, but marriage quickly loses its rosy glow in the face of abuse. Melissa struggles to see the light in what feels like a hopeless situation. I liked how the sisters are so different, Melissa isn't brave in the ways that Kathryn is, but she finds her own voice and clings to her faith throughout.

Overall, this debut blew me away. It was absolutely stunning. The alternating first person narratives, pulled me into each of the sisters' lives, as they fight their battles for survival and faith, learning to trust in the darkest times. A coming of age novel, set against the unforgiving backdrop of the Dust Bowl, with a powerful message of faith that made me see The Wizard of Oz in a brand new way. Truly a must read!

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

Silver Lining by Pam Hillman // Review

Review:

Promised a thriving boomtown, Maggie O'Toole arrives in Silver Lining to find a ghost town. Three families decide to stay, can they make it through the coming winter?

A charming novella about a small town and their will to survive their new life on the prairie. Maggie is a problem solving heroine, who takes seriously the responsibility to help her family make their home in Silver Lining. I liked her friendship with Ingrid, and how she get's to know Rafe, while wondering if he will stick around. 

Overall, and enjoyable read with a strong heroine, good premise, likable cowboy hero, and survival on the prairie. 

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

A View Most Glorious by Regina Scott // Review

Review:

Coraline Baxter is determined to be more than her socialite upbringing, working as a loan officer she has gained respect in her field. In order to avoid a marriage to a man of her mother's choosing, she takes up the challenge of climbing Mount Rainier to prove that women can do hard things. 

An engaging and well written read, I loved how supportive Coraline's step-father Mr. Winston is of Coraline's aspirations throughout. He drops everything to go on the climbing expedition with her so she will have a proper chaperone, and he doesn't pressure her to follow her mother's wishes. He was probably my favorite character in this book!

Nathan left high society behind for the sanctuary of the mountains, where he lives off the land and works as a guide. I admired his strong faith and how he talks openly with Coraline about his beliefs, as well as his friendship with Waldo, which adds some great humor. 

Overall, this is a fast paced read with excellent plot and characters that you can cheer for all the way through. Strong faith, adventure, great interaction, and an admirable heroine. Definitely recommend this third installment in the The American Wonders Collection. 

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

Saving Ebenezer by S. Daniel Smith // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Saving Ebenezer

Author: S. Daniel Smith

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Release date: October 12, 2021

Much had changed in seven years. Scrooge had given all to rid himself of the guilt and shame of his miserly ways. Nearly saved Tiny Tim, too, who was only slightly bigger at his death than Christmas Eve seven years prior. Scrooge had the best doctors working on the boy’s condition, all of them happy to have Scrooge pay for this treatment or that, but never quite figuring out exactly what was wrong. Still, Tim had started the pathway of a bright future.

Until pneumonia struck. In a fortnight, Tim had gone from spry and hopeful to weak and discouraged. And then dead.

As Ebenezer Scrooge watched the simple casket lowered into the near-frozen muck on December 20^th, 1850, there could be no mistaking the fact that a piece of him was being buried as well.

And that was why Ebenezer Scrooge was angry.

The old Scrooge was back. Joy had given away to sorrow in the meanest of ways, for it sprung upon the old man with such ferocity that he had no defense. Powerless, and angry, that was Ebenezer Scrooge, all right. Joy had given way quickly to pain and sorrow, the likes of which Ebenezer Scrooge had never experienced before.

Ebenezer Scrooge, heartbroken and frustrated, begins to ask questions about faith. Much like the original story, he is given a guide to help him find the answers. As he struggles to understand death, sorrow, and poverty in terms of faith, he finds one answer to all his questions: Jesus Christ. The book ends with Ebenezer finding faith, health, and love.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Seven years ago Scrooge had three nightly visitors that showed him the past, present and future, and since Scrooge has worked hard to make up for his past wrongs. But despite the best doctors that money can buy and Scrooge's change of heart, Tiny Tim is dead. Could it be possible that Scrooge missed something those seven years ago?

A well done novella realistically revisits the world of Dicken's most well loved Christmas story. I liked how the author authentically imitates Dicken's style, but also makes the language more accessible for modern readers. I liked that this story brings back many of the familiar faces from the original classic.

Overall, a well written sequel to a beloved classic, it does an excellent job of staying true to the original while also daring to dive deeper and ask questions of faith and mortality. Inspiring and full of hope, this was the perfect twist on a classic. Definitely recommend, this Christmas Carol revisited!

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

About the Author

Dan Smith is a Christian, a husband, a father, a career US Navy sailor, and freelance writer living in Virginia Beach, VA with his wife and three children. His publishing history goes back 21 years, when he was first published in the magazine Pentecostal Messenger.

Dan specializes in writing about life in the military, especially as it affects Christians in service. He has also tackled the issue of cystic fibrosis, the autism spectrum, and a host of other topics.

 

More from Dan

“I have always loved the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. From the original novella to The Muppets, I’ve been fascinated by the story. Only one thing was truly missing, and that was the real hope Christians find in Jesus Christ. In that way, Saving Ebenezer: The Continuing Saga of a man named Scrooge is my offering to my Lord. I did my best to retain the style and language of the original, as well as to stay true to the original story and characters, while offering a glimpse at the hope we have in Jesus.

The biggest reason I wrote the book is to show the need for Christ. I do my best to keep from being preachy, and I believe you’ll find the book entertaining with a point. I can’t wait to hear what you think!”

Blog Stops

The Write Escape, October 13

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 14

Genesis 5020, October 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 15

deb’s Book Review, October 16

Texas Book-aholic, October 17

Labor Not in Vain, October 17

Inklings and notions, October 18

For Him and My Family, October 19

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 20

Cats in the Cradle Blog, October 20

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 21

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 22

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 23

Mary Hake, October 23

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 24

Connie’s History Classroom, October 25

Denise L. Barela, Author, October 25

Betti Mace, October 26

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, S. Daniel is the grand prize package of a $25 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/122da/saving-ebenezer-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Heart of a Cowboy by Jody Hedlund // Review

My Review: Two hearts that swore never to marry, find their convictions challenged on the trail to Colorado. 

Flynn has been mother and father to his younger siblings, shouldering the responsibilities of a family, and more than his share of the blame. Linnea, recently widowed, is fighting to prove her worth as a botanist in her own right, apart from her late husband and grandfather's shadows. 

An engaging romance, set against the backdrop of the treacherous trail to Colorado, fraught with danger and Confederate Irregulars. Linnea is a modern woman for her time, with a passion for plants and sciences. I liked how she takes Flynn's sister Ivy, under her wing, teaching her about being a young woman. Ivy spunky and full of sass, she says things as she sees them sometimes to the embarrassment of others, easily one of my favorite people in the story!

Flynn has spent his life trying to protect his family,  first from the fists of his step-father, then fields of battle, and now delivering a herd of cattle to his brother Wyatt in Colorado. After reading the last book in the series, I wasn't sure how any of the other McQuaid brothers could measure up to Wyatt, but Flynn easily won me over with his strong protective instincts, and big heart. 

Overall, a fantastic, sizzling with chemistry, and roaring with action, addition to the series, I loved seeing both new and familiar faces in the pages of this book. Especially since Judd was my favorite from the previous book. A engrossing read, with characters that you can cheer for throughout, with an inspiring message of faith and overcoming the past. Definitely recommend for fans of western romance! I can't wait to read Brody's story!

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

An Amish Barn Raising by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, and Kathleen Fuller // Review

My Review:

Building a Dream by Amy Clipston

Longtime friends Kathryn and Anthony find themselves longing for more but Kathryn's strict father doesn't approve of Anthony's family or their profession. Does their forbidden love have a chance?

A heartwarming romance born of friendship, engaging and with characters that you want to cheer for. I also liked that they both have other close friends that they can confide in and find encouragement. Kathryn is a sweet young woman, and I like that she respectfully challenges her father's misguided convictions. 

To Raise a Home by Kelly Irvin

Delilah Mast returns to Kootenai to to find her former flame seriously courting another, though she tries, Evan is impossible to forget.

A second chance romance, that was captivating from the start as I wondered how and if they would ever find their way to one another. Delilah and Evan are both admirable characters who are thoughtful and don't like to rock the boat. I especially admired Delilah's maturity throughout, and her respectfulness of Evan's relationship. Sam is an intriguing character, straightforward with a good heart. A wholly enjoyable read. 

Love's Solid Foundation by Kathleen Fuller

Devon Bontrager returns home to make amends, he is surprised to find himself working along Nettie Yoder, who has made self-serving choices in the past that hurt others. He is even more surprised to find himself drawn to her. 

I really liked Nettie, even though she wasn't always a very likable person, I admired how she acknowledged her hurtful behavior and made the effort to make amends. Elmer is a gruff, but sweet old man, who ended up being one of my favorite characters. A sweet romance of those at odds attracting. 

Overall, a enjoyable collection of novellas each set in different communities about couples who come together through barn raisings. Sweet swift reads for when you don't want something too heavy.

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

A Midnight Dance by Joanna Davidson Politano // Review

Lucie's Review:

Ella Blythe has lived a life shrouded in secret, she holds tightly to her precarious position in a shrinking ballet company. Even though she knows the fate of most theater romances, she can't help but hope to catch the eye of principle dancer Phillipe, while avoiding the advances of the flirtatious Jack. 

A intriguing read, filled with mystery and haunting suspense as secrets from the past are revealed. Ella loves to dance but struggles to find her stride, uncertainty and the ghost of another promising dancer haunt her every step. I liked her story arc, and how she learns to deal with anxiety and the unknowns of life on the stage. 

A well written read, but a slower start, due to it taking awhile for the pieces to start coming together, and eventually giving some answers along with the growing number of questions. Mysterious and evocative, it is a page turning read full of secrets and worthwhile reveals. Definitely picks up speed as it goes along. I really enjoyed seeing Ella grow in her faith, and become more sure of herself. A twisting, and enjoyable read!

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

A Life Redeemed by Olivia Rae // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

Book:  A Life Redeemed

Author: Olivia Rae

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: June 16, 2021

Everyone has a secret, who can a queen trust?

Upon Queen Elizabeth’s order, Audrey Hayes travels to the borderlands of Scotland to learn where the fierce Laird Armstrong’s loyalties lie. Is he aligned with his mother’s English roots in support of the queen, or does he hold with the beliefs of his father, who wishes to see Mary of Scots on the English throne? The fate of Audrey’s family rests on her success in finding the answer.

After losing his lands in a wager and being betrayed by his kin, Gavin Armstrong entered a loveless marriage to obtain the funds to buy back his family home, Warring Tower. Now a widower, struggling against countless border wars, he is on the verge of losing his home and lands again. With few resources, he reluctantly makes another risky wager, one he cannot hope to win without trusting the secretive Audrey Hayes, a woman he suspects is an English spy.

As the two work together to save Warring Tower, their attraction to one another grows. But when Audrey finally gains the information she seeks for Queen Elizabeth, she realizes that the only way she can save her family is to betray the man she loves.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Audrey Hayes undertakes a mission  on the borderlands of Scotland for the Queen in in order to ensure the security of her family. Can she save her family if it means betraying the man she has come to love? 

An engaging historical read, that reimagines the early years of Queen Elizabeth I's reign, fraught with conspiracy and suspicion. Audrey is bold for her time, outspoken, she doesn't shy away from stating what is on her heart and mind. She challenges Gavin, to look beyond the way things have always been, and to take time for his sons.

I liked that there is a lot going on, between the secrets that Warring holds as well as feuding with the neighboring landowners, Gavin is a brooding and gruff man, with a pure heart. In fact, there were multiple times throughout reading this book when the story reminded me of Beauty and the Beast.

Thomas is a dear child, so eager to please and open hearted. I loved how Audrey takes time to get to know Thomas, letting him play and use his imagination. 

Overall, an engaging historical romance, with an intriguing plot. A quick and enjoyable read, that delves into the Tudor lore away from the courts. Great for fans of historical romance!

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

About the Author

Olivia Rae is an award-winning author of historical and contemporary inspirational romance. She spent her school days dreaming of knights, princesses and far away kingdoms; it made those long, boring days in the classroom go by much faster. Nobody was more shocked than her when she decided to become a teacher. Besides getting her Master’s degree, marrying her own prince, and raising a couple of kids, Olivia decided to breathe a little more life into her childhood stories by adding in what she’s learned as an adult living in a small town on the edge of a big city. When not writing, she loves to travel, dragging her family to old castles and forts all across the world.  

Olivia is the winner of the Angel Award, Book Buyers Best Award, Golden Quill Award, New England Readers’ Choice Award, Southern Magic Contest, and the American Fiction Award. She is an Illumination Award Gold and Bronze medalist. She has also been a finalist in many other contests such as the National Readers’ Choice Awards, and the National Romance Fiction Awards. She is currently hard at work on her next novel.

 

More from Olivia

My novel, A Life Redeemed takes place in 16^th Century England and Scotland. A very popular dish at the time was the meat pie. Back then making such a dish took a lot of time. My Grandmother made a similar dish with modern day ingredients that you can whip together in no time. Cheesy meat pie is a real family pleaser and a delicious bit of history.

 

 

Medieval Cheesy Meat Pie

 

1 pound ground beef

½ cup chopped onion

1 – 8 oz. can of tomato sauce

¼ cup parsley

1 – 3oz. can chopped mushrooms (drained)

1/8 teaspoon pepper

¼ teaspoon dried oregano

2 packages (8 rolls) crescent rolls

3 eggs

Shredded cheese (mixed cheddar and mozzarella)

 

In skillet, brown beef, onion (drain). Stir in tomato sauce, parsley, mushrooms, pepper and oregano, then set aside. Unroll one package of crescent rolls, forming 12×6 inch rectangle. Seal edges and perforations together.  Roll to fit in 9-inch pie plate, trim. Separate one egg and set aside the yoke. Beat egg white with remaining two eggs. Spread over half the dough. Spoon meat into shell, arranging cheese on top. Pour remaining egg mixture over cheese. Roll out second package of crescent rolls, sealing on top of pie. Beat remaining egg yoke and a tablespoon of water, brush on top of dough. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. If pastry gets too brown, cover with foil. Let stand for 10 minutes.

Blog Stops

Pause for Tales, October 9

Labor Not in Vain, October 9

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 11

Genesis 5020, October 11

Bigreadersite, October 12

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 13

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, October 14

Texas Book-aholic, October 15

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 16

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 16

deb's Book Review, October 17

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, October 17

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 18

Connie's History Classroom, October 19

Mary Hake, October 19

Inklings and notions, October 20

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, October 21

For Him and My Family, October 22

Betti Mace, October 22

Giveaway

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

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/11fe0/a-life-redeemed-celebration-tour-giveaway