Building a Future by Amy Clipston // Review

My Review: 

Michelle has been dating Kory for over a year and it is getting harder to see all of her friends getting married and beginning their families. Kory seems distant and uninterested in taking the next step in their relationship, while his brother, Tyler, is a surprising source of friendship. 

An engaging Amish romance with likable characters, and sweet relationship building throughout. I liked how Tyler is a good listener, and he encourages Michelle in her hobbies. He is hardworking and a guy who is trying to do the right thing. Michelle is a kind young woman, she dreams of a husband and children. I liked that she kept trying to think the best of Kory and encourage her best friend.

Overall, a delightful read. Well written and engaging, with characters that you can root for to overcome their complicated situation. A satisfying and enjoyable read. 

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

Malicious Intent by Lynn H. Blackburn // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Dr. Ivy Collins is a successful engineer and now the CEO of an innovative prosthetics company, but when someone begins to try t undermine the work her company is doing she finds herself leaning on an old childhood friend. 

A fast paced read, with an engaging plot and riveting backstory. I loved how Gil and Ivy reconnected through all of this and how his friends were encouraging him to pursue her. I was quickly drawn into this book, with it's winsome characters and original plot. I liked how this book had strong themes of overcoming through faith and forgiveness. 

Overall, a page-turning read that I didn't want to put down. I have been loving this series so far, and can't wait to read the next one!

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

J. I. Packer : His Life and Thought by Alister McGrath // Review

My Review: 

A well written biography that explores the life and theology of evangelicalism's most influential Christians of the twentieth century. 

Familiar with a few of his works, mainly Knowing God, I embraced this opportunity to learn more about the man who has been and influential figure for so many years. This book tells of his early years and his calling to serve in theological academia, as well as takes the time to explore his more defining interpretations throughout his life. I think that I was surprised to learn that his passing was more recent than I had previously believed, and thought that tit was amazing how the author had been able to sit down and talk with him before his passing. 

There are probably more in depth books out there, but I think that this book's relatively shorter length and concise style is a strength. Hitting the highlights of his impact throughout his career, as well as his takes on a Biblically conservative view-respectful of tradition but willing to improve as well. 

A wonderful read, that left me feeling more educated about J. I. Packer's life and beliefs. 

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

The Call of the Wrens by Jenni L. Walsh // Review

My Review:

 

A tale of two courageous women serving their country as Wrens.

During the first World War Marion joins the Wrens transporting messenger pigeons on her motorbike, finding a hope and a freedom she's never known. 

Evelyn Fairchild has grown up with everything she has ever needed, except the freedom to prove herself beyond what others see as weakness. In the face of a second World War she joins the Wrens with the support of her childhood friend. 

An engaging story that tells the story of two very different women serving in different wars. I liked Marion and how Eddie found her and befriended her, sticking by her side through thick and thin. Eddie is a real gem, and I loved how he saw Marion when no one else did. Marion really finds her voice and a purpose as a Wren.

Evelyn's story was no less compelling, though from a very different background. I liked her determination and growing friendship with Percy. 

Overall, a compelling read with a dual time line read that does eventually converge, with well developed characters. The author does a great of richly bringing history to life in this gripping read. Great for fans of WWII fiction. 

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

Targeted by Lynette Eason, Lynn H. Blackburn, and Natalie Walters // Review

Lucie's Review:

On the Run by Lynette Eason 

Daria Nevsky is a highly skilled hacker who finds herself in danger when her father's secrets come back to haunt her. A fast paced read with familiar faces that I was happy to see return. Ryker is an amazing guy, quick thinking on his feet, ready to jump in and help. 

Deadly Objective Lynn H. Blackburn 

Emily Dixon is determined not to fall for someone who runs towards danger like her brother. But her job has her working along side Agent Liam Harper, and they must work together to protect their client before its too late. A fast paced read with great characters, and interaction. I liked how this book balanced the action and romance.

Caught in the Crosshairs by Natalie Walters

Claudia and Ari find themselves working against the clock to prevent a possible war with the Middle East, they must put aside their misgivings about each other for the great good. A fast paced read, filled with action and a great addition to this collection of fantastic novellas by top notch authors. I liked how the relationship developed and grew over the course of the book. 

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

Cold Case Killer Profile by Jessica R. Patch // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Brigitte, a forensic artist, finds herself the target of a renown serial killer, and as they dig deeper the case takes a personal turn. 

A fast paced read, full of suspense, and more intense subject matter than usual. I liked the interaction between Duke and Brigitte, as well as the strong faith. I really enjoyed Brigitte's friendship with Mrs. Kipling, and how she helped her by giving good advice and counsel. 

A gripping read that I didn't want to put down, there was a lot going on and more intense subject matter with a serial killer on the loose. Well written with great characters that I could cheer for throughout.  

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

Texas Cold Case Threat by Jessica R. Patch // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A cold case turns hot as new threats emerge and FBI analyst finds herself in the crosshairs of two killers, she must rely on her best friend to unravel the case before she becomes the next victim. 

An action packed read, that kept me guessing. I loved the relationship between Chelsey and Tack, they have known each other for years and have a strong background of trust between them, it was satisfying to see them give love a chance. I liked the strong bond between the two of them as well as their friendships with those that they worked with. 

This was a well paced, entertaining read, with great relationship building, and great dialogue. I liked the suspense, and the dual danger of the past and present colliding. 

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

Five and Dime Christmas by Cynthia Hickey, Patty Smith Hall, Susanne Dietze, and Christiana Lorenzen // Review

My Review: Four couples find love at Christmastime thanks to Woolworth's Five and Dime. 

A Merry Little Christmas by Susanne Dietze

Hattie Scott tasks on a second job working as a secretary for the man compiling a report that could put her family's livelihood at risk. 

An enjoyable Christmas romance, I loved how Hattie and Timothy bonded over their shared faith. Timothy is a kind and honorable man, I loved his heart for others, and how he was always offering to help others out. 

A Home for Christmas by Patty Smith Hall

Essie wants to do more with her life than exist for society, so she takes a job at the Five and Dime, where she meets a minister who has taken in 6 orphan boys. 

A heartwarming and sweet holiday read, I liked that Essie wanted to bless others with what she had been given. And Max is a wonderful man with a big heart. Such a cute story. 

The Light of Christmas by Christina Lorenzen

A charming workplace romance. 

Henry is determined to work his place up from the tool counter to the accounting offices of Woolworth's, while working the sales floor he meets Lizzie. Lizzie is working hard to keep her family home, can they overcome Henry's match making mother and their differing stations to find love? 

I liked how so much of the story occurred within the walls of the store, bringing to life the hustle and bustle of the store at Christmastime. Henry is a driven and goal-oriented man, I liked how meeting Lizzie helped him to see things differently and imagine a new future.

Lunch with Maggie by Cynthia Hickey

After being left at the altar, Maggie Larson isn't sure if she will love again. She befriends a young girl and her widower father while working at Woolworth's lunch counter. Will she change her mind about love?

A sweet romance of second chances and hope at Christmas time. I liked how Seth was understanding and patient with Maggie, plus his daughter was super cute!

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

The Lady's Mine by Francine Rivers // Review

My Review: 

A western romance, filled with clashes of culture and character, conflict and romance. 

Kathryn Walsh finds herself in a rough and tumble boom town, after inheriting a house and claim from her deceased uncle. A far cry from the Eastern society she is used to, but she is determined to make  it work. Upon her arrival she stirs the interest and ire of the predominantly male townsfolk with her scathingly honest opinions. 

An entertaining read filled with a full cast of colorful characters, I liked Kathryn's grit, as well as being able to admit when she was wrong. I liked her determination and her love for the town of Calvada.  I loved her friendships with Ronya and Scribe. 

Overall, this was a fun enemies to lovers western romance, lots of fun characters in a rough setting. Honestly this wasn't my favorite read from this author, I thought that Malachi was pretty high handed, and though he did change over the course of the book it was hard to overlook some of the things that he had done that crossed the line for me. I also felt that it lacked the strong Christian faith woven throughout that I have come to expect from this author from reading books from her in the past, the characters went to church and prayed, but it just wasn't up to the level I have read in the past from this author. I know this review sounds harsh, but I really did enjoy the book with its full cast of characters, humor, and chemistry charged banter. Great for fans of enemies to lovers romance and westerns. 

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

Detection Detail by Terri Reed // Review

Lucie's Review: 

All the clues point to Mia Turner, but Nelson Rivers wonders if it could all be a set up. 

A fast paced read with escalating stakes and suspense. I was quickly drawn into this book, as Nelson and Mia work together to clear her name. There was non-stop action and it kept me guessing throughout. 

Nelson and Mia are both likable heroes, and I liked that they bonded over their shared faith. There is a lot going on to keep them on their toes, making it a book that I didn't want to put down!

Overall, a fantastic read from beginning to end. Great start to a new series, with an engaging plotline and fantastic characters.  

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

Cold Case Double Cross by Jessica R. Patch // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Detective Cash Ryland suspects that his brother has been wrongfully imprisoned, the only person he can ask for help is Mae Vogel the woman he wronged when they were in high school. As they start digging into the cold case, threats are made, can they solve it before it's too late. 

I liked that Cash has come to faith, as well as how Mae's grandmother encourages her to forgive. I liked seeing their relationship grow and them come to trust each other over the course of the book. 

 A little harder to get into, Mae struggles to move past old-fashioned generalizations, and there is a lot that she wrestles with in her past. 

Overall, I'll admit that it just wasn't my favorite, as their was a lot of self talk and blaming others. There were things that I liked, but in the end it was mixed for me. 

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

Every Word Unsaid by Kimberly Duffy // Review

My Review: 

Augusta "Gussie" Travers is the most popular women's travel journalist, she escapes the expectations of convention to travel to India, where a whole new world is opened to her. Even the possibility of love. 

Gussie is a headstrong and independent heroine used to knowing what she wants and flouting conventional expectations. She goes to India to write about her experiences as well as to escape, reuniting with dear friends, and seeing a side of life she never imagined. This book does and excellent job of bringing to life the culture and caste divisions, as well as the clashing and melding of culture during the British occupation.

I liked how Gussie was challenged to think about what she really wanted, and how adventure and sense of fulfillment can come in unexpected ways. I loved her friendships with Catherine, Gabe, Pandita and Bimala. Gabe is a wonderful man, so supportive of her throughout and understanding of what she was going through. 

Overall, a wonderful book that does a terrific job of bringing to life the culture and realities of that time in India, as well as real life people like Pandita. And everyone needs an Uncle James in their life!

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

The Sisters of Sea View by Julie Klassen // Review

My Review:

A captivating read that transported me to the shores of Devonshire, as four sisters adjust to their reduced circumstances by opening their home to guests. 

A well written novel that does an excellent job of capturing the nuance of the time period, realistically bringing to life a full cast of unique and carefully crafted characters. The story follows the three eldest sisters as they navigate their new circumstances and responsibilities. Sarah is the eldest and takes her duty to the wellbeing of her family seriously, bearing the burdens even when her heart is on the line. Emily is charming and impulsive, while her twin Viola is more timid, but with a surprising courage. Violas was my favorite and claimed a special place in my heart, for how she overcame her fears by serving others. 

A wonderful start to a brand new series that left me wanting more and hoping for the return of some of the Summers' guests in the future. I loved how as the sisters got to know their guests and new friends, that they were not as the first appeared. This is a wonderful read for fans of Jane Austen, with many compelling storylines throughout. I can't wait to return to Devonshire and the wonderful people there.

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

The Barrister and the Letter of Marque by Todd M. Johnson // Review

My Review: 

Barrister William Snopes finds himself up against insurmountable odds with an innocent man's life at stake.

A riveting read, filled with intrigue and surprising twists along the way. I loved the classic feel of the novel that evoked the style of the British detectives like Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie. Snopes is a sharp man, clever, fair, as well as compassionate. I admired how he was willing to put it all on the line right a wrong and save a life. 

I'm not sure if there will be more books in the future with these characters, but I think that it was definitely set up in a way that it could standalone or continue. I liked Madeline her grit and determination to save her family's estate. 

A riveting read, suspenseful with multiple twists and turns along the way. Engaging and especially perfect anglophiles or lovers of a good mystery!

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

Christmas Crime Cover-Up by Dana Mentink // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Christmas Crime Cover-Up

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre:Inspy Suspense

Release date: November 29, 2022

From USA TODAY bestselling author Dana Mentink…

A violent attack

Isn’t the homecoming she expected.

When an ATV tries to run her down in Death Valley, animal rescuer Nora Duke knows it’s a sign she never should have returned. Now she’s stuck on Seth Castillo’s ranch until Christmas with a pregnant donkey—and a criminal desperate to silence her. Facing her past is as terrifying as uncovering a killer’s twisted plan. But can Seth convince her to stay…if they live through the holidays?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Desert Justice

Book 1: Framed in Death Valley
Book 2: Missing in the Desert
Book 3: Death Valley Double Cross
Book 4: Death Valley Hideout
Book 5: Christmas Crime Cover-Up
Book 6: Targeted in the Desert

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A fast paced adventure that kept me guessing, with each twist and turn!

 Nora comes home for what is supposed to be a quick trip to pick up a donkey, but when she finds herself the target of a killer she takes refuge on Seth Castillo's ranch as they work to get to the bottom of the threats. 

A well written read, and especially satisfying if you have read the others in the series to have a book about Seth after all he has been through. This book would also be enjoyable as a standalone. Seth is an amazing man, I admired his faith and perseverance to keep going after everything that has happened to him. 

Riveting read with compelling characters, relationship building and friendships. A thrilling read, with twists that made it hard to put down. I loved revisiting the Duke family and hope that there are more stories in store for this family!

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

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author as well as a two-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, and the recipient of a Holt Medallion. She’s written over fifty titles in the suspense, lighthearted romance and mystery genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Poisoned Pen Press. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.) Her monthly newsletter features plenty of goodies, gab and giveaways. https://www.subscribepage.com/b8q0y5

 

More from Dana

Well here we go! Book five in the Desert Justice series features Nora (Chief Jude’s estranged sister), a wild donkey who needs rescuing, and a crime from the past that intrudes into the present. Twisty, right? I was inspired to write this story after visiting Death Valley and learning about the feral donkeys which inhabit the region. They’re cute, visitors love them, but the burros can encounter health problems and cause environmental damage if they aren’t settled into a safe area. It’s amazing to me that wild donkeys are adept at detecting underground water sources. They dig “wells” which can benefit many thirsty animals. Fascinating, right? Hope you’ll enjoy meeting Bubbles the donkey and the helpful humans who rescue her in this novel. God bless and thanks for reading!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 3

deb’s Book Review, December 3

Through the Fire Blogs, December 3

Texas Book-aholic, December 4

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, December 4

Betti Mace, December 5

Genesis 5020, December 5

Bizwings Blog, December 6

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 6

Bigreadersite, December 7

Inklings and notions, December 7

Daysong Reflections, December 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 9

Empowermoms, December 9

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 10

Pause for Tales, December 10

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 11

For Him and My Family, December 11

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 12

Holly’s Book Corner, December 12

Blogging With Carol, December 13

Vicky Sluiter, December 13

For the Love of Literature, December 14

Lily’s Book Reviews, December 14

Cover Lover Book Review, December 15

Simple Harvest Reads, December 15 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Blossoms and Blessings, December 16

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 16

Labor Not in Vain, December 16

Giveaway

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

(If the winner is outside the U.S., then he or she will receive an eBook.)

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/22ec8/christmas-crime-cover-up-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Woodcarver's Snow-kissed Christmas by Izzy James // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A sweet holiday romance, of second chances and perseverance. 

Reed Archer returns to his hometown a changed man after the death of his father, to take up the family mantle. 

Ann Wright is content to use her talents to bless others, she is unconcerned about marriage despite her mother's matchmaking plans. 

An enjoyable Christmas read, with likable characters and a sweet storyline. I liked how Reed has come a long way from the man he was before, and talked openly about his faith. I liked that he didn't give up and was persistent. 

A wonderful Christmas romance, filled with faith and second chances. 

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

The Desolate Reign by Amory Cannon // Review

Review:

A riveting sequel that picks up in the aftermath of the previous book.

Emilia is on the run, and claiming her throne seems like a good solution with her life on the line. In Borealis, Emilia must face a new set of political intrigues and matchmaking games, as her heart is torn between duty and love.

A fitting sequel, that brings up more questions than it answers in preparation for the coming conclusion. I like that Emilia is a flawed heroine, and we get to see more of her vulnerabilities. Felix is definitely my favorite character, but still mysterious as ever though I have my theories. I liked that this book added to the mystery, with great build up for the next installment. 

Overall, a solid sequel, riveting and hard to put down with the mounting tension between the characters as the stakes rise. This book added more components and factors to the mix, and it will be interesting to see how it all plays out in the conclusion. Perfect series for fans of romance, intrigue, with elements of a fantasy without magic!

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

The Holly and the Ivy by Sarah M. Eden, Esther Hatch, Dana LeCheminant, and Anneka R. Walker // Review

Lucie's Review:

A heartwarming collection of Christmastime romances. 

The Holly and the Ivy by Sarah M. Eden

After the death of her young charge's father, Christmas is a sad affair, but a kind couple invite both Nurse Robbie and the young duke to spend a holiday with them. 

A heartwarming read, that brought a smile to my face. I loved how Lord and Lady Jonquil opened their home and hearts. An enjoyable read from beginning to end. 

Hiding Christmas by Esther Hatch

Kristine and her grandmother celebrate Christmas, which is frowned upon in Scotland. A misunderstanding leads to a chance at love. 

A humorous situation in this charming Christmastime story brings two unlikely people together. Enjoyable and sweet, I loved Kristine's grandmother!

A Twist of Christmas by Dana LeCheminant

Swapping places for the holidays, two brothers, and a lady and her maid step out of their comfort zones and get a chance at love. 

A charming read, with delightful twists and wonderful characters. A highly enjoyable romance!

A Season to Love by Anneka R. Walker 

A woman's prayer for a husband is answered for Christmas. 

A sweet romance, with good interaction as they get to know each other. A charming romance. 

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

Beneath His Silence by Hannah Linder // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Beneath His Silence

Author: Hannah Linder

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Release date: November, 2022

Will Seeking Justice Lead to Her Own Demise?

A Gothic-Style Regency Romance from a Promising Young Author

Second daughter of a baron—and a little on the mischievous side—Ella Pemberton is no governess. But the pretense is a necessity if she ever wishes to get inside of Wyckhorn Manor and attain the truth. Exposing the man who killed her sister is all that matters.

Lord Sedgewick knows there’s blood on his hands. Lies have been conceived, then more lies, but the price of truth would be too great. All he has left now is his son—and his hatred. Yet as the charming governess invades his home, his safe cocoon of bitterness begins to tear away.

Could Ella, despite the lingering questions of his guilt, fall in love with such a man? Or is she falling prey to him—just as her dead sister?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A riveting gothic suspense, that builds as the story develops and secrets are revealed. 

Ella Pemberton is determined to discover the truth behind her sister's untimely death, so she takes on the job of governess at Wyckhorn Manor. 

A little slow to start, but it picked up quickly as I got to know the characters and became engrossed in the plot, and it became hard to put down. I liked how Ella and Henry's presupposition are challenged, and how Henry shares how faith has gotten him through. Young Peter is a charming little boy, very sweet, but active. 

Overall, this was a very well done read, great character development, strong themes of faith, and great reveals as well as gripping suspense. Wonderful for fans of gothic regency romance! 

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

About the Author

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Hannah is a Graphic Design Associates Degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and International bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and a self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, and ukulele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com.

 

More from Hannah

People always ask me what inspired a story. Where did I get the idea? Who was my inspiration? What true-life event motivated these characters into existence?

 

And the truth is, I don’t know. I’ve never known. When I was younger, I’d look clueless and shrug my shoulders. A few years ago, I would have probably answered “people”—and maybe there’s truth in that. People do inspire me. The way they walk, the places they go, the things they do, the way they dress.

 

But lately…well, I think it’s more than that. I don’t think it’s people so much as feelings. The nitty-gritty. The raw emotions, caught deep in someone’s chest, at the most pivotal points in their life.

 

Like the old man seated at a booth, alone in a restaurant, with his veiny hands cupping a mug of coffee. It’s not his shabby fedora that inspires me. Or the knotty cane leaned against his seat. Or the envelope stuffed into the pocket of his woolen overcoat.

 

It’s the look on his face. The slow blinking, the red nose, the flash of moisture as he takes another sip of coffee. Why does he sit alone? Who left him? Who caused the tears? What emotions render that lost, helpless, longing expression—and how will he cope?

 

If you would ask me what inspired Beneath His Silence, I probably wouldn’t have much of an answer. No concrete idea or moment would rush to remembrance. If anything, inspiration for Beneath His Silence was nothing more than a small thought. A feeling.

 

I wanted to write about a girl who learned to love someone she hated. I wanted to explore every aspect. The poison of her hate. The weight it pressed into her heart. The process—slow, startling, and healing—that sucked out that poison and replaced it with something unexpected. Love.

 

I guess that’s what I love about writing. Not the people. The characters. Not even the storylines and the plot twists and the fun settings.

 

I love the emotion. That’s what inspires me.

 

And if you find yourself in the pages of Beneath His Silence, I hope it will inspire you too.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 28

Genesis 5020, November 28

Texas Book-aholic, November 29

To Everything There Is A Season, November 29

Where Faith And Books Meet, November 30

Inklings and notions, November 30

Lily’s Book Reviews, November 30

Book Looks by Lisa, December 1

deb’s Book Review, December 1

Betti Mace, December 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 2

Remembrancy, December 3

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 3

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, December 4

Connie’s History Classroom, December 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 5

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 5

Rebecca Tews, December 6

Simple Harvest Reads, December 6 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Blogging With Carol, December 7

For Him and My Family, December 7

Through the Fire Blogs, December 8

Holly’s Book Corner, December 8

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, December 9 (Author Interview)

Bizwings Blog, December 9

Melissa’s Bookshelf, December 9

Pause for Tales, December 10

Cover Lover Book Review, December 10

Mary Hake, December 10

Labor Not in Vain, December 11

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 11

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Hannah is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a print 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/22ccf/beneath-his-silence-celebration-tour-giveaway

Passages of Hope by Terri J. Haynes // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Passages of Hope

Author: Terri J. Haynes

Genre: Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance

Release date: November, 2022

Discover the Story Behind a Secret Passageway

Walk through Doors to the Past via a new series of historical stories of romance and adventure.

Gracie Kingston begins renovations on the Philadelphia house inherited from her grandmother and finds a secret room. It is connected to a house nearby, the home of William Still, the man known as the father of the Underground Railroad. As she researches, she discovers a mystery in her house’s ownership. In 1855, Olivia Kingston helps a mother and her young child by hiding them in a secret room in her home. As she helps, she learns that there may be an impostor conductor in their community. As Gracie’s and Olivia’s stories intertwine, they learn the meaning of sacrifice and love.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Gracie Kingston inherits a historical home from her grandmother, while working to make her dreams of owning a yarn shop a reality she stumbles upon a secret room. 

An entertaining dual timeline read, I liked learning more about the underground railroad, as Gracie works on her shop and Olivia carries out her dangerous work. Clarence is such a kind and understanding man, and I liked seeing him and Gracie together. 

A clean read with a lot of moving pieces, at times it was sadder and hard to read, as things are tough for Gracie and frankly quite depressing. Though there were threads of hope offering light. 

Overall, a compelling story that made me appreciate the sacrifices that many on the underground railroad made for others. 

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

About the Author

Terri J. Haynes, a native Baltimorean, is a homeschool mom, writer, prolific knitter, freelance graphic artist and former Army wife (left the Army, not the husband). She loves to read, so much that when she was in elementary school, she masterminded a plan to be locked in a public library armed with only a flashlight to read all the books and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. As she grew, her love for writing grew as she tried her hand at poetry, articles, speeches and fiction. She is storyteller at heart. Her passion is to draw readers in the story world she has created and to bring laughter and joy to their lives.

Terri is a 2010 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis contest finalist, and a 2012 semi-finalist. She is also a 2013 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Quarterfinalist. Her publishing credits include: Cup of Comfort for Military Families, Crosswalk.com, the Secret Place Devotional, Urbanfaith.com, Vista Devotional, and Publisher’s Weekly.
Terri holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology, a Master’s degree in Theological Studies and a certificate in creative writing and graphic design, meeting the minimal requirements of being a geek. She and her husband pastor a church where she serves as executive pastor and worship leader. Terri lives in Maryland with her three wonderful children and her husband, who often beg her not to kill off their favorite characters.
Website: www.terrijhaynes.com
Blog: www.inotherwords.terrijhaynes.com

 

More from Terri

Family, Underground Railroad, two strong Black women, and knitting in one book? Yes.

 

As an author, I explore my world with curiosity. I find many subjects interesting and it shows in this book. It’s not often that an author can combine such a range of topics in one novel. I’m so glad I got to do it for this one.

 

In addition to being an author, I am a knitter, crocheter, indie yarn dyer, business owner, unofficial historian, wife, mother, and sister. At first glance, all those things seem too different to combine in one book. But they weave together so perfectly.

 

Life is a tapestry of many colors knit together and my goal was to show that. That family and history, grieving and crafting, struggle and triumph, are all entwined threads. Their vibrancy can be combined to create a beautiful project, the pain and joy both add hue and color to life. This is what I hope you find in this book.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 29

lakesidelivingsite, November 30

Texas Book-aholic, November 30

Cover Lover Book Review, December 1

Inklings and notions, December 1

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, December 2 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, December 2

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 3

For the Love of Literature, December 4

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 4

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 5

Connie’s History Classroom, December 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 6

Holly’s Book Corner, December 6

Blossoms and Blessings, December 7

Mary Hake, December 7

Remembrancy, December 8

For Him and My Family, December 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, December 9

Lis Loves Reading, December 9

Through the fire blogs, December 10

Spoken from the Heart, December 10

Pause for Tales, December 11

Labor Not in Vain, December 11

Betti Mace, December 12

Marriage, Motherhood, & Homeschool, December 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Terri is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a print 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/22cd0/passages-of-hope-celebration-tour-giveaway