Roots of Wood and Stone by Amanda Wen // Review

My Review:

Sloane Kelley always wondered about her past, abandoned and adopted as a baby, she has devoted herself to preserving other people's stories. But when a man comes to the museum with a suitcase of antiques, Sloane finds herself drawn to the story of Annabelle Collins, a woman 150 years ago, who worked to carved out a life for herself and her family in Sedgwick County.

A beautiful split time novel, with two engaging storylines that drew me into the struggles Sloane, Garrett, and Annabelle. I loved the powerful message of hope and providence by God's grace. I think that my favorite character was Garrett, I related to being a planner and not liking to take risks. I liked the relationship between him and his sister, Lauren, and how they are both devoted to their grandmother. 

I loved the "snapshots" of Annabelle's life, following her through the decades and through life's seasons. Though, as an adoptee myself I struggled the most to relate to Sloane, though I completely understand and respect that many people do feel similarly. 

 This is a powerful read, compelling, quietly building and laying a strong foundation, with great payoff when it all comes together. I'm excited to read more in this series!

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

Pureflix Easter // Risen Review // Win a Pureflix Subscription

In the weeks and months leading up to Christmas, there are a plethora of movies and films available to help us celebrate that special season. Have you ever wondered, why don't we do that for Easter? Well now you can, when you access Pureflix's curated library of TV shows, and films, from serious documentaries, feature films, and shows for kids too!

Start your free trial today: https://hubs.li/Q016cvND0

As part of this celebration, I watched Risen.

My Review:

Risen follows Roman Tribune Clavius as he investigate the truth behind the claims that He has risen from the dead.

I loved how this movie shows the events of the Bible through the eyes of a man bent on destroying the dangerous narrative that could upend an empire. Clavius is the perfect Roman soldier, determined to discover the truth behind the miraculous claims.

A well written script, brought to life with an excellent cast. I loved how this story imagines what it might have been like to be an eye witness to the events following Jesus' death, seeing history unfold and everything pivot around one event, but through the eyes of a skeptic. Clavius finds everything that he thought the knew challenged by what he is witnessing, and through encounters with the disciples.

Truly a must-see film, so well done with a unique angle on the powerful story that changed everything. Engaging, action-packed, with great pacing throughout, a great film to watch as a family with older children. A powerful film, with an amazing message of hope!

PG-13 Rating for violent depictions of war, execution, fighting and the aftermath of war.

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

#PureFlixEasterMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

 

Giveaway

• 3-month Pure Flix subscription
  * Winners are limited to US residents only*

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Laurel's Dream by Pepper Basham // Blog Blitz and Giveaway

 

Welcome to the audiobook Blog Blitz for Laurel's Dream by Pepper Basham, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Laurel's Dream 

Series: My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge #1 

Author: Pepper Basham 

Narrator: Catherine Gaffney 

Publisher: Woven Words 

Release Date: January 13, 2022 

Genre: Christian, Historical Romance 

Dreams are precious commodities in the Blue Ridge Mountains of 1918, and Laurel McAdams is attempting to make hers come true. But sometimes, life in the mountains has a way of squandering dreams. As she attempts to avoid matrimony, she is secretly saving for her future with the sole purpose of becoming a teacher and bringing consistent education back to her people. 

Having failed his British father again by being unable to fight in the Great War, Jonathan Taylor joins his uncle's missionary endeavors as a teacher in a two-room schoolhouse in Appalachia, but nothing prepares him for the rugged wilderness, narrow-minded natives, and...Laurel McAdams. Her joy and friendship prove a guiding light in the middle of his new responsibilities and tempt his timid heart toward a future he never expected. 

But when Jonathan's teaching methods lead to dangerous outcomes and Laurel's dream is threatened by an unexpected choice, will these two learn how to find hope and maybe even love beyond the heartache? Can Jonathan and Laurel create a new dream from the shattered pieces of the old ones or will bitterness and brokenness keep them apart? 

Laurel's Dream was originally published by Barbour Publishing as My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge: Laurel's Dream in January 2019

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

COMING SOON

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance “peppered” with grace and humor. Writing both historical and contemporary novels, she loves to incorporate her native Appalachian culture and/or her unabashed adoration of the UK into her stories. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the wife of a fantastic pastor, mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus. Her newest novel is The Mistletoe Countess, a historical romantic romp with a dash of mystery and a bunch of humor too. You can learn more about Pepper and her books on her website at www.pepperdbasham.com.

CONNECT WITH PEPPER: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a Laurel's Dream audiobook download code and print copy plus a Mountain Air candle!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 29, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 5, 2022. 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.

Sam and the Sticky Situation: A Book About Whining by Ginger Hubbard and Al Roland, illustrated by Veronika Kotyk // Review

Review:

A colorfully illustrated book that explores the problem with whining.

Sam wants his way and decides that the way to get it is to whine until his mother gives in, but he and his mother both learn the hard way that whining is wrong. 

I liked how the tough topic was presented in an easy to understand way, supplemented by resources and ideas in the back. Written in rhythmic rhyme, the story follows Sam as he follow his mother's example and finds himself in a "sticky situation."  I really liked how it shows that whining is something we all can struggle with and tracks the habit to its roots.

Overall, another wonderful book from Ginger Hubbard and Al Roland, accompanied by fun, whimsical illustrations. A good book to share with the young ones in your life!

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

The Spark of Love by Amanda Cabot // Review

Lucie's Review:

 Heiress Alexandra Tarkington flees New York to Mesquite Springs, Texas, to escape a rejected suitor and reunite with her father. 

An entertaining read with instantly likable characters, and a engaging plot. I loved returning to Mesquite Springs with all of the familiar faces. I liked that Alexandra is a sensible young woman, who is capable of making her own decisions, though she is constantly underestimated by others. She handles many situations with grace, and I like that she keep trying to get to know her father better despite his initial reaction. 

Gabe is a honorable man, who unknowingly walks into the situation and into Alexandra's life. I loved the interaction between him and Alexandra, and how he is always trying to do the right thing. 

Overall, this was a wonderful read with a great plot and excellent characters. I especially liked how Sam and Laura befriend Alexandra and Gabe, and seeing more of their story.

A highly enjoyable western romance, with excellent characters, conflict, and a engaging plot!

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

Chloe and the Closet of Secrets: A Book About Lying by Ginger Hubbard and Al Roland, illustrated by Veronika Kotyk // Review

Review:

A whimsical picture book about the very real problem of lying. 

Written and formatted well for the target age group of 4-7 years old, I liked the colorful illustrations and the imaginative way that the story was told. The rhyming cadence was fun and sing-song, in a way that reminded me a little of Twas the Night Before Christmas. 

Overall, this was a enjoyable book, written in a way that is fun, but also shows the gravity of lies, and points to only source of freedom from lies and lying. I think that this book would be a great way to start a conversation, and it also has some ideas and resources included in the back. An excellent book to share with the young person in your life. 

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

Until Leaves Fall in Paris by Sarah Sundin // Review

Review:

A gripping story of sacrifice, faith and love in the face of the German occupation of Paris.

Sarah Sundin doesn't disappoint in this compelling story that follows two Americans living in Paris during the early days of the German occupation of France. Lucie Girard is a ballerina who buys a bookshop to help her friends escape Paris, fighting to keep her doors open. Meanwhile Paul Aubrey is seen as a collaborator for profiting off of the war with his luxury cars, but what he shows the outside isn't the whole truth. 

An engaging story that brings to life the contrast of what Paris was and what it lost when the Germans came. It was fascinating to read a story of the perspectives of Americans living in Paris, and how that put both Paul and Lucie in unique positions. Josephine was so adorable, she is a darling and perceptive child and I liked how Lucie draws her out with the puppets. Lucie is so graceful and has a natural way with children. I admired Paul for standing strong in the face of being openly spurned, he was a very brave and principled man. 

Overall, a well written story of courage, faith, and love in the face of an unknown future. I loved how this book showed a different side of the occupation and resistance, and showed the ways that everyday people fought back in big and small ways. 

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

Counterfeit Love by Crystal Caudill // I Read with Audra Tour, Review and Giveaway

Can this undercover agent save the woman he loves--or is her heart as counterfeit as the money he's been sent to track down?

After all that Grandfather has sacrificed to raise her, Theresa Plane owes it to him to save the family name--and that means clearing their debt with creditors before she marries Edward Greystone. But when one of the creditors' threats leads her to stumble across a midnight meeting, she discovers that the money he owes isn't all Grandfather was hiding. And the secrets he kept have now trapped Theresa in a life-threatening fight for her home--and the truth.

After months of undercover work, Secret Service operative Broderick Cosgrove is finally about to uncover the identity of the leader of a notorious counterfeiting ring. That moment of triumph turns to horror, however, when he finds undeniable proof that his former fiance is connected. Can he really believe the woman he loved is a willing participant? Protecting Theresa and proving her innocence may destroy his career--but that's better than failing her twice in one lifetime.

They must form a partnership, tentative though it is. But there's no question they're both still keeping secrets--and that lack of trust, along with the dangerous criminals out for their blood, threatens their hearts, their faith, and their very survival.

To read an excerpt of Counterfeit Love click here.

Review:

A promising debut filled with intrigue, set against the backdrop of the great floods of Cincinnati. 

 

A historical read filled with mysteries, and unanswered questions that kept me reading to the end. The story is fairly backstory heavy, and I wished that Teresa and Brody had been able to have more time in the present together. I liked how the plot kept me guessing as the secrets were revealed, as well as the strong elements of faith woven into the storyline. 

Teresa wants to help her family get out of debt, but she doesn't know what she is getting into with the print shop, I admired her determination and I liked that she and Brody got a second chance at love. I could tell that the story was well researched, and I enjoyed the rich history woven into the backdrop. The story builds as it goes, and it all came together for a satisfying ending. 

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

Crystal Caudill is the author of "dangerously good historical romance," with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW.

She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Caudill can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio.

Learn more at crystalcaudill.com. You can also find her on Facebook and Instagram.

“Full of intrigue, Counterfeit Love is sure to delight fans of historical romantic suspense. As Caudill immerses readers in the world of counterfeiting rings and the early days of the Secret Service, she weaves a tale that is simultaneously well-researched and action-packed with delightfully flawed characters who will leave readers rooting for their redemption.” 

~ Amanda Cox, author of The Edge of Belonging and The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery

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Whatever Happens Next by Jaycee Weaver // Just Read Blog Blitz and Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog Blitz for Whatever Happens Next by Jaycee Weaver, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Whatever Happens Next 

Series: Everyday Love #4 

Author: Jaycee Weaver 

Publisher: Sandia Sky Press 

Release Date: May 12, 2020 

Genre: Inspirational Contemporary Romance 

Growing up in nowhere Oklahoma gave US Air Force vehicle maintainer TSgt Dyson what his momma calls itchy feet. His wanderlust has kept him from romantic entanglements for years, until the day an over-dramatic, strawberry-scented chatterbox slams into him and turns his world upside down. 

Jenna Davis was a quintessential good girl, deeply rooted in her family and faith until one mistake three years ago changed everything. Unable to admit her failure, she goes through the motions watching everyone else live their dreams. But it’s hard to find her purpose when opening up to anyone—even God—feels impossible. Then she meets Dyson, who personifies the strong, silent type. 

Dyson gets her to open up and begin dreaming again, rebuilding the trust she’s lost in men and especially in herself. But Dyson has something important to tell Jenna, and he knows it’ll be the end of everything they’ve built. After all, how can he ask her to leave everything and everyone behind when he can never stay? 

The Everyday Love Series is a contemporary romance series set in Albuquerque, featuring ordinary people in lifelike stories that inspire, uplift, and share hope. Stories in which a very real God shows Himself in everyday ways to carry His people through any circumstance.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub

ebook sale price $0.99 for a limited time

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lover of Jesus, family, books, coffee, music, and crafting (in that order), Jaycee Weaver is perpetually pursuing at least one of her passions. She writes contemporary Christian romance stories featuring realistic characters in everyday situations where God is at work in big ways. She appreciates books where the characters face shortcomings, temptations, and adversity but always get their happy ending, so that’s what she writes.

CONNECT WITH JAYCEE: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback of Whatever Happens Next and a handmade mini wreath plus a $15 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 22, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 29, 2022. 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.

Lumberjacks and Ladies : Four Stories of Romance Among the Pines by Jennifer Lamont Leo, Naomi Musch, Candice Sue Patterson, and Pegg Thomas // Review

Review:

A quartet of stories about lumberjacks finding love and standing up for their ladies. 

I often enjoy picking up these quick reads in between heavier subject matters, with sweet stories that can be read in one sitting. 

Winnie is determined to take care of her family, and she doesn't know what to think of the the flirtatious lumberjack who always seems to be popping up just in time. I admired her work ethic and how she fought for her family. 

In the Northwoods of Michigan Elizabeth hesitantly returns to the lumber camp where she was raised to cook alongside her mother, while searching for her next teaching position. This was a cute story, and I liked that Wesley was kind and put himself out there to win Elizabeth. 

Widowed Maggie is looking for a husband to help save her farm. But when Jack shows up, will she be able to let her heart love again? An adorable mail-order-husband romance. Jack is such a man of honorable character and faith, I liked him right away for giving Maggie time and space. Jack is probably one of my favorite heroes of this collection. 

Michael is a privileged son of a banker, used to living life on his own terms until his father decides to challenge him to do better by sending him to Idaho to work with his uncle and aunt. Can he help a widow save her struggling lumber camp? I really enjoyed this story, and I liked how Michael grew over the course of the book, finding a passion for helping others. 

Overall, an enjoyable collection of novellas that show that good things can come it in smaller portions. 

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

The Sword in His Hand by J.J. Fischer // Review

Review:

Crash landing in a frightening new world El finds herself transported to another place where war is raging between two fractions drawn to the power of the Outside world that El represents. 

An imaginative Speculative read that keeps you guessing along with the characters as they are thrust into the epicenter of a Civil War. Well written with vivid imagery and excellent world building. The tension builds throughout, setting up well for the 2nd half of the duology, and leaving me wanting more. El is strong young woman with strong convictions. She is stubborn, but compassionate, challenging Torsten's philosophies. 

Torsten is a man hardened by 9 years of slave labor, the heir to a rebellion and a natural leader. He is intrigued by El and the secrets of her world. 

Overall, an engaging read, great for fans of fantasy or sci-fi, with threads of faith throughout. I'm looking forward to finding out what will happen next, as well as watching the characters continue to grow over the course of the series. 

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

The Widows of Champagne by Renee Ryan // Review

My Review:

Three generations of women fight to protect their home during the Nazi occupation of France. 

A compelling read that tells of the harsh realities faced by the French during the occupation through the perspectives of Gabrielle, Helene, and Josephine.

 A gripping read, Gabrielle takes on the responsibilities of her family head on as she fights for her family's future, she is courageous and daring, not shying away from the hard things. I admired her faith and bravery. Josephine is the family matriarch, she knows that her memories are failing her, but she is determined through faith and shear will power to fight the Nazis every step of the way. I was most sympathetic towards Helene, though very different from her daughter and mother-in-law, she faced harsh truths and fought back in her own way. I think that the author did a great job of portraying Helene and everything she went through, as well as Paulette. 

Overall, an inspiring read full of faith that brings to life the sacrifices that brave women and men made to fight for their country. A book well worth the read, with courageous heroines, strong faith, and a compelling story. 

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

Rocky Mountain Standoff by Laura Scott // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Federal Judge Sidney Logan finds herself on the run with her foster daughter, under the protection of Deputy Marshall Tanner Wilcox, to escape someone who wants to intimidate her ruling on an upcoming trial. 

A fast paced read that gripped me from the beginning. I loved the Wyoming setting, as well as the relationship building between the main characters. I so happy to recognize Tanner and Colt from a previous book, though you can definitely read this one as a stand alone. Tanner is is a good man, with strong convictions who lives his faith. I liked how he is open about his beliefs with Sidney, and puts her doubts to rest. 

Overall a fantastic read, engaging and tension filled from the start with likable characters. I loved how great Tanner was with Lilly, and his friendship with Colt. Definitely will keep reading this amazing series, can't wait to read Colt's story!

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

Georgana's Secret by Arlem Hawks // Review

My Review:

Gripping read, with instantly likable characters, terrific chemistry, and engaging plotline that had me entranced until the very end. 

Lt. Dominic Peyton has forgone a promotion in order to keep a steady paycheck coming to support his mother. He signs on with the HMS Deborah under Capt. Woodhull, befriending a timid cabin boy, taking "George" under his wing.

Georgana "George" Woodhull has spent the last three years at sea, longing for more, but afraid to go back to what she left behind. But Peyton's friendship puts everything at risk. 

A compelling read with characters that you want to cheer for from the start. Peyton is a honorable man, who does his mother proud. He doesn't responsibilities lightly. I loved him for how he sees someone overlooked by many, and takes the time to offer kindness. 

The author realistically brings to life onboard a ship, with details that add to the flow of the story, as well as helping me understand the lives of the other characters. I liked how Capt. Woodhull is always trying to protect Georgana, even if his methods aren't conventional, he truly wants what is best for her. I loved how Georgana came to life under Lt Peyton's friendship, and how he helps her grow in confidence. And the chemistry was just perfect! 

Overall, a completely enjoyable read from beginning to end, with fantastic characters, excellent pacing, plotting, well researched, and phenomenal chemistry that brought a smile to my face. A wholly satisfying read, that had me rooting for it all to work out in the end. Definitely recommend this amazing historical romance set on the high seas during the Napoleonic Wars!

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

Where the Last Rose Blooms by Ashley Clark // Review

My Review:

This stunning multi-generational trilogy that wends its way through the past and present day Charleston, binding families and hearts together, comes full circle with this satisfying latest installment. 

A captivating series, unique in that you can read them out of order or even as stand alones, but each book connects like a precision cut puzzle piece to the others, enriching the experience and lending deeper meaning to the stories. I loved how this book effortlessly shifted between various viewpoints and time periods. In the present day flower shop owner Alice searches for answers about her mother who went missing during hurricane Katrina, while in 1861 Clara takes a stand against her family's wishes, and works to reunite her friend Rose with her daughter. 

A beautifully written book that I wanted to savor and soak in. The characters are well developed, and I liked how faith was naturally woven into the fabric of the story. It was wonderful to finally learn Rose's story. One of my favorite parts of the book was Alice and Sullivan's first meeting. 

A memorable read with compelling characters, and a heartfelt story of courageous women, faith and love, you will not regret picking up any one of this remarkable trilogy. One of my favorites!

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

A Stranger's Game by Colleen Coble // Review

Lucie's Review:

 Hotel heiress Torie Bergstrom comes to Jekyll Island to look into the suspicious death of her friend that she helped get a job at her father's hotel. Torie suspects foul play, and she is convinced that Lisbeth's death wasn't an accident when the killer begins to play games.

A stand alone read, that reminded me of why I started and kept reading Colleen Coble's suspense books. Full of suspense with well written characters, great interaction, while avoiding getting overly dark. Torie is quick thinking, but naturally more reserved, she doesn't have many that she can trust so the death of Lisabeth hits even harder. 

Torie is befriended by Hailey and her military sea lion training father, Joe during her stay on Jekyll Island. Hailey is a outgoing and inquisitive child who break through Torie's more reserved nature. Joe is a man of man skills with a background in multiple kinds of work, he is outgoing and compassionate. 

Overall, a gripping read with engaging characters and a riveting plot. I loved the unique setting and earning more about Jekyll Island. An excellent example of Ms. Coble at her suspense-writing best. 

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

Oathbound by Victoria McCombs // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, Giveaway

 

About the Book

 

Book: Oathbound

Author: Victoria McCombs

Genre: YA Fantasy

Release date: February 15, 2022

Beware the waters. The dangerous deep brings ruin to all.

Emme has spent her life avoiding anything to do with pirates. But the fates are cruel, and now a hidden sickness leads her to partner with pirates for the one thing that can save her—a cure on an island none are certain exists.

The pirate captain’s secrets are darker than the deep and threaten to kill them all. His obligations are tinged with betrayal, for his oathbind must be fulfilled. To ignore it is to invite peril of unimaginable destruction.

As the adventure unfolds, the sea takes more than she expects and the sea gives more than he wants.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A swashbuckling tale of family, secrets and sacrifice on the high seas. 

Emme never wanted to go to sea until it was her only chance for survival. But now that it is her only chance she must face her heritage and her fears. 

A fast paced adventure, with likable characters, and an engaging plot. I liked how the plot kept moving, with great interaction throughout that helped keep it from feeling episodic. Arn is caught in an impossibly difficult situation and finding the treasure is his only hope of freeing himself, but will it cost him the loyalty of his crew? 

Overall, this was an excellent first installment in a new swashbuckling series, high in adventure, with fantasy elements, in a coming of age tale. It will be exciting to see where this series goes. 

Recommended Audience: Older teens. 

*Mentions of the sea god, no Christian content that I can recall. 

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

About the Author

Victoria McCombs is the author of The Storyteller’s Series from Parliament House Press, and Oathbound. She writes young adult fantasy and adores stories about treacherous pirates and traitorous princes. Her favorite things include peppermint hot chocolate, peanut butter ice cream, game nights with family, and Jesus. She has her mom to thank for allowing so many medieval weapons inside the house as she was growing up, which curated her love for that time period. She is a mom of three little boys and a wife to the handsomest accountant there is. Together they live in Omaha, Nebraska.

 

More from Victoria

Oathbound was my quarantine book. I remember getting the idea and thinking “I don’t know of any other pirate books in the YA fantasy genre.” Of course, after that, I saw them everywhere, and several amazing ones have come out since. But theses broken pirates had grabbed my attention and I couldn’t let go.

One aspect of my book makes it unique, and that comes in our main character. My characters are a reflection of me, but none more so than Emme. We see early on that she is sick, and while the disease is made up for the book, it’s mirrored exactly by the disease that runs in my family called ataxia. This is a disease that impairs every part of life before it ends it too soon. I’ve never opened those emotions so fully to put them on a page, but Emme and I were going through this together. While I’m lucky not to have symptoms yet (and the chance to never have to go through it), this disability is something I understand deeply, and I’m honored to bring it to life on the page to show the strength that can lie within even when our bodies fail us.

I hope you all enjoy Oathbound!

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, February 28

Library Lady's Kid Lit, March 1

Wishful Endings, March 1

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, March 2

Inklings and notions, March 3

For Him and My Family, March 4

By the Book, March 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 5

Nancy E Wood, March 6

Blogging With Carol, March 6

deb's Book Review, March 7

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 8

Labor Not in Vain, March 8

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting, March 9

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 10 (Spotlight)

Inside the Wong Mind, March 10

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 11

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 12

Through the Fire Blogs, March 12

Artistic Nobody, March 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Victoria is giving away the grand prize package of 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/1b061/oathbound-celebration-tour-giveaway

Hours to Kill by Susan Sleeman // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Homeland Security Agent Addison Leigh wakes up in the hospital having lost her memory, she doesn't remember the lead she had on her current case or her ex-husband Mack. 

Still listed as Addison's closest of kin, he gets the call that she is in the hospital. Mack knows that he has let her down in the past, but he vows to do everything he can to protect her and catch the person who has been threatening her life. 

A fast paced read with instantly likable main characters that pull you into the story. Action packed, with great character interaction and an adorable German Shepherd who is a basket of cuddles and intelligence. I liked how the incident brings Mack and Addison together, along with her memory loss that helps them tackle the issues that drove them apart. 

Overall, a fantastic read from beginning to end, suspenseful and full of action. I loved how well the faith elements and relationship building come together in this second chance romance mixed with heart pounding suspense. 

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

Tyson's Run // Movie Review and $20 Amazon Giftcard Giveaway

About the Film:
When fifteen-year-old Tyson attends public school for the first time, his life is changed forever. While helping his father clean up after the football team, Tyson befriends champion marathon runner Aklilu. Never letting his autism hold him back, Tyson becomes determined to run his first marathon in hopes of winning his father's approval. With the help of an unlikely friend and his parents, Tyson learns that with faith in yourself and the courage to take the first step, anything is possible. 

Don’t miss this feel-good story of faith, courage, grit, and unlikely alliances for a  teen on the autism spectrum. You will come away inspired! 

Review:

An inspiring new movie about family and overcoming challenges. 

A heartwarming, feel-good movie about a determined young man and his family, who befriend marathon runner Aklilu, who agrees to help Tyson rain for the upcoming marathon. 

Tyson is a high functioning autistic teenager, brilliant in his studies, he struggles with the social aspect of high school. He is close to mother, but he and his father struggle to communicate. Tyson is determined to make his father proud. I liked how he quickly befriends Shannon and Aklilu, two people who accept him as he is. This was a well made heartwarming underdog story of family, faith and friendship. 

I think that the film did a great job of showing that everyone has value and that even though he had different challenges that not everyone understood, his perseverance was an inspiration to all. A great inspirational film for the whole family. 

Film rated PG for thematic elements and language including offensive slurs. 

#TysonsRunMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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

Tyson’s Run is a movie we can all relate to. Tyson’s longing to be accepted by his father leads him to push himself further than anyone might have thought possible. Ultimately, it is a heart-warming story of overcoming odds, changing perceptions, and  of love winning.

Don’t miss it on March 11th! 

Purchase your tickets today: https://tysonsrun.com/tickets/

Fill out the linked form to enter to win a $20 Gift Card from Amazon: Tyson's Run Giveaway (google.com)

Mint Condition Murder by Ellery Adams and Parker Riggs // Review

Lucie's Review:

Antiques, murder, and a family reunion.

Molly, an authority on antiques, stumbles upon a body where she was supposed to be conducting an interview for her magazine. But many things about her would be interviewee don't ring true, and what does it have to do with her estranged father?

A fast paced cozy mystery set in a small town with wonderful characters. Though 9th in a series I felt like it was easy for me to just jump in without having read any of the previous books. Molly is an intelligent woman, skilled in antiques and piecing together mysteries. I liked that she is surrounded by supportive people like her husband Matt.

Overall, a engaging read with a twisting plot that kept me guessing how it would all come together. A clean read with a fun setting and great characters. Definitely worth checking out if you love cozy mysteries. 

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

The Serpent Slayer and the Scroll of Riddles by Champ Thornton and Andrew David Naselli, illustrated by Dana Thompson

Review:

Emmet and Nomi stumble upon an ancient artifact after being chased down by a bully, and find themselves experiencing the Bible in an exciting new way!

An exciting new book for middle grade readers that follows siblings Emmet and Nomi as they work their way through their quest, unlocking Biblical truths along the way. 

As a church librarian I am always on the hunt for new books for that middle-grade age group that express Scriptural truth and teach solid lessons of faith, while being adventurous and engaging, and I think that this book checks all the boxes. It is a well written read with well realized characters and a does an excellent job of pulling out main themes of the Bible in a way that younger readers can more easily understand. 

Overall, this is a fantastic book for middle grade readers. I loved how Nomi and Emmet grow throughout their adventures as they get to experience the Bible seeing the truths of Scripture come alive before their eyes, I also liked that this book doesn't take the expected angle with well known stories like Adam and Eve, the Exodus, David and Goliath, and the Resurrection, etc. but helps the reader understand what it might have been like to be living during those times the sorrow and excitement entering the stories in an unexpected place. Definitely recommend this wonderful read!

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